Getting the right elliptical for your body and budget!

Search Results for: proform hybrid trainer



Bowflex Challenged, Horizon Answered!

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:

Features on the Horizon Peak Trainer HT5.0

  • Less Wear and Tear for Your Body – The Peak Trainer offers a tough workout that is also low impact to save your joints. This cuts down on the potential for injury and is great for those that may already suffered a set-back. This is accomplished by using Horizon’s exclusive suspension design which delivers a smooth use no matter how much you challenge yourself.
  • Less Wear and Tear on the Machine –  Horizon utilizes design elements to reduce wear and tear on the machine as well. By eliminating tracks and wheels, there is less friction and noise created during use. This results in less wear on the machine so you can take advantage of its benefits for longer.
  • Full Body Workout – The elliptical / stair-stepper motion that you get with the Peak Trainer HT5.0 is certainly going to get you a lower body workout, but the benefits extend above the waist. There are two places for you to hold on with your hands, one of them is stationary and the other moves back and forth in tandem with your legs. When you are also have to push and pull with your arms, you are having to stabilize yourself by engaging your core. These coordinated motions mean you are getting a full-body workout all at once, which does save you time in the long run.
  • Horizon Sprint 8 – Sprint 8 is the pre-programmed high-intensity interval training that comes on the Peak Trainer HT5.0. Each workout done using Sprint 8 is 20 minutes and Horizon claims you will see results if you do them three times a week. HIIT workouts are shown to help burn more fat and build muscle in a shorter period of time, so these claims do have some scientific backing behind them.
  • Pre-programmed Workouts – Using Sprint 8 isn’t your only option for a routine when you hop on the Peak Trainer. You will also find some of the traditional programs that come on most any in-home equipment. Try out Calorie Burn, Weight Loss or Distance. And, of course, you have the manual option to just design your own workout.
  • Compact Design – The slim and trim design on the Peak Trainer is ideal if you live in a smaller space or just don’t want to have a huge piece of exercise equipment taking up space in your home. The Peak Trainer is smaller than a treadmill or an elliptical, measuring in at just 47” x 28” of floor space.
  • Max User Weight – With a max weight recommendation of 300 lbs, this machine may be small, but its heavy duty construction means it can accommodate most users.
  • Stride Length – Like a stair-stepper, when we talk about stride length on the Peak Trainer we are talking about vertical stride. Unlike an elliptical that simulates a forward and back motion, the Peak Trainer is all up and down, a full 12” of up and down. This may not seem like a lot at first, but keep in mind the average stair is only about 7”.
  • 10 Resistance Levels – The 10 resistance levels on the Peak Trainer guarantee you a challenge no matter what your ability level. This is another aspect of the Peak Trainer that ties in with its focus on HIIT workouts. Speed and time are just two parts of a well-rounded HIIT workout, changing resistance completes the picture.

Our Review of the Horizon Peak Trainer HT5.0

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.


Don’t Belief the ‘Fake News’ About Elliptical Trainers

Here at Fitness-Equipment-Source, we are passionate about educating people on the benefits of modern elliptical trainers.

So, let us help you out by debunking these 5 classic myths about elliptical trainers!

Myth #1 – Ellipticals are too easy

ProForm Endurance 520 E

ProForm Endurance 520 E – This is the lowest priced machine you’ll find on our recommended list.

Many people assume that a workout on an elliptical is not as effective as one on a treadmill, but this simply isn’t the case.

This study from the University of Nebraska shows that “when subjects exercise at the same RPE (rate of perceived exertion) on TM or EL, oxygen consumption and energy expenditure are similar in spite of a higher heart rate on the EL.”

The study shows us that “during cross training or noncompetition-specific exercise, an elliptical device is an acceptable alternative to a treadmill.”

This data also gives us another way to look at an elliptical workout. If you are maintaining the same heart rate on both the treadmill and the elliptical, the RPE on an elliptical will actually be lower.

In other words, you’re getting the same benefits, but it “feels” easier!

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Elliptical Under $800 – Is It a Dud or a Steal?

Sole E20 Elliptical ReviewGREAT DEAL! For a limited time, Sole is offering a FREE 90 day trial membership to their interactive fitness technology Studio with the purchase of any Sole elliptical. 

