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If your fitness goals include weight loss, you’re probably looking for efficient ways to burn calories and build muscle in a fun and efficient way.  

While changing your body composition relies heavily on nutrition, cardiovascular work and strength training play a huge part—especially when we’re talking about overall health. Cardio machines, however, tend to be a bit of an investment, so researching your options is a smart move. Luckily, the best cardio machine for weight loss doesn’t have to break your budget.

Some of our expert product testers—which include certified personal trainers, triathletes, and competitive weightlifters—know how difficult it can be to lose weight. That’s why we’ve tested more than 100 treadmills, exercise bikes, rowing machines, and other cardio equipment for people looking to start their fitness journey or include two-a-day training.

We look at important factors, including:

  • Efficiency: Can the cardio machine provide a good workout for people of all fitness levels?
  • Footprint: Can it fit in most home gyms?
  • Price: How expensive is it? Is it worth the investment?
  • Workout programming: Does it come with pre-programmed workouts? Can you sync it with a personal training app?
  • Weight capacity: Can the machine fit people of all sizes who are looking to lose weight?

What cardio machine is best for weight loss? This article will take a look at some of the best cardio equipment on the market and the benefits they offer to those who want to increase their fitness levels.

Our Picks for the Best Cardio Machine for Weight Loss

Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss Video Review

Best Treadmill for Weight Loss: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill

Good for: Anyone who wants a versatile and durable treadmill that can connect to fitness apps

Best Treadmill for Weight Loss

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

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GGR Score: 4

Product Highlights

  • Priced under $1,000
  • Spacious 60-inch running deck
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 60” running surface
  • 3.0 CHP motor
  • Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
  • 325 lb weight limit

Cons

  • Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
  • No included touchscreen
  • 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

Bottom Line

For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.

When you’re on a mission to lose weight and you’re looking at the best treadmill for a home gym, there’s no better choice than the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT. It has a 60-inch running deck that’s perfect for walkers and runners alike, a durable 3.0 CHP motor (well above the industry standard of 2.5 CHP), and can be connected to just about every fitness app, including Peloton. 

That’s right, the treadmill’s Bluetooth connectivity allows you to sync your treadmill’s data with the Peloton app and other training programs and Strava. 

You’ll have to watch the classes on your phone or tablet, which can be secured via the media stand since there’s no touchscreen, but we’re still rating this a 4 out of 5 for tech capabilities. We’re docking a point because your device will block the 7-inch LCD screen that shows your metric (such as distance and calories burned), but on the bright side, there are Bluetooth speakers and a USB charging port. 

Woman walking on the Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill

GGR expert product tester and certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele said she loves the Horizon 7.0’s QuickDial wheels near the handlebars, which allow you to adjust the speed (between 0.5-12 mph) and incline (0-15%). “Anyone who’s doing any kind of interval training will be able to take advantage of this feature,” Lindsay points out in her Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill review. It is a perfect 5 out of 5 when it comes to adjustability.

Check out these trainer-approved treadmill workouts for weight loss

The weight capacity of this treadmill is 325 pounds and it has a cushioned deck that softens the blow to your feet and joints so you can stay on without any discomfort. Plus, it can be folded to make more space in your home gym if needed. 

Lindsay, however, says you may want to find a designated space for this 253-pound cardio machine. “Although it has wheels on it that makes it a little easier to move around, it’s definitely not easy,” she says. “If I’m going to have to move that treadmill out and in every time I want to use it, it’s just not going to get used.” It still earns a 4 out of 5 for portability because it’s a folding treadmill and has wheels.

Dimensions 76.5″ L x 36″ W x 59″ H
Weight253 lbs.
Weight capacity325 lbs.
Speed0.5 –12 mph
Incline 0-15%
Motor3.0 CHP

Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill Video Review

Treadmills for Weight Loss

Treadmills are a mainstay, and probably always will be. They’ve been around for years, but their technology has evolved over time (iFIT treadmills, anyone?) allowing you to do more than ever before. Treadmills can be used for intense cardio workouts, getting your daily steps in, and more. They’re so popular that some people have even incorporated them into their workstations, but that’s another topic for another day.

