A Strong Reputation for Quality

I recently had the opportunity to test out the new Spirit elliptical trainers at Superior Fitness Systems in Cary, NC. Spirit is best known for creating the concept of wireless heart rate control. They have been in the treadmill business for a number of years, and until recently were building their machines in Arkansas.

I actually had dinner with the founder of the company. He sold out about three years ago to Dyaco International. In the process their treadmills went from being rather boring to extremely stylish. They entered the elliptical business about two years ago.

As with most American fitness equipment companies that transferred their manufacturing to China, the first generation of products had problems. Those issues have been worked out, and now Spirit is once again making quality treadmills and elliptical trainers.

Like so many other fitness companies, Spirit is relatively new to the elliptical trainer business. But they have a reputation for building solid and durable treadmills, and those design techniques appear to be applied to the construction of their ellipticals.

I had just come from Dick’s Sporting Goods, where I tested a Sole Elliptical Trainer. It was difficult to tell the difference between the two brands. And since they are both built by Dyaco, it is obvious that they are basically the same machines being sold to different retail segments. You’ll find Sole at large sporting goods merchants, while Spirit ellipticals are sold through the fitness specialty store. You will get a better deal at the larger sporting stores, while the fitness stores have more knowledgeable employees.

I asked the salesperson about the Spirit Ellipticals. He mentioned that the Spirit appealed to the shopper who wanted quality, but couldn’t afford the big ticket price of the Precor (They had 6 Precor models.) I asked about the service record. He said that with the first few machines that came in there was some minor squeaking that was easily fixed. Since then they were relatively problem free.

Fitness Source Spirit Elliptical Trainer Review

I tested both the Spirit XE295 and the Spirit XE400. Each had a very smooth elliptical motion and was very quiet. They appear to use a heavy flywheel, that was apparent when you stopped the machine and gradually slowed down. The XE400 has a foot pedal angle adjustment feature. You have the ability to angle the pedal up about 5 degrees. The logic behind this design is that not everyone walks the same, and some tend to walk with an inward slope.

Like the Sole elliptical, the Spirit has a 20″ stride length, which makes the elliptical motion very comfortable. I can’t imagine how some companies sell 14″ or 16″ strides, and then suggest they can accommodate people over 6′ tall. The Spirit and Sole ellipticals utilize four wheels, rather than two, on the rear rails. These are the wheels that ride back and forth with the elliptical motion. You can tell the difference. It provides for a very stable feel, and reduces side to side foot pedal motion. This is a feature generally found on more expensive models.

Overall, I would say that the Spirit ellipticals are a good value, as are Sole. One difference is in the warranty. On most models Spirits has a 10 year parts and 1 year labor warranty. The parts coverage is very generous. Sole offers a 5 year parts and 2 year labor warranty, and the 2-years service coverage is also generous.

So which should you buy? If you are going to buy online I would purchase a Sole elliptical from their site. They have good prices that include shipping, and best of all you save on taxes. If you are going to buy locally you may want to purchase a Spirit from a fitness specialty store. You get their expertise and they will give you personal attention. But check out the local Dick’s and compare prices.

Also See:

Spirit XE195 Elliptical Review

Spirit XE295 Elliptical Review

Spirit XE400 Elliptical Review

Spirit XE500 Elliptical Review

Spirit XE700 Elliptical Review

A Spirit Elliptical Trainer offers you an excellent cardio workout. In addition to the physical benefits to exercise, there are mental benefits as well. Follow the link to learn more.

Exercising regularly is proven to benefit your mental well-being as well as your physcial.

Be Cautious with this Company…

Yowza was a small company located in Florida that used to be at the top of our recommendation lists.  However, lately, we’ve noticed some troubling things from Yowza.  It seems like the company wasn’t what it used to be and we no longer felt confident in recommending their products.  Now, it seems, they’ve gone completely OUT OF BUSINESS.  You’d be better off going with a more stable brand like NordicTrack, ProForm, Sole, or Bowflex.

The Yowza Elliptical was manufactured in Taiwan, which is a very important factor as it’s where most high-end elliptical trainers are now built. Practically all fitness equipment is now built overseas, primarily in China and Taiwan. However, there tends to be a real difference between the quality control of the two locations.

Yowza Elliptical Reviews

Select Yowza Ellipticals were fitted with the Cardio Core Training which specifically targets, strengthens and trims your stomach muscles. Pick a model below with the to be sure you get a full body work out

Yowza Miami – $2,799
Included Features: Cardio Core Training, Variable Motion, Bluetooth & Intelligent Weight Management

Yowza Navarre Elite  – $2,599
Included Features: This is a Hybrid Exercise Bike & Elliptical w/ Intelligent Weight Management and Cardio SureTraining

Yowza Jupiter Plus– $1,299
Included Features: Surefit pedals, Variable Incline, Cardio Sure

Yowza Sanibel – $1,699
Included Features: Cardio Core Training

Yowza Pompano $949
Included Features: Cardio Core Training

Yowza Jupiter Pilot – $999
This machine has a 18″-22″ Stride

Yowza Captiva – $1,899
Included Features: Cardio Core Training & Variable Motion

Yowza Naples Plus – $2,399
This is a Hybrid Exercise Bike & Elliptical

Yowza Naples Elite – $2,599
This is a Hybrid Exercise Bike & Elliptical w/ Intelligent Weight Management

Download the Yowza Elliptical Comparison Chart Here

Learn about the patented Cardio Core Training and the Variable Stride technology.

