The Best Workout Machines for Weight Loss in 2024
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Having exercise equipment you can use at home makes it more convenient to get your workouts in on your schedule. Choosing the best exercise equipment for weight loss workouts involves considering the type of exercise you enjoy doing, your fitness goals, fitness level, budget and available space in your home gym. In this guide, we provide our picks for the best workout machines for weight loss and important factors to consider when buying an exercise machine to help you lose weight.
If you have underlying concerns like body dysmorphia, disordered eating or an eating disorder, please consult your doctor before beginning a weight loss or exercise program. Therapy or a more psychological approach to weight management may be needed.
Our Picks for the Best Workout Machines for Weight Loss:
- Best Overall Workout Machine for Weight Loss: Tonal
- Best Rower Workout Machine for Weight Loss: Aviron Strong Series Rower
- Best Treadmill Workout Machine for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness F85 Treadmill
- Best Vertical Climber Workout Machine for Weight Loss: CLMBR
- Best Foldable Treadmill Workout Machine for Weight Loss: WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run 2IN1 Foldable Treadmill
- Best Functional Trainer Workout Machine for Weight Loss: REP Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
- Best Stationary Bike Workout Machine for Weight Loss: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
- Best Elliptical Workout Machine for Weight Loss: ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical Trainer
Best Overall Workout Machine for Weight Loss: Tonal
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Smart home gym training system
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: N/A
- Machine weight: 150 pounds
- Dimensions: 21.5 inches wide (side to side) x 5.25 inches deep (front to back) x 50.9 inches tall
- Display: Yes; 24-inch touchscreen
- Assembly required? Free delivery and assembly provided by Tonal
- Price: $3,995 for the machine plus a monthly membership of $59.95/month
- Warranty: Three year warranty
Tonal is a wall-mounted, full-body resistance training workout machine. Your primary workout is done with two adjustable arms that be moved up and down and angled in different directions for various pushing and pulling exercises. The grips on the adjustable arms can also be swapped out for different attachments, such as a pulldown bar, rope or one of two different handles to increase the versatility of the machine. Tonal uses magnetic resistance rather than physical weight, with a max resistance of 200 pounds when both arms are used simultaneously or 100 pounds per arm.
Related Post: The Best Resistance Bands for Your Home Workout
There is a large touchscreen display in the center of the machine where you can stream workout classes. You can choose workouts targeted toward a variety of different fitness goals, primary muscle groups and fitness levels. Because there are workout classes that provide guidance on proper exercise form and technique, Tonal is one of the best exercise machines currently available for beginners and intermediate lifters who need additional instructions. That being said, you will need to have Wi-Fi and pay for the subscription to stream the guided Tonal workouts.
Pros:
- All-in-one trainer with lots of versatility in the exercises you can do for full body workouts
- Wall-mounted unit does not take up floor space, looks sleek
- Interactive guided workouts are great for motivation and instructions are helpful, especially for beginners
Cons:
- Expensive base price plus it requires an ongoing subscription fee
- 200 pound maximum lifting capacity may not be enough for those of higher fitness levels
Best Rower Workout Machine for Weight Loss: Aviron Strong Series Rower
Aviron
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Smart indoor rowing machine
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 507 pounds
- Machine weight: 114 pounds
- Dimensions: 84 inches long x 27 inches wide x 48 inches tall when in use; stores upright to reduce the footprint to 35 inches long x 27 inches wide x 83 inches tall
- Display: Yes; 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen
- Assembly required? Yes, all tools and instructions are provided and assembly takes about 45 minutes
- Price: $2,299 plus monthly membership of $25/month for the subscription with an annual contract or $29/month on a month-to-month basis
- Warranty: 10-year warranty on the frame, and one-year warranty on parts. Additional warranty available for purchase
Rowing provides a great full-body cardio and resistance training workout in one, making it one of the best forms of exercise for weight loss. Plus, rowing is low impact, so if you have joint problems, which can make a high impact activity like running uncomfortable, rowing can be a safer alternative. The Aviron Strong Series Rower is our top pick for the best rowing machine for weight loss. From a design perspective, the machine is not only sleek looking, but also perfect for home gyms because it folds up to reduce the footprint of the unit when not in use. This makes it great if you’re limited on floor space and want a machine you can easily stow to free up some room. The Aviron Strong Series Rower has a large, 22 inch HD rotating touchscreen which can be used to stream rowing workouts, other exercise classes or media of your choice such as your favorite shows on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu.
