Category: Best Picks

  • 10 Best Meal-Prep Containers and Tools

    10 Best Meal-Prep Containers and Tools

    In short: The best meal-prep containers hold one meal-sized portion, seal tightly and can go from fridge or freezer to microwave. Our top three are the Pyrex Simply Store 10-piece Meal Prep Set (five 3-cup glass containers for $32.69, for people who reheat at work), the Snapware Total Solution 10-piece Plastic Meal Prep Kit (five 3-cup containers for $16.99 with a limited lifetime warranty, for the best value) and the Pyrex MealBox 4-cup Divided Set (glass with a main-dish and side compartment, for keeping portions separate). Two kitchen tools round out the list: a glass measuring cup set and a freezable lunch bag.

    We research; we don’t test. Every spec below is maker-stated, copied from the maker’s own store on October 7, 2026, with the price shown that day, and we searched the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall database for every brand. Nothing here is sold by InstaTuck, and the order never depends on commissions. Containers don’t cause weight loss. What they do is make the plan you’ve already chosen easy to follow: cook once, portion it out, and the right-sized lunch is waiting in the fridge. For what to put in them, start with our nutrition hub.

    The 10 best meal-prep containers and tools

    8 containers and 2 tools, ranked

    1. 1. Pyrex Simply Store 10-piece Meal Prep Rectangular Glass Storage Set

      Best for Reheating lunch at work in glass

      • Five 3-cup tempered glass containers with lids
      • containers dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe
      • BPA-free lids top-rack dishwasher safe
      • 2-year limited warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $32.69 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Plastic lids must be vented or removed in the microwave and never go in the oven

    2. 2. Snapware Total Solution 10-piece Rectangular Plastic Meal Prep Kit

      Best for The best value for a week of lunches

      • Five 3-cup BPA-free plastic containers
      • airtight, leak-proof lids with 4 locking tabs
      • top-rack dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe
      • made in USA
      • limited lifetime warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $16.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Tomato and acidic sauces can stain plastic (maker's care guide); one compartment only

    3. 3. Pyrex MealBox 10-Piece Divided Storage Set, 4 Cup

      Best for Keeping a main dish and a side apart

      • Five 4-cup divided glass containers (one large, one small compartment)
      • airtight, leak-proof locking BPA-free lids
      • microwave and dishwasher safe

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $39.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The page doesn't state freezer use; the priciest glass set here

    4. 4. Bentgo Prep 3-Compartment Meal Prep Containers (20-Piece)

      Best for Portioning protein, grain and vegetables

      • Ten 4-cup trays: one 2-cup and two 1-cup compartments
      • embossed measurements
      • free of PFAS, BPA, vinyl, lead and PVC
      • freezer and microwave (trays only) safe

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $14.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Lids must come off to microwave; hand-wash lids recommended

    5. 5. Bentgo Glass Lunch Container

      Best for A glass bento you can bake in

      • 5 cups total (one 3-cup and two 1-cup compartments)
      • leak-proof locking lid, including between compartments
      • glass safe in dishwasher, microwave, oven and freezer

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $19.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback One container per purchase; doesn't fit the Bentgo insulated bag

    6. 6. Bentgo MicroSteel Lunch Box

      Best for Stainless steel that can still be microwaved

      • 5-cup stainless container
      • microwave safe (container only)
      • oven safe to 350 °F
      • freezer safe
      • removable divider

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $29.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Not leak-proof between compartments; hand-wash the lid

    7. 7. Stasher Stand-Up Mid Bag

      Best for Freezing soups, chili and marinades without plastic bags

      • 56 fl oz (1,656 mL) platinum silicone
      • no BPA, BPS, lead, latex or phthalates (maker-stated)
      • dishwasher, microwave, freezer and oven safe to 425 °F
      • Pinch-Loc seal

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $24.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Costs more than plastic bags or boxes; returns within 30 days

    8. 8. BODi Portion-Control 7-Piece Container Kit

      Best for Following a color-coded portion plan

      • 7 color-coded containers for vegetables, fruit, protein, carbs, fats and dressings
      • BPA-free and DEHP-free
      • top-rack dishwasher and microwave safe

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $5.00 (sale; regular $9.95) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The page doesn't list each container's capacity; final sale, no returns

    9. 9. Pyrex Smart Essentials Glass Measuring Cup Set

      Best for Measuring portions as you fill containers

      • 1-cup and 2-cup tempered glass cups
      • red measurement markings
      • safe in a preheated oven, microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher
      • 2-year limited warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $15.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Liquid-style cups, less precise for dry foods than a scale

    10. 10. PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag

      Best for Keeping lunch cold without ice packs

      • Freezable gel built into the walls (freeze overnight, 8 hours for best results)
      • fits a bento box and a 12 oz drink
      • 8.5 x 6.25 x 9.75 in open
      • "30 Day Guarantee" and 90-day warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $26.99 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The page doesn't say how many hours it stays cold; needs freezer space

    All 10 picks side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Pyrex Simply Store 10-piece Meal Prep Rectangular Glass Storage SetReheating lunch at work in glassFive 3-cup tempered glass containers with lids; containers dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe; BPA-free lids top-rack dishwasher safe; 2-year limited warranty$32.69Oct 7, 2026
    2Snapware Total Solution 10-piece Rectangular Plastic Meal Prep KitThe best value for a week of lunchesFive 3-cup BPA-free plastic containers; airtight, leak-proof lids with 4 locking tabs; top-rack dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe; made in USA; limited lifetime warranty$16.99Oct 7, 2026
    3Pyrex MealBox 10-Piece Divided Storage Set, 4 CupKeeping a main dish and a side apartFive 4-cup divided glass containers (one large, one small compartment); airtight, leak-proof locking BPA-free lids; microwave and dishwasher safe$39.99Oct 7, 2026
    4Bentgo Prep 3-Compartment Meal Prep Containers (20-Piece)Portioning protein, grain and vegetablesTen 4-cup trays: one 2-cup and two 1-cup compartments; embossed measurements; free of PFAS, BPA, vinyl, lead and PVC; freezer and microwave (trays only) safe$14.99Oct 7, 2026
    5Bentgo Glass Lunch ContainerA glass bento you can bake in5 cups total (one 3-cup and two 1-cup compartments); leak-proof locking lid, including between compartments; glass safe in dishwasher, microwave, oven and freezer$19.99Oct 7, 2026
    6Bentgo MicroSteel Lunch BoxStainless steel that can still be microwaved5-cup stainless container; microwave safe (container only); oven safe to 350 °F; freezer safe; removable divider$29.99Oct 7, 2026
    7Stasher Stand-Up Mid BagFreezing soups, chili and marinades without plastic bags56 fl oz (1,656 mL) platinum silicone; no BPA, BPS, lead, latex or phthalates (maker-stated); dishwasher, microwave, freezer and oven safe to 425 °F; Pinch-Loc seal$24.99Oct 7, 2026
    8BODi Portion-Control 7-Piece Container KitFollowing a color-coded portion plan7 color-coded containers for vegetables, fruit, protein, carbs, fats and dressings; BPA-free and DEHP-free; top-rack dishwasher and microwave safe$5.00 (sale; regular $9.95)Oct 7, 2026
    9Pyrex Smart Essentials Glass Measuring Cup SetMeasuring portions as you fill containers1-cup and 2-cup tempered glass cups; red measurement markings; safe in a preheated oven, microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher; 2-year limited warranty$15.99Oct 7, 2026
    10PackIt Freezable Lunch BagKeeping lunch cold without ice packsFreezable gel built into the walls (freeze overnight, 8 hours for best results); fits a bento box and a 12 oz drink; 8.5 x 6.25 x 9.75 in open; "30 Day Guarantee" and 90-day warranty$26.99Oct 7, 2026
    Maker price on October 7, 2026Values in USD
    Maker price on October 7, 2026
    ItemValue
    BODi Portion-Control kit (sale)$5 USD
    Bentgo Prep 3-Compartment (20 pc)$14.99 USD
    Pyrex measuring cups$15.99 USD
    Snapware meal prep kit (10 pc)$16.99 USD
    Bentgo Glass Lunch$19.99 USD
    Stasher Stand-Up Mid$24.99 USD
    PackIt Freezable Lunch Bag$26.99 USD
    Bentgo MicroSteel$29.99 USD
    Pyrex Simply Store meal prep (10 pc)$32.69 USD
    Pyrex MealBox 4-cup (10 pc)$39.99 USD

    List or sale prices on the makers' own stores; a 10-piece set is 5 containers plus 5 lids. Prices change often.

    Source: Each maker's own store (Pyrex Home, Bentgo, Stasher, BODi, PackIt) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    How we ranked them

    We followed our gear order. Safety came first. On October 7, 2026, we searched CPSC recalls for Pyrex, Snapware, Corelle, Instant Brands, Bentgo, Stasher, BODi and Beachbody, and PackIt, and found no recall of any food-storage container, measuring cup or lunch bag from these brands. We also chose only products whose makers state the material and say which appliances each part can go in, because a lid that warps in the microwave or a glass dish that cracks in a hot oven is the most likely way a container goes wrong.

    Fit for meal prep came next: a meal-sized capacity (about 3 to 5 cups), a sealed lid and freezer-to-microwave use. That is why the 3-cup glass and plastic sets lead. Divided containers follow because compartments make portions visible, but some can’t be frozen or microwaved with the lid on. Then we compared specs against price, then warranty and returns: Snapware offers a limited lifetime warranty, Pyrex 2 years with 90-day returns on its own store, Bentgo a “60 day money back guarantee” on its own store, Stasher free returns within 30 days, PackIt a “30 Day Guarantee” and a 90-day warranty, and the BODi kit is final sale. The two tools come last because they support the containers rather than replace them.

    A container is a portion: what fits in a cup

    Most of these containers are measured in cups, and that makes them a quiet portion-control tool. The catch is that a cup of one food is not a cup of another. A cup of cooked brown rice has about 248 calories, a cup of cooked broccoli about 55 and a cup of whole almonds about 828, according to USDA data. Fill a 2-cup compartment with rice and that’s nearly 500 calories before you add anything else; fill it with vegetables and it’s closer to 110.

    Calories in 1 cup of common meal-prep foodsValues in kcal
    Calories in 1 cup of common meal-prep foods
    ItemValue
    Romaine lettuce, shredded8 kcal
    Broccoli, cooked55 kcal
    Sweet potato, baked180 kcal
    Spaghetti, cooked196 kcal
    Quinoa, cooked222 kcal
    Black beans, cooked227 kcal
    Chicken breast, roasted, diced231 kcal
    Brown rice, cooked248 kcal
    Almonds, whole828 kcal

    Same container, very different calories. Fill the biggest compartment with vegetables and use the small ones for grains, nuts and sauces.

    Source: USDA FoodData Central (SR Legacy), cup weights from the USDA portion table; InstaTuck calculation (checked on October 7, 2026)

    A simple way to use this: put vegetables in the largest compartment, protein in another (for reference, a cup of diced roasted chicken breast has about 43 grams of protein and 231 calories) and a measured scoop of grains or beans in the smallest. The Bentgo Prep trays, with one 2-cup and two 1-cup sections, are built for exactly this split. To set the numbers for your own meals, the macro calculator splits your daily calories into protein, carbs and fat, the calorie calculator estimates how many calories you need, and the protein calculator suggests a daily protein target. If you track food, enter each prep recipe once in your food-tracking app and log one container per meal. Measuring cups are fine for grains and liquids; for nuts, oils and cheese, a kitchen scale is far more accurate.

    Keep meal prep safe: the USDA rules

    Meal prep means cooked food sits in the fridge for days, so storage matters as much as the container. The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service says bacteria grow fastest between 40 °F and 140 °F. Its advice is short and practical:

    Cook, cool, store, reheat

    1. Cook to a safe temperaturePoultry to 165 °F and ground meats to 160 °F, checked with a food thermometer.
    2. Refrigerate within 2 hoursOr within 1 hour if it's above 90 °F, such as at a summer picnic.
    3. Use shallow containersDivide big batches into smaller, shallow containers so food cools quickly; cover or seal them.
    4. Eat within 3 to 4 daysOr freeze. Frozen leftovers stay safe indefinitely but are best within 3 to 4 months.
    5. Reheat to 165 °FCover and stir or rotate in the microwave, and check in several places.

    Meal-prep food safety in numbers

    • 2 hoursthe limit for cooked food at room temperature before it goes in the fridge (1 hour above 90 °F)USDA FSIS
    • 3-4 dayshow long leftovers keep in the refrigerator; 3 to 4 months frozen for best qualityUSDA FSIS
    • 165 °Fthe internal temperature for reheating leftoversUSDA FSIS
    • 40 °Fthe refrigerator temperature to keep at or below; freezer at 0 °FFoodSafety.gov

    Checked on October 7, 2026

    FoodSafety.gov’s cold-storage chart adds a few prep-friendly specifics: cooked meat or poultry leftovers keep 3 to 4 days in the fridge and 2 to 6 months frozen, soups and stews 3 to 4 days (2 to 3 months frozen), and hard-cooked eggs 1 week (don’t freeze them). This is where a lunch bag earns its place: it keeps food cold between your fridge and the one at work. Plan a 4-day prep (Sunday cooking covers Monday to Wednesday or Thursday) and freeze the rest.

    How to choose meal-prep containers

    • Size. About 3 cups suits one lunch or dinner; 4 to 5 cups suits bigger appetites or divided meals. Small 1-cup containers work for snacks, sauces and portioned nuts.
    • Glass, plastic, steel or silicone. Glass doesn’t stain or hold odors and can often go in the oven, but it’s heavier and can break. Plastic is light and cheap. Stainless steel is durable, and Bentgo says its MicroSteel container (not the lid) is microwave safe. Silicone bags fold flat and freeze well.
    • Read the appliance rules for each part. On every set here, the container and the lid have different rules. Pyrex says plastic lids are for fridge, freezer and microwave (vented or removed), never the oven. Bentgo says to microwave its Prep trays without the lids.
    • Compartments or not. Divided containers make portions visible and keep sauces apart. Single-compartment boxes hold more and are easier to clean.
    • Count. Five containers covers a work week of lunches. Plan for the days you’ll actually eat the food within 3 to 4 days.
    • Warranty and returns. They range from a limited lifetime warranty (Snapware) to final sale (BODi kit), so check before you buy.

    What a container can’t do

    A container controls how much goes in, not what goes in. A perfectly portioned box of fried rice is still fried rice. Meal prep helps weight loss when the meals inside are filling and fit your calorie deficit; ideas for that are in our most filling foods list, our high-protein breakfasts (several, like overnight oats and frittata muffins, are made to be prepped ahead) and the high-protein diet guide. If you’d rather not cook at all, compare meal delivery for weight loss. And if measuring every portion makes eating feel stressful, it’s fine to use containers loosely, or to talk with a clinician or dietitian about other approaches.

    Safety: materials, BPA and glass

    In the U.S., materials that touch food are regulated by the FDA. A food-contact substance that counts as a food additive must be authorized for its use before it’s sold, and the FDA’s review includes testing data on how much of the substance migrates into food. On BPA, the FDA’s current position is that it is safe at the levels now found in foods; it no longer allows BPA-based materials in baby bottles, sippy cups and infant formula packaging because makers abandoned those uses. “BPA-free” and “PFAS-free” on this list are claims made by the makers; we did not test them.

    Storage time can matter for safety in another way. On April 30, 2026, Thermos recalled about 8.2 million Stainless King food jars (models SK3000 and SK3020) and Sportsman bottles (SK3010): if perishable food or drinks were stored in them for a long time, the stopper could shoot out when opened. Thermos had 27 reports of people struck by stoppers, and three people lost vision permanently. No Thermos product is on this list. The meal-prep lesson is simple: don’t leave perishable food sealed in any container longer than the 2-hour and 3-to-4-day limits above, and look up your exact model on the CPSC recalls site from time to time.

    What we left out, and why

    • Rubbermaid Brilliance and OXO Good Grips Smart Seal / Prep & Go. Well-known lines, but both makers’ sites blocked our checks, so we couldn’t confirm current specs, prices or availability on their own pages.
    • Ziploc containers. The maker’s site refused our requests, so we couldn’t verify the product pages.
    • Sistema and Anchor Hocking. Their U.S. sites list products but send shoppers to other stores, with no maker price.
    • Glasslock Oven Safe sets. Sold on the maker’s U.S. store, but the product pages list only capacities, without microwave, dishwasher or oven-temperature guidance.
    • PlanetBox stainless lunch boxes. Available and well made, but the line is designed for children’s lunches.
    • A sheet pan. Nordic Ware’s store blocked our checks; any rimmed half-sheet pan you already own works for sheet-pan meal prep.

    For more equipment, see our gear guides, and for the bigger picture of eating well while losing weight, the nutrition hub and our healthy snacks guide, which pair well with the small 1-cup containers.

  • 10 Best Under-Desk Bikes and Ellipticals (2026): Researched Picks

    10 Best Under-Desk Bikes and Ellipticals (2026): Researched Picks

    In short: For most desks, our top researched pick is the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Under Desk Mini Elliptical (SF-E323017), because its pedals rise only 6.9 inches at the highest point, so it fits under low desks, and it has 8 magnetic resistance levels for about $170. If you want a stated 300 lb user limit and a carry handle, the Cubii Go ($299 list price) is built for moving between rooms. On a tight budget, the Sunny Smart Low-profile Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike (SF-B0891SMART) ($140) works for legs at the desk or arms on a table. Specs and prices are maker-stated and were checked on October 7, 2026.

    An under-desk bike or elliptical lets you pedal while you sit at your desk, on a call or in front of the TV. It is a small, quiet way to follow the first key message of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans: move more and sit less. Our gear hub covers the other home equipment we research. If you can stand while you work, a walking pad is the other main option, and our list of the best walking pads compares those. We research; we don’t test, and we have not used these machines ourselves.

    The picks

    On October 7, 2026 we searched the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalls for every brand on this list: Sunny Health & Fitness, Cubii, Stamina, Vive Health and LifeSpan. We found no recall or warning for any under-desk bike or elliptical from these brands. Two older recalls touch a brand on the list but not a listed product (details in the safety section). Specs come from each maker’s own product page, manual or comparison page on the same day.