Cardio Core Training

What has really distinguished a Yowza Elliptical from the competition is their innovative Cardio Core technology. They refer to it as a counter rotational core motion. Unlike the usual upper body handlebars that go back and forth with the elliptical motion, you have a two T-shape handlebars that swing left and right with the pedal motion. This simulates a twisting motion as you work out and seriously targets your stomach muscles.

Most elliptical trainer manufacturers claim their machines work both the upper and lower body. This is just NOT true. The majority of the resistance is absorbed by the lower body, while the upper body goes along for the ride.

With the Cardio Core design the motion is similar to doing stomach crunches on the ground. You really feel it in your abs.

This is one one of the only ellipticals available that actually works your upper and lower body. AND it’s the only crosstrainer that specifically targets, strengthens and trims your stomach muscles!

When I first used the Cardio Core feature it felt a bit awkward, since I’m used to the typical dual handlebar motion. However, after awhile I got into the swing of the counter rotational motion and found my rhythm. Now, if I owned one of these machines, I probably would alternate between using the Cardio Core handlebars and using the stationary handlebars. I’m not sure you can maintain the Cardio Core handlebars for extended periods unless you look like the model on their site!

Over the last couple of years the ellipticals with the Cardio Core Training has been their hottest selling items. In fact, Joe Alter, President of Yowza recently said they’ve sold around 10,000 units with Cardio Core and that they make up about 95% of their sales.

Considering you cannot go to a local store and try out these ellipticals, I asked if there have been any people that were dissatisfied with the Cardio Core feature. Since it’s such a different motion than people are used to. Joe mentioned that customers have been overwhelmingly positive about this new technology. You can find the Cardio Core training on the following models:

• Yowza Miami
• Yowza Islamorada
• Yowza Captiva
• Yowza Sanibel
• Yowza Pompano

Variable Motion

With the Variable Motion feature you have 12 different motions that start at 18″, and depending on the model, increase up to 32″. As you move up the levels of motion you go from a standard elliptical stride to a motion that forces you to raise your legs. There are a number of benefits to the Variable Motion:

1. The higher the level the more intense of a cardio workout you get.
2. It breaks-up the repetitive motion you typically get reducing strain on joints.
3. It allows you to target different lower body muscles.
4. It accommodates users of different size and height.
5. It capitalizes on the muscle confusion theory. Changing the shape and intensity of the motion helps to prevent your body from getting acclimated to any one particular motion.

You can find the Variable Motion feature on the following models:

• Yowza Miami
• Yowza Islamorada
• Yowza Captiva

Other Features

Rear Drive Design — There is a controversy over which is a better design – front or rear.  The advantage to the rear drive design is that there are less moving parts.  One of the disadvantages of a front design is that the pedals run on wheels over railings.  The wheels can wear and the railings can rust resulting in obnoxious noises.  I lubricate my front drive elliptical regularly.

Sure Fit Pedals — The Yowza Elliptical has a unique sure fit pedal design, which not only pivots with the motion, but it has a rubber shock absorption to minimize the impact. This is a really great pedal!

Built-in Fan — The fans are directed at your core where they can do the most good.

Speakers and either iPod Docking Station or BlueTooth — Speakers with MP3 input is becoming standard on elliptical trainers, although many manufacturers use very cheap components and drivers. Joe Alter made it a point to tell me that they installed quality products in their sound system. The Yowza Miami utilizes Bluetooth 4.0.

Sealed Bearings — The Yowza elliptical has a sealed bearing at the pivotal points. There are no bushings, which are more likely to wear out.

Sold Factory Direct — I know, countless manufacturers claim to sell factory direct and they do.  The problem is they also sell through third parties, like large sporting goods chains or fitness specialty stores. Consequently, they cannot undersell their retailers. And the retailers have to set a price that covers the cost of the machine, their overhead and provides a profit. Yowza is a pure play factory direct seller. They only sell through the Internet and directly to the end user.

New! Hybrid Exercise Bike and Elliptical Trainer — For those that have trouble standing while exercising or struggle with an elliptical, Yowza developed the Naples. This machine allows you to site and still get an intense workout and includes the cardio training. See our complete review.

Our Review of the Yowza Elliptical

Back when I went out to see the new line-up of Yowza ellipticals, I was expecting to see your typical run of the mill machines. However, what I saw was a series of ellipticals that were as good, and often better in quality than the competition. More importantly, I saw innovative features that were very exciting and appealing.

