10 Best Exercise Equipment For Seniors (2024)
Eva is a NASM certified personal trainer and a Certified Life and Weight Loss Coach with 14 years of experience. She is also an Advanced Certified Weight Loss Coach with a specialty in Emotional Eating Psychology. She is the host of the top-ranking health and fitness podcast, Uncomplicating Weight Loss & Life.
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Shreya is a commerce writer who is passionate about reviewing products related to fitness, health, and home. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurugram, and has four years of experience.
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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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In This Article
Agility and fitness are basic necessities in day-to-day life, more so with advancing age. Workouts play an important role in maintaining one’s health and staying fit and active. But with age, the limitations of the body tend to increase and people are left with very few choices to keep themselves in good shape. Adding to this is the dreadful pandemic looming on mankind, keeping everybody behind closed doors and limiting access to gyms and parks.
In such scenarios, home workouts for everyday activity seem to be the best option, and having exercise equipment at home lends support to the idea of home workouts. Installing a piece of exercise equipment at home is beneficial in a way for older adults as they can workout according to their will and wish without having to step out of the comfort of their home. Weather conditions and other factors do not become a hindrance in the exercise routine either. But is your brain in a tizzy as to which exercise equipment are the right choice for the elderly? Fret not, as we list down the 10 best exercise equipment for seniors to form a healthy workout routine in 2024.
[table “5777” not found /]10 Best Exercise Equipment For Seniors To Stay In Shape
1. Best For Low-Impact Workout:Bosu Home Balance Trainer
Loss of balance with advancing age will be a thing of the past with the Bosu Home Balance Trainer for low-impact workout. It makes your workouts more challenging and fun as you learn to move with control on a dynamic surface that is not very stable. Also known as “half ball”, this is perhaps one of the best home gym equipment for seniors that helps in doing workouts such as cardio workout, endurance training, muscular strength building, flexibility exercises, bodyweight exercises, etc. This low-impact strength training for older adults supports user weight of upto 300 lbs and comes with a hand pump and downloadable owner’s manual. To get a better understanding of the product, check out this video detailing a reviewer’s experience with it.
Pros
- Helps improve balance
- Aids in doing various workouts
- Eases movement with control
- Manual and pump included
- Can take user weight upto 300 lbs
Cons
- Does not retain air and deflates quickly
- The base might come off in a few months
Did You Know?Bosu balls or stability balls were invented in the late 90s by David Weck who first called them “both sides up”.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 7,873 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
2. Best Portable:LANOS Workout Bike For Home
Exercising in the comfort of home is made easier for seniors with the Lanos Workout Bike For Home. This 2-in-1 recumbent bike has 10 magnetic resistance levels for customized user needs. With an LCD display screen, this type of exercise equipment for seniors allows you to monitor and track the results of your workout session. It comes with a manual and instruction video to allow for easy assembly and its ultra-quiet design makes sure you workout without causing disturbance to others. Reviewers love the product as it has a lightweight and space-saving folding design, and is one of the best portable exercise equipment for seniors.
Pros
- Portable and convenient
- Easy to assemble and customize
- Ultra-quiet design
- Built-in LCD monitor display
- Space-saving design
- Supports user weight upto 330 lbs
Cons
- The machine may start making squeaking noises after some time.
3. Best Adjustable Settings:DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
Workout anytime and anywhere with the DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser. This portable sitting regular exercise equipment for obese seniors has 8 levels of resistance settings and fits under your desk to facilitate a mini workout even while at work. The bi-directional pedals have velcro straps to adjust according to user comfort and the removable LCD display comes with 6 functions to help you keep an eye on your speed, time, calories burnt, heart rate, and more. So, whether it is for rehabilitation or for fitness purposes, this is one of the best pedal exercisers for seniors. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this equipment for more information.
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to set up
- Whisper quiet operation
- Bi-directional pedals
- Adjustable straps for comfort
- Removable LCD display
Cons
- The pedals start to come off in some time due to improper threading.
