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Best cardio equipment in Australia

From treadmills to rowing machines, these are the 10 best cardio machines for your home gym.

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Tim Falk
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The best cardio equipment in Australia

How did we pick this list?

Our editorial team selected the products on this list based on actual customer reviews on sites like rebel, Gym and Fitness, Fit Online, Amazon and more. For each category, we carefully selected parameters based on our research and identified the cardio machines with the highest review score within those parameters.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

Endurance SPT Treadmill

Best treadmill

Endurance SPT Treadmill
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Easy to fold away and set up
  • Several reviewers mention sturdy build

Cons

  • No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
  • Some runners may want a longer platform

Why we chose it

Searching for a practical and versatile treadmill to use in your home gym? There's a lot to like about the Endurance SPT.

This treadmill features everything you need for a home cardio workout, including 16 levels of automatic incline, pre-set workout programs and a tablet holder. At the same time, it has also earned its fair share of positive reviews from happy customers. These include an average score of 4.7/5 from over 115 Amazon customer reviews, along with plenty more high ratings on the Endurance Treadmills website.

The Endurance SPT took home the top prize as the best overall treadmill in our best treadmills guide, so it's no surprise to see it take the win here as the best treadmill.

Powered by a 2.5hp motor, the SPT allows you to program your speed between 1km/h and 20km/h. Up to 16 levels of automatic incline are available so you can increase the intensity of your workout, and the 46cm-wide belt is supported by 8 suspension points and a rubber cushioning shock absorption system.

Elsewhere, the Endurance SPT Treadmill also includes a range of other features to help make working out as practical and convenient as possible. These include built-in speakers, a tablet holder, and a large LCD display that shows key workout metrics. There are also workout programs for things like weight loss and HIIT, and the machine offers hydraulic folding and transportation wheels for easy moving and storage.

All things considered, the SPT is a versatile treadmill that will make a welcome addition to many home gyms. Of course, if you're looking for a treadmill to suit a specific purpose – such as for running, for use in a small space, or for providing a wide range of adjustable incline levels – we also recommend checking out the models that feature in our best treadmills guide.

York Fitness C410 Exercise Bike

Best exercise bike

York Fitness C410 Exercise Bike
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • 32 levels of resistance
  • Competitively priced

Cons

  • Other bikes offer more workout programs
  • Some buyers report that instruction manual could be clearer

Why we chose it

Love the fitness that cycling offers but don't want to deal with dodgy drivers or bad weather? The York Fitness C410 is our top pick as the best exercise bike for your home gym.

This convenient home cardio machine offers more than 30 levels of resistance, a wide range of adjustability, and a competitive price tag. It's also been well received by consumers, with over 15 5-star reviews from Fit Online customers. That's why we think it's well worth a closer look if you're searching for a home exercise bike.

Featuring an 8kg flywheel, the C410 offers 32 levels of electronic resistance to suit your workout needs. Pedalling is handled by a 3-piece crank system, while the machine's 130kg maximum user weight means it will be suitable for a wide range of people.

The C410 offers a choice of 16 workout programs to suit a variety of fitness goals, with hand pulse sensors so you can track your heart rate. A blue backlit LCD screen, measuring 131 x 59mm, displays key workout data like time, speed, distance, calories, pulse and RPM.

Another key feature of this bike is its adjustability. You sit on a cushioned seat, which features rake and slide adjustment, while the handlebars can be moved to suit your reach. Stabilisers can also be adjusted if you're on an uneven surface, and transportation wheels make it easy to move the bike from room to room.

So if you're searching for a versatile and affordable exercise bike for your home gym, add the York C410 to your shopping shortlist.

Assault Fitness AirBike

Best air bike

Assault Fitness AirBike
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Built with durability in mind
  • Resistance increases the harder you push

Cons

  • There are cheaper options available
  • Some complaints that display is a little difficult to read

Why we chose it

If you want to buy an air bike for your home gym, we recommend checking out the Assault Fitness AirBike. This popular machine has been designed to withstand heavy-duty workouts, boasts a wide range of built-in programs, and includes a host of other features to help you work up a sweat.

