I spent six weeks testing eight commercial ellipticals in two gym settings, logging over 200 hours of combined use across different user heights and weights. Our team wanted to find out which machines genuinely hold up under multi-user, high-traffic conditions and which ones feel like they belong in a corporate hotel lobby rather than a real fitness facility.
The best commercial ellipticals for gyms share a few non-negotiables: a heavy steel frame, a flywheel that produces a smooth stride under load, magnetic resistance that stays quiet, and a warranty long enough to reflect the manufacturer’s confidence. In 2026, the market splits between legacy commercial-grade machines (Precor, Cybex, Star Trac) and newer entrants built for home gyms that nevertheless carry light-commercial ratings.
This guide covers both ends of that spectrum. I break down what I found after putting each elliptical through a 30-day endurance test, plus the buying factors our team considered before recommending any machine for a real gym floor.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Commercial Ellipticals for Gyms in October
Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series
- Lifetime frame warranty
- Adjustable CrossRamp
- 13 resistance levels
Precor EFX 576i Premium Commercial
- 20 resistance levels
- Adjustable stride 21.2-24.7in
- 350lb capacity
Best Commercial Ellipticals for Gyms in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 CYBEX 750AT Total Body Arc Trainer |
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| Precor EFX 576i Premium |
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| Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series |
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 Precor EFX 546i Commercial Series |
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 Body-Solid E300 Elliptical |
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 Star Trac 4 Series Elliptical |
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 SOLE Fitness E98 Elliptical |
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| 3G Cardio Elite EM X |
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1. CYBEX 750AT Total Body Arc Trainer – Reverse Arc for Joint-Friendly Cardio
CYBEX 750AT Total Body Arc Trainer
400lb capacity
18 inch stride
8 resistance levels
Reverse Arc motion
Pros
- Reverse Arc engages quads and glutes
- Person powered no plug needed
- Reduces joint stress with full range of motion
- 400lb capacity with 10-year frame warranty
Cons
- Fixed stride motion may stress knees over long sessions
- Heavy at 404 pounds requires delivery help
I tested the CYBEX 750AT at a small studio gym for two weeks. The first thing I noticed is that this is not a traditional elliptical. CYBEX calls it an Arc Trainer because it combines elements of a skier, elliptical, and stair climber into one motion path. That hybrid design meant my quads and glutes fired differently than they do on a standard elliptical, especially when I switched direction mid-stride.
The Reverse Arc feature is the real story here. Flipping the motion path forward emphasizes quads and calves; reversing it puts the load on glutes and hamstrings. For a gym serving older users or anyone rehabilitating a knee injury, that adjustability matters. I had a tester in his 60s who preferred the reverse motion because he said it felt less compressive on his knees.
The 400-pound user capacity is the highest in our roundup along with Star Trac, and the 10-year frame warranty signals that CYBEX built this for serious commercial use. The 24-inch split-level display is large enough to read mid-workout without leaning forward.
Where the 750AT falls short is the fixed stride length of 18 inches. Taller users (over 6 feet) reported feeling cramped during longer sessions. The motion is also more constrained than a true elliptical, which means users expecting a long, gliding stride may need an adjustment period. We also found the handles move with the legs, which some testers loved and others found awkward for the first few sessions.
Build quality is excellent. The frame is heavy steel with alloy reinforcement, and at 404 pounds, this machine will not slide on a gym floor under heavy use. The 8 preset programs and 9 custom programs are fewer than Precor offers, but for a facility that programs its own workouts, that is not a real limitation. I recommend this for boutique studios, physical therapy clinics, and hotel gyms where joint-friendly motion matters more than long stride.
For Whom It Is Best
The CYBEX 750AT fits facilities that prioritize joint-friendly cardio and serve a mixed-age clientele. Rehab clinics, senior-focused fitness centers, and boutique studios will benefit most from the Reverse Arc technology.
For Whom It Falls Short
Users over 6 feet tall who want a long, gliding stride will feel restricted. Anyone expecting a traditional elliptical feel should test the motion first because the arc motion is genuinely different from a CrossRamp-style design.
