Ergonomically Designed with Interactive Apps

Horizon Elite E7

The Horizon Fitness Elite E7 elliptical trainer is designed around the ergonomics needs of the user.  We used to feel that Horizon ellipticals were starting to get stale, and they were falling behind some of the technological advances made by other fitness equipment companies.  With the new line-up of Horizon machines they are once again at the front of the pack in both quality and innovation.

There is a drive in the fitness equipment industry to merge machines with interactive technology and the Internet.  Buying exercise machines is all about reaching your fitness goals, whether that may be weight loss or an overall healthy lifestyle.  The numerous features on the Horizon Elite E7 elliptical are designed to do just that.

Horizon Fitness is built by the third largest manufacturer of fitness equipment in the world – Johnson Fitness.  It’s the same company that builds Vision Fitness and Matrix Fitness.

Horizon Fitness Elite E7 Elliptical Trainer Features

Ergonomic Design & Engineering – Horizon conducted research on elliptical trainer users to better understand what mechanical features they found most appealing.  From that research they came up with their “SixStar Frame”, which are six design details to create a very natural and comfortable workout.   We can’t emphasize the importance of proper ergonomic features in reducing aches and pains from exercise.  The SixStar features are…

1. Smooth Elliptical Stride – The Elite E7 uses a combination large drive pulley ratio and a heavy 23 lb. flyhwheel to create a smooth and efficient elliptical motion.
2. Narrow Pedal Distance – One of the benefits of a front drive elliptical trainer is that you can place the pedals very close to each other, this reduces stress to your hips. Wide pedal separation can be particularly stressful to women.  On the Elite E7 the pedals are about as close as you can get.
3. Optimal Handlebar Spacing – Handlebars are at a 45 degree and are within easy reach. They are positioned where you hands would naturally be on your side.
4. Straight Body Posture – Many elliptical trainers tend to force you to lean forward because of the positioning of your body over the mechanism. On the Horizon Elite E7 your body is in an upright posture resulting in more comfort and reducing the feeling of exhaustion.
5. Natural Elliptical Stride – Rather than an oval, bouncy stride, you get a flat elliptical pattern that mimics running or walking on air.  This is also less stressful you joints and your lower back.
6. Low Pedal Height – The pedals are easy to mount and dismount because of their low 10” height.  Many find mounting a rear drive elliptical to be awkward and difficult.

20” Elliptical Stride Length – This is a standard stride length for an elliptical over $1,000. It will accommodate the majority of users.

Power Incline – Another standard feature on most elliptical trainers.  By raising the power incline you target additional lower body muscle, in addition to increasing your cardio exertion and burning more calories.

214 Lb. Unit Weight – The advantage of the heavy weight is that the Horizon Elite E7 elliptical is very stable.  The disadvantage is that it can be hard to move around.  You may  want to consider getting inside delivery.  Often standard delivery is to the curb.

Warranty – The lifetime frame and motor and 5-year parts coverage is standard at that this price.  However, many companies offer  2-year labor coverage and Horizon only offers 1-year.   Although in comparison to treadmills, elliptical trainers typically have less service issues.

See a complete comparison chart of Horizon Ellipticals here.

Technology Features

ViaFit –  ViaFit allows the Elite E7 elliptical to communicate with the Internet.  Through your ViaFit account you can create challenges and track your stats and your progress online.  What is also very appealing about the technology is that you also can download stats from popular health, fitness and weight loss apps.  ViaFit gives you a central location to review your progress towards your fitness goals, and best of all, it is free.

Passport – This interactive feature allows you to workout in a virtual world.  There are videos of famous cityscapes and landscapes from around the world, like National Parks.  They were shot by individuals with head cams.  The speed of your elliptical motion on the Elite E7 syncs with the video.   You need to purchase a box and cables that connects the E7 to your television.  Passport is designed to take the boredom out of exercising in place.

42 Installed Exercise Programs – You get a wide range of installed programs that control the Elite E7 and are focused on various goals like interval training, calorie burn, distance, performance and step.  Plus there is the manual program and two custom.

Other features include speaker, MP3 input, fan, reading rack, bottle holder, heart rate monitoring, wireless heart rate chest strap and 8.5” LCD display.

Our Review – Horizon Fitness Elite E7 Elliptical Trainer

There are several strong arguments for buying the Horizon Elite E7 elliptical trainer:

• This is a heavy duty crosstrainer designed to take abuse.
• The E7 offers numerous ergonomic features that minimize the stress and strain to your joints and in the process make your workout less exhausting.
• ViaFit allows you to track stats and progress, and studies show that people who track their stats are more likely to reach their fitness goals.
• Passport allows you to be more engaged in your exercise routine.   It is distracting, which is important when exercising.

The features listed above are why the Horizon Elite E7 elliptical trainer is going to be a major contender at the competitive $1,499 price range.  You may also want to check out the Horizon Elite E9 for upgraded features.

Go to www.HorizonFitness.com to learn more!

Interactive Technology & Ergonomically Designed for Less Stress to Your Joints

The Horizon Elite E9 elliptical trainer is their top model and it is loaded with features that offer a very rewarding cross-training experience.  In addition to the Six Star ergonomic specs, the Elite E9 is also equipped with ViaFit and Virtual Active, which are designed to track your progress, help you reach your fitness goal, and take the monotony out of exercising in place.