    10 under-desk bikes and ellipticals, researched

    1. 1. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Under Desk Mini Elliptical (SF-E323017)

      Best for Most desks, including low ones

      • Pedal height 3.4 to 6.9 in
      • 8 magnetic resistance levels
      • 7 in stride
      • 23.8 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $170 to $220 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No maximum user weight on the maker page; other parts are covered for 180 days

    2. 2. Cubii Go

      Best for Moving it between desk and sofa

      • 8 resistance levels
      • 300 lb maximum user weight
      • 24.5 x 17.25 x 9 in, 19.4 lb, with handle and wheels

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $299 list (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Cubii's site sends you to Amazon to buy, and its product page says 10 levels while the manual says 8

    3. 3. Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Strider (55-1610)

      Best for A stated weight limit at a modest price

      • 250 lb maximum user weight
      • 24.5 x 17 x 11.38 in
      • 24 lb steel frame

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $187 to $250 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The maker page doesn't list resistance levels; parts are covered for 90 days

    4. 4. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Low-profile Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike (SF-B0891SMART)

      Best for A tight budget; arms or legs

      • 8 magnetic resistance levels
      • 21.3 x 16.53 x 10.43 in
      • 19.1 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $140 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback A pedaling circle needs more knee room than a flat elliptical glide

    5. 5. Cubii Move

      Best for The lightest unit to carry

      • 6 resistance levels
      • 300 lb maximum user weight
      • 21.7 x 19.7 x 9.7 in, 17.6 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $199 list (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No handle, the fewest levels here, and app data is entered by hand

    6. 6. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical (SF-E3872SMART)

      Best for A longer elliptical stroke

      • 8 magnetic resistance levels
      • 7 in stride
      • pedal height 3.5 to 10.9 in
      • 25 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $200 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Pedals rise to 10.9 in, so it needs a taller desk; no user weight limit listed

    7. 7. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Under Desk Cycle (SF-B024973)

      Best for The most resistance settings

      • 16 magnetic resistance levels
      • 3.3 lb flywheel
      • 21.3 x 16.5 x 10.6 in, 18 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $160 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback A small flywheel; check knee room under your desk

    8. 8. Vive Health Pedal Exerciser

      Best for The lowest price

      • 220 lb weight limit
      • 16 in long, 12.5 in tall
      • knob tension

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $80 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The tallest unit here (pedal tops near 13 in) and the lowest weight limit

    9. 9. Stamina WIRK Under Desk Exercise Bike (85-1200)

      Best for A monitor you can keep on the desk

      • 8 magnetic resistance levels
      • wireless desk monitor
      • 23.5 x 12 x 11 in, 21 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $220 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No maximum user weight on the maker page; parts are covered for 90 days

    10. 10. LifeSpan Ampera Office Bike

      Best for Replacing your desk chair

      • 300 lb maximum user weight
      • riders 5 ft to 6 ft 5 in
      • up to 65 W pedal power for charging
      • 10-year frame warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $1,099 to $1,299 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Costs several times the others and weighs 68 lb

    All 10 picks compared

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Under Desk Mini Elliptical (SF-E323017)Most desks, including low onesPedal height 3.4 to 6.9 in; 8 magnetic resistance levels; 7 in stride; 23.8 lb$170 to $220Oct 7, 2026
    2Cubii GoMoving it between desk and sofa8 resistance levels; 300 lb maximum user weight; 24.5 x 17.25 x 9 in, 19.4 lb, with handle and wheels$299 listOct 7, 2026
    3Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Strider (55-1610)A stated weight limit at a modest price250 lb maximum user weight; 24.5 x 17 x 11.38 in; 24 lb steel frame$187 to $250Oct 7, 2026
    4Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Low-profile Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike (SF-B0891SMART)A tight budget; arms or legs8 magnetic resistance levels; 21.3 x 16.53 x 10.43 in; 19.1 lb$140Oct 7, 2026
    5Cubii MoveThe lightest unit to carry6 resistance levels; 300 lb maximum user weight; 21.7 x 19.7 x 9.7 in, 17.6 lb$199 listOct 7, 2026
    6Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical (SF-E3872SMART)A longer elliptical stroke8 magnetic resistance levels; 7 in stride; pedal height 3.5 to 10.9 in; 25 lb$200Oct 7, 2026
    7Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Under Desk Cycle (SF-B024973)The most resistance settings16 magnetic resistance levels; 3.3 lb flywheel; 21.3 x 16.5 x 10.6 in, 18 lb$160Oct 7, 2026
    8Vive Health Pedal ExerciserThe lowest price220 lb weight limit; 16 in long, 12.5 in tall; knob tension$80Oct 7, 2026
    9Stamina WIRK Under Desk Exercise Bike (85-1200)A monitor you can keep on the desk8 magnetic resistance levels; wireless desk monitor; 23.5 x 12 x 11 in, 21 lb$220Oct 7, 2026
    10LifeSpan Ampera Office BikeReplacing your desk chair300 lb maximum user weight; riders 5 ft to 6 ft 5 in; up to 65 W pedal power for charging; 10-year frame warranty$1,099 to $1,299Oct 7, 2026

    Why these picks, and in this order

    Our gear lists put safety first, then fit for the job, then maker-stated specs against price, then warranty and returns, then data privacy for connected devices. Every pick cleared the recall check, so the order mostly reflects how well each one fits under a real desk and how much it gives you for the money.

    • Sunny SF-E323017 (1). Fit under the desk matters more than any other spec, and this elliptical has the lowest maker-stated pedal height we found (6.9 inches at the top of the stroke). It adds 8 magnetic levels, a carry handgrip and a 30-day money-back policy at a mid-range price. The missing weight limit is its main gap.
    • Cubii Go (2). It is only 9 inches tall, states a 300 lb maximum user weight in its manual, and has a retractable handle and wheels for moving it. It costs more, and you buy it through Amazon from Cubii’s site, so the return terms are that seller’s.
    • Stamina InMotion E1000 (3). One of the few low-cost units that states a weight limit (250 lb), at a sale price under $190.
    • Sunny SF-B0891SMART (4). The lowest-priced magnetic mini bike from a maker that states its warranty and return window. It can sit on a table for arm pedaling, too.
    • Cubii Move (5) and Sunny SF-E3872SMART (6). The Move is the lightest unit here (17.6 lb) with a 300 lb limit but only 6 levels. The SF-E3872SMART has a 7-inch stride, but its pedals rise to 10.9 inches.
    • Sunny SF-B024973 (7), Vive Pedal Exerciser (8) and Stamina WIRK (9). Each fills a narrower need: the most resistance levels (16), the lowest price ($80) or a wireless monitor that sits on the desk.
    • LifeSpan Ampera (10). It is a different kind of product: a seated desk bike that replaces your chair. It has the longest warranty here (10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor) and a stated rider height range, but costs nearly four times the next most expensive pick.

    Will it fit under your desk?

    The gap between your knees and the underside of your desk decides more than any other spec. Here is the height each maker lists for its unit. For pedal bikes, the pedal at the top of its circle can sit a little higher than the frame: Vive, for example, says its exerciser is 12.5 inches tall but the top of the toe hold reaches about 13 inches.

    Maker-stated height of each under-desk unitValues in in
    Maker-stated height of each under-desk unit
    ItemValue
    Sunny SF-E323017 (pedal top)6.90 in
    Cubii Go9 in
    Cubii Move9.70 in
    Sunny SF-B0891SMART10.43 in
    Sunny SF-B02497310.60 in
    Sunny SF-E3872SMART (pedal top)10.90 in
    Stamina WIRK11 in
    Stamina E100011.38 in
    Vive Pedal Exerciser12.50 in

    Lower is easier to fit under a desk. The LifeSpan Ampera is a desk bike you sit on, so it isn't shown.

    Source: Maker product pages and manuals (Sunny Health & Fitness, Cubii, Stamina, Vive Health) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Nine of the ten cost between $80 and $300. Paying more mostly buys a stated weight limit, a handle and wheels, an app connection or, with the Ampera, a full seat and a longer warranty.

    What desk pedaling can and can’t do for weight loss

    Under-desk pedaling is light activity. The 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities, which researchers use to estimate the energy cost of activities, rates computer work while sitting at 1.3 METs and sitting quietly at 1.0 MET. A pedal desk at light, general effort is rated 2.0 METs, and pedaling at 40 watts is rated 3.5 METs. Harder pedaling at 80 watts reaches 5.3 METs, but few people keep that up while typing.

    How hard desk activities are, in METsValues in METs
    How hard desk activities are, in METs
    ItemValue
    Sitting quietly1 METs
    Sitting, computer work1.3 METs
    Sitting, fidgeting feet1.8 METs
    Pedal desk, light general effort2 METs
    Treadmill desk, 1 to 2 mph2.8 METs
    Pedal desk, 40 watts3.5 METs
    Pedal desk, 80 watts5.3 METs

    1 MET is the energy you use sitting at rest. Treadmill desk walking is shown for comparison.

    Source: 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities (codes 07021, 11582, 07023, 11000, 11004, 11001, 11002) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Research on pedal machines at work looks mostly at whether people use them and at sitting time, not at weight. In a small 4-week study of 18 office workers, people used a portable pedal machine on about 12 of 20 workdays, for about 23 minutes on the days they used it, and said they sat less at work. A 12-week randomized trial in 40 office workers in France found improvements in LDL cholesterol measures in the group given pedal machines; it did not set out to measure weight loss.

    How much people actually pedaled at work

    Checked on October 7, 2026

    That is why an under-desk machine works best as one part of a plan. Pair it with a modest calorie deficit, brisker walks and strength training at least 2 days a week, as the Physical Activity Guidelines suggest alongside 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity. To estimate what an hour of light pedaling adds for your weight, try our calories burned calculator.

    How to choose between them

    1. Height first. Measure your knee gap and compare it with the heights above. Under a low desk, the SF-E323017 (6.9 in pedal top) or the Cubii Go (9 in) are the safest bets.
    2. Elliptical or bike. An elliptical’s flat glide needs less knee room and feels smoother while typing. A mini bike usually costs less and can go on a table for arm work.
    3. A stated weight limit. Only some makers list one: 300 lb (Cubii Go, Cubii Move, LifeSpan Ampera), 250 lb (Stamina E1000) and 220 lb (Vive). If yours isn’t listed, ask the maker before you buy.
    4. Resistance range. Magnetic resistance is quiet and doesn’t rub. More levels (16 on the SF-B024973) let you start very light and build up.
    5. Warranty and returns. Frame warranties run from 1 year (most picks) to 10 years (Ampera); parts coverage ranges from 90 days (Stamina) to 2 years (Ampera). Sunny and LifeSpan state 30-day return windows.
    6. Self-powered or motorized. All of these picks run on your own pedaling. Motorized “pedal” units that move your legs for you exist, but they do less of the work your muscles would do, so we left them off.

    Not sure whether to sit or stand while you move? Our walking pad vs treadmill comparison covers the standing options, and our list of low-impact workouts has gentle ways to move on days away from the desk.

    Safety and privacy: what to check

    Our CPSC search on October 7, 2026 found two recalls that involve brands on this list but not these products. Stamina recalled about 11,000 elliptical cross trainers (models 55-1772, 55-1725 and 55-1723) in July 2009 because the pedal shafts could loosen; the InMotion E1000 and WIRK are not among them. Vive Health recalled adult portable bed rails on March 26, 2026 after two deaths from entrapment; no Vive exercise product was included. We found no CPSC recalls for Cubii, Sunny Health & Fitness or LifeSpan under-desk machines.

    • Sit, don’t stand. Cubii’s manuals warn never to stand on the pedals and to use the unit only while sitting.
    • Start light. The manuals suggest starting at level 1 and building up. Begin with 10 to 20 minutes and see how your knees and hips feel.
    • Keep it tight. Check bolts and pedals from time to time; loose pedals were the problem in Stamina’s 2009 elliptical recall.
    • Apps are optional. Several picks connect to an app (SunnyFit, the Cubii app, müüv for Stamina). An app account can collect workout data, so read the privacy policy and turn off sharing you don’t want. The Vive and Stamina E1000 displays work without any account.

    If you have knee, hip or back pain, poor circulation, or a heart condition, or you are recovering from surgery, ask your clinician or physical therapist whether seated pedaling suits you and how much to start with.

    Pairing desk pedaling with other tools

    A step counter won’t count pedaling well, but many fitness trackers let you log a seated cycling session. If you want a full workout bike for harder sessions, see our list of the best exercise bikes for home weight loss, and our home gym essentials list covers small equipment that pairs well with it. Our exercise hub has more ways to move, the TDEE calculator shows how daily activity adds to your energy needs, and our guide to maintaining weight loss explains why everyday movement matters after the weight comes off.

    Sources and last checked

    Specifications, prices, warranties and return windows were read on each maker’s own pages on October 7, 2026: sunnyhealthfitness.com (SF-E323017, SF-B0891SMART, SF-E3872SMART, SF-B024973), cubii.com (Cubii Go and Cubii Move product pages, comparison page and owner’s manuals), staminaproducts.com (InMotion E1000, WIRK), vivehealth.com (Pedal Exerciser) and lifespanfitness.com (Ampera Office Bike). Recall checks were run on cpsc.gov the same day. The full list of references is below. Updated: first published October 2026.

  • 10 Best Fitness and Home Workout Apps (2026)

    10 Best Fitness and Home Workout Apps (2026)

    In short: The best workout app is the one that gets you doing both kinds of exercise the U.S. guidelines ask for: heart-pumping activity and muscle strengthening on at least 2 days a week. Our top researched pick is Caliber, a free strength app that logs every set and lists no cross-app tracking on its privacy label. If you want guided classes on an iPhone you already own, Apple Fitness+ ($79.99 a year) covers 12 workout types. If you want a plan that adjusts each session to your equipment and level, Fitbod leads among the paid strength planners.

    We research; we don’t test. For each app we read its U.S. App Store listing, in-app purchase prices, Apple privacy label and privacy policy on October 7, 2026, and searched PubMed for studies of the app itself. If you want to know which kinds of exercise help most with weight, start with our exercise for weight loss guide. If you are looking for specific routines rather than apps, our list of the best home workouts ranks the workouts themselves by energy cost and joint load. This page ranks the apps that deliver them. Calorie trackers live on a separate list, the best weight-loss and calorie-tracking apps.

    What any workout app should help you do

    The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans set the target every app on this list is measured against. Adults get substantial health benefits from 150 to 300 minutes a week of moderate activity, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity, plus muscle-strengthening work for all major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week. Older adults are also advised to include balance training. The guidelines add that physical activity reduces the risk of excessive weight gain and helps people maintain a healthy weight, and that any amount is better than none.

    The weekly targets, from the Physical Activity Guidelines

    Checked on October 7, 2026

    Every app here offers both strength work and cardio or interval training, so the evidence for the approach is the same for all ten. What the research says about apps themselves is more modest. A 2019 meta-analysis of randomized trials found that physical activity apps raised daily steps by about 477 on average, a gain that was not statistically significant, with the clearest effects in programs shorter than three months. A 2023 meta-analysis of 12 trials found small-to-moderate effects on body weight from app-based activity programs, and apps with reminders, self-reporting and a coach did better. In other words, the features that help you keep a record and keep going matter more than the brand. For a deeper look at the two types of exercise, see our comparison of cardio vs strength training.

    The 10 best fitness and home workout apps

    The 10 best fitness and home workout apps, ranked

    1. 1. Caliber: Strength Training

      Best for Free strength training you can log at home or in a gym

      • Free version lets you create and track unlimited workouts with 800+ exercises and form videos
      • syncs cardio, steps and body stats from Apple Health
      • privacy label has no "Data Used to Track You" section

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free; Caliber Plus $6 to $12 a month or $36 to $72 a year (App Store in-app prices) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Built around strength: cardio is logged from your watch or other apps rather than taught in classes; no published trial of the app itself

    2. 2. Apple Fitness+

      Best for Guided classes of many kinds on an iPhone you already own

      • 12 workout types, including HIIT, strength, yoga, Pilates, cycling, rowing and dance, from 5 to 45 minutes
      • the Fitness app shows your Move goal, workout history and trends
      • Fitness app privacy label has no "Data Used to Track You" section

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $9.99 a month or $79.99 a year; 1 month free for new subscribers (apple.com) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Apple devices only (iPhone 8 or later); no published trial of Fitness+ itself

    3. 3. Fitbod

      Best for Strength plans that adjust to your level and equipment

      • Builds each session around your fitness level and the equipment you have, including none
      • 1,000+ exercises with video walkthroughs
      • works with Apple Health, Apple Watch, Strava and Fitbit
      • privacy label lists usage data as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $12.99 to $15.99 a month; $79.99 to $95.99 a year (App Store in-app prices) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Free trial, then a subscription; its one published study, co-authored by a Fitbod employee, looked at who kept training rather than at results

    4. 4. Sweat

      Best for Women who want structured programs and a big community

      • Beginner to advanced programs: strength, HIIT, Pilates, yoga, barre, recovery, pregnancy and postnatal
      • log the weights you use and plan your week
      • privacy label lists identifiers as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $19.99 to $24.99 a month; $134.99 a year (App Store in-app prices) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback One of the higher yearly prices here; no published trial of the app itself

    5. 5. HIIT by Down Dog

      Best for Short bodyweight interval workouts that never repeat

      • 1,000+ exercises
      • you set total length, work and rest intervals and level, and can exclude moves such as jumps or planks
      • syncs with Apple Health
      • privacy label has no "Data Used to Track You" section

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $12.99 a month or $99.99 a year; All Access to the maker's apps $119.99 a year (App Store in-app prices) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback High-intensity intervals only, and no free tier listed; no published trial of the app itself

    6. 6. FitOn

      Best for A large library of free classes

      • Free cardio, strength, HIIT, dance, yoga, Pilates and barre classes with personalized plans
      • optional sync with the Health app
      • privacy label lists identifiers as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free; FitOn PRO $19.99 to $39.99 billed yearly (App Store in-app prices) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Fewer logging tools than the strength apps above; no published trial of the app itself

    7. 7. LES MILLS+

      Best for Group-fitness classes such as BODYPUMP at home

      • Strength, cardio and mind-body classes from 10 to 55 minutes
      • training schedules and progress tracking
      • privacy label lists usage data as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Base $14.99 a month or $89.99 a year; Premium $29.99 a month or $179.99 a year; 14-day free trial (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback In an 18-month trial, adding its home videos to an activity tracker did not raise activity levels

    8. 8. Centr

      Best for Coached plans with daily workouts chosen for you

      • Personalized plans for strength, HIIT, Pilates, yoga, boxing and HYROX training
      • workouts from 5 to 60 minutes
      • privacy label lists identifiers as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $15.99 to $29.99 a month; $119.99 to $152.99 a year; 7-day free trial (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No free tier after the 7-day trial; no published trial of the app itself

    9. 9. Peloton App

      Best for Live and on-demand classes, with or without equipment

      • Strength, indoor and outdoor running, cycling, yoga, HIIT and stretching
      • stream classes to a TV
      • Apple Watch app shows your stats
      • privacy label lists purchases, location and other data as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price App One $15.99 a month or $159 a year; App+ $28.99 a month or $289 a year (App Store in-app prices) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The highest yearly price on this list, and three tracking categories on its privacy label

