Are your recovering from injuries or surgery and want a non-impact gym workout? Then the hybrid elliptical might just be what you need. This machine is a cross between the elliptical machine and the gym bike. It comes with plenty of features that you will find very good for your cardiovascular health and general body workout. In this review, we will consider four of the best hybrid elliptical on the market right now.
In choosing these four models, we considered some important features. These include functions, stride length, resistance levels, weight capacity, LCD display, dimensions, weight, and warranty. In the buyer’s guide of the review we will consider each of these features and see why they are so important. In the meantime, let us review four of the best hybrid elliptical machines on the market.
Extra features: 3 seat recline settings, 8 position grips adjustability, smart device stand, water bottle holder, TeeterMoveTM App with free training
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 is an excellent model and is one of the lowest priced options from the manufacturer. Despite the low price, though, this is one of the most highly recommended models on the market.
While it doesn’t have the fancy features of some of the more expensive options on the market, it has all of the main features that you would need in your hybrid elliptical. For one, you get one of the best elliptical training regimes that you can ever find.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 lets you target the parts of the body that you want. You can isolate muscle groups and exercise almost all parts of the body.
The machine is powered by battery. The advantage of this is that you can use it wherever you go without looking for a power source. With a carrying capacity of up to 300 pounds, this is one of the most durable options on this roundup. The compact size also makes it a good choice for users that have small spaces.
What we liked: This model is an excellent option with a compact, durable design that will last for a long time. It lets you exercise all parts of the body and comes at a great price as well.
What could be better: The Teeter FreeStep LT1 is great, however, it doesn’t come with some of the bells and whistles found in other hybrid elliptical machines.
Extra features: 3 different sets of integrated handlebars, advanced flywheel system
This is the budget option on this list, however, do not be fooled by that. This remains one of the best in its class. Part of the appeal of the Body Power 3-in-1 is the unique design that combines the benefits of three trainers. You can use the Body Power 3-in-1 as an upright bike, a recumbent bike, and an elliptical trainer.
With this machine, you certainly can get the body of your dreams without having to spend money on multiple equipment for targeting specific body parts.
It has up to 17 preset programs, so you also do not have to spend money on hiring a trainer. The LCD display, heart rate monitor, and other controls are some of the best features of this model. It is available in a compact form as well so you can place it in a small space without any hassle.
What we liked: This budget model comes with a unique design that combines the benefits of three trainers. It is compact, easy to set up, and very durable.
What could be better: The grip is poor so you might have to buy a mat to prevent sliding
Extra features: 30-day iFit trial membership, 12.4 lbs flywheel
But for the relatively higher price, this would have been our number pick. Nevertheless, it is still a budget-friendly hybrid elliptical that offers plenty of useful features. It is a reliable model that will help you to get the best cardiovascular health.
It offers you plenty of useful features that make for one of the best models on the market. For example, the machine has up to 16 workout apps and even heart monitoring. Therefore, it keeps you interested in working out. With the number of features on this machine, you can get the workout that you want and modify the machine to fit the body group that you want to work on.
It is available in a simple package and can be set up in less than an hour. Installation is straightforward as all you need is already provided in the guide.
It also offers you a large LCD display that shows data ranging from your pulse to the time and speed.
Just like our top pick, this is a sturdy model. It can carry weights of up to 350 pounds and does not need to be plugged into electricity to be used.
What we liked: This model offers excellent for value. It is budget-friendly and comes with up to 16 levels of resistance. It also offers you access to different workout programs and keeps you interested in working out.
What could be better: The only downside here is that some have complained about the relatively short stride length.
Extra features: 17 workout programs, weighted flywheel, adjustable arms, built-in contact heart rate within the seat
Last but not least is the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT-300. It is a trainer that gives you a total cardio workout. It is compact, affordable, and surprisingly versatile. If you are looking for a semi-elliptical machine, then this is your best bet.
The machine is designed for home use. It features a large LCD display that shows all the important information required for a good workout.
The design includes a low entry seat and a step through design. You will also discover that there are handles that are designed to eliminate strain on your shoulders.
With a lifetime warranty, this is the best warranty on our roundup.
What we liked: This is a reliable, easy to use hybrid elliptical. It comes with a weight capacity of 330 pounds and boasts of a lovely design to help you get the best from your workout.
What could be better: It is not a compact option. Therefore you will find storage difficult.
In the section above, we reviewed four of the best hybrid elliptical machines on the market. These four options that we have considered will help you to narrow down your choices, which in turn will make it much easier for you to find the best models that will fit your requirements. In this section, we will consider all the information that you need about these machines. We will also consider the features to consider before you make a buying choice. With that in mind, let us start by answering the question: What is a hybrid elliptical?
Before we delve into what features to consider, let us see what this machine is and the benefits it gives.
The hybrid elliptical is a very useful piece of equipment that manages to combine two popular cardio training equipment – the elliptical trainer and the gym bike.
By combining these two equipment into one, you get to enjoy the benefits of both forms of exercise at once. You will have more freedom during your session and your exercise will give you better results.
What do you get from using this machine? Well, le t is see.
The first advantage of having this is the non-impact nature. Therefore, if you are someone that suffers from joint pain, you will enjoy using this machine. Running and jogging are impact exercises that are high impact. However, with this trainer, you can enjoy all the benefits or running and jogging without any of the drawbacks from impact.