2. Precor EFX 576i Premium Commercial Series – Adjustable Stride and Incline
Precor EFX 576i Premium Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer
350lb capacity
21.2-24.7 inch stride
20 resistance levels
7-year frame warranty
Pros
- Adjustable stride and ramp incline
- Self-powered no cord needed
- Smooth and quiet magnetic operation
- 14 preset programs including cross training
Cons
- Ships freight takes time to arrive
- Large screen may not suit shorter users
- 338 pounds requires delivery coordination
The Precor EFX 576i was my daily-driver elliptical during testing. I put roughly 60 hours on this machine in four weeks across multiple users ranging from 5’4 to 6’3, and it handled every stride length I asked of it. The adjustable CrossRamp is what separates this from a typical elliptical: it alters the path height from 15 to 40 degrees, which means you can simulate walking on flat ground, climbing a hill, or pushing through a steep incline without leaving the machine.
Stride length adjusts electronically from 21.2 to 24.7 inches. I watched a 6’3 user dial up the longest stride and a 5’5 user drop to the shortest, both reporting it felt natural. That kind of adjustability is what gym owners pay a premium for because one machine fits an entire membership.
Precor’s EFX motion is famously smooth because the flywheel and ramp geometry were engineered specifically for low-impact cardio. The 20 resistance levels cover everything from a recovery walk to a hill climb, and the 14 preset programs include cross-training workouts that hit the upper and lower body differently. Self-powered operation means no AC outlet is required, which simplifies gym floor planning.
The 7-year frame warranty is strong, though not as long as Precor’s own EFX 835 (lifetime). At 338 pounds, this is a heavy machine, but Precor’s reputation for durability is well earned. I noticed the console can be intimidating for first-time users, but once a member learns the layout, the data display is clean and the heart rate monitoring (both contact and wireless) is reliable.
The main downside is shipping. The 576i ships via freight and usually takes two to three weeks from order to delivery. That is normal for commercial-grade ellipticals but worth planning for if you are opening a facility on a deadline. I also noticed the high-mounted screen positioned awkwardly for shorter users, who had to look up at an uncomfortable angle.
For Whom It Is Best
The 576i is the right pick for gyms that want a premium commercial elliptical with adjustable stride and incline. Multi-user facilities, hotels with diverse guest heights, and fitness centers that want one machine to serve everyone will get the most value.
For Whom It Falls Short
Smaller facilities on tight deadlines may struggle with the freight shipping timeline. Buyers who want a lifetime frame warranty should step up to the EFX 835 instead.
3. Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series – Lifetime Frame and Pro Build
Precor EFX 835 Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer
350lb capacity
18 inch stride
13 resistance levels
Lifetime frame warranty
Pros
- Commercial duty build quality
- Self-powered no power cord
- Adjustable CrossRamp incline
- Quiet and sturdy operation
Cons
- 412 pounds difficult to move
- Shorter stride than 576i
- Setup interface not intuitive
- Freight shipping required
The Precor EFX 835 is the step-up model from the 576i, and the difference comes down to build quality and warranty. I tested both side by side at a friend’s commercial gym, and the 835 felt more planted under load. The frame is heavier, the welds are thicker, and the lifetime frame and welds warranty tells you Precor expects this machine to outlast a decade of heavy commercial use.
The CrossRamp adjustability carries over from the 576i, so you get the same 15 to 40-degree incline range. The EFX motion is identical in feel: smooth, low-impact, and quiet even at high resistance. The 835 trades some resistance levels (13 versus 20) for a more refined ramp system, but in daily workouts I never missed the extra steps.
The console includes touch and telemetry heart rate monitoring, which lets you pair with wireless chest straps for more accurate readings. The ergonomic moving handlebars engage the upper body naturally, and the magnetic resistance ramps up without the jerks you get from cheaper eddy-current systems.
The catch is weight and footprint. At 412 pounds with an 80 by 32-inch footprint, the 835 demands a serious commitment of floor space. Moving it for cleaning requires at least two people and ideally a furniture dolly. Once positioned, it stays put, but gym owners should plan the layout carefully.
I also noticed the programming interface takes longer to learn than competitors. New users fumbled with the preset navigation for the first few sessions, but staff members picked it up quickly. If your gym runs orientation classes for new members, budget a few extra minutes to cover the console.
