When it comes to in-home fitness, new machines are being introduced at break-neck speed. With new fitness innovations like the MaxTrainer from Bowflex and the ProForm HIIT Trainers, you can believe that Horizon wasn’t going to be left in the dust.
They built on the idea of a single machine combining the benefits of an elliptical and a stair-stepper into one HIIT workout beast. Meet the new Horizon Peak Trainer HT5.0.
According to Horizon, using the machine for 20-minute HIIT workouts will burn more calories, build lean muscle and have you in your best shape ever. To be more specific, Horizon claims when used with their Sprint-8 HIIT programming, the Peak Trainer can trim body fat by up to 27% and significantly reduce bad cholesterol in eight weeks.
The Horizon Peak Trainer has been discontinued.
Shop Available Equipment at HorizonFitness.com
As with all claims on workout equipment, it is worth noting the “individual results may vary” disclaimer. If you aren’t adopting a healthy lifestyle to go along with your healthy workout routine, you probably aren’t going to look like the people in the promo video.
So let’s look at what this machine has to offer:
It is always exciting to see new at-home exercise equipment hit the market. The ability to better yourself from the comfort of home is great, and having options outside of a treadmill and/or elliptical opens up new opportunities.
Recently we have seen multiple companies introduce hybrid-style machines that pack more punch into a smaller package. Not one to be left behind, we now have the Peak Trainer HT5.0 from Horizon. Similar to the Bowflex MaxTrainer and the ProForm HIIT Trainers, the Peak Trainer combines the benefits of an elliptical and a stair-stepper into a single HIIT training machine.
As with all of these new, more-intense machines, it comes with claims of how much fat it’s going to burn in a short period of time. Horizon claims that by using the Peak Trainer for just 20 minutes a day, three times a week, you will cut your body fat by 27% in eight weeks.
While we know the fat burning benefits of HIIT workouts, these are incredibly specific numbers and it’s probably safe to say that there may be a little more involved in reaching them. That’s most likely why the claim is accompanied by a disclaimer that “individual results will vary”. Always remember that your fitness is a multi-faceted system that includes not only exercise, but healthy eating and lifestyle choices.
All of that being said, there are certainly some very tempting benefits that go with the Peak Trainer.
First and foremost, you get a truly full-body workout that is low impact on your joints. The exclusive suspension system delivers a smooth ride that reduces wear and tear on your body. You can also use the moving hand holds to engage your arms and core at the same time as your legs.
You will also get the Horizon Sprint 8 programming only on with the Peak Trainer HT5.0. It’s not offered on machines from Bowflex and ProForm. Sprint 8 is specifically designed to deliver HIIT workouts that will get your muscles firing and blood pumping in just 20 minutes. This program is only available on the Peak Trainer HT5.0.
If you live in a smaller space, or don’t like your exercise equipment taking up valuable floor space, the Peak Trainer may be just what you’re looking for. With a footprint of just 47” x 28” the Peak Trainer is much smaller than an elliptical or treadmill in terms of floor space.
Unlike most in-home equipment, the Peak Trainer does not come with a fancy touchscreen display. It does have a tablet rack if you want to watch Netflix, but since this machine is built for faster, more intense workouts, you probably won’t be needing much extra entertainment.
Overall, the Peak Trainer embodies everything that we have come to expect from this new generation of in-home exercise equipment. It works your whole body harder, gets your faster results and takes less time out of your day.
One area where the Peak Trainer is leaps and bounds ahead of the others we mentioned is price. The Peak Trainer is going to cost you about $899, which is up to $500 less than the ProForm machines’ regular price, and a whopping $1700 less than some of the Bowflex MaxTrainers.
With that in mind, if you are looking to turn up the intensity on your fitness game, the Horizon Peak Trainer should be the first place you look. Learn more and see if it’s right for you.
To learn more, check out HorizonFitness.com.
