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Whether you’re dealing with joint issues, recovering from an injury, or just really like moving your arms, the best ellipticals offer a rigorous form of low-impact cardio exercise that, unlike treadmills and most exercise bikes, also engages your upper body. As Kate Bush can attest, huffing and puffing up an incline can get your heart pumping even harder....
The post The 5 Best Ellipticals with Incline for 2024, According to Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.
Whether you’re dealing with joint issues, recovering from an injury, or just really like moving your arms, the best ellipticals offer a rigorous form of low-impact cardio exercise that, unlike treadmills and most exercise bikes, also engages your upper body. As Kate Bush can attest, huffing and puffing up an incline can get your heart pumping even harder. The best ellipticals with incline can help you ramp up typical elliptical training, reaping cardiovascular benefits like lower blood pressure and decreased risk of heart disease. (1)
If you’re thinking of bringing home one of these machines, you may already know you want the challenge that an incline range can add to your workouts. Raising the angle on your elliptical not only adds some variety, but it can also allow you engage muscle groups like the quadriceps even more. (2)(3) Our team of certified fitness pros worked up a sweat on over 20 ellipticals to find the most comfortable, affordable, and tech-laden options with incline. Check out how we tested them, how we picked them, and which ellipticals with incline made the cut in the below round-up. .
The 5 Best Ellipticals with Incline for 2024
About Our Expert
This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer and CrossFit Level 1 instructor. She reviewed the research we cite and the ellipticals we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested several of the ellipticals herself.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Ellipticals with Incline
The BarBend team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and gym owners has been around the block when it comes to the best cardio machines on the market. We’ve gotten in the weeds on 23 different ellipticals, scoring them on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 different categories. We scrutinized the durability, adjustability, and customizations available on each, along with other considerations. These are a few of the factors that helped us choose the best ellipticals with incline.
Incline Range
After years of purchasing, assembling, and using ellipticals, we’ve found that few actually feature an adjustable incline range. For our list, we only included options with at least a 10-percent incline, though can reach pitches up to 15- or 20-percent (and one even has decline capabilities).
BarBend lead video reviewer Jake Herod working out on the NordicTrack FS10i.
Ramping up the incline on your elliptical during a workout has been shown to increase strength in the quadriceps, as well as increase your VO2 max — the amount of oxygen your body can absorb during exercise. (2)(3)(4)
Stride Length
When we put together our list, we looked for ellipticals with stride lengths in the area of 20 inches. According to Sunny Health & Fitness, this is the ideal length for the majority of athletes. (5) Of course, every user and pair of legs are different, but a 20-inch stride length should be comfortable for anyone between 5 foot 3 inches and 6 feet. If you fall outside of that range, you may want to visit a gym or fitness equipment store to identify that measurement before you make your purchase.
Programming
Many ellipticals feature preset workouts like HIIT or Fat Burn programs, but most of the options on our list offer integration with some of the best fitness apps out there, like Sole+ and iFIT. Whether you want to tap Start on a preloaded workout for a bit of guidance, or want to (virtually, of course) hike up Mount Fuji, there’s an elliptical on this list for you.
BarBend lead video reviewer Jake Herod selecting an iFIT class on the NordicTrack FS10i.
While some of the advanced programming options require monthly subscriptions — typically ranging from $20 to $44 — our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, thinks that they can be a good way to bring variety to your workouts. “iFIT is some of the best interactive programming out there and really helps prevent boredom.”
Best Elliptical with Incline Overall: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
With 26 levels of resistance, incline and decline capabilities, and an adjustable stride length that toggles to your personal preferences, the AirGlide 14i is one of the most tech-savvy and feature-rich ellipticals on the market. Plus, like other NordicTrack machines, this elliptical is compatible with iFIT, unlocking over 17,000 live and on-demand workout programs for a fresh sense of training each time you hop on for a session.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
Pros
Cons
NordicTrack’s AirGlide 14i boasts the widest range we’ve seen on an elliptical with incline — -5-percent to 15-percent — but also enjoys the distinction of being the only elliptical we’ve tested with decline capabilities. Its 32-pound flywheel helps create a smooth and steady workout, while having iFIT baked in lets you access thousands of virtual workouts. Some of those workouts can even utilize iFIT’s SmartAdjust automatic resistance and incline control, leaving you to focus on your sweat.
Our tester on the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i.
When our tester —a certified personal trainer — used the 14i, their first note was how sturdy their workouts were, which earned it a 5 out of 5 for durability. “I felt zero shakiness and the entire time it felt super sturdy,” they pointed out. “The fact that it has a 300-pound weight capacity indicates that this thing is durable.”