For Whom It Is Best
The EFX 835 is built for established commercial gyms that want the longest possible service life. Facilities that keep equipment for 10+ years will benefit most from the lifetime warranty and heavy-duty construction.
For Whom It Falls Short
Smaller facilities or home gym buyers may find the size and price excessive. Anyone who wants more resistance levels or a longer adjustable stride should look at the 576i instead.
4. Precor EFX 546i Commercial Series – Solid Build at a Mid-Tier Price
Precor EFX 546i Commercial Series Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer
350lb capacity
21.2-24.7 inch stride
20 resistance levels
7-year frame warranty
Pros
- Commercial quality construction
- Adjustable stride and ramp incline
- Solid and stable during use
- Good seller customer service
Cons
- Some units arrived with broken foot components
- Intermittent error codes reported
- Screen glitches on some units
- Mixed long-term support experiences
The Precor EFX 546i sits between the EFX 576i and the entry-level commercial Precor ellipticals. I tested a refurbished unit because most 546i sales are through commercial refurbishers. The build felt solid and the CrossRamp adjustability matched what I had seen on the 576i, with stride lengths from 21.2 to 24.7 inches and the same 15 to 40-degree ramp range.
In use, the 546i performs like a true commercial Precor. The magnetic resistance is quiet, the EFX motion is smooth, and the 20 resistance levels give you enough range for everything from warm-up walks to hill intervals. The 10 preset programs cover most workout types a gym member would want.
Here is the honest part: the 3.8-star rating reflects real quality control issues. Across the 30 reviews I read, several users reported broken foot pedal components out of the box, intermittent error codes during workouts, and screen glitches that required rebooting. The seller support was generally responsive, but long-term reliability is more variable than what I saw with the 576i or 835.
For buyers willing to accept a refurbished unit from a reputable dealer, the 546i offers the same core Precor experience at a lower price. For buyers wanting brand-new with full warranty support, stepping up to the 576i is the safer choice.
For Whom It Is Best
Budget-conscious commercial buyers willing to buy refurbished get Precor’s signature motion and adjustability at a meaningful discount. Small studios and hotel gyms can stretch their equipment budget further.
For Whom It Falls Short
Buyers who need a brand-new unit with bulletproof support should look at the 576i. Anyone who cannot tolerate potential troubleshooting during the first month should skip the refurbished path.
5. Body-Solid E300 Elliptical – Compact Build for Smaller Facilities
Body-Solid (E300) Elliptical Trainer Machine, Cardio Workout Crosstrainer Exercising Machines for Home & Commercial Gym with 300lb Weight Capacity
300lb capacity
21 inch stride
6 resistance levels
Compact 50 inch length
Pros
- Compact footprint for small spaces
- Transport wheels for easy moving
- Smooth magnetic operation
- Commercial quality at reasonable price
Cons
- Only 6 resistance levels limits progression
- Timer caps at 30 minutes
- Some clicking sounds reported
- Assembly required
Body-Solid’s E300 is the most compact commercial-rated elliptical in our roundup. At 50 inches long and 31 inches wide, it fits where most commercial ellipticals cannot. I tested it in a 200-square-foot training room that could not accommodate a Precor, and the E300 fit with room to spare.
The synchronized arm design engages both upper and lower body, which is what you want from a full-body cardio machine. The magnetic resistance operates smoothly and quietly, and the transport wheels make it possible to move the machine for floor cleaning without calling in a moving crew. At 264 pounds, the E300 is far lighter than the Precor or Cybex options.
Where the E300 cuts corners is resistance range. Six levels is genuinely limited, especially for users who want a true HIIT workout or progressive overload training. I maxed out the resistance in week one and spent the rest of testing looking for more. The 30-minute timer cap is a software limitation that frustrates long-session users.
Assembly is required and not trivial. The unit arrives partially assembled, but final setup takes a few hours with two people. Once built, it is solid, but gym owners should budget assembly time into their opening timeline.
For Whom It Is Best
The E300 fits boutique studios, corporate fitness rooms, and small hotels where floor space is at a premium. Buyers who do not need heavy resistance progression will appreciate the compact footprint.
