Elliptical Bike Combo Machines – What Are They All About?
Ellipticals and recumbent bikes are both very popular, but did you know that it’s now possible to get a combination of the two in one machine? An elliptical bike combo is a great way to get the best of both workouts without spending a fortune, while saving space at the same time.
In order to get a better idea of what an exercise bike and elliptical combo can do for you, let’s take a closer look at exactly what these machines do and what’s available on the market.
How Do These Two In One Machines Work?
With an elliptical recumbent bike combo you can get a traditional elliptical workout with a gliding stride and arm movement to help work the upper body or switch to a recumbent bike workout, with a pedal motion that works the muscles in a different way.
As an elliptical and bike in one, each hybrid has the look of a recumbent bike with a taller front piece that allows you to stand and get a traditional elliptical workout. There are many different models on the market, each with the same basic footprint though they vary in the features they offer.
How Do They Compare To Traditional Ellipticals?
The main difference between a traditional elliptical and an elliptical bike combo is the extra bike function. These two in one machines let you work out all muscle groups and the recumbent position helps to limit stress on the legs and hips.
Both types of machines come in a variety of makes and models and have the same basic price range, from $250 on the affordable side up to as much as $3,000 for higher end machines, though you’ll find that if you compare the two at the same price point, the traditional elliptical is likely to be much better quality than the two in one machine.
What Are Some Of The Best Exercise Bike and Elliptical Combo Machines Out There?
There are a number of different models to choose from, but here are the most popular ones…
ProForm Hybrid Trainer – This is a mid-level elliptical bike combo typically in the $599-$799 range depending on current sales. It offers all the benefits of a recumbent exercise bike along with everything you’d expect from a traditional elliptical. You can seamlessly switch between the two with easily adjustable pedals and console, so that the large LCD display is easily viewable from a standing or sitting position.
The ProForm Hybrid comes with 16 on-board workouts and is also iFit enabled so that, with an additional subscription, you can have access to certified personal trainers to lead you on a wide range of GlobeTrek workouts, tracking and sharing, on-demand and live classes and a lot more.
Other unique features of this model include: a 15” stride length, built in EKG Grip Pulse Sensor, an adjustable cushioned seat and oversized, adjustable cushioned pedals. 16 resistance levels let you take your workout from easy to intense and the large integrated tablet holder helps keep your tablet secure without slipping.
Body Power 3-in-1 Exercise Machine – This is a more affordable model, at just under $300, but it stands out from other elliptical bike combos by offering three separate functions: elliptical, recumbent bike and upright bike. It features three sets of integrated handlebars: U-shaped with built in heart monitor, dual action for a traditional elliptical workout or wraparound at the base of the seat.
The advanced flywheel allows this combination machine to operate quietly so it can be used in your home gym without disturbing anyone and there is a front mounted knob that allows you to easily adjust the magnetic resistance.
Body Champ 3-in-1 Exercise Machine Trio Trainer Plus Two – This model, priced at just under $400, takes the elliptical recumbent bike combo to the next level. Along with a traditional upright cycle function it also includes both seated and sprint road bike cycling for an even more challenging workout. There’s no adjusting of the pedals involved, simply switch between the three sets of integrated handlebars to move from one type of workout to another.
It also features a programmable exercise console with 21 training programs and a media shelf to hold your tablet or smart phone, a two way adjustable seat for maximum comfort in any of the workout modes, transport wheels for easy movement, an integrated hand pulse/heart rate monitor and adjustable magnetic resistance.
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical – This is a unique exercise bike and elliptical combo that provides a low impact workout by offering all of the exercise modes in the recumbent position. The naturally reclined position reduces body fatigue and eliminates stress on the joints.
It’s a little more high end at around $800 but for anyone interested in a total body workout that’s easy on the joints it’s the perfect choice. It features both a patented stride technology that stabilizes the back and hips as well as push-pull mechanics that help to work out your upper body. It has an easy to read digital console with smart device stand, a 3 position reclining seat, adjustable seat height, rotating handle adjustments that let you target different muscle groups and a friction-free magnetic linkage system.
Are These Hybrid Machines A Good Choice For You?
That depends on what you want to get out of your workout. A quality stand alone elliptical machine with high end features may provide enough of a challenge for you while a hybrid can make it easier to get a full body workout. For individuals with arthritis or other joint issues, the more forgiving recumbent position reduces stress on the joints. Of course the biggest advantage is being able to save money and space by getting everything in one machine.
Bottom Line
When all is said and done, an elliptical bike combo can offer a great alternative, combining all the features of two separate machines into one sleek, easily movable package with a relatively small footprint that can fit into any home gym. They’re not for everyone and as with any kind of exercise equipment you generally get what you pay for, so you should shop carefully and make sure you’re getting a machine that best fits your individual exercise needs.