Good For

A treadmill is an excellent choice for many people because it serves a wide range of fitness levels. Walking is well-tolerated by most people, regardless of their exercise experience, so if you’re just beginning your fitness routine, that might be a great place to start. Then, as you develop your strength and endurance, you can increase the intensity from walking to jogging or running.

Woman jogging on the Sole ST90 treadmill

Not Recommended For

A treadmill might not be the best choice for people looking for a low-impact workout, since the repeated foot strikes may cause some joint pain in people. While there are many folding treadmills that can help you save on space, they’re still larger than other cardio machines such as exercise bikes that may be a better fit for people in apartments.

Estimated Calories Burned in 30 Minutes

Here is a basic breakdown of how many calories a 185-pound person can expect to burn in 30 minutes on a treadmill, according to Harvard Health:

ActivityPaceCalories Burned
Walking17-min. mile159
Jogging12-min. mile336
Running10-min. mile420

Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Weight Loss: WalkingPad P1

Good for: Anyone who wants to burn more calories from the comfort of their desk

Best Under-Desk for Weight Loss

WalkingPad Folding Treadmill

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GGR Score: 3.6

Product Highlights

  • Folds for easy storage
  • Suitable for tall folks and long strides
  • Comes assembled
  • Compatible with KS Fit App
  • Features foot-sensing controls

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Under $450
  • Foldable
  • Can be controlled by the app or a remote
  • Has automatic foot control
  • No assembly required

Cons

  • Max user weight of 220 lbs
  • No obvious warranty

Bottom Line

The WalkingPad is another great option for people who want a way to walk while doing another activity.

When you’re determined to lose weight but have a job that sticks you at a desk all day, why not kill two birds with one stone? Under-desk treadmills have become increasingly popular, and we’re big fans of the WalkingPad because it’s foldable and is one of the most durable under-desk cardio machines we’ve tried. 

Certified personal trainer and GGR Head of Content Nicole Davis has used this treadmill during working hours for more than a year and says it “sounds about the same as regular treadmills,” so you shouldn’t use it during on-camera meetings. “You’d definitely be able to hear it on calls,” Nicole says in her WalkingPad review. She gave it a 3 out of 5 on noise, which is better than similar machines. 

An image of a woman walking on the WalkingPad in her office for the WalkingPad review

Also, if you’re taller or a heavy person you might want to look elsewhere. It has a 220-pound weight capacity, about the standard for under-desk walking pads, and only comes with a 1-horsepower motor, which is why we’re giving it a 3 out of 5 for durability (which is the highest score of any under-desk treadmill). 

Also, as the name implies, this is meant for walking, not running. It has a top speed of 3.75 mph, so it’s not for runners.

For what it’s worth, Nicole says there’s been no major issues with the machine over the 18 months she’s used it. “To my surprise, this thing still works fine,” she says. “I got my money’s worth.” The remote stopped working, but it’s not the biggest deal since it can be controlled via an app. 

You can also adjust the speed by walking on certain parts of the treadmill—placing your feet near the top speeds it up, keeping it in the middle maintains your speed, and walking near the tail end slows it down. 

The feature that separates it from other treadmills is that you can fold it sandwich-style—when folded, it can fit under most sofas or beds. Nicole rates it a 5 out of 5 for portability.

Dimensions Unfolded: 56.37” L x 21.5” W x 5” H
Folded: 32.5” L x 21.5” W x 5” H
Weight62 lbs.
Weight capacity220 lbs.
Speed0.5 – 3.75 mph
Motor1 hp brush motor

Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i

Good for: Anyone looking for a full-body low-impact workout 

Best Elliptical for Weight Loss

NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical

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GGR Score: 4.38

Product Highlights

  • Elliptical machine with incline and decline settings
  • 14” touchscreen display
  • iFIT interactive programming
  • Adjustable stride length
  • Built-in fan and speakers

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Automatic trainer control with iFIT
  • 30-day iFIT trial included
  • Large, cushioned pedals
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • Quiet drive system

Cons

  • Expensive price tag
  • iFIT trial requires your credit card
  • iFIT requires monthly membership fees

Bottom Line

The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical offers both incline and decline training, an adjustable stride length, and a 14-inch touchscreen display for iFIT interactive programming. You’ll enjoy the AirGlide if you want to break a sweat with expert instruction and motivation from iFIT trainers and coaches.