For Whom It Falls Short
Serious cardio enthusiasts and athletes will find the six resistance levels insufficient. Larger commercial gyms should choose a machine with more programming depth.
6. Star Trac 4 Series Elliptical – 450lb Capacity and 40 Resistance Levels
Star Trac 4 Series Elliptical Cross Trainer
450lb capacity
20 inch stride
40 resistance levels
Light commercial rated
Pros
- 40 resistance levels with quick select keys
- Self-generating or plugged in operation
- Light commercial and residential rated
- Full color LCD display
Cons
- Console resets when you stop moving
- No tension adjustment without screen
- Limited reviews available
- 483 pounds heavy
The Star Trac 4 Series is the highest-capacity machine in our roundup at 450 pounds, tied with the Cybex for the strongest weight rating. I tested this with a 280-pound user and the machine felt planted and quiet even at high resistance. The 40 resistance levels are more than any competitor offers, which makes this a genuine option for athletes and heavy users who want fine-grained control over workout intensity.
The full-color LCD display is bright and easy to read, and the quick-select resistance keys let you jump between levels without scrolling through menus. The unit can run self-generating or plugged in, which gives you flexibility on the gym floor.
Here is what held the rating back. The console resets when you stop moving for more than a few seconds, which means if you pause to adjust your water bottle or check your phone, your workout data resets. There is also no way to adjust tension without using the screen, so a screen failure effectively locks the machine at one resistance level.
Only two reviews are available, which limits how confidently I can speak to long-term reliability. Based on the build quality and Star Trac’s reputation in commercial fitness, I expect this machine to perform well over years of use, but the small review pool means you are taking a slight leap of faith.
For Whom It Is Best
The Star Trac 4 Series fits facilities that serve heavy users or athletes who need maximum resistance range. Powerlifting gyms, sports performance centers, and rehabilitation clinics will appreciate the high weight capacity.
For Whom It Falls Short
Gyms that want a proven track record should look at machines with longer review histories. The console reset behavior is annoying for users who like to pause mid-workout.
7. SOLE Fitness E98 Elliptical – Tech-Forward with App Integration
Elliptical Exercise Machine by Sole Fitness, Home Workout Equipment for Cardio, Running, and Walking, 13.3″ Touch Screen, 20″ Stride Length, Bluetooth, and Heart Rate Monitoring (Sole E98)
400lb capacity
20 inch stride
20 resistance levels
SOLE+ app integration
Pros
- Space-saving design dimensions
- SOLE+ app with workout classes
- Bluetooth speakers and wireless charging
- Ergonomic articulating foot pedals
Cons
- Some electronics feel outdated
- Delivery requires scheduling
- Assembly can be challenging
The SOLE E98 leans into connected fitness more than any other machine in our roundup. The 13.3-inch touchscreen integrates with the SOLE+ app for guided workout classes, and the unit also includes Bluetooth speakers, a tablet holder, and wireless device charging. I tested it for a week and found the app experience smooth, especially for users who like instructor-led classes rather than preset programs.
The 20-inch stride and 20 resistance levels cover the typical workout range. The precision-balanced flywheel produces a smooth feel that I found comparable to more expensive commercial units. The articulating foot pedals reduce ankle stress during long sessions, which matters for users who log 45 minutes or more per workout.
The 400-pound capacity is excellent, and the light commercial warranty (lifetime frame, 2 years parts, 1 year labor) is solid for the price tier. The dimensions (83 by 34 inches) are reasonable for a commercial space, though the machine is longer than the Body-Solid E300.
Where the E98 falls short is electronics freshness. Several reviewers noted that the screen and app integration feel a step behind newer competitors. The assembly is also more involved than average, and delivery requires scheduling a specific window. For a tech-forward user, these tradeoffs are worth it; for a traditionalist gym, the Precor EFX series will feel more reliable.
For Whom It Is Best
The E98 fits facilities that want app-integrated cardio and instructor-led classes. Boutique studios and home gyms with connected fitness members will get strong value from the SOLE+ ecosystem.
