The Best Elliptical For Bad Knees In 2024

Jonathan Wilson By, Jonathan Wilson
Updated
Best Elliptical For Bad Knees
Best Elliptical For Bad Knees

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical Peddler

"The Sunny Health & Fitness Fully Assembled Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical Peddler is perfect for people who want to cross-train or are looking for an alternative to the treadmill. With a compact design and magnetic resistance, you can use this piece of equipment on a variety of surfaces." Read Review

2. Runner Up: Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical

"This feature-packed recumbent cross trainer with an elliptical provides all the benefits of a regular workout, without the stress on your joints and back. The naturally reclining seated position helps to eliminate stress on the joints and back, while fluid stride motion allows you to protect your knees and joints." Read Review

3. Best Economical: LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Elliptica

"LifePro Pedal Elliptical is an adjustable pedal exerciser that automatically adjusts to your stride and resistance levels. It's designed for seniors, adults and teens who want a low-impact, easy-to-use elliptical machine that works your entire lower body." Read Review

4. Best Powerful: SCHWINN Fitness 411 Compact Elliptical Machine

"It's compact enough to fit in any home workout area, yet provides the same cardio workout as a full-sized machine. The up-to-date technology and sleek design will have you motivated and energized to achieve your fitness goals." Read Review

If you’ve struggled to get up and down from your elliptical, you may be experiencing knee pain. Keep reading for answers as well as some tips on which elliptical is best for bad knees. You can find the right machine for you by considering your knee alignment, how often you plan to use it, and even its appearance.

Are your knees restricting movement? Are they causing pain when used repetitively? If so, it’s time to find an elliptical with a smooth stride and fewer inclines and declines. Luckily, there are lots of ellipticals with great reviews that don’t hurt your joints.

After doing extensive study and analysis over a 21 hours, We think the best elliptical for bad knees is Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Elliptical Peddler. You can consider Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!

Compare

TOP Choice #1 Sunny Health & Fitness  Under Desk Elliptical Peddler
Our Score:
9.8
Sunny Health & Fitness

BELT DRIVE MAGNETIC RESISTANCE: This elliptical pair a belt drive mechanism with magnetic resistance to give you a low maintenance and smooth quiet exercise experience.

EASY TRANSPORTATION – A centrally located transportation handles allows you to move your elliptical with ease.

DIGITAL MONITOR: Track time, speed, calories, and distance using the centrally located digital monitor. Or chose the scan function to scroll through all variable while your workout.

8 LEVELS OF RESISTANCE: Choose between 8 levels of magnetic resistance using the tension knob to provide increased levels of intensity to your workout as you build muscular endurance.

Included Components: Elliptical, User Manual

COMPACT SIZE: This low profile elliptical will fit under most desks and around your favorite chairs giving you the freedom to exercise while you sit in many different environments.

ZERO-IMPACT EXERCISE: Ideal for all fitness levels. The naturally-reclined seated position eliminates stress on the joints and back and reduces body fatigue while delivering a total body, fat-burning cardio workout. A great exercise option for those with Arthritis, Parkinson's or MS.

WHISPER-QUIET, FLUID STRIDE: The natural striding motion follows a smooth, linear path to protect your knees and joints. With 13 levels of smooth magnetic resistance, a simple turn of the dial takes your workout from zero to intense.

COMMERCIAL-GRADE ENGINEERING: Friction-free linkage system means long-lasting use; Low-profile 54" x 38" footprint.

LT3 PREMIUM FEATURES: Upgraded UltraGlide Bearings promise long-lasting frictionless motion for fluid start up and stride transitions; SoftStep Pedals with durable grip surface for added traction and control; Larger ComfortSelect Seat with more positioning options; SureGrip handles with high-grade polyurethane coating for unmatched durability.

TOTAL BODY WORKOUT: Dual power motion works your upper and lower body simultaneously, engaging all major muscle groups to build strength and burn more calories. Modify the workout by isolating your legs or arms for added intensity.

TOP Choice #3 LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Elliptica
Our Score:
9.5
LifePro

LIFETIME WARRANTY - every Lifepro product undergoes rigorous quality control testing, comes with lifetime support from our 'guiding angels' and has a built in lifetime warranty - so your never left hanging.

