The best exercise equipment for losing weight at home: an alternative to going to the gym

Choosing the right home exercise machine

All currently existing devices are divided into two groups: strength and cardio. If you are interested in which exercise machines are most suitable for weight loss, then we advise you to pay attention to cardio options. If your goal is not just to lose fat, but to convert it into muscle, then strength models are more suitable. When choosing suitable options, be sure to study the attached instructions and pay attention to the following factors:

• The right time for training. If you have enough free time, then you should choose a device that lasts at least an hour.
• Muscle groups involved. Remember, the more groups work during the training process, the more effective the weight loss process will be.

• Possible contraindications. Be sure to study the list of possible contraindications before purchasing if you do not want to cause irreparable harm to your health.
• In addition to the above factors, you need to adequately assess the condition of your figure and the presence of extra pounds.

In order not to make a mistake and make the right choice, we will consider the most effective exercise machines for weight loss.

Which exercise machine is best for weight loss?

The problem of choosing sports equipment often becomes a stumbling block for those who first decided to take up physical exercises in order to get their figure in order. And in this article we will try to find out all the possible advantages and disadvantages of the most popular home exercise equipment.

Why homemade? The modern pace of life leaves little time for outdoor exercise or going to the gym. Today, people spend at least 9 hours at work (including lunch breaks); in megacities, they have to spend another hour and a half on the way to work/home.

Opportunities to run or ride a bike are not always available, especially in densely populated cities. Weight loss machines are available in fitness clubs and gyms, but those who live within walking distance of these establishments can be considered lucky. Otherwise, you will also have to spend at least half an hour on the way there and back. But there are also a lot of household chores...

It turns out that the easiest way to practice is at home. And here the question comes to the fore, which exercise machines are the most effective for losing weight.

Many people want to hear a direct and unambiguous answer, which in general is not true, because when choosing sports equipment one should be guided by many factors, from cost to contraindications of a particular home exercise machine.

That is why the answer to the question of which exercise machines to exercise in order to lose weight will be detailed. But before we begin a detailed description of exercise equipment, their pros and cons, here are the general rules for using home sports equipment:

• the main principle is to train without long breaks, 3-4 times/week, the duration of training should be set at a minimum of 45 minutes, preferably twice as long;
• do not expect a noticeable effect tomorrow: even if you know which exercise machine you can use to lose weight faster, tangible results will appear no earlier than in a month;
• An important rule for middle-aged and older people is to ensure that the body does not become dehydrated; if necessary, drink water directly during training;
• try to conduct classes while breathing as deeply as possible - with a lack of oxygen, fat burning, like all energy processes in cells, occurs more slowly;
• if your goal is to lose weight, you should abandon weight training equipment in favor of cardio equipment;
• do not overuse excessive loads, especially at the initial stage of familiarization with the simulator; remember: training programs are selected strictly individually, it is advisable to coordinate them with a doctor.

Training is training, but you shouldn’t forget about a balanced diet: you have the opportunity to count both the calories spent during training and those received with food. An excellent result would be a loss of 1-3 kg/month. Less is bad, more is also bad.

Elliptical model for weight loss

Experts agree that this machine is the most effective tool for getting rid of extra pounds.

• According to the principle of its effect, it completely imitates proper running, which is somewhat similar to skiing.
• During the training, the degree of harmful load on the joints is minimal, which makes the equipment suitable for training after all kinds of injuries, injuries or during the rehabilitation period.
• For any person, a half-hour workout using this gadget will help you get rid of 350 calories.

Treadmill DFC SINTRA Red T760R

The electric cardio machine DFC SINTRA Red T760R is ideal for full workouts for weight loss at home. A powerful engine, a wide, comfortable running surface and a shock-absorbing system allow people of different weights and varying degrees of fitness to train, that is, even beginners. The features of the DFC SINTRA Red T760R electric treadmill include the following key points:

• automatic tilt angle;
• the presence of built-in speakers that allow you to produce music tracks;
• the ability to connect additional gadgets and devices via mp3 and USB connectors;
• two sets of heart rate monitors are built into the handrails, which allow you to monitor your heart rate during cardio training;
• the presence of “quick buttons” on the handrails of the simulator, which allow you to turn on or stop the treadmill belt, as well as buttons that change the speed of the belt.