The top fitness equipment brands are rolling out some exciting new models and new elliptical updates to take your fitness to the next level. At times, these new options can be a bit overwhelming, so we have put together this guide to all of the best new options on the market. Use this article to find the perfect elliptical to help you hit your fitness goals this season!
This model is The 7.0 AE Elliptical from Horizon is an exciting option for those looking for both technology and performance with a price tag under $1000. The 7.0 AE provides the quality and comfort we have come to expect from Horizon products in a solid, built to last package.
The technology features on the 7.0 AE may not be the most extensive on the market, but the 7” LCD touchscreen is nothing to shake a stick at. The Advanced Bluetooth allows the 7.0 AE to sync with multiple devices on the speakers and the integrated tablet rack puts your entertainment right where you want it. All in all, the Horizon 7.0 AE offers durability, performance and an impressive array of features at a price you can’t beat.
The Horizon 7.0 AE is available for $999, or pay as low as $28/month with financing. Free shipping.
Shop Now at HorizonFitness.com
Ergonomic Design & Engineering – Horizon conducted research on elliptical trainer users to better understand what mechanical features they found most appealing. From that research they came up with their “SixStar Frame”, which is comprised of six design features that create a very natural and comfortable workout. We can’t emphasize enough the importance of proper ergonomic features in reducing aches and pains from exercise. The SixStar features are…
23 lb. Flywheel – While we already mentioned this as part of the “SixStar Frame’, this is a substantially heavier flywheel than other treadmills in this price range. This places the 7.0 AE a step above its competitors for smooth, steady use.
20” Stride Length – A 20” stride length is something that we expect to see in ellipticals over the $1000 mark, so it’s a nice surprise to find this feature on the 7.0 AE. This stride length makes the 7.0 AE comfortable for most users, regardless of height.
20 incline levels – Another great upgrade on the 7.0 AE is the incline feature. This is something that we don’t always see on other Horizon ellipticals. The incline feature allows users of all ability levels to get a wider variety of great workouts. This also allows you to focus on various muscle groups to tone and strengthen specific areas.
20 levels of magnetic resistance – This feature is a step-up from the Horizon entry-level model. The resistance feature is another way to ensure that your workouts are varied and allows you to work a greater range of muscle groups.
194 lb. Unit Weight – Weighing in at 194 lbs. the 7.0 AE isn’t messing around, weighing more than some of the more expensive premium models. This means that not only are you guaranteed a wobble-free workout, the 7.0 AE can accommodate users up to 325 lbs.
7” LCD Touchscreen – This may not boast the 10” screens that we are seeing on a lot of newer models, but it’s still a definite step up from the LED displays on many models in this price range.
Advanced Bluetooth – This technology allows to you connect to multiple devices and stream media to the integrated speakers on the 7.0 AE. Plus, the free no-subscription app lets you push workout data to your favorite fitness apps and control your workout from your device. You can also be sure that you’ll never lose your tunes or entertainment during your workout with the fast-charge USB port.
6 Workout Programs – No matter what you are looking for from your workout, the 7.0 AE has a program suited to you.
Warranty – Lifetime frame & brakes, 3 year parts, 1 year generator & labor.
See a complete comparison chart of Horizon Ellipticals here.
Our Review – Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical Review
The 7.0 AE maintains the high levels of quality, ease of use and performance that we have come to expect from Horizon products. Looking at the specs and features on the 7.0 AE one would very much expect to find a much higher price tag. In fact, the 7.0 AE offers many of the features that we see on the Evolve series machines, but the 7.0 AE is going to cost several hundred dollars less. Horizon has really stepped up to the plate with the 7.0 AE in terms of performance and features.
The incline is an awesome addition that we don’t often see on Horizon models. This allows you to better tailor your sessions and work a larger range of muscle groups. The 23 lb. flywheel ensures that you get smooth use every time you step onto your machine. In addition, the heavy weight of that machine itself means that you will always feel solid and steady on your machine.
The 7.0 AE is also a great option for larger users, as it can accommodate a weight of up to 325 lbs. Tall users need not fear either, the 20” stride length means the 7.0 AE is comfortable for you too.