The technology onboard the AirGlide 14i also enhanced our workout experience when we compared it to other ellipticals with incline. Between the iFIT integration, 14-inch HD touchscreen, Automatic Trainer Control, and Bluetooth connectivity, its tech capabilities and dynamic programming both earned 5 out of 5. (Noticing a theme? We love this thing.)
[Related: iFit Review – Is Virtual Coaching The New Normal?]
As they adjusted -5 to 15-percent incline and 26 resistance levels, our tester did notice a few loud hums, so keep in mind that you may hear the motor from time to time. “It wasn’t too loud, but I did notice it as it worked through the levels,” they noted.
Our tester adjusting the settings on the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i.
With such wide incline and resistance ranges, the noise certainly wasn’t enough to stop them from scoring its adjustability, ergonomics, and customizations — including its adjustable stride length— all 5’s out of 5. “Oh, and I also loved that the pedals adjust to three different tilts — an underrated feature.”
As far as assembly goes, we decided that it’s best left to the pros. We opted for the white-glove assembly option, which took more than 2 hours. This prompted a 3 out of 5 for set up. With all its heavy-duty moving parts, we think it would be tough to take on by yourself.
Best Elliptical with Incline for Comfort: Sole E25
Sole E25 Elliptical
Sole E25 Elliptical
The E25 is a high-quality, no-frills elliptical. It features a budget-friendly price tag, a 350-pound weight limit, and a 20-pound flywheel.
Shop Sole
Specs
Pros
Cons
Ellipticals are low impact by design, but if you’re looking for an even more comfort-focused machine, the Sole E25 may be your best bet. Its unique inward sloping pedals and drive system were designed to provide a comfortable and smooth operation. This can not only help you work around knee discomfort, but more naturally accommodate the ankles and feet.
Our tester on the Sole E25.
In fact, when she took on one of the 10 preset workout programs, certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, highlighted a few of these features when she rated both its adjustability and ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5. “It just seems like they set it up for comfort — angled and textured pedals, handlebar grips, even the fan. Some of these ‘little’ things made a huge difference,” she stated.
Meier also pointed out that the Whisper-Quiet Drive System made for very smooth adjustments through the 0- to 20-percent incline range and 20 resistance levels. “Overall, it was just a quiet machine,” she said, rating its customizations 4.5 out of 5. “It did move ever so slightly side to side, but not enough that I had to adjust my stride or intensity.”
Our tester holding the handles on the Sole E25.
The console’s pair of Bluetooth speakers let you connect your own device to pump out your favorite music, though you can also use your smartphone or tablet to stream a show or follow a virtual workout. The Sole+ companion app also allows you to take on guided elliptical workouts and it can sync your stats and history.
To get the full experience start to finish, Meier even trudged through assembling the E25, which she ended up regretting. “The instructions were ludicrous. There was one picture that contained like 30 steps,” she said when rating its set up 3 out 5. “I definitely wish I had opted for the professional assembly so I could get those two hours of my life back.”
Read our full Sole E25 Elliptical Review.
Best Budget Elliptical With Incline: Schwinn 430 Elliptical
Schwinn 430 Elliptical
Schwinn 430 Elliptical
This affordable elliptical features 26 resistance levels and six levels of incline. A whopping 22 preset workout programs can add some structure to your training. The 20-inch stride length is on par with more expensive machines.
Shop Schwinn
Specs
Pros
Cons
If you want an elliptical with incline, you’re probably going to end up paying well over $1,000 — unless you opt for the Schwinn IC4. Sure, the IC4’s six levels of incline need to be manually adjusted off the machine, but it’s still impressive to see for just $999. Also impressive? Its 26 levels of resistance and 22 preset workouts.
In fact, its value and features, including its 300-pound user weight capacity and 20-inch stride length, earned scores of 4 out of 5 from certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1. “Those levels of resistance and incline, along with the stride length, are not usually found on ellipticals at this price,” she said.
[Related: The 7 Best Ellipticals Under $1000]
While the footprint (the amount of floor space it takes up) of most ellipticals we’ve used falls between 11 and 13 square feet, the 430 occupies a bit more — 13.73 square feet. A larger concern for Meier, however, was its height. “I’d tell people who are above-average height to measure, measure, measure — especially in rooms with lower ceilings,” she cautioned, rating its footprint and portability both 3 out of 5.
