When all is said and done, the best elliptical trainer is the one that you like enough to use regularly. But if you've never exercised regularly before, or if you're not used to elliptical trainers, it's hard to know what will still be enjoyable and useful a few years down the line. If you take the time to spot key features and aspects of a quality elliptical trainer, and invest some money in one that will last, you can pick out a quiet, sturdy, machine that fits your body well.
Resistance
The best resistance system available for elliptical trainers is eddy current braking or eddy current resistance. With eddy current braking, an electromagnet positioned near the elliptical's flywheel controls resistance. The more current flows through the magnet, the more resistance you pedal against. The absence of moving parts means that eddy current resistance is quiet and less prone to breakdowns than other types of elliptical resistance.
Stride Length
Stride length is one of the greatest determiners in how an elliptical trainer will feel beneath you. In general, the longer the stride length, the smoother the elliptical's motion will be. Longer stride lengths also accommodate taller users. The Exercise Equipment Expert elliptical buying guide recommends a minimum 18-inch stride length. But the only way to be sure an elliptical stride length will suit you is to try the machine out. Three brands or models of elliptical trainers, each with an 18-inch stride length, may all feel different.
Stability
Some manufacturers pack their elliptical trainers full of impressive features to hide serious flaws like a flimsy frame. If a manufacturer is willing to skimp on the frame, there may be corners cut in other essential systems, too, such as the resistance mechanism. So look for an elliptical trainer with a solid, sturdy steel frame that feels like it can stand up to the constant vibration of frequent workouts.
Features
You'll encounter the occasional elliptical with unusual features, such as interactive games you can play while pedaling--the harder you pedal, the easier it is to win the games. But the most useful features have become fairly standard on mid-range and high-end elliptical trainers. These include hand-grip heart rate monitors, built-in speakers and a dock for your MP3 player, pre-programmed workouts, compatibility with wireless heart rate monitors and programs that automatically adjust the elliptical resistance to keep you within a set target heart rate range.
Cost
As of August 2010, expect to spend $1,000 or more for a high-quality elliptical trainer with useful features that will last for years of regular use. You can purchase a decent, if basic, elliptical trainer starting in the $500 to $600 price range. Look for ellipticals that have a bare minimum of one year of parts and labor coverage and, ideally, a lifetime frame warranty.
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