Best Elliptical Machine for Tall Person | Long Stride Elliptical

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variable stride ellipticals

Cardio exercises, popularly known as aerobic routines, are an excellent workout for us tall guys. They are, however, easier to do with the best elliptical machine for tall person.

Sadly, not every elliptical machine suits tall guys. Most of them either have a shorter stride length or a lightweight flywheel, and that’s not what you want when you are tall.

Others have just a smaller weight capacity, making them unsuitable for your weight.

Plus, there are convenience features like a performance tracker, console, built-in pulse sensors, and adjustable resistance, which are never guaranteed despite being essential.

So, how do you find your ideal elliptical machine? Well, that’s where I come in, tall guy.

I’m going to provide you with a buying guide for the best elliptical machine. I’ll even review the finest elliptical machines that tall guys can get.

But before that, let’s answer these two essential questions:

  • Is an elliptical machine worth it?
  • What between an elliptical machine and a treadmill should I get?

In a hurry? Find my most recommended extra-long elliptical machines in the hotlist below.

Best Elliptical Machine for Tall Person: 6 Hottest Picks

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Is An Elliptical Machine Worth It?

When it comes to shedding weight and performing cardio routines, an elliptical machine is an excellent choice.

long stride elliptical

Yes, the treadmill does that and even more, but cost-wise, an elliptical machine is a cheaper option.

So, as far as getting fit on a budget is concerned, an elliptical machine is worth it.

Not forgetting;

An elliptical machine allows you to perform low-impact exercises suitable for someone recovering from an injury.

And when it comes to exercising, the best budget elliptical machine for tall person has a full-body effect. You not only get to lose weight, but you also boost your stamina and endurance.

So, yes, an elliptical machine is worth it.

Elliptical Machine Vs. Treadmill: What Suits You More?

Overall, you can use either a treadmill or an elliptical machine for the following reasons:

  • Weight loss
  • Aerobic exercise (cardio exercises)

So, when can you pick one over the other?

Let’s start with the elliptical machine; consider it when:

  • You have an injury but want to work out: That’s because elliptical workouts are low-impact.
  • You want a full-body workout: That’s because an elliptical machine engages your upper body, lower body, and every other part.
  • Your goal is to cross-train: Due to their movable handles, elliptical machines are exceptional in cross-training.
  • You want to save money: Compared to treadmills; elliptical machines are cheaper.
treadmill

And consider a treadmill when:

  • You want to train to race/run: That’s because treadmills come with a more extended running deck to encourage that.
  • You want to strengthen your legs: Given that treadmills are great for running, they are equally great for leg strengthening.
  • Your goal is to burn extra calories: You are likely to burn more calories on a treadmill than on an elliptical machine.
  • You’re more interested in high-intensity interval training (HIIT): A treadmill allows you to perform HIIT exercises better.

Buying Guide for the Best Elliptical Machine for Tall Person

Here are essential buying considerations for a tall person elliptical machine:

1. Stride Length

The stride length is undoubtedly the most crucial consideration when you are tall.

You want an elliptical machine with a longer stride length to match your height. Generally, the ideal stride length for tall guys is 18-25 inches, but you can always go for more.

2. Flywheel Weight

The flywheel is responsible for the smooth running of an elliptical machine. So, you’ve to consider its weight carefully.

As a tall guy, go for a flywheel that is at least 20 pounds. Preferably, it should weigh 30-50 pounds if you are 6-foot tall or taller.

That’ll ensure you don’t struggle or suffer vibrations when exercising.

variable stride ellipticals

3. Adjustable Incline

An incline simulates walking uphill, which is good for your muscles.

Overall, an adjustable incline is a must-have for a cross-trainer. It allows you to expose your muscles to a variety of workout routines.

Overall, it’s easy to draw motivation when working out on an elliptical machine with an adjustable incline.

4. Load Capacity

Elliptical machines come with load limits that you shouldn’t exceed. Generally, it’s a good idea to consider a load capacity that is more than what you weigh, by at least 50 pounds.

5. Adjustable Resistance

The best elliptical for tall person comes with adjustable resistance that makes pedaling difficult. Usually, the more you move from one resistance level to the next, the more challenging the workout becomes.

Simply put, it allows you to transition from low-intensity workouts to high-intensity workouts.

6. Other Considerations

Also, consider the following:

  • Adjustable pedals
  • LCD monitor
  • Preset workout programs
  • Grip handles and anti-slip footpads
  • Warranty
  • Data tracker
  • Pulse sensors

Types of Elliptical Machine for Tall Person (Plus Recommendations)

They include:

1. Front-Drive Elliptical Machine for Tall Person

Imagine climbing the stairs every morning, but much quicker! Well, that’s what using a front-drive elliptical feels like.

