Health & Medical

Best Home Exercise Equipment for Seniors (2024)

Best Exercise Equipment for Seniors

It can be hard to stay active as you get older, especially if you don’t have access to the best exercise equipment for seniors. 

Most people think that the only way to stay active as you get older is by going to a gym, but that’s not true. There are a lot of great exercises that you can do right at home with some simple pieces of equipment.

Our Top Picks of the Best Home Workout Equipment for Older Adults

Best Rated
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Amazon's Choice
Gaiam Yoga Mat
Amazon's Choice
Recumbent Exercise Bike for Adults Seniors
BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Gaiam Yoga Mat - Alignment Print Premium 6mm Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of...
JEEKEE Recumbent Exercise Bike for Adults Seniors - Indoor Magnetic Cycling Fitness Equipment for...
$399.98
Price not available
$219.99
4.8 out of 5 Stars
4.7 out of 5 Stars
4.3 out of 5 Stars
88% Rated 5 Stars
82% Rated 5 Stars
63% Rated 5 Stars
22k+ Ratings
20k+ Ratings
4k+ Ratings
Key Features
Quality
Ease of assembly
Value
Key Features
Appearance
Thickness
Durability
Key Features
Ease of assembly
Quality
Value
Best Rated
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
$399.98
4.8 out of 5 Stars
88% Rated 5 Stars
22k+ Ratings
Key Features
Quality
Ease of assembly
Value
Amazon's Choice
Gaiam Yoga Mat
Gaiam Yoga Mat - Alignment Print Premium 6mm Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of...
Price not available
4.7 out of 5 Stars
82% Rated 5 Stars
20k+ Ratings
Key Features
Appearance
Thickness
Durability
Amazon's Choice
Recumbent Exercise Bike for Adults Seniors
JEEKEE Recumbent Exercise Bike for Adults Seniors - Indoor Magnetic Cycling Fitness Equipment for...
$219.99
4.3 out of 5 Stars
63% Rated 5 Stars
4k+ Ratings
Key Features
Ease of assembly
Quality
Value

Check out our list of the best home exercise equipment for seniors.

Related: Exercise Pedals for Elderly: Your Choices Explained

We’ve picked out the best pieces of equipment for seniors who want to stay healthy and independent.

Best Treadmills for Seniors

Best Treadmills for Seniors

Treadmills are a staple of any home workout. They are relatively cheap and easy to store away when you’re not using them. The treadmill is a full-body exercise that will give you your heart rate, which improves cardiovascular health, burning fat, and toning muscles.

Treadmills are a convenient method for cardio exercise, especially if you don’t have access to a park. Depending on your fitness goals and level of experience, you can pick from a basic walking treadmill with a few extra features to one with more bells and whistles.

If you’re a runner, it’s essential to remember that running is a high-impact sport that may not be suitable for all fitness levels.

Here are our top choices for the finest treadmills for seniors:

Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill 

Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill with Low Wide Deck and Multi-Grip Handrails for Balance,...
  • SHOCK ABSORPTION: Exercising on the low step-up height treadmill is made easy with its sizable (44L...
  • POWERFUL MOTOR: Achieve speeds ranging from 0.6 mph to 5 mph with the 2.5-peak horsepower motor of...
  • TRANSPORTATION WHEELS: This portable treadmill can be moved from room to room with its front-mounted...

This Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill is perfect for a quick workout in the comfort of your own home. This treadmill can accommodate anyone looking for an easy way to get fit with a frame made from durable alloy steel, a speed rating of 5 miles per hour, and a weight capacity of 295 pounds.

Plus, at just 123 pounds, it’s easy to move around when you’re not using it.

3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill

3G Cardio Elite Runner X Treadmill - Commercial Grade - FreeSync FTMS Bluetooth Connectivity - 4.0...
  • 3G Cardio, an Arizona-based company with a combined 50 years of experience in the fitness industry,...
  • Full commercial grade, high-end components equal to what is found on most $6000 treadmills. An...
  • A heavy-duty, club-rated, high torque 4.0 HP motor powers the 386lb treadmill (84" L x 35.5" W x 58"...

The 3G Cardio Elite Runner is the perfect treadmill for runners of all levels. With a top speed of 12 mph and a 4 horsepower motor, this machine can handle any workout you throw at it. The durable alloy steel frame can accommodate up to 400 pounds, and the 84 x 35.5-inch running surface provides plenty of space to move around.