In the four years that Yowza Fitness has been selling ellipticals, their products have had a very impressive service record. While their models with the Cardio Core Training have proven to be very successful and popular with their customers.

However, recent issues with the company make us question the service you’ll receive from Yowza now-a-days.  You would be better off going a more stable brand like NordicTrack, ProForm, Sole, or Bowflex.

Some of the Best in the Industry

True is best known for their treadmills — some of the best in the industry, and are found in health clubs and other commercial environments.

Click here to read our review of the True M30 Elliptical Trainer.

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

The 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 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

ProForm 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 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.

Ellipticals are considered great fitness machines because using them is easy and they’re easier on your joints, but they also can create a great impact in your fitness.

The elliptical cross-trainers by Life Fitness are one of a kind, and known for their unique features. Life Fitness has built a reputation for making quality ellipticals, making themselves a trustworthy brand throughout the years.

If you have ever exercised in a hotel gym, chances are that you have used a machine from LifeFitness. This brand is the most popular one that’s featured in health clubs and hotels across the globe. This really works in the favor of you as the consumer. Why? Because of their constant everyday use by many users across the globe, these machines are continually undergoing testing and getting consumer feedback to ensure these machines and their features are top-notch.

The price of Life Fitness Ellipticals ranges from $2,199 to $8,999. This gives the customers with different budgets a wide range of choices; they can easily pick one that matches their budget. Our Life Fitness elliptical review will help you make a purchase decision.

Company History

Life Fitness is one of the leading fitness companies in the world. They are known for manufacturing some of the best fitness equipment. They are best known for their stationary bikes and treadmills; however, they have recently become quite popular for their ellipticals. They have a reputation for building the first stationary bike, which has become the most popular equipment in gyms worldwide.

The company was established in 1977 and is currently headquartered in Illinois, United States. They have been in the business for more than 40 years now, and they make all kinds of gym equipment ranging from cable machines to cardio equipment. They are dedicated to creating and providing fitness solutions that inspire the world. They believe in bringing lifestyle changes and promoting healthy living through cardio, strength, and group training.

Characteristics of Life Fitness Ellipticals

Life Fitness Ellipticals have mastered making the best-in-class ellipticals when maintaining the highest quality standards and are known for using some of the best technology out there. They are known for providing the smoothest elliptical motion and make no sound, making them ideal for both gyms and homes. The ellipticals from Life Fitness have an excellent finish, and they are rock solid from every angle.

Life Fitness has a great team, and they invest a lot in research and development. With research, they try to enhance the efficiency of all of their products. As we are all aware, research and development play an essential role in developing any product, and it is necessary when it comes to gym equipment. Life Fitness has invested in its research and development to create world-class equipment. Without this investment, they would not have been able to get this level of excellence in their products.

Life Fitness ellipticals can be your everyday gym partner as they keep your body and everyday exercise schedule in mind. Life Fitness has always been considered one of the best options for home ellipticals. There are several special features of the Life Fitness ellipticals making them one of the best options out there.

Life Fitness Elliptical Features

Parts

The parts of any elliptical are the most important components of an elliptical that you buy. Most of the parts of Life Fitness Ellipticals are designed and manufactured in-house. This makes it easy to get a warranty on the final product, and in case you encounter any deformity in the product, you can easily get the parts exchanged under a good warranty plan.

Customer Service

Something else that makes Life Fitness Ellipticals different from other elliptical companies is their customer service. When the customer service providers take calls from the customers, they make sure that they satisfy all the customers and answer their questions. Life Fitness has invested in onboarding people who know how to handle customers and who are always ready with an answer. They have invested in quality workers that can take care of all of their customers’ needs.

Comfort

Gym equipment can often be uncomfortable at times, but the Life Fitness ellipticals provide comfort to everyone who uses it. The foot paddles create a comfort zone for the user, making handlebars easy to reach and the exercise easier to perform. Life Fitness has specifically designed their ellipticals so that leg placement is comfortable for the user. There are several ellipticals out there where the position of the handle is not in sync with the foot pedals, and that may cause some discomfort to the person who is performing the exercise. However, this problem is not the case of the Life Fitness ellipticals. The designers of these products have added features such as adjustable stride lengths on the E5 Elliptical Cross-Trainer to ensure comfort for all users.

Durability

Another important aspect of buying a piece of gym equipment is its durability. Life Fitness ellipticals are a game-changer when it comes to durability. All the elliptical parts and the entire elliptical itself are pretty durable. All the Life Fitness ellipticals are low maintenance, and you do not have to spend a lot on their upkeep. The equipment works fine for years, and hence you don’t need to worry a lot about the maintenance and other related costs that come with buying an elliptical. The ellipticals are extremely comfortable to use and feel sturdy and durable. Minor problems at times might include a squeaking noise from the elliptical, in which case applying some sort of lubricant is almost always the fix. Life Fitness ellipticals do not encounter any significant breakdowns in general, taking away the fear of a piece of equipment breaking while in use, as that might appear in other brands.

