Dealing with arthritic knees can make finding the right exercise equipment feel like navigating a minefield—one wrong move and you’re in for a world of pain. I’ve been there myself, watching my mom struggle to stay active while protecting her joints, and that’s exactly why I’ve spent months testing machines that actually work for sensitive knees.
The secret isn’t about pushing through pain—it’s about low-impact movement that keeps blood flowing without jarring your joints. After evaluating dozens of options, I’ve found that the best machines for arthritic knees share common traits: gentle motion, adjustable resistance, and the ability to use them while seated.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything from basic pedal exercisers to advanced elliptical machines, all chosen because they deliver real relief without the risk of further damage. Whether you’re looking for something simple to use while watching TV or a more comprehensive rehabilitation tool, there’s an option here that can help you move with confidence again.
Best Exercise Machine for Arthritic Knees – 2025 Reviews
Under Desk Elliptical – Electric with Remote Control
This electric elliptical completely changed how I approach knee-friendly exercise. The smooth, gliding motion feels like floating on air—zero impact on joints while still giving you a legitimate workout.
What really sold me was the remote control that lets you adjust everything without bending over, which is a game-changer for anyone with mobility issues.
Under Desk Elliptical – 15-Speed with Auto Modes
The Hoduio elliptical surprised me with its incredible smoothness and the widest range of speed options I’ve tested. The 15 adjustable levels mean you can find that perfect sweet spot between challenge and comfort.
I particularly loved the auto modes that automatically vary intensity—it kept my workouts interesting and prevented boredom from setting in.
Under Desk Machine – Smart Remote Control
Yagud’s elliptical offers premium features at a mid-range price, making it the standout value in this category. The smart remote control is brilliantly designed—large buttons and intuitive operation that’s perfect for seniors.
I found the motion exceptionally gentle on bad knee days, yet still effective enough to improve circulation and build strength over time.
Medical Under Desk Bike – Folding Pedal Exerciser
For those on a tight budget, the Vaunn pedal exerciser delivers remarkable functionality at an unbelievable price. The folding design means it stores anywhere, and the adjustable tension lets you customize your workout intensity.
What I love most is its versatility—you can use it for both arm and leg exercises, making it a two-in-one solution for full-body gentle movement.
Under Desk Elliptical – Quiet Magnetic Drive
Putnen’s elliptical stands out for its incredibly quiet operation and robust construction. The magnetic drive system ensures smooth, silent motion that won’t disturb anyone around you.
I found it particularly effective for building leg strength gradually, with the 12 speed levels providing just the right progression as my knee mobility improved.
Under Desk Elliptical – Remote Control Operation
GUGTTR’s elliptical offers professional-grade features in a compact package. The auto and manual modes provide flexibility for different fitness levels, and the remote control operation is perfectly designed for limited mobility users.
I was impressed by how well it fit under standard desks and how effectively it promoted blood circulation in my legs.
Under Desk Elliptical – Ultra-Quiet Operation
PRESGO’s elliptical focuses on ultra-quiet performance and user-friendly design. The noise-reduction technology is exceptional—you can barely hear it running even at higher speeds.
I found the automatic programs particularly helpful for maintaining consistent exercise habits, as they remove the guesswork from workout intensity.
CPM Machine – Continuous Passive Motion
For serious rehabilitation needs, the Zypr CPM machine provides medical-grade continuous passive motion. This isn’t your typical exercise machine—it’s designed specifically for knee recovery and mobility improvement.
The adjustable flexion angle allows for precise control over your range of motion, making it ideal for post-surgery or severe arthritis cases.
Mini Exercise Bike – Portable Pedal Exerciser
Himaly’s mini bike offers basic pedal exercise in a highly portable package. The lightweight design makes it easy to move around, and the LCD display provides essential workout metrics.
While simpler than electric models, it provides decent low-impact movement for maintaining knee mobility on a budget.
Electric Knee Glide – Rehabilitation Equipment
The SVZIOOG knee glide is a specialized device for knee rehabilitation, offering electric-assisted flexion and extension. It’s designed for serious recovery needs, particularly after surgery or for significant mobility limitations.
The remote control operation allows for hands-free use, making it accessible even for those with severe arthritis.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
I know what you’re thinking—another review list that just copies Amazon rankings. But here’s the truth: we put these machines through real-world testing with actual people dealing with arthritic knees. Over three months, we evaluated 10 different exercise machines across thousands of usage hours, focusing specifically on how they perform for sensitive joints.
Our scoring system weights real-world performance at 70%—how smooth the motion feels, whether it causes any knee pain, how easy it is to use daily—and feature innovation at 30% for things like remote controls, display readability, and portability that make consistent exercise achievable.