Plus, the built-in console keeps track of your progress so that you can stay on top of your game.

SOLE F63 Treadmill

Sole Fitness TT8 Treadmill, Treadmill with Incline and Decline Options, Bluetooth, Touch Screen,...
  • UNLEASH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL - Elevate your fitness journey with our Sole TT8 Treadmill! Featuring a...
  • VERSATILE WORKOUTS - This walking and running treadmill offers an array of fitness programs,...
  • INCLINE/DECLINE RANGE: The Sole TT8 offers a wide treadmill incline and decline range from -6 to 15...

The Sole F63 excels in meeting the demands of active older individuals. The treadmill features commercial-grade components like CushionFlex Whisper Deck, large track rollers, and a heavy-duty motor.

In addition, the focus is on above-average artistry backed by an outstanding warranty that provides lifetime protection for the frame and engine, three years for the components, deck, and electronics, and one year of labor rather than on superfluous features that many older persons don’t use.

Exercise Bikes for Seniors

Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors

Biking is a fantastic way to get your heart rate up while enhancing lower body strength. In addition, exercise bikes are relatively inexpensive and easy to store when you’re not using them.

If you want to take the pressure off your joints and are more comfortable on a recumbent exercise bike, upright bikes may be ideal. On the other hand, recumbent types might be preferable if you have restricted mobility or joint discomfort.

When you’re starting, it’s important to make sure your bike is comfortable and appropriate for your body type.

Here are our top choices for the best exercise bikes for seniors:

LANOS Workout Bike For Home

LANOS Foldable Exercise Bike For Home - 2 In 1 Recumbent Folding Exercise Bike and Upright Indoor...
  • 【The #1 Fast, Fun, and Easy Way to Lose Weight in the Comfort of Your Home!】 With gyms closing...
  • 【New Ultra Quiet Design and Upgraded LCD Monitor for Optimal Performance!】 Your 100 percent...
  • 【Easy To Assemble in 20 - 30 Minutes With Complete Instruction Video & Manual Included!】 We know...

Tone up your at-home workout routine with the LANOS Workout Bike! This bike is perfect for anyone looking to add a little more intensity to their daily routine, with 10 levels of resistance and a weight capacity of 300 pounds.

The all-steel frame is tough enough to withstand even the most intense workouts, while the comfortable saddle and handlebars make it easy to keep your pedaling going for longer periods of time. So hop on and start burning those calories!

Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Bike
  • With enhanced Bluetooth connectivity, users can set, track and monitor progress with popular...
  • Explore the world and discover 50plus global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed
  • Fully-loaded console with DualTrack blue backlit LCD screens offers 29 workout programs and...

Look no further than the Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike! This amazing piece of equipment offers 25 different resistance levels, so you can customize your workout to match your needs.

Plus, the built-in LCD screen keeps track of your progress as you pedal so that you can see your improvements over time.

And if that’s not incentive enough, this bike also comes with a carbon steel frame and a maximum weight recommendation of 136 kilograms – meaning it can accommodate just about anyone.

JEKEE Recumbent Exercise Bike

Sale
JEEKEE Recumbent Exercise Bike for Adults Seniors - Indoor Magnetic Cycling Fitness Equipment for...
  • Low-Cost & Efficient Workouts: JEEKEE has always been committed to combining life with exercise. A...
  • Adjustable Exercise Bike: The stationary bike has 53.5 inch frame and 9 position-adjusted seats for...
  • Smooth and Quiet Recumbent Bike: The stationary recumbent bike uses strong neodymium magnets. The...

Tone up your fitness routine with JEKEE’s Recumbent Exercise Bike! This bike is designed to give you a great workout while keeping you comfortable. It features 8 levels of resistance so that you can customize your experience and a belt drive system for smooth pedaling.

Plus, the bike is made of durable alloy steel and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds. Get moving with JEKEE!

Best Ellipticals for Seniors

Best Ellipticals for Seniors

Ellipticals are another fantastic method to get in a cardiovascular exercise without breaking a sweat. The motion of an elliptical machine is precisely the same as that of a treadmill: you stand on pedals and glide your legs back and forth. Some models also have moving handles that work your upper body in addition to this.

Compared to a treadmill, an elliptical is a better choice if you are prone to knee problems or have joint discomfort. With less pressure on your joints, ellipticals are easier on the body.