The 430 won’t win any awards for its tech capabilities — 3 out of 5 from Meier — but the heart rate monitor, USB charging port, water bottle holder, and speakers earned it a 3.5 for conveniences. “I like the speakers, but you have to use an AUX cord instead of connecting via Bluetooth.” Budget machines have to compromise somewhere.
Best Elliptical with Incline for Small Spaces: NordicTrack FS10i
NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer
NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer
The FS10i features a 10-inch touchscreen monitor, and can serve as a stepper, elliptical, and treadmill by simply changing your natural movement.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
Pros
Cons
For all its impressive features, the three-in-one NordicTrack FS10i takes up remarkably little space. It’s our pick for small spaces because its overall footprint — 11.98 square feet — is on the lower end of the average for ellipticals — 11 to 13 square feet — and it measures 10 inches shorter than many of the models we’ve tested.
BarBend lead video reviewer Jake Herod on the NordicTrack FS10i.
What makes the FS10i unique is that its pedals are incredibly responsive to your stride. As BarBend’s lead video reviewer, Jake Herod,...
Click here to view the article.
The post The 5 Best Ellipticals with Incline for 2024, According to Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.
Whether you’re dealing with joint issues, recovering from an injury, or just really like moving your arms, the best ellipticals offer a rigorous form of low-impact cardio exercise that, unlike treadmills and most exercise bikes, also engages your upper body. As Kate Bush can attest, huffing and puffing up an incline can get your heart pumping even harder. The best ellipticals with incline can help you ramp up typical elliptical training, reaping cardiovascular benefits like lower blood pressure and decreased risk of heart disease. (1)
If you’re thinking of bringing home one of these machines, you may already know you want the challenge that an incline range can add to your workouts. Raising the angle on your elliptical not only adds some variety, but it can also allow you engage muscle groups like the quadriceps even more. (2)(3) Our team of certified fitness pros worked up a sweat on over 20 ellipticals to find the most comfortable, affordable, and tech-laden options with incline. Check out how we tested them, how we picked them, and which ellipticals with incline made the cut in the below round-up. .
The 5 Best Ellipticals with Incline for 2024
- Best Elliptical with Incline Overall: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
- Best Elliptical with Incline for Comfort: Sole E25
- Best Budget Elliptical With Incline: Schwinn 430 Elliptical
- Best Elliptical with Incline for Small Spaces: NordicTrack FS10i
- Best Elliptical with Incline for Streaming: Sole E35 Elliptical
About Our Expert
This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer and CrossFit Level 1 instructor. She reviewed the research we cite and the ellipticals we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested several of the ellipticals herself.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Ellipticals with Incline
The BarBend team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and gym owners has been around the block when it comes to the best cardio machines on the market. We’ve gotten in the weeds on 23 different ellipticals, scoring them on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 different categories. We scrutinized the durability, adjustability, and customizations available on each, along with other considerations. These are a few of the factors that helped us choose the best ellipticals with incline.
Incline Range
After years of purchasing, assembling, and using ellipticals, we’ve found that few actually feature an adjustable incline range. For our list, we only included options with at least a 10-percent incline, though can reach pitches up to 15- or 20-percent (and one even has decline capabilities).
Ramping up the incline on your elliptical during a workout has been shown to increase strength in the quadriceps, as well as increase your VO2 max — the amount of oxygen your body can absorb during exercise. (2)(3)(4)
Stride Length
When we put together our list, we looked for ellipticals with stride lengths in the area of 20 inches. According to Sunny Health & Fitness, this is the ideal length for the majority of athletes. (5) Of course, every user and pair of legs are different, but a 20-inch stride length should be comfortable for anyone between 5 foot 3 inches and 6 feet. If you fall outside of that range, you may want to visit a gym or fitness equipment store to identify that measurement before you make your purchase.
Programming
Many ellipticals feature preset workouts like HIIT or Fat Burn programs, but most of the options on our list offer integration with some of the best fitness apps out there, like Sole+ and iFIT. Whether you want to tap Start on a preloaded workout for a bit of guidance, or want to (virtually, of course) hike up Mount Fuji, there’s an elliptical on this list for you.
While some of the advanced programming options require monthly subscriptions — typically ranging from $20 to $44 — our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, thinks that they can be a good way to bring variety to your workouts. “iFIT is some of the best interactive programming out there and really helps prevent boredom.”