The rower itself is well-built, featuring a steel and aluminum frame designed to support a maximum user weight of just over 500 pounds with an elevated seat makes that it easier to get on and off the rowing machine compared with many rowing machines out there. Plus, you can adjust the width of the foot placement so that if you have larger hips or a wider stance in general, you can optimize the machine setup to make it comfortable for you. These factors make the Aviron Strong Series Rower more accessible to those who have mobility challenges. User reviews note that the rowing stroke is smooth and quiet.
Unique to this rowing machine, the combination of air or wind resistance and magnetic resistance together helps provide not only a smooth and realistic feel (like being on the water), but the added magnetic resistance allows you to incorporate more of a strength training element into your rowing workout, which can help you build lean muscle mass to support weight loss in this full-body workout.
Pros:
- High maximum user weight capacity
- Folds upright to save space
- Subscription gives you access to guided workouts, game-based workouts and the ability to stream your favorite media
- Dual forms of resistance allows you to get a cardio and strength training workout in one
Cons:
- Requires a strong internet connection to stream workout classes without interruption or lags
Best Treadmill Workout Machine for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness F85 Treadmill
Sole Fitness
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Treadmill
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
- Machine weight: 308 pounds
- Dimensions: 82 inches long, 37 inches wide and 66 inches tall when in use; folds upright to reduce the footprint to 44 inches long, 37 inches wide and 71 inches tall
- Display: Yes; 10.1-inch touchscreen
- Assembly required? Yes, but you can opt to have the treadmill assembled for you at an extra cost
- Price: $1,999 plus optional studio membership subscription of $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty on frame, motor and running deck; five-year warranty on electronics and parts and two-year labor warranty with the option to extend the warranty by five years at the point of sale
The Sole Fitness F85 Treadmill offers impressive performance features and specs, high user ratings and quality construction. If you want a workout machine to help you lose weight that you can use on a daily basis and that’ll last through even the toughest workouts, the Sole Fitness F85 Treadmill is a solid choice. Unlike even some of the top rated treadmills, it features a 4.0 HP motor, which is on par or even higher than many commercial-grade treadmills found in the gym. To help you gauge the intensity of your workouts and your calories burned, the treadmill comes with a chest strap heart rate monitor and built-in pulse grips on the handle bars.
The sturdy frame and commercial-grade motor give this treadmill a maximum user weight capacity of 400 pounds, which is higher than most home treadmills at the same price point. Moreover, the frame, motor and running deck are all backed by a lifetime warranty.
The running surface is roomy, with a belt width of 22 inches in length of 60 inches—on par with commercial gym treadmills rather than your standard compact home treadmill. This treadmill has a maximum running speed of 12 mph and offers an automatic incline up to 15 percent. There is a tablet holder and USB port, plus a built-in 10.1-inch touchscreen display that includes seven preset apps, like YouTube and Netflix, and allows for screen mirroring, so you can stream your favorite shows and playlists. The touchscreen also connects to the New Sole+ app, which allows you to create customized programs, save your workouts and access standard workout programs.
Pros:
- Powerful commercial-grade motor and high user weight capacity
- Excellent warranty
- Comes with a heart rate monitor
- Large, cushioned running deck
- Built-in touchscreen tablet can be used to stream media of your choice
Cons:
- Treadmill is large and takes up a lot of space, even when folded
Best Vertical Climber Workout Machine for Weight Loss: CLMBR
CLMBR
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Vertical climber cardio machine
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
- Machine weight: 180 pounds
- Dimensions: 35 inches wide x 32 inches deep x 88 inches high. Requires ceiling height of eight feet
- Display: 10.5-inch touchscreen display on Base CLMBR or 21.5-inch touchscreen display on CLMBR Connected 02 Plus upgrade
- Assembly required? Free delivery and assembly provided
- Price: CLMBR Connected 02 Base is $2,600; CLMBR Connected 02 Plus is $3,000. Connected membership is $40/month for premium subscription and $10/month for metrics only. Base bundle comes with free 30-day premium subscription and Plus bundle includes 12 months of premium membership
- Warranty: One-year warranty
The CLMBR Machine, also called the CLMBR Connected 02, or the CLMBR02, is a vertical climbing cardio machine designed to be used for high-intensity interval training workouts to maximize fat loss by burning more calories in a short amount of time. It features a robust frame with dual upright movable handles and foot pedals. A console displays your workout metrics and can be used to stream instructor-led classes (with a paid subscription). You can use the CLMBR in the free climbing mode without a subscription or opt for a paid membership to access guided workouts.
