Cardio machine recommendation

[Hermia]

Hey, all,

My boyfriend wants to buy a cardio machine, so I thought I'd come here and see if anyone might have a recommendation. =)

I do all my cardio via dvds, so I don't really have much insight to offer him. Does anyone know a good brand? I think he wants a bike. Are there certain features we should look for? He'd probably be into any other machine, too, but he doesn't want high impact, so no running/treadmill. Thanks for any insight and recommendations! =)

 

[chefkate]

Versaclimber, baby!

Zero impact, all sweat!
There is no workout like it! DH & I totally love this thing. Makes me sweat like none other!

It's a bit pricey but well worth it!

 

[sancho]

My suggestion is that he join a gym and figure out what cardio machine he likes. Personally (I think I'm the only person in the world), I don't like the elliptical. I prefer the old time stairmaster. But even better is the Step Mill which is the actual steps that rotate around as you climb on them. Some people prefer recumbent bikes, I prefer a spin bike. Before he makes that big investment, he should try some stuff out for a few months and make sure he's going to stick with it. I agree with the above poster about the versa climber, but they are hard to come by at gyms. I think because they are really torture devices : )

 

[Hermia]

He actually has been going to the gym for several months, but I don't think any particular machine stands out to him. He did mention a bike first of all, but when I mentioned a stair climber, he seemed equally fine with that. I think for him the main thing is just to get something here, in the house, because he knows he'll use that a lot more than the equipment at the gym.

I checked out that Versaclimber, and wow, it is a tad expensive! Looks pretty cool, though! I'm not exactly sure what he wants to spend, but are there any places that have particularly good deals?

As far as the bikes, is there any difference in quality of workout between a recumbent bike and a spin bike?

 

[lhicks1354]

Elliptical

The Elliptical Machine is supposed to be one of the best machines for burning calories with the least amount of impact to ligaments and joints. I really love the elliptical because it does not feel as hard as other machines such as the stair master but it gives a really great workout.

 

[Miss Lee]

I have a Precor elliptical and I LOVE it! I'd love to have a bike, too, but I can't recommend a brand or model because I've never used a stationary bike. Rowing machines are nice, too. If you want an elliptical I suggest you try several different machines because each one has it's own unique features and feel.

 

[kathryn]

You might want to consider a rower. Concept 2 seem to be the best.
I don't have one, but I'm saving up to get one.