The technology features on the 7.0 AE may not be the most extensive on the market, but the 7” LCD touchscreen is nothing to shake a stick at. The Advanced Bluetooth allows the 7.0 AE to sync with multiple devices on the speakers and the integrated tablet rack puts your entertainment right where you want it. All in all, the Horizon 7.0 AE offers durability, performance and an impressive array of features at a price you can’t beat.
If you’re looking for a lower priced model, you may want to check out the Horizon EX-59.
To learn more, check out HorizonFitness.com.
To learn more about the pros and cons of this brand, check out our full profile of Horizon.
Models & Links to Reviews | 7.0 AE | EX-59 |
(Swipe RIGHT on your mobile device.) | ||
Rating | ||
Price | $999 | $699 |
Drive System | Front | Front |
Incline | 0-15, 0-100% | n/a |
Stride | 20″ | 18″ |
Flywheel | 23 lb | 14.3 lb |
Programs | 6 | 10 |
Display | 16 digit LED, 7″ LCD | 4.5” Yellow-Green LCD, Tablet Rack |
Resistance Levels | 20 Electronically Adjustable | 10 Electronically Adjustable |
Suggested Weight Limit | 325 lb | 300 lb |
Heart Rate Control | Grip Pulse + BT 4.0 Ready | Contact Grips |
Warranty | Lifetime Frame & Brakes, 3 yr Parts, 1 yr Labor & Generator | Lifetime Frame, 1 yr Parts, 1 yr Labor, 1 yr Brakes |
Folding | No | No |
Step On Height | 10″ | 10″ |
Technology | Six Star Frame | Six Star Frame |
Speakers | Yes | Yes |
Fan | Yes | No |
Horizon Fitness released four new elliptical trainers. Most we feel are a hit, but we are not crazy about the Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 elliptical trainer. We do like some of the ergonomic features and the interactive options. However, we feel for what you get, it is a bit pricey.
This machine comes from the same company that produces Vision Fitness and Matrix Fitness. Let’s review the pros and cons of the Horizon Evolve 5. (By the way – you may be interested in checking out the Horizon Evolve 3 too.)
The Horizon Evolve 5 has been discontinued. We suggest considering the Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical.
Ergonomic Design with Simple Assembly — Horizon did extensive research on what appeals to potential elliptical trainer customers and came up with their SixStar Certification. This includes:
23 Lbs. Flywheel — The heavy flywheel give a very natural elliptical motion. It is apparent when you start and stop. It takes an effort to get the motion moving and it gradually slows down.
Folding Mechanism — You can fold the Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 elliptical so that it takes up only 28” in length. If space is a premium, this is an excellent feature.
ViaFit — Many manufacturers are moving towards a more interactive workout with their elliptical trainer. The Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 is equipped with ViaFit, which allows you to track your stats and progress online. In addition, with the ViaFit app you can define fitness goals like number of workouts, calories burned, amount of time exercising or total distance and track your progress towards those goals.
Studies have shown that those individuals that track their progress are more likely to achieve their fitness goals. And in fact, tracking software, particularly on smartphones is becoming very popular. It kind of gives you a guilt trip if you are slacking. One last feature, which I feel rocks, is that ViaFit allows you to import statistics from other popular fitness, nutrition and weight loss apps, so you have a central locations for storing and viewing your health stats. What makes this feature most attractive is that there is no extra charge.
Passport — For an additional cost you can get the hardware and software to simulate and visualize running outdoors. Your Horizon Evolve 5 elliptical trainer can connect to your TV and provide high-definition destination footage displayed on your large screen which is synced to the speed and intensity of your workout. There is a library of walking and running experiences through famous landscapes like National Parks and seashores.
37 Installed Workout Programs — The Evolve 5 has a wide selection of challenging workouts that include 1 manual, 13 distance, 9 calories, 3 intervals, 4 performance, 10 step and 2 custom.
See a complete comparison chart of Horizon Ellipticals here.