The exercise machine has built-in programs for active weight loss, so it is suitable for girls and men who have set a goal - to get rid of extra pounds, burn fat and get into better physical shape.

Treadmill

One of the most popular aerobic exercise machines is the treadmill. Such devices can be found in any rocking chair.

• To start training on weight loss machines, you just need to turn on the road, select the desired speed and angle on the information board and then press the “start” button.
• You can choose the intensity of the load individually for yourself. This depends on the angle of inclination of the moving web, and on the speed at which it moves. For people who are just starting to master training, experts advise starting with the simplest steps that would imitate normal walking.
• With each new lesson, its speed and intensity should be increased.

Important! Remember that a sharp increase in the level of stress on the body can harm your health, so increase the intensity of your exercise slowly and consistently.

stationary bike

This weight loss machine at home is ideal for those who prefer cycling in the summer. It will be the key to fast and very effective weight loss.

• According to the type of person’s seating position, it can be horizontal or vertical.
• In all respects, the vertical one resembles an ordinary device, only without wheels.
• The horizontal model is intended for people who have been diagnosed with spinal problems.
• When choosing, you should pay close attention to models in which the resistance is automatically adjusted and the degree of load of the trainees is monitored. The bike automatically adjusts the time spent, distance covered and speed limit.

Important! Nowadays, high-quality models have additional functions such as a heart rate counter, a bottle holder, a counting of calories burned and many others.

Exercise machine for losing weight at home: which one is better?

All types of cardio equipment allow the use of different exercises and programs; during training you do not need to focus on what movement to perform, which allows you to combine work on the apparatus with watching TV or listening to music.

Before choosing the best exercise machine for weight loss at home, first finalize your priorities. For some, the main problem is being overweight, others are simply afraid of the appearance of cellulite on the thighs, and still others want to tighten their buttocks. There are three categories of exercise equipment used at home: strength, cardio and compact training equipment. And if the former are usually used by athletes, and the third are not able to provide the proper level of targeted physical activity, then cardio equipment belongs to the category of equipment that is perfectly adapted for the mass consumer and enjoys corresponding popularity.

So, we list the most effective exercise machines for weight loss:

• ellipsoid (orbitrek);
• treadmill;
• exercise bike;
• rowing machine;
• stepper

No matter what physical activity you engage in, unless you work hard (but also don’t slack off), fat cells begin to be used by the body as the main source of energy only after 30-45 minutes. Those who exercise on cardio equipment and want to lose weight should definitely take this into account.

Let's take a closer look at each of these shells.

Treadmill

This home exercise machine for weight loss can replace walking and jogging, but in walking mode, be prepared for the fact that the number of calories burned will be relatively small. Including running in your training program (usually in the initial or final stages) for at least 10 minutes will dramatically increase the effectiveness of this simulator. An even more significant effect will be achieved by wearing a warm tracksuit, thermal underwear, or wrapping problem areas with film, but this must be done with caution and be sure to consume water during exercise in order to prevent dehydration, which can lead to serious stress on the cardiovascular system.

Advantages of a treadmill:

• the ability to adjust the speed of the web;
• increasing the load by raising the track at a small angle;
• with moderate exercise – strengthening of the cardiovascular system.

Flaws:

• takes up a lot of space;
• heavy (it may be difficult to move to another place);
• noisy;
• are expensive (from $150 to $2000 and above).

Contraindications: lung diseases (asthma, tuberculosis), musculoskeletal system, joint problems (especially knees), varicose veins.

Exercise bike

Many women are convinced that this is the most effective weight loss exercise machine for home. From the point of view of the number of calories burned per unit of time, this statement can be called controversial (see the table at the end of the article). However, overall, this is a really good cardio machine that distributes the level of load fairly evenly across most muscle groups.

Advantages:

• possibility of adjusting the degree of load;
• relatively compact dimensions;
• the ability to adjust the seat height;
• excellent anaerobic characteristics.

Flaws:

• heavy;
• is expensive (models with magnetic drive - from $200);
• To effectively burn calories, you need to exercise for at least an hour.
• insufficient load on the muscles of the shoulder girdle.

