Does a ski erg only train the upper body?

No. The workout involves most of the muscles in the upper body, but you will also feel it in your legs, glutes and hip flexors. It is still a good option if you want cardio training without putting too much strain on your legs.

How much ceiling height does a ski erg need?

The height is often around 215–220 cm, and heights under 230 cm are common. As long as your ceiling is over 220 cm it should not be a problem, but check the dimensions carefully if you have low ceilings.

All ski ergs with air resistance make noise, and the harder you pull, the louder the sound. Machines with both air and magnetic resistance can be a bit noisier at high pulls, so consider training in a gym, garage or basement rather than the living room.

Do the machines require a power outlet?

Most of the models in the list run on battery-operated consoles and need no power. The ASG SkiErgometer is the exception, as its electronically controlled resistance adjustment requires power.

Top List of Ski Ergs – Best in Test Ski Ergs 2026! | Hardworkout Magazine

Key takeaways

- A ski erg replicates the double-poling motion from cross-country skiing and trains the upper body hard while sparing the legs from impact.

- Most ski ergs use air resistance, which adjusts steplessly with pulling force; combined air and magnetic models such as the Toorx SKX Airmag 7000 and the ASG SkiErgometer offer 16 resistance levels.

- Ski ergs are typically 210–220 cm tall, so a ceiling height above 220 cm is enough for standard rooms.

- The machines in this list have not been physically tested; the ranking is based on specifications, external tests, customer feedback and price.

We provide you with an overview of some of the best ski machines on the market in 2026! If you are looking for a ski machine/ skierg, you will definitely find one that meets your needs.

Who is a ski erg for?

Whether you are an active skier or looking for cardiovascular training that is less strenuous on the legs, training with a ski machine is an effective form of exercise for both upper body strength and cardiovascular fitness.

A ski machine can be mounted on the wall, making it very space-saving. If you want the option to move it around, you can choose a model that can be mounted on a sturdy platform with transport wheels.

How do we rank the ski ergs?

We at Hardworkout.no are committed to ensuring that the tests are independent and credible. By shopping through the links in the test, you contribute to our ability to continue publishing quality-conscious tests and articles, and we greatly appreciate it if you do this.

The products in this list have not been physically tested by us, and the assessment is based on the product's features, external tests, customer feedback, and price. All products in the test are of good quality and in various price ranges.

PS: Prices and selection may vary from day to day. The prices we provide are recommended prices. Online stores often have good offers, and the products may be on sale at a lower price than what is stated here!

We always strive to keep the list updated with products that are in stock. Where there are multiple alternative prices, we link to several stores.

- Best in Test – [Abilica XC-Classic 2000](https://hardworkout.no/abilica-xc-classic2000)

- Best Premium Choice – [Concept 2 SkiErge](https://hardworkout.no/concept2-skierg)

What is a ski ergometer?

A ski ergometer, or a skierg, is a cardio machine that provides the same training experience as when you are double poling on a ski trip.

Which muscles does a ski erg actually work?

The workout involves most of the muscles in the upper body, but you will also feel it in your legs, glutes, and hip flexors.

If you want to train your cardio without putting too much strain on your legs, a ski ergometer is the perfect training tool.

Training with a ski ergometer is widely used by skiers, as it allows for maintaining double poling training indoors during the summer months.

It is also a commonly used training machine in crossfit and other functional training, as it provides very effective cardio training and strength training for the upper body.

Solid handles and cables are attached to the ski ergometer, and the upper body and arms move in the same pattern as when double poling on skis.

Training on a ski ergometer is suitable for both high-intensity interval training and low-zone training for longer distances. It can be trained with both double poling and diagonal techniques, just like in ski training.

Criteria for Testing Ski Ergometers

The products in this list have not been physically tested by us, and the assessment is based on the product's features, external tests, customer feedback, and price.

All products in the test are of good quality and in various price ranges.

Resistance (10)

We have assessed how many resistance levels the machine offers and how smooth and responsive the resistance feels based on the specifications.

Machines with combined air and magnetic resistance provide more customization options and more varied loads.

Higher scores go to models with good adjustment options and realistic skiing technique.

Ease of Use (10)

A ski ergometer should be easy to use, adjust, and get started with.

We have looked at how easy it is to understand the display, switch between programs, and adjust resistance.

The machine with easy startup and clear functionality scores the highest.

Training Programs/Features (10)

Some models only have manual resistance, while others provide you with pre-set interval workouts, competition mode, or app integration.

We have assessed how much variation you get and how easy it is to track your own progress. The more relevant features, the better the rating.

Stability/ Build Quality (15)

A ski ergometer must withstand heavy use over time.

Here we have looked at material choice, maximum user weight, vibration damping, and how solid the machine stands during use.

Robust machines with high total weight and stable platforms score the best.

Noise Level (10)

Noise from air resistance is normal, but some machines are quieter than others – especially if cables and construction are optimized.

We do not consider the machines to be noise-free, but give bonus points to those known for less hissing and rubbing at high intensity.

Space Requirements and Storage (10)

Ski ergs take up space, but some models are easier to place than others – especially if they are narrow and have transport wheels.

The height is often over 210 cm, but with normal ceiling height, it works just fine.

Machines that can be wall-mounted or easily moved receive a higher score.

Screen/ Data (10)

Here we assess how clear and comprehensive the screen is, and what training data is displayed.

Simple LCD screens can work well if they show heart rate, watts, pace, and distance.

Models with clear screen layouts and training history score the highest.

Comfort/ Adjustment Options (10)

A good grip and a natural pulling motion make all the difference.

Here we look at handles, cable routing, adjustability, and how the machine adapts to different users.

Ergonomic solutions and smooth return motion are highlighted.

Value for Money (10)

What do you get for your money? We assess the whole: resistance system, features, stability, and additional equipment.