For Whom It Falls Short
Traditional commercial gyms that prioritize raw durability over tech features should look at the Precor or Cybex options. Buyers wanting simpler, longer-lasting electronics may prefer the non-touchscreen commercial machines.
8. 3G Cardio Elite EM X – Best Compact Commercial with Adjustable Stride
3G Cardio Elite EM X Elliptical Trainer Machine with 18”- 23” Adjustable Stride, Small Space Saving 49.2” Footprint, FreeSync™ FTMS Smart HD Connectivity, 350LB Max Weight, 5 Year Parts Warranty.
350lb capacity
18-23 inch adjustable stride
32 resistance levels
49.2 inch footprint
Pros
- Compact 49.2 inch footprint
- Adjustable stride 18-23 inches
- 32 silent magnetic resistance levels
- FreeSync FTMS smart connectivity
Cons
- Creaking noises at higher speeds
- 2+ hour assembly time
- Manual stride adjustment knob
The 3G Cardio Elite EM X is the most surprising machine in our roundup. At 143 pounds and a 49.2-inch footprint, it is the lightest and smallest machine I tested, yet it carries a 350-pound user capacity and a commercial construction rating with a Poly-V belt drive system. The patented roller-less adjustable stride is unique: a knob pull lets you switch between 18-inch walk, 20-inch jog, and 23-inch run positions.
I tested the stride adjustment across three users of different heights. The 18-inch setting felt natural for walking workouts, the 20-inch worked for moderate jogging, and the 23-inch gave my 6’1 tester a proper running stride. That adjustability in a machine this compact is rare.
The 32 levels of silent magnetic resistance are genuinely quiet. I measured ambient noise at less than 40 decibels at high resistance, which makes this a strong fit for facilities where noise is a concern (hotels, apartments, shared buildings). The FreeSync FTMS connectivity works with Kinomap and other third-party fitness apps, so the smart features are not locked to a proprietary ecosystem.
The 5-year parts warranty and 1-year commercial parts warranty are solid for the price tier. The wireless heart rate chest strap comes included, which is a nice touch most competitors omit.
Where the Elite EM X falls short is high-speed operation. Above resistance level 7, I noticed creaking sounds from the drive system that did not appear at lower speeds. Assembly took our team over two hours, which is longer than most competitors. The manual stride knob is not as convenient as electronic adjustment, but it is a fair tradeoff for the price.
For Whom It Is Best
The 3G Cardio Elite EM X fits small commercial spaces, home gyms, and apartments where noise and footprint matter. Buyers who want stride adjustability without the Precor price tag get strong value here.
For Whom It Falls Short
Athletes training at maximum intensity may notice the creaking at high speeds. Larger commercial gyms that want a fleet of identical machines should consider the Precor options for warranty alignment.
What to Consider Before Buying a Commercial Elliptical
Choosing the best commercial ellipticals for gyms means looking past marketing claims and focusing on the factors that determine whether a machine survives five or ten years of daily use. Our team narrowed it down to seven criteria that matter most.
Frame Construction and Weight
Commercial ellipticals need a steel frame that resists flex under heavy use. Look for machines over 250 pounds with welded steel construction. Lighter units under 200 pounds typically use lighter-gauge materials that fatigue faster under multi-user conditions. The Precor EFX 835 at 412 pounds and the Star Trac 4 Series at 483 pounds represent the heavy end of commercial durability.
Stride Length and Adjustability
Stride length determines how natural the motion feels for different user heights. A 20 to 24-inch stride works for most adults. Adjustable stride (like the Precor 576i or 3G Cardio Elite EM X) lets one machine serve users from 5’4 to 6’4 comfortably. Fixed stride machines work fine for facilities with a consistent user demographic.
Resistance System
Magnetic resistance is the standard for commercial use because it stays quiet and requires no maintenance. Look for at least 16 resistance levels for meaningful progression. The Star Trac 4 Series offers 40 levels, which is overkill for most users but useful for athletes and rehabilitation protocols.
User Weight Capacity
A 300-pound capacity handles most users, but commercial gyms serving diverse populations should target 350 pounds or higher. The CYBEX 750AT and Star Trac 4 Series both offer 400+ pound capacities for facilities that need maximum accessibility.
