Are you looking for a fun exercise machine that will help you get fit while being friendly to your joints?
If so, then you may want to take a closer look at the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT. This semi-elliptical cross trainer provides an effective cardiovascular workout that’s completely low impact.
Considered a recumbent elliptical machine, this is an ideal piece of exercise equipment for people who have mobility problems or disabilities or for those who are new to exercising.
Things to Consider Before Buying Cardio Equipment
The HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT is one example of a cardio machine that you can bring home.
This is a fairly large investment, but if you enjoy using it, then you’ll probably use it frequently. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy better health over the long term.
You want to make a wise purchase, and for many people, that may mean choosing a machine like the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT.
This machine makes sense because it gives you a full-body cardio workout that’s totally low impact.
The upshot is that you can exercise your entire body with one machine, and it’s unlikely to hurt your joints.
If you’ve never purchased cardio equipment before, you may need to know more about what you’re looking for. Here are some guidelines.
Will It Fit in Your Home?
Some people are fortunate to have a dedicated gym in their home.
Whether you have a private gym or need to fit the equipment in another room that serves multiple purposes, it’s critical that you ensure that the equipment will fit in the space.
Check out the manufacturer’s specifications with regard to all measurements, including the footprint of the machine.
Take into consideration how the machine’s size could change when it’s in use.
The stride length on a stand-up elliptical machine can be long and it’s essential to allow for this so you don’t crash into any walls.
Can It Be Stored?
If you’ve got a dedicated home gym, then storage isn’t a huge consideration.
However, if you need to store your equipment when it’s not being used, then it’s wise to look for a machine that folds up or can be wheeled away.
Will You Actually Use It?
This is a big one that turns into a stumbling block for many. Before spending money on cardio equipment, take it for a test drive.
If you use and love the stationary bike or the elliptical machine at the gym, then these pieces of equipment are a safe bet for you.
However, if you’ve never used a rowing machine and suddenly decide to bring one home, this could be a misstep.
Before buying cardio equipment, try it out at your gym, and if you don’t belong to a gym, then find a showroom that will let you try equipment.
What’s Your Budget?
Once you start looking for cardio equipment, you’ll discover a wide range of prices.
You could spend about $100 on a budget-friendly machine, but it’s also possible to spend $3,000 or more on commercial-quality equipment.
While it may not be sensible to choose the cheapest equipment because it won’t be durable, it also isn’t necessary to invest big bucks to get a decent workout.
Most people are satisfied with a middle-of-the-road price that buys a decent piece of equipment.
The HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT
The HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT is compact for use in a home gym. Suitable for use by people of any fitness level, it offers a low-impact workout.
The recumbent position is attractive to people with mobility issues or disabilities because it’s easier to sit down on and stand up when your workout is complete.
Frequently seen in physical therapy settings, this machine relies on a semi-elliptical motion that produces minimum extension.
Rated as a medium-duty cross-training machine, this equipment is suited to home use and can accommodate users weighing up to 330 pounds.
Physio Step HXT Pros:
- Convenient step-through frame appeals to users of all abilities
- Suitable for users of all fitness levels
- Offers a low-impact workout
- Includes quick-release levers with rotatable grips for the hands to target different arm muscle groups
Physio Step HCT Cons:
- Not foldable
- The heart rate monitor is inaccurate
- No holder for a book or tablet
Features and Benefits
I like most of what the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT offers. Its drawbacks are few, and it’s a great place to start for those who are new to exercise because there’s no skill required.
In particular, I appreciate that this machine challenged me even though I’ve been exercising for years.
This demonstrates that this machine is suitable for everyone from the person making a comeback after years of being sedentary to the person who has worked out several days a week for several years.
Let’s explore the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT‘s features and benefits.
The Step-Through Frame
This feature is no big deal unless you need it. For anyone who has ever avoided certain cardio equipment that requires them to step up or over to mount it, this machine is ideal.
With a step-through frame and a low-entry seat, it’s easy for almost anyone to get in and out without issues.
People with mobility problems will appreciate this feature as it makes it easier to regularly exercise.
Build Quality
Rest assured that this machine is well-built and durable. The frame of the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT can be described as robust and sturdy so that you don’t have to worry about it breaking after a few uses.
The manufacturer is so confident in the build quality that the frame has a lifetime warranty. A three-year warranty is available for mechanical and electronic parts.
Adjustable Arms
Here’s one of the features of the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT that I find really thoughtful.
Each of the arms is equipped with a quick-release lever so you can efficiently adjust the arms to target different muscle groups.
Flip the lever to turn the handles and change your grip to either work different muscles or because it’s simply more comfortable for you.