The complete package makes the Horizon Fitness Elite E9 elliptical trainer one of the top cross trainers at the $1,899 price range.  Horizon is produced by the same company that makes Vision Fitness and Matrix Fitness products.

Horizon Elite E9 Elliptical Trainer Mechanics

The Horizon Elite E9 is designed and engineered based on their Six Star Certification.  This is a series of features design to make your cross training workout very natural and ergonomic, and consequently less stressful to your joints and muscles.  These features include…

1. Smooth Momentum – The Elite E9 uses a large drive pulley ratio that results in a smooth and efficient elliptical motion.
2. Narrow Pedal Placement – The benefit of a front drive elliptical trainer is that typically the pedals are closer together.  Horizon places the pedals as close as possible on the Horizon Elite E9, which reduces stress to your hips.  Wide pedal separation can be particularly stressful to women.
3. Optimal Handlebar Spacing – Handlebars are at a 45 degree and are within easy reach.  They are positioned where you hands would naturally be on your side.
4. Straight Body Posture – Many front drive elliptical trainers tend to force you to lean forward because of the positioning of your body over the mechanism.  On the Horizon Elite E9 your body is in an upright posture that is more comfortable.
5. Natural Elliptical Stride – Rather than an oval, bouncy stride, you get a flatter elliptical pattern that mimics running or walking. Which is also less stressful to your joints and lower back.
6. Low Pedal Height – The pedals are easy to mount and dismount because of their low 10” height, that is in comparison to a rear drive elliptical that can be awkward to get on and off.

See a complete comparison chart of Horizon Ellipticals here.

Additional Mechanical Features Include

Power Incline –  Adjusting the incline allows you to change up your routine.  It also gives you a more intense cardio working and the ability to target different lower body muscles.

30 Lbs. Flywheel – This heavy flywheel guarantees a very smooth and natural elliptical motion.  You’ll how when you start it takes an effort to move the flywheel, and when you stop it takes a second or to for the motion to stop.

20” Stride Length – This is a standard stride length that can accommodate the majority of elliptical users.   If you are particularly short or tall you may want to consider a machine better suited to your height.

Console Features – You get speakers, MP3 input, reading rack and a bottle holder. The sound is adequate, which is what you should expect on a fitness equipment.

216 lbs. Machine Weight – Users will find the Horizon Elite E9 to be very stable, unless they happen to be a sumo wrestler.

Cushioned Pedals – The pedals have an arched cushion that that allows you foot to pivot naturally and is designed to reduce foot numbness.

Multi-Grip Handlebars – The Horizon Elite E9 comes with handlebars that have multiple grips so you can target different upper arm muscles.  You can also remove them if you prefer to exercise with the stationary grips and not the moving handlebars.

Warranty – The coverage is standard at this price range.

• Lifetime frame and motor
• Five years parts
• Two years labor

It should be noted that Horizon has some of the better customer service in the industry.

Horizon Elite E9 Technology

7” Touch Screen  Full Color Display – The vibrant colors are an improvement over the typical LCD displays.  It provides feedback on speed, time, distance, calories, RPM, resistance level, heart rate and watts.  It also will show videos from Virtual Active (See below).

ViaFit – The Horizon Elite E9 elliptical is equipped with Wi-Fi, and is able to download your stats to your online ViaFit account, allowing you to track your progress towards your fitness goals.  In addition, with the ViaFit account you can define fitness goals like number of workouts, calories burned, amount of time exercising or total distance and track your progress.

ViaFit also allows you to import fitness and nutritional stats from other popular apps, giving you a central resource to track data from numerous apps. Studies have shown that those individuals that track their progress are more likely to achieve their fitness goals. And in fact, tracking software, particularly on smartphones, is becoming very popular because it motivates people. It is the ability to converge all your fitness, health and nutritional data into one resource that makes ViaFit appealing. Horizon is the only company that offers this unique feature.

Virtual Active – Obviously running in place can be boring.  That is why so many people watch TV as they run.  Horizon offers another alternative, the ability to virtually run some of the most famous landscapes in the world.  The way Virtual Active works is that individuals with head cameras ran numerous famous locations.  You can call up one of these videos and simulate running the terrain.  Your speed will trigger the speed of the videos.  You can view these videos on the full color display. There are several other companies offering a similar technology and they are proving to be popular with users.

The Horizon Elite E9 comes with two Virtual Active videos.  Additional videos are available for an extra cost. New videos are being continually released.

Passport – Passport lets you show the Virtual Active videos on your big screen through the Passport box.  There is an additional cost for the Passport box and cables.

Our Review – Horizon Elite E9 Elliptical Trainer

At around $1,900 you should expect a cross trainer that provides a superior experience, and the Horizon Elite E9 elliptical trainer delivers just that. It combines ergonomic engineering with attractive interactive features designed to help you achieve your fitness goals.  In addition, you are getting an elliptical that will be low maintenance.  You only need to occasionally lubricate the rails.

With the Elite E9, Horizon has proven that it is a top contender in the residential cross-trainer industry.  If you like this model, you may want to also check out the Horizon Elite E7 for a slight variation on features and price.

To learn more, check out HorizonFitness.com.

Solid, Stable & Rugged – A Winning Combination!

GREAT 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. 