Contraindications:

Problems with the spine (osteochondrosis, curvature, intervertebral hernia), serious diseases of the cardiovascular system and lungs.

If you are in doubt which exercise machine is more effective for losing weight, the exercise bike is far from a leader in this regard, but it is not an outsider either.

Ellipsoid

The claim that this is the most effective exercise machine for weight loss is not without foundation. From the point of view of the number of calories burned, this is not an absolute leader, but taking into account all possible factors, the Orbitrek can really be called the most successful cardio exercise machine.

Advantages:

• almost all muscle groups of the body are involved, including the shoulder girdle;
• combines the capabilities of an exercise bike, treadmill and stepper;
• training on it is not boring;
• allows you to burn a sufficient amount of fat deposits.

Flaws:

• takes up a lot of space;
• expensive (models with an electromagnetic drive start at $400).

Contraindications

Those who have diseases of the respiratory/cardiovascular systems should not actively use the orbitrek; use caution if you have diabetes.

elliptical training program

If you haven’t yet decided which exercise machines you should use to lose weight, know that in terms of popularity, the Orbitrack, according to surveys, is significantly ahead of other cardio equipment.

Stepper

If you ask an athlete which exercise machine is best for weight loss at home, he will definitely mention a stepper among the first. It actually burns quite a lot of calories because it simulates walking up stairs. It is clear that it will not be popular with older people. You shouldn’t expect any miracles from it in terms of strengthening the muscles of the upper half of the body.

Useful to know: exercise program on a stepper for weight loss

Advantages:

• small size, light weight;
• affordable price;
• the ability to effectively burn calories.

Flaws:

• no handles to maintain balance;
• inability to program the simulator;
• monotony of training;
• The load on the stepper falls only on the legs.

Contraindications: pathologies of the spine, arterial hypertension, pregnancy, diseases of the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver.

As you can see, this exercise machine for losing weight at home has quite a lot of limitations, so it is recommended mainly for the younger generation.

Rowing machine

All of the above equipment is focused mainly on the development of leg muscles (thigh and gluteal). The only exercise machines for losing weight in the abdomen and sides are rowing machines; they also do an excellent job of training the muscles of the shoulder girdle. However, in terms of the number of calories burned, this is a solid average, although in terms of the level of load on the body it is considered one of the leaders.

Advantages:

• good load on the upper body;
• relatively compact dimensions;
• the fastest way to lose extra pounds.

Flaws:

• high price;
• no load on the legs;
• puts a lot of strain on the lungs and heart;
• monotony of the training process.

Contraindications: spinal diseases, heart/lung problems

Foot stepper

Most often, steppers are used to lose weight on legs. These models are based on the principle of simulating climbing stairs. It will be the optimal solution for those who have been diagnosed with problems with their feet or knees while moving. To ensure that exercises on a stepper are as effective as possible, when choosing a model, pay attention to the stability of the device.

Rowing machine

Often this type of equipment is not popular in the gym due to the complexity and labor-intensiveness of the exercises.

• Professional athletes know that labor intensity is an indicator of effectiveness. The effect of its use can only be compared to rowing on a full-fledged boat.
• The effort expended entails a rapid loss of extra pounds, after just a few weeks of training.
• The device actively uses the muscles of the lower and upper parts of the human body at the same time, and it is this fact that influences the positive effect.
• It’s interesting, but despite the sophisticated design, the simulator is quite safe. Modern models of rowing equipment are equipped with a ventilation system.

Elliptical trainer Proxima Furia iPRO FE-2552-ALBQ

Furia iPRO FE-2552-ALBQ is an innovative fitness equipment of the modern generation. Among the advantages of the model are technologies that ensure a smooth transition between load levels and do not interrupt the rhythm of the workout. In total, the simulator program offers 16 load levels. The elliptical trainer uses innovative technologies of a non-contact load system and systems that are responsible for switching these levels.

Despite the fact that the machine is also optimally suited for beginners, it is mostly designed for experienced users - for example, the model has an extended training step length of 54 cm, which provides complete freedom of movement during training. Suitable even for adult women and men with above average height.