Best Elliptical with Incline Overall: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
With 26 levels of resistance, incline and decline capabilities, and an adjustable stride length that toggles to your personal preferences, the AirGlide 14i is one of the most tech-savvy and feature-rich ellipticals on the market. Plus, like other NordicTrack machines, this elliptical is compatible with iFIT, unlocking over 17,000 live and on-demand workout programs for a fresh sense of training each time you hop on for a session.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
- Price: $1,599
- Incline Range: -5% to 15%
- Resistance Levels: 26
- Stride Length: 17.8? to 18.5?
- Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Product Dimensions: 69? L x 25? W x 71? H
- Display: 14” HD touchscreen
Pros
- While any incline capability is rare on an elliptical, its -5- to 15-percent incline range makes it the only elliptical we’ve tested that can actually decline.
- With iFIT onboard, you can access over 17,000 live and on-demand workouts.
- The 32-pound flywheel helps to ensure smooth adjustment of the 26 resistance levels.
- Its 300-pound weight capacity makes this elliptical accessible for a wide range of athletes.
Cons
- The motor was a bit loud when we adjusted the resistance and incline levels.
- With so many moving parts, our tester recommends the professional assembly option.
NordicTrack’s AirGlide 14i boasts the widest range we’ve seen on an elliptical with incline — -5-percent to 15-percent — but also enjoys the distinction of being the only elliptical we’ve tested with decline capabilities. Its 32-pound flywheel helps create a smooth and steady workout, while having iFIT baked in lets you access thousands of virtual workouts. Some of those workouts can even utilize iFIT’s SmartAdjust automatic resistance and incline control, leaving you to focus on your sweat.
When our tester —a certified personal trainer — used the 14i, their first note was how sturdy their workouts were, which earned it a 5 out of 5 for durability. “I felt zero shakiness and the entire time it felt super sturdy,” they pointed out. “The fact that it has a 300-pound weight capacity indicates that this thing is durable.”
The technology onboard the AirGlide 14i also enhanced our workout experience when we compared it to other ellipticals with incline. Between the iFIT integration, 14-inch HD touchscreen, Automatic Trainer Control, and Bluetooth connectivity, its tech capabilities and dynamic programming both earned 5 out of 5. (Noticing a theme? We love this thing.)
[Related: iFit Review – Is Virtual Coaching The New Normal?]
As they adjusted -5 to 15-percent incline and 26 resistance levels, our tester did notice a few loud hums, so keep in mind that you may hear the motor from time to time. “It wasn’t too loud, but I did notice it as it worked through the levels,” they noted.
With such wide incline and resistance ranges, the noise certainly wasn’t enough to stop them from scoring its adjustability, ergonomics, and customizations — including its adjustable stride length— all 5’s out of 5. “Oh, and I also loved that the pedals adjust to three different tilts — an underrated feature.”
As far as assembly goes, we decided that it’s best left to the pros. We opted for the white-glove assembly option, which took more than 2 hours. This prompted a 3 out of 5 for set up. With all its heavy-duty moving parts, we think it would be tough to take on by yourself.
Best Elliptical with Incline for Comfort: Sole E25
Sole E25 Elliptical
Sole E25 Elliptical
The E25 is a high-quality, no-frills elliptical. It features a budget-friendly price tag, a 350-pound weight limit, and a 20-pound flywheel.
Shop Sole
Specs
- Price: $1,199.99
- Incline Range: 0% to 20%
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Stride Length: 20”
- Weight Capacity: 350lbs
- Product Dimensions: 70? L x 24? W x 70? H
- Display Size: 7.5”
Pros
- Its unique 2-degree inward sloping pedals and heavy-duty rails were designed to reduce stress on the ankles and knees.
- Our tester thought its quiet operation would make it ideal for apartment-dwellers or those with lots of housemates.
- You can connect your own device via Bluetooth to stream workouts with the free Sole+ app or play your favorite music or shows.
Cons
- Without a touchscreen, you’ll need to use your own device to stream content during a workout.
- Our tester said that its assembly was unnecessarily difficult because of poorly-labeled parts and complicated instructions.
Ellipticals are low impact by design, but if you’re looking for an even more comfort-focused machine, the Sole E25 may be your best bet. Its unique inward sloping pedals and drive system were designed to provide a comfortable and smooth operation. This can not only help you work around knee discomfort, but more naturally accommodate the ankles and feet.
In fact, when she took on one of the 10 preset workout programs, certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, highlighted a few of these features when she rated both its adjustability and ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5. “It just seems like they set it up for comfort — angled and textured pedals, handlebar grips, even the fan. Some of these ‘little’ things made a huge difference,” she stated.