The Sole E95 ranks as one of the best values in the $1,500 – $2,000 price range. The E95 may not match the quality of a high-end and very expensive commercial elliptical like Life Fitness or Precor, but at less than half the price there are some features that match or exceed those machines.  And with the recent addition of Bluetooth technology that includes fitness tracking capability it is even better.  Read more about the technology in this article.

Sole ellipticals have an excellent reputation for being stable, durable and requiring low maintenance. The are also backed with industry leading warranties.

We were recently at the Sole corporate headquarters and gave the E95 a test run and found it gave a very rewarding cross-training experience, besides being rock solid.  We had a dialogue with the VP of Sales and Marketing, and he talked about the Sole philosophy — which is giving the highest quality at the best value. They appear to have succeeded with the Sole E95.

Team member Fred Waters personally owns a Sole elliptical, unfortunately not this high-end one, and over the last several years he has never had any mechanical issues.

Here is what Fred liked about the Sole E95 Elliptical…

• Bluetooth Working Tracking Capability–  The new Sole E95 now has Bluetooth capability so the machine can communicate workout stats to your smart device.  Simply download a free Sole Fitness app and you can begin tracking progress towards your goals.  This technology is also compatible with other fitness tracking apps you may already be using.
• Adjustable Power Incline — Having the ability to adjust the incline of the elliptical motion takes your crosstraining workout to a whole new level. It allows you to target specific lower body muscles like glutes and quads.
• 27 Lb. Flywheel — For a residential elliptical this is a heavy flywheel. The advantage of the extra weight is that it provides a more natural and smooth elliptical stride. You’ll notice when you start and stop that the motion gradually increases and slows down.
• Stable Dual Wheel Design — Most front drive elliptical trainers have single wheels that one along a rail. This can lead to a slight shifting and instability. The Sole E95 has two concave wheels that makes for a very solid motion.
• 20-22″ elliptical stride — When we tested the Sole ellipticals we were thoroughly impressed with long, smooth elliptical stride. It was how the elliptical should feel, and was similar to Precor and Life Fitness. You’ll find lesser priced machines have more of a circular motion, resulting in having to raise your knees higher.
• 20 resistance levels — Some ellipticals have less than 10 levels, and the resistance can be dramatic from one level to the next. Not the case when you have 20.
• New! Elongated Handlebars — The handlebars are designed to allow you to grip them at various positions. The benefit is that you can target different upper body muscles. A smart design.
• Includes Heart Rate Control —There are those who swear by heart rate control, and claim it optimizes their workout by letting their heart rate determine their level of exertion.
• Adjustable foot pedals — You can adjust the foot pedal to an exact angle with a worm screw. This can further reduce the strain to your feet and ankles. In addition, the pedals have a 2 degree tilt inward to add further comfort.
• The Sole E95 weighs a hefty 215 lbs —This heavy weight contributes to the stability and sturdiness. Important factor, especially for users that push their machines to the limit, or have a few extra pounds. You may want to consider inside delivery due to the weight.
• Handlebar Controls — You can control the resistance and the incline with switches on the moveable handlebars. That means you do not have to break your stride and mess with buttons on the console. A smart idea.
• 10.1″ TFT LCD Backlit Display — A 10.1″ TFT LCD display which simultaneously shows Speed, Incline, Time, Distance Traveled, Calories, Pulse and Pace. Included is a 1/4 mile track feature and a peak and valley graph. Also, the console tilts for optimum viewing based on your height.
• Generous Warranty — You get lifetime coverage on the incline motor, 5-years on the parts and 2-years service.
• 83″ Length – Although all of Soles elliptical trainers are very stable the E95 with an 83″ length is rock solid. The downside is it is a space hog.

The only real flaws in this otherwise flawless package are the speaker system and the fan. The sound is not quite up to the standards of some of the competitors, and the fan provides moderate relief.

Check out our comparison chart showing all of the Sole Elliptical models.

Fitness Source Sole E95 Elliptical Review

You can get a better machine, but not without paying considerably more money. As shown by all the features listed above this is a overall sweet package that is designed to give a rewarding cross-training experience. It is backed by a generous warranty that suggests the durability of this elliptical.

Equally important is the excellent reputation Sole has for standing behind their products. We have yet to receive a complaint about their customer service, and have only received one email referring to a problem with one of their treadmill. That is a strong endorsement.

If there is a complaint it’s the overall size of the E95. This elliptical is rather long and takes up considerable space, however the length and weight make it extremely stable and contribute to a solid feature.

Should I Purchase Direct from Sole or Dick’s Sporting Goods?

Recently, a customer sent this message to us which we felt beneficial for our readers.

We purchased a SOLE ELLIPTICAL E 95.