    10. 10. Nike Training Club

      Best for Fully free training from Nike's coaches

      • Free strength, conditioning, HIIT, yoga, Pilates and recovery workouts for home or gym, plus weeks-long programs
      • syncs workouts with Apple Health
      • privacy label lists location, identifiers, usage data and sensitive info as used to track you

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (no in-app purchases listed) (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The most tracking categories of any app here; last updated May 19, 2026

    All 10 apps side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Caliber: Strength TrainingFree strength training you can log at home or in a gymFree version lets you create and track unlimited workouts with 800+ exercises and form videos; syncs cardio, steps and body stats from Apple Health; privacy label has no "Data Used to Track You" sectionFree; Caliber Plus $6 to $12 a month or $36 to $72 a year (App Store in-app prices)Oct 7, 2026
    2Apple Fitness+Guided classes of many kinds on an iPhone you already own12 workout types, including HIIT, strength, yoga, Pilates, cycling, rowing and dance, from 5 to 45 minutes; the Fitness app shows your Move goal, workout history and trends; Fitness app privacy label has no "Data Used to Track You" section$9.99 a month or $79.99 a year; 1 month free for new subscribers (apple.com)Oct 7, 2026
    3FitbodStrength plans that adjust to your level and equipmentBuilds each session around your fitness level and the equipment you have, including none; 1,000+ exercises with video walkthroughs; works with Apple Health, Apple Watch, Strava and Fitbit; privacy label lists usage data as used to track you$12.99 to $15.99 a month; $79.99 to $95.99 a year (App Store in-app prices)Oct 7, 2026
    4SweatWomen who want structured programs and a big communityBeginner to advanced programs: strength, HIIT, Pilates, yoga, barre, recovery, pregnancy and postnatal; log the weights you use and plan your week; privacy label lists identifiers as used to track you$19.99 to $24.99 a month; $134.99 a year (App Store in-app prices)Oct 7, 2026
    5HIIT by Down DogShort bodyweight interval workouts that never repeat1,000+ exercises; you set total length, work and rest intervals and level, and can exclude moves such as jumps or planks; syncs with Apple Health; privacy label has no "Data Used to Track You" section$12.99 a month or $99.99 a year; All Access to the maker's apps $119.99 a year (App Store in-app prices)Oct 7, 2026
    6FitOnA large library of free classesFree cardio, strength, HIIT, dance, yoga, Pilates and barre classes with personalized plans; optional sync with the Health app; privacy label lists identifiers as used to track youFree; FitOn PRO $19.99 to $39.99 billed yearly (App Store in-app prices)Oct 7, 2026
    7LES MILLS+Group-fitness classes such as BODYPUMP at homeStrength, cardio and mind-body classes from 10 to 55 minutes; training schedules and progress tracking; privacy label lists usage data as used to track youBase $14.99 a month or $89.99 a year; Premium $29.99 a month or $179.99 a year; 14-day free trialOct 7, 2026
    8CentrCoached plans with daily workouts chosen for youPersonalized plans for strength, HIIT, Pilates, yoga, boxing and HYROX training; workouts from 5 to 60 minutes; privacy label lists identifiers as used to track you$15.99 to $29.99 a month; $119.99 to $152.99 a year; 7-day free trialOct 7, 2026
    9Peloton AppLive and on-demand classes, with or without equipmentStrength, indoor and outdoor running, cycling, yoga, HIIT and stretching; stream classes to a TV; Apple Watch app shows your stats; privacy label lists purchases, location and other data as used to track youApp One $15.99 a month or $159 a year; App+ $28.99 a month or $289 a year (App Store in-app prices)Oct 7, 2026
    10Nike Training ClubFully free training from Nike's coachesFree strength, conditioning, HIIT, yoga, Pilates and recovery workouts for home or gym, plus weeks-long programs; syncs workouts with Apple Health; privacy label lists location, identifiers, usage data and sensitive info as used to track youFree (no in-app purchases listed)Oct 7, 2026

    How we ranked them

    We followed the published order for apps: evidence first, then self-monitoring, privacy, total cost and cancellation terms. All ten offer both strength and cardio-style training, so they tie on the evidence for the approach, and none has a trial showing that the app itself improves fitness or weight. Two have published research. LES MILLS+ was one arm of the ONWARDS randomized trial in Norway, where adding its home videos to an activity tracker made no difference to activity over 18 months, so that trial does not move it up. Fitbod’s study followed 389,481 app users and found that consistency in the first 28 days was the strongest predictor of who was still training a year later; it describes habits, not results, so it doesn’t move Fitbod up either.

    Self-monitoring decided the first split. Caliber, Apple Fitness+, Fitbod and Sweat let you record what you did in detail (sets and weights, or minutes toward a goal) and sync with Apple Health; the other six mainly record which workouts you finished. Within each group, apps whose privacy label lists no cross-app tracking come first, then cost. That is why Nike Training Club, which is completely free, sits at number 10: its label lists four categories of data used to track you, more than any other app here. If cost matters more to you than privacy, it is a very good free option.

    Feature matrix

    AppFree to useStrengthCardio or HIITYoga or mobilityLogs weights or setsTracking categories
    CaliberYes (free version)YesLogged from Apple HealthNot listedYes0
    Apple Fitness+1-month trialYesYesYesNo (minutes and Move goal)0
    FitbodTrialYesYesMobilityYes1
    SweatTrialYesYesYesYes (weights)1
    HIIT by Down DogNot listedBodyweightYesNot listedNo0
    FitOnYesYesYesYesNo1
    LES MILLS+14-day trialYesYesYesNo1
    Centr7-day trialYesYesYesNo1
    Peloton AppFree to tryYesYesYesNo3
    Nike Training ClubYes (all of it)YesYesYesNo (logs finished workouts)4
    From each app’s U.S. App Store description and privacy label, checked October 7, 2026. “Tracking categories” = data types listed under “Data Used to Track You”.

    What research on the apps themselves shows

    Checked on October 7, 2026

    Privacy: what each app says it shares

    Apple’s privacy labels are filled in by each developer, and every listing notes that the information has not been verified by Apple. They are still the quickest way to compare apps. “Data used to track you” means data that may be combined with data from other companies’ apps and websites, usually for advertising. Workout apps can hold sensitive details such as heart rate, body measurements and pregnancy status, so it’s worth a look before you sign up. We also read each privacy policy: Fitbod’s says it does not “sell” personal information as the California law defines it, Caliber’s says it does not sell or transfer personal information to outside parties without advance notice, and Down Dog’s says the minutes it sends to Apple Health are not shared with third parties or used for marketing.

    Data categories each app lists as 'used to track you'
    Data categories each app lists as 'used to track you'
    ItemValue
    Caliber0
    Apple Fitness0
    Down Dog HIIT0
    Fitbod1
    Sweat1
    FitOn1
    LES MILLS+1
    Centr1
    Peloton3
    Nike Training Club4

    Categories such as identifiers, usage data, location, purchases or sensitive info. Fewer is more private. Every app also collects some data linked to you to run the service.

    Source: Apple App Store privacy labels for each app (developer-reported, U.S. store) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    What a year costs

    Yearly prices listed in the U.S. App StoreValues in USD
    Yearly prices listed in the U.S. App Store
    ItemLowHigh
    FitOn PRO$19.99 USD$39.99 USD
    Caliber Plus$36 USD$72 USD
    Apple Fitness+$79.99 USD$79.99 USD
    Fitbod$79.99 USD$95.99 USD
    LES MILLS+$89.99 USD$179.99 USD
    Down Dog HIIT$99.99 USD$119.99 USD
    Centr$119.99 USD$152.99 USD
    Sweat$134.99 USD$134.99 USD
    Peloton App$159 USD$289 USD

    Yearly plans only. Nike Training Club is free with no in-app purchases. Lists can include introductory offers and higher tiers; Fitbod's older 'legacy pricing' plans are left out. Web and Android prices may differ.

    Source: Apple App Store in-app purchase lists for each app (U.S. store); Apple Fitness+ price from apple.com (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Cancellation works the same way for every in-app subscription: you turn off auto-renew in your App Store account settings at least 24 hours before the period ends. Several listings (FitOn, Centr and Peloton among them) note that you can’t cancel the current paid period partway through, so a yearly plan runs to its end. Peloton’s listing says that if you cancel during a month you won’t be charged for the next one. Use the free trial first, and set a reminder before it ends.

    How to choose a workout app

    Pick an app in four steps

    1. Start with what you'll doPrefer following a class? Try Apple Fitness+, FitOn or LES MILLS+. Prefer lifting at your own pace? Try Caliber or Fitbod.
    2. Check your equipmentBodyweight is enough to start. Bands or dumbbells widen your options in every app.
    3. Read the privacy labelOn the App Store page, scroll to App Privacy before you create an account.
    4. Give it four weeksEarly consistency predicted who was still training a year later, so plan 2 to 3 sessions a week from day one.

    If you are new to strength work, our strength training guide explains sets, reps and progression in plain language, and our picks for resistance bands, adjustable dumbbells and other home gym essentials cover the gear these apps use most. If your joints need a gentler start, the best low-impact workouts work well in any of these apps, and walking counts fully toward your weekly aerobic minutes. To see what a session burns, try our calories burned calculator.

    What a workout app can’t do

    An app can’t watch your form the way a trainer in the room can, and it can’t make you press start. The calorie numbers it shows are estimates. The guidelines say activity reduces the risk of excessive weight gain and helps people maintain a healthy weight; to lose weight, pair it with a calorie deficit from eating changes. Our guide to body recomposition explains how strength work and protein fit together while you lose. If you wear a watch or band, our best fitness trackers list covers the devices that feed these apps, and once you reach your goal, our guide to keeping weight off shows why staying active matters most.

  • Home Gym Essentials: 10 Best Pieces of Equipment Under $300

    Home Gym Essentials: 10 Best Pieces of Equipment Under $300

    In short: If you are building a home gym from scratch, start with three things: a set of dumbbells such as the CAP 50-lb Rubber Hex Dumbbell Set ($60 for two pairs), a Bodylastics 5 Band Basic Series Set ($36) that covers both very light and very heavy moves, and a cushioned Gaiam Essentials Fitness Mat ($25) for floor work. Together they cost about $121 and cover the twice-a-week strength training that U.S. guidelines recommend. Every pick on this list is one type of equipment, costs under $300 at the maker’s own price, and was checked on October 7, 2026.

    You don’t need a garage full of machines to get stronger or to support weight loss. A few well-chosen pieces cover pushing, pulling, squatting, hinging, core work and a little cardio. If you are new to lifting, our strength training guide explains why it matters and how to begin; this page is the dated shortlist of gear that goes with it. We research; we don’t test, and we have not used these products ourselves. Specs and prices below are maker-stated.

    The picks

    This list works differently from our single-category lists: it names one specific product for each type of equipment, so you can pick the pieces you need. Safety comes first. On October 7, 2026 we searched the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalls for every brand below and found no recall that covers any listed product (details in the safety section). With safety equal, the order reflects how useful each piece is for a beginner’s home routine, then maker-stated specs against price, then warranty and returns.

    10 home gym essentials under $300, researched

    1. 1. CAP 50-lb Rubber Hex Dumbbell Set

      Best for The first weights for most beginners

      • Choose 5 + 20 lb pairs, 10 + 15 lb pairs or one 25 lb pair (50 lb total)
      • hex heads that don't roll
      • grey-iron heads on a knurled chrome steel handle

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $60 to $90 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Fixed weights: as you get stronger you will need heavier pairs, and the stated warranty is only 30 days

    2. 2. Bodylastics 5 Band Basic Series Set

      Best for Strength for every muscle group in a drawer

      • 5 tube bands rated 3-10, 5-20, 8-30, 13-50 and 19-80 lb
      • stack to 190 lb
      • door anchor, 2 handles, 2 ankle straps, bag

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $36 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The maker page doesn't state band length or material

    3. 3. Gaiam Essentials Fitness Mat & Sling (10 mm)

      Best for Comfortable floor work on hard floors

      • 72 x 23.6 in, 10 mm thick NBR foam
      • non-slip ridges
      • nylon carry strap

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $25 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback A thick, soft mat can feel less steady for standing balance moves

    4. 4. REP Fitness Kettlebells (lb)

      Best for Swings, goblet squats and carries

      • Sold singly from 5 to 50 lb in 5 lb steps
      • gravity die-cast iron with a textured coating
      • color-coded handles, 22 to 40 mm

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $25 to $115 each (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Swings take practice; learn the hip hinge before going heavy

    5. 5. TRX HOME2 System

      Best for Bodyweight strength you can scale by body angle

      • Suspension trainer with door anchor and suspension anchor
      • 1.5 lb with mesh bag
      • 2-year warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $240 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The second-highest price here, and it depends on a solid door or anchor point

    6. 6. Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball Kit

      Best for Core, balance and gentle mobility work

      • Anti-burst ball in 55, 65 or 75 cm, sized by height
      • 300 lb weight capacity
      • latex-free PVC
      • pump and digital workouts

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $25 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Needs open floor space, and an overinflated or damaged ball can burst

    7. 7. REP Fitness AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench

      Best for Presses and rows once you own weights

      • 700 lb weight capacity
      • back pad from flat to 90 degrees in 6 steps, 3 seat angles
      • 50.5 x 23 in footprint, 70 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $270 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No decline position, and the upholstery warranty is only 30 days

    8. 8. TriggerPoint GRID 1.0 Foam Roller

      Best for Easing tight legs and back after workouts

      • 13 x 5.5 in hollow-core roller
      • EVA foam with a three-zone surface
      • supports up to 300 lb
      • 1-year warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $40 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Rolling helps you feel looser; it doesn't burn meaningful calories

    9. 9. Crossrope Starter Jump Rope Set

      Best for Short, intense cardio in a small space

      • Slim handles plus a 1/4 lb weighted rope
      • 5 rope sizes by height
      • 60-day returns and a lifetime handle warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $87 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback High impact, and ropes themselves aren't covered by the warranty

    10. 10. CAP Doorway Chin Up Bar

      Best for Pull-ups, hanging knee raises and a sit-up anchor

      • Steel bar with foam grips
      • fits door frames 24.5 to 36 in
      • 220 lb maximum weight capacity

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $20 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The lowest weight limit on this list, and full pull-ups are hard for most beginners

    All 10 picks compared

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1CAP 50-lb Rubber Hex Dumbbell SetThe first weights for most beginnersChoose 5 + 20 lb pairs, 10 + 15 lb pairs or one 25 lb pair (50 lb total); hex heads that don't roll; grey-iron heads on a knurled chrome steel handle$60 to $90Oct 7, 2026
    2Bodylastics 5 Band Basic Series SetStrength for every muscle group in a drawer5 tube bands rated 3-10, 5-20, 8-30, 13-50 and 19-80 lb; stack to 190 lb; door anchor, 2 handles, 2 ankle straps, bag$36Oct 7, 2026
    3Gaiam Essentials Fitness Mat & Sling (10 mm)Comfortable floor work on hard floors72 x 23.6 in, 10 mm thick NBR foam; non-slip ridges; nylon carry strap$25Oct 7, 2026
    4REP Fitness Kettlebells (lb)Swings, goblet squats and carriesSold singly from 5 to 50 lb in 5 lb steps; gravity die-cast iron with a textured coating; color-coded handles, 22 to 40 mm$25 to $115 eachOct 7, 2026
    5TRX HOME2 SystemBodyweight strength you can scale by body angleSuspension trainer with door anchor and suspension anchor; 1.5 lb with mesh bag; 2-year warranty$240Oct 7, 2026
    6Gaiam Total Body Balance Ball KitCore, balance and gentle mobility workAnti-burst ball in 55, 65 or 75 cm, sized by height; 300 lb weight capacity; latex-free PVC; pump and digital workouts$25Oct 7, 2026
    7REP Fitness AB-3100 Adjustable Weight BenchPresses and rows once you own weights700 lb weight capacity; back pad from flat to 90 degrees in 6 steps, 3 seat angles; 50.5 x 23 in footprint, 70 lb$270Oct 7, 2026
    8TriggerPoint GRID 1.0 Foam RollerEasing tight legs and back after workouts13 x 5.5 in hollow-core roller; EVA foam with a three-zone surface; supports up to 300 lb; 1-year warranty$40Oct 7, 2026
    9Crossrope Starter Jump Rope SetShort, intense cardio in a small spaceSlim handles plus a 1/4 lb weighted rope; 5 rope sizes by height; 60-day returns and a lifetime handle warranty$87Oct 7, 2026
    10CAP Doorway Chin Up BarPull-ups, hanging knee raises and a sit-up anchorSteel bar with foam grips; fits door frames 24.5 to 36 in; 220 lb maximum weight capacity$20Oct 7, 2026

    Why these picks, and in this order

    • Dumbbells, bands and a mat (1 to 3) cover almost every beginner strength exercise for about $121. The CAP set gives you two pairs of fixed dumbbells, which are simple and quick to grab. The Bodylastics bands add a light option for shoulders and rehab-style moves and a heavy one for legs. The mat makes floor work, such as bridges and planks, comfortable.
    • A kettlebell (4) adds the hip hinge and swing, which work the back of the body and raise your heart rate. REP sells them one at a time, so you can buy the weight you need now, and lists a lifetime warranty on kettlebells.
    • The TRX HOME2 (5) turns your body weight into adjustable resistance: stand more upright to make a row easier, lean back to make it harder. It ranks below the kettlebell because of its price.
    • The balance ball (6) is cheap and useful for core and balance work, which the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends alongside strength and cardio.
    • The bench (7) is the one piece that only makes sense once you own weights. When you do, it opens up presses, step-ups and supported rows, and its 700 lb rating is the highest on the list.
    • The foam roller, jump rope and pull-up bar (8 to 10) are useful extras rather than essentials. Rolling is for comfort, jumping rope is high impact, and the doorway bar has the lowest weight limit (220 lb) and needs a suitable door frame.

    Want more choice in one category? Our list of adjustable dumbbells compares 10 dial, pin and plate models (most cost more than $300 a pair), and our resistance band sets list compares 9 band kits, including latex-free options. If you plan to add walking weight, see our weighted vests for walking.

    Budget builder: a $100, $200 and $300 home gym

    Here is one way to build up over time using only the picks above, at the maker prices we saw on October 7, 2026 (before tax and shipping). Each kit adds to the one before it.

    Three starter kits built from the picks
    Three starter kits built from the picks
    ItemMat and ballResistance bandsDumbbells and kettlebellJump rope
    $100 kit ($85.93)$49.96$35.97$0$0
    $200 kit ($194.91)$49.96$35.97$108.98$0
    $300 kit ($281.91)$49.96$35.97$108.98$87

    Mat and ball: Gaiam mat $24.98 + ball kit $24.98. Dumbbells and kettlebell: CAP 50-lb set $59.99 + REP 20 lb kettlebell $48.99. Jump rope: Crossrope Starter set $87.00. Prices exclude tax and shipping.