The movement pattern is like a stair climber or stepper machine but even more vertical, allowing for a very compact footprint. Although it can be challenging for beginners who are just getting started on their weight loss journey, you can modify the intensity based on the pace you climb and the resistance level you choose. Plus, there are shorter guided workouts for beginners as well as more advanced workouts for users with performance-related fitness goals. Additional CLMBR features include a water bottle holder, transportation wheels, textured pedals, Bluetooth connectivity for heart rate monitoring and a device rack to hold your phone or tablet.
Pros:
- Movement pattern provides a high-intensity, full body low-impact workout or you can choose to work just your lower body
- Workout subscription platform offers more than 500 exercise classes with motivating instructors
- Adjustable handles allow for a wide range of user heights (five to seven feet tall) to get the right fit and there are three different grip options for added customization
- Compact footprint compared to an elliptical trainer or treadmill
- Free delivery and assembly
Cons:
- Requires a ceiling height of at least eight feet to use
- Premium membership subscription costs $40 per month
Best Foldable Treadmill Workout Machine for Weight Loss: WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run 2IN1 Foldable Treadmill
WalkingPad
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Budget-friendly foldable treadmill
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 240 pounds
- Machine weight: 80 pounds
- Dimensions: 57.1 inches long (front to back) x 28.3 inches wide (side to side) x 40.6 inches tall when in use and folds upright to reduce the footprint to 39.4 inches long x 28.3 inches wide x 6.3 inches thick
- Display: No
- Assembly required? No
- Price: $899
- Warranty: One-year warranty
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, space-saving treadmill for hitting your step goals, the WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run 2IN1 Foldable Treadmill offers a moderately-priced treadmill option that prioritizes space and convenience over top-of-the line performance specs as seen on some higher-end models. The WalkingPad features a compact, foldable design and can be stored upright to make it easier to use at home as a regular workout treadmill or a walking desk. You can simply fold it down and store it away when you’re done using it.
This two-in-one treadmill features a walking mode and running mode. In the walking mode, the treadmill will hit a max speed of 3.7 mph. In the running mode, you can run up to 6.2 mph. This WalkingPad does not have any type of incline or an integrated touchscreen display—at its core, it’s a basic model that’ll get your body moving and heart rate up. There is, however, a device holder in the handle bar so that you can put your own phone or tablet onto the unit while you use it and play music, stream shows or track your workout using a free app that will display your workout metrics in real time. One important thing to note is that the maximum user weight is only 240 pounds, so this treadmill is not particularly robust and may not be able to support heavier users.
Pros:
- Compact footprint and lightweight design
- Can be used as an under desk treadmill
- Beginner friendly
- No ongoing subscription fees
Cons:
- No incline
- Short warranty
- Lower max user weight than other models
Best Functional Trainer Workout Machine for Weight Loss: REP Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
REP Fitness
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Functional Trainer/Cable Machine
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: N/A
- Machine weight: 1,001 pounds
- Dimensions: 72 inches wide x 45 inches deep x 84 inches tall
- Display: No
- Assembly required? Yes; requires two people and takes two hours
- Price: $2,499.99
- Warranty: Lifetime frame warranty. One-year warranty on hardware, pop-pins, pulleys and cables
The Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer as a commercial-grade cable strength training machine designed for home gyms. The range of exercises that you can do on a functional trainer keeps your strength training program varied and can help you build stronger bones and muscles. This versatile trainer features 16 cable positions with dual weight stacks that can each provide up to 220 pounds of resistance, for a total of 440 pounds. However, the cable pulley ratio is two-to-one, so when you lift 20 pounds, it will feel like 10 pounds.
The Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer is well-built, featuring a sturdy, 11-gauge steel frame that is double powder coated with a black metallic finish. Design features such as laser-etched cable column markings help quickly and easily line up the handles, a magnetic-tipped pin and a wheeled column handle so that you can adjust the pulley height smoothly all contribute to ease of use of the machine. The FT-5000 includes two urethane strap handles, storage pegs for the attachments and an exercise placard, which illustrates exercises you can do on the machine for different muscle groups in the upper body and lower body, such as the quads, hamstrings, glutes, chest and abdominals.