Flipping the lever also lets you lengthen the handles, which is critical if you’re a smaller person.
Backlit LCD Screen
I love the size and readability of the LCD screen. The control buttons are large and are labeled in a fairly large font size, which makes them easier to read.
The LCD screen on the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT is bright and provides helpful metrics like time, distance, calories, heart rate and speed.
If you want to ensure that you’re hitting the fitness goals that your doctor or trainer has outlined for you, this LCD screen provides the data you need.
When you want to check your heart rate, shift your hand position to the handles on either side of the seat.
Variable Resistance
Here’s another one of those features that makes a huge difference in the longevity and usefulness of a cardio exercise machine.
The HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT features 16 levels of resistance. If you haven’t exercised in years, start out at level one.
You have lots of room for progress, especially since you can vary your speed and time spent in addition to the resistance.
This is a machine that continues to challenge you for years after beginning your fitness journey.
Adjustable Seat
The HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT‘s seat is adjustable so that it can accommodate users from four feet nine inches up to six feet two inches.
That’s a wide range, so almost anyone can use this equipment.
The seat is easy to adjust via a yellow handle, and it glides smoothly back and forth and locks securely into place.
Moreover, the seat is contoured so that it’s comfortable even during long, strenuous training days.
Workout Programs Included
One of the things that makes the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT a great choice for people who are new to exercise is that it’s so easy to start. You can simply sit down and start pedaling.
Alternatively, you can explore one or more of the 17 pre-programmed workouts.
Each program is unique with different durations and intensity levels so that you can get in a challenging workout without having to design it yourself.
You also have the option of designing four custom workouts to help you meet your personal fitness goals.
What Others Are Saying
As I was trying to get a better perspective on the overall user experience with the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT, I spent some time reading reviews from others who are working out with this machine.
I’m happy to report that I found lots of positive feedback, with people mentioning that they are in their 70s or 80s and regularly enjoy using this machine.
Reviewers also mention how easy it is to assemble and that the machine is “sturdy and well-designed.”
HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT Alternatives
These machines share some qualities with the HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT, but may be a better choice for some users.
XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper
The XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper is a more affordable option for those on tighter budgets. It offers a low-impact workout, but this time the user’s position is semi-recumbent.
With 24 resistance levels, you are always assured of an exercise session that will elevate your heart rate and give you just the right amount of challenge.
You still get a step-through frame with this machine, but instead of a semi-elliptical pedaling motion, this is definitely more of a straight back and forth stepper.
The arms are easy to adjust and the hand grips can be articulated for the user’s comfort.
XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 vs. Physio Step HXT
- More affordable
- Semi-recumbent rather than recumbent
- 24 resistance levels compared to 16
- Stepper motion rather than elliptical
>> Check Out Our Full Review of the XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 here < <
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer
Here is another more economical choice that also features a more natural stepping motion that may appeal to people with knee injuries.
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer may be attractive to some users as they have the option of sitting up straight or reclining back in a recumbent position.
Moreover, this equipment has adjustable handles so that you can focus on different upper body muscle groups during your workout.
A resting spot for your feet even lets you work just your arms if that is your focus for the day.
Equipped with a simple digital monitor, you can only view one metric at a time. Switching between data is easy thanks to the blue, bar-shaped button just below the readout display.
If a stepping motion and the option for arms-only operation appeal to you, this may be a great choice.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 vs. Physio Step HXT
- Lower price
- Stepping motion rather than elliptical
- Adjustable recumbent position
- Possible arms-only operation
> > Check Out Our Full Review of the Teeter FreeStep LT3 here < <
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike may appeal to larger people as it has a weight capacity of 350 pounds versus 330 pounds.
It’s also quite a bit more affordable than any alternatives listed here.
Some people may find that this machine is attractive because if offers a traditional cycling motion for the legs, which may be more comfortable than a stepping or elliptical motion.
The pedals on this recumbent bike are much smaller, which some people may find more difficult to use.
Although this machine has arms so that you can incorporate your upper body into your workouts, they are not articulated, and there are only eight levels of resistance.
People who prefer a cycling motion and want to save serious money will want to take a closer look at this option.
Sunny Health & Fitness Bike vs. Physio Step HXT
- Suitable for larger people
- Cycling motion rather than elliptical
- Very affordable
- Small pedals
- No articulation in arms
Final Thoughts
Staying in shape is easier when you have cardio equipment at home.
The HCI Fitness Physio Step HXT is a great choice because it offers a full-body, low impact workout and has a convenient step-through frame.
Pre-programmed workouts, tons of adjustability and high-quality construction make this exercise machine one that should definitely be on your list.