This workout machine comes with a front-positioned flywheel that makes you feel like you are climbing the stairs.

These elliptical machines usually are sleeker, lighter, and easy to get onto and out of. If you have knee issues, these are the elliptical machines to consider.

One top recommendation is the Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine.

About the Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine

The Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine is a fantastic choice for tall guys who prefer to track their performance. With its goal-track technology and dual-track LCD screen, you can conveniently track your workout goals.

This best elliptical for tall man comes with 22 workout programs that make your workout seamless.

Schwinn 430 has 20 resistance levels to offer you a wide selection of workout intensities.

What’s more, it enjoys a 20-inch stride length that allows you to work out without straining your knees.

Other impressive features include cushioned footplates and a high-speed drive system.

Key Features

  • 22 pre-installed workout programs
  • 20-level resistance
  • Dual-track LCD
  • 20-inch stride length
  • Cushioned footplate
  • High-speed drive system

2. Rear-Drive Elliptical Machine for Tall Person

While front-drive elliptical machines have their flywheel in the front, rear-drive elliptical machines have it at their back. In that case, these machines give you a similar experience to someone walking or jogging.

These elliptical machines mostly feature an adjustable incline and run quieter and smoother than most.

Due to the rear wheel’s position, you occupy a more central position, making the machines the best for more intense workouts.

One top recommendation is the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer.

About the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

The Fitness Reality E5500XL comes with an 18-inch stride length which saves you from a knee strain.

This elliptical with adjustable stride length enjoys a double transmission system that allows you to take smoother strides.

You can track your workout stats on its backlit LCD, and you have access to three workout settings.

Fitness Reality E5500XL has a 270-lbs capacity and comes with 24 resistance levels to offer you a wide range of workout intensities.

Other features include dual-action handlebars, 6-inch step-up height, hand-pulse sensors, and transport wheels.

Key Features

  • 18-inch stride length
  • 24-resistance levels
  • 270-lbs capacity
  • Double-transmission system
  • Backlit LCD
  • 6-inch step-up height

3. Center-Drive Elliptical Machine

Center-drive elliptical machines come with two small flywheels on both sides to allow you to take a more natural position.

They often come in a space-saving square design, making them the best for smaller spaces.

These elliptical machines also have the foot pedal closer to save you from the hip strain.

One top recommendation is the Body-Solid E300 Endurance Elliptical Trainer.

About the Body-Solid E300 Endurance Elliptical Trainer

Thanks to Endurance by Body-Solid’s patented center-drive design, the E300 has a natural 21 in. stride rate as well as a low center of gravity and a balanced frame to prevent rocking and swaying.

Dual-action upper and lower body movements are aided by premium handgrips and heart rate monitors to help users stay in their target ranges.

The Endurance by Body-Solid E300 Elliptical Trainer is programmable with six preset programs, manual mode and two user profiles.

The elliptical is designed to accommodate users up to 300 lbs. and features a step-up height of just 8 inches.

Additional features include an easy-to-use LED display, transport handles for movement around a facility, foot levelers for additional stability and a water bottle holder to help keep users hydrated throughout their workout.

The E300 also comes equipped with Heart Rate Contacts. The Heart Rate Contacts send your heart rate information to the console for processing. To measure Heart Rate, your hands need to firmly grasp the entire area of the Heart Rate Contact Sensors on both sides of the handlebar.

With compact construction and space efficient, it is ideal for smaller spaces.

Key Features

  • 24-inch wide footprint
  • 21-inch stride length
  • LED display
  • 2-inch pedal spacing
  • 300lbs capacity
  • Transport handle

4. Elliptical Cross Trainer

Elliptical cross trainers generally feature moving armrests that are connected to the flywheel. They look like stationary bikes, and so they allow you to work out while seated or in an incline position.

Not only are these machines great for full-body workouts, but also your cardio conditioning (heart health).

One top recommendation is the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer.

About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer

Sunny Health & Fitness doesn’t disappoint again when it comes to Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905.

This adjustable stride elliptical comes with eight resistance levels that allow you to step up your workout intensities.

Its digital monitor allows you to track your performance and the best part is that the monitor is pulse sensor-integrated to help you track your pulse.

With its anti-slip footpad and handlebars, and onboard stabilizers, you can work out safely.

