Hi Echo, have you considered walking? It's easy, cheap, and low impact. You can vary the speed, distance and duration easily to suit yourself. The fresh air is good for you and it's great for burning fat. If walking is not enough, you can combine this with a basic free weight workout.

The problem I have with machines is they make your body adjust to them, which in some cases may go against your natural movements. What I mean is a machine has fixed points of movement. A shorter person will have a different workout than a taller one.

Also, I think it's an excellent idea to try out a machine before you buy it to make sure you like it and it fits you well. And don't be fooled by the glamourous and fit people in the commercials advertising these machines, they probably just came from the gym and most likely a workout using free weights.

And remember machines will not do the work for you, your dedication and consistency in whatever program you choose is the key.