Best Mini Elliptical For Small Spaces

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Elliptical trainers are low-impact cardio exercise machines that simulate running or jogging. These machines are usually big and large. But there are smaller ones available on the market today. These mini ellipticals are compact, lightweight and portable.

Above all, they can be stored anywhere. you can keep a compact elliptical in your car, in your office and perfect for home use.

The elliptical exerciser has always been popular for one very important reason – they provide similar cardio, calorie-burning workout to jogging.

But eliminates the risk of injury and joint stress on the back, knees, ankles, and hips. Who doesn’t love that?

In A Hurry?
The Test Winner After 2 days Of Intensive Budget-based Research:
The Stamina InMotion E1000  stood out as the best mini elliptical by far, in terms of value for money, how compact it is and its overall quality – which set it apart from the rest. This is all you need if you love the concept of a space-saving elliptical for your home or office.

Top 10 Mini Elliptical in 2019

1. Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Elliptical Trainer – for sitting and standing

2. Stamina Inmotion Compact Strider – for sitting and standing

3. Cubii Pro – Seated Under-Desk Elliptical – for sitting

4. Cubii Jr. – Seated Under-Desk Elliptical – for sitting

5. FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical – for sitting

6. jfit Under Desk & Stand Up Mini Elliptical – for sitting

7. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical – for sitting

Overview of an Elliptical Trainer

The first time I stepped on an elliptical trainer, the question I asked myself was, “How can this (slow motion-like) machine give me the beach body I’ve always dreamed of?”

I was confused.

Until I realized after several days in the gym that, it was actually one of the most popular exercise machines around. All the girls used it either before or after a period of sweating on the treadmill.

I loved where the girls were. And what they like. So I started paying attention to the dynamics of elliptical trainers.

At last, I could speak to them more often especially when we tend to use this machine together. The rest as they say – is history.

Elliptical trainers have been a favourite for many when it comes to cardio exercise machines. But they’re generally huge and large. You’ll need to go to a gym or a health club to find one. Of course, you may also buy one for your home.

And that is not for regular Joe’s like us.

It’s quite expensive for many. Well, I don’t know about you. Great news, there are mini ellipticals on the market too. They are portable, lightweight and compact. Most importantly, they can fit in a corner, closet, or even under your bed.

Also known as an under-desk compact elliptical machine, they’re increasingly becoming popular because they’re compact, easy to use and saves home space.

They are way less expensive too. Unlike the huge elliptical trainers, a mini elliptical may cost just about $100 to $500. Sure, there are some very advanced and sophisticated ones that have a higher price point though.

A mini elliptical may not offer the adrenaline-pumping high-impact workouts you crave or see in gyms.

This small elliptical offers a low-impact exercise regime. Suitable for office workers and home use.
They are great for your indoor aerobic exercises anytime anywhere.

Mini Elliptical Reviews

1. Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Elliptical Trainer

Stamina Compact Elliptical Trainer

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The Stamina E1000 has been the household name if you ever needed a compact elliptical bike.

In fact, it has over the years been all there is about mini ellipticals. If you ever needed to do a quick low-impact aerobic exercise with a cardio machine that is versatile and compact, the name you would hear is the Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Elliptical Trainer.

It can be used while you sit or stand. You could even use it by pedaling in reverse motion if that pleases you.

Again, it also does what every beginner or fitness enthusiast has on his/her goal list – burn calories, tone lower-body muscle (leg, thigh, bum, etc..) and improve your cardiovascular health to reach your fitness goal this year. You get all these amazing benefits without putting too much stress on your joints.

You require a space of about 24.5 x 17 inches to store this piece of equipment. Like many other compact elliptical trainers, this mini is portable, lightweight and compact. It will easily fit in a closet, a car or even under the bed. Why not, even smaller treadmills can go under the bed completely to save space.

As mentioned earlier, you can do your cardio workout on this machine while you perform your favorite home or office activities/duties with no distraction.

Lastly, it comes in 3 color options. Silver, green and Orange. Simple but nice colors to choose from.

Pros

Uses of Stamina Compact Trainer

  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Will fit under a bed
  • Very affordable price
  • Reverse-Motion textured Pedals
  • Suitable for sitting or standing
  • Suitable for heavyweights – 250 pounds

Cons

  • There is no handle on it
  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

2. Stamina Inmotion Compact Strider – for sitting and standing

Stamina Compact Strider

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There have been a few complaints about the Stamina E1000, so the Stamina Inmotion Compact Strider comes in to fill the gap.

The issue of no handle. With the Stamina Compact strider, there’s a carrying handle that allows you to take the strider wherever you go. And also this unit comes with upper-body workout cords and the other one does not.

With your ability to sit or stand, you can tone both your upper and lower body while increasing your cardiovascular endurance.

According to the manufacturer, your progress will never plateau with the strider. Its adjustable tension allows you to customize the intensity of your workout.