Final Life Fitness Elliptical Review

Life Fitness is the leading player in the market, and it is known for making some of the best ellipticals. Our team has tested out Life Fitness ellipticals several times, and these ellipticals have fared pretty well during every testing session. Life Fitness has an industry reputation for manufacturing equipment of very high quality.

The best part about all the equipment from Life Fitness is that they are incredibly comfortable and feel sturdy and durable. They have a smooth motion, and they provide a great workout experience.

All the Life Fitness ellipticals have received excellent reviews from customers as they are pretty low maintenance, and the audience loves that about these ellipticals.

However, these machines are pretty heavy and rock-solid, making them less portable.

Also, these machines are pretty expensive, and you will have to invest a heavy amount in buying ellipticals from Life Fitness. Therefore, if you are running low on budget or looking for economical options, these ellipticals will not be ideal.

After weighing in all the opinions and the customer feedback, we can conclude that Life Fitness ellipticals are a good investment. They are ranked entirely above some of the ellipticals from some major fitness companies. A Popular Consumer Magazine gives Life Fitness an “Excellent” rating for both quality and exercise variety and a “Very Good” rating for ease of use and convenience.

They have also re-engineered some of their ellipticals which makes it an ideal option. If you are looking for some cost-effective options, this might not be the best option for you. This is a good buy if you are looking for an elliptical that can be a great in-home workout option. Though it is expensive, it is a great buy if you are looking for advanced features in an elliptical.

Bring your favorite Life Fitness equipment from health club to doorstep.

You can go with ellipticals from NordicTrack or ProForm if you are looking for economical options but comparable features. *Note: see our NordicTrack and ProForm reviews for more information.

Only One Elliptical – But It’s a Good One!

Nautilus only has one elliptical trainer but they made sure it was a really good one.  The Nautilus E514 is extremely similar to the popular Schwinn 430.  In fact, it has won our “Best Buy” award for budget ellipticals along with a “Best Buy” rating from a popular consumer magazine.

Not bad for a company that builds one elliptical along with some exercise bikes, treadmills, and home gym sets.

Click here to read my review of the Nautilus E514

Considerable Thought for Ergonomics and Biomechanics

We have a dedicated and well-equipped team, and our members love their jobs! No matter how far the fitness machine manufacturers’ headquarters are, if we get to know a new company, we begin our mission to the head office to find out their production and product quality. 

When we came to know about Octane Elliptical, we did not wait a minute and geared up to visit their headquarters. We also hear that Octane is a company that is solely dedicated to manufacturing ellipticals. This made us very hopeful about finding a genuine fitness manufacturer. The Octane also has its entire concentration on cross-training equipment manufacturing.  We thought that commitment to one type of training equipment is shown not just in the machine’s excellence but also in its creative features. So, we were very excited to explore. 

We headed towards US Fitness in Cary, NC, to try out a few of their models. We met with the store manager, Brandyn, and he claimed that Octane dedicates itself to manufacturing high-quality machines. As soon as we heard that, we started examining the ergonomics, biomechanics, and other factors of their ellipticals to know the truth. 

What Is Our Take On Octane Elliptical After The Primary Research Gets Done? 

Every machine requires a special building or engineering blueprint to become ergonomically as well as functionally beneficial for the users. When we exercise on a fitness machine, our goal is to burn calories or get into the right shape. We do not want to experience pain and injuries from exercising due to poor design.

So, we looked into this factor that is crucial to ensure that Octane Ellipticals are not only safe but also effective in pursuing a fitness goal. We examined its overall construction quality, stride facilities, pedal condition, display design, handlebar quality, etc., to learn about its practicality as a fitness machine. 

Our findings led us to believe that since Octane is solely dedicated to manufacturing ellipticals, it has extensive knowledge and skilled people who are the masterminds behind building the fitness machines. However, we feel that they could even excel better at introducing the latest technologies and innovative features to make the fitness machine even more beneficial for the users. In our opinion, the current market has numerous fitness training machines that have way more advantages in the same price range. The Sole fitness machines are well-known because of their budget-friendly products offering various latest technological advancements to make your exercise experience way better. 

So, despite having well-equipped features, we would like to recommend the Sole ellipticals over the Octane ellipticals. 

What are the key factors making us suggest the Sole ellipticals over the Octane ellipticals?

Construction Of The Machine:

Since a fitness machine is designed to deal with substantial human weight, the machines must be strong and stable. After researching the Octane ellipticals, we learned that they are fairly strong and stable. Even when I attempted to move the pedals from left to right, there was almost no movement. However, there was not much information regarding how much human weight the fitness machine is able to carry. So, things get confusing here, and if you are not sure about this thing, it might be a big risk to use this machine. If the machine cannot take your weight, you may fall down and could also get hurt. 

