Not everyone loves hitting the gym for cardio workouts. It can be grueling and difficult to muster enthusiasm on days when you’re already feeling a little worse for wear. If you struggle to get in your daily cardio, finding a workout that you actually look forward to will make all the difference—especially if you find a routine you can do at home. There are tons of home cardio options out there, from running to rowing to cycling, and many cardio machines even include a membership option that allows you to take instructor-led classes right from the comfort of your own home. Since there are so many different types of machines out there, we’ve rounded up our favorites to help you choose the one that’s right for you.
- Peloton Bike Starter
There’s a reason Peloton bikes have earned a legion of devoted followers: they’re a great way to get in tons of sweaty cardio at home and actually enjoy it—while building a sense of community with fellow riders, no less. This starter kit comes with everything you need to begin your daily workout classes. It includes the bike, cycling shoes, dumbbells, and a bike mat. The large screen allows you to follow along with live and on-demand cycling classes, as well as Pilates, barre, and more.
- Mirror Pro
If you only have enough space to choose between a couch or a treadmill, we bet—and encourage—that you choose the couch. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still get in a great workout at home.
The Mirror Pro functions as a traditional mirror until turned on, then it becomes a personal trainer, chock full of great classes like boot camp, boxing, dance, and more. You also have the option of adding personal training to the equation for just $40 per session.
- Rower
Rowing is a low-impact way to get your heart rate up, strengthen your core, and improve your endurance without causing undue wear and tear on your joints. This rowing machine by Hydrow has a sleek design, and large touchscreen, and even has one-on-one coaching sessions available with purchase, which can help you improve your form and efficiency.
It also has live and on-demand workouts, journeys that allow you to virtually row through bodies of water, and even boasts mat-based classes like yoga and Pilates.
- SF-E905 Elliptical Machine
If you’re looking for a more affordable, low-impact option, this elliptical might be the perfect fit. It has eight levels of adjustable resistance, heart rate monitors, and an LCD screen that shows time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse. It’s super easy to set up, and it also has a relatively compact design that won’t take up too much space, making it ideal for smaller homes.
- T Series Treadmill
If you’re looking for a way to maintain your endurance at home on days when it’s too cold or rainy to jog outdoors, look no further. This treadmill is a midrange model that gives you a great range of features to help you get the most out of your workout while forgoing flashy screens.
It reaches up to 10 miles per hour and 10 percent incline, with manual controls allowing you to adjust these settings according to your preferences. The treadmill can also be connected to an iFit subscription, which will change your incline and resistance settings automatically according to which class you’re taking.