You may have heard of the brand Sole Fitness. Sole has been around for a long time, and their company has certainly earned their stripes over the years in the fitness industry. While other top name brands such as NordicTrack or ProForm are known for their flashy machines, Sole has established a reputation for durability and consistency in their fitness equipment products.

At our last visit to the Sole corporate headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah, we discussed the mission behind their machines. The owners at Sole told our Fitness Equipment Source team that the goal at Sole is to provide consumers with the highest quality fitness equipment. Their company chooses to spend money on the components and engineering of their products, rather than the bells and whistles you may see on other machines on the market.

Sole ellipticals are appealing to a wide array of budgets. Their machines have always ranged from the $999-$2,500 range. With Sole’s newest elliptical launch, they’ve expanded the affordability of their products even more. The brand new E20 elliptical from Sole is priced below $800, which is a new price category for their company. As most of us know, cheaper doesn’t always mean better. So, the real question is, is the new budget-friendly elliptical from Sole worth your money? Let’s jump right in. Continue reading


How 30 Minutes a Day Can Make a World of Difference

ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro

ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro – Read our full review here.

We all know that cardiovascular exercise is super important. The American Heart Association tells us to get a minimum of 30 minutes per day to keep feeling young.  And doctors tell us that cardio saves lives!

But what if there’s more to the story? What if getting that cardio in each day has more benefits that you ever realized?

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Why It’s Not Always Best to “Rest” Away Pain 

For so many, back pain is a reality that affects every aspect of their lives. When you suffer from back pain it can feel like you just aren’t able to do anything.  It can make you feel like you aren’t yourself anymore.

While it may seem like lying down and staying comfortable until it “gets better” is the best option, that isn’t necessarily the case. Keeping yourself moving and doing cardiovascular exercise can help you feel stronger, healthier and more like yourself again.

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Don’t Let Hip Pain Keep You From Living Your Life

It’s much easier to stay on track when you find a workout routine that works for your specific body.  Plus, a consistent routine will make you finally feel like you’re making progress.  But when you suffer some sort of pain or injury, that progress can be quickly knocked off track.

This is the case for many people that suffer from hip pain due to an injury.  The risk for hip injury increases with age. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, over 300,000 adults over the age of 65 suffer from hip fractures each year.

It doesn’t help that many popular exercises are strenuous on the hips, including hiking, walking on uneven ground, heavy weight lifting routines, running, and a variety of sports like basketball and soccer.

But there is no need to lose your motivation and progress just because of a set-back caused by hip pain. There are many low-impact exercise options to strengthen your hips. These may help prevent an injury before it happens, and will also help keep you moving and shaking throughout your recovery.

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Find Out Which Elliptical Trainers Offer You the Most Value!

2017_topellipticalsThere are many different options when it comes to home ellipticals.  Your most immediate concern may be, “Which one can I afford?!”  We’ve decided to help you out a bit with our top recommendations for elliptical trainers that are under $1,000.  We ranked these machines based on their stability, durability, warranty, features, programming, and company reputation.

Many ellipticals that can be purchased at ‘big box’ stores (a.k.a. those huge fitness superstores) are made of very cheap components that don’t stand up to actual use.  Plus, these machines are often backed by almost non-existent warranties that do you no good when your machine breaks down.

Instead, we’d encourage you to spend at least $599 on one of the machines below.  All of these ellipticals come from reputable companies that use quality components, provide reasonable warranties, and deliver effective workouts.  We know this because (unlike most other elliptical review sites) we’ve actually visited the factories and tested these machines.

So… here you go… our 2017 list of top 10 elliptical trainers for under $1,000!

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Need a Sitting Machine?

Yowza Fitness Naples ReviewThe Yowza Naples, Naples Plus and Naples Elite are basically elliptical trainers that you can sit down on.  The price may give you sticker shock, but quality is unsurpassed and the innovative features will provide you with a very low impact workout that targets both your upper and lower body.

Yowza is built by GreenMaster, one of the leading fitness equipment companies in the industry.  This series of machines is certainly unique, but we are sad to say the company has had a bit of a downslide these last several months.  We no longer feel confident in their service and product availability.  You’d be much better off checking out the Proform Hybrid Trainers which offer similar “sitting down” benefits.  The price tags on the hybrid trainer series are also MUCH more friendly.

