Elliptical machines are commonly found in public and private gyms and fitness clubs, as well as in private homes. To work out on an elliptical, you pedal two footplates in an oval or elliptical motion, while pulling and pushing on arm attachments for a full-body workout. Elliptical models may be front- or rear-drive, and each type has advantages and disadvantages.
Action
The action on the front-drive elliptical machine may be different from on a rear-drive model. Because of the placement of the front-drive apparatus, the stride length on a front-drive elliptical may be shorter than on a rear-drive model. This leads to more of a shuffling motion as you work out on an elliptical with front drive -- the action may feel more like a stair-step machine than a rear-drive elliptical.
Sturdiness
On a front-drive elliptical machine, you will likely position your weight farther forward than you would on a rear-drive machine because of the distance between the driving mechanism and the pedal footplates. The All Ellipticals website cautions that this forward weighting can destabilize lightweight front-drive ellipticals, particularly if you lean on the front bars of the machine with your weight placed forward. Front-drive ellipticals may wobble unless the front of the machine is suitably heavy to offset the user's weight.
Variables
Add an adjustable incline system to a rear-drive elliptical machine with an angle ramp at the front of the elliptical machine. Front-drive machines have the flywheel at the front, taking up the space where such an angle ramp would be placed. As a result, rear-drive machines might be preferable if it is important for you to be able to adjust the incline of your elliptical action during a workout.
Cost
In general, front-drive ellipticals are slightly cheaper to make than rear-drive. The cheapest elliptical machines on the market are typically front-drive models. However, some companies, such as Sole, offer high-end front-drive ellipticals that can compete with rear-drive models in terms of stability, sturdiness and price. If you want a low-cost elliptical machine for simple workouts at home, a front-drive model can offer you greater value for your money.
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