If we consider Sole ellipticals that belong in the same price range, we can see that these ellipticals offer a way more solid and reliable construction. The Sole fitness equipment is built to withstand repeated usage and human weight. All of the elliptical models weigh between 189 and 215 pounds. The sole ellipticals also have a long bottom platform that provides the user with maximum security and training convenience. The machines are built with heavy-duty steel frames, delivering strong and durable equipment. The elliptical foot pedals include two wheels that glide along the lines.

Pedal spacing: 

When we looked for detailed information regarding the pedal spacing of Octane fitness equipment, we discovered that Octane ellipticals have pedals that are no more than 1.8″ apart. This implies the fact that the pedal spacing is very low. This allows short people to get the most out of their elliptical stride. It also helps them to prevent lateral hip shifting and back and knee tension. 

If your exercise machine’s pedal spacing allows you to modify its height and strength to fit your body structure and strength, you’ll be less likely to sustain a body injury when exercising. The shorter pedal space of Octane ellipticals might be inconvenient for taller people. So, we looked for an alternative and learned that Sole ellipticals have the most convenient feature to overcome this issue.

The Sole ellipticals have included an adjustable pedal spacing facility to modify the pedal spacing as per convenience. The adjustable foot pedals on the Sole elliptical trainer make it simple to adapt your machine to suit your body properly, reducing the likelihood of training accidents. The adjustable foot pedals on sole elliptical machines are a terrific way to get rid of stiffness and soreness in your feet if you have flat feet or high arches. It also helps ladies who have hip ailments as a result of workout strains.

Speaker Facility:

Many people prefer to work out with some sort of outside motivation such as music, fitness video trainings, or maybe a video call with a friend. This factor requires having an in-built speaker facility in the fitness machine. However, it seems that Octane ellipticals are not updated enough with the trend of technological advancements in fitness machines. So, they have not included such a facility in their ellipticals. When you are paying a huge amount of money to purchase an elliptical, it is always a good idea to invest in a model that has the latest features and technological facilities.  We suggest you have a look at the Sole ellipticals that come with an in-built speaker facility. While exercising, you may connect your iPhone or iPad to the in-built speaker of your Sole machine and listen to your favorite music to increase the intensity of your workout. Nothing could be more beneficial to you in terms of keeping your fitness routine enjoyable.

Wireless and Bluetooth Technology for Fitness Tracking

In order to achieve a long-term goal, it’s vital to keep track of our progress and adhere to an exercise regimen when we first start doing something.

This aspect has brought us wireless technology that has enabled the fitness machine to track our progress via Bluetooth in a very effective way. We looked for this feature in Octane ellipticals and discovered that their machines do not yet have this advanced technology. Although their machines track the physical exertion rate while working out, that is not as effective as the wireless Bluetooth technology. However, the latest elliptical models launched by Sole Fitness have this feature to help you be motivated in pursuing your health journey. This feature of Sole models connects your fitness machine to your tablet or smartphone, making it easy to track and assess your workout information and stats. The bulk of their equipment is also compatible with the most up-to-date fitness monitoring software.

Handlebars With a Multi-Positioning System

While doing exercise, the multi-position handlebars let you modify the upper body position at various angles. This is an important and very functional feature because it lets you exert the amount of pressure you want to exert on a specific area of your body. The multi-position handlebar facility becomes very beneficial if someone has an agenda for working on their upper body muscles. 

It also becomes very useful for someone who is a beginner and wants to put the minimum amount of pressure on his or her body while working out and also wants to gradually intensify the workout routine. Unfortunately, Octane ellipticals do not possess such a feature. However, if you are opting for the Sole elliptical, you will get to enjoy this feature.

Customer Review on the Octane Ellipticals: 

• “I climbed on the Octane Q37e and fell in love with it right away; it felt exactly like the Precor in terms of shape and structure.” The machine is fantastic, and the upper body element is fantastic, not to forget the pricing, which ranges from $2,300 to $2,700 based on where you get it. However, because it is a domestic unit, the insurance is not as good.”
• “Ergonomically constructed grips put your muscles to the test in all the correct spots.” You’ll get a wonderful all-over exercise with the challenging upper-body resistance program and two lower-body workouts. So that kids can’t damage themselves, a particular attribute disables switches.”

Our Final Thoughts:

It is very important nowadays for companies to manufacture their products while ensuring an optimal user experience. The current technologically improved fitness machine manufacturing industries concentrate on the above-mentioned factors to deliver the best exercise machine possible to the customers. Their fitness machines not only help users to carry on an effective exercise regimen but also have in-built technologies to navigate the exercise performance of the users to assess the fruitfulness of the fitness routine. 

Our experienced team, which runs many tests and possesses experience in reviewing hundreds of fitness machines, believes that the features provided by the Octane Ellipticals are not very beneficial according to today’s fitness journey needs. The specifications are a bit old-school and there are many other options on the market that can offer you way better features and functionality within the same price range. 

Our suggestion would be to opt for the Sole Fitness ellipticals instead of the Octane Ellipticals to enjoy the latest technology. Click here to learn more information about Sole Fitness ellipticals.