We have used a treadmill for years as will as a Total Gym.  My wife and I are in our late fifties and try to keep active.  Both of us have suffered feet problems having planter fasciitis.  We were instructed by our doctors to find a lower impact form of workouts.  We needed a device to allow us to get a good workout as well as keeping our feet flat.  We did our homework and decided an elliptical was the way to go. We visited several websites, read hundreds of reviews.  We went to several sporting good stores to get some actual hands on education.  We found that in the upper rated machines were from two leading manufactures.  At Dick’s sporting goods we tried the SOLE brand, they had only three on display, the E-35 and the E-55.  We very much like the design and the smoothness of them.  They were very well built and had a solid quality feel and look.  We liked the E-55, they only had the display model and it was filthy, besides the last thing I wanted was a floor model.  We asked if they would check the stores at other locations, he did but they would not come down on the price, and wanted a delivery charge, Dick’s is no longer on our list of further for shopping, they were all but rude, well its our money and we will part with it from a company that cares.  We visited the SOLE website and happy we did.  For not much more than Dick’s wanted for a dirty floor model we were able to purchase a SOLE E-95 ELLIPTICAL.  They offered this wonderful elliptical for $ 1,499.99, tax free and free shipping right to my door.  Within one day of my on-line purchase I received a call from SOLE to confirm my purchase and advise me that the shipping company would be in touch.  The same day I received that call from ABF Freight to set up delivery, four days after purchase it arrived at my door in Oklahoma.  Every person from SOLE as well as ABF were extremely nice and very professional.  The unit was well packed and took me about three hours to set up.  We are extremes impressed with this unit, it has more work out options then several we reviewed and the quality is outstanding.  The workouts are as easy or as hard as we will ever need or want.  We are totally sold on SOLE.

Thank you.
Please feel free to contact me and use this review.
Rodger Runyon
mrrdrunyon@att.net

Customer Reviews of the Sole E95 Elliptical Trainer

The Sole E95 has an average 4.5 rating out of 5 from customers on Amazon.com.

“My wife and I are very pleased with our Sole E95. Great workout, and very challenging with the different programs. Thanks for your info.” Randy

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“Well, it has now been about 4 months since we purchased the Sole E95 elliptical and there are absolutely no regrets. The solidity persists and you can just tell that this machine will last a very long time. Considering the reputation for reliability that Sole treadmills have established, I have absolutely no worries about the future and besides, there’s a solid warranty to cover us just in case. 2 years labor, 5 years electronics, and lifetime for the frame.”

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I ordered the Sole E95 directly from Sole and I am extremely pleased with the service and timely delivery.  I’ve had the elliptical for just over 30 days and it’s as good as everyone said it is.  The machine is extremely quiet and provides lots of options for workouts and the heart rate monitor is very beneficial for me.  I looked at a lot more expensive machines and several that were less expensive.  If I had it to do over again, I wouldn’t consider anything but a Sole.  The only question would be which one, the E35, the E55, or the E95.  I went to a retail store before purchasing from Sole and tried the E35 and the E95.  The E35 is very good but I’m glad I decided on the E95.  It’s extremely well built and I believe it will last me a long, long time and the additional cost spread over the years is small in comparison to the benefit.

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“I purchased the Sole E95 on September 27th of 2006. Delivery was right on target. (14 days) I purchased it directly from Sole for $1699. It took me about 1.5 hours to assemble. Not too bad considering I’m not experienced at building things. I purchased another unit several years back for about $600 which broke shortly thereafter and did not get much use from it. After researching many of the machines out there, I chose to purchase this one due to a couple of reviews and an outstanding warranty. (lifetime on frame, 5 years on parts and 2 years on labor). From the time I built it, I knew that it was a very solid piece of equipment. It is silky smooth and very quiet.”

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Solid construction, built to last

I purchased the top line model Sole E95 directly from soletreadmills.com. The main differences between the E35 and the E95 are a more full-featured control panel, adjustable foot pads, a shroud cover for the rear rails for better wheel control, and a heavier duty frame.

The heavier duty frame was important to me because I weigh 315 lbs. Some brands of ellipticals support only a 275 lb. user. The E35 holds 300 lbs. The E95 holds 400 lbs.

The service from Sole was fairly good. The semi-truck arrived with the E95 eight days after I ordered it. It arrived in two boxes. The heavy one was 230 lbs. Fortunately I had a little chrome chart that the driver and I used to wheel it into the garage.

You really cannot go wrong with any of the Sole ellipticals.

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The elliptical is bigger than most others, and very heavy.  On the highest 2 resistance settings, there is increased noise when using.  For some reason, even at level 1, the lowest setting, it has a lot of resistance to it.  This makes it very different from usual gym machines, much more difficult.

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Go to www.SoleEllipticals.com/E95 to learn more.*

Other Sole Elliptical Reviews:

.04

Most Durable Elliptical Trainer at $1,500

GREAT 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. 

The Sole E55 elliptical trainer is another example of why Sole has been a dominant player in the fitness equipment industry for years. Recently, this machine received an “Excellent” rating from a popular consumer magazine in the categories of Ease of Use, Construction, Heart Rate Features, and User Safety.

Sole’s focus is quality engineering combined with quality components. And they recently added Bluetooth capability so you can track your workout stats using the free Sole Fitness app. And research has shown that those who track their results are more likely to achieve their fitness goals.

The Sole E55 weighs in at nearly 200 lbs. The good news is it is sturdy and solid. The bad news is don’t plan on easily moving it around, particularly from one floor to another. Much of the weight is the heavy flywheel, which weighs a hefty 20 lbs. When combined with the eddy current brake system, you get a very smooth and fluid motion. The overall quality is evident when you stop the Sole E55 and it gradually slows down.

Features on the Sole E55

Besides the smooth elliptical motion, we like the 20″ stride length on this Sole Elliptical. Which is a perfect stride length for average to above average height individuals. It just feels more natural.

When you get on an elliptical with a smaller stride length you feel constrained and the motion is bouncy. To get the most reward out of your workout you want a comfortable stride. When it comes to the stride, the Sole E55 feels like a Precor elliptical. And that’s a HIGH compliment, because Precor makes premium machines that cost a pretty penny!  To further add to the comfort, the foot pedals are adjustable.