    Source: Maker product pages (Gaiam, Bodylastics, CAP Barbell, REP Fitness, Crossrope) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    • $100 kit ($85.93): mat, band set and balance ball. Enough for a full-body band routine, core work and stretching.
    • $200 kit ($194.91): add the CAP dumbbells (for example the 10 + 15 lb pairs) and a 20 lb REP kettlebell for goblet squats, rows, presses and swings.
    • $300 kit ($281.91): add the Crossrope set for short cardio bursts. If you prefer suspension training, a different $300 kit is the TRX HOME2, the mat and the doorway bar ($284.92).

    The bench ($269.99) doesn’t fit into these kits with weights to use on it, which is why we suggest it later, once you know you will keep lifting. Our bodyweight home workouts list shows what you can do before you buy anything at all.

    How much training does a home gym need to support?

    The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, plus muscle-strengthening activity on at least 2 days. The ACSM’s 2011 position stand adds that adults should train each major muscle group 2 to 3 days a week, include balance and coordination work on 2 to 3 days, and stretch on at least 2 days. For people new to lifting, the ACSM’s guidance on progression suggests a weight you can lift 8 to 12 times, 2 to 3 days a week, adding 2 to 10% once you can do one or two more reps than your target.

    The weekly targets your gear should cover

    Checked on October 7, 2026

    Mapped onto the picks: dumbbells, bands, kettlebell, bench, TRX and pull-up bar cover strength; the jump rope and kettlebell swings add cardio; the ball and mat cover balance and core; the mat and foam roller support stretching. Most of your aerobic minutes will still come from walking, cycling or other everyday movement. Our guide to walking for weight loss and our lists of walking pads and exercise bikes help there.

    What each piece is good for

    The 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities estimates how hard different activities are in METs (multiples of your resting energy use). Activities with this gear range widely:

    Effort of activities you can do with this gearValues in METs
    Effort of activities you can do with this gear
    ItemValue
    Rope skipping, general11 METs
    Kettlebell swings9.8 METs
    Calisthenics such as pull-ups, vigorous7.5 METs
    Resistance training circuit5.8 METs
    Calisthenics such as push-ups, moderate3.8 METs
    Resistance training, 8 to 15 reps3.5 METs
    Exercise ball workout2.8 METs
    Stretching, mild2.3 METs

    1 MET is roughly your energy use sitting still. Higher numbers burn more per minute but are harder to keep up.

    Source: 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities, conditioning exercise (codes 02068, 02058, 02020, 02055, 02022, 02054, 02112, 02101) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Notice that a standard weight session (3.5 METs) burns less per minute than skipping rope (11.0). That’s fine: strength training’s main job during weight loss is to help you keep muscle, not to burn the most calories. Our comparison of cardio vs strength training explains how they work together, and the calories burned calculator estimates a session for your weight.

    Safety: recalls, weight limits and setup

    We searched CPSC recalls for all seven brands on October 7, 2026: CAP Barbell, Bodylastics, Gaiam, REP Fitness, TRX, TriggerPoint and Crossrope. We found no recall for CAP Barbell, Bodylastics, Gaiam fitness products, TriggerPoint or Crossrope. Three recalls touch brands on the list, and none covers a listed product:

    • REP Fitness Strap Safety brackets (February 11, 2021): about 1,940 brackets for the PR-4000 and PR-5000 racks, sold in 2020, could detach when weight was dropped onto them. Three reports, no injuries. Neither the kettlebells nor the AB-3100 bench is involved.
    • TRX Professional (P1) and Tactical (T1) suspension trainers (October 2, 2012): about 40,000 early-model trainers made between January 2006 and July 2007, whose strap buckles could break. The recall covers only devices made in 2006 and 2007, not the current HOME2.
    • TRX dip and hammer bars (March 5, 2014): about 2,700 bars for commercial TRX frames, sold 2011 to 2013, with welds that could crack. Not a home product and not on this list.
    • Gaiam: the only CPSC notice we found was a 2004 mattress-pad flammability recall, unrelated to fitness gear.

    Exercise balls deserve a word of care in general. In 2009, EB Brands recalled about 3 million fitness balls sold under other brand names after 47 reports of balls bursting, because overinflation could make them burst; in 2020 Decathlon recalled Domyos Swiss balls for the same hazard. Neither recall involves Gaiam. Inflate any ball only to the size the maker states, and check it for wear.

    Maker-stated weight limitsValues in lb
    Maker-stated weight limits
    ItemValue
    REP AB-3100 bench700 lb
    Gaiam balance ball300 lb
    TriggerPoint GRID 1.0300 lb
    CAP doorway chin-up bar220 lb

    Count your body weight plus any weights you hold. Bands, mat, kettlebell, rope and TRX pages state no user weight limit.

    Source: Maker product pages (REP Fitness, Gaiam, TriggerPoint, CAP Barbell) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Five setup habits for a safe home gym

    1. Check the recallsSearch each brand and model on cpsc.gov before you buy and again every few months.
    2. Respect the limitsYour body weight plus anything you hold should stay under the stated limit, with room to spare.
    3. Test anchors firstBefore a pull-up or a TRX row, follow the maker's setup instructions and test the door anchor or bar with a gentle pull.
    4. Clear the floorLeave space around kettlebells, the ball and the jump rope, and keep children and pets out of the swing zone.
    5. Inspect bands and ballsStop using any band with nicks or cracks and any ball that looks stretched, worn or overinflated.

    How to choose your first pieces

    1. Start with what you will use twice a week. For most people that means a pair or two of dumbbells or a band set, plus a mat. Add pieces when a workout feels too easy or you want variety.
    2. Pick weights for your legs and your arms. Legs usually handle more than shoulders, which is why a 10 + 15 lb or 5 + 20 lb pair split works well at first. For strength moves such as presses and deadlifts, REP’s kettlebell guide suggests roughly 13 to 26 lb for women and 18 to 44 lb for men as a starting range.
    3. Measure your space and your doors. The bench needs about 50.5 x 23 in, the mat 72 x 23.6 in, and the doorway bar a frame 24.5 to 36 in wide. A jump rope needs ceiling height and room on all sides.
    4. Read warranties and return windows. On this list they range from 30 days (CAP) to lifetime coverage on REP kettlebells and Crossrope handles. Returns run 30 days at most makers and 60 days at Crossrope.
    5. Watch out for subscriptions. The TRX and Crossrope purchases include free trials of their apps; Crossrope lists its membership at $99 a year after 30 days. Cancel in time if you don’t want it. Our list of workout apps compares other options.

    What a home gym can’t do

    Equipment doesn’t cause weight loss on its own; what you do with it, and how you eat, matters more. Strength training’s biggest payoff during weight loss is protecting muscle. The ACSM’s 2009 position stand on weight loss notes that resistance training does not add much weight loss by itself but may increase lean mass and fat loss. So pair your sessions with a moderate calorie deficit and enough protein (the protein calculator estimates a range). If you want to lose fat while keeping or building muscle, our guide to body recomposition shows how the pieces fit, and people taking GLP-1 medicines can read about protecting muscle on GLP-1s.

    A foam roller won’t “break up fat,” a balance ball won’t flatten your belly, and no single piece spot-reduces any area. What the gear does well is make regular training easy to start at home. For workout ideas, see the best exercises for weight loss and our low-impact workouts if your joints need a gentler start. Staying active is also one of the habits in our guide to maintaining weight loss.

    Sources and last checked

    Specs, prices, warranties and return terms were read on each maker’s own website on October 7, 2026: capbarbell.com, bodylastics.com, gaiam.com, repfitness.com, trxtraining.com, tptherapy.com (TriggerPoint) and crossrope.com. Recall checks were run on cpsc.gov the same day. Our gear hub has more equipment guides, and how we choose our picks explains the method. The full reference list is below. Updated: first published October 2026.

  • 10 Best Walking Shoes for Fitness Walking (2026)

    10 Best Walking Shoes for Fitness Walking (2026)

    In short: For the widest fit range, our top researched pick is the Propet Stability Walker ($125 to $145): five widths for men and women, and men’s sizes up to 17. If you want a walking-specific support shoe with a long trial, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 ($140) comes in four widths and Brooks offers 90-day returns. For a lighter, mesh support shoe at a lower price, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 ($125) has the same four widths and 90-day returns. All sizes, specs and prices are maker-stated and were checked on October 7, 2026.

    Woman walking along the waterfront promenade in Baku, Azerbaijan on a sunny day.
    Photo: Zulfugar Karimov / Pexels

    Walking is one of the easiest ways to add activity to your day, and a shoe that fits well makes it more likely you’ll keep going. If you are just starting, our guide to walking for weight loss covers pace, distance and a beginner plan; this page is the dated shortlist of shoes to go with it. We research; we don’t test, and we have not worn these shoes ourselves. No shoe burns fat or makes you walk faster on its own; the right one simply makes walking more comfortable.

    The picks

    Our apparel lists put size range and fit options first, because a shoe that doesn’t come in your width can’t be comfortable. Then we look at the upper and comfort features, the maker’s stated support or stability features, the return policy and finally price. Where we write “has the APMA Seal” or “listed by APMA”, we found that exact model in the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance database on October 7, 2026.

    10 walking shoes, researched

    1. 1. Propet Stability Walker

      Best for The widest choice of widths and large sizes

      • Men's 7 to 17 in 5 widths (B to 5E), women's 5 to 13 in 5 widths (AA to 4E)
      • full-grain leather upper, removable footbed for orthotics
      • 11 mm heel drop

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $125 to $145 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Returns only within 30 days and only unworn; not in APMA's Seal database

    2. 2. Brooks Addiction Walker 2

      Best for Walking-specific support with a long trial

      • Men's 7 to 15 and women's 5 to 12, each in 4 widths
      • leather upper, "max support" with an extended diagonal rollbar
      • has the APMA Seal
      • 90-day returns

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $140 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The heaviest stated weight here (14.5 oz men's, 12.9 oz women's) and a 12 mm drop

    3. 3. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

      Best for A lighter mesh support shoe for brisk walks

      • Men's 7 to 15 and women's 5 to 13, each in 4 widths
      • GuideRails support system
      • 10 mm drop, 10.6 oz men's
      • has the APMA Seal
      • 90-day returns

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $125 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Built as a running shoe first, and some size and color combinations were sold out

    4. 4. Brooks Ghost Max 4

      Best for Extra cushioning and a rocker for long walks

      • Men's 7 to 15 (D, 2E, 4E), women's 5 to 13 (B, D, 2E)
      • rocker shape, extra room for orthotics
      • 6 mm drop, 10.3 oz men's
      • listed by APMA
      • 90-day returns

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $165 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The highest price on the list, and wide widths come in fewer colors

    5. 5. Orthofeet Kita (women's) and Tilos (men's) Hands-Free

      Best for Slip-on convenience with wide options

      • Women's 5 to 12 (B, D, 2E), men's 7 to 14 (D, 2E, 4E)
      • hands-free heel, water-repellent stretch upper
      • listed by APMA
      • 60-day wear test

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $120 to $129 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback The maker pages don't state drop or weight

    6. 6. Saucony Guide 19

      Best for A guided, cushioned ride in big men's sizes

      • Men's 7 to 16, women's 5 to 12, each in regular, wide and extra wide
      • CenterPath sidewall guidance
      • listed by APMA

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $150 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No drop or weight on the maker page, and returns must be unworn

    7. 7. Saucony Echelon 11

      Best for A roomy fit for orthotics or wide forefeet

      • Men's 7 to 15, women's 5 to 12, each in regular, wide and extra wide
      • straight-lasted platform and no-gusset tongue for a roomier fit
      • listed by APMA

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $155 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback No drop or weight on the maker page, and returns must be unworn

    8. 8. Altra Paradigm 8

      Best for Zero-drop support with a roomy toe box

      • Men's 7 to 15, women's 5.5 to 12, regular or wide
      • 0 mm drop, 30 mm stack, GuideRail support
      • 10.9 oz men's, 8.6 oz women's
      • 30-day trial

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $136 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Zero drop feels different if you are used to raised heels; APMA lists the earlier Paradigm 7, not the 8

    9. 9. Altra Torin 8

      Best for Zero-drop cushioning without stability features

      • Men's 7 to 15, women's 5.5 to 12, regular or wide
      • 0 mm drop, 30 mm stack, neutral
      • 10.15 oz men's, 8.4 oz women's
      • listed by APMA

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $128 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Only two widths and no added support

    10. 10. Skechers Slip-ins GO WALK Workout Walker

      Best for Hands-free slip-on for daily fitness walks

      • Women's 5 to 13, men's 7 to 16
      • Max Cushioning, rocker sole, Goodyear rubber outsole
      • 8 mm offset, 9.75 oz in women's size 6
      • has the APMA Seal

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $135 (checked Oct 7, 2026)

      Drawback Medium width only, so it won't suit wide feet

    All 10 shoes side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Propet Stability WalkerThe widest choice of widths and large sizesMen's 7 to 17 in 5 widths (B to 5E), women's 5 to 13 in 5 widths (AA to 4E); full-grain leather upper, removable footbed for orthotics; 11 mm heel drop$125 to $145Oct 7, 2026
    2Brooks Addiction Walker 2Walking-specific support with a long trialMen's 7 to 15 and women's 5 to 12, each in 4 widths; leather upper, "max support" with an extended diagonal rollbar; has the APMA Seal; 90-day returns$140Oct 7, 2026
    3Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25A lighter mesh support shoe for brisk walksMen's 7 to 15 and women's 5 to 13, each in 4 widths; GuideRails support system; 10 mm drop, 10.6 oz men's; has the APMA Seal; 90-day returns$125Oct 7, 2026
    4Brooks Ghost Max 4Extra cushioning and a rocker for long walksMen's 7 to 15 (D, 2E, 4E), women's 5 to 13 (B, D, 2E); rocker shape, extra room for orthotics; 6 mm drop, 10.3 oz men's; listed by APMA; 90-day returns$165Oct 7, 2026
    5Orthofeet Kita (women's) and Tilos (men's) Hands-FreeSlip-on convenience with wide optionsWomen's 5 to 12 (B, D, 2E), men's 7 to 14 (D, 2E, 4E); hands-free heel, water-repellent stretch upper; listed by APMA; 60-day wear test$120 to $129Oct 7, 2026
    6Saucony Guide 19A guided, cushioned ride in big men's sizesMen's 7 to 16, women's 5 to 12, each in regular, wide and extra wide; CenterPath sidewall guidance; listed by APMA$150Oct 7, 2026
    7Saucony Echelon 11A roomy fit for orthotics or wide forefeetMen's 7 to 15, women's 5 to 12, each in regular, wide and extra wide; straight-lasted platform and no-gusset tongue for a roomier fit; listed by APMA$155Oct 7, 2026
    8Altra Paradigm 8Zero-drop support with a roomy toe boxMen's 7 to 15, women's 5.5 to 12, regular or wide; 0 mm drop, 30 mm stack, GuideRail support; 10.9 oz men's, 8.6 oz women's; 30-day trial$136Oct 7, 2026
    9Altra Torin 8Zero-drop cushioning without stability featuresMen's 7 to 15, women's 5.5 to 12, regular or wide; 0 mm drop, 30 mm stack, neutral; 10.15 oz men's, 8.4 oz women's; listed by APMA$128Oct 7, 2026
    10Skechers Slip-ins GO WALK Workout WalkerHands-free slip-on for daily fitness walksWomen's 5 to 13, men's 7 to 16; Max Cushioning, rocker sole, Goodyear rubber outsole; 8 mm offset, 9.75 oz in women's size 6; has the APMA Seal$135Oct 7, 2026

    Why these picks, and in this order

    • Propet Stability Walker (1) has the most fit options we found: five widths in both men’s and women’s versions, plus men’s sizes to 17. It is a leather walking shoe with a removable footbed. Propet also states it is approved for Medicare’s therapeutic shoe benefit for people with diabetes. It isn’t higher on returns: Propet takes back only unworn shoes within 30 days.
    • Brooks Addiction Walker 2 (2) and Adrenaline GTS 25 (3) each come in four widths for men and women, carry the APMA Seal on both the Brooks and APMA sites, and have Brooks’s 90-day return window. The Addiction Walker is the walking-specific, leather, maximum-support choice. The Adrenaline is lighter and uses mesh, and it costs less when checked.
    • Ghost Max 4 (4), Orthofeet (5), Guide 19 (6) and Echelon 11 (7) each offer three widths. We ordered them by return terms (Brooks 90 days, Orthofeet’s 60-day wear test, Saucony 30 days unworn) and then price.
    • Altra Paradigm 8 (8) and Torin 8 (9) come in two widths with Altra’s wide, foot-shaped toe box and zero drop. The Paradigm adds GuideRail support, so it ranks first of the two.
    • Skechers GO WALK Workout Walker (10) is designed for fitness walking and has the APMA Seal, but Skechers offers it in medium width only, which puts it last on our fit-first ranking.

    Widths at a glance

    Width matters as much as length. A shoe that pinches at the ball of the foot or lets your heel slide can rub and blister on a long walk. Here is how many widths each maker offers for men:

    Number of men's widths offeredValues in widths
    Number of men's widths offered
    ItemValue
    Propet Stability Walker5 widths
    Brooks Addiction Walker 24 widths
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 254 widths
    Brooks Ghost Max 43 widths
    Orthofeet Tilos3 widths
    Saucony Guide 193 widths
    Saucony Echelon 113 widths
    Altra Paradigm 82 widths
    Altra Torin 82 widths
    Skechers Workout Walker1 widths

    Women's versions offer the same number of widths (for Orthofeet, the women's model is the Kita). Not every width comes in every color.

    Source: Maker product pages (Propet, Brooks, Orthofeet, Saucony, Altra, Skechers) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Heel-to-toe drop: what it is and what the research says

    Drop (or offset) is how much higher the heel sits than the forefoot inside the shoe. A higher drop puts a little more cushioning under the heel; a zero-drop shoe keeps your foot level. Seven of our picks state a drop:

    Maker-stated heel-to-toe dropValues in mm
    Maker-stated heel-to-toe drop
    ItemValue
    Brooks Addiction Walker 212 mm
    Propet Stability Walker11 mm
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 2510 mm
    Skechers Workout Walker (women's)8 mm
    Brooks Ghost Max 46 mm
    Altra Paradigm 80 mm
    Altra Torin 80 mm

    Skechers states 8 mm for the women's and 7.8 mm for the men's version. Orthofeet and Saucony do not state a drop on their pages.

