Types of Cardio Machines


a man running on a treadmill at home

Whether you’re looking to build a home gym or want to upgrade a solo piece of equipment, there are many benefits to investing in a cardio machine for your home. Having a cardio machine as part of your home gym allows you to get a full-body workout without the hassle and time of going to the gym. Plus, if you’re trying to lose weight or need variety in your routines, adding in regular cardio will help you reach your goals and stay focused. 

There are four main types of cardio machines: treadmill, elliptical, exercise bike, and rowers. Before investing in a cardio machine, it’s important to understand all the options available so you’re able to find the best cardio machine for you and your fitness goals. To help inform your choice, our Exercise Experts explain the basics of each type of cardio machine.

1. Treadmill

a man running on a treadmill at home

One of the most common and versatile cardio machines for your home is a treadmill. Ideal for households with different fitness levels, treadmills are easy to adjust the level of intensity by simply changing the speed and incline levels. With small adjustments, you’re able to mimic walking, running, jogging, and even hiking outdoors when the weather or temperatures don’t cooperate. 

For those considering a treadmill for your home, our Exercise Experts explain more about all the features to pay attention to when buying a treadmill with our Treadmill Buying Guide. 

Treadmill Highlights:

  • Some noise if running
  • Variety of workout options
  • Great for different fitness levels
  • Some models fold for more compact storage

2. Elliptical

One of the most common and versatile cardio machines for your home is a treadmill. Ideal for households with different fitness levels, treadmills are easy to adjust the level of intensity by simply changing the speed and incline levels. With small adjustments, you’re able to mimic walking, running, jogging, and even hiking outdoors when the weather or temperatures don’t cooperate. For those considering a treadmill for your home, our Exercise Experts explain more about all the features to pay attention to when buying a treadmill with our Treadmill Buying Guide. Treadmill Highlights: Some noise if running Variety of workout options Great for different fitness levels Some models fold for more compact storage

An elliptical machine is designed for those wanting a full-body, fat-burning workout without putting too much stress on your joints. If you find that running, jogging, or completing HIIT circuits causes aches and pains, an elliptical might be the best cardio machine for you to add to your home gym. Plus, with the option to use the handles, an elliptical machine is effective for targeting your upper and lower body as well as raising your heart rate.

Elliptical Highlights:

  • Low-impact
  • Quiet no matter the intensity level
  • Option to work the upper and lower body

If you’re trying to decide between an elliptical or treadmill, our Exercise Experts break down the benefits of ellipticals vs. treadmills so you can ultimately decide which one is better for you. 

3. Exercise Bike

There are two main styles of exercise bikes to choose between—a recumbent bike and an upright cycling bike. Both types of exercise bikes offer a low-impact cardio workout focused on toning and strengthening your legs. With a variety of resistance levels, you’ll be able to dial up or down the intensity as needed; however, a cycling-style bike lends better for those wanting a more challenging workout or using it as cross-training. Exercise Bike Highlights: Low-impact Variety of resistance levels Different styles of exercise bikes

There are two main styles of exercise bikes to choose between—a recumbent bike and an upright cycling bike. Both types of exercise bikes offer a low-impact cardio workout focused on toning and strengthening your legs. With a variety of resistance levels, you’ll be able to dial up or down the intensity as needed; however, a cycling-style bike lends better for those wanting a more challenging workout or using it as cross-training. 

Exercise Bike Highlights:

  • Low-impact
  • Variety of resistance levels
  • Different styles of exercise bikes

4. Rowing Machines

a man using a rowing machine at home

A rowing machine is a popular cardio machine for those who like to focus on strength training yet want an option to raise their heart rate quickly in between rounds. With a rowing workout, you get the fat-burning benefits of cardio with the muscle-toning benefits of strength training. Plus, a rowing machine provides a low-impact, total-body workout. 

Rowing Machine Highlights:

  • Low-impact
  • Targets lower, upper, and core body
  • Some models fold for compact storage

No matter your fitness level or amount of space you have for your home gym, you can find the right cardio machine that works for you. If you’re still not sure what the best home exercise equipment is for you, call or visit your local ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN to speak with an Exercise Expert.