Elliptical trainers have become one of the most popular pieces of stationary cardio equipment since they hit the market in the mid-1990s. They offer the same motion as running, yet without the impact, therefore lessening the stress on the joints and reducing the potential for running injuries. Ellipticaltrainers.com reports that users are able to burn the same number of calories working out on an elliptical as they are by running on a treadmill. As demand and technology increase, elliptical trainers have become more affordable and durable, making them a valuable addition to any home gym.
Smooth CE 3.6
Fitness professionals favor Smooth ellipticals for their "walking on air" feel and ride. Allellipticals.com gave Smooth high marks for their combination of affordable prices, durability and extensive features. Smooth keeps their prices 20 to 30 percent below retail by selling their products online and reducing the need for a middleman. One of Allellipticals.com's favorites in the Smooth line is the CE 3.6, which they feel is an outstanding value at $1,200. Included in that price is 18-inch stride length, 16 intensity levels, Polar Wireless heart-rate sensors, pulse sensors on the handlebars, ipod docking station with speakers, egonomic pivoting pedals, adjustable fan and workouts targeted to either calories, distance or time, with a total of 50 different programs to prevent boredom.
Sole E25 elliptical trainer
Sole started out as a treadmill manufacturer but added elliptical trainers to its line about eight years ago. Allellipticals.com is a fan of Sole products for the high quality and durability that goes into each machine. For ellipticals, they recommend the Sole E25, which they feel at around $1,000 is an excellent value for what you get. Allellipticals.com reports that personal trainers are fond of Sole's high gear ratio and large flywheel and they state that the engineering on this machine is comparable to elite models. The foot pedals were designed by a sports trainer and physical therapist to prevent injuries to your ankles, hips and knees. Other features include 16 resistance levels, six pre-set programs, LCD display, iFit technology, heart-rate monitor, upper body workout and reverse motion--and the machine can handle users weighing up to 300 lbs.
Eclipse 2100
Eclipse prides itself on selling made-in-America products. Their elliptical trainers range from approximately $350 to $750 and Allellipticals.com reports that they offer extraordinary value, usually not found at this low price level. The 2100 is described as "professional toughness in an at home design" and sells for approximately $500. Allellipticals.com states that personal trainers found the machine to be rugged and reliable--a good value. They also report that the 2100 is quiet, has a sleek design, has handgrip heart-monitoring system and an LCD console that displays all of the basic information like speed, time, calories burned and pulse.
Member Comments