Key Features

  • 8-level resistance
  • Pulse sensor-integrated digital monitor
  • Onboard stabilizers
  • Anti-slip handlebars
  • Anti-slip footpad

5. Dual Elliptical Trainer for Tall Person

Do you find it hard choosing between a stationary bike and an elliptical machine? Are you on a budget but would love to have both the exercise bike and the elliptical machine?

Well, it’s time you get a dual elliptical trainer. It’s an elliptical machine and stationary bike (exercise bike) combo) that’s great for working out at home.

Overall, these elliptical machines are best for those who hate working out while standing. By sitting on the exercise bike seat, you can work out even with knee pain or backache.

Since the elliptical trainer combines two machines, you do a variety of exercises daily.

One top recommendation is the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill.

About the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill is probably the best 2-in-1 home office cardio machine on the market today.

Whether you use it as an elliptical trainer or a stationary bike, the experience is fun, and the results are incredible.

Its seat and tension adjust easily for a more comfortable workout. Remarkably, the workout machine features a high-momentum fan blade and an electronic console for tracking your workout stats.

Moreover, it comes with built-in wheels for easy transportation.

Key Features

  • Elliptical and folding
  • Adjustable seat
  • Adjustable tension
  • High-momentum fan blade
  • Electronic console

6. Elliptical Glider

Unlike the other elliptical machines, elliptical gliders have no flywheel. Instead, they feature free-swinging pedals.

Since there is no flywheel, they are driven with your leg motion.

These elliptical machines are easier to use, hence beginner-friendly. Overall, the workout machines are best for a full-body workout.

They are foldable for convenient storage and transportation.

One top recommendation is the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Airwalk Elliptical Machine Glider.

About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Airwalk Elliptical Machine Glider

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 has so many exciting features that improve your aerobic exercises. It targets all body muscles, making it the best for aerobics.

You can track your stats on its LCD monitor.

With a 30inch stride length, you cannot wish for more as a tall guy. Whether you are training for cross country, running, dancing, or just walking, you’ll do it comfortably on Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902.

This long stride elliptical comes with a 220-pound capacity and enjoys a space-saving design.

Impressively, it features an adjustable abdominal pad that improves your workout comfort.

What’s more, it comes with non-slip pedals and non-slip handles.

Key Features

  • 30-inch stride length
  • 220-pound capacity
  • Space-saving design
  • LCD monitor
  • Non-slip pedals
  • Non-slip handles

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FAQs

1. What Is The Highest-Rated Elliptical Machine?

Below are the highest-rated variable stride ellipticals for tall people:

  1. Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine: Best Front-Drive Elliptical Machine
  2. Fitness Reality E5500XL Elliptical: Best Rear-Drive Elliptical Machine
  3. Body-Solid E300 Endurance Elliptical Trainer: Best Center-Drive Elliptical Machine
  4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905: Best Elliptical Cross Trainer
  5. Goplus Elliptical Fan Bike Dual Cross Trainer Machine : Best Dual Elliptical Trainer
  6. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902: Best Elliptical Glider

2. How Much Height Clearance Do I Need For An Elliptical?

It is best if you don’t hit the ceiling when working out on an elliptical machine. In that case, there should be at least 20 inches between the ceiling and your head.

3. Is Elliptical Good For Upper Body?

Working out on an elliptical machine engages your upper body just as much as the lower body.

The secret, however, for exercising your upper body more is improving the resistance and distributing your body weight more evenly.

You can also do it by pumping your arms as fast as you move your legs.

4. How Old Do I Have To Be To Use An Elliptical?

Most elliptical machines come with a minimum age limit of 12 years. That means that elliptical machines are generally bigger for kids who are yet to reach their teenage years.

5. Can I Do Elliptical Every Day?

Your body deserves to rest in between the week. You cannot expect to work out continually, even on an elliptical machine. So, rest at least one day a week for the best results.

6. Is An Elliptical Better Than A Treadmill?

If your goal is to recover from an injury, exercise your heart, or shed weight, an elliptical machine is a good choice.

But if you plan to train to race, burn more calories, and strengthen your legs, nothing beats the treadmill. So, deciding between the two depends on what you want.

7. How Long Should You Work Out On An Elliptical?

Well, the amount of time you spend on an elliptical machine depends on your workout routine and goal. If you are warming up before you can do some strength training, you can work out for 5-10 minutes.

However, if you want maximum cardio benefits, you’ll need to spend at least 15 minutes on an elliptical machine.

Closing Thought:

Overall, getting the best elliptical machine for tall person is excellent for your cardio exercises, injury recovery, and weight loss.

I’ve shared a definitive guide that you can use to find your ideal elliptical machine. Hopefully, you’ll find one on my list.