    Source: Maker product pages (Brooks, Propet, Skechers, Altra) (checked on October 7, 2026)

    Is one drop better? The research doesn’t give walkers a clear answer. In a 2016 randomized trial of 553 leisure-time runners given shoes with a 10, 6 or 0 mm drop, overall injury risk over six months did not differ between the groups. Low-drop shoes were linked to fewer injuries in occasional runners but more in regular runners. That was a running study, not a walking one, so the safest reading for walkers is this: if you switch to a much lower drop than you are used to, build up your walking time gradually.

    A 2015 review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that the old ideas about cushioning impact and controlling pronation had little conclusive evidence behind them. The authors proposed a “comfort filter” instead: people tend to choose a comfortable shoe that lets them move in their own natural way. In plain terms, comfort when you walk in the shoe is a sensible way to choose, and it is one reason long return windows matter.

    Walking shoes by the numbers

    Checked on October 7, 2026

    What the APMA Seal does and doesn’t mean

    The APMA says products earn its Seal of Acceptance after a group of APMA podiatrists reviews them to make sure they promote foot health, along with information on safety and quality control. The APMA also says it is not a testing laboratory, reviews only products that companies submit, and does not compare competing products. So the Seal is a useful sign, but a shoe without it (like the Propet on this list) is not a worse shoe, and a shoe with it still has to fit your foot.

    Man walking confidently across a city crosswalk with headphones and casual attire.
    Photo: Tnarg / Pexels

    Fit checklist: how to choose and try on walking shoes

    A fit checklist for walking shoes

    1. Measure both feetMeasure length and width, standing up, and use the bigger foot with the maker's size chart.
    2. Pick your widthIf shoes often pinch, look for a wide or extra-wide option instead of going up a size.
    3. Bring your socks and insertsTry shoes on with the socks you walk in and any orthotics; removable footbeds make room for them.
    4. Check toe room and heel holdYou should be able to wiggle your toes, and your heel should not slide up as you walk.
    5. Walk indoors firstSeveral makers accept returns only for unworn shoes, so test them on clean floors before going outside.
    6. Mind the return windowBrooks allows 90 days, Orthofeet 60, Altra, Saucony and Propet 30 (Saucony and Propet: unworn).
    1. Match the support to how your feet feel. “Stability” or “support” shoes (Propet, Addiction Walker, Adrenaline, Guide, Paradigm) add structure that makers say guides your stride. Neutral shoes (Torin) don’t. If you don’t know which you need, comfort on a test walk is a good guide, and a podiatrist can help if you have pain.
    2. Think about cushioning and weight. More cushioning (Ghost Max, Torin, Paradigm at 30 mm stack) can feel softer on long walks; lighter shoes can feel quicker. Stated weights on this list run from 8.4 oz (Torin 8 women’s) to 14.5 oz (Addiction Walker 2 men’s).
    3. Consider easy-on features. Hands-free designs (Orthofeet and Skechers) help if bending to tie laces is hard.
    4. Look for grip. A 2008 review on footwear for older people recommended low heels and firm, slip-resistant soles indoors and out, and noted that walking indoors barefoot or in socks has been linked to more falls in older people.

    Safety, recalls and foot health

    Footwear recalls are rare. On October 7, 2026 we searched the CPSC recall database for Propet, Brooks, Orthofeet, Saucony, Altra and Skechers. We found no footwear recall for any of them. The only hits were unrelated: a 2024 recall of a bracelet sold in Skechers-branded jewelry gift sets (for lead and cadmium) and recalls for other companies with “Brooks” in their name.

    A 2019 review of falls in older adults named ill-fitting footwear, raised heels and backless styles among the features that can impair balance, which is one more reason to choose a snug, well-fitting shoe for your walks. When you break in new shoes, check your feet after the first few walks for rubbing or blisters.

    What walking shoes can’t do

    Shoes don’t cause weight loss, tone your legs or fix posture by themselves. Their job is to make walking comfortable enough that you do more of it. Walking briskly (3.5 to 3.9 mph) is rated at 4.8 METs in the 2024 Adult Compendium, compared with 3.8 at a moderate 2.8 to 3.4 mph pace. Our calories burned calculator turns that into calories for your weight. Weight loss still comes mostly from a modest calorie deficit, with walking and strength training helping you keep it off.

    Related gear and guides

    If weather or work keeps you indoors, our list of walking pads and the walking pad buying guide cover walking at home, and walking pad vs treadmill helps you pick between them. Wondering whether to pick up the pace? See walking vs running for weight loss. A fitness tracker shows your steps adding up, a weighted vest can make walks harder once they feel easy, and compression leggings may help your legs feel better after long walks. For more ways to move, visit our exercise hub and the low-impact workouts list, or build a corner for strength work with our home gym essentials.

    Sources and last checked

    Sizes, widths, specs, prices and return terms were read on October 7, 2026 on propetfootwear.com, brooksrunning.com, orthofeet.com, saucony.com, altrarunning.com and skechers.com. APMA Seal status was checked in the APMA Seal Program database and CPSC recalls on cpsc.gov the same day. Our method page explains how we choose, and the full reference list is below. Updated: first published October 2026.

  • 10 Best Bodyweight Exercises You Can Do at Home

    10 Best Bodyweight Exercises You Can Do at Home

    In short: The bodyweight exercises that burn the most are fast, whole-body moves such as burpees, squat jumps and mountain climbers, rated 11 METs in vigorous intervals. For building muscle with no equipment, push-ups, lunges and squats do the heavy lifting, and a push-up can build chest strength about as well as a light bench press. A 20-minute circuit of these moves, done 2 to 3 times a week, covers the guidelines’ muscle-strengthening advice and adds roughly 135 to 180 calories per session for people weighing 150 to 200 pounds.

    No gym, no gear and no commute: that is the appeal of a home workout. Below are the ten moves we would build a home routine around, ranked with published energy costs, followed by how to do the main moves and a sample 20-minute plan. For the wider picture of exercise and weight loss, see our exercise hub and our strength training guide. If you have heart, lung, joint or back problems, or have been inactive for a long time, ask your clinician which moves and intensities suit you.

    How we ranked them

    Our exercise lists rank by energy cost first, then muscle benefit, then joint load and accessibility, then equipment. Energy costs come from the 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities, which rates bodyweight exercise in groups rather than move by move: vigorous intervals with burpees, mountain climbers and squat jumps (11.0 METs), vigorous calisthenics such as jumping jacks (7.5), moderate calisthenics such as push-ups and lunges (3.8), general bodyweight resistance such as squats (3.0) and light core work such as planks (2.8). One MET is the energy you use sitting quietly. Moves in the same group were ordered by how much muscle they work, then by how kind they are to your joints.

    Calories below are MET x body weight in kg x 0.5 hour, for 150 lb (68 kg) and 200 lb (91 kg). Nobody does 30 minutes of nonstop burpees, so read the high numbers as the rate during the work intervals, not a session total.

    The 10 best bodyweight exercises for home

    10 bodyweight exercises for home, ranked

    1. 1. Burpees

      Best for Short, hard intervals that work the whole body

      • 11.0 METs in vigorous intervals
      • about 374 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 499 at 200 lb (work-interval rate)
      • legs, chest, shoulders and core

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback High impact and very hard for beginners; step back instead of jumping to start

    2. 2. Squat jumps

      Best for Leg power and a fast heart rate

      • 11.0 METs in vigorous intervals
      • about 374 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb (work-interval rate)
      • thighs and glutes

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Landing loads the knees; swap for fast bodyweight squats if they ache

    3. 3. Mountain climbers

      Best for Cardio and core with no jumping

      • 11.0 METs in vigorous intervals
      • about 374 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb (work-interval rate)
      • core, shoulders and hip flexors

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Wrists carry weight; do them with hands on a bench or counter to ease the load

    4. 4. Jumping jacks

      Best for A simple warm-up or cardio burst

      • 7.5 METs as vigorous calisthenics
      • about 255 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 340 at 200 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Repeated landings; step-jacks (one foot at a time) are the low-impact version

    5. 5. Stair climbing or step-ups

      Best for Leg strength and cardio using stairs you have

      • 6.8 METs for general stair climbing (9.3 fast)
      • about 231 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 308 at 200 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (stairs or a sturdy step) (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Needs stairs; hold the rail and watch your footing

    6. 6. Push-ups (wall, counter, knee or floor)

      Best for Chest, shoulder and arm strength

      • 3.8 METs as moderate calisthenics (6.5 at high intensity)
      • about 129 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb
      • in trials, push-ups built strength like a light bench press

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Full floor push-ups are hard at first; start against a wall or counter

    7. 7. Lunges (reverse or split)

      Best for Legs and balance, one side at a time

      • 3.8 METs as moderate calisthenics
      • about 129 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 172 at 200 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Can strain knees if the front knee caves in; reverse lunges are usually easier

    8. 8. Bodyweight squats

      Best for The foundation move for legs and glutes

      • 3.0 METs general, 6.5 at high intensity
      • about 102 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb at a general pace

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Feels easy once you are strong; slow the lowering or add a pause to progress

    9. 9. Chair sit-to-stands

      Best for Beginners, older adults and anyone with sore knees

      • 2.8 METs at 6 to 12 a minute, 4.0 at 18 to 24 a minute
      • about 95 to 136 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (a sturdy chair) (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Limited challenge for fit people; it is a starting point

    10. 10. Plank and other core holds

      Best for Core strength that supports every other move

      • 2.8 METs as light calisthenics (planks, curl-ups, crunches)
      • about 95 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (a mat helps) (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Burns little and won't flatten your belly on its own

    All 10 exercises side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1BurpeesShort, hard intervals that work the whole body11.0 METs in vigorous intervals; about 374 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 499 at 200 lb (work-interval rate); legs, chest, shoulders and coreFreeOct 6, 2026
    2Squat jumpsLeg power and a fast heart rate11.0 METs in vigorous intervals; about 374 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb (work-interval rate); thighs and glutesFreeOct 6, 2026
    3Mountain climbersCardio and core with no jumping11.0 METs in vigorous intervals; about 374 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb (work-interval rate); core, shoulders and hip flexorsFreeOct 6, 2026
    4Jumping jacksA simple warm-up or cardio burst7.5 METs as vigorous calisthenics; about 255 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 340 at 200 lbFreeOct 6, 2026
    5Stair climbing or step-upsLeg strength and cardio using stairs you have6.8 METs for general stair climbing (9.3 fast); about 231 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 308 at 200 lbFree (stairs or a sturdy step)Oct 6, 2026
    6Push-ups (wall, counter, knee or floor)Chest, shoulder and arm strength3.8 METs as moderate calisthenics (6.5 at high intensity); about 129 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb; in trials, push-ups built strength like a light bench pressFreeOct 6, 2026
    7Lunges (reverse or split)Legs and balance, one side at a time3.8 METs as moderate calisthenics; about 129 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 172 at 200 lbFreeOct 6, 2026
    8Bodyweight squatsThe foundation move for legs and glutes3.0 METs general, 6.5 at high intensity; about 102 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb at a general paceFreeOct 6, 2026
    9Chair sit-to-standsBeginners, older adults and anyone with sore knees2.8 METs at 6 to 12 a minute, 4.0 at 18 to 24 a minute; about 95 to 136 kcal per 30 min at 150 lbFree (a sturdy chair)Oct 6, 2026
    10Plank and other core holdsCore strength that supports every other move2.8 METs as light calisthenics (planks, curl-ups, crunches); about 95 kcal per 30 min at 150 lbFree (a mat helps)Oct 6, 2026
    Energy cost of bodyweight exercise types, in METsValues in METs
    Energy cost of bodyweight exercise types, in METs
    ItemValue
    Vigorous intervals (burpees, mountain climbers, squat jumps)11 METs
    Vigorous calisthenics (jumping jacks)7.5 METs
    Stair climbing, general6.8 METs
    Bodyweight exercises, high intensity6.5 METs
    Bodyweight circuit training6 METs
    Moderate calisthenics (push-ups, lunges)3.8 METs
    Bodyweight exercises, general (squats)3 METs
    Light calisthenics (planks, crunches)2.8 METs

    The Compendium rates bodyweight exercise in groups. 1 MET is the energy used sitting quietly.

    Source: 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities (checked on October 6, 2026)

    Why muscle moves sit lower but still matter

    Push-ups, lunges and squats rank lower because they burn fewer calories per minute, not because they matter less. Their job is to keep and build muscle, which is especially important while you are losing weight. A 2021 overview of 12 systematic reviews found that resistance training reduced lean-mass loss during weight loss by about 0.8 kg (1.8 lb) on average.

    Bodyweight moves can build real strength. In an 8-week trial, young men who did push-ups adjusted to a load similar to 40% of their maximum bench press gained strength and chest muscle thickness comparable to a group doing light bench presses. In a 4-week trial, a progressive push-up program raised bench-press strength in moderately trained men, as bench training did. Both studies were small and in young men, so the results are a guide rather than a guarantee.

    What the push-up trials found

    Checked on October 6, 2026

    How to do the main moves

    Good form matters more than speed. Move slowly at first, breathe out on the effort, and stop a rep or two before your form breaks down. These cues are general guidance; a physical therapist or certified trainer can check your form in person.

    Form cues for six key moves

    1. SquatFeet shoulder-width apart, sit your hips back and down as if onto a chair, chest up, knees tracking over your toes; stand tall.
    2. Push-upHands under your shoulders on a wall, counter or the floor; body in one straight line; lower your chest, then press away.
    3. Reverse lungeStep one foot back and lower until both knees bend, front knee over the ankle; push through the front heel to stand.
    4. PlankForearms under shoulders, body straight from head to heels (or knees); squeeze your glutes and breathe for 15 to 30 seconds.
    5. Mountain climberFrom a high plank (hands on a bench to start), drive one knee toward your chest, then switch at a steady pace.
    6. Burpee, beginner versionSquat, place hands down, step back to a plank, step forward and stand; add the jump only when this feels easy.

    A sample 20-minute home workout

    This plan mixes strength and cardio moves in a simple circuit. The Compendium rates bodyweight circuit training at 6.0 METs, which works out to roughly 136 calories in 20 minutes at 150 lb and 181 at 200 lb. Do it 2 to 3 days a week on non-consecutive days; the American College of Sports Medicine suggests 2 to 3 strength days a week for beginners.

    Sample 20-minute bodyweight plan

    1. Warm up, 3 minMarch in place, arm circles and 20 step-jacks.
    2. Strength circuit, 12 min3 rounds of 40 seconds on and 20 seconds rest: squats, push-ups (wall or counter to start), reverse lunges, plank.
    3. Cardio finisher, 3 min3 rounds of 30 seconds of mountain climbers or step-ups and 30 seconds of easy marching.
    4. Cool down, 2 minWalk slowly around the room and stretch your thighs, hips and chest.
    5. Progress weeklyAdd a round, slow the lowering, or move to the next push-up level when the last round feels easy.

    Too hard? Use chair sit-to-stands instead of squats and wall push-ups, and march instead of the finisher. Too easy? Add squat jumps or burpees to the finisher, or hold a backpack with books for squats and lunges. To add load without weights, a set of resistance bands is the cheapest step up; for heavier progress, see our list of adjustable dumbbells.

    Fitting it into your week

    The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week plus muscle-strengthening activity at least 2 days a week, and say any amount of activity counts. A home circuit covers the strength part; for the aerobic part, many people add daily walks for weight loss or a walking pad on workdays. If your knees or hips complain about jumping, our list of low-impact workouts has joint-friendly cardio, and the best exercises for weight loss list compares every type of exercise by calories.

    • Make space: a clear area about the size of a yoga mat is enough for every move here.
    • Use a non-slip surface: a mat or rug that stays put protects your hands and knees.
    • Pick a time and keep it: the same slot each day (before breakfast, at lunch) makes it a habit.
    • Track it simply: write down rounds and reps, or use a tracker; see our fitness trackers list for what they measure well.

    What home workouts can’t do

    Planks and crunches strengthen your core, but they don’t burn belly fat from that spot (see weight-loss myths science has busted and our belly fat guide). Most weight loss comes from a steady calorie deficit; exercise helps you keep muscle, improves fitness and makes it easier to keep weight off. If you want to lose fat while building muscle, our page on body recomposition shows how strength work and protein fit together, and the calories burned calculator estimates a session for your weight.

  • 9 Best Kitchen Scales for Portion Control (2026)

    9 Best Kitchen Scales for Portion Control (2026)

    In short: For portion control, a basic digital scale that reads in 1-gram steps with a tare button is all most people need. Our top three are the Etekcity EK6015 (the best value at $13.99, with 1 g and 0.05 oz steps), the Escali Primo P115 (a sealed, spill-resistant panel and a lifetime limited warranty) and the Etekcity Luminary Smart Nutrition Scale (a rechargeable app scale that weighs up to 22 lb). If you want an app that logs nutrition for you, the Etekcity ESN00, Renpho Calibra 1 and Taylor Smart Food Scale are on the list too.

    We research; we don’t test. Every spec below is maker-stated, copied from the maker’s own product page or user manual on October 6, 2026, along with the maker’s list price that day. We also searched the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall database for every brand. Nine scales passed every check, so this is an honest list of nine. Nothing here is sold by InstaTuck, and the order never depends on commissions. A kitchen scale doesn’t cause weight loss; it helps you see what a portion really is, which makes a calorie deficit easier to plan and keep.

    Why weighing beats eyeballing

    Most of us are poor judges of how much food is on the plate, and measuring cups don’t help as much as you’d think. In a 2017 study, 128 adults estimated the amounts of 17 foods. People using a household measuring cup were off by a median of 87.7%; people simply estimating the weight were off by 23.5%. Even trained nutrition students got only 18.5% of their estimates within 10% of the true weight, and they tended to overestimate energy-dense foods such as margarine and sugar and underestimate light foods such as lettuce and apple.

    How far off portion estimates were (median error)Values in %
    How far off portion estimates were (median error)
    ItemValue
    Household measuring cup87.7%
    Modelling-clay reference cube44.8%
    Estimating weight with no aid23.5%
    4 cm reference cube18.9%

    128 adults estimated volumes of 17 foods. A scale reads the weight directly, so the estimate step disappears.

    Source: Bucher T et al., International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity 2017 (checked on October 6, 2026)

    Small errors add up. In a classic 1992 study in the New England Journal of Medicine, people who said they could not lose weight despite eating little underreported what they actually ate by 47% on average. That isn’t a character flaw; it’s how memory and estimation work. Weighing a few staple foods for a couple of weeks (your cereal, pasta, rice, nut butter and cooking oil) recalibrates your eye, and research on food logging links more consistent tracking with more weight lost. A scale makes that tracking accurate, and our best weight-loss apps can do the math.