TRACK YOUR WORKOUTS - we made it super easy to track your workouts - use the LCD monitor to track time, strides, calories burned and more - or use the bluetooth feature to connect your phone to our elliptical!

BONUS FEATURES - we added many free add ons to our elliptical - enjoy the non-slip mat and resistance band for your workouts. Use the castor stoppers to stop your chair from moving while pedaling and put your phone in the little holder for easy viewing. It even has batteries included!

BOOST YOUR FITNESS - our professionally designed under desk bike can help you burn calories, decrease stress, tone your legs and improve your mood - all while sitting! Just use the bike to pedal at your desk or while relaxing at home.

CUSTOMIZE THE CHALLENGE - whether your a beginner or a pro, you can choose the level of difficulty you want - simply turn the tension knob to choose from 8 different resistance levels.

16 levels of variable resistance allows you to dial the challenge up or down

Streamlined console displays time, speed, distance, calories, and heart rate

Space saving design with 18” stride length

Low-impact cardio workouts at a fraction of the size of other ellipticals

Built-in media rack and water bottle holder

Moving and fixed padded handlebars with heart rate contact grips

Explore the world and discover more than 50 global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed (Explore the World subscription required)

5 DeskCycle Compact Mini Seated Elliptical
Our Score:
9.3
DeskCycle

SWITCH IT UP: Extra long and wide pedals allow you to adjust the shape of your elliptical motion by where you place your feet; Place them on top of the pedal to maximize up/down movement, or towards the bottom for more horizontal strides

MULTI-TASK: Our premium quality under desk elliptical machine can help you burn calories, boost your energy level, increase productivity and reduce stress as you work

MAGNETIC RESISTANCE: This compact elliptical exercise machine has ultra-smooth magnetic resistance, a superior flywheel and a sturdy base. It's whisper quiet, so you'll never bother those around you

BUILD UP STRENGTH: Choose from 8 different resistance levels, from very easy to really hard! This seated elliptical machine is the perfect leg exercise bike for seniors, physical therapy, or anyone who wants to get more active.

EASY TO USE: Large 6-Function LCD display tracks revolutions, RPM, time, calories burned and more; For easy reading, remove the display from under the desk and set it up on your table with the included display stand.

WORK FROM HOME FITNESS - Now you can exercise while you work from home - right at your desk! Burn calories, lose weight, and feel great with Cubii elliptical machines for home use

USE THE CUBII MOBILE APP – Use the Cubii mobile app to track your progress by manually entering the data from your LCD display

LOW IMPACT, ULTRA SMOOTH ELLIPTICAL EXERCISE MACHINE - Move a little more each day to reach your wellness goals! Use this under-desk elliptical, burn calories, improve mobility, and increase strength. Does not have the impact on your joints like an under desk treadmill, under desk bike pedal exerciser, stair stepper, or workout bike

LCD DISPLAY FITNESS TRACKER - The digital monitor clearly displays your progress so that you can use your desk elliptical workout equipment and track your calories, strides, distance and time. Do even more by manually entering your stats into the Cubii Mobile App

CUBII UNDER DESK ELLIPTICAL- Get fit while you sit! Cubii JR2 is an elliptical machine that's like an under desk bike, under desk treadmill, or pedal exerciser that lets you burn calories, get fit and exercise easily

Display showing speed, time, distance, Pulse, rpm, calories, watts, & resistance level "1-16"

Standard stationary comfort seat with contact heart rate

User friendly LCD display

Independent semi-elliptical motion

Fully Adjustable rotating handles

★【2 in 1 & Auto or Manual Modes & Built-in Display Monitor】This leading compact ergonomic elliptical can plug in the power to assisted workout or use it directly without power. ANCHEER under desk cycle gives your full workout while you sit at home and office.

★【Multiple Movement Function】Depending on your needs and abilities, under desk elliptical trainer has Auto (P1-P3) & Manual (5-levels speed) for your choice. Pedals can forward or backward to target different muscles. Note: only use it while sitting.

★【Smooth Quiet & Portable】Designed specifically to be whisper quiet, You can enjoy the convenience of working out without disturbing those around you. Calf leg foot pedal exerciser is portable and easy to move. No assembly required.

★【Large Anti-slip Pedals】Get an effective workout with large textured anti-slip foot pedals and low-attention exercise promotes leg movement and improved circulation in a non-distracting way. ANCHEER under desk elliptical machine is nice exercise equipment for home workouts

★【What You Will Get】12-Month friendly customer service. If you don't satisfied with this ITEM or have any question about the product, please feel free to contact us at any time.