Yowza Fitness is OUT OF BUSINESS.

We are still waiting to hear more information about this company but it seems they are no longer producing machines.  

Want a sitting machine?  We actually recommend you check out the ProForm Hybrid Trainers instead of the Yowza machines instead. 

Note: There are three versions of the Yowza Naples –  Regular, Plus and Elite.  The Elite comes with Intelligent Weight Management and MyLiveLight, which are described below.

One of the impressions we got from meeting the staff was their commitment to building some of the most innovative fitness equipment in the industry, and the Yowza Naples Plus is a perfect example.  The Naples Plus and Elite incorporate the unique and innovative features found on Yowza elliptical trainers.  These features like the Cardio Core and pivoting pedals have made their crosstrainers very popular.  The Yowza Naples Plus and Elite are designed for those who want the benefit of an elliptical trainer, but without having to support 100% of their body.  Thus you are able to sit as you workout rather than having to stand, but you can also electronically adjust the amount of support and effort you put on the lower body throughout your workout.

Our Video of a recent trip to Yowza featuring the Naples Elite

Yowza Naples Plus & Elite Innovative Features

Yoza-Naples-ReviewCardio Core Training — What makes the Yowza Naples Plus and Elite so superior to a regular exercise bike workout is the Cardio Core Training.  You have handle bars that pivot left and right.  In the process you are not only working your arms and shoulder, but also you abs.  This feature is found on most of the Yowza ellipticals and it is what has made Yowza a player in the fitness equipment market.  The feedback from customers regarding the Cardio Core has been overwhelmingly positive.

Ergonomic Seating — The thought behind the seating is rather impressive.  First, the seat is powered and has memory for positioning.  When you get on the Yowza Naples Plus and Elite the seating is at its lowest level, for ease of getting on and off (8” inch step-up height).  With the press of a button the seat automatically adjusts to your favorite position. You can adjust the seat higher and lower and this will allow you to redistribute the resistance between your lower and upper body.  So often with an elliptical trainer people will concentrate most of the resistance with their legs and go through the motions with their upper body.  By raising or lowering the seat you can go from a 50 – 50 split to a 30% to 80% distribution of upper and lower body resistance.

Additional Features

Sound System with MP3 Port – Yowza equips their machines with some of the best sounds systems found on any fitness equipment.   There is also a USB charging station.

Tablet Holder — Tablets and smartphones are becoming a popular distraction as people workout.

3-Speed Fan— It won’t blow you away, but it offers some relief.

400 lbs. User Weight — I usually feel companies overrate their user weight limit, but the 400 lbs. is in the ball park.  The user weight also says something about the quality and stability of this machine.

Commercial Grade Brake System (referred to as “Eddy Current”) — The electromagnetic  brake system is top of the line found in commercial grade machines and will result in a very smooth elliptical motion, in addition to being whisper quiet.

Sealed Bearings — All joints feature sealed bearings rather than bushings. Although sealed bearings cost more, they last longer and are very quiet.

Warranty — The warranty is a reflection on the quality of the components, which is Lifetime Frame and Braking system, 7 years parts and 2 years labor.

Yowza Naples Elite Features

IWM (Intelligent Weight Management) System — So many individuals stride to lose weight and get into shape, but lack direction.  The IWM system works with a blue tooth scale.  You weigh yourself and based on your targeted weight, the system creates a workout designed to achieve your goals and downloads it onto the Yowza Naples Elite.

My Live LightMyLiveLight — MyLiveLight is a free fitness app that works in conjunction with the Yowza Boca Treadmill.  It also works in tandem with IWM to create custom programs, manage your personal profile, and it allows you to store and track your progress.  Studies show that individuals who monitor their exercise progress are more likely to achive their goals.  The Naples Elite comes with a tablet holder and with MyLiveLight where  you can track your progress in real time.  In addition, the app allows you to share your progress through social media with others who may be part of your support group.

Our Review — Yowza Naples Plus & Elite

Obviously the Yowza Naples is not for everyone.  It targets individuals that may have physical limitations that make it difficult to exercise in an upright position.  But the Naples Plus & Elite does not limit the benefits of your workout, which include…

  • Getting a strenuous cardio  workout while sitting,
  • Getting a low impact elliptical motion workout,
  • And getting an upper body workout that also targets the abs.

