The Brands of Ellipticals

Elliptical machines offer an effective low-impact alternative to exercising on treadmills, as these machines put less stress on knees, hips and back, yet still provide a full-body workout. There's no shortage of elliptical machine manufacturers out there, including ProFrom, Schwinn, Stamina, Gold's Gym, Sunny Health and Fitness, Sole, Horizon, NordicTrack, Precor, Smooth and Reebok. Product information and prices listed are current as of March 2011.

Gazelle

The Gazelle Glider is one of the most popular consumer choices, according to Google Shopping and Amazon.com. The Gazelle is a modified elliptical machine that