Single Rail Per Pedal — In the past the single rail design on Horizon Fitness elliptical trainers was a major flaw. Often the floor models we would test would have the pedals fall off the railing. Of course, the floor models go through major abuse. The current design is a major improvement and under normal use should maintain a high degree of stability. However, for a couple of hundred dollars less you can get the Sole E35 with a dual rail system.
We also have a concern about the folding mechanism and how that impacts the long-term stability of the elliptical motion.
Warranty — The Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 comes with a 3-years parts and 1-year labor warranty. The majority of elliptical trainers at this price range have a 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty.
Machine Weight — The Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 elliptical weighs 181 lbs., which will provide a very stable feel for most users. You will find other models in this price to be heavier. For example, the Sole E35 weighs 215 lbs., and it is rock solid.
Maybe because it is Monday we are being picky. Overall, the Horizon Evolve 5 has pros that significantly outweigh the cons and overall it is a good value.
However, you may want to compare it to NordicTrack or Sole ellipticals in this price range. The NordicTrack models will have more impressive interactive features. (There is an additional cost for the features by the way). The Sole ellipticals appear to be more durable (though they lack interactive features). We feel the Horizon Elite E9 and E7 models are a better buy.
The Most Ergonomic Elliptical Trainers on the Market
Nowadays, most of us try to get into a healthy lifestyle by following a proper eating and exercise routine. So naturally, purchasing fitness equipment has become one of the necessities in almost every household to keep people’s health on the right track.
However, there are very few fitness machine manufacturers that you can rely on for their product quality. Horizon Fitness Ellipticals are among the best picks in terms of quality. We went to visit Horizon Fitness’ North American headquarters recently, which is operated and managed by Johnson Health. Vision Fitness and Matrix Fitness are both owned by the same parent company.
The amenities present in the Horizon head office were remarkable. The office has a large gym where employees can test out the machines they design and market. Who does not know the importance of product testing before it makes its way to the market? Horizons fitness machine manufacturer has set up this gym to try out their products’ efficiency before they sell them on the market. Everyone seems to like trying out the Horizon Fitness ellipticals.
Horizon Fitness adopted a fresh approach to creating the latest iteration of Horizon ellipticals. This involves questioning and communicating with their existing users and potential customers to learn about their top objectives when shopping for an elliptical.
This revolutionary approach has served the company in so many ways to understand the business and fitness equipment markets so well. They built the basis of their Horizon ellipticals with the SIX STAR Certification as a result of these meetings. It was undoubtedly a ground-breaking feature for their product.
Horizon Fitness ellipticals have a number of biomechanical elements that make them seem natural and easy to use.
*Horizon EX-59 Elliptical — ON SALE!! Priced at just $499. This is the lowest we have ever seen this elliptical priced. Act now.
Horizon 7.0AE Elliptical — $999
*Best Buy Recommendation
(See a complete comparison chart of all Horizon Ellipticals here.)
Shop now at www.HorizonFitness.com
They Manufacture Their Own Components
When it comes to the manufacturing of any equipment, the making of parts of the machine and their sturdiness become crucial to determining the product’s durability. There are very few companies that have the capacity to manufacture the equipment components on their own. They purchase most of the equipment components from third-party companies. So, it becomes tricky to pursue the warranty plan if any of those imported components are not working.
Concerning fitness equipment manufacturers, the same issue prevails here as well. However, Horizon Fitness builds its ellipticals with all its self-produced equipment parts rather than purchasing them from other parties. This setup is known as vertical integration, and it is super beneficial for the product owner in the event of any machine malfunctioning. Added to that, vertical integration helps the machine retain its sturdiness better and also requires less maintenance.
Excellent Customer Service
During our last visit, we were able to observe the call center. They have equipment set up for customer service employees to look at conceptual frameworks while on the phone with consumers. We were glad to discover a well-stocked call center with several competent agents ready to receive income calls, as customer service is an area where many businesses suffer.
