Starting a home fitness routine can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right equipment makes all the difference. Here’s what to know before investing in an elliptical for your space and lifestyle.
Building a home fitness routine is about more than convenience—it’s about finding equipment that matches your goals, space, and budget. With so many options available, it helps to focus on machines that provide versatile, approachable, and long-term benefits.
Among the most popular choices, especially for beginners, is the elliptical. Known for its smooth motion and joint-friendly design, this machine has become a reliable entry point for those wanting to stay active at home without putting excess strain on their body.
Ellipticals are often the first choice for users who are looking to get started with a home fitness regime because they are easily adaptable to any fitness level, offer low-impact and joint-friendly workouts that suit all ages and body types, and offer whole body cardio, strength, and toning benefits.
Plus, the variety of built-in programs and resistance levels means users can start gently and gradually progress to more challenging workouts, making it a machine that grows with you rather than one you quickly outgrow.
Most new home fitness users will find that ellipticals tend to run in three different categories:
For those who are looking for an easy-to-use and reliable machine that comes with enough workout and performance features to make the investment seem worthwhile, most fitness experts recommend mid-range models.
As Smart Health Clubs recently reported, in 2025, the average American gym membership costs $50 a month, with premium gyms averaging $200 a month. This means that, roughly, in just two years at the average rate, or in just 6 months at the premium rate, a new home fitness user will have comparatively ‘paid off’ a comfortably mid-range $1,200 elliptical.
Generally speaking, models in this price range will be designed to balance affordability with advanced features like fluid motion, heavy flywheels, and ergonomic design.
At this mid-range price point, many ellipticals now include user-friendly screens with preset workout programs, making it easy to follow along without guesswork. Features such as multiple incline options, heavier flywheels for a smoother stride, and adjustable pedals often come standard, offering both comfort and challenge. More advanced models may also incorporate touchscreen displays with app connectivity, giving users access to interactive routines and fitness tracking tools.
Across the board, the emphasis is typically on natural motion, durable frames, and ergonomic design to reduce strain while still delivering a demanding workout. Many reputable machines also include generous warranties, particularly on frames and flywheels, which can help make the investment feel more secure.
The good news is, if you have decided you want to invest in your health and fitness, good home gym equipment doesn’t have to break the bank.
