What To Look For
It is important to try out different elliptical machines for several minutes each to find the one that gives you the intensity of workout you're looking for and has features that will inspire you to continue using it in the future. Make sure the machine is a good ergonomic fit for your body, causing no discomfort to your knees or hip joints during continued use. Also, test to be certain your knees move freely on the equipment and that you can stand upright while utilizing the moving handgrips. Look for a machine that comes with a two or three year warranty on moving parts and one year on labor.
Common Pitfalls
An elliptical tends to be as large as a sofa and too heavy to easily move around. Determine in advance how big of a permanent space you can devote to the machine in your home factoring in the added space you'll need to get on and off the equipment. Most ellipticals come with eye-catching extra features, but think about whether or not you would actually use them before you pay the extra cost to have them on your new machine. Make sure to purchase a machine that allows you to adjust the resistance level or workout intensity so your workout will continue to be challenging for you in the future.
Where To Buy
Budget and mid-priced elliptical exercise machines are available at department stores such as Sears and Wal-Mart, as well as sporting goods stores. Moderately priced and expensive brands are sold in specialty sporting goods stores. Beware of buying on-line or from a television infomercial promising a 30-day free trial, as consumer complaints of excessively high return shopping costs and lack of a valid return address are common.
Cost
With a budget of $600 to $900, you can purchase the Schwinn 420 or the Xterra FS220e models, both of which are rated as best buys by Consumer Reports. Models in this price range tend to be less stable than their more expensive counterparts and more prone to the need for future repairs. The Sole E35 and Spirit XE295 models are well built and offer a range of exercise options for around $1,300 to $1,400. The Diamondback Fitness 1260 Ef, which retails for about $2,600, is recommended by Consumer Reports and highly rated for its construction, features, safety and ease of use.
Comparison Shopping
Some form of heart rate monitor is generally included on your elliptical to ensure you don't overexert yourself while using the machine. It is worth the extra expense to purchase a machine with a chest-strap monitor, which gives you a free range of motion when exercising while still keeping tabs on your heartbeat. Machines without chest-strap monitors require you to constantly grip a contact point and tend to impede your natural stride, restricting your overall exercise benefit.
References
- Consumer Reports Health: How to Buy an Elliptical
- "Consumer Reports"; Get Fit in 2010 -- Best Ellipticals; May 2010
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