Provide an Exceptional User Experience

Precor creates some of the best ellipticals available in the market today. These creations from Precor are customized to give you the exercise experience you desire. Precor launched the first Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer, or EFX, in 1995. The trainer is famous and a preferred elliptical for those who love to exercise, with over 300,000 ellipticals placed worldwide. 

The EFX imitates the natural elliptical motion path of the foot in the course of walking and running to lessen the impact and uses CrossRamp® technology to engage a range of lower-body muscles. Precor elliptical has no affiliates, and the only alternative that assures quality and durability is Sole ellipticals.

Why Consider a Precor Elliptical?

Precor is consistent in its efforts to improve its cardio plans, including EFX with Converging CrossRamp+. The brand works to provide you with exercise equipment at the next level. This Elliptical combines over 20 years of expertise in the field to hold category leadership, attract the lowest warranty claims, and the highest durability.

Customer feedback guides the Precor designers in creating exercise equipment to provide the best ownership experience possible. The patented Precor motion path gives it an edge over its competitors. Get Precor Ellipticals for your gym and watch the exercisers who frequent your gym enjoy the motion path feature. The premium quality will ensure that they will surely come back for more, and its durability will significantly benefit you.

Patented Precor Motion Path That Brought a Revolution in Fitness Industry

Indoor aerobic workouts are high impact exercises that pose two significant problems for exercisers:

• Strain to the joints
• Works only a few muscles and not the whole body.

The primary fault of cardio equipment is that it does not deliver a real cross-training advantage, and that is because aerobic conditioning concurrently strengthens and cross-trains other muscles.

But the advantage of the combination of elliptical motion and CrossRamp technology eliminates the above drawbacks with the patented Precor Motion Path. Precor uses CrossRamp technology to lessen the impact by imitating a running human foot’s natural elliptical motion path and stimulating a range of lower-body muscle exercises.

Patented Precor Motion Path: The Only Way to Efficient Training

When you run, your foot uses the elliptical path. The Precor elliptical replicates the natural jogging movement by creating a smooth elliptical motion via an innovative circular structure and patent combination that couples a hind flywheel with a foot pedal in the front. 

The patented Precor motion path help decrease the pressure on the muscles and tendons to bring down the tension by holding your heels on the pedals.

EFX minimizes impact and helps you move effortlessly by reducing Relative Perceived Exertion (RPE). The seamless exercise is so comfortable that you will not feel much strain although you are working out hard. Hence you will tire less, exercise more, and get fit faster.

People who believe in fitness find the Precor Elliptical a genuine cross-trainer. Both manual and automated cross-trainers are built with an adjustable CrossRamp that changes the path. 

A Precor EFX with CrossRamp technology is a genuine Crosstrainer. All Crosstrainers, whether automated or manual, include an adjustable CrossRamp that changes the height of the elliptical path as your foot travels. Variable Stride GeometryTM allows you to focus on particular or all main lower body muscles, allowing you to work those muscles of your body that your wish to, whenever you want, with the least amount of muscle fatigue.

You’ll stay more interested and inspired if you switch up your routines, making it simpler to hop back on your EFX with vigor and delight.

Precor Elliptical’s Organic Interaction With Your Body

Precor Elliptical is Easy on Your Joints

If you must reduce the pressure jogging exerts on the joints of your body, you must learn the movement of your feet during the run. The Engineers at Precor worked on the human foot’s actions in the course of running to discover the elliptical route. The discovery led them to use a circular flywheel in unison with a pedal in the front that moves downwards on an adjustable diagonal ramp to produce a machine to match the elliptical motion.

Revolutionizes the Workout Environment

Precor introduced patented CrossRamp technology to an already pioneering design to give a cross-training advantage. You can now change the CrossRamp angle, which changes the elliptical route, to replicate other workouts like hiking or cross-country skiing. The CrossRamp function builds lower-body strength and keeps training routines new and motivating, so you can push yourself to new levels of activity and achieve your fitness objectives.

Customized to Fit all Kinds of Bodies

Precor tested the innovation on persons of various weights and heights after successfully replicating the natural running action. We modified the equipment by altering the distance between the flywheel and pedals to allow anyone of any size to obtain results on the same machine.

Easy And Comfortable Workouts

The disparity between how hard your brain believes you’re working and how hard your heart actually works is RPE. When you jog, the impact on your ankle, knee, and other afflicted joints is minimized, which reduces the perceived degree of exertion. Each foot hit is absorbed to a large extent by our proprietary elliptical technology. As a result, you have a more enjoyable workout that keeps you motivated and on track to achieve your fitness objectives.

Other Features of Precor’s Elliptical

Converging CrossRamp gives a natural feel by replicating your stride for a joyful exercise experience. Here is a list of Precor’s Ellipictal features:

Unbeatable Quality that Lasts

Here is why we say the Precor excellence is hard to beat. Industry data indicated that one out of 33 pieces of sold fitness equipment has initial servicing issues, roughly 3%.