The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i was named our best elliptical overall because it scored a perfect 5 out of 5 in customizations, programming, tech capabilities, durability, and ergonomics. It received that score in customizations largely due to the decline function, which is super-rare in most elliptical machines. 

Having the elliptical at a decline allows you to challenge your cardiovascular system and lower-body muscles in a way they might not be used to, adding some spice to your workouts. It can go from a 5% decline to a 20% incline and has 22 digital resistance levels. 

Pair this with the world-class iFIT programming and you’ll never get tired of cardio time. Certified personal trainer and GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheel enjoys the “Climbing Pyramids” class. “The trainer was fantastic, and I was automatically excited about the class because the second song was from the ‘Barbie’ soundtrack,” she says in our NordicTrack AirGlide 14i review. “There is nothing like good music to make you try hard.”

NordicTrack AirGlide in use

Keep in mind, an iFIT membership costs $39 per month, but you get so much more than virtual classes. The AirGlide has Automatic Trainer Control, which allows your instructor to change the incline/decline and resistance for you (this feature can be turned off). 

In terms of stability, Lindsay has no complaints. “This is a solid machine,” she says. “There was no shaking during the workout.” The only time it made a lot of noise, she says, is when the incline was being adjusted—though she notes it was so loud she couldn’t hear her music. 

One thing we’re not thrilled about is the size. Coming in at 6 feet wide and 2.5 feet wide, it’s not something you’d want to put in a compact home gym. And while Lindsay was able to move it single-handedly thanks to the transport wheels, not everyone can move a more than 200-pound cardio machine. For that reason, it gets a 3.5 for portability. 

It also only has a 300-pound weight capacity (350 pounds is the industry standard) and the 18.5-inch stride length is the best for people taller than 6 feet.

Dimensions 69″ L x 25″ W x 71″ H
Weight244 lbs. in box
Weight capacity300 lbs.
Incline/Decline-5% decline to 15% incline
Stride length17.8″ to 18.5″ auto-adjustable
Resistance22 levels of digital resistance

Ellipticals for Weight Loss

The elliptical is a popular addition to many home gyms. The elliptical makes improvements on the common stairmaster and gives you a lower and upper body workout while getting your heart rate up.

Good For

Elliptical machines are another excellent choice for low-impact training, especially for those who struggle with knee and hip pain. Ellipticals bring the body into a gliding pattern instead of the straight up and down motion that running requires. With less force created on the knees and hips, you get the benefits of a solid cardiovascular workout without the added stress to your joints.

Diamondback Elliptical 1280ef over the shoulder

Additionally, a low-impact workout, like the ones you can do on the elliptical, can be an impactful way to recover from an injury while gradually rebuilding your stamina and strength.

Not Recommended For

Elliptical machines are great for cardio workouts, but if you’re looking for a machine that can stimulate muscle growth this might not be the best choice.

Estimated Calories Burned in 30 Minutes

Here is a basic breakdown of how many calories a 185-pound person can expect to burn in 30 minutes on an elliptical, according to Harvard Health:

ActivityPaceCalories Burned
EllipticalModerate378

Best Rowing Machine for Weight Loss: Aviron Strong Go Rower

Good for: Anyone who wants to explore rowing and make working from home more fun

Best Rower for Weight Loss

Aviron Strong Go Rower

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Product Highlights

  • Dual air and magnetic resistance
  • Use your own device to stream app
  • Games, coached classes, scenic workouts
  • Aluminum construction
  • Upright storage capability

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Quiet belt
  • Vertical storage
  • 507-lb weight capacity
  • 30-day risk free trial

Cons

  • Bulky, not foldable
  • No built-in screen

Bottom Line

The Aviron Strong Go rower is a strong, durable rowing machine that offers dual air and magnetic resistance, which means you'll have tons of adjustments and customizations. To use the Aviron app, you'll need your own device but following along makes workouts more fun and engaging.