Pros:
- Commercial-grade gym equipment
- Can be used for strengthening exercises that work muscle groups in the entire body to help build muscle
- Excellent warranty
- No subscription fees
Cons:
- Machine is large and takes up a lot of space
Best Stationary Bike Workout Machine for Weight Loss: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
NordicTrack
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: Indoor cycling bike
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
- Machine weight: 205 pounds
- Dimensions: 22 inches wide x 61 inches long x 58 inches tall
- Display: Yes; 22-inch 360 degree rotating smart HD touchscreen
- Assembly required? Yes, but there are assembly videos and setup takes about 45 minutes
- Price: $1,999
- Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty and one-year labor warranty
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is a smart indoor cycling bike that features on-demand guided global workouts with personal trainers on the iFIT platform as well as Explore the World virtual courses. Unlike other stationary bikes, the S22i has both incline and decline, giving riders the opportunity to replicate the feel of cycling on outdoor terrain. The spin bike automatically adjusts the incline and resistance according to the global course or on-demand workout you are following plus, you can access workouts off the bike as well, using the fully rotatable 22-inch smart HD touchscreen to watch the on-screen instructors on the floor next to the exercise bike.
To accommodate users of different sizes, you can adjust the seat and handlebars both up and down and forward and back. The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike has a user weight capacity of 350 pounds, which is higher than many home gym indoor cycling bikes. There are also 24 levels of silent magnetic resistance to help users get a challenging workout. You can incorporate strength training exercises that target your upper body using the two three-pound dumbbells that come with the bike.
Pros:
- Offers -10 percent decline to 20 percent incline
- 24 digital resistance levels
- Features one touch controls and automatic adjustment during iFIT workouts
- Includes dumbbells to work upper-body muscles
- Large screen for immersive training
Cons:
- Requires strong WiFi signal to stream classes
Best Elliptical Workout Machine for Weight Loss: ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical Trainer
ProForm
Key features and specs
- Type of machine: HIIT elliptical trainer/stair climber hybrid
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
- Machine weight: 224 pounds
- Dimensions: 29 inches wide x 52 inches long x 66 inches tall
- Display: Yes; 14-inch smart touchscreen with HD display
- Assembly required? Yes, but there are assembly videos and setup takes about 45 minutes with two people
- Price: $1,599
- Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty and one-year labor warranty
Although any elliptical machine can be used for weight loss workouts, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 is specifically designed for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts, which helps boost weight loss efforts. HIIT workouts are more efficient for fat burning from a time standpoint compared with moderate-intensity, steady-state workouts. According to research HIIT can help support weight loss by boosting your metabolic rate for up to 14 hours or more after your workout is over, enabling you to burn more calories, even at rest. Additionally, because your feet are always in contact with the pedals, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 provides a joint-friendly, low-impact workout, which can benefit those with joint pain who are unable to perform high-impact activities such as running.
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 features a 14-inch smart HD touchscreen that displays your stats, programs and entertainment to keep you engaged during your workout. Another standout feature is automatic adjustments during your workouts—the resistance level changes to match the instructor's directions during guided workouts.
Like all ProForm and NordicTrack cardio equipment, the touchscreen can be used to stream the thousands of iFIT on-demand workout classes and global virtual training courses. The iFit platform has such a wide range of exercise classes, including strength training workouts, yoga classes, stretching and more, which will help your workout routine varied to prevent boredom and maximize your weight loss results. The unit comes with a 30-day free trial, after which you will have to pay for your iFIT membership.
The Pro HIIT H14 elliptical features an effective, inertia-enhanced 30-pound flywheel and 26 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR). User reviews note that the machine feels smooth and operates quietly and seamlessly between levels. The range and resistance allows the machine to be used by people of all fitness levels, including beginners. The movable handlebars help you engage your upper body and core, providing a full body cardio and strengthening workout.
Pros:
- iFit personal trainers and guided workouts
- Compatible with Google Maps and Explore the World
- Large pedals and heavy flywheel
- Low-impact workout
- Works the upper body and lower body simultaneously
Cons:
- Requires iFIT subscription to maximize your experience
How to Choose the Best Workout Machine for Your Weight Loss Goals
There are several factors to consider when choosing the best workout machine for your weight loss goals and it comes down to personal preference. Below are some things to keep in mind when choosing what’s right for you.