Apparently, as you get stronger, just increase the tension so you can burn more calories as well.

Made for gamers. You can get an effective workout while gaming – this passive, low-attention exercise promotes leg and thigh movement. It also improves circulation in a non-distracting way while playing favorite video games.

ProsStamina Compact Strider while Standing

  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Convenient handle
  • Will fit under a bed
  • Very affordable price
  • Reverse-Motion Pedals
  • Suitable for sitting or standing
  • Suitable for heavyweights – 250 pounds

Cons

  • Machine get unstable over time
  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

3. Cubii Pro – Seated Under-Desk Elliptical – for sitting

Cubii Pro - Under-Desk with app

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If tracking or monitoring your progress is huge for you, then the Cubii Pro is for you. And you don’t need another digital gadget for this purpose.

You can do all of that on your smartphone.

As the ONLY Bluetooth-enabled elliptical on the market, the Cubii Pro will sync your steps, distance, and calories burnt with an iPhone and Android cellphones, Fitbit smart bands, and Apple Health Kit.

This under-desk elliptical is purposely made to be used while sitting. Not suitable when standing because of its low step angle. The main idea behind it is to keep busy office workers fit while doing a low-impact cardio workout without sacrificing work time.

Weather on the couch, at your desk, or even at the dining table – no matter where you’re seated, you can keep fit. It has a low step pattern therefore, it’s easy to use under low desks in the office or at home.

Great for those with a sedentary lifestyle. At last, something can be done about your routine, pain, and suffering. Push yourself to reach your 10,000 step goal.

ProsCubii Pro - Under-Desk with app

  • Quiet
  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Suitable for sitting
  • Will fit under a desk
  • Reverse-Motion Pedals

Cons

  • Pricier – but you get what you pay for.
  • App connection gets unstable over time
  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

4. Cubii Jr. – Seated Under-Desk Elliptical – for sitting

Cubii Jr. - Seated Under-Desk

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The Cubii Junior is simply a straightforward elliptical without the smart features present in the cubii Pro. Apparently, you get all there is in a cubii without all the bells and whistles.

This Cubii has 8 levels of resistance which will increase your activity over time. It comes with a built-in display monitor that tracks real-time, calories, RPM, strides, and distance.

This under-desk elliptical is purposely made for sitting mode.

Not suitable in a standing position because of its low step angle. The Cubii Junior footprint keeps you working while you do an enjoyable low-impact cardio workout without sacrificing time.

The cubii Jr is less expensive as compared to the pro version.

ProsCubii Jr Seated Under-Desk Elliptical

  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Suitable for sitting
  • Reverse-Motion Pedals

Cons

  • Pretty heavy
  • Pricier – but you get what you pay for.
  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

5. FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical – for sitting

FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical

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Closer to what you get with larger elliptical machines, the Fitdesk has a fluid forward and backward shuffle motion.

Of course, you don’t just lose significant weight by just using the FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical. You actually lose weight by combining diet and cardio exercise with this machine in order to burn more calories.

And like many other compact ellipticals, it will also tone your lower body muscles perfectly.

It comes with a digital meter to track your progress on your desk. A desk-stand for the digital meter is also included.

The FitDesk warranty covers manufacturer defects for 1 year. The customer is responsible for the cost of return shipping. FitDesk also offers a 30 days return policy for any reason.

Prosf9b36ee32cd41db2052ef429fc88b6bd

  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Suitable for sitting
  • Will fit under a desk
  • Easy storage under bed
  • Built-in wheels for easy transport
  • Suitable for heavyweights – 250 pounds

Cons

  • Pedals can be too stiff
  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

6. jfit Under Desk & Stand Up Mini Elliptical – for sitting

jfit Under Desk mini elliptical

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My father used to sit in a wheelchair for hours. And that wasn’t the problem. The real issue is the lack of movement. That is a problem.

This under-desk elliptical will keep your lower body moving. The legs, knees, thighs, etc.. as you watch your favorite movie, type, or read a book.

Alternatively, you can use the ‘jfit under the desk’ while standing. You may add some weight to even burn more calories. Switching from a sitting to a standing position is easy.

The jfit comes with a Series 1050 Monitor that records your time, distance, speed, and calories burnt. It features a very easy-to-use design with a turning dial for both standing and under desk exercising.

Lastly, it has a very practical top handle which allows you to move it anywhere easily. And a front handle for additional support and the capability to hold a chair with wheels.

Pros jfit Under Desk elliptical while sitting

  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Will fit under a desk
  • Suitable for sitting or standing
  • Suitable for heavyweights – 250 pounds

Cons

  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

7. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical – for sitting

Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical while sitting

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With textured foot pedals to prevent slipping, this Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical from Sunny Health & Fitness is one great piece of aerobic exercise machine.