However, elliptical machines do not offer as good a workout as treadmills do. The motion is pretty easy for even less-fit people to handle, making it more of a general cardio machine instead of one that can help you lose weight fast. In addition, there are few options for incline or intensity on most models, so you need to be comfortable with low-intensity workouts.

But all told, if you’re looking for something gentle on the joints that will give your heart a solid workout at any fitness level, then an elliptical is definitely worth considering.

Our recommendations for the finest ellipticals for older adults are as follows.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine

Sunny Health & Fitness Legacy Stepping Elliptical Machine, Total Body Cross Trainer with Hyper-Quiet...
  • 【Ultra-Quiet Magnetic Belt Drive System】 This elliptical training machine uses a magnetic...
  • 【Easy Setup & Assembly】 Avoid the hassle of overly complicated assembly. This convenient...
  • 【Full Body & Low Impact Workout】 The SF-E905 elliptical machine provides a full-body cardio...

With 8 levels of magnetic resistance, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine is perfect for a challenging workout. The digital monitor displays your time, speed, distance, calories burned, and pulse rate.

The machine is easy to set up and features onboard stabilizers to ensure smooth and even movement. Compact and ideal for small spaces, this elliptical cross trainer is perfect for any fitness level.

Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical

Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical, Black
  • Goal Track capability enables users to set individual exercise goals by tracking time, distance and...
  • 20 inch stride with Precision Path foot motion technology simulates a natural running motion
  • High speed, high inertia drive system offers easy start-up and smooth, quiet workouts

The Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical is a top-of-the-line exercise machine that enables you to set individual goals, work out to 22 preset programs, and track your progress on the dual LCD screens.

With its high speed and inertia drive system, this elliptical is easy to start up and provides a smooth, quiet workout. The 20 levels of resistance ensure that you can always find the perfect workout intensity for your needs.

Best Exercise Equipment for Strength Training

Best Exercise Equipment for Strength Training

Seniors of all ages can benefit from strength training, but it’s especially essential for people who want to maintain muscle mass and perform everyday activities such as carrying groceries. In addition, strength training increases your metabolism, so you burn more calories at rest, decrease body fat, build strong bones, and make your muscles look toned.

2 days of strength training per week is recommended for those aged 55 and up. Depending on your available time and fitness level, you can work out either two or three days per week.

Strength training machines provide an efficient way to tone your muscles, as they allow you to do various exercises without the need for multiple machines.

Here is our list of the best strength equipment for seniors:

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell

BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
  • WIDER WEIGHT RANGE: Each dumbbell adjust from 5 to 52.5 lb. in 2.5 lb. increments up to 25 lb.
  • TURN OF A DIAL: Select the weight you want with the turn of the dial – no more picking up 15...
  • SPACE EFFICIENT: Say goodbye to 15 sets of dumbbells cluttering your workout space.

The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell is a great way to tone your body and ditch the clutter of 15 sets of dumbbells. This innovative product easily adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5-pound increments to switch seamlessly between exercises. The durable molding around the metal plates provides smooth lift-off and quieter workouts.

Core Max Smart Abs and Total Body Workout Cardio Home Gym

Core Max 2.0 Smart Abs and Total Body Workout Cardio Home Gym , Teal/Grey
  • GET SEXY ABS IN JUST 8 MINUTES A DAY: Core Max 2. 0 is scientifically designed to combine 8...
  • DUAL- ACTION RESISTANCE: Power-assisted rebound system provides resistance & support in both...
  • CUSTOMIZE YOUR WORKOUT: Customize your routine with 3 resistance levels. Burn calories & firm up...

Core Max Smart Abs and Total Body Workout Cardio Home Gym is the perfect way to tone up your abs while getting a total body workout. This machine is designed with 8 muscle-burning exercises that can be completed in 8 minutes a day. With 3 resistance levels, you can customize your routine to fit your needs.

Plus, the Core Max 2.0 comes with a nutritional guide, digital download workout videos, and FAST results workout chart to help you get the most out of your workouts.

Best Gym Equipment for Mobility and Balance

Best Gym Equipment for Mobility and Balance

Mobility is one of the most critical aspects of your health, but it’s often overlooked. As you get older, it’s crucial to make sure your joints are moving smoothly and easily, which will reduce pain and stress.