Meier also pointed out that the Whisper-Quiet Drive System made for very smooth adjustments through the 0- to 20-percent incline range and 20 resistance levels. “Overall, it was just a quiet machine,” she said, rating its customizations 4.5 out of 5. “It did move ever so slightly side to side, but not enough that I had to adjust my stride or intensity.”
The console’s pair of Bluetooth speakers let you connect your own device to pump out your favorite music, though you can also use your smartphone or tablet to stream a show or follow a virtual workout. The Sole+ companion app also allows you to take on guided elliptical workouts and it can sync your stats and history.
To get the full experience start to finish, Meier even trudged through assembling the E25, which she ended up regretting. “The instructions were ludicrous. There was one picture that contained like 30 steps,” she said when rating its set up 3 out 5. “I definitely wish I had opted for the professional assembly so I could get those two hours of my life back.”
Read our full Sole E25 Elliptical Review.
Best Budget Elliptical With Incline: Schwinn 430 Elliptical
Schwinn 430 Elliptical
Schwinn 430 Elliptical
This affordable elliptical features 26 resistance levels and six levels of incline. A whopping 22 preset workout programs can add some structure to your training. The 20-inch stride length is on par with more expensive machines.
Shop Schwinn
Specs
- Price: $999
- Incline Range: 6 levels
- Resistance Levels: 26
- Stride Length: 20”
- Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Dimensions: 70.1? L x 28.2? W x 63.2? H
- Display: LCD screen
Pros
- At $999, it comes in around $200 less than the average elliptical, but still features 26 resistance levels and six levels of incline.
- A whopping 22 preset workout programs can add some structure to your training.
- The 20-inch stride length is on par with more expensive machines.
Cons
- Its 13.73-square-feet footprint is slightly larger than the average range for ellipticals — 11 to 13 feet.
- Taller users may find it a bit too high for rooms with low ceilings.
If you want an elliptical with incline, you’re probably going to end up paying well over $1,000 — unless you opt for the Schwinn IC4. Sure, the IC4’s six levels of incline need to be manually adjusted off the machine, but it’s still impressive to see for just $999. Also impressive? Its 26 levels of resistance and 22 preset workouts.
In fact, its value and features, including its 300-pound user weight capacity and 20-inch stride length, earned scores of 4 out of 5 from certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1. “Those levels of resistance and incline, along with the stride length, are not usually found on ellipticals at this price,” she said.
[Related: The 7 Best Ellipticals Under $1000]
While the footprint (the amount of floor space it takes up) of most ellipticals we’ve used falls between 11 and 13 square feet, the 430 occupies a bit more — 13.73 square feet. A larger concern for Meier, however, was its height. “I’d tell people who are above-average height to measure, measure, measure — especially in rooms with lower ceilings,” she cautioned, rating its footprint and portability both 3 out of 5.
The 430 won’t win any awards for its tech capabilities — 3 out of 5 from Meier — but the heart rate monitor, USB charging port, water bottle holder, and speakers earned it a 3.5 for conveniences. “I like the speakers, but you have to use an AUX cord instead of connecting via Bluetooth.” Budget machines have to compromise somewhere.
Best Elliptical with Incline for Small Spaces: NordicTrack FS10i
NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer
NordicTrack FS10i Freestride Trainer
The FS10i features a 10-inch touchscreen monitor, and can serve as a stepper, elliptical, and treadmill by simply changing your natural movement.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
- Price: $1,799
- Incline Range: 0% to 10%
- Resistance Levels: 24
- Stride Length: 32”
- Weight Capacity: 375lbs
- Dimensions: 58.5? L x 29.5? W x 74? H
- Display Size: 10” HD touchscreen
Pros
- Its overall footprint — 11.98 square feet — is on the lower end of the average for ellipticals, and it’s around 10 inches shorter.
- Despite its compact design, this machine is a three-in-one elliptical, stepper, and treadmill.
- You can access over 17,000 live and on-demand iFIT workouts on the 10-inch HD touchscreen.
Cons
- The $1,799 price tag is at the top of the range we see on most ellipticals — $1,000 to $1,800.
- After your first free month, an iFIT membership is an additional $39.99 per month.
- Our tester said that transporting it can be tricky because the legs can’t lock into place.
For all its impressive features, the three-in-one NordicTrack FS10i takes up remarkably little space. It’s our pick for small spaces because its overall footprint — 11.98 square feet — is on the lower end of the average for ellipticals — 11 to 13 square feet — and it measures 10 inches shorter than many of the models we’ve tested.
What makes the FS10i unique is that its pedals are incredibly responsive to your stride. As BarBend’s lead video reviewer, Jake Herod,...
Click here to view the article.