Another important feature on the Sole E55 is the dual wheels that ride on a beveled rail. This provides for a smooth and stable feel. Many elliptical trainers at this price range use single wheels per rail. The affect on the stability is evident. With the two wheel design you have no side-to-side motion.

Bluetooth Capability – This model comes with Bluetooth capability so you can track your workout stats on the free Sole Fitness app.  We like that Sole is joining the other brands with stat tracking technology.

Adjustable Power Incline – The Sole E55 elliptical comes with a power incline feature, allowing you to raise or lower the elliptical motion and better target and tone your lower muscles. As with a treadmill, when you increase the incline you get a serious cardio workout.

Other features worth noting are wireless heart rate control, speakers (With plug-in for MP3 and iPod players.) and built-in fan. It is also equipped with adjustable articulating foot pedals. You can adjust to the exact level for your comfort. This will reduce the need to lift you foot to the changing elliptical motion. It further reduces stress and strain to your feet and ankles.

20 lb. Flywheel — The advantage of a heavy flywheel is a more natural and smooth feeling elliptical stride. The motion starts and stops gradually with this machine.  It’s interesting to us that you can get a 25 lb flywheel on the E35 Elliptical.

Console – In 2011, Sole added a 7.5″ backlit LCD display to show your stats along with a 1/4 mile track graphic. The console tilts so you can view at an appropriate angle for your height.

Check out a comparison chart of all Sole Elliptical models.

Our Review – Sole E55 Elliptical Trainer

When purchasing an elliptical trainer you want a machine that is built to last, feels sturdy, and has a comfortable and natural elliptical motion. And you want those features without having to take out a second mortgage.

If you spend less than $1,000 you are buying a machine that compromises on the quality, and generally cannot withstand strenuous use. In contrast, you do not need a commercial grade elliptical to get a quality machine. The E55 elliptical is a heavy-duty cross-trainer without the heavy-duty price.

Are there better elliptical trainers? Of course. Precor and the Life Fitness ellipticals are impressive machines, but they cost at least a couple of thousand more than a Sole.

The Sole E55 is one of the best machines in the $1,500 price range. It is a value proposition when you factor the features, the quality, and the warranty.

The Sole E55 elliptical trainer comes with the best warranty available – period. As mentioned it is 5-years parts and 2-years labor coverage. In comparison, a pricey Life Fitness elliptical only offers a 3 year parts and 1 year labor warranty. Sole also has a solid reputation for standing behind their products. We often get feedback about the customer service of various fitness equipment companies, and we have never received a complaint about this model.

Customer Review

A Best Buy! You Won’t Find a Better Elliptical at this Price Range

GREAT 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. 

One of the main reasons you want to seriously consider the Sole Elliptical E35 is its all about reliability and quality. For the price you are not going to find a more low maintenance cross-trainer. Team member Fred Waters has personally owned a Sole elliptical for over 8 years, and other than occasionally lubricating the railings, he has had NO problems.

There are other factors that make the Sole Elliptical E35 a “Best Buy” including the stability, ergonomic features and the challenging workout.  This most recently released model has Bluetooth capability and an upgraded console.  The elliptical is able to communicate with your smart device with the help of a free Sole app.

Check out our Team Member Review of the Sole E35

At the Sole Headquarters

We tested the Sole Elliptical E35 at their corporate offices and for a mid-priced elliptical it has a very smooth elliptical motion. That is partially due to the heavy 25 lb. flywheel that provides a comfortable and natural stride. It’s also very quiet if you keep the railings lubed. In the past we have tested it side by side with several Horizon and ProForm models and the difference in stability and noise level was dramatic.

Note: The Sole Elliptical E35 was rated “Best buy” from a popular consumer magazines whose name we cannot mention. In their review they gave it an “Excellent” for construction and exercise range.

Features of the Sole Elliptical E35

• Bluetooth Capability – The recently upgraded version of the Sole E35 comes with Bluetooth capability.  The machine is able to communicate with your smart device via a FREE Sole Fitness app.  Track your workout stats to help you make better progress to your goals.
• It’s a Hefty 231 lbs – The Sole Elliptical E35 is a heavy piece of equipment with dual wheels that run along the railing, giving it a solid and stable feel. In addition, the 71″ length adds further to the stability. The downside is this elliptical takes up considerable space.
  Note: Standard delivery is to the curb. Sometimes they will back into your driveway, but not always. Either plan to have some strong individuals to move it indoors, or go for the optional inside delivery.
• Power Incline – The Sole Elliptical E35 comes with a power incline feature, allowing you better target and tone various lower muscles. It also gives you an increased cardio burn and feels like hiking up a hill.
• Long Smooth 20″-22″ Stride Length – We found the 20″-22″ stride to be smooth and comfortable. If you are under 5’5″ you may want to consider a machine with with a smaller stride. However, this is an ideal stride length for average to above average users.The stride is elongated, which is what you want with an elliptical. Cheaper units will often have an 18″ stride with a flywheel weighing considerably less. The result is a choppy circular motion that requires lifting your knees. It’s not as comfortable and consequently you’ll probably exercise less and getting fewer results.
• Adjustable Foot pedals- To add to your comfort level the Sole Elliptical E35 is designed with articulating foot pedals. They angle with the elliptical motion. To increase your comfort level, you can manually make further adjustments to the angle of the pedals. If you have flat feet or higher arches, you can adjust the pedals to an ideal angle that will further reduce stress and potential numbness.
• Console and Display– The Sole Elliptical E35 comes with 10 programs, for a variety of challenges. There are 6 installed programs, 2 user defined programs and 2 heart rate programs.Included in the console are built-in speakers and a plug-in for a MP3 or iPod player. The sound won’t impress audiophiles, but it is nice having the apex efficiently directed to you. There is also a small fan that provides moderate relief. You get a 7.5″ white backlit LCD display which simultaneously shows Speed, Incline, Time, Distance Traveled, Calories, Pulse and Pace.