    Portions by the numbers

    Checked on October 6, 2026

    The 9 best kitchen scales for portion control

    9 kitchen scales, ranked

    1. 1. Etekcity EK6015 Digital Kitchen Scale

      Best for The best value for everyday portioning

      • 11 lb (5,000 g) capacity
      • 1 g / 0.05 oz steps
      • tare
      • oz, lb:oz, fl oz, g, mL
      • 2 AAA batteries

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $13.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Smallest platform on the list; turns off after 120 seconds

    2. 2. Escali Primo P115 Digital Scale

      Best for Messy cooks who want a long warranty

      • 11 lb (5,000 g)
      • 1 g / 0.1 oz steps
      • tare
      • sealed control panel
      • lifetime limited warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $49.95 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Only 0.1 oz steps; turns off after 4 minutes; some colors sold out

    3. 3. Etekcity Luminary Smart Nutrition Scale (ENS-L221S-SUS)

      Best for Big batches and app tracking without batteries

      • 22 lb (10 kg)
      • 1 g / 0.05 oz steps
      • rechargeable via USB-C
      • IPX6 water resistance
      • VeSync app with 19 nutrition facts

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $33.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Largest footprint here; auto-off time can only be changed in the app

    4. 4. Taylor 11 lb Waterproof Kitchen Scale (5322735)

      Best for Rinsing under the tap after raw meat or dough

      • 11 lb (5 kg)
      • 1 g / 0.1 oz steps
      • IPX7 (submersible to 1 m for 30 minutes)
      • tare
      • 1-year warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $29.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Not dishwasher safe; one color sold out; 1-year warranty

    5. 5. Etekcity ESN00 Smart Nutrition Scale

      Best for Logging nutrition with a stainless platform

      • 11 lb (5,000 g)
      • 1 g / 0.1 oz steps
      • 304 stainless steel
      • VeSync app (up to 19 nutrients, Nutritionix database, Apple Health and Fitbit)
      • 2-year warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $39.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Won't register under 3 g; nutrition features need the phone app

    6. 6. Renpho Calibra 1 Smart Nutrition Scale

      Best for The lowest-priced app scale

      • 5 kg (11 lb)
      • 1 g / 0.05 oz steps
      • Renpho app nutrition diary
      • fingerprint-resistant stainless
      • 18-month warranty (bought from Renpho)

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $23.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The product page has copy errors and doesn't state the auto-off time

    7. 7. Taylor Smart Food Scale with Precision Hub App (5340117)

      Best for Households sharing one app scale

      • 11 lb (5,000 g)
      • 1 g / 0.1 oz steps
      • app with barcode scanner and 8 user profiles
      • Apple Health and Fitbit
      • 3 AAA

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $39.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback 1-year warranty, the shortest here; 0.1 oz steps

    8. 8. Escali Arti Glass Kitchen Scale

      Best for Heavier loads and a sleek glass top

      • 15 lb (7,000 g)
      • 1 g / 0.1 oz steps
      • touch controls
      • display hold for big bowls
      • lifetime limited warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $54.95 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Glass shows smudges; turns off after 5 minutes

    9. 9. Greater Goods Nutrition Food Scale (Backlit)

      Best for Built-in nutrition facts without a phone

      • 11 lb
      • readings to the gram
      • built-in nutrition codes for 2,000+ foods with meal totals
      • backlit display
      • 3 AAA

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $69.99 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The most expensive; entering food codes is slower than an app; a different line of this brand's scales was recalled in 2025

    All 9 scales side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Etekcity EK6015 Digital Kitchen ScaleThe best value for everyday portioning11 lb (5,000 g) capacity; 1 g / 0.05 oz steps; tare; oz, lb:oz, fl oz, g, mL; 2 AAA batteries$13.99Oct 6, 2026
    2Escali Primo P115 Digital ScaleMessy cooks who want a long warranty11 lb (5,000 g); 1 g / 0.1 oz steps; tare; sealed control panel; lifetime limited warranty$49.95Oct 6, 2026
    3Etekcity Luminary Smart Nutrition Scale (ENS-L221S-SUS)Big batches and app tracking without batteries22 lb (10 kg); 1 g / 0.05 oz steps; rechargeable via USB-C; IPX6 water resistance; VeSync app with 19 nutrition facts$33.99Oct 6, 2026
    4Taylor 11 lb Waterproof Kitchen Scale (5322735)Rinsing under the tap after raw meat or dough11 lb (5 kg); 1 g / 0.1 oz steps; IPX7 (submersible to 1 m for 30 minutes); tare; 1-year warranty$29.99Oct 6, 2026
    5Etekcity ESN00 Smart Nutrition ScaleLogging nutrition with a stainless platform11 lb (5,000 g); 1 g / 0.1 oz steps; 304 stainless steel; VeSync app (up to 19 nutrients, Nutritionix database, Apple Health and Fitbit); 2-year warranty$39.99Oct 6, 2026
    6Renpho Calibra 1 Smart Nutrition ScaleThe lowest-priced app scale5 kg (11 lb); 1 g / 0.05 oz steps; Renpho app nutrition diary; fingerprint-resistant stainless; 18-month warranty (bought from Renpho)$23.99Oct 6, 2026
    7Taylor Smart Food Scale with Precision Hub App (5340117)Households sharing one app scale11 lb (5,000 g); 1 g / 0.1 oz steps; app with barcode scanner and 8 user profiles; Apple Health and Fitbit; 3 AAA$39.99Oct 6, 2026
    8Escali Arti Glass Kitchen ScaleHeavier loads and a sleek glass top15 lb (7,000 g); 1 g / 0.1 oz steps; touch controls; display hold for big bowls; lifetime limited warranty$54.95Oct 6, 2026
    9Greater Goods Nutrition Food Scale (Backlit)Built-in nutrition facts without a phone11 lb; readings to the gram; built-in nutrition codes for 2,000+ foods with meal totals; backlit display; 3 AAA$69.99Oct 6, 2026
    Maker list price on October 6, 2026Values in USD
    Maker list price on October 6, 2026
    ItemValue
    Etekcity EK6015$13.99 USD
    Renpho Calibra 1$23.99 USD
    Taylor Waterproof$29.99 USD
    Etekcity Luminary$33.99 USD
    Etekcity ESN00$39.99 USD
    Taylor Smart$39.99 USD
    Escali Primo$49.95 USD
    Escali Arti$54.95 USD
    Greater Goods Nutrition$69.99 USD

    List prices on the makers' own stores; other stores may charge more or less, and prices change often.

    Source: Each maker's own product page (Etekcity, Renpho, Taylor, KitchenSupply/Escali, Greater Goods) (checked on October 6, 2026)

    How we ranked them

    We followed our gear order. Safety came first: we searched CPSC recalls for every brand. The only kitchen-scale recall we found was Greater Goods’ January 2025 recall of about 349,500 digital kitchen scales (models 0480, 0455, 0456, 0458, 0473, 0479, 0481, 0747, 0748, 0749, 0751, 0752 and 0754) because their coin batteries were too easy for children to reach. The Greater Goods Nutrition Food Scale on our list uses AAA batteries and is not one of the recalled models, but we placed it last while that brand’s remedy program is recent. Fit for portion control came next: every pick reads in 1-gram steps, has a tare button and weighs at least 5 kg. Then we compared specs against price, then warranty, and for app scales, how much depends on a phone.

    That is why a $14 scale is first: for weighing oatmeal, chicken or pasta, it does the job as well as scales that cost three to five times as much. The app scales rank in the middle because they add convenience, not accuracy. Prices are each maker’s list price on its own store on October 6, 2026.

    How to choose a kitchen scale

    • 1-gram steps and a tare button. These two features matter most. Tare resets the display to zero with the bowl on, so you can add ingredients one after another.
    • Ounce steps, if you think in ounces. Some scales read 0.05 oz, others 0.1 oz. For portions, either is fine; grams are more precise on every scale here.
    • Capacity. 11 lb (5 kg) covers nearly everything. Batch cooks and bakers may like the 15 lb Escali Arti or the 22 lb Etekcity Luminary.
    • Auto-off time. A scale that turns off after 2 minutes can reset mid-recipe. The Escali Primo waits 4 minutes and the Arti 5; the Etekcity Luminary lets you set 30 to 300 seconds in its app.
    • Cleaning. The Taylor Waterproof (IPX7) can be rinsed under the tap; the Escali Primo has a sealed panel; most others should only be wiped.
    • App or no app. App scales send weights to a nutrition database so you don’t type them. They also mean a phone, an account and your food log on the maker’s servers; read the privacy policy if that matters to you. A plain scale plus any of the calorie-tracking apps works too.
    • Batteries. AAA batteries are easy to replace. Rechargeable scales skip batteries; coin-cell scales need a secure battery door if you have small children.

    How to use a scale for weight loss (without obsessing)

    Two weeks to a better eye for portions

    1. Weigh the calorie-dense foodsStart with oils, nut butters, cheese, cereal, rice and pasta, where small misjudgments add the most calories.
    2. Compare with the labelCheck a "serving" on the package against what you usually pour.
    3. Log for two weeksUse a food app or a notebook; your eye gets better quickly.
    4. Then spot-checkWeigh once a week or when you start a new food, instead of every meal.

    Pair your scale with targets that fit you. The calorie calculator estimates your daily needs, and the macro calculator splits them into protein, carbs and fat; for most people trying to lose weight while keeping muscle, the protein calculator is the most useful one to check. If you prefer a lighter touch, weigh only the foods that are easy to overpour and use your hand for vegetables, which are hard to overeat. Our most filling foods list and healthy snacks guide show where portions matter least and most.

    What a kitchen scale can’t do

    A scale measures food; it doesn’t decide what’s on the plate. The most accurate gram count won’t make a meal more filling, and weighing everything forever isn’t necessary for most people. If weighing food makes you anxious, or you have a history of an eating disorder, skip it and talk with a clinician or registered dietitian about other ways to plan meals. A kitchen scale is also different from a bathroom scale: for tracking your own weight and body composition, see our best smart scales.

    For more on eating well while losing weight, start with the nutrition hub, compare eating patterns in the 10 best diets for weight loss, or browse other equipment in our gear guides.

    What we left out, and why

    • OXO Good Grips 11 lb Food Scale with Pull-Out Display. A well-known scale, but the maker’s site blocked our checks, so we could not confirm current specs, price or availability on its own page.
    • Ozeri Pronto ZK14. The maker’s page lists specs but no price; it sends shoppers to another store, so we could not confirm a maker price.
    • My Weigh KD-8000 and Zwilling Enfinigy. We could not find a current U.S. maker listing with a price.
    • Arboleaf CK10G. The maker’s page did not state the step size or auto-off time in its specs.
    • Coffee scales such as the Hario V60 Drip Scale, which max out at 2 kg and are built for brewing rather than meals.
  • 10 Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Home Strength Training (2026)

    10 Best Adjustable Dumbbells for Home Strength Training (2026)

    In short: For most people starting strength training at home, our top researched pick is the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set ($380 to $430): a simple twist of the handle sets each dumbbell anywhere from 5 to 50 lb in 5 lb steps. If you are starting light or short on space, the PowerBlock Sport 24 ($219) goes from 3 to 24 lb in 3 lb steps, and on a tight budget the CAP Strength 40 lb Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell Set ($50) does the job with spin-lock collars. Specs and prices are maker-stated and were checked on October 6, 2026.

    Adjustable dumbbells are one of the most useful pieces of home gear for weight loss, because strength training helps you keep muscle while the scale goes down. If you are new to lifting, our strength training guide explains why it matters and how to start; this page is the dated shortlist of dumbbells that go with it. We research; we don’t test, and we have not lifted these dumbbells ourselves.

    The picks

    Safety comes first in our gear lists, and with adjustable dumbbells that matters more than usual: several popular dial-type models have been recalled because plates came loose during use (details below). On October 6, 2026 we searched the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recalls for every brand on this list. The one recall we found, for 5 lb grip handles sold with PowerBlock’s Commercial Pro 100 set, does not cover any model listed here. With safety equal, the order reflects fit for a beginner’s home strength routine, then maker-stated specs against price, then warranty and returns.

    10 adjustable dumbbells, researched

    1. 1. Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set

      Best for Most beginners who want one pair to grow with

      • 5 to 50 lb per dumbbell in 5 lb steps
      • twist-handle adjustment
      • aluminum cradles included
      • 2-year parts warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $380 to $430 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback 5 lb jumps are big for small muscles like shoulders, and the dumbbell gets longer (14.5 in) as you add weight

    2. 2. PowerBlock Sport 24

      Best for Starting light, rehab-style work and small spaces

      • 3 to 24 lb per dumbbell in 3 lb steps
      • 10 x 5.5 in
      • magnetic selector pin, no stand needed

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $219 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Tops out at 24 lb, so leg exercises may outgrow it within months

    3. 3. CAP Strength 40 lb Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell Set

      Best for The lowest price for real progression

      • (4) 5 lb and (4) 2.5 lb cast-iron plates
      • 2 threaded handles
      • 4 spin-lock collars

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $50 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The 40 lb is the whole set, so each dumbbell tops out near 20 lb, and changing plates takes a minute

    4. 4. PowerBlock Pro 50

      Best for Room to progress in a compact block

      • 5 to 50 lb per dumbbell, replacing 19 pairs
      • 13 x 7 in
      • urethane-coated steel plates, color-coded

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $549 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The maker page doesn't state the warranty, and the block shape feels different from a round dumbbell

    5. 5. PowerBlock Pro 32

      Best for A mid-weight pair with a long warranty

      • 4 to 32 lb per dumbbell in 4 lb steps
      • 12 x 5.75 x 5.5 in
      • 5-year limited residential warranty

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $379 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback 32 lb cap, and it isn't compatible with Pro Series attachments

    6. 6. CAP Adjustabell G6 Round Adjustable Dumbbell

      Best for Choosing a size that matches your strength today

      • Sold as 12.5, 25 or 55 lb pairs
      • twist the handle on the tray to select weight
      • contoured full-rotation handle

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $85 to $300 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The maker page doesn't list the weight steps or dimensions

    7. 7. FED Fitness Flybird DB2 Quick Adjustable Dumbbell 55 lb

      Best for Quick changes between a few set weights

      • 15, 25, 35, 45 or 55 lb by twisting the handle
      • nylon-coated carbon-steel plates
      • sold as a pair

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $389 to $398 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback 10 lb jumps and a 15 lb starting weight are hard for beginners

    8. 8. PowerBlock Elite USA 90

      Best for Stronger lifters who want to expand later

      • 50, 70 or 90 lb stages
      • 2.5 to 5 lb steps with the included micro weights
      • US-made welded steel plates

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $469 to $867 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The maker says the steel plates are louder than urethane

    9. 9. PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP

      Best for Long-term progression to heavy weights

      • Starts at 40 lb and adds 20 lb per expansion stage up to 100 lb
      • 2.5 to 5 lb steps
      • urethane plates, knurled or rubber grip

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $539 to $1,196 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Expensive to expand all the way, and more weight than most beginners need

    10. 10. NUOBELL-S Adjustable Dumbbells

      Best for A traditional dumbbell feel at heavier weights

      • 5 to 60 lb or 5 to 100 lb per dumbbell in 5 lb steps
      • twist-dial adjustment
      • 30-day returns

      Maker-stated specs

      Price $1,161 to $1,680 (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The 2-year warranty is void if the dumbbells are dropped

    All 10 picks compared

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell SetMost beginners who want one pair to grow with5 to 50 lb per dumbbell in 5 lb steps; twist-handle adjustment; aluminum cradles included; 2-year parts warranty$380 to $430Oct 6, 2026
    2PowerBlock Sport 24Starting light, rehab-style work and small spaces3 to 24 lb per dumbbell in 3 lb steps; 10 x 5.5 in; magnetic selector pin, no stand needed$219Oct 6, 2026
    3CAP Strength 40 lb Adjustable Cast Iron Dumbbell SetThe lowest price for real progression(4) 5 lb and (4) 2.5 lb cast-iron plates; 2 threaded handles; 4 spin-lock collars$50Oct 6, 2026
    4PowerBlock Pro 50Room to progress in a compact block5 to 50 lb per dumbbell, replacing 19 pairs; 13 x 7 in; urethane-coated steel plates, color-coded$549Oct 6, 2026
    5PowerBlock Pro 32A mid-weight pair with a long warranty4 to 32 lb per dumbbell in 4 lb steps; 12 x 5.75 x 5.5 in; 5-year limited residential warranty$379Oct 6, 2026
    6CAP Adjustabell G6 Round Adjustable DumbbellChoosing a size that matches your strength todaySold as 12.5, 25 or 55 lb pairs; twist the handle on the tray to select weight; contoured full-rotation handle$85 to $300Oct 6, 2026
    7FED Fitness Flybird DB2 Quick Adjustable Dumbbell 55 lbQuick changes between a few set weights15, 25, 35, 45 or 55 lb by twisting the handle; nylon-coated carbon-steel plates; sold as a pair$389 to $398Oct 6, 2026
    8PowerBlock Elite USA 90Stronger lifters who want to expand later50, 70 or 90 lb stages; 2.5 to 5 lb steps with the included micro weights; US-made welded steel plates$469 to $867Oct 6, 2026
    9PowerBlock Pro 100 EXPLong-term progression to heavy weightsStarts at 40 lb and adds 20 lb per expansion stage up to 100 lb; 2.5 to 5 lb steps; urethane plates, knurled or rubber grip$539 to $1,196Oct 6, 2026
    10NUOBELL-S Adjustable DumbbellsA traditional dumbbell feel at heavier weights5 to 60 lb or 5 to 100 lb per dumbbell in 5 lb steps; twist-dial adjustment; 30-day returns$1,161 to $1,680Oct 6, 2026

    Why these picks, and in this order

    • Core Home Fitness (1). It covers the range most beginners use for the first year or two (5 to 50 lb) with a twist-handle change and a stated 2-year parts warranty, at about the middle of the price range. The 5 lb steps are its main limit.
    • PowerBlock Sport 24 (2). It has the smallest steps on the list (3 lb) and the lowest starting weight (3 lb), which suits arm and shoulder moves, rehab-style exercise and anyone easing back in. It is also the most compact.
    • CAP spin-lock set (3). Classic plate-and-collar dumbbells are slower to change but have fewer moving parts, and $50 is a small bet if you are not yet sure you will keep lifting.
    • PowerBlock Pro 50 (4) and Pro 32 (5). Both use a magnetic selector pin and need no stand. The Pro 50 offers 19 settings up to 50 lb; the Pro 32 is lighter and is the only model here with a stated 5-year residential warranty.
    • CAP Adjustabell G6 (6) and FED DB2 (7). Each is quick to adjust, but the maker pages either leave out the weight steps (CAP) or offer only five settings 10 lb apart (FED).
    • Elite USA 90 (8), Pro 100 EXP (9) and NUOBELL-S (10). These are for people who already lift and want heavy presses and rows at home. They cost more, and you pay for weight you may not use for a long time.