The AirBike has been well received by consumers as well, with an average score of 4.9/5 from over 290 Gym and Fitness customer ratings. So if you're in the market for a quality air bike, the Assault Fitness AirBike is our top pick.

One of the main selling points of the AirBike is its sturdy construction. It sits on a heavy-duty steel frame with an industrial powder coating, while reinforced pedals and cranks provide added durability. Sealed cartridge bearings are used in all pivots and moving parts, while adjustable stabilising feet ensure there's no wobble when you're working hard.

As this is an air bike, the level of resistance automatically increases the harder you work. Key workout metrics are displayed on the battery-powered console — including time, distance, calories, speed, watts and RPM — and there are 7 built-in workout programs including interval training, target time, target distance and target heart rate.

The Assault AirBike is also designed to be simple and fuss-free to assemble, and it comes with integrated transport wheels for when you need to manoeuvre it around your home. All things considered, it's not hard to see why it has picked up so many positive reviews from happy customers.

Vortex V1000 Spin Bike

Best spin bike

Vortex V1000 Spin Bike
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Heavy-duty design
  • Adjustable

Cons

  • Not cheap
  • Some buyers report that pedals could be better

Why we chose it

If you're searching for the best spin bike to provide a full-body workout at home, we recommend checking out the Vortex V1000. This bike is designed for frequent use, makes it simple to track key workout metrics, and can also be easily adjusted and moved to suit your needs.

The Vortex V1000 has also picked up plenty of positive reviews, with an average score of 4.9/5 from over 35 Gym and Fitness customers, so it's our top pick as the best spin bike.

A light-commercial machine, the V1000 is designed to withstand frequent high-intensity use. Sitting on a heavy-duty steel frame, this bike comes with 2 x 59cm bars that provide extra stability and are padded for increased comfort. The handlebars are also sweat-resistant, adjustable, and offer multiple grips so you can work different muscle groups.

The V1000 features a 20kg flywheel connected to a Typhonic Rev Generation 4 drive mechanism. Combined with a French Hutchinson high-strength drive belt, this helps ensure a smooth and stable ride.

In terms of tracking your workout, the LCD screen offers easy-to-navigate menus and data. Calories burned, RPM, speed and time can all be tracked on the screen, and the V1000 is also wireless chest strap compatible if you want to monitor your heart rate. Other features include racing-style pedals, an adjustable seat and a lifetime frame warranty.

The Vortex V1000 may not be the cheapest spin bike out there, but if you plan on using your home cardio equipment, it's a bike that's well worth a closer look.

NordicTrack VR19 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best recumbent exercise bike

NordicTrack VR19 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Comfortable seat
  • 24 in-built apps and 22 levels of resistance

Cons

  • There are cheaper options available
  • Some complaints that assembly is a little difficult

Why we chose it

If you suffer from back problems or you're just looking for a more comfortable way to cycle for cardio, the NordicTrack VR19 is our pick as the best recumbent exercise bike. With an average score of 4.5/5 from over 55 rebel customer reviews, it certainly has its fair share of fans among Aussie fitness enthusiasts.

The VR19 also offers a host of in-built workout apps and a host of other features to help increase the convenience and comfort of your workout, so it's our top pick as the best recumbent exercise bike.

The VR19 features a 7kg inertia enhanced flywheel and a 5-inch multi-colour display screen. There are 24 in-built workout programs so you can tailor an exercise routine to suit your fitness goals, while the 22 levels of magnetic resistance also ensure plenty of adjustability.

The oversized seat is designed to provide ample comfort while you're working up a sweat, and is easily adjustable to suit your build. EKG Grip Pulse allows you to track your heart rate and tailor your workout accordingly, while the maximum user weight for this machine is limited to 125kg.

Finally, the NordicTrack VR19 Recumbent Exercise Bike also boasts a number of other features to help make it more user-friendly. These include an autobreeze workout fan to help keep you cool, and an audio system with a pair of 2-inch speakers so you can sweat it out to your favourite tunes.

There are cheaper options on the market compared to the NordicTrack VR19, but with so many workout options available and plenty of positive reviews, it's our pick as the best recumbent bike.