Included is a 1/4 mile track feature and a peak and valley graph so you can visualize your progress. Also, the console tilts for optimum viewing based on your height.There are also 20 levels of resistance, making the switch from one level to the next marginal. This allows you to make small incremental adjustments. A feature that we really like is resistance and incline controls located on the moveable handlebars. When you want to make adjustments you don’t have to break your stride and hit buttons on the console.

• Multi-Position Handlebars – We’re not sure why more manufacturers do not offer this feature. With the extended handlebars you can change the positions of the upper body workout, thus allowing you to target more upper body muscles.

Check out our comparison chart of all Sole Elliptical models.

Our Complete Elliptical Review – Sole Elliptical E35

When we last visited Dick’s Sporting Goods, they carried Sole, Horizon and ProForm elliptical trainers. We asked the salesperson which was the best seller. Without hesitation he said Sole. When we asked why, his response was “the quality blows away the competition”.  This updated model with its Bluetooth capability elevates our opinion of the E35 even more. Many other brands have incorporated workout stat tracking into their machines and we’re am happy to see that Sole Fitness is joining in.

We feel this elliptical is one of the best buys in the $1,000-$1,500 range. If you are not all that familiar with the name Sole, their treadmills are used for in-room workouts in the Hilton chain, which says something about their durability. In general, their machines are built to last. We have yet to have a complaint about this machine, meanwhile we have had numerous positive reviews sent from customers.

Customer Sole Elliptical E35 Reviews

The Sole E35 received 4.5 stars out of 5 from over 47 customers on Amazon.com

Great elliptical, especially for the price!

Go to www.SoleEllipticals.com to learn more.

Note: In this review of the Sole E35 we attempt to be as concise as possible with features and pricing. The manufacturer may change either without notification. Please go to the manufacturer’s web site for the latest details.

Provides an Efficient Workout

I actually own a BodyCraft Galena Pro Home Gym and use it regularly.  I bought it about ten years ago when I worked for Smooth Fitness.  Smooth used to private label several BodyCraft strength machines.  So I can give you my first-hand experience.

What I like about my BodyCraft Galena Pro…

Convenience — You’ve got the ability to target and workout just about every part of your body in one machine, which means to can avoid the costly expense of a gym membership.   Included in the three stations are the following functions…

• Chest Press
• Dual-Function Pec Deck
• Leg Extension
• Leg Curl
• Lat Pull
• Low Pulley Station
• Abdominal Crunch
• Leg Press (Optional)

It is simple to access countless exercises by making easy adjustments to the weight stack. You don’t have to hassle with adding and removing weights.  I complete 15 reps in about 30 minutes, which also allows for time to catch my breath.

In addition, you get up to 200 lbs. of stackable weights. Unless you are a serious power lifter you’re not going to max out.

Adjustable Comfort — You can adjust both the seat and the back, which are made with heavy gauge vinyl.  Being able to adjust the seats and back allows for a wide range of user heights.

Sturdy Construction — The Galena Pro is built like a tank, weighing in at 500 lbs.  BodyCraft uses 2″ x 3″ and 2″ x 2″ heavy gauge steel tubing.  They also use 2000 lbs. tensile strength cable and fiberglass reinforced nylon pulleys with sealed bears.  In the tens years I’ve had this machine I’ve only had to replace one cable.  Regarding maintenance, occasionally I have to lubricate the poles that the weights ride on.

Space Saving Design — The BodyCraft Galena Pro is designed to conveniently fit in a corner of a room.

Safety — The advantage of a weight machine is that you have controlled action, unlike free weights.  You don’t need a spotter.

Lifetime Warranty — To reinforce how heavy duty this machine is, they back it with a lifetime warranty.  In fact, I called to get a replacement cable and it was overnighted to me free of charge.  I did not expect that.

The BodyCraft Galena Pro Home Gym Cons…

Assembly — This machine is a bear to put together.  Allow about half a day and during parts of the assembly plan you’ll need a second person to assist.  When I recently moved,  the part of the move I dreaded the most was disassembling and reassembling the home gym.  However, I did break it down in parts to make it easier.

Takes Up Space — Even with the convenient corner design, the Galena Pro still takes up sufficient space in comparison to some of the compact Bowflex machines.  However, there is no comparison to the quality of the workout.

Our Review – BodyCraft Galena Pro Home Gym

I love my Galena Pro, and would not trade it for another home gym.  It gives me an efficient workout that tones all parts of my upper and lower body.  My only criticism is the difficulty with the assembly and the amount of space it takes up, but those are minor sacrifices to get a superior workout. However, when I retire and move to a cabana on a tropical island the Gelena Pro will probably be left behind, much to my regrets.