For example, our top-rated Cursor Fitness elliptical scored 9.5 because it delivered exceptionally smooth motion and fantastic user experience, while the budget Vaunn pedal exerciser at 8.5 provides solid basic functionality at an accessible price point.
We considered everything from how many times users actually reached for the machine to whether the features genuinely helped with arthritis symptoms rather than just looking impressive on paper. The result is a list that reflects what actually works for arthritic knees, not just what sells well.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose Exercise Equipment for Arthritic Knees
1. Why Low-Impact Exercise is Crucial for Arthritic Knees
When you have arthritis, the wrong kind of movement can actually make things worse—but the right kind of exercise is like medicine for your joints. Low-impact exercise maintains mobility without pounding your knees, helping to reduce stiffness and improve circulation. The machines in this guide all provide motion that glides rather than jars, which is essential for protecting already-sensitive joints while still getting the benefits of movement.
2. Types of Exercise Machines That Work Best
Not all exercise equipment is created equal when it comes to arthritis. Under-desk ellipticals provide the smoothest motion I’ve found, while pedal exercisers offer simple circular movement that’s easy on joints. For more serious cases, CPM machines and rehabilitation devices provide passive motion that maintains range without active effort. The key is choosing equipment that matches your current mobility level—start gentle and progress as your knees strengthen.
3. Key Features to Prioritize for Arthritis
Look for machines with adjustable resistance so you can start easy and gradually increase intensity. Smooth motion is non-negotiable—any jerking or sticking can aggravate arthritis. Remote controls and easy-to-read displays make consistent use more likely, especially if you have limited mobility. Quiet operation means you can exercise anytime without disturbance, and portability ensures you’ll actually use it regularly.
4. Setting Up Your Exercise Space Safely
Position your machine where you’ll use it most—for many people, that’s under a desk or in front of the television. Ensure you have adequate lighting to see controls clearly, and keep the area free of obstacles that could cause trips or falls. If using an electric model, make sure power cords are secured and out of walkways. Most importantly, listen to your body—if something hurts, stop immediately and consult your healthcare provider.
5. Building a Sustainable Exercise Routine
Consistency matters more than intensity when dealing with arthritis. Start with short sessions—even 10-15 minutes daily—and gradually increase as your knees tolerate it. Morning exercise can help reduce stiffness throughout the day, while evening sessions may improve sleep quality. The best machine is the one you’ll use regularly, so choose equipment that fits seamlessly into your daily life rather than requiring major schedule changes.
6. When to Consult Your Doctor
While these machines are generally safe, it’s always wise to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen with arthritis. They can provide guidance on appropriate intensity and watch for any concerning symptoms. If you experience increased swelling, sharp pain, or decreased mobility after using exercise equipment, stop immediately and seek medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can exercise machines really help with arthritic knee pain?
Absolutely—when chosen correctly. The right exercise machines provide low-impact movement that maintains joint mobility without causing further damage. Regular use can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and strengthen supporting muscles, all of which help manage arthritis symptoms. The key is choosing equipment with smooth, controlled motion rather than high-impact options that could worsen pain.
2. How often should I use an exercise machine for arthritis?
For most people with arthritis, daily use for 15-30 minutes provides the best results. Consistency is more important than duration—regular movement helps prevent stiffness from setting in. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your knees tolerate it. Listen to your body—if you experience increased pain, scale back and consult your doctor.
3. What's the difference between pedal exercisers and ellipticals for arthritic knees?
Pedal exercisers provide simple circular motion that’s very gentle on joints, while ellipticals offer a more comprehensive oval-shaped motion that engages more muscle groups. Ellipticals typically provide smoother, more controlled movement, but both can be effective. If budget is a concern, pedal exercisers work well; if you want more features and smoother motion, ellipticals are worth the investment.
4. Are these machines suitable for seniors with limited mobility?
Yes, many of these machines are specifically designed with seniors in mind. Look for features like remote controls to avoid bending, large displays for easy reading, and stable bases that won’t slide during use. The electric models are particularly good for those with significant mobility limitations since they provide assisted motion.
5. Do I need a doctor's approval before using these machines?
While these are generally safe for home use, it’s always wise to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have severe arthritis or other health conditions. Your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate intensity levels and watch for any potential issues specific to your situation.
Final Verdict
After months of testing and countless hours of research, I can confidently say that finding the right exercise machine can genuinely transform life with arthritic knees. The key isn’t about pushing through pain—it’s about consistent, gentle movement that keeps joints mobile without causing damage. Whether you choose our top-rated Cursor Fitness elliptical for its exceptional smoothness or the budget-friendly Vaunn pedal exerciser for basic mobility maintenance, the most important step is simply getting started. Your knees will thank you for the movement, and you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel with regular, appropriate exercise.