We picked the Aviron Strong Go Rower as the best rowing machine for weight loss because it makes burning calories feel like a game. No, really. The Aviron app, an extra $24 monthly charge, is stocked with arcade-style workout programming that will hook you in and help take your mind off the heart-throbbing workout. 

“If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to get some fitness in, and I promise you it will give you a good workout, I would check this out,” says certified personal trainer and GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele. “When I tried these games I was pretty out of breath. In fact, one of our team member’s dad lost 40 pounds through these games.”

aviron strong rower display

We’re giving the programming a 5 out of 5. The tech capabilities, however, leave something to be desired and only get a 3 out of 5. There’s no screen or monitor that shows your workout metrics like distance or calories burned, no heart rate monitor (though you can connect one using Bluetooth connectivity) and to play any of the games you’ll have to use your phone or tablet on the pivoting media holder. 

Lindsay says the 16 levels of dual air and magnetic resistance felt smooth, the seat is easy for most people to get into, and the adjustable foot pads made for a comfy row every time. 

At 7 feet long and 105 pounds, it’s not the easiest thing to move, though it can be stored upright so we’ll give it a 3 out of 5 for portability. 

One highlight feature of this rower is its weight capacity of 507 pounds, it can also accommodate users up to 6 feet, 8 inches which is pretty impressive. We’re rating it a 5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics.

Dimensions 84”L x 27”W x 48”H
Stored upright: 35”L X 27”W X 83” H
Weight 105 lbs.
Weight capacity507 lbs.
Height limit 6’8”

Aviron Strong Series Rower Video Review

Rowing Machines for Weight Loss

Rowing machines often don’t get the hype they deserve, but when it comes to gym equipment, they bring quite a few benefits.

Good For

Rowing machines are an excellent option for a total-body, low-impact workout. They’re also great for the busy athlete with a tight schedule. In a short amount of time, you can get your heart rate up and work multiple muscle groups at once.

Not Recommended For

Rowing machines are generally used for all types of people, though those with severe back issues might find the lack of a backrest to be a deal-breaker.

bells of steel blitz air rower seat

Muscles Used

The best part about a rowing stroke is that it engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously. Every rep activates your lower body, upper body, and core muscles, giving you a full-body workout in one session. If you’re deciding between a rowing workout vs a running workout, you might consider the calorie burn you’ll get with a rower, which is a bit less than on a treadmill.

Estimated Calories Burned in 30 Minutes

Here is a basic breakdown of how many calories a 185-pound person can expect to burn in 30 minutes on a rowing machine, according to Harvard Health:

ActivityPaceCalories Burned
RowingModerate294
RowingVigorous440

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: Peloton Bike

Good for: People who like a little competition and variety in workout routine

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike

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GGR Score: 4.33

Product Highlights

  • 21.5″ touchscreen for immersive training
  • Live classes and on-demand cycling sessions
  • Leaderboard-style competition
  • Adjustable screen, seat, and handlebars
  • 5-megapixel front-facing camera
  • Bluetooth connectivity

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Immersive experience
  • Access to thousands of classes, challenges, and a large variety of workout options
  • Compact footprint
  • Sleek design
  • Financing options
  • “Try before you buy” option

Cons

  • Disappointing warranty
  • Membership is required to use bike
  • Expensive
  • Shipping is not included

Bottom Line

One of the more expensive options for virtual biking, the Peloton Bike is designed to be an all-in-one fitness solution on a high-quality cardio machine. You’re paying not only for the bike, but the unique training experience it makes accessible from the comfort of your home.

In terms of hardware, there’s not much separating the Peloton Bike from many of the other best exercise bikes. What makes it the best for weight loss is the thousands of live and on-demand workout classes that made it a household name. 