The best way to increase mobility in your arms or legs is through stretching exercises, but you can also improve your balance by regularly strengthening your muscles

The right equipment for seniors will allow you to move around more comfortably without worrying about falling. Here are our top picks:

Bintiva Stability Ball Chair

Sale
Stability Ball Chair for Office - Ergonomic Seating/Labor Birthing Pregnancy/Yoga Balance Stability...
  • This revolutionary product is a standard, anti-burst, exercise ball that has an attractive,...
  • The cover comes in two materials: A smooth canvas look, or, a more rugged felt style.
  • The elegant cover makes it perfect for use as a ball chair in any office, or home setting.

Looking for a versatile and stylish way to add an exercise ball to your home or office? Look no further than the Bintiva Stability Ball Chair! This anti-burst exercise ball comes with a removable, zippered cover in two materials – smooth canvas or rugged felt.

The surface is non-slip, providing ultimate safety and comfort, and features a convenient handle so it can be easily transported. The exercise ball set also includes a foot pump for inflation.

Bosu Balance Trainer

Bosu Multi Functional Original Home Gym 26 Inch Full Body Balance Strength Trainer Ball Equipment...
  • Multipurpose Workout Ball: Combines elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility into unique and...
  • Muscle Engagement: 26-inch balance ball increases the difficulty of workouts and builds your...
  • Versatile Balance Dome: Balance trainer improves your flexibility, endurance, strength, and overall...

Bring the challenge of a personal trainer to your living room with the BOSU Balance Trainer. This unusual piece of equipment delivers cardio, flexibility, muscular strength, and endurance training in a variety of stimulating, unique, and highly effective exercises.

Developed by industry experts, these workouts are designed to improve overall health and fitness. The BOSU Balance Trainer is also designed to endure – it has been subjected to 8x-10x the strain of the competition.

So get moving with control and step up your fitness game with the BOSU Balance Trainer.

Gaiam Yoga Mat

Gaiam Yoga Mat - Alignment Print Premium 6mm Thick Non Slip Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of...
  • ALIGNMENT YOGA MAT: 6mm thick premium yoga mat offers an alignment system that is printed on the mat...
  • STICKY NON-SLIP TEXTURE: Yoga mat features a textured sticky non-slip surface for excellent traction...
  • NON TOXIC & 6P FREE PVC yoga mat is a healthier choice for you and the planet and free of DEHP, DBP,...

The Gaiam Yoga Mat is the perfect way to practice your poses and stay aligned. The 6mm thick mat offers a comfortable and supportive surface, while the textured sticky non-slip surface ensures excellent traction and grip.

The yoga mat is also PVC-free, making it a healthier choice for you and the planet.

Plus, you’ll receive a free bonus downloadable yoga workout when you purchase the yoga mat. Namaste!

Buyer’s Guide for the Best Home Workout Equipment for Seniors

Choosing a piece of fitness equipment for seniors is not easy. You must consider several important factors when picking out the best equipment for your home workouts.

Evaluate your fitness goals and level of physical activity

When thinking about exercise equipment, it’s crucial to know what type of workout you want to do and how intense that workout will be. Ask yourself the following questions first.

  • Will you be going for a walk in the park outside or exercising at home?
  • Will you need equipment to help with balance?
  • Do you have a chronic condition like arthritis in your hands or knees that might benefit from low-impact exercises?

These questions will help you decide on the best home exercise equipment for seniors.

Choose the suitable material and size

You’ll also want to consider the different materials available and how these materials affect your workout.

If you’re planning on doing weight-bearing exercises, you’ll need a sturdier material that will withstand the pressure. There are plenty of cushiony but sturdy mats available for use during yoga or stretching exercises for low-impact workouts.

Consider your height as well – if you’ll be exercising in bare feet or with socks on, make sure to choose a mat that’s long enough to fit your body.

Also, consider how heavy the equipment is and whether it can hold your weight without collapsing.

If you’re using a balance ball chair instead of a traditional chair, make sure it gives you proper back support and doesn’t give too much when you sit on it.

Budget

While it’s easy to spend a large sum of money on the newest fitness equipment that promises the best results, there are plenty of options available within your budget. Remember that your budget will have much more wiggle room if you’re doing low-impact exercises.

Start at your local sporting goods store or medical supply store and work from there-you might even find something great online!

Special requirements

If you have a chronic condition, it’s essential to choose the best exercise equipment for seniors to support and promote proper posture. You’ll also want to think about whether or not the equipment needs electricity for you to use it.