NordicTrack C5.5 NT18 Crosstrainer

Best elliptical

NordicTrack C5.5 NT18 Crosstrainer
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • 20 pre-set workouts
  • Solid steel construction

Cons

  • Some complaints that machine moves a little during intense workouts
  • Not the easiest to assemble

Why we chose it

If you're searching for the best elliptical trainer for your home gym, there's a lot to like about the NordicTrack C5.5 NT18. This handy machine offers a wide range of resistance levels and workout programs, easy adjustability and manoeuvrability, and all the essential features you need for a convenient home workout.

It's picked up its fair share of positive feedback too, with an average score of 4.8/5 from over 70 rebel customer reviews. With all these factors in mind, the NordicTrack will be a practical inclusion in any home gym.

Before going any further, we should also give an honourable mention to the Stamina 55-1602 Inmotion Elliptical, which has picked up plenty of positive reviews from Amazon customers. If you're looking for a convenient and portable cross trainer that won't break the bank, it's certainly worth a closer look. But if you're in the market for a full-size piece of equipment, the NordicTrack C5.5 NT18 is our top pick.

This NordicTrack elliptical machine comes with 20 pre-loaded workouts that automatically adjust the incline and resistance as required. There are 20 levels of resistance available, and the ramp can be adjusted to 5 different positions between 0 and 20 degrees. This elliptical also features commercial-gauge solid steel construction, a maximum user weight of 125kg, and soft grips with an EKG grip pulse heart rate monitor.

Other highlights include a 5-inch display, a pair of 2-inch speakers and adjustable levelling feet, making the NordicTrack C5.5 NT18 a solid choice if you want to add an elliptical to your home gym.

Teeter FreeStep LT-1 Recumbent Cross Trainer

Best recumbent elliptical

Teeter FreeStep LT-1 Recumbent Cross Trainer
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Low-impact exercise
  • Highly adjustable

Cons

  • Some complaints about uncomfortable seat
  • Some buyers report that it’s difficult to get on and off the machine

Why we chose it

The Teeter FreeStep LT-1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is our choice as the best recumbent elliptical for a number of reasons. It's easy to use, offers a host of workout options, and is designed to reduce the stress on your knees, hips and lower back.

The FreeStep LT-1 is no stranger to positive reviews either, earning an average score of 4.8/5 from reviews on rebel and the Teeter website. As a result, it's a clear winner in this category as the best recumbent elliptical trainer.

Designed for low-impact movements, the Teeter FreeStep LT-1 uses special stride technology to create a streamline striding motion. The purpose of this is to provide protection against knee shear and ensure extra stability for the hips and lower back.

There are 8 levels of variable magnetic resistance available with this machine, and you can choose your desired setting by simply twisting a dial. The seat back can recline to 3 different positions, there are variable height settings available, and the handles can be adjusted through 8 different positions for maximum comfort.

While you're raising your heart rate, you can use the battery-powered console to track time, distance, speed and calories burned. A tablet holder and water bottle holder are also included for added convenience, so there's no excuse not to squeeze in a workout whenever you get the chance.

So if you're searching for a low-impact way to get a solid cardio workout at home, the Teeter FreeStep LT-1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is definitely worth checking out.

Concept2 RowErg

Best rowing machine

Concept2 RowErg
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 2 seat heights

Cons

  • There are cheaper options available
  • Some users complain that the seat is not very comfortable

Why we chose it

If you want to improve your cardio fitness and get a full-body workout at the same time, a rowing machine should be at the top of your shopping list. And if you're searching for the best rowing machine in Australia, it's hard to go past the Concept2 RowErg.

This popular rower is built tough, operates smoothly and features a range of pre-set workouts. It's also a machine backed by a host of positive customer reviews. The RowErg, which rebranded to its current moniker in 2021 after earlier being known as the Model D, has an average 5/5 rating from over 1,000 Google reviews. As a result, it's our top pick as the best rowing machine.

The RowErg is marketed as a machine that's built by rowers, for rowers, and is designed to provide a full-body workout with minimal impact. Available with either a 36cm or 51cm seat height, the RowErg in either form is suitable for people with inseams of up to 96.5cm.