Pro TipIt is best to place this exercise equipment on the rubber mat to get rid of unwanted scratches on the floor.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 6,794 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
4. Best Water-Resistant:Yes4All Foam Exercise/Balance Pad
Make your workout sessions extra productive with the Yes4All Foam Exercise/Balance Pad. Made with premium-quality TPE foam, this portable exercise equipment for seniors aids in gaining balance and strength while you workout. This anti-slip foam pad is multipurpose and can be used as a cushion for physiotherapy. It comes in 2 sizes for the convenience of the user, is sweat and waterproof, and can be cleaned after use. Whether rehabilitation, physical activity, or aiding in workouts, this balance and stability device for seniors comes in handy every time. Still not sure about the product? Check out the multiple rave reviews that boast of its quality and exceptional results.
Pros
- Slip resistant
- Water resistant
- Lightweight
- Multiple uses
- Enhances workouts
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Mya be a little thin
5. Best Ergonomic Design:JEEKEE Recumbent Home Exercise Bike
Home workouts will seem as easy as a breeze with JEEKEE Recumbent Home Exercise Bike. With a long frame, this exercise equipment for balance for senior citizens has 9 comfortable seat positions to fit users in the height range 4’9” – 6’5”. It has 8 neodymium magnets which enhance the resistance of the bike, making for a smoother and quieter workout. A large seat and backrest keep your spine and tailbone from strain and the recumbent design helps build endurance and strength while improving blood circulation and keeping the joints pain-free. Many reviews indicate that you can also track your workout using the LCD screen which adds to making this one of the best exercise peddlers for seniors.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Smooth belt system
- Quiet while operation
- 8 resistance levels
- LCD display for tracking
Cons
- Some may find the assembly difficult.
Eva Rodriguez, a NASM-certified personal trainer, and a Certified Life and Weight Loss Coach, mentions, “Recumbent bikes allow you to exercise your thighs, calves, and glute muscles with less strain than an upright bike. Since recumbent bikes put less strain on your joints, this piece of equipment is ideal if you have arthritis or joint pain.”
6. Best For Quiet Workouts:Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike
The Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike offers infinite slide seat adjustment compared to other bikes that have fixed seat positions. In this way, you can place your legs in a comfortable position according to your height. It features 16 levels of magnetic adjustable resistance that can be adjusted during the workout. The dual-belt system facilitates an easy, smooth, and quiet workout session. It even comes with a wide LED display to help you track your status, like time, speed, calories burned, pulse, and odometer. Plus, this exercise bike comes with a thick, plush cushion that offers you excellent support and proper posture and puts less strain on your joints. It is equipped with two wheels and Bluetooth technology.
Pros
- LED display with backlight
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Adjustable seat
- Free fitness data app
- Quiet functioning
- Comfortable
Cons
- Might be wobbly
"I've been using this bike for quite some time now and love it. Its assembly is straightforward and easy. It is compact and works quietly. It is very comfortable and has a solid construction."
7. Best Easy To Use:LifePro FlexStride Plus Elliptical Trainer
Convenience is key when older adults work out, and LifePro FlexStride Plus Elliptical Trainer offers just that. This leg exercise machine for seniors is compact and can be transported easily to use anywhere. It has 8 resistance levels that are calibrated, keeping in mind the user’s needs. In addition, the LifePro FlexStride Plus undergoes rigorous quality control testing to ensure its durability and safety for seniors. Elliptical trainers for seniors are great for overall exercising, and you can use this compact elliptical for seniors to burn calories, boost metabolism, and improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage after a workout session while tracking all this on the LCD monitor provided on the workout equipment.