One of our GGR testers, Allie, has been following Peloton’s Senior Instructor Alex Toussaint for more than two years. “If I don’t feel like I’m being pushed, I am more than likely going to quit or not exert myself, which is why I choose his classes every single time,” Allie says in our Peloton Bike review. ‘It can’t be easy to try and motivate people and have energy that radiates to a virtual audience, but he does just a phenomenal job.” 

using touchscreen peloton bike

It’s no surprise we’re rating Peloton’s programming a 5 out of 5. If you didn’t know, the Peloton app contains a lot more than studio bike classes—you can also find instructors for running, yoga, meditation, and more. 

On top of the app, you’ll also have to buy Delta-compatible cycling cleats,along with buying (or renting) the actual bike. Is it a wise investment? We think so. Peloton has had its fair share of hardware issues over the years, including pedals breaking off, but we haven’t noticed any issues in our three years of owning the bike. 

We would’ve liked to see the 297-pound weight capacity bumped up to 350 pounds, but the powder coated steel frame and 38-pound flywheel is enough to earn it a 4 out of 5 on the durability scale. 

Nicole says the magnetic resistance is pretty challenging, and that each twist of the knob produces a noticeable difference in tension. There are 100 levels of magnetic resistance, which is quieter and more low-maintenance than friction resistance. The seat isn’t the most comfortable, though it can be swapped out,  but it can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically. The handlebars, however, can only be moved vertically, knocking the customization score to a 4 out of 5.

Dimensions 59” L X 53” H X 23” W
Weight 135 lbs.
Weight capacity297 lbs.
Height range4’11” to 6’4”
Resistance100 levels of magnetic resistance with manual knob

Peloton Bike Video Review

Exercise Bikes for Weight Loss

Indoor cycling classes brought stationary bikes to the forefront of cardiovascular training. Athletes of all fitness levels can incorporate an exercise bike into their home gym and workout routine.

RELATED: Stationary Bike Benefits

Good For 

Stationary bikes are great for people in the market for low-impact workouts that still get their heart rate pumping. Since exercise bikes allow you to adjust your resistance and speed, your training is entirely customizable to your fitness level and desired intensity. So, beginners, professionals, and everyone in between can benefit from a bike workout.

Not Recommended For

The only people who might not like stationary bikes are those who find pedaling in place to be tedious. Yes, you can adjust the incline/decline on some exercise bikes but even that doesn’t fully replicate the feeling of biking with the wind blowing in your face. But again, that’s a personal thing and you might be fine with pedaling in place.

Muscles Used

If you’re wondering what muscles does an elliptical work, the pedaling motion on a stationary bike engages your calves, hamstrings, and quads. It can also work your glutes, core, and back muscles. If you want to sneak in a little upper body work, adjusting your hand position on the handlebars can help engage your shoulders, biceps, and triceps.

Coop using the S22i cycle best home gym equipment

Estimated Calories Burned in 30 Minutes

Here is a basic breakdown of how many calories a 185-pound person can expect to burn in 30 minutes on a stationary bike, according to Harvard Health:

ActivityPaceCalories Burned
CyclingModerate294
CyclingVigorous441

Best Stair Climber for Weight Loss: CLMBR

Best Stair Climber for Weight Loss

CLMBR

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GGR Score: 3.85

Product Highlights

  • Immersive technology
  • Full-body, low-impact workout
  • Small footprint
  • Bluetooth-enabled

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Immersive technology
  • Low-impact
  • Full-body workout
  • Small footprint
  • Quiet operation
  • Ergonomic, adjustable dumbbells
  • Bluetooth-enabled
  • Caster transport wheels

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Membership required for access to classes

Bottom Line

The CLMBR is an interesting investment for someone looking for an efficient, functional and interactive workout experience that’s high-intensity in nature but low-impact on the joints. That said, its price tag may make you pause.

The CLMBR is an easy choice for the best stair climber for weight loss due to its engaging interactive workouts, 11 resistance settings, and the fact that it can accommodate users up to 7 feet tall.