In addition to the health benefits the Yowza Naples Plus & Elite are very durable machines, engineered with quality components.  We would suspect that the Naples would hold up in a light commercial environment.

Since the Yowza company has been experiencing some instability these last few months, you would be better off going with another option like the ProForm Hybrid Trainers.  The Hybrid Trainer and Hybrid Trainer Pro offer another “sitting” option.  Plus, the price tag is very reasonable.


More Negative Reviews Received Than Any Other!

image 8.25 elliptical trainer review

There is only one good argument for buying the Image 8.25 elliptical trainer — it only costs $250. However, we have received more negative reviews on this elliptical trainer than any other!

Realize there is a good chance the Image 8.25 will not last for long, especially if you plan to use it regularly.  What do you expect for $250?

It should be noted this elliptical is not designed for tall or very overweight individuals. At 113 lbs. it is not very stable. Furthermore, being a compact elliptical, tall individuals will find it confining. Also, the reviewer below makes an important point. Rather than sealed bearings the Image 8.25 relies on bushings, which are more likely to wear and require replacement.

The Image 8.25 is no longer available for sale.

Instead, we recommend that you check out a low priced machine from ProForm like the Endurance 520E for $599.  Yes, it costs more, but the difference in quality and durability more than makes up for it!  Another low priced option you may like is the ProForm Hybrid Trainer for only $349.  

 

image 8.25 elliptical trainer consoleThe Image 8.25 has an 18″ stride, which is longer than most ellipticals in this price range. It also is equipped with four different workout programs that automatically control the resistance of the elliptical. This adds some variety.

One recommendation that we suggest for anyone buying an Image product – consider buying the extended warranty. This way you’ll have a little more protection when this machine breaks on you after several weeks of use.

What Do We Recommend Instead of the Image 8.25?

You need to realize that when you purchase a cheap machine like this, you are only going to get a limited amount of use out of it before it breaks.  If you are looking for a machine that will last a significant amount of time and provide a quality workout, then you are much better off going with another brand.

ProForm Endurance 520 E

ProForm Endurance 520 E – This is the lowest priced machine you’ll find on our recommended list.  Read our full review here.

Image is built by Icon Fitness, which is the same parent company that builds ProForm and NordicTrack.  Either one of these brands offers MUCH better value for your money.  They come with better construction, more features, and stronger warranties.  Warranties are important to consider, because they give a clue about how much confidence a company has in their machine.  If a machine has a Lifetime warranty on the frame (like the ProForm Endurance 520 E) than you can bet that they know the frame is well built and can handle the stresses of a vigorous exercise session.

A machine like the Endurance 520 E comes with a longer 19″ stride, decent 16 lb flywheel, iFit Coach fitness tracking programs, 18 built in programs, 300 lb weight limit, EKG Pulse grip heart sensors, and a Lifetime frame, 1 yr parts and labor warranty.  You’ll be spending about twice the amount as the Image 8.25, but the machine will last MUCH longer.  Plus, you’ll be getting a better quality workout with each session.  If you had decided to stick with the Image 8.25, you’ll like suffer through frustrating workouts that don’t do the job before it finally breaks on you.  Then you’re left deciding if you should buy another el-cheapo machine or finally spend the bucks to get a quality brand.

ProForm Hybrid Trainer

ProForm Hybrid Trainer – This machine is usually priced around $349 and receives great customer reviews. Read our full review here.

If you are determined to buy an inexpensive option, then you might also consider the Hybrid Trainer from ProForm for around $349.  This machine is a hybrid elliptical and exercise bike that has gotten very strong reviews over the years.  It is even endorsed by celebrity fitness trainers Chris and Heidi Powell of ABC’s Extreme Weight Loss TV Series!

Just our thoughts.. hope they help!


Here are some more  reviews from customers who have purchased the Image 8.25.

Customer Reviews – Image 8.25

I just got the 8.25 from Wal Mart, the price is attractive for an entry level elliptical $295 with taxes and 2 yr extended warranty. Good packaging and good instructions,labeled fastner kit helps assembly. It appears to be a substantial machine with heavy double bushings at all moving joints, good continuous welds, and a good powder coat paint. The adjustable upper body hand bars is a nice feature, but not sure how well the plastic clamp mechanism will hold up over time. The machine worked correctly the first time, now time will tell about longevity. I think the bushing joints should be dissassembled once a year and repacked with grease, or at the very least have lithium grease shot into the bushings. The maintenance portion of the manual says nothing about future lube but I can see this as a problem for the future given that it is a bushing at wear points and not sealed ball bearings .