The silent and smooth operation of the exercise machine will help you comfortably carry out even an intense workout for weight loss. The smoothness and softness of the elliptical movements reduces the load and pressure on the joints, ankles, knees and spine, providing an optimal shock-absorbing effect.

Overall, this is a reliable and comfortable exercise machine that is designed for many years of use. For its production, high-alloy steel and high-quality, durable engineering plastic are used.

The elliptical trainer has 20 effective weight loss programs that can be customized to suit the individual needs of users. You can configure program options using a 5-inch diagonal color LCD screen. You can also monitor your training data on the screen:

• training time;
• what program is currently being used;
• heart rate;
• how many calories were burned during the workout.

On the body of the simulator there is a USB connector to which you can connect gadgets and charge mobile devices, as well as a holder for a water bottle.

A powerful and reliable elliptical trainer is suitable for intense workouts of varying difficulty, which can be done comfortably at home.

The model is intended for both professional athletes and beginners who do not have much experience in physical training. At the same time, for the price range in which the simulator is offered, this is one of the best options. Using an elliptical trainer, you can work out different muscle groups and achieve effective fat burning during exercise. The silent, smooth operation of the device allows you to carry out exercises comfortably, as well as reduce the load on your joints, knees and spine. The manufacturer's warranty on the machine is two years, and the frame and flywheel are covered for five years.

Additional options

If you decide to watch your figure and choose a device for home, then you should not limit yourself to exercising exclusively on it. Today, the most popular equipment that is best suited for training at home and in the gym:

• chest expander;
• jump rope;
• rubber;
• hula hoop, etc.

Equipment that will help you lose belly fat

These home weight loss exercise machines will not only bring you the desired weight loss, but also take up little space, are budget-friendly and easy to use.

• Hula Hup. This is an ordinary hoop spinning around the stomach. Hula hoop exercises will help you get rid of extra centimeters on your waist, and some models are equipped with massage rollers that get rid of cellulite.
• Fitball. This is a fitness ball that has recently gained universal recognition among sports fans of all ages. Exercises with a fitball are indicated for people with spinal problems, for pregnant women and people during rehabilitation after injuries.

• Rotation disk. Using the disk is simple and does not require additional material costs. Its use is suitable for losing weight on the sides and strengthening the abdominal muscles. The weight loss program using a disc involves only 20-40 minutes of exercise per day.

Reviews from athletes

Reviews from people who exercise say that you can lose weight at home using exercise equipment no less effectively than in the gym.

• Galina is 26 years old. The problem of excess weight simply plagued me. I took the plunge and bought a treadmill. I started studying right away. And here’s the news, I find out that I’m pregnant, I had to stop training. But after giving birth, I realized that this is the most effective exercise machine for weight loss. This is especially true when you go outside just to walk with your child. And when my Alinka was sleeping, I was running. I must say, I gained minus 5 kg in three months. At the same time, she did not go hungry, as she was breastfeeding her daughter.

• Oksana 30 years old. I didn’t dare buy a simulator, since it’s not possible to fit it into a one-room apartment. They recommended a rotation disk, now I’m losing weight a lot, and there’s a lot of space left in the apartment.
• Irina is 35 years old. I splurged on an ellipsoid and was pleased with the purchase. It was cheaper in the online store, but I didn’t take the risk. Now I can study without leaving home.

Choose a device depending on your health, body shape, room dimensions and personal budget capabilities. If you follow some simple rules, you can lose extra pounds without problems or going to the gym.

Comparison of simulators

First, let's look at the most common exercise machines and energy consumption when exercising with them. Don’t forget that the number of calories burned also depends on the intensity of the activity, so we will give approximate numbers from start to finish.

Cardio exercise only produces results with long-term training, since the active fat burning process starts after 20 minutes of exercise. Therefore, if you purchase a machine for short workouts, you will not soon notice changes in your figure. The optimal duration of classes is 30-50 minutes, depending on the level of endurance.

At first glance, everything is very simple - after all, logically, the most effective exercise machine for tightening your figure will be the one that burns the most calories. However, there are other features to consider when purchasing. For example, the traumatic nature of the simulator and contraindications for exercising with it. To eliminate errors when choosing, let’s consider each option from the table in more detail.

Interesting: Exercises for a flat stomach and thin waist