“Although the foot pedals were comfortable for me, a woman’s size 9, you may feel differently if you have larger feet,” Caroline Lubinsky, a former collegiate and semi-pro women’s soccer player, says in our CLMBR review. “Certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly is a men’s size 15, and his feet dwarfed the pedals in a comical way.” Still, it earns a 4 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics due to its adjustable handles and three grip positions: over, under-hand, and neutral.

woman using clmbr

RELATED: Best Stair Climber

Like most of the machines on this list, CLMBR is included largely due to its programming. There are two paid options: Metrics+ and Premium. Metrics+ allows you to track your workout history and modify their home screen with recent accomplishments for $9.99 per month. The Premium is $39.99 per month and, in our opinion, a 5 out of 5 for its programming because you get access to hundreds of on-demand classes, competitions, and guided climbs.

“The workouts remind me of Peloton classes,” Caroline says. “All of the climbs (at least the ones I took) are situated within a studio, with various high-energy instructors gabbing away to pass the time and guide you.”

Dimensions 35″ L x 32″ W x 88″ H
Weight 180 lbs.
Weight capacity350 lbs.
Max user height7′
ResistanceDiscrete magnetic resistance; 11 settings

CLMBR Video Review

Stair Climbers for Weight Loss

Stair climbers aren’t often found in home gyms due to their size and price, but if you have the space and budget for one it could be a great way to shake up your cardio weight loss routine. Stair climbers, as their name suggests, are machines that mimic walking up a flight up stairs, except the stairway keeps continuing until you’re done with your workout.

Good For

Stair climbers are good for people who want a low-impact workout routine that’s still effective in improving your overall cardiovascular fitness while strengthening your lower-body muscle groups. Alternatively, if you’re someone who hikes or does a lot of climbing a stair climber can help simulate such situations from the comfort of your own home. They’re also great if you’re looking for a non-traditional workout routine.

Not Recommended For

Stair climbers are not recommended for people with low ceilings and taller people.

close up hand on handlebar clmbr

Muscles Used

A stair climber uses a number of lower-body muscles, like the glutes, calves, hamstrings, quads, and core.

Estimated Calories Burned in 30 Minutes

Here is a basic breakdown of how many calories a 185-pound person can expect to burn in 30 minutes on a stair climber, according to Harvard Health:

ActivityPaceCalories Burned
Stair step machineModerate252

How We Chose the Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss

We have a team of cardio fanatics: Many of our writers and editors have run 5Ks to full marathons, completed triathlons, hiked mountains, and easily hit those 10K steps a day. We took a discerning eye to the machines above, testing them for factors like:

  • Functionality: How well does the machine actually work when in use?
  • Durability: Can these machines withstand a lot of use? Do they have high weight capacities?
  • Programming: Are there built-in programs that target factors like calorie burn?
  • Value: Is the machine worth the price tag?

How to Pick The Best Cardio Machine for Weight Loss

Here are a few helpful pointers to make sure you pick the right machine for your weight loss goals.

  • Budget: Pick a machine you can afford. Also, look for financing options and trial periods.
  • Fitness and Weight Loss Goals: The machine you pick might be based on what you’re trying to accomplish. For example, someone who’s trying to lose weight to run a 10K would be better off with a treadmill than an exercise bike.
  • Size: Pick a machine that fits in your home gym.
  • Features: Do you want pre-programmed workouts? What about adjustability and customization?

Other Cardio Equipment For Weight Loss That We’ve Tested

Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? The Garage Gym Reviews team has tested dozens, if not hundreds of cardio machines for weight loss. Here are just a few of the various roundups we’ve done for treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and more.

How Many Calories Are Burned in a 30-Minute Workout?

The exact number of calories burned in a 30-minute workout depends on your body weight, your training intensity, and what type of cardio workout you’re doing. Harvard Medical School released a wide-ranging study showing the average caloric burn for people weighing 125, 155, and 185 pounds with exercises done at a moderate intensity.

125-lb person155-lb person185-lb person
Treadmill*240 calories288 calories336 calories
Elliptical270 calories324 calories378 calories
Stair climber180 calories216 calories252 calories
Exercise Bike210 calories252 calories294 calories
Rowing 210 calories252 calories294 calories

* Based on 5-mile-per-hour pace

Best Cardio Workouts for Weight Loss

Let’s say you’ve decided on a machine but you’re unsure what to do with it—we have good news! Garage Gym Reviews has started writing some of the best cardio weight loss routines thanks to our team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and competitive endurance athletes.