9 SITFIT Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Bike
Our Score:
8.7
SITFIT ELLIPTICAL

⚡Power Up Your Progress: All bodies are different, so we made this seated pedal e

💯Easy To Use: With the control panel or remote (and guide included) set your stationary pedal exerciser to manual or auto then choose your speed or program. You can scroll between distance, speed, time and calories burned, it has non-slip peddles, and there’s even a holder to keep your phone handy!

💪Workout At Your Level: It doesn't matter if you're using SITFIT for an under desk bike pedal exerciser, or an exercise bike for seniors with Arthritis or Parkinsons, simply choose the speed and direction you want to pedal, and SITFIT starts turning - pumping blood and moving muscles for circulation and health.

🏠Try It In Your Home: SITFIT Seat and Desk Pedal Exerciser is 16lbs and has a handle making it easy to slide away when not in use and comes with a 90-Day Extended Warranty should anything happen. So if you're looking for a seated elliptical to power up your mobility, try the motorized SITFIT exercise peddler now.

✅A Mini Exercise Bike For Those With Mobility Goals: This is not a desk cycle with hard resistance levels. For sedentary people like us that's not the goal! The SITFIT compact elliptical is purpose built for seniors, rehab and circulation. But you can also track calorie burn and increase speed as you please!

✅ [Golden Customer Service for U] Buy NOW ROTAI Elliptical with two year guarantee and enjoy golden customer service through amazon.

✅[Visible Digitals Monitor for U] No matter you are working reading watching tv or teleconferencing, it always works quietly and has no attractions. When the machine works, there is no need to bend, you can just use remote to set to a comfortable speed and direction. How many calories burned, how far distance goes or how long the machine works all you care about are in LCD Monitor.(Remote 2 AAA batteries are NOT INLCUDED)

✅[Make It Exercise for U] On some rainy or cold snowy days, a good way to get exercise is to use this machine under the desk as a mini exercise equipment. Differs from the desk cycle, it has no hard resistances and cannot train big muscles. But it helps you to keep muscle strength and make joints connected closer in the workout. Just be seated and enjoy pedaling.

✅[Shiatsu Comfy Pedal for U] Non-slip pedals are not enough for circulation. So ROTAI Elliptical makes them shiatsu. With this shiatsu pedals, you can do more circulations than only cycle exercise especially when you peal with bare feet or wearing socks. Also, grab the groove you can move easily or make it to store remote/phone.

✅[Let Machine do Workout for U] ROTAI Auto Elliptical is designed to help people do more exercise and promote circulation. Simply pedal and power up muscles for people working around the desk or seniors with Arthritis /Parkinsonism. It works automatically and quietly. So you can do working reading or watching tv and also get workout.

Several things a reader must do before selecting best elliptical for bad knees

Actually, best elliptical for bad knees can be discovered by following these simple steps. Individuals should first understand their needs and the requirements which will guide their decision-making procedure.

Then they must investigate all options available to decide which product satisfies those needs and meet those criteria. After that, the buyer can narrow down their options based on factors such as cost and dependability. Let’s check the tips for better purchase:

Ergonomics

An elliptical restricts the movement of your body, as opposed to a treadmill. Be mindful of how comfortable an elliptical feels to you. While holding the handle, it should not be difficult to hold on. Handgrips for moving should be reachable and shouldn't force wrists into an incongruous position. Your elliptical should feel easy. Most people will find the pedals to be comfortable as close as possible. Your arms, shoulders and knees shouldn't be affected by moving handgrips.

Smoothness

It's important to have a smooth feeling elliptical. However, this is something it's difficult to determine from a spec sheet. An elliptical bike that isn’t perfectly smooth can cause a feeling of uneven resistance. This can be an indication that the movements are not normal.

Programs

Programs can help make exercise more exciting and fun. Paying for unnecessary frills is not a good idea. There are a few simple programs you can use that will help with specific kinds of exercises. Manufacturers can call different programs something else, but they will all be essential. The ability to design your own resistance profiles is possible with the custom program.

Safety Features

Safety precautions for children are required when using an Elliptical. They could become trapped by moving parts or get pinched. Visitors and parents with children need to ensure the machine is locked up.

