What to look for in an elliptical trainer

S

subdude

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I am looking to buy an elliptical trainer soon as a way to burn calories and keep my heart in good shape until the days get longer and the ice and snow goes away so I can go running outside again. Budget is definitely a huge concern although I am willing to pay a bit more if a certain feature or model is worth it.

Feel free to mention certain brands and models. However, I would appreciate your explanation of why a certain brand/model is better than another. Mostly, I'm interested in knowing what specifically makes a certain elliptical trainer worth the money and what makes another one (whether cheaper or pricier) not worth the money.

For instance, what stride should I go for? Is 20 inches just right? BTW, I am about 6 feet tall and wear pants with about a 32 inch inseam. My wife, who might use it too, is a few inches shorter but has legs that are nearly as long as mine.

Also, which is better: front or rear wheel? Are there advantages to each?

What other features should I look for?

I'm not too concerned about electronic features, such as MP3 playing and really in depth programming options, especially if I can get a simpler unit for much less money. Mostly, I just want a good workout and nothing more.

Thanks.
 
i hear rear drive is better at keeping the heels plants. Front-drive tends to pull the user forward which does not help with proper posture.

I also wouldn't be concerned abut electronic features. most companies will focus too much on features and end up losing out on the total quality of the machine.
 
I really like the precor and octane units, but admit that these are what I have the most experience with.

I agree with you about the electronics. Who needs all those programs? Just crank up the resistance and pound away. If you want a polar heart monitor though, it's kind of like buying a car...you often must get the luxury package to get the one option you like.
 
My view on what to look for when buying an elliptical trainer

To answer your questions:

Front or Rear - most gym quality machines have a rear flywheel, but products such as the Vision Fitness feel good with a front wheel and have the added bonus of being able to fold up

What stride length - I would say as long as possible. But you can get machines (Sports Art, Life Fitness) that have an adjustable stride length.

Best advice: try them out in a specialist store, kick the tyres, make sure it's right for you.

Hope that helps,
Elliot
:)
ps - see below for extra info...


What to look for when buying an elliptical:

• Make sure it is a sturdily built crosstrainer.
• Offer a suitable stride length for all users
• Provide a smooth and quiet motion
• Allows you to vary your workout by adjusting resistance.
• Offers a selection of motivating programmed courses.
• Handgrips in front or along the sides so you can hold on for extra balance.
• Accompanied with a good warranty and service contract.

What kind of crosstrainer should you buy?

Your budget will largely determine which machine you will purchase. Crosstrainers are the most popular cardiovascular machine and vary considerably in price, quality, durability and the choice of console features. You should choose the one you feel most comfortable on and are likely to use most often.

What features should I look for?

To vary your workout and challenge yourself, the crostrainer should have a way to adjust resistance (either electronically or manually). An even better feature to look for is an elevated incline to work different muscle groups however this is only available on the Precor EFX range. This can be adjusted manually by the user or it can be motorised and adjusted on the console or by the computer. Also make sure the pedals have a good non-slip design. This is important since you don’t want your feet to slide off while trying to maintain a consistent pace during your workout. Look at the display, you may have a preference as to what is shown on the console. Most models will at least show speed, distance, resistance, watts and workout time. Also look for calories burned, degree of incline (if available), and heart rate (if available).

How much space do you have?

Different models have different sized footprints, so be sure and measure the area you plan to place it in. This will ensure that the model you want will fit. There are a wide range of both folding and fixed models. The most popular folding crosstrainer is the Vision X6200HRT whereas the most popular fixed crosstrainer is the LifeFitness X3 advanced.

I've posted more info on my website:
 
Cybex Home Arc Trainer

The Total Body Home Arc Trainer designed specially for the home - where it is not going to be used 24/7 but where a wide variety of programs, resistance, and intensity is just as important as it is in the gym. The same unique Arc pattern of motion and Same Side Forward (SSF) technology that won "Product of the Year" for the Arc Trainer commercial model is available in the Home Arc Trainer.

I think it packs a punch by combining elements of a climber, cross-trainer & cross-country skiing. Front wheels for easy rolling, Wide range of resistance and adjustable incline.
 
I would not buy a NOrdic Track Elliptical. My husband bought one in 2016. Within weeks of purchase, it began to fail. I had purchased an extended in house repair warranty, and they did not want to come fix it. After a prolonged argument, they finally sent the parts with promises to fix it. The repair man came three times to work on it, replacing bearings, etc. every time. It never got fixed. They refunded my extended warranty but never refunded my money. I do not think the company is honorable. It was well within our warranty period, and despite several phone calls to them from my husband, they never would refund our money. What good is a guarantee if they do not stand behind it? I would not recommend the Nordic Track Elliptical for this reason. Buy some other kind.
 
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