To deal with clients, any organization needs well-versed staff and seasoned employees. Customer service is the term for this system. Without customer assistance, no corporation can be considered a viable entity. Customers are so much like God to corporations. It is critical to provide them with decent and professional service as needed when running a firm. Horizon Fitness has scaled up its business by incorporating decent customer service that works day and night to provide its customers with the best solutions.
Strong Company Culture
Good communication within the office zone is considered to be formed in a positive organizational culture. When an atmosphere of good communication prevails, employees can develop ways of understanding with others, including the board of directors. They can freely express their new ideas and creative thinking. This open company culture aids in the development of trust among staff and customers.
This trustworthiness, as well as the plethora of unique ideas provided by various personnel, aids the organization in determining the best road to ascend. A poorly structured organizational culture, on the other hand, fails to build an effective communion culture. There is a lack of originality and inventiveness in ideas when there is no unrestricted interaction amongst employees.
Keeping these crucial factors in mind, the management of Horizon Fitness has developed a strong and positive company culture within the office and business. It is quite an undeniable fact that when a company chooses to care for its employees on purpose to help the company grow, it is definitely going to care for its customers even more.
The company’s atmosphere that fosters the health and well-being of its employees impressed us. We can provide two examples to help you better understand. The firm has a staff fitness center and organizes company-wide yoga and fitness sessions in the front yard.
Horizon EX-59 Elliptical — $699 (Best Buy Recommendation)
This is one of the better budget elliptical trainers. It has a 4.5″ Yellow-Green LCD Display, 18″ stride, and 10 levels of magnetic resistance.Horizon 7.0AE Elliptical – $999
23 lb. flywheel, 20″ stride, 20 incline levels, 7″ LCD touchscreen
Passport — Passport lets you simulate running or walking famous landscapes throughout the world. Your Horizon Fitness elliptical trainer can connect to your TV and provides high-definition videos on your television. The videos are synced with speed and intensity of your workout. This feature is designed to take the monotony out of exercising in place. There is an additional cost for the Passport box.
Exclusive App Discounts — Horizon offers something pretty special to their customers known as the Digital Pass. After purchasing an elliptical from Horizon, consumers can enjoy some pretty big savings on top fitness apps that work with your machine like Peleton, Daily Burn, and Studio.
Exercising with the help of equipment delivers the maximum result to help you pursue your fitness goals. However, faulty or not-so-ergonomic equipment makes your exercise regimen a bit bizarre by causing bodily injury and pain. So, it becomes tricky to stick to your fitness goal for a long time with an injured physical state.
In the case of poorly built ellipticals, you can experience hip and back pressure that is not at all healthy. It can lead to hip and back injuries. It generally happens when the padel placement of the ellipticals is poorly done. Horizon ellipticals are well-designed and optimally engineered with an optimal pedal placement initiative. To relieve stress and tension on the hips and back, the pedals are arranged with no space between them. This attribute makes the machine ideal for women to use for exercising due to its unique physique.
Ergonomic design planning is important for any kind of fitness machine. This is even more crucial for ellipticals, as the whole body of a user gets in motion while exercising. So, every component of this fitness machine requires special attention to ensure that ergonomic demands are met properly.
If the handlebar spacing is not correct, a user may experience pain after a vigorous session of exercise. The handlebar spacing needs to be optimal to suit both short and tall people. If a tall person gets to exercise with minimal handlebar spacing, it will exert pressure on his or her hands and shoulders, which will lead to muscle soreness.
On the other hand, if a short user has to deal with a wide handlebar space, he or she will not even get to use the handlebars. So, the result of the exercise will not be fruitful. Keeping these crucial factors in mind, Horizon Fitness has come up with an optimal handlebar spacing idea to provide optimal grips within reach and distance to the users.
When we are exercising on an elliptical, we tend to lean forward, and that keeps us from using the handlebars properly. This also aids in post-workout back pain in users. Once the pain starts to bother you, you start to skip the exercise regimen daily, and your fitness goal plan does not succeed. So, using properly planned and ergonomically designed fitness equipment is as important as your exercise routine.
