Is your treadmill causing pain in your knees and joints? Have you considered changing your treadmill training to a low-impact exercise with the best treadmill elliptical combo machine? Many people swap out their treadmill training for the elliptical machine because of problems with joint pain. However, many people feel that an elliptical machine does not provide the same amount of fat-burning potential as a treadmill.
Hybrid training equipment takes the best of treadmills and elliptical machines, combining them into an effective, low-impact training solution. We have put together this review of the best hybrid training systems of 2018. If you enjoy your treadmill or elliptical training, give a hybrid trainer a try the next time you hit the gym.
Best Treadmill Elliptical Combo Machines #1: Bowflex TC100 TreadClimber Treadmill
The Bowflex TC100 is designed for a low-impact training session that brings efficient and effective results. This leading innovation from Bowflex represents a new era of cardiovascular training equipment that features 3 in 1 design.
Get the best of a treadmill, elliptical machine, and stair climber all in one unit. The trainer works with two separate treadles that feature moving belts. These treadles have an up and down motion, creating a unique workout experience.
With speeds of up to 4.0 mph, the Bowflex hybrid trainer is ideal for walkers that are looking for a different training solution. The console features a handy USB port that allows you to charge your devices during your workout.
Advantages
- Well priced for a hybrid machine at $2,100.
- 3 in 1 design that burns up to 2.5 times more calories than a standard treadmill.
- Compact design with small footprint.
- Customizable options that include two user profiles and personal data storage for your workouts.
- Roomy console with a holder for your smart device.
- Oversized cup holders.
- Contact grip sensors.
- 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- 2-Year warranty.
Disadvantages
- No cooling fans.
- Could have more entertainment options such as a full audio offering and more workout programs.
The Final Verdict
While we would not recommend this hybrid trainer to runners, it is well suited to those trainees that are looking for a low-impact workout. The 3 in 1 trainer offers an intense workout that burns calories quickly. The price tag is affordable; we just wish they had a better deal on the warranty.
Best Treadmill Elliptical Combo Machines #2: Bowflex Max Trainer M7
Regarding an effective workout, the Bowflex Max trainer M7 will reach every muscle group in your body. There is virtually zero impact on your joints, and this hybrid trainer will bring you results fast with its preprogrammed workouts.
The design a build of this hybrid trainer is sturdy, with quality components and electronics. The Max Trainer M7 is designed for short, intense workouts.
Advantages
- Zero-impact on joints.
- Premium pedals and grips.
- 20 resistance levels with preset workouts.
- Syncs with the Bowflex Fitness app.
- Wireless heart rate monitor.
- Eight-week daily burn subscription included with purchase.
- Water bottle holder.
- Media console.
- Compact size.
Disadvantages
- Not easy to assemble.
- Warranty could be better.
The Final Verdict
The Bowflex Max Trainer M7 is another hybrid trainer that breaks the mold of traditional cardiovascular training equipment. Its zero-impact workout saves your joints and is ideal for those people recovering from injury, as well as the elderly. This machine may be a bit pricey, but the performance is worth it.
Best Treadmill Elliptical Combo Machines #3: ProForm CardioHIIT Elliptical Trainer
If you are a serious athlete that demands the utmost from your training program, then the ProForm CardioHIIT Pro is a fantastic machine to help you achieve your fitness and physique goals.
The trainer delivers a total body workout, without placing any impact on your joints. The CardioHIIT Trainer Pro uses an elliptical path that is more vertical than other machines and uses an elliptical-stepper hybrid.
Advantages
- Total body, low-impact training.
- Low-impact training.
- Reduces the risk of exercise-related injury.
- Club quality performance.
- 26 levels of resistance.
- Multi-grip handlebars.
- Cushioned pedals for comfort.
- 34 preset workout programs.
- Wireless pulse contact and monitors included.
- 10” touchscreen with an enabled web browser.
- Device compatible with 2” speakers.
- Tablet holder.
- Compact size.
- Two-speed cooling fan.
- Warranty on Parts, frame, and labor.
Disadvantages
- HIIT does not suit everyone.
- Consult your doctor before working out on this machine to ensure you are in good health.
The Final Verdict
High-Intensity Interval Training has fast become one of the world’s most popular and effective training systems. The ProForm CardioHIIT Trainer Pro is a machine for advanced trainees that are looking to increase their levels of physical fitness. It’s not recommended for older people or children as HIIT workouts can be very demanding.
Best Treadmill Elliptical Combo Machines #4: Weslo Crosswalk 5.2T Treadmill
Most of the treadmill elliptical combos on this list are elliptical machines with a treadmill function. The Weslo Crosswalk 5.2T Treadmill is a treadmill with elliptical functions. A subtle difference, but certainly worth noting.
This treadmill doesn’t have the biggest motor, but can still reach speeds of 10mph. The elliptical handles turn this standard treadmill workout into a full-body workout. The treadmill is also able to be folded up after use, which can save you a lot of space. With wheels to help you transport it to different parts of the house.
There is also a heart rate monitor and pre-set programs that you can follow. There is also an incline setting, though it is not as thorough as many treadmills.
Advantages
- Good quality treadmill with elliptical function
- Top speed of 10mph
- Incline settings
- Foldable
- Excellent value for money
Disadvantages
- Not a particularly powerful motor
- Only two incline positions
- Max user weight of 250lbs is too low
Wrapping up the Review
Hybrid training systems are a new revolution in cardio training equipment. If you find that you don’t have the joint health to run, then you may discover tremendous benefit in using a hybrid training system that takes the best of both treadmills and elliptical machines.
These systems are easy to set up in your home and have a compact footprint. Set it up wherever you like, even in front of the TV and catch a workout while you watch your favorite show.
If we had to pick a clear winner of this review, the Bowflex TC100 TreadClimber Treadmill is the pick of the bunch and would make for a fantastic home hybrid training system.
Image: Bowflex.com