I was very happy with my machine until the back bushing shered off and I fell off the machine. I have tried to get the company to fix it. I guess I am out $250.00. – Margaret


I bought the Image 8.25 Elliptical at Wal-Mart for $199.86 plus tax. For anyone who is considering buying this equipment, please listen to my words of warning: DON’T BUY IT. It is a waste of money. I have used this elliptical for three months and the support frame broke. I almost fell off the equipment. I am not overweight so there is no excuse for the frame to break except poor quality. The equipment is junk. Save your money and join a gym for 3 months and you will get a far better workout for the money. I called the company’s toll free number and waited on the line for over 5 minutes. I got a recorded message that all the service reps were busy and to leave my phone number and then I was disconnected. There is NO customer service to help with your complaints. Be warned, NO NOT BUY IMAGE 8.25 ELLIPTICAL. You will regret your decision. – Julie


I love this machine!! I bought it for $288.00 at Walmart two years ago. The only problem I had was the handle bars slid side to side, but my husband put two washers between them and that fixed the problem. I bought the elliptical after I had my second baby and needed to loose the weight. I went from 151 lbs to 129 lbs just using this machine 30 to 45 minutes a day 3 to 5 days a week. Still works as good as it did the first day I used it.


I have owned this machine for 2 yrs now and used it regularly for 6 months, then I joined a gym. It’s not very stable. I weigh 130 lbs and the flywheel axle just broke after I tried to use it for the first time in a year. You get what you pay for. – Angel


Purchased from Walmart. After about 20 uses, center frame rail broke. I weigh 175 lbs. Out of warranty, haven’t tried to call yet, may try to re-weld. Worked fined until then. Shoddy material apparently


I was looking for a low end elliptical to see whether or not I would use it and possibly buy a more expensive model. I have had it for two years, and it is still going strong. While I am fairly small (145) a couple of my friends that are 200+ have used it quite a bit as well. The adjustable handles do work their way down, but other than that I haven’t had any problems. I must admit that my 15-year old daughter put it together…maybe that explains why it has held up so well.


Worked pretty well, except for the heart rate monitor, until the support frame collapsed, ~6 months. While taking it apart to trash it, discovered that the belt that connects the pedals to the resistance device was almost completely worn out too. If you’re getting black fiborous stuff on your floor, that’s probably what it’s from. I’ll plan on spending a bit more on a replacement.


PIECE OF XXXX!!!!! Purchased from Walmart and after a couple of weeks the frame broke. This machine wasn’t worth the box it came in. Don’t waste your time or money… JUNK JUNK JUNK!!!!


bought the 8.25 image elliptical, and it sucks. I use it 5 times, and know it is broke. There is a crack on the bottom, and know it is off balance. Do not buy this brand.

 

Better alternative is the ProForm Endurance 520E or the NordicTrack ACT.


The pandemic brought us face-to-face with our lifestyles and physical and mental health. Many of us realize that we cannot afford to ignore our fitness anymore. We have also discovered that at-home workouts are a convenient and efficient way to get in our daily dose of fitness. Anyone looking for budget-friendly ellipticals has probably come across the Weslo elliptical. These machines are designed for budget-conscious people and recommended for those just starting out on their fitness journey. They have the bare minimum that you could expect from an elliptical. 

While this sounds good on paper, if you actually use a Weslo elliptical regularly, you might not be so sure about the whole budget argument anymore. The budget factor makes sense up to a point. After that, you have to question what you are looking for and what you are willing to give up on for a cheaper option. 

We checked out the Weslo ellipticals to see what these budget machines have to offer and found that their quality corresponds with their relatively lower price. Given the limited features and the minimal warranty, Weslo may not be your best option. If you are dead-set on paying the least that you can or are looking for a short-term machine, you could consider Weslo ellipticals. Otherwise, budget options from quality brands offer you good features and a comfortable experience. 

