| Brand: | ProForm |
| Expert Rating: |  |
Elliptical Trainer & Recumbent Bike in One at a Value Price!
ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
Heidi Powell, co-host of ABC’s Extreme Weight Loss TV show loves this machine! She posted on her Facebook page:
“Hands down, one of the best things Chris and I did in our home was create a home gym. They don’t have to be extravagant or expensive…just effective! Building a home gym is super helpful when you’re trying to be consistent in your exercise habits and achieving your fitness goals. Bonus: The kiddos learn by example!!! While dumbbells, bands, and kettle bells are space efficient, cardio equipment can be tough to fit in. This is why we especially love the ProForm Hybrid Trainer… it doesn’t take up a lot of space, it’s 2 machines in 1, and everyone in our family can use it!!”
Our original review of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT was not that positive until we recently talked to the company. They informed me that, “The Hybrid is selling like crazy and is ProForm’s #1 seller.” Now — we tend to be a fitness equipment snobs — and seldom endorse fitness equipment under $700. There are two reasons…
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is available for just $649, or pay as little as $17/month with 0% financing for up to 39 months.
So how does this relate to our review of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT? Well the Hybrid Trainer typically sells for under $600, and that is getting you into the budget category, and inherently there has to be some compromises on the quality of the components and engineer to reach that price point. For example, you need to notice that the warranty on this machine is only 5 year frame and 90 day parts/labor. That is certainly less than ideal, but doesn’t seem to be stopping buyers from purchasing the machine.
A significant portion of fitness equipment customers do not have a wad of cash to spend. And so with what little money they have, they are looking for the best value. In addition they want a machine that can help them get into shape and lose weight.
From the feedback of customers it is obvious that besides the low price they find the hybrid nature of the machine appealing. Although by trying to combine two exercise machines into one, there are some compromises.
Low Price – While this was initially a “turn off” for us, there are some advantages to this low price. It gives buyers an inexpensive fitness equipment option with multiple ways to workout.
iFit Enabled – Just like the other ProForm machines, the Hybrid Trainer XT has the iFit programming. This allows users to create an online iFit profile where they can set goals, track workouts, and even download a customized and progressive workout plan tailored towards their goals. iFit also lets you sync to Google Maps so you can exercise on virtual routes around the globe. To read more about the benefits of iFit, check out this article.
Hybrid Machine Works as an Elliptical and Bike – This machine will give you two ways to workout on just one inexpensive machine. Read more about how it works for each configuration below…
Console on the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
First, you have a small 15″ elliptical stride. More expensive ellipticals generally have a minimum 18″ stride. One of our team members, Fred Waters, is 5’8″ and is most comfortable with a 20″ stride length. With a 15″ stride length you are going to have more of an oval stride rather than elliptical. We do like the fact that you can adjust the pedals to the angle that is most comfortable to you.
Though they do not give flywheel weight, you can assume that it is rather lightweight, which will also compromise the quality of the elliptical motion.
Second, this is not a very heavy machine, which is to be expected at this price range. The light weight is not an issue in the recumbent bike mode, but as an elliptical you may have some stability issues for overweight individuals. They suggest a 350 lbs. user weight limit, but we would put it at around 230 lbs.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
As a recumbent bike the Hybrid Trainer XT seems to work well, and is probably comparable to other exercise bikes in this price range. In fact, we would say that the Hybrid Trainer XT is basically a recumbent bike that also allows you to cross train.
The most appealing aspect of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is the range of use. You are able to get a cardio workout in a sitting position, or you can get a dual, lower and upper body workout in the elliptical mode. This allows you to not only burn calories but exercise numerous muscle groups.
Once again, realize this is a budget machine and the quality is not what you will find in a health club. We would recommend the Hybrid Trainer XT for moderate exercisers, not workout fanatics.
That said, the Hybrid Trainer XT appears to be a success with customers and it may be the answer to your fitness needs.
Learn more at www.ProForm.com/Ellipticals.
Does this machine fold up?
Hi Jessica. No