With its 8 Levels of belt drive magnetic resistance, you can adjust to your preferred level for a low-impact exercise under your desk or in front of your couch. It comes with a transportation handle for easy movement around.

This is for you if you love the concept of space and time-saving elliptical.

Note: This elliptical is not recommended for backward peddling.

Pros Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical

  • Convenient handle
  • Non-Slip Foot Pedals
  • Will fit under a bed
  • Will fit under a desk
  • Arrives fully assembled

Cons

  • Machine get unstable over time
  • Starts making squeaking noise over time

FAQ’s – Common Problems with Ellipticals and Solutions

How tall a desk is needed?
Most under desk elliptical trainers need approximately 2 to 3 inches of clearance above your knees.
This also depends on how long your legs are. At its highest point, the crank arms are 10 inches off the ground.

Is this loud? Could I use it in an office I share with someone?
Most elliptical trainers are quiet when you start to use them. However, they start making squeaking, clicking noises over time as you use.

The solution is to spray Pledge or WD40 to stop the noise which is mostly from the wheels.

Can you move it around?
The Mini elliptical is made to be portable and lightweight. However, many users have surprisingly found it quite heavy. Hence, there are some that have handled and others with in-built wheels for easy movement and transportation.

What is the ideal User weight limit?
No maximum weight required for seated-only ellipticals, since you are not standing on it. You are on a chair, most likely an office chair  with the elliptical in front of you like a recumbent bicycle

Health Benefits of a Mini Elliptical

It cannot be one of the most popular cardio machines for no reason. Let’s look at a few of these benefits here.

Weight Loss – Burn calories

Nobody wants those extra body fats. Weight loss is high on a lot of people’s goal list.
Even though it is a difficult task. It is very achievable. And the mini elliptical offers you the opportunity to burn calories without exerting so much force.

Body toning -especially legs

Inasmuch as you use your leg more in aerobics exercises, it is one of the few body parts that you can see physical improvement or changes.

Therefore, anything that can directly ensure slight changes is very welcomed. Most women love to see more toned legs, calves and buttocks.

A mini elliptical may not be the ultimate answer to gaining a full lower body workout but can do a great job at toning vital areas to that effect.

Cardiovascular Health

Since the mini elliptical trainers offer a low impact on lower body cardio workout, almost anybody can do it.
Thus, it is soft on the back, knees, ankles and hips (perfect for those with joint pain, or injury)

At the same time getting your heart pumping. That’s a WIN-WIN situation. You get your blood circulating all around your body whilst you burn calories as well.

Uses of a mini Elliptical

Unlike the mini stepper machine, a compact elliptical has pedals for your feet.

As with any exercise routine, proper form is key to a safe and effective workout. For its mini elliptical, one manufacturer recommends that users sit in a chair that has a slight backward slope, allowing the user to lean back slightly.

Naturally, you need a chair that isn’t going to slip around, so use a mat or a heavier chair. The back of the mini elliptical — the side nearest your heels as opposed to your toes — should be placed roughly 8 to 10 inches from the front of your chair, allowing your legs to be slightly extended during the workout.

When a foot is in the “up” position, its corresponding thigh should be roughly parallel to the floor, with the knee and lower leg forming an angle of approximately 110 degrees.

Hold onto the sides of the chair and brace your abdomen throughout the movement, thereby isolating your leg muscles and avoiding compensatory movements that recruit your upper body.

Recommendation – A Word From Cardio Zero

Buying a mini elliptical trainer is not an easy decision to make. And yet, if you think that adding one to your home gym or office will keep you:

  • in shape
  • motivated and
  • in your budget,

then it can be a great asset that will keep you fit, healthy and happy for a very long time.

Try a Mini Elliptical Before You Buy

Like I always advise; before you buy any cardio or exercise equipment, visit a few fitness stores/shops that specialize in fitness equipment. Do well and try several models available.

It will even be better if you could wear your workout gear and use each machine for 10 minutes so you get a feel for it.

While testing things out, pay attention to its resistance, pedal style and quality.

Is it easy to use?

Is it easy to get on and off the elliptical?

Does it make a clicking or clunking noise as you use it?

Make sure the motion is smooth and that nothing impedes your movement. Measure it to make sure you have enough space at home.

Conclusion

If you have not tried a compact elliptical trainer before, get to your local fitness retailer or nearest fitness equipment store and give it a try.

Better yet, pay for a day pass at your local gym or any health club around. You need to gather the courage and put one of these fold-up bikes through a strenuous workout. And let’s see if you notice a difference.

  1. Were you right or wrong after all?
  2. Did it do what the seller says it will do?
  3. Did it meet your expectations after you read this review?
  4. Do you think this new equipment can have a place in your heart and home?

We believe that after this vigorous test and questioning, you can then stop and consider everything you want in a specific model before you invest.

 

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