The ergonomic design on Horizon ellipticals improves comfort by keeping your body upright. We have discovered that when we use a front-drive elliptical, we invariably bend forward to reach the handlebars. That is why we frequently skip the bars and instead imitate running.
Optimal stride length is critical for ensuring not only progress is in your fitness journey, but also maximum physical safety. The only factor that can accurately determine an individual’s ideal stride length is his or her height.
Horizon ellipticals have long and natural strides. They help to minimize user fatigue by mimicking a natural and organic movement motion.
Pedals placed low to the ground are easier to step on and off.
The large drive pulley ratio creates a smoother and more efficient motion.
The new generation of SIXSTAR Certification Horizon ellipticals are a vast improvement over their previous generation of crosstrainers. The new elliptical machines appear more stable, durable and provide a more natural elliptical stride.
Our team has its own opinion stating the pros and cons of using the Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Trainer. However, it is also important to know about customers’ reviews of the same product. Customer feedback is even more vital to know because they use the products for several days and then review them. This helps us to understand the product’s potential from a practical perspective.
The EX-59 garnered overwhelmingly good reviews on Amazon.
“As if you were running on air.”
In addition, a well-known consumer journal gave the Horizon EX-59 elliptical trainer high marks. For ergonomics, usability, workout range, the convenience of use, and craftsmanship, they gave it a “Very Good” assessment.
The Horizon Fitness EX-59 is one of your finest options if your budget is about $700.
The 7.0 AE delivers the same high standards of performance and quality, the convenience of use, and the low-maintenance that we have grown to expect from the manufacturer, Horizon. Looking at the specifications and functionalities of the 7.0 AE, one would predict a significantly higher price. The 7.0 AE elliptical boasts features like:
Overall, Horizon Fitness has made some significant improvements to their line-up in the last few years, and offers some of the best values in their price range. See a complete comparison chart of all Horizon Ellipticals here.
Go to Horizon Fitness to learn more!
With the pandemic still on the forefront of all of our lives, and with all the changes to the fitness industry, your daily workouts probably look very different from what they were a year ago.
There are benefits – you don’t have to commute to the gym, you can play your music as loud as you want in your living room, and you can avoid the smelly Steve at your local gym.
But you probably miss having more than one barbell to choose from, and you probably miss your favorite exercise machines too.
Since it seems like the virus isn’t going away any time soon, it’s probably time to take your home gym to the next level. With New Year’s approaching, soon you’ll have a chance to make New Year’s resolutions, new fitness goals, and change your workout routine.
And to make all of that happen, you need new fitness equipment. With Black Friday approaching, now is the time to buy exercise equipment. Continue reading
Many of us listen to music when we work out…and for good reason! Music is a great way to boost your body and mind so you can get the most out of your exercise session.
The main reason music is so helpful has to do with something called “preferred tempo.” The preferred tempo for different activities or moods is based on what your body needs at that moment. Whether you are looking to stimulate movement or promote relaxation, the tempo of the music you listen to can have a huge effect on how your body and mind function.
Don’t believe us? Keep reading to discover the best reasons to get your playlist ready the next time you’re lacing up your sneakers.
Continue readingNew Shorter Exercise Recommendations
We hear it all the time – “Get up and get moving!”
Unfortunately, many of us are not moving near as much as we should in an effort to maintain our fitness.
Whether you are already moving and shaking on your fitness journey…or just setting out on the path to your best you…there are recommendations to help guide you along the way.
The government recently released new physical activity recommendations, so there are some updated guidelines to follow to keep your journey on track. Keep reading to find out how much you need to be getting up and moving, and just how to go about making it happen.
Continue readingWhat if a simple fitness test could give you a glimpse into your future health outlook?
We are constantly being bombarded with information about what we need to do to stay healthy and how much we need to do it. But even if you do all of the things, the question remains … how do you know if you’re actually in good enough physical shape for the long haul?
Read below for a simple test that can help you unlock this vital knowledge.
Continue reading