That is proof that Precor products meet commercial specifications. Many of Precor’s commercial elliptical parts are also found in the ones the brand manufacturers as home fitness equipment. Precor’s Elliptical is first tested in a commercial environment which later modifies to become a fantastic Precor home Elliptical. 

Precor CrossRamp Technology that Makes Exercising Fun

Precor innovators do not stop after the invention of the elliptical trainer. Still, they also work to change the angle of your elliptical stride by developing the CrossRamp technology. After a thorough study, the researchers at Precor discovered that combining the elliptical motion with the incline produced the best overall outcomes. The CrossRamp design is patented by Precor. Other elliptical brands are available in the market with an inclination element, but they all must settle to work around Precor’s design.

You can work your quads, calves, hamstrings, and glutes at different angles by using the CrossRamp technology. Also, the CrossRamp technology works much better for glutes and quad workouts than an exercise bike, treadmill, or stairclimber. And to top it all, the strain on your joints is lesser.

What makes Precor incline elliptical trainer better than the others available in the market? The revolutionary ramp’s design allows you to hold a natural elliptical motion by increasing the angle of the slope. In fact, that’s what contributes to its comfortable, natural feel. It also gives Precor an edge over its competitors. 

Precor’s competitors can’t match this distinctive design, so they settle for an inclination that makes a kidney bean motion with the rising gradient. The drawback of such a mechanism is that it results in abrupt accelerations and decelerations, increasing tension and strain on your joints.

Perceived Exertion at the Lowest

Studies showed the researchers at Precor that the CrossRamp significantly reduces the users’ perceived effort levels. In other words, you shed more weight by burning more calories by it does not tire you.

In fact, when treadmill and elliptical users were compared, most treadmill users clearly stated that they worked harder because the impact was recorded as effort, elevating the perceived degree of exertion.

Elliptical trainers reduce perceived exertion significantly. Moreover, Precor ellipticals’ superior biomechanics and ergonomics elevate them to be the industry leader.

Precor ellipticals are also among the most ergonomic cross-trainers available. Precor, for example, is one of the easiest ellipticals to stand on. Your heels are kept down on the foot pedal due to the balanced posture. On the other hand, most other treadmill manufacturers have a tendency to raise your heel with each elliptical stride. Because your foot is rising up off the foot pedal, this causes numbness in your feet and may cause knee and hip issues.

The above is true in the case of the front-drive elliptical, for after approximately 20 minutes of use, users have foot numbness. But when the very same users exercised on the Precor Elliptical, they experienced no numbness and could go on for more time.

Precor Elliptical Models

Precor offers seven elliptical trainer models in two series:

• Precision

The Precision Series is made in the United States. The ellipticals in each series are available with either a 20 console or a high-end, interactive 40 console.

• Energy

The Energy Series is an entry-level elliptical built in Taiwan.  

The 40 consoles were created to help you get the most out of your workout. Here are a few of the highlights:

• A clear 7″ color liquid crystal display
• Simple adjustment with the lever-type motion control.
• 4 user IDs
• Workout suggestions to meet your fitness goals
• 23 pre-programmed workouts
• 27 feedback metrics, including 5 graphs
• Heart rate monitoring via touch or wifi
• Monitoring of heart rate target zones
• USB port for cellphones and tablets with a headphone jack
• Future software upgrades can be downloaded
• Reading racks with clips attached to a tablet
• Priva Compatible, allowing you to save your stats online.

Precor Elliptical and Adaptive Motion Trainer Models

Precor EFX 222 

Precor EFX 225 

Precor EFX 635 Elliptical with CrossRamp

Precor EFX 665 Elliptical with CrossRamp

Precor EFX 685 Elliptical with CrossRamp

Precor EFX 835 Elliptical with Converging CrossRamp

Precor EFX 865 Elliptical

Precor EFX 885 Elliptical

Precor EFX 833 Elliptical

Precor EFX 863 Elliptical

Precor EFX 883 Elliptical

Precor AMT 733 Adaptive Motion Trainer

Precor AMT 835 Adaptive Motion Trainer

Precor AMT 865 Adaptive Motion Trainer

Precor AMT 885 Adaptive Motion Trainer

Precor Ellipticals, the most Preferred Elliptical

There is probably no other workout equipment manufacturer on the earth that has put as much effort into developing biomechanics designed to replicate the way you move. The study was taken off the drawing board and tested in a business setting. All of this research and development culminated in their unrivaled household elliptical trainers.

Is Precor Reliable?

We once heard a narrative from a person who had the pleasurable opportunity of visiting Woodinville, WA. The person shares that he was blown away by what he saw there. The first thing that struck a chord in him was Precor’s commitment to creating fitness equipment to ensure that users have the most incredible user experience.

The primary focus of Precor is quality control and innovation. Hence most Precor ellipticals features are covered by patents, and these patented features are unique and exclusively available in Precor ellipticals making the product the most globally preferred fitness equipment.