The Basic Features of Weslo Ellipticals

Weslo Momentum G 3.1 Elliptical - Walmart.comThe basic features of Weslo ellipticals are as follows: 

  • The machines have adjustable seats
  • Screen displays where you can track the distance and keep a count on calories. 
  • They are also easily foldable for convenient storage
  • They are lightweight and easy to move
  • They have a heart rate monitor 
  • They offer upper arm workout 
  • These machines do not have advanced features or consoles
  • Most of their machines come with a 90-day warranty

What to Expect with Weslo Ellipticals? 

Weslo ellipticals have a lightweight construction, so they can be shaky and unstable when you use them. They are cheaply made, and this reflects in the quality of the parts, as they tend to wear down faster and don’t have the durability or solidity of the better quality makes. Working out on these machines is not a smooth experience.

The machine seems awkward, and it tends to rock a little. You may even feel doubtful about its ability to support your weight. It’s not a supportive option, especially for heavier or taller users. It has a maximum of 250 pounds, and the stride is suited for shorter people. They are also noisier than other quality machines and are more prone to breaking down over time. The handlebars, too, are not very comfortable to grip for long. 

Weslo Elliptical Models 

Weslo elliptical offers rear-drive elliptical trainers. Their most available model is the Weslo Momentum G 3.2. Their elliptical trainers have a shorter stride of 12″ and should be able to withstand a weight of up to 250 pounds. Their machines have a 90-day warranty on parts. The consoles are basic and do not compare with those of more quality elliptical trainers. The models have small LCD screens with basic workout details and Easy Pulse heart rate monitoring. They come with transport wheels, which help in moving them. 

Most of the Weslo models don’t seem to be available anymore. While their website doesn’t seem to be displaying any Weslo models, e-retailers are still selling some of them. 

Our Take on Weslo Ellipticals 

Weslo elliptical trainers are not built well and are made with low-quality parts. They wear out soon with regular use. The machines lack basic amenities for comfort, like a cooling fan and a holder for a water bottle. The console is limited and does not have any audio or entertainment. There is a minimal warranty of just 90 days on parts and labor. 

Even if you’re just starting out on your fitness journey, it makes sense to pay attention to the quality of the machine you will be using. Using unsteady and poorly built equipment is not a great idea as a fitness beginner because you are still finding your groove and you risk straining your body. You also want the fitness experience to be more comfortable because you are just starting to develop the habit of fitness. 

Many of us are keen to develop fitness as a lifestyle habit these days. Yet, despite the increased awareness, so many of us find it challenging to do so. What prevents us from developing fitness as a regular lifestyle habit and exercising every day? It’s not just about motivation. On an everyday level, what makes the difference is how the experience of working out feels or how much it appeals to us at that moment. To encourage yourself to get up and get that workout done, you need to ensure that the workout experience is something that you look forward to and enjoy. It needs to feel like a comfortable and supportive experience so that when you look at your elliptical trainer, you really want to work out. As a beginner, when you’re just starting, you’re all the more likely to lose motivation or get discouraged if working out is not convenient or if your fitness equipment is not comfortable. 

However, at the end of the day, these budget models are on the market for a reason. If cost is simply too much of an issue and you cannot afford to think about other factors, you would do well to consider getting a Weslo elliptical. They are also an option to consider if you are at a stage where you cannot make any long-term commitments to regular workouts on an elliptical and are only prepared for a short-term commitment to working out on the same. 

If you will be traveling or staying somewhere for a brief period and are determined to work out in that time, you could go for the Weslo. Otherwise, there are better options for a budget-conscious consumer that don’t make you compromise on the essential factors. 

Quality Alternatives with Budget-Friendly Ellipticals  

Weslo ellipticals are built by Icon Fitness, which is also the maker of NordicTrack and ProForm. NordicTrack and ProForm offer budget-friendly machines that have more durable components and construction. They have great deals and offer you a much better value for your money. What’s more, both the brands offer free shipping. 

Although they might not be as cheap as Weslo, they offer warranties that are much better than the 90-day warranty offered for Weslo ellipticals. These warranties safeguard your money in the long run and vouch for the machine’s quality. 