To learn more go to www.Amazon.com

A Weak Attempt at a Hybrid Exercise Bike and Elliptical

Several manufacturers have tried to create a hybrid exercise bike and elliptical trainer.  The Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle is the weakest attempt.  This is a poor excuse for an exercise and a worse excuse for an elliptical trainer.  The only thing it has going for it is the very low price.  I tried one at a Academy Sports, and my first impression was, “how could anyone exercise on this machine for a sustained period of time.”

Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle Pros

The Bargain Price – The Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle sells for between $150-$200.  Many people who have good intentions in getting back into shape and losing weight, but most doubt their sincerity.  So in makes sense that they want to minimize their financial risk.

Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle Cons (And there are a lot)

Hybrid Machine – The idea of a hybrid exercise bike/elliptical trainer has some appeal.  With the elliptical function you can exercise both your upper and lower body.  When you get tired you can sit down and use the exercise bike feature.  In theory it sounds appealing, but the reality is an exercise bike and an elliptical trainer do not mesh.

Light Weight and Unstable –  Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle weighs only 86 lbs and has a very short 50” base.  It doesn’t take much effort to rock this machine.  I would suggest that if you are very overweight using this machine could be potentially dangerous.

Ridiculously Small Stride Length – The stride length is 12”.  Think about it, your motion is only 12”.  If you have ever used an elliptical trainer in a fitness center it was probably between 20”-22”.  I am 5’8” and find less than 20” confining.   The small stride length alone makes the Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle very impractical.

Light Weight Flywheel – On a decent elliptical trainer or exercise bike you will find the motion is very smooth and natural because of the weight of the flywheel.   On the Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle the motion is very  jerky and unnatural.

Uncomfortable Exercise Bike –  I was amazed that when using the exercise bike there were no handles attached to the seat.  That is standard on most exercise bikes.  So to stabilize yourself you had to lean forward and hold on to the stationary handles.  Also the pedals are like elliptical pedals and that make it weird pedaling on this machine.

Cheap Components – When you are spending under $200 for an exercise machine you can expect that they compromised on the engineering of the components.  You can expect the Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle to have a limited life.  In fact the warranty is a year, but they say it is limited.  I’m sure there is some fine print that “limits” utilizing the warranty.

Final Thoughts – Try a real exercise bike and elliptical trainer and compare to the Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle and see for yourself why this machine does not cut it as either.

Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle Specs

Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year limited
Requires Batteries
Product Length (in.): 49.8
Product Width (in.):  28.74
Display: 5 in. LCD
Maximum Weight Capacity (lb.):  250 lbs
Stride Length (in.): 12”
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
Number of Resistance Levels:  8
Product Weight (lb.):  85.98

Note: With the Body Champ Deluxe 2-in-1 Stride Cycle Review I try to be as accurate as possible. Pricing, features and components may change. Check the Body Champ web site for the latest details.

An Elliptical and Exercise Bike…In One?

The Body Champ BRM3671 Dual Trainer initially sounds appealing.  For only $250 you can get a dual purpose machine that is both an elliptical trainer and an exercise bike.  But before you pull out your credit card you need to take a hard look and determine if combining two very different exercise machines makes sense.

Drawbacks to the Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer…

Ellipticals and Exercise Bikes are Not Compatible – An exercise bike has a circular  motion, and elliptical trainer has an elliptical motion.  Trying to combine the two motions results in neither being up to par.  The Body Champ BRM3671 doesn’t cut it either way.

14” Stride Length — Even your cheapest elliptical trainers have a 16” stride length.  A more typical stride length is 20”.  Why do you want a longer stride length?  So you have a motion that is similar to running in the air.  A 14” stride length results in a very choppy and bouncy motion.  One that is not optimal for giving you the benefits that typically come from an elliptical trainer.

Lightweight Flywheel — If you have ever used an elliptical trainer in a health club, you will notice how the motion gradually starts and stops.  Giving it a smooth and natural feel.  Although they do not give the actual weight, I imagine the flywheel is around 10 lbs.  The Sole F63 elliptical, which I own, has a 25 lb. flywheel, and they get even heavier on more expensive models.

Bargain Price Means Cheap Components— The Body Champ BRM3671 Dual Trainer sells for $250 with free shipping on Amazon.  Now the shipping has got to be at least $30, and of course, both Body Champ and Amazon need to make a profit.  So what is left to spend on components and quality engineering?  Zilch!  And cheap quality of this machine is reflected in the 90-day parts and labor warranty.

90 Lbs. Unit Weight — 90 lbs. is lightweight for an exercise bike where you are sitting down and there is minimal movement.  Only 90 lbs. is scary for an elliptical trainer. One of my guidelines for buying an elliptical trainer is that it should not weigh less than the user.  With the dual upper and lower body motion you need a solid and stable machine to avoid rocking and bouncing.  Also factor in that the Body Champ BRM3671 is only 38.5 x 24 x 12.7 inches.  It has a very small footprint that also decreases the stability.

Customer Review – Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer Review

There are over 175 customer reviews on Amazon, and that suggests the Body Champ BRM3671 Dual Trainer is a popular machine.  There are a number of very positive reviews, but also some very negative feedback.   If you are serious about the Body Champ, realize it is not for everyone.  In fact, it specially is not for very tall or overweight individuals. It is for moderate height and weight people who will use it for moderate workouts.

