Just because you live in a small apartment does not mean you shouldn’t partake in some good cardio workouts to keep that heart pumping well!
You’ll find plenty of cardio workout equipment online, much of which is affordable and foldable to boot. It should be a no-brainer that you get a complete gym that fits under your bed. So, what’s the big deal?
The problem here is that while you’ll find many cardio workout equipment online that fits in small spaces, you won’t know which equipment makes the perfect choice. Do you go with the cheaper equipment, one that comes with a lot of features, or a rudimentary system?
Let’s find out.
How to Choose the Best Cardio Workout Equipment?
Before listing all the cardio workout equipment for small spaces like apartments which we think are best, some factors you should focus on include:
- Max. size requirements
- Max. noise level
- Cost/Quality
i) Size
You should safely assume that you’ll need about seven feet of space so you can comfortably perform the different bodyweight exercises. You’ll also need to ensure that the dimensions of your workout gear fit comfortably in the corner of your room.
Whether the equipment folds is another factor. Since you have a smaller space, you’ll want to be sure the equipment doesn’t hinder your path after you’re done working out. Try to find equipment that fits under your bed, tucked in a corner, or a closet.
ii) Noise Level
Knowing your machine’s noise level is crucial, especially if you live in an apartment with roommates or somewhere with thin walls or higher floors.
Look for equipment that doesn’t create too much noise. Otherwise, you will end up with a complaint against your name. Also, when placing your equipment, search for a space that’s not too deep into the apartment. The living room is a good space, or somewhere near the window. We’d recommend against putting your machine in the bedroom.
Remember, your neighbor’s bedrooms are in the same spot. They will not like waking up to a thunderous treadmill sound at six in the morning.
iii) Cost and Quality
The old chestnut “you get what you pay for” is valid for this case.
While there’s no need to buy complex machinery for your workout, it pays to have something worth the price that’s not too flimsy.
You may find a better option at a cheaper rate. But a low-cost option typically doesn’t last as long as you’d like. If possible, always go for a better quality product, even if it costs a little more than what your budget allows.
1. THERACK Workout Station 30 LB Pro Version
What if we told you that this simple contraption could help you perform pull-ups, push-ups, lunges, squats, dips, and many other exercises?
While THERACK® may seem basic in design, this equipment isn’t for the weak. It’s recommended for those who have a workout regime in place and exercise regularly. Thanks to its design, this workout equipment assists you in performing different exercises while pushing you past your comfort level.
Depending on what your fitness goals and levels are, the machine can pack a punch. But as said before, you’ll want to be sure you can handle the impact that THERACK® will have on your muscles. This workout station weighs 30 pounds and is foldable, so it will easily fit under your bed, in your car, or under your work desk.
But, if its weight doesn’t seem enough for you, you can add about forty pounds worth of plates to the station to make it worth your while.
Featuring heavy-duty steel construction, wheels that allow for core and abs exercises, comfortable hand grabs, and rubber feet that prevent the station from slipping, THERACK® is a piece of equipment that makes up for the cost.
2. Escape Fitness Multi-Purpose Fitness Station
It’s impossible to think that an essential bench could perform all the tasks needed for a full-body workout. And yet, the Escape Fitness Station does so with ease.
The station’s design allows you to adjust and configure the bench into 16 positions. It can be switched into a weight bench, a polymetric box, stepping platform, resistance tubes, and more. There’s also space for storage, so you can quickly access your weights when the workout changes mid-way. The station also features a lifted backrest for easy use with steel tubing support and offers three angles, including the 30, 45, and 70 degrees.
One of the best features of this workout station is that there’s no limit to height or weight. If you’re taller than 5″ 9′, you’ll still be comfortable laying back. The weight limit on this station also comes to about 35lbs. However, many customers stand by the fact that the bench handles a lot more weight. So, if you’re into weight training but are doubtful about the bench’s strength level, there’s no need.
From all aspects, this bench is a fair contender and has received rave reviews, even with competitors like Reebok trying to sell their wares. With its sturdy and rugged design, this bench is the best option for your workouts.
3. Concept 2 SkiErg
This cardio machine is perfect if you don’t want to put your joints under too much pressure but want a heart-pumping workout anyway.
Using the ski motion to help your muscles get that lactic acid up and going, this machine allows you to work out your upper body and core while keeping your ankles and knees intact. Those out there who think this is too easy, don’t be fooled by the machine’s simple motion. Even if you’ve skied before, you will still need to improve your breathing techniques and movements because there’s no cheating with this one.
Unlike an elliptical where you put the initial pressure, the machine starts working your legs out; it’s you who will be powering this one up. You’ll need to start with 20 – 30 minutes of exercise at a light intensity, perhaps 250–300 meters. You can pepper that with 2-minute intervals for rest.
Once you become used to the machine’s movement, you can start to beat your distance. But again, don’t go too fast; otherwise, you will overwork your muscles will beg for mercy. As we said, this machine doesn’t do the work for you. But fear not, once you see how strong this machine has made your core and arms, you’ll waste no time in ramping up your workouts to take the most advantage from the SkiErg!
4. Best Cardio Workout Equipment for Apartment
Can you complete a home cardio gym without adding an exercise bike? The Exerpeutic Folding bike is a miracle worker because it gives you the ease of cycling indoors and the chance to fold it up and store it under the bed after. But that’s not all.
Putting the ergonomic folding design aside, the machine’s solid, high-quality steel structure and 300lbs load capacity makes this machine an excellent choice for those who are a little on the heavy side and want to bring back their weight to a healthy level. It also helps that the bike features an LCD that keeps track of your time, speed, heart rate, distance traveled, and calories burned.
And last but not least, this cycle features an ergonomically designed seat made with a high-density sponge. And for those who hate the hard seats on the gym bikes, our glutes are grateful for this feature.
While this bike may not be as advanced as the others, what sets it apart is its ease. It offers everything you need from a workout and isn’t an eyesore either. And that makes it a great choice in any homeowner’s book.
5. XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
The treadmill is and always has been the most popular machine for cardio workouts, mainly because it gives the most effective results. However, treadmills are hated for being bulky, noisy, and somewhat of a hassle, which is why many turn them into clothing stands.
But not with the XTERRA Fitness treadmill! Considering that its size comes up to about 6.5″ and is a foldable machine, this treadmill can be stored just about anywhere and has special wheelies to make its transport more accessible, even the leaner ones among us. With a maximum weight recommendation of 250 pounds, this machine is used for just about all fitness levels.
The machine also features a large 5-inch LCD that shows all the necessary information, including time, distance, speed, incline, pulse, and calories. Unlike most treadmills, it also helps that this one can be used as a standing treadmill or one you can run or walk on while you work. And once you’re done, fold it up and leave it under the desk for the next day you want to work out.
Although this one is slightly more expensive than the options above, treadmills still are worth the hefty price if you can afford one.
Ready to Buy?
Now is as good a time as ever to invest in your heart health, so buy any of the above cardio machines today.
Cardio workouts keep your heart pumping and your blood running. With your body feeling healthy, you will be able to protect yourself against anything the world puts at you, whether it’s an infection or a stressful day’s work!