Size

The average length of an elliptical is 6ft by 2.5ft wide. However, the actual length may vary from 50 to 84inches. The pedals could extend past the machine's length during operation. The pedals will be elevated higher than you would on the treadmill. Make sure your space has a high ceiling. Our step-up heights have been measured at 5-15 inches. At the elliptical's apex, pedals reach 25 inches above the ground. To ensure safety, there must be at least 20 inches of space between the sides and the rear.

Stride Length

What distance the pedals are moving back and forward? This is called stride length. This number should be appropriate for your stride length. You should stride longer, the more tall you are, and your legs.
Some machines come with an adjustable stride length. While others can be set at a constant length. It really doesn't matter whether the adjustable version is for you or not.

Connectivity

Equipment that is connected to the Internet can be used to track and monitor your workouts, create a competition environment and connect to social networks. Many ellipticals come with Bluetooth and wireless connectivity. One allows you to connect a USB stick to upload your workout data via the web to a tracking tool accessible from a laptop.

Incline

There are many settings for treadmills, including incline. Elliptical trainers do too. At least, some do. You'll need to pay for the adjustable incline feature on an elliptical treadmill. It's not as widespread as it is on treadmills. This feature is only currently available at higher prices.
Targeting certain muscle groups in your legs is where the incline settings can help. You should target your back more often if the inclines are higher. Glutes, hamstrings, calves are all targets.
An adjustable incline trainer is an option if you want to work out hard and gain muscle mass for your legs. This feature can be omitted to save you money.

FAQs

What If My Elliptical Trainer Is Squeaking?

Be sure to secure all screws during assembly. But don't tighten them too much. Refer to the manual for information on how you can lubricate your guide rails. It is important to check that neither the guiderails nor the pedal arms have been misaligned, and that the machine remains level.

What About Regular Maintenance?

Your user manual will detail the recommended maintenance. The majority of ellipticals don't require any maintenance. However, it is important to check for loose bolts, like those on moving arms, as well as clean the rails, rollers, and other parts.

Should I Go With A Front Drive Or Rear Drive Elliptical?

This is one the most frequent questions about ellipticals. Rear-drive club models tend to be more efficient because the drive axle can be located backwards. It allows for greater power and smoother pedal action. The result is that rear-drive models tend to be more expensive while front-drive machines can often be found for less.

Why Is Stride Length Important?

A Variable or Fixed stride length is available for an elliptical. You will experience a shorter stride that feels like a stairclimber. However, a longer stride is more natural and more enjoyable for long legs. You should choose an elliptical with a minimum stride length not less than 18 inches. Buy a front drive machine. A 20-inch stride length will work well with an 18-inch stride on rear-drive machines.

What If The Console Display Won’t Light?

The display may not turn on if it's not plugged into or the batteries are dead. To check for a working power model, simply unplug it and wait for it to turn on again. Check the wires and cables to make sure they aren't crimped at assembly.

How Many Years Will An Elliptical Work For Me?

While there are many things that influence the life expectancy of an elliptical, it's strongly affected by how often and under what conditions it is used. You can extend the lifespan of your elliptical by maintaining it in a clean area and giving it regular care.

Should I Buy The One With A Heavier Flywheel?

Smoothness of the pedaling action is affected directly by how heavy the flywheel weighs. Higher inertia means that it is easier to keep your drive system turning with a heavier flywheel (28.5 lb)

Conclusion

Before making a purchase decision, the reader should do the following. It's critical to keep these factors in mind when looking for the best elliptical for bad knees since they can help to ensure that you discover what's worth the investment. If you need another option for best elliptical for bad knees, you should look into ROTAI Under Desk Elliptical Machine for Home & Office. Hope you have a nice shopping day!


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About Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson is a former pro football player and tech reporter who now serves as the editor of Kris Van Assche's website. He is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts and running.

Jonathan's athletic career began in college, where he was a star running back. He went on to play professionally for several years before injuries forced him to retire. Afterward, Jonathan transitioned into a career in tech reporting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a knowledgeable and insightful commentator on the industry.

In addition to his work with our website, Jonathan remains active in the world of sports. He regularly competes in martial arts tournaments and running events, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge himself physically. Jonathan is an inspiration to many people, and he is proof that it is never too late to pursue your passions.

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