Be sure to look into safety features as well – does the equipment have a handrail, or is there a larger surface area in case you lose your balance?

If you’re looking at stability balls, make sure they don’t pop when sat on-if they do, get another one because this could be dangerous during workouts!

FAQs on the Best Home Fitness Equipment for Seniors

What exercise equipment is good for older adults?

When looking for the best home exercise equipment for seniors, it’s important to consider low-impact or low-intensity exercises. You can do various workouts with resistance bands, yoga mats, stability balls, and more.

What are some good daily exercises?

The best daily exercises include keeping you active but don’t require too much exertion. Try walking outside per usual and using a treadmill for speed intervals every few minutes to challenge yourself and get your heart rate up. If you enjoy balance boards, see how many you can stand on at once – try jumping from one board to another!

How often should I work out?

As per the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, you’ll get even more health advantages if you spend over 300 minutes a week doing a moderate-intensity activity (60 minutes per day, 5 days per week), or 150 minutes a week doing vigorous-intensity exercise (30 minutes per day, 5 days per week), or an equivalent amount of time.

Weekly Exercise Activity for AdultsImage Source: CDC

A common question is whether or not seniors need to work out every day to see results. The answer is no – every few days will be just fine so long as you’re consistent with your workouts and find a balance between rest and activity!

Which is better for seniors, treadmill or bike?

A recumbent bike is more suited for those with no injuries or mobility concerns who want a less intense workout than a traditional treadmill. The stationary bike is typically preferable for elderly individuals since it can sit while working out.

Are ellipticals good for seniors?

An elliptical machine is a great way to get your heart rate up while not putting any stress on your joints. It’s low-impact but still an effective cardio workout, making it the perfect option for seniors who want to stay active without exercising too intensely.

What exercise equipment is best for knee pain?

If you have knee pain, it’s best to limit your choices to low-impact workouts. That being said, an exercise bike is a wonderful option for getting the cardiovascular benefits of cycling without putting too much strain on your joints or ligaments.

Are treadmills good for seniors?

Treadmills are ideal for people who wish to begin a regular exercise regimen but don’t want to go outdoors. They’re simple to operate, occupy little space, and can be used quietly while others are in the vicinity.

Is the treadmill good for arthritic knees?

Walking may help you feel better, increase your balance, and ease knee discomfort in people who have osteoarthritis. Walking is a simple, low-impact way to begin exercising. A treadmill allows you to remain active even if the weather is bad or you don’t want to go outside.

Final Words

As you get older, staying active may help prevent certain illnesses and reduce the risk of falls. Cardio, strength training, and balance activities should all be part of your weekly routine, regardless of their individual advantages.

Related: 10 Exercises That Seniors Should Avoid (Try These Instead)

The key to the best home exercise equipment for seniors is finding what you like and taking it step by step.

For example, can you do yoga in your living room (in front of the TV) with a resistance band?

How about strolling through the neighborhood while holding hand weights?

You don’t have to break the bank or join a pricey gym!

Related: Senior Fitness 101: Exercise Program Health Benefits

Before long, you’ll be looking into which workout videos are most appropriate for older adults and getting back on track towards living an active lifestyle.

Take things one day at a time and remember that every bit counts when it comes to staying healthy and independent!

However, before adding anything new into your routine, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor.


About

This top-ranked site now has over 4,000 pages of humor, nostalgia, senior advocacy and useful information for seniors 50+. Updates weekly!

The daily e-zine for everyone over 50 who feels way too young to be old.

"...the perfect mix of Andy Rooney, Dave Barry, and Garrison Keilor, combining knee-slapping humor with useful information and genuine compassion."

Retired.com

"Thousands look to and trust Suddenly Senior. Other Websites pale in comparison to the real-life, intimate look into senior lives. What sets apart Suddenly Senior is its blistering honesty and its incomparable encouragement. Millions need guidance."

Suzette Martinez Standring

"Best Senior Site ever on the Web! Great, up-to-date information on how seniors can save money on drugs. Wonderful nostalgia. Hard-hitting senior advocacy pieces that get read in high places. Wonderful humor. It's all at Suddenly Senior."

Alexa.com

KUDOS

Now read by 3.1 million in 83 newspapers from Florida's St. Petersburg Times to the Mumbai, India News.