Benefits of Using Precor Elliptical

The primary benefit of using Precor Elliptical is that it helps you exercise your whole body. We have listed a few more benefits for you:

Precor Ellipticals are Low Impact Fitness Machines

There is no abrupt up-and-down action or repetitive contact as you would receive from jogging since people move in a gentle gliding manner. This makes them suitable for people who have joint difficulties or are overweight and have trouble jogging.

Multipurpose Fitness Machines

Users may configure an elliptical to replicate resistance, the amount of power required to complete a stride. On the other hand, Precor ellipticals are the only machines in the market with an inclination setting, which can aid in strengthening and toning the user’s legs. During the workout, moving your entire body keeps your heart beating, making it an effective aerobic machine.

Circuit Training is Easy with a Precor Elliptical

Users may go on and off the elliptical as required because they don’t have to wait for the belt to warm up as they would on a treadmill, and this saves time and prevents exercisers from losing inertia during circuit training.

Precor Elliptical — FAQs

• Who Must Use Precor Elliptical?

The Precor Elliptical is a great buy for anybody serious about getting in shape and losing weight and not only for sportspersons or athletes. Precor elliptical trainers are made for people who demand the finest and refuse to compromise.

• Are Precor ellipticals worth it?

Precor Ellipticals are of exceptional quality. They are very well manufactured and constructed, developed and created with various users in mind, and packed with valuable features and capabilities. 

• Which is the latest model of Precor Elliptical?

The latest model in Precor Elliptical is the Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer™ (EFX®), the Experience™ Series EFX with Converging CrossRamp®.

Elliptical Trainer Benefit #1 – Very Low Impact

Most lower body injuries from exercising come from “impact”. This impact can affect your ankles, knees and lower back.   When you walk, jog or run there is some type of impact.  In fact, when you run you can hit the surface with up to 2.5 times your body weight.  If you are a regular runner that constant impact can take its toll on your body.   If you are overweight, the impact of walking can also have a negative effect.

The elliptical trainer was designed to significantly reduce the impact to your joints.  Your lower body works in an elliptical motion.  It is as if you are running in the air.  There is no lifting or reverse motion.  Your feet never leave the pedals.  There is some pressure to your lower joint, but is considerable less than what you experience walking, jogging or running.

There are many more health benefits to using an elliptical.  Exercise can help slow the process of aging, reduce stress, and even help individuals manage conditions like insomnia and ADHD.  Overall, it’s a great way to make both your body and mind happier and healthier!

Elliptical Trainer Benefit #2 – Dual Action Workout

An elliptical trainer offers the advantage of exercising both your upper and lower body simultaneously.  That allows you to tone both your upper and lower body muscles.  Some studies suggest by exercising more muscles groups you are burning more calories more efficiently.  In fact, these reports that suggest you have a lower perceived level of exertion.  You are working out harder without noticing it.

It should be noted that with the upper body workout you are only toning certain muscles, and it is important to consider alternative weight resistant exercises to compliment your crosstraining workout on an elliptical trainer.

Elliptical Trainer Benefit #3 – Fewer Mechanical Issues

An elliptical trainer has certain mechanical advantages over a treadmill that result in fewer service issues. A treadmill must withstand the constant abuse that comes with the pounding from walking, jogging or running.  This constant impact can take its toll on a treadmill over time.

In addition, there are more moving parts on a treadmill.  You have a motor that is constantly turning rollers that move a treadbelt over a deck.  Combine all these moving parts with the constant impact of a user and you have a formula for problems.

An elliptical trainer, in contrast, has fewer moving parts, which means fewer parts that can fail.  For example, an elliptical relies on the user’s exertion to drive the machine, not a motor.  Furthermore, since there is not impact with the elliptical motion, the machine experiences less abuse.  Fewer moving parts and less impact result in fewer mechanical issues.

Elliptical Trainer Benefit #4 – Exercising in the Convenience of Your Home

One of the major deterrents to exercise is getting to the place where you need to exercise, like the gym or local health club. If you have to get into a car and fight traffic to do something you probably are not really into, you probably will blow if off. Some people may waste an hour just getting back and forth to the gym. When the equipment is in your home it just makes it so much easier.

Elliptical Trainer Benefit #5 – The Guilt Trip

After spending money on an elliptical trainer you inevitably feel guilty when you do not use it. It stares at you and reminds you that you should get off your butt, put down unhealthy foods, and burn some calories.

Not too many years ago if you went to a health club you would see a row of treadmills and maybe a couple of elliptical trainers. Now you will probably see equal numbers.  Elliptical trainers are proving to be the choice for a cardio workout, particularly for individuals who want a combined workout that is friendlier to their joints.

Check out our Complete Buyer’s Guide to find answers to all of your Elliptical FAQs.  Or, go right to our Best Buy Ellipticals page to start finding your ideal machine.

Next: Video of Elliptical Buyer’s Guide by Industry Expert Fred Waters