My recommendation is you spend more money and get either an exercise bike or an elliptical trainer.  I suggest spending a minimum of $600.  However, if that is out of your budget range, you could end up being very satisfied with the Body Champ BRM3671 Dual Trainer, like so many customers on Amazon.  I know I wouldn’t be.

High Marks for Quality Construction

The Xterra FS5.25E elliptical trainer is a private labeled crosstrainer, built by Dyaco.  This is the same company that builds Sole and Spirit elliptical trainers, and both these brands have a good reputation for quality and durability.  The Xterra FS5.25E is the entry level model of the Xterra brand.  There are two other models.

See my “Best Buy” Elliptical Trainer Recommendations!

Xterra FS5.25E Elliptical Trainer Features…

Front Drive Design – The benefits of the front drive is that it is easier to mount and dismount.  However, the rear drive models tend to position you better over the mechanisms.  I find when working out on the Sole E25, which is very similar, you have to lean forward when utilizing the upper handlebars.

Incline Capable – You have the ability to incline the elliptical motion, similar to a treadmill.  The advantage is that you can target more lower body muscles.  You also tend to get a more intense workout as you raise the incline. A major drawback to the Xterra FS5.25E is that you have to change the incline manually.  Thus you are not able to make adjustments on the fly as you workout.  You also are only able to adjust to three levels.

Dual Wheel Footpedals – What I do like about the front drive design on the Xterra and Sole elliptical trainers is that they utilize a dual concave wheel for each footpedals.  Each pedal rolls over a dual set of rails.  This provides a more solid and stable feel to your stride.

19 Lbs. Flywheel – A decent weight for an elliptical at this price range.  However, you will notice that more expensive ellipticals with heavier flywheels tend to feel more natural.

Speakers and MP3 Input – It is convenient to have speakers in the console, but I’m not that impressed with the sound.  Dyaco tends to cheap out on the speaker system.

236 Lbs. Unit Weight – A decent weight for a $999 elliptical.  The Xterra FS5.25S has a fairly stable feel, and it takes some effort to make it rock.

Console – As one reviewer on the Costco site mentioned, the LCD display is rather basic, and you would expect more with Weekend electronics.  There is a moderate selection of installed workout programs.   Although I tend to always use the manual control.

Warranty – Lifetime frame and braking system, 3-years parts and 1-year labor.  Fairly standard coverage at this price range.

Our Review – Xterra FS5.25S Elliptical Trainer

I give the Xterra FS5.25S high marks for being a well built machine, utilizing quality components.  In fact, based on the quality I would say both the Xterra FX5.25 and the Sole E25 are some of the best front drive ellipticals at $999.  I’m not that impressed with features like the speaker system, console and the manual incline.

Also I suggest  you consider a rear drive elliptical trainer alternative, like the NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE71.  The basic design of the AudioStrider  is based on the design of commercial Precor ellipticals.  In fact, NordicTrack leases the patent.  The rear design tends to better center you over the machine and is more ergonomic.  You also get a power incline with the AudioStrider.

Also see the Xterra FS5.7e elliptical review.

A Stationary Bike That Provides an Upper Body Workout

The concept behind the Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 Elliptical Trainer is intriguing.  You have a stationary bicycle that also provides an upper body workout, similar to an elliptical trainer.  And for many, what is also attractive is the budget price.

The Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 has similar advantages to an elliptical trainer.  First, because your legs move in an oval motion and never leave the foot pedals, you minimize the impact to your lower body.  Consequently, there is minimal stress to your ankles, knees, and lower back.  When you run or walk, with every step there is shock to your body. An elliptical trainer or exercise bike allows you to avoid most of that impact.

In addition,  with the Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 you have the benefit of the upper body workout.  Obviously, the upper body workout allows you to target certain upper body muscles.  Although, the other benefit is when you exercise both your upper and lower body simultaneously you get a more efficient cardio workout.

How Does the Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 compare with a Standard Elliptical Trainer?

Some people find an elliptical trainer awkward to use.  The advantage with the Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 is that it is as simple as pedaling a bike. Also, it accommodates individuals that for medical reasons or injuries, may require exercising in a seated position. However, exercising while sitting reduces the resistance on your legs and consequently, reduces the overall benefits of toning and strengthening your lower body muscles.

Another drawback to the Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 is the positioning of the handlebars.  With a standard elliptical trainer you tend to have the handlebars strategically positioned in front and close to your upper torso.  The positioning of the upper handlebars tends to be a reach on the 2-in-1.

Unit Weight – One of the major drawbacks of the Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 is the unit weight, at only 64 lbs.  You can expect it not to be all that stable.  In fact, the user weight limit of 250 lbs, I feel, is very high.  You will find that when you push this machine it will not have a solid feel.

Difficult to Assemble – A number of Confidence Fitness 2-in-1 elliptical trainer customers complained about the complexity of assembling the machine.  Be prepared for some frustration.

Cheap is Cheap – The 2-in-1 is bargain cheap, and that means the quality and durability will be compromised.  In addition it won’t have the smooth motion you will find in more expensive exercise bikes.

Our Review – Confidence Fitness 2-in-1

I cannot comfortably recommend the Confidence Fitness elliptical for the reasons mentioned above.  I feel you are better off with a more expensive elliptical trainer or exercise bike.  That doesn’t mean there are not satisfied customers.  On Amazon there were 113 customer reviews.  Out of that more than half gave a 4 or 5 star rating.  So many feel they got their money’s worth.