Pros
- Portable
- 8 resistance levels
- Wide non-slip pedals
- LCD display monitor
- Compact and convenient
Cons
- Tends to slip away while pedalling
8. Best Non-Slip Handle Bars:Sunny Health & Fitness Recovery Walking Treadmill
The Sunny Health & Fitness Recovery Walking Treadmill, as the name suggests, is for those who are recuperating and need to be careful in their workouts. This joint-friendly workout tool for the elderly and young adults has a low-lying deck with shock absorption that does not strain the joints while you work out. The digital monitor on the front helps you track the calories, time, speed, distance covered, mode, etc. while the padded handrails keep you from slipping mid-workout and provide additional support. With a 2.5 peak horsepower motor that can run at a speed range of 0.6 mph to 5 mph, this walking aid for older adults is perhaps one of the best home exercise equipment that can be used by young adults as well.
Pros
- Portable
- Non-slip padded handlebars
- Low lying shock-absorbent deck
- Digital display panel
- Strong motor
- Emergency stop clip
Cons
- The self-installation process can be time taking and tedious.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 633 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
9. Best For Fitness:HARISON Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Seniors can now work out at home with ease and convenience with the HARISON Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike. This sitting exercise machine for elderly people helps to improve the strength of the whole body and maintain fitness. This stationary bike has 14 magnetic resistance levels and the slide rail at the bottom lets you adjust the seat according to your convenience. With a tablet and water bottle holder, your entertainment and thirst are taken care of, while the LCD display screen on this elderly exercise equipment lets you track the progress you make as you workout.
Pros
- Portable and convenient
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- 14 resistance levels
- Adjustable seat and backrest
- LCD display screen
- Features tablet and bottle holder
Cons
- The equipment may be noisy.
10. Best Multipurpose:Healthy Seniors Chair Exercise Program – Resistance Bands
The Healthy Seniors Chair Exercise Program brings to you a set of resistance bands for seniors’ therapy and workouts. This exercise equipment for seniors at home is developed by a physical therapist specifically for people looking for rehab and older adults. One box of this chair-based exercise contains an exercise guide booklet, a set of handles for better grip, and a set of resistance bands. One can build strength, stability, and flexibility at their own pace, using either the low-intensity band or the medium-intensity band according to one’s convenience. So, whether it is pilates, yoga, warm-up, regular workout, or recovery and therapy, this upper body low-impact exercise equipment and chair exercises for seniors help you do it all while sitting.
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to use
- Low impact and safe
- Multipurpose
- Exercise booklet provided
- Handles provided
- Great for gifting
Cons
- The bands might start coming apart upon rigorous usage.
Choosing The Best Exercise Equipment For Seniors- Buying Guide
- Trial before purchase
Before you purchase exercise equipment, it is best to try it out at a fitness centre/gym or some place else. It makes one aware of the equipment they are about to buy.
- Compatibility
It is important to ensure that the equipment is compatible with one’s height and weight to reap the maximum benefits of a workout and avoid the risk of injuries.
- Easy to install
When you set out to buy exercise equipment, you should make sure that it comes with a guide with a clear set of instructions to help the user assemble the machine without any problems.
- Easy operation
The exercise equipment that you wish to buy should be easy to operate and should not end up confusing the user as to how it should be used. Make sure to read the user manual or watch instructional videos to make sure you are using the equipment the right way.
- Plan before buying
Before buying a piece of exercise equipment for oneself, one should chalk out a routine and fit the machine into it so that you reap the maximum benefits of the workout done on it.
Tips To Stay Away From Injury While Using Exercise Equipment
- Full-body fitness should be the goal rather than just cardio, balance, flexibility, or strength training alone.
- Do not overdo any exercise. Know your limits and stick to it strictly.
- Drink lots of fluids pre and post-workout to prevent dehydration and other problems.
- Take adequate breaks in between exercises to avoid strain and overexertion.
- Wear comfortable clothes that won’t get in the way of your exercise or get stuck onto the equipment and cause an accident.
- Always read the user’s manual or watch an instruction video before trying out new equipment to know how to operate it.
- If the exercise equipment has been installed at home, make sure to double-check the stability to avoid accidents.
- Consider seeking guidance from a fitness instructor or a fitness coach for hands-on experience and insider tips on using exercise equipment safely. Their expertise can provide valuable insights into proper form, and technique, and prevent risk of injury.