Type of exercise machine
The primary consideration when choosing the best workout machine for your goals is the type of exercise machine that you want. Any type of physical activity burns calories and can therefore potentially help you lose weight, but certain types of exercise are particularly effective for weight loss. For example, total-body, high-intensity cardio workouts like running, stair climbing, rowing or HIIT workouts on an exercise bike, elliptical or rower can torch a lot of calories in a short amount of time. Resistance training workouts can also be great for weight loss because they can help you build lean body mass, which can boost your metabolic rate.
However, the most important consideration is the type of exercise you will enjoy doing most. You will only be able to lose weight by exercising if you are actually doing your workouts, so you should buy a type of exercise machine that you want to use and that you will use consistently and long enough during each workout to increase your calorie burn.
Available space
When buying an exercise machine for your home gym, you need to consider your space available for your fitness equipment. Different types of workout machines for weight loss will have various footprint sizes and space requirements. For example, if you buy a non-folding treadmill or a standard elliptical, you will have to have a large dedicated floor space for your equipment. Some exercise equipment, such as the CLMBR, require a minimum ceiling height. Also note that some rowing machines can be stored vertically when not in use, but these, too, need ample ceiling height. Stationary bikes, cross trainers and steppers tend to take up the least amount of floor space. If you’re truly tight on space, wall-mounted home gym units, such as Tonal, don’t take up any dedicated floor real estate, although you’ll need enough room in front of the unit to move during your workout.
Budget
The price range for the top workout machines spans the gamut depending on the type of machine, quality of machine, manufacturer, specs and features of the unit. Your budget will largely narrow down the best workout machine for your goals. Although most types of fitness equipment have budget-friendly options and premium options, one thing to consider if you are working on a tight budget is whether you are purchasing a workout machine that requires an ongoing subscription in order to use the unit. For example, the Peloton Bike and Peloton Tread require paying for the Peloton All-Access Membership every month. If you do not want to get locked into subscription fees to use your fitness equipment and you tend to like to do your own self-guided workouts or choose whatever fitness apps you enjoy most, look for an exercise machine that offers Bluetooth compatibility so you can use your tablet or phone to stream workouts.
Workouts
If you want guided workouts or access to on-demand classes, look for a workout machine that is compatible with a platform or fitness app with programming that appeals to you.
How We Chose the Best Workout Machines for Weight Loss
To choose the best workout machines for weight loss, we first considered the types of cardio exercise and strength training that are most conducive to losing weight. We then selected the best exercise machine in each category based on performance features and specs, user reviews and product ratings, value based on price and functionality, quality of construction, types of workouts that can be done on the machine and how well the workout machine might be able to support weight loss goals.
Workout Machines for Weight Loss FAQs
Which workout machine gives you the quickest weight loss results?
To maximize your fat loss in the shortest amount of time, you need to perform high-intensity workouts that elevate your heart rate as much as possible. Some of the best cardio machines to maximize fat loss include rowing machines, the Assault bike (or other air bikes), cross trainers and stair climbers. This is also dependent on a variety of personal factors. For a more in-depth look, Harvard Health provides the approximate number of calories burned in a 30-minute workout on different types of exercise machines. At the end of the day, a healthy weight is very individualized, and your goal for exercise should be to feel your best. You should also consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.
How long should I exercise on a workout machine to lose weight?
The ideal workout length for weight loss will depend on the type of workout machine you are using, how often you work out, the intensity of your workouts, whether you incorporate other types of exercise into your workout routine, your diet and your current body size and goal weight. With that said, aiming to meet the physical activity guidelines for adults set forth by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and American Heart Association which are to accumulate either 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardio exercise per week, is a good starting place for weight loss.
What workout machine will give me a smaller waist?
Getting a smaller waist is a matter of decreasing your subcutaneous (under the skin) and visceral (deep) abdominal fat. However, you cannot spot-reduce fat to decrease your waist size.
Final Thoughts
Cardio workouts and resistance training can both be effective for losing weight, particularly if you perform high-intensity workouts. Choosing the best workout machine for weight loss involves deciding what type of exercise you will prefer doing consistently and long enough during your workouts to maximize the number of calories that you burn, as well as your budget, home gym space and fitness level.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