NordicTrack Studio Smart Elliptical with 20 Digital Resistance Levels,  Compatible with iFIT Personal Training - Walmart.comNordicTrack offers a Studio Elliptical amongst its budget options. This is a front-drive elliptical which comes with some really cool features. These include: 

  • A workout fan that keeps things cool 
  • Oversized cushion pedals for maximum comfort 
  • A stride of 17.5″ to 18.7″ that welcomes even the taller fitness enthusiasts and gives you space to stride naturally 
  • 20 levels of resistance 
  • Supports user weight of up to 300 pounds
  • Digitally amplified speakers and a Bluetooth connection

Amazon.com : ProForm Hybrid Trainer Recumbent Bike and Rear Drive Elliptical,  Compatible with iFIT Personal Training at Home : Sports & OutdoorsProForm budget models include the ProForm Hybrid Trainer, which has a 2-in-1 design of a bike and an elliptical, allowing you to transition between the two modes. 

  • An adjustable, oversized, and cushioned seat
  • Direct streaming of trainer-guided workouts to your tablet or phone
  • Automatic resistance adjustment as you workout 
  • A library with thousands of workouts

These models offer you comfort, durability, and quality features within a more affordable price range. 

A Reliable Alternative: Horizon Fitness

If you want a great, reliable option and a safe bet, consider Horizon Fitness. Horizon Fitness makes its own parts and components for its ellipticals. There are not many fitness brands that do this. This vertical integration of Horizon’s manufacturing process is helpful in terms of maintenance and troubleshooting in case there is a problem with the machine functioning or any of its parts.  

Horizon also provides a Digital Pass that allows you to save a lot of money on fitness applications like Peleton, Daily Burn, and Studio, all integrated with Horizon ellipticals. 

Horizon ellipticals are suitable for taller people, too – they have long and comfortable strides. Since the strides are more natural and less constricting, using these machines makes you feel like you are actually running or brisk walking. 

Using fitness equipment to exercise helps you get into the zone and embrace your inner fitness enthusiast. However, poor quality equipment can make exercising feel inconvenient and clumsy. Especially if you are just starting, it is a risky idea to use poor quality equipment because you are all the more prone to injuring or straining yourself. That’s why it’s so important to have equipment that supports you and provides a steady and stable experience while you push yourself to do your best. Using a poorly constructed elliptical can give you hip and back strain that can be detrimental over time.

Horizon Fitness EX59 EllipticalHorizon ellipticals are professionally engineered and designed for optimal body positioning. The pedals are positioned to reduce stress on the hips and back. 

It offers a great budget model that doesn’t compromise on quality – the Ex-59 Elliptical. Despite being a low price model, it’s the best selling model. It has simple, intuitive controls and reliable components. 

Its features include: 

    • A Bluetooth connection to your device to stream media through speakers 
    • A holder for your device and a USB port 
    • A quick set-up that enables you to start exercising easily
    • A quality pulley system that promotes smooth motion
    • Optimum pedal positioning for reduced stress on the hips and back
    • Lifetime frame warranty

Final Outlook on Weslo Elliptical Trainers

There are better options that are still budget-friendly. NordicTrack and ProForm have great durable models with a reasonably lower cost. Although you may have to pay a little more, it’s worth it in the long run because these machines are built to last. There’s no point in trying to save a few hundred dollars and then having to shell out much more when your machine breaks down. These brands also offer better warranty protection, which is worth paying for to safeguard your money and peace of mind. Weslo elliptical trainers come with a 90-day warranty for parts and labor. Should it stop functioning after 90-days, your money is down the drain. 

What’s more, these quality alternatives also ensure that you don’t give up on comfort. In our hectic lives these days, it’s a feat to just get down to doing that workout and regularly making the time for it. You don’t want to make that even harder for yourself by making the workout experience uncomfortable. You want an experience that rewards you for the effort and energy that you are putting in. 

However, if cost is a deal-breaker for you, then Weslo ellipticals might still be well worth your consideration.

Fitness is a long-term commitment. But there are scenarios where you may find that you are only ready for a short-term commitment, and you are not sure if you can go beyond. In such cases, you can go for the cheaper budget models like Weslo ellipticals. 

Horizon Fitness offers an affordable, comfortable and intuitive model that is a reliable option, irrespective of where you are on your fitness journey. It’s a much better value for your money, and the price difference between the Ex-59 model and the Weslo models is not much. If you are looking to make a sensible buy that will not give you cause for regret, it’s worth considering the Horizon Fitness budget models.