Another advantage of using this trainer is that it helps you to achieve impressive lower body strength. The equipment (bike and elliptical trainer) add a good amount of strength to the body, and by combining this in one equipment, you certainly get the advantages of both.
The machine is adjustable, which means that you can increase the resistance. The result is more work and better strength in your hamstrings, glutes and related body parts.
This machine comes with the elliptical and bike. You can decide to ride while standing or pedal forward depending on what you want to work on.
Apart from helping with the lower body strength, this machine also helps with strengthening your upper body. The bike part of the machine might not be great at upper body strengthening, but the elliptical part will certainly help with that. If you are doing different types of exercise and want to ensure that your upper body isn’t left out, then this is the right option for you.
Are you looking to dispose of calories? Then this hybrid elliptical machine is just right for you. The elliptical part offers you plenty of work that will burn as much calories as you can imagine.
It is super effective at this because it ensures that all parts of the body are involved in the workout. Oher machines that are listed as cardio machines often only work on the lower body, but that is not the case with this option.
As this offers a full-body workout, you will have the whole body working and have your heart rate even higher.
This machine focuses on cardio more than any other thing, therefore, when you use it consistently, you certainly should discover that you have better cardio benefits. And you certainly know the benefits of great cardio on your health.
If you are looking to have a great time while exercising, then this fun machine is just right for you. It offers you the option to use the bike and the elliptical parts. Thus you will likely find it far more enjoyable to use.
As with all gym equipment, the elliptical hybrid comes with some drawbacks. However, these drawbacks aren’t really serious or numerous.
The main drawback with using this machine is that you don’t get plenty of gains strength-wise, at least when compared to other forms of exercise. This isn’t a big deal though, because it applies to all equipment for cardio.
Another issue that some have with the equipment is that it is not friendly for those that suffer from knee pain. Frequent use of the hybrid elliptical might even make the issue worse.
This machine is excellent for most folks. It helps to improve fitness and is a good option for those that seek to boost athletic performance.
If you are recovering from injuries, the non-impact nature of this machine will certainly help you to recuperate quicker and safer.
It is a very versatile machine that anyone can use without hassle.
If your knee issues are sever, then you certainly should not use this trainer. If you are looking to run too, you might be better off getting a treadmill.
Overall, though, it is an excellent machine for everyone.
Now that we have considered whether this machine is right for you or not, this next section will provide all the important information that you need to make a buying choice.
Hybrid elliptical machines, just like other gym equipment come in a variety of models from different manufacturers. Therefore, there are different functions and features unique to each model.
Some of the features that you will find on these machines include a heart rate monitor, ribbed pedals, different handlebars designs, media player holders, types of resistance, and much more.
Note that we indicated that there are more functions. You might even know of some features that we have not mentioned. With the sheer number of features and functions, it might be hard choosing the model for you.
Therefore, before you make a buying choice or even head over to consider the options to buy, we recommend that you consider the features that you absolutely need. Narrow down the functions and look for models that come with the functions that you desire. This way, you will not be confused when bombarded with the numerous options on the market.
There are certain features that you simply cannot negotiate with when choosing a machine. The stride length is one such feature. Before you choose a model, consider the stride length of the machine. Different hybrid elliptical machines come with a variety of stride lengths.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer, for example, comes with a 15” stride length while others like the Body Power 3-in-1, and Teeter FreeStep LT1, offer 13” stride length.
When choosing the best hybrid elliptical, you should consider the number of resistance levels. The more resistance levels offered by the machine, the more versatility and workout-range that you will have. The options that we have reviewed above come with a wide range of resistance levels.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 and Body Power 3-in-1 offer just 8 resistance levels while the ProForm Hybrid Trainer and HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT-300 offer higher resistance levels of up to 16.
Apart from the weight of the equipment, it is important that you consider just how much the machine can take without damage. This involves checking out the manufacturers specifications. Compare that with the weight of those that will be using the machine and buy appropriately.
It is recommended that you buy a machine with a higher weight capacity than your actual weight.
Convenience is one of the factors that you should consider when making a purchase. This involves considering the features and functions of the model. An LCD screen is a very handy source of information that can help you get the best from your workout session. As you buy your machine, consider the range of information offered by the LCD screen.
All of the models that we reviewed in this article come with LCD displays.
When choosing the model to buy, you should focus on machines that are lightweight and portable. However, you might decide for something bigger and heavier.
The amount of space that you have available is a large factor that determines the dimensions that you choose. When choosing, though, it is important to note that the length of the machine is more important than the width.
It is also a good idea to choose a lightweight model. This will make it easier for you to move it on your own.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer is the biggest option that we have reviewed.
As with other equipment in the gym, it is possible for the elliptical hybrid machine to break down or require some repair. When this happens, you certainly would be glad to have a good warranty. Look for machines that have lengthy warranties. That way, it would be easier for you to repair or even replace the machine at minimal cost.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer and HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT-300 offer the best warranty out of the models we have reviewed.
You certainly want to look for an option within your budget. As with every other product on the market, hybrid elliptical machines are available at a wide variety of prices. The Body Power 3-in-1 is our budget pick.
The top pick is the Teeter FreeStep LT1. It is an excellent option with a compact, durable design that will last for a long time. It lets you exercise all parts of the body and comes at a great price as well. If you want a cheap option, then the Body Power 3-in-1 is right for you. This budget model comes with a unique design that combines the benefits of three trainers. It is compact, easy to set up, and very durable. Choose these and the other option we considered and rest assured that you have the best hybrid elliptical machine on the market.