As this machine uses air resistance, you're able to control the level of effort and resistance for each stroke. The flywheel is designed to be smooth and quiet in operation, and there's a spiral damper so you can quickly adjust the level of airflow to the flywheel when needed.

In terms of tracking your workout, the PM5 performance monitor shows pace, watts, stroke rate, calories burned and more. This data is automatically stored in the machine's internal memory or on a USB drive, and it's easy to set up a variety of unique workouts based on your training needs. The PM5 also offers Bluetooth connectivity so you can sync your workout data with apps like Zwift and Concept2's own ErgData.

Other key features of the RowErg include a smartphone mount, transport wheels, and the ability to quickly separate the machine into 2 pieces for easy storage, making this a practical piece of exercise equipment for any home.

Fortis Mini Stepper

Best step machine

Fortis Mini Stepper
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and compact

Cons

  • Only 100kg weight capacity
  • Some complaints about disappointing instruction manual

Why we chose it

There aren't many activities that can get your heart rate up as quickly as some good old-fashioned stair climbing. And if you're looking for an exercise machine that simulates this activity, we recommend taking a closer look at the Fortis Mini Stepper.

This practical little machine is lightweight and compact, has an affordable price tag, and makes it possible to exercise just about anywhere. It has also picked up a host of positive reviews from buyers, with an average rating of 4.1/5 from over 300 Kogan customer reviews. As a result, the Fortis Mini Stepper is our number-one pick as the best step machine.

Weighing in at 7.5kg and measuring 405 x 295 x 190mm, the Mini Stepper is compact and portable enough to take with you if you want to work out in the office or maybe in your backyard. The footplates are large and slip-resistant, with a maximum user weight of 100kg. Dual hydraulic cylinders simulate a stepping motion to help raise your heart rate, and you can adjust the stepping height to suit your fitness needs.

An on-board electronic monitor can be used to track your workout, displaying steps per minute, time spent exercising and calories burned. If you'd like to exercise your upper body at the same time, you can pull on the attached straps to give your arms a workout too.

Best of all, the Fortis Mini Stepper retails at around the $60 mark, allowing you to boost your cardio fitness without leaving your finances in poor health.

MaxiClimber Classic

Best vertical climber

MaxiClimber Classic
Image: Supplied/Finder

Not yet rated

Pros

  • Easy to set up and use
  • Folds away

Cons

  • Low ratings for app
  • Some users criticise build quality

Why we chose it

If you're searching for a vertical climber to provide a challenging cardio workout, there are lots of good reasons why you should check out the MaxiClimber Classic. This calorie-burning piece of equipment features easy set-up, is simple to use and offers a low-impact workout.

The MaxiClimber Classic has also garnered a host of positive reviews from buyers, with an average score of 4.6/5 from over 60 eBay customer reviews and 4.3/5 from over 6,000 global reviews on Amazon. Taking these myriad high ratings into account, the MaxiClimber Classic takes the win here as the best vertical climber.

Designed to offer a full-body workout, this unique piece of home gym equipment combines weight resistance and aerobic exercise to help tone your muscles and improve fitness. An ergonomic design and isometric non-stick grips help improve user comfort, while a digital calorie and step counter lets you track your workout as you go.

The maximum user height for the MaxiClimber Classic is 6.2ft, but there is also an XL model available for taller users. The machine comes 90% pre-assembled so you don't have to worry about a lengthy construction process, and its folding design means it won't take up too much space in your cupboard when it's time to pack the MaxiClimber away.

Finally, there's also a compatible MaxiClimber app available for Apple and Android devices. This provides access to instructor-led training classes and a 21-day interval training program, helping you to get the most out of your newest piece of cardio equipment.

Amazon prices last updated on 25 January, 2022 at 01:19 am
eBay prices last updated on 24 January, 2022 at 07:00 pm

Methodology

25+
Brands considered
60+
Products compared
10
Best products chosen
  • We considered cardio equipment from over 25 brands.
  • We chose our top picks based on key product features and real customer reviews.
  • The products on this list are chosen by our editorial team and are not selected based on commercial relationships.

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