Elliptical machines and exercise bikes are popular stationary cardio machines for home gyms. Both help you achieve a cardiovascular workout and burn calories. Choose the one that best matches your fitness goals and physical needs.
Elliptical Machine
An elliptical machine mimics the movement of running, but without impact. If you purchase one with arm poles, the movement is a lot like cross-country skiing. The machine features two pedals that glide along a set of rails. As you increase resistance, it becomes more challenging to push the pedals--increasing your heart rate and calorie burn. Some elliptical trainers for the home offer the option to raise the height of the rails--or cross ramp--to simulate hill climbing and use different muscles in the legs.
Exercise Bike
Exercise bikes come in recumbent and upright models. Recumbent bikes feature a bucket-like seat and back support, while upright bikes are structured like a traditional road bicycle. Both offer a low-impact workout. You can simulate hill climbing and boost leg strength by increasing the resistance against which you pedal.
Cost and Space
When considering which works best for a home gym, determine your budget and space available. Quality ellipticals range in price from about $500 to $2,500 while you can get a stationary bicycle starting around $200. Ellipticals are larger machines and require about 30 square feet of space, notes the American Council on Exercise. Expect a stationary bike to need only 10 square feet.
Considerations
The movement of the stationary bike may seem more natural to some people than the movement on the elliptical. Both machines are appropriate for multiple levels of exercise because you can adjust the resistance according to your fitness abilities. Even though the elliptical is a low-impact machine, you still must stand on it, and this may be uncomfortable if you are significantly overweight. An elliptical machine workout will burn more calories in the same amount of time. The Health Status website reports that a 200 lb. person burns more than 500 calories in 30 minutes of intense work on the elliptical trainer and about 300 calories when working on a stationary bike. An elliptical trainer may not be comfortable for people with balance or back problems. A recumbent bike is best for people with these problems.
Decision
The best strategy is to test both machines out before purchase. Consider if others in the household will use the machine and their particular needs. If cost and space are not an issue, and you are otherwise healthy, an elliptical offers more versatility in terms of workout options and can accommodate a fitness regimen better than an exercise bike. An elliptical's calorie burn will also better complement your weight loss efforts.
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