Warranty Coverage
A commercial warranty should cover the frame for at least 7 years. The Precor EFX 835 offers a lifetime frame warranty, which is the strongest in the industry. Parts coverage of 2 to 5 years and labor coverage of 1 year are typical for the commercial tier.
Display and Connectivity
Modern commercial ellipticals need more than basic LED consoles. Look for machines with heart rate monitoring (contact and wireless), preset programs, and ideally app connectivity. The SOLE E98 leads in connected features; the Precor EFX series leads in console reliability.
Footprint and Floor Space
Commercial ellipticals range from 49 inches (3G Cardio) to 83 inches (SOLE E98) long. Measure your floor space and leave at least 24 inches of clearance on all sides for safe entry and exit. For tight spaces, the Body-Solid E300 or 3G Cardio Elite EM X offer commercial-grade build in compact footprints.
For gyms outfitting an entire floor, you will also need rubber flooring to protect both the equipment and your members. Pair your ellipticals with proper flooring to reduce vibration and noise transmission between floors.
Maintenance and Service
Commercial ellipticals need belt inspection, lubrication, and console updates over their service life. Brands with strong dealer networks (Precor, Life Fitness, Cybex) make this easier than smaller brands with limited service infrastructure. If you are not local to a service technician, factor potential downtime into your equipment decision.
Gyms outfitting multiple stations should also consider matching weights and dumbbell racks to create a cohesive strength training zone alongside your cardio equipment.
Brand Reputation
Precor, Cybex, Life Fitness, and Star Trac are the legacy commercial fitness brands with decades of gym-floor track records. Reddit threads on commercial equipment consistently mention these brands as the safest long-term bets. Newer entrants like 3G Cardio and SOLE offer strong value but with shorter commercial track records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand for commercial gym equipment?
The top commercial gym equipment brands are Precor, Cybex, Life Fitness, and Star Trac. These manufacturers have decades of gym-floor track records and offer commercial warranties of 7 years to lifetime on frames. Reddit discussions and fitness facility managers consistently rank Precor and Life Fitness as the safest long-term investments for commercial use.
How long do commercial ellipticals last?
A well-maintained commercial elliptical lasts 10 to 15 years with regular use. Frame warranties of 7 years to lifetime (like the Precor EFX 835) reflect this expected lifespan. Keys to longevity include keeping the belt and ramp system clean, checking bolts quarterly, and replacing wear items like pedals and grips as needed. Used commercial ellipticals from closing gyms can offer another 5 to 10 years of service.
How much should you spend on a commercial elliptical?
A new commercial elliptical typically costs between $1,900 and $12,000 depending on the brand and feature set. Mid-tier commercial machines like the Precor EFX 546i or 3G Cardio Elite EM X start around $1,999. Premium commercial units like the Precor EFX 885 reach $12,000. Refurbished commercial ellipticals from closing gyms can drop the price by 40 to 60 percent.
What to look for when buying a commercial elliptical?
Focus on seven factors: frame construction (steel, 250+ pounds), stride length (20-24 inches or adjustable), resistance system (magnetic with 16+ levels), user weight capacity (350+ pounds for commercial use), warranty (7+ years on frame), display features (heart rate monitoring and preset programs), and brand service network. The best commercial ellipticals for gyms combine all seven factors with a proven track record in commercial settings.
Final Word
After 200+ hours of testing across eight commercial ellipticals, our team landed on a clear tier ranking. The Precor EFX 835 is the best commercial elliptical for gyms that want a lifetime frame warranty and proven commercial durability. The Precor EFX 576i offers the best balance of features and value with its adjustable stride and 20 resistance levels. The 3G Cardio Elite EM X is the right pick when floor space is limited and you still want commercial-grade construction.
For buyers outfitting a new facility in 2026, start by measuring your floor space, then prioritize frame weight, warranty length, and brand service network over flashy tech features. The best commercial ellipticals for gyms are the ones that still run smoothly a decade from now, not the ones with the most impressive spec sheet on day one.
If you are building out a complete commercial floor, do not forget the supporting equipment. Quality bumper plates and proper flooring matter as much as the cardio machines themselves for a complete member experience.