    Weight range and steps at a glance

    Maker-stated weight range per dumbbellValues in lb
    Maker-stated weight range per dumbbell
    ItemLowHigh
    PowerBlock Sport 243 lb24 lb
    PowerBlock Pro 324 lb32 lb
    Core Home Fitness5 lb50 lb
    PowerBlock Pro 505 lb50 lb
    FED Fitness DB215 lb55 lb
    NUOBELL-S (100 lb version)5 lb100 lb

    Only picks whose maker page states both the lowest and highest weight are shown.

    Source: Maker product pages (Core Home Fitness, PowerBlock, FED Fitness, Bells of Steel for NUOBELL) (checked on October 6, 2026)

    Smallest weight step, by dumbbellValues in lb
    Smallest weight step, by dumbbell
    ItemValue
    PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP2.5 lb
    PowerBlock Elite USA 902.5 lb
    PowerBlock Sport 243 lb
    PowerBlock Pro 324 lb
    Core Home Fitness5 lb
    NUOBELL-S5 lb
    FED Fitness DB210 lb

    Smaller steps make it easier to add weight gradually. The PowerBlock Pro 100 EXP and Elite USA 90 reach 2.5 lb steps with included micro weights.

    Source: Maker product pages (PowerBlock, Core Home Fitness, Bells of Steel, FED Fitness) (checked on October 6, 2026)

    Why do steps matter? The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) suggests raising the load by 2 to 10% once you can do one or two more repetitions than your target. On a 10 lb dumbbell that is an extra 0.2 to 1 lb, so a 5 or 10 lb jump can feel like a wall for curls and shoulder presses. Bigger muscles, such as the legs in a goblet squat, handle bigger jumps more easily.

    Safety: why some dial dumbbells were recalled

    Many adjustable dumbbells use a dial or selector that locks some plates to the handle and leaves the rest in the tray. If a plate is not fully engaged, it can fall off mid-lift. The CPSC has announced several recalls for exactly that hazard:

    • BowFlex 552 and 1090 (June 5, 2025): about 3.8 million dumbbells sold from 2004 through May 2025. Nautilus received 337 reports of plates dislodging, including 111 injuries such as concussions and broken toes; Johnson Health Tech received 12 more reports.
    • FitRx SmartBell Quick-Select, 5 to 52.5 lb (April 23, 2026): about 50,000 units sold at Walmart; more than 115 reports and at least six injuries.
    • Amazon Basics 55 lb Adjustable Dumbbells (May 14, 2026): about 2,900 units; eight reports of plates disengaging, no injuries.
    • NordicTrack 50 lb iSelect (February 1, 2024): about 15,400 units; 40 incidents and 8 injuries.
    • PowerBlock Commercial Pro 100, 5 lb grip handles only (October 24, 2024): about 1,845 sets; plates above 55 lb could slip from those handles. Four reports, no injuries; free replacement handles.

    The 2025 BowFlex dumbbell recall in numbers

    • 3.8 millionBowFlex 552 and 1090 dumbbells recalledCPSC, June 2025
    • 337reports of plates dislodging during use (units sold by Nautilus)CPSC, June 2025
    • 111of those reports involved injuries, including concussions and broken toesCPSC, June 2025

    Checked on October 6, 2026

    We left the BowFlex 552 and 1090 off this list: units sold through May 2025 were recalled, and we could not confirm from the maker’s own pages how current units differ. None of the recalled models above is on our list. Whatever you buy, a few habits lower the risk:

    Five habits for safe adjustable dumbbells

    1. Look up the modelSearch the exact model on cpsc.gov before you buy, and again every few months.
    2. Seat it fullyReturn the dumbbell flat and fully into its tray or cradle before turning the dial.
    3. Check before you liftLift it a few inches over the tray and look for loose plates before a press over your face or head.
    4. Don't drop itSet it down; most dial mechanisms are not built for drops, and some warranties are void after one.
    5. Stop if it rattlesStop using any dumbbell whose plates shift or whose dial sticks, and contact the maker.

    How to choose between them

    1. Match the range to your next year, not your dream. Legs and back can handle much heavier weights than shoulders and arms, so a wide range (such as 5 to 50 lb) lets one pair serve both. If you are starting very light or mainly training your upper body, a 3 to 24 lb pair with small steps may suit you better.
    2. Look at the smallest step. 2.5 to 4 lb steps make steady progress easier than 5 or 10 lb jumps, especially for arms and shoulders.
    3. Decide how you want to adjust it. Twist handles and dials are fastest; selector pins are simple and need no tray; spin-lock plates are slowest but cheapest.
    4. Measure the space. Footprints run from 10 x 5.5 in (Sport 24) to a 22 x 16 in storage area (NUOBELL-S), plus a stand if you want one.
    5. Read the warranty. Stated warranties on this list range from 2 years of parts (Core, NUOBELL-S) to 5 years residential (PowerBlock Pro 32); some exclude drops.

    Our gear hub covers other home equipment, and if bands appeal more than weights, see our list of resistance band sets for beginners, which can build strength similar to free weights.

    How to use them: a simple starting plan

    The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend muscle-strengthening activity for all major muscle groups on at least 2 days a week, on top of 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity. For people new to lifting, the ACSM’s position stand on progression suggests a load you can lift 8 to 12 times with good form, 2 to 3 days a week, and working big muscle groups and multi-joint moves before small ones.

    A beginner's dumbbell session (2 to 3 days a week)

    1. Goblet squatHold one dumbbell at your chest and sit back to a chair height; 8 to 12 reps.
    2. One-arm rowHand and knee on a bench or sturdy chair, pull the dumbbell to your hip; 8 to 12 reps each side.
    3. Floor pressLie on your back, knees bent, press both dumbbells up from your chest; 8 to 12 reps.
    4. Romanian deadliftHinge at the hips with a flat back, dumbbells sliding down your thighs; 8 to 12 reps.
    5. Overhead pressPress both dumbbells from your shoulders to overhead, seated or standing; 8 to 12 reps.
    6. Add weight slowlyWhen you can do 1 to 2 reps more than your target, add about 2 to 10% next time.

    Start with one set of each and build to two or three over a few weeks. Our bodyweight home workouts list has moves you can mix in on days without weights, and the best exercises for weight loss list shows how circuit-style strength work compares with cardio for calories burned.

    What dumbbells can and can’t do for weight loss

    Lifting weights burns fewer calories per minute than brisk cardio: the 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities rates a standard weight-training session (8 to 15 reps at varied resistance) at 3.5 METs, against 4.8 for a brisk walk. Its real value during weight loss is protecting muscle. The ACSM notes that resistance training does not add much weight loss on its own but may increase fat-free mass and fat loss, and a 2021 overview of 12 systematic reviews found that resistance training reduced lean-mass loss during weight loss by about 0.8 kg (1.8 lb) on average.

    So dumbbells work best alongside a moderate calorie deficit, enough protein (our protein calculator estimates a range for you) and regular walking for weight loss. If you want to lose fat while keeping or building muscle, our guide to body recomposition explains how the pieces fit, and people taking GLP-1 medicines can read about protecting muscle on GLP-1s. To compare strength and cardio directly, see cardio vs strength training for weight loss; our calories burned calculator estimates what a session adds for your weight. Regular activity is one of the habits covered in our guide to maintaining weight loss, and how we choose our picks explains the method behind this list.

    Sources and last checked

    Weight ranges, steps, sizes, warranties and prices were read on each maker’s own product page on October 6, 2026: corehomefitness.com, powerblock.com, capbarbell.com, flybirdfitness.com (FED Fitness) and bellsofsteel.us (NUOBELL-S). Recall checks were run on cpsc.gov the same day. The full list of references is below. Updated: first published October 2026.

  • 15 Best Habits of People Who Keep Weight Off (Registry Research)

    15 Best Habits of People Who Keep Weight Off (Registry Research)

    In short: People who keep weight off for years tend to do the same few things: they weigh themselves regularly, keep some kind of support going, stay active for about an hour a day (mostly walking), and eat in a steady, planned way on weekdays, weekends and holidays alike. Most of this comes from the National Weight Control Registry, which has followed thousands of successful maintainers since 1993, and the strongest habits have also been tested in randomized trials. The encouraging part: in the registry, keeping weight off seemed to get easier after two to five years.

    This list ranks habits, not products, and nothing here is for sale. It sits alongside our full guide to keeping weight off, which explains why the body pushes back after weight loss and what to plan for. If you lost weight with a medicine, read life after a GLP-1 too, because stopping a medication raises different questions that belong with your prescriber.

    Who the registry studies, and why it matters

    The National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) was established in 1993; its first studies came from researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Colorado, and it is now run from Brown Medical School and The Miriam Hospital in Providence. To join, adults must have lost at least 30 pounds (13.6 kg) and kept it off for at least a year. The first study of 784 members, published in 1997, found they had lost an average of 30 kg (about 66 pounds). The registry’s own summary says members have lost an average of 66 pounds and kept it off for 5.5 years, with losses ranging from 30 to 300 pounds. About 45% lost weight on their own and 55% with a program.

    What National Weight Control Registry members reportValues in %
    What National Weight Control Registry members report
    ItemValue
    Changed what they ate to lose weight98%
    Increased physical activity94%
    Exercise about 1 hour a day90%
    Eat breakfast every day78%
    Weigh themselves at least once a week75%
    Watch under 10 hours of TV a week62%

    Self-reported by registry members. Shows how common each habit is among maintainers, not proof that it causes success.

    Source: National Weight Control Registry, NWCR Facts (Internet Archive capture of nwcr.ws, 2026-09-10) (checked on October 6, 2026)

    One honest limit: the registry is a group of people who already succeeded, and they report their own habits. It can show what successful maintainers have in common, but not on its own that a habit causes success. That is why we rank habits that were also tested in randomized trials, or that predicted regain when members were followed over time, above habits that are simply common among members.

    The 15 habits, ranked by evidence

    Each card says who the habit suits best, three evidence points, what it costs and one honest drawback. “Price” is what it takes to start: most of these habits are free.

    15 habits of people who keep weight off, ranked by evidence

    1. 1. Weigh yourself regularly

      Best for Anyone who wants an early warning system

      • 75% of registry members weigh in at least weekly
      • STOP Regain trial: daily weighing program cut the share regaining 5 lb or more to 45.7% vs 72.4%
      • members who weighed less often gained 4.0 kg vs 1.1 kg

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free with any scale (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Can feel stressful for some people; skip it if numbers trigger anxiety or disordered eating

    2. 2. Keep some ongoing support

      Best for People coming off a program or a big loss

      • STOP Regain: face-to-face support beat newsletters (2.5 vs 4.9 kg regained in 18 months)
      • Look AHEAD: 50.3% kept at least 5% off at 8 years with ongoing counseling
      • WRAP: a full year of support beat 12 weeks

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (a friend or group) to a program fee (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Support works while it lasts, so plan how you will keep it going

    3. 3. Stay active for about an hour a day

      Best for People who can build activity into most days

      • 90% of registry members exercise about an hour a day
      • average reported activity 2,621 kcal a week
      • less leisure activity predicted more regain over 10 years

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Amounts varied widely (25% reported under 1,000 kcal a week), so there is no single magic number

    4. 4. Make walking your base

      Best for Beginners and people with joint limits

      • Walking was the most common activity among the 94% who increased activity
      • NIDDK suggests 150 to 300 minutes or more a week to help keep weight off
      • easy to fit into errands and breaks

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free; shoes you like (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Walking alone burns fewer calories per minute than harder exercise, so it takes time

    5. 5. Eat consistently across the week

      Best for People whose weekends look very different from weekdays

      • Members who ate the same way all week were about 1.5 times more likely to stay within 5 lb of their weight over a year
      • less consistency, more regain

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Registry data, so it shows a link rather than proof

    6. 6. Keep holidays and vacations close to normal

      Best for Frequent travelers and big celebrators

      • The same study found that eating consistently across the year, not only the week, predicted less regain

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Needs planning ahead, and occasional celebrations are part of life

    7. 7. Keep a reduced-calorie pattern for your new weight

      Best for Everyone after a loss

      • Registry women reported about 1,306 kcal a day and men 1,685
      • NIDDK advises an eating plan matched to your new weight
      • falling dietary restraint predicted regain over 10 years

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Self-reported intake tends to be low; your own needs depend on size and activity

    8. 8. Track what you eat, at least some of the time

      Best for People who like data or notice "portion creep"

      • NIDDK lists daily monitoring of eating as a core program feature
      • in an online program, people who logged in to their food diary more often lost more
      • logging time fell from 23 to 15 minutes a day by month 6

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free to a paid app (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Takes time, and constant logging is hard to keep forever

    9. 9. Set a "regain line" and act on it

      Best for People who want a clear plan for slips

      • STOP Regain paired daily weighing with self-regulation, adjusting habits when the scale moved, and counted 5 lb (2.3 kg) as a regain
      • registry members who kept weighing caught gains before they grew

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Only works if you decide in advance what you will change when you reach the line

    10. 10. Watch less TV

      Best for People who snack or sit for long evenings

      • 62.3% of members watched 10 hours or less a week, against a national average of 28 hours
      • more TV, and increases in TV, predicted regain regardless of activity and diet

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Screen time has moved to phones and streaming, which this 2006 study did not measure

    11. 11. Notice when rich foods creep back

      Best for People who maintained on lower-fat or smaller portions

      • Members ate about 24% of calories from fat when studied
      • rising fat intake predicted regain over 10 years

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Older data from a low-fat era; modern evidence says total calories matter more than the fat share

    12. 12. Look after mood and stress

      Best for Emotional eaters and people under strain

      • Low depression and low "disinhibition" (losing control around food) were linked with long-term success
      • rising disinhibition predicted regain

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free to the cost of counseling (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Correlational; if mood is low, talking to a professional matters more than any habit

    13. 13. Plan for the long haul

      Best for Anyone in their first year or two of maintenance

      • After 2 to 5 years of maintenance, the chance of longer-term success rose sharply
      • more than 87% of tracked members still kept at least 10% off at 5 and 10 years

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback The registry includes only people who already succeeded

    14. 14. Eat breakfast if it suits you

      Best for People who get overly hungry later in the day

      • 78% of members eat breakfast every day
      • but in a 16-week trial of 309 adults, being told to eat or skip breakfast made no difference to weight loss

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback A trial found no effect on losing weight, so treat it as a personal preference

    15. 15. Strength train twice a week

      Best for People who want to protect muscle and strength

      • Physical Activity Guidelines advise muscle-strengthening on 2 or more days a week
      • supports function as you age
      • pairs well with daily walking

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (bodyweight) to equipment (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Not studied as a maintenance habit in the registry papers we used

    All 15 habits side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Weigh yourself regularlyAnyone who wants an early warning system75% of registry members weigh in at least weekly; STOP Regain trial: daily weighing program cut the share regaining 5 lb or more to 45.7% vs 72.4%; members who weighed less often gained 4.0 kg vs 1.1 kgFree with any scaleOct 6, 2026
    2Keep some ongoing supportPeople coming off a program or a big lossSTOP Regain: face-to-face support beat newsletters (2.5 vs 4.9 kg regained in 18 months); Look AHEAD: 50.3% kept at least 5% off at 8 years with ongoing counseling; WRAP: a full year of support beat 12 weeksFree (a friend or group) to a program feeOct 6, 2026
    3Stay active for about an hour a dayPeople who can build activity into most days90% of registry members exercise about an hour a day; average reported activity 2,621 kcal a week; less leisure activity predicted more regain over 10 yearsFreeOct 6, 2026
    4Make walking your baseBeginners and people with joint limitsWalking was the most common activity among the 94% who increased activity; NIDDK suggests 150 to 300 minutes or more a week to help keep weight off; easy to fit into errands and breaksFree; shoes you likeOct 6, 2026
    5Eat consistently across the weekPeople whose weekends look very different from weekdaysMembers who ate the same way all week were about 1.5 times more likely to stay within 5 lb of their weight over a year; less consistency, more regainFreeOct 6, 2026
    6Keep holidays and vacations close to normalFrequent travelers and big celebratorsThe same study found that eating consistently across the year, not only the week, predicted less regainFreeOct 6, 2026
    7Keep a reduced-calorie pattern for your new weightEveryone after a lossRegistry women reported about 1,306 kcal a day and men 1,685; NIDDK advises an eating plan matched to your new weight; falling dietary restraint predicted regain over 10 yearsFreeOct 6, 2026
    8Track what you eat, at least some of the timePeople who like data or notice "portion creep"NIDDK lists daily monitoring of eating as a core program feature; in an online program, people who logged in to their food diary more often lost more; logging time fell from 23 to 15 minutes a day by month 6Free to a paid appOct 6, 2026
    9Set a "regain line" and act on itPeople who want a clear plan for slipsSTOP Regain paired daily weighing with self-regulation, adjusting habits when the scale moved, and counted 5 lb (2.3 kg) as a regain; registry members who kept weighing caught gains before they grewFreeOct 6, 2026
    10Watch less TVPeople who snack or sit for long evenings62.3% of members watched 10 hours or less a week, against a national average of 28 hours; more TV, and increases in TV, predicted regain regardless of activity and dietFreeOct 6, 2026
    11Notice when rich foods creep backPeople who maintained on lower-fat or smaller portionsMembers ate about 24% of calories from fat when studied; rising fat intake predicted regain over 10 yearsFreeOct 6, 2026
    12Look after mood and stressEmotional eaters and people under strainLow depression and low "disinhibition" (losing control around food) were linked with long-term success; rising disinhibition predicted regainFree to the cost of counselingOct 6, 2026
    13Plan for the long haulAnyone in their first year or two of maintenanceAfter 2 to 5 years of maintenance, the chance of longer-term success rose sharply; more than 87% of tracked members still kept at least 10% off at 5 and 10 yearsFreeOct 6, 2026
    14Eat breakfast if it suits youPeople who get overly hungry later in the day78% of members eat breakfast every day; but in a 16-week trial of 309 adults, being told to eat or skip breakfast made no difference to weight lossFreeOct 6, 2026
    15Strength train twice a weekPeople who want to protect muscle and strengthPhysical Activity Guidelines advise muscle-strengthening on 2 or more days a week; supports function as you age; pairs well with daily walkingFree (bodyweight) to equipmentOct 6, 2026

    Why weighing yourself and support come first

    The top two habits are the ones with randomized-trial evidence specifically about maintenance. In the STOP Regain trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2006, 314 adults who had recently lost an average of 19.3 kg were assigned to quarterly newsletters, or to a program built on daily self-weighing and self-regulation (adjusting habits in response to the scale), delivered either face to face or online. Over 18 months, the face-to-face group regained 2.5 kg on average, compared with 4.9 kg in the newsletter group, and the share who regained 2.3 kg (about 5 pounds) or more dropped from 72.4% to 45.7%. Daily weighing increased in both program groups and was linked with a lower risk of regain.