The Takeaway

If your fitness goals include weight loss, a cardio machine can be a great addition to your gym equipment. Whether you add a treadmill, rowing machine, elliptical, or stationary bike, your training options are endless. A few things to consider when shopping for a piece of equipment to help you reach your goals:

  • Treadmills can be an excellent choice for all fitness levels.
  • Rowing machines incorporate upper and lower body muscles, providing a workout for your entire body. 
  • Rowing machines, ellipticals, and stationary bikes are known for their low-impact mechanisms. 
  • Working with an online personal trainer through a machine‘s streaming platform can be highly motivating and beneficial. 
  • Weight loss involves more lifestyle choices than just your workouts. Well-balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and physical activity are all part of the weight-loss equation.

Cardio Machines for Weight Loss FAQ

Is 30 minutes of cardio a day enough to lose weight?

If done at a challenging pace and paired with proper nutrition, then yes 30 minutes of cardio a day is enough to put you in a caloric deficit and help achieve weight loss.

Is the elliptical or treadmill better for weight loss?

Data published by Harvard Health shows that 30 minutes on an elliptical burns 324 calories for the average 155-pound human. In comparison, the same person burns 360 calories while running on a treadmill for 30 minutes at a 10-minute mile pace. Since the calorie burn is comparable, choose the one that best meets your fitness needs and motivates you to get moving!

Can an elliptical burn belly fat?

Yes, you can see a reduction in belly fat when consistently using an elliptical machine. However, it is impossible to target fat-burning to a specific body area. Consistent exercise paired with well-balanced nutrition and adequate sleep is the best way to reach fat loss. You can‘t outrun or out-pedal poor nutrition and crummy sleep.

What is the most effective machine for cardio?

This is a tricky question because the answer will be different from person to person. Just like no two bodies are the same, no two fitness journeys are the same. Different people will respond to different equipment and training programs. The most effective cardio machine is the one that keeps you motivated and eager to rise to the challenge.

How much cardio should I do to lose weight?

General guidelines from experts like the Mayo Clinic state that you should get 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week. However, people trying to lose weight may opt to do more.

Losing weight is a “simple” formula of burning more calories than you consume. However, losing weight is anything but simple. To lose 1 pound in a week, you generally need to cut your daily caloric intake by 500 calories through both what you eat and what you burn through exercise.

For context, Harvard Health notes that a 155-pound person running 12 MPH for 30 minutes will burn around 288 calories. That’s more than half of that 500-calorie deficit. Making dietary changes is what typically drives the most significant weight loss.

All that said, doing cardio for 30 to 45 minutes a day, for four to six sessions a week, is a great starting place for moving the needle, as long as you combine it with proper nutrition.

Further reading

Warm Up, Work Out, Rehab With the Best Resistance Bands on Amazon (2024) Cover Image
Warm Up, Work Out, Rehab With the Best Resistance Bands on Amazon (2024)

Have you ever wondered what the best resistance bands on Amazon are? Read this round-up to learn about the resistance band sets to add to your home gym. Read more

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 vs Sole F80: An In-Depth Comparison Cover Image
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 vs Sole F80: An In-Depth Comparison

Check out this NordicTrack 1750 vs Sole F80 comparison to see which treadmill will win as the best. Read more

Learn To Z Press: Build Upper-Body Strength and Muscle While Sitting Cover Image
Learn To Z Press: Build Upper-Body Strength and Muscle While Sitting

The Z press is sure to turn heads, but this unconventional overhead press alternative is an absolute beast! Check out our expert guide and find out why! Read more

Best Pre-Workout for CrossFit (2024): Crush WODs and Smash PRs with These 9 Pre-Workout Options Cover Image
Best Pre-Workout for CrossFit (2024): Crush WODs and Smash PRs with These 9 Pre-Workout Options

Our fitness experts found the best pre-workouts for CrossFit by trying more than 50 different pre-workout supplements. Read more