Exercising and keeping oneself fit is very important for people of all ages. But as one grows older, the physical capability and strength of the body tend to reduce, hence limiting the scope of heavy workouts. Moreover, venturing out to the gym and the park for exercising and walking also depends on many factors like weather, means of transport, or simply the willingness of the individual to step out. But a man has to do what a man has to do to stay agile and active despite advancing age. Hence, developing a workout routine at home is necessary and exercise equipment for seniors comes in as a respite. So, all you have to do is pull your socks up, play a groovy track, and get going on the best exercise equipment for seniors right in the cozy comfort of your home!
Infographic: Fitness Safety Tips For Seniors
No matter your age, keeping your body fit and healthy must always be a priority. However, the older your body is, the weaker it is, and the slower its recovery process is. Following some safety precautions while going about your fitness regimen is the smart thing to do. We have listed fitness safety tips for seniors in the infographic below. Scroll down to check it out.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
The Bottom Line
Maintaining fitness is important at any age. There are different home exercise equipment for seniors like treadmills, exercise bikes, and ellipticals that help in improving flexibility and increasing strength and endurance. These exercise machines are available with different fitness levels and other adjustments. These low-impact home gym exercise equipment help achieve balance and are also used in the rehabilitation of patients who are recovering after a serious injury. If you want to improve balance and core stability, go for the Bosu Home Balance Trainer, for something convenient while working or sitting, opt for the DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser, and try the Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike for a comfortable and low-impact cardio exercise at home. Adding the home gym exercise machines to your workout routine will keep you motivated. These easy exercise equipment for seniors are easy to assemble, portable, and convenient. The buying guide will help you pick the best equipment for your workout needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is treadmill good for seniors?
Yes, treadmills help set up an easy home workout routine for seniors as they can choose the speed and time of walking without having to worry about the weather conditions and other factors.
What exercise equipment should older adults avoid?
Using weights for deadlifts and squats, using the leg press machine, extensive stair climbing, and long runs are things that older adults must avoid to keep away from injuries.
What are the pros and cons of exercise equipment for seniors?
Using exercise equipments at home with advancing age might have its advantages and disadvantages. Let us have a look at them both to help decide better before making a pick for oneself:
Are ellipticals good for seniors?
Yes, an elliptical is an ideal workout device for seniors who want to stay fit and need limited mobility. You can opt for the LifePro FlexStride Plus Elliptical Trainer to boost your metabolism and overall well being.
Is riding a stationary bike better than walking?
Cycling can be better for burning calories and it can help you increase your lower body strength whereas, walking is a cost-efficient method to maintain bone density. Riding a stationary bike will give you the same effects as riding a bike with the added bonus that it puts less pressure on your joints.
Are weight machines good for seniors?
Yes, weight machines are good for seniors to maintain muscle mass and improve bone and joint health.
Are manual treadmills good for seniors?
Treadmills with safety features are the best and a manual treadmill needs more muscle mass to operate and burn more calories, but they are technologically simple. Some seniors find it easier to use while others don’t.
How often should a senior work out?
A senior is usually recommended to work out for 30 minutes 5 days a week.
What workout can help seniors improve their balance?
You can use the Yes4All Foam Exercise/Balance Pad to perform workouts such as single limb stance, rock the boat, back leg raise, etc.
What are some tips for working out at home?
Choose a safe place for your workout to prevent accidents. Use gym equipment and your workout devices only after you know the correct way to use them. Keep your equipment clean and have somebody available at earshot when you work out so that you can easily seek help if there is any mishap.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shreya Vishwanathan, is a fitness enthusiast who loves to review different products. She went through numerous user reviews and on multiple online forums and websites to curate this list of the best exercise equipment for seniors to help them stay in good shape. She also considered parameters like safety, quality, ease of use, and functionality before shortlisting the products. The products listed in this article help improve the strength of the body and maintain fitness.
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