    STOP Regain trial: share who regained 5 lb (2.3 kg) or more in 18 monthsValues in %
    STOP Regain trial: share who regained 5 lb (2.3 kg) or more in 18 months
    ItemValue
    Newsletters only72.4%
    Online program54.8%
    Face-to-face program45.7%

    Both programs emphasized daily self-weighing and self-regulation. Average regain: 4.9, 4.7 and 2.5 kg.

    Source: Wing RR et al., New England Journal of Medicine 2006 (314 adults) (checked on October 6, 2026)

    Registry data point the same way. In a study of 3,003 members, those whose weighing became less frequent over a year gained 4.0 kg, compared with 1.1 kg for those who weighed more often and 1.8 kg for those who kept the same routine. A scale is simply a way to see small changes while they are still small. Any reliable scale works; if you want one that keeps a log for you, our best smart scales list compares them, and our weight loss calculator helps you set a realistic target range rather than a single number.

    Support is the other proven ingredient. In Look AHEAD, a long trial of 5,145 adults with type 2 diabetes, the group that kept getting behavioral counseling for eight years still had 4.7% of their weight off on average, against 2.1% in the comparison group, and 50.3% kept off at least 5%. Support can be a program, a group, a coach or a friend you check in with each week. Our list of the best non-prescription weight-loss programs shows which programs have the best evidence.

    Look AHEAD after eight years

    Checked on October 6, 2026

    Activity: an hour a day, mostly walking

    Registry members are a very active group. A 2008 study of 3,683 members found they reported an average of 2,621 calories a week of physical activity, but the range was wide: a quarter reported under 1,000 calories a week and about a third more than 3,000. Walking was the most common activity. Over ten years of follow-up, members whose leisure-time activity dropped were more likely to regain. That fits national advice: the NIDDK suggests 150 to 300 minutes or more of activity a week to help prevent regain, and the federal Physical Activity Guidelines add muscle-strengthening on two or more days.

    An hour a day sounds like a lot, but it does not have to be one session. The 2018 guidelines dropped the old rule that activity only counts in bouts of 10 minutes or more, so a walk after each meal adds up. Our walking guide has a starter plan, the calories burned calculator shows what different activities add, and strength training covers the twice-weekly part. A fitness tracker can count steps, but your own routine matters more than the device.

    Eating: steady, planned and matched to your new weight

    The eating habits in the registry are less about a special diet and more about steadiness. In a 2004 study of 1,429 members followed for a year, people who ate the same way on weekdays and weekends were about 1.5 times more likely to stay within 5 pounds of their weight than people who were strict on weekdays and relaxed on weekends; the same was true for eating consistently through holidays and vacations. Members reported fairly low intakes, about 1,306 calories a day for women and 1,685 for men in an early study, and over ten years, falling “dietary restraint” (planning and limiting what you eat) predicted regain.

    Your body needs fewer calories at a lower weight, which is why the NIDDK recommends an eating plan matched to your new weight rather than a return to old portions. The TDEE calculator estimates what that might be, and our metabolism guide explains how much the body really slows down. Filling, high-protein meals make a steady pattern easier; see the best filling foods. If you like tracking, a food log helps you notice drift: our best weight-loss apps compares logging apps, free and paid.

    Breakfast and TV: common habits with weaker evidence

    Seventy-eight percent of registry members eat breakfast every day, and only 4% never do. That made breakfast a famous “secret” of maintainers. But when researchers tested it in a randomized trial of 309 adults trying to lose weight, telling people to eat breakfast or to skip it made no difference to weight after 16 weeks. So eat breakfast if it keeps you from getting overly hungry later, and skip it if it doesn’t. Limiting TV has a little more support: in a 2006 study of 1,422 members, both more TV at the start and increases in TV over the year predicted regain, even after accounting for activity and diet.

    It can get easier with time

    The most hopeful finding from the registry is about time. In a 2014 study that followed 2,886 members for up to ten years, average loss was 31.3 kg when they joined, 23.8 kg at five years and 23.1 kg at ten years, and more than 87% were estimated to be keeping off at least 10% of their highest weight at both five and ten years. Larger initial losses and a longer time already maintained were linked with better results. Some regain was common, but most of the loss stayed off, and the habits that slipped (less activity, less weighing, less restraint, more fat, more disinhibition) were the ones linked with regain.

    Registry members followed for 10 years: average weight still lostValues in kg
    Registry members followed for 10 years: average weight still lost
    ItemValue
    When they joined31.3 kg
    After 5 years23.8 kg
    After 10 years23.1 kg

    Self-reported weights. 23 kg is about 51 lb. More than 87% kept off at least 10% at 5 and 10 years.

    Source: Thomas JG et al., American Journal of Preventive Medicine 2014 (2,886 NWCR members) (checked on October 6, 2026)

    How to start: pick three, not fifteen

    A simple maintenance starter plan

    1. Pick a weighing rhythmDaily or weekly, same time and conditions. Write down a "regain line" about 5 lb above your current weight.
    2. Decide what you will do at the lineFor example: log food for two weeks, add a daily walk, and check in with your support person.
    3. Book your supportA weekly check-in with a friend, group or program, on the calendar.
    4. Protect your movementA daily walk plus two short strength sessions a week.
    5. Review every monthLook at the trend, not single days, and adjust one habit at a time.

    Trying to change everything at once rarely lasts. Choose the two or three habits that fit your life best, usually weighing, support and a daily walk, and add others once those feel automatic. If you are still losing weight, our lose weight hub covers the earlier stage, and the programs hub lists structured options if you would like help.

    What habits can’t do

    Habits don’t switch off the biology that pushes weight back up after a loss, and some regain is normal even for people who do everything on this list. Regain is not a personal failure. If weight comes back despite steady habits, or if you have a condition that affects weight, talk with a clinician about whether longer-term medical care could help.

  • 10 Best Low-Impact Workouts for Weight Loss (Joint-Friendly)

    10 Best Low-Impact Workouts for Weight Loss (Joint-Friendly)

    In short: The low-impact workouts that burn the most calories are incline walking, stationary cycling and lap swimming, at roughly 200 to 320 calories per 30 minutes for people weighing 150 to 200 pounds. Water aerobics, Nordic walking, rowing, the elliptical and brisk walking follow close behind. All of them keep at least one foot (or your body weight) supported, which makes them easier on knees, hips and backs than running or jumping.

    This list is for people who want to lose weight without pounding their joints: those with knee or hip pain, arthritis, a higher body weight, or who are coming back from a long break. If joints are not a concern, our list of the best exercises for weight loss ranks every type of exercise, including running and HIIT. For the bigger picture, see our exercise hub. If you have a joint, heart or lung condition, ask your clinician which activities and intensities suit you.

    What “low impact” means here

    We counted a workout as low impact when there is no jumping or running phase: you keep a foot on the ground, a pedal or the water carries your weight. The CDC lists brisk walking, cycling, dancing, tai chi, swimming and water exercise as joint-friendly activities for people with arthritis, and every workout below fits that idea.

    We then ranked them the same way as all our exercise lists: first by energy cost in METs from the 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities (the reference researchers use), then by muscle benefit, then by joint load and accessibility, then by equipment. One MET is the energy you use sitting quietly, about 1 calorie per kilogram of body weight per hour. Calories below are MET x body weight in kg x 0.5 hour, for 150 lb (68 kg) and 200 lb (91 kg). The 2024 edition was built for adults aged 19 to 59, so treat the numbers as averages.

    The 10 best low-impact workouts

    10 low-impact workouts for weight loss, ranked

    1. 1. Incline walking or hill walking

      Best for Walkers who want running-level effort without the pounding

      • 7.0 METs on a 6 to 10% grade at a moderate-to-brisk pace
      • about 238 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 318 at 200 lb
      • strong leg and glute work

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free outdoors, or a treadmill with incline (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Steep grades load the calves and Achilles; build up the incline gradually

    2. 2. Stationary cycling

      Best for Knee-friendly cardio you can do while watching TV

      • 6.0 METs at 90 to 100 watts (4.0 at 50 watts, light)
      • about 204 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 272 at 200 lb
      • seated and fully supported

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Gym, or a bike at home (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Little upper-body work; set the seat height so your knee stays slightly bent at the bottom

    3. 3. Swimming laps

      Best for Arthritis, back pain or a higher body weight

      • 5.8 METs for slow, recreational freestyle
      • about 197 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 263 at 200 lb
      • water supports your weight

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Pool access (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Needs a pool and some skill; burn depends a lot on technique

    4. 4. Water aerobics

      Best for Group fun with almost no joint stress

      • 5.5 METs for general water aerobics (3.8 for water resistance exercises)
      • about 187 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 249 at 200 lb
      • no swimming skill needed

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Pool class (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Class times and pool access vary; the shallow-end effort is easy to underdo

    5. 5. Nordic walking (with poles)

      Best for Adding arms to a walk and taking load off the knees

      • 5.3 METs at 3.6 to 4.4 mph on level ground
      • about 180 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 240 at 200 lb
      • works shoulders and back too

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Walking poles (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Poles take a few sessions to use well

    6. 6. Rowing machine, moderate

      Best for Full-body cardio while seated

      • 5.0 METs at under 100 watts (7.5 at 100 to 149 watts)
      • about 170 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 227 at 200 lb
      • legs, back and arms

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Gym, or a rower at home (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Technique matters for the lower back; learn the leg-hip-arm order first

    7. 7. Elliptical trainer

      Best for Steady, smooth cardio at the gym

      • 5.0 METs at moderate effort (9.0 vigorous)
      • about 170 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 227 at 200 lb
      • feet never leave the pedals

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Gym, or a machine at home (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Easy to coast; the machine's calorie display may not match your real burn

    8. 8. Brisk walking

      Best for Beginners and anyone building a daily habit

      • 4.8 METs at 3.5 to 3.9 mph on level ground
      • about 163 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 218 at 200 lb
      • can be split into 10-minute walks

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free (walking shoes) (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Burns less per minute, so it takes more time

    9. 9. Low-impact aerobic dance

      Best for People who would rather move to music than count laps

      • 4.8 METs at moderate effort
      • about 163 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 218 at 200 lb
      • balance and coordination too

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free with online videos, or a class (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Turns and side steps can bother unstable knees; keep moves small at first

    10. 10. Power yoga

      Best for Strength, flexibility and balance in one session

      • 4.0 METs (hatha yoga 2.3)
      • about 136 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 181 at 200 lb
      • holds build muscle endurance

      Maker-stated specs

      Price Free with a mat (checked Oct 6, 2026)

      Drawback Burns the least on this list; some poses need changes for wrist, knee or back problems

    All 10 low-impact workouts side by side

    #PickBest forKey specs (maker-stated)Price rangeLast checked
    1Incline walking or hill walkingWalkers who want running-level effort without the pounding7.0 METs on a 6 to 10% grade at a moderate-to-brisk pace; about 238 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 318 at 200 lb; strong leg and glute workFree outdoors, or a treadmill with inclineOct 6, 2026
    2Stationary cyclingKnee-friendly cardio you can do while watching TV6.0 METs at 90 to 100 watts (4.0 at 50 watts, light); about 204 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 272 at 200 lb; seated and fully supportedGym, or a bike at homeOct 6, 2026
    3Swimming lapsArthritis, back pain or a higher body weight5.8 METs for slow, recreational freestyle; about 197 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 263 at 200 lb; water supports your weightPool accessOct 6, 2026
    4Water aerobicsGroup fun with almost no joint stress5.5 METs for general water aerobics (3.8 for water resistance exercises); about 187 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 249 at 200 lb; no swimming skill neededPool classOct 6, 2026
    5Nordic walking (with poles)Adding arms to a walk and taking load off the knees5.3 METs at 3.6 to 4.4 mph on level ground; about 180 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 240 at 200 lb; works shoulders and back tooWalking polesOct 6, 2026
    6Rowing machine, moderateFull-body cardio while seated5.0 METs at under 100 watts (7.5 at 100 to 149 watts); about 170 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 227 at 200 lb; legs, back and armsGym, or a rower at homeOct 6, 2026
    7Elliptical trainerSteady, smooth cardio at the gym5.0 METs at moderate effort (9.0 vigorous); about 170 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 227 at 200 lb; feet never leave the pedalsGym, or a machine at homeOct 6, 2026
    8Brisk walkingBeginners and anyone building a daily habit4.8 METs at 3.5 to 3.9 mph on level ground; about 163 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 218 at 200 lb; can be split into 10-minute walksFree (walking shoes)Oct 6, 2026
    9Low-impact aerobic dancePeople who would rather move to music than count laps4.8 METs at moderate effort; about 163 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 218 at 200 lb; balance and coordination tooFree with online videos, or a classOct 6, 2026
    10Power yogaStrength, flexibility and balance in one session4.0 METs (hatha yoga 2.3); about 136 kcal per 30 min at 150 lb, 181 at 200 lb; holds build muscle enduranceFree with a matOct 6, 2026
    Energy cost of each low-impact workout, in METsValues in METs
    Energy cost of each low-impact workout, in METs
    ItemValue
    Incline walking, 6 to 10% grade7 METs
    Stationary cycling, 90 to 100 W6 METs
    Swimming laps, slow freestyle5.8 METs
    Water aerobics, general5.5 METs
    Nordic walking, 3.6 to 4.4 mph5.3 METs
    Rowing machine, under 100 W5 METs
    Elliptical, moderate5 METs
    Brisk walking, 3.5 to 3.9 mph4.8 METs
    Low-impact aerobic dance4.8 METs
    Power yoga4 METs
    Tai chi, general3.3 METs
    Pilates, general2.8 METs

    1 MET is the energy used sitting quietly. Tai chi and Pilates are shown for comparison; they are not in the top 10.

    Source: 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities (checked on October 6, 2026)

    Why the order looks the way it does

    Energy cost comes first, so incline walking (7.0 METs) leads and power yoga (4.0) closes the list. Ties were broken by the next criterion: rowing sits above the elliptical (both 5.0 METs) because it works the back and arms harder, and brisk walking sits above low-impact dance (both 4.8) because it needs no class or video and has the steadiest joint load. Tai chi (3.3 METs) and Pilates (2.8) didn’t make the top 10 on calories, but they are excellent for balance and core strength, and tai chi is on the CDC’s list of joint-friendly activities.

    The intensity inside each workout matters as much as the choice. On a stationary bike, going from 50 watts (4.0 METs) to 90 to 100 watts (6.0) raises the burn by half; in the pool, fast freestyle is rated 9.8 METs against 5.8 for slow laps. You can climb the effort ladder over weeks without ever adding impact. Our calories burned calculator does the math for your weight and session length.

    Estimated calories in 30 minutes, by body weightValues in kcal
    Estimated calories in 30 minutes, by body weight
    Item150 lb200 lb
    Incline walking238 kcal318 kcal
    Stationary cycling, 90 to 100 W204 kcal272 kcal
    Swimming laps, slow197 kcal263 kcal
    Water aerobics187 kcal249 kcal
    Nordic walking180 kcal240 kcal
    Rowing, under 100 W170 kcal227 kcal
    Elliptical, moderate170 kcal227 kcal
    Brisk walking163 kcal218 kcal

    Calories = MET x body weight in kg x 0.5 hour, rounded. Averages for adults 19 to 59; your own burn will differ.

    Source: 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities (MET values); InstaTuck calculation (checked on October 6, 2026)

    How much to do

    The guidelines, for everyone and for people with arthritis

    Checked on October 6, 2026

    The CDC’s advice for adults with arthritis matches the general guidelines: at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity and at least 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity, with balance work added for older adults. It also says physical activity can reduce joint pain and improve function and mood. For weight loss specifically, the American College of Sports Medicine found that 150 to 250 minutes a week of moderate activity gives modest weight loss on its own, more than 250 minutes a week is linked with clinically significant loss, and activity works better combined with a moderate calorie deficit.

    A sample joint-friendly week

    Sample week (about 150 to 200 minutes)

    1. 3 walks30 to 40 minutes each, brisk on flat ground; add a gentle hill once a week when it feels easy.
    2. 2 machine or pool days30 minutes of cycling, rowing, the elliptical, swimming or water aerobics.
    3. 2 strength sessions20 minutes of chair squats, wall push-ups, band rows and glute bridges.
    4. 1 balance sessionTai chi, yoga or Pilates, or 10 minutes of balance moves after a walk.
    5. Short bouts countTwo or three 10-minute walks add up the same as one long one.

    Strength work matters because it helps you keep muscle while you lose fat. Our strength training guide explains how to start, our list of bodyweight home workouts includes chair-friendly moves, and resistance band sets add load without heavy weights. For walking tips by pace and step count, see walking for weight loss, and a walking pad can add light walking on workdays.

    Picking the right one for your situation

    • Knee or hip pain: water-based workouts and the stationary bike carry the least body weight through the joints. Many people start in the pool, then add flat walking as pain allows.
    • A higher body weight: the same MET value burns more calories the more you weigh, so even a brisk walk or a moderate bike ride adds up quickly. Check the maker’s user-weight limit on any machine before you buy or use it.
    • Older adults: the CDC suggests a mix of aerobic, muscle-strengthening and balance activities each week. Nordic walking, tai chi and water exercise all help with balance as well as fitness. Note that the 2024 Adult Compendium was built for adults aged 19 to 59.
    • Short on time: incline walking and the stationary bike let you raise the effort without impact, so a 20-minute session can still be a solid workout.
    • Bored easily: rotate. A walk, a dance video and a pool class in the same week keep things fresh, and enjoying it is what keeps you going.

    Starting safely with sore or stiff joints

    The CDC’s guidance is to start slowly and pay attention to how your body feels. Some pain, stiffness or swelling is normal when you begin or step up activity, and joint pain from activity should get better over time; if it doesn’t, contact your healthcare provider. A few practical tips:

    • Warm up for 5 minutes at an easy pace before you push the effort.
    • Change one thing at a time: longer, then faster, then steeper, not all three in the same week.
    • Mix your days. Alternating walking with the pool or bike spreads the load across different joints and muscles.
    • Choose supportive shoes for walking and keep a water bottle handy.

    What low-impact exercise can’t do

    No workout burns fat from one chosen spot; water aerobics won’t shrink your thighs any faster than walking will (our weight-loss myths page and belly fat guide explain why). Most weight loss still comes from eating a little less than you burn, and exercise helps you keep muscle, keep weight off and feel better. The TDEE calculator shows how activity changes your daily energy needs, and our guide to keeping weight off covers life after the first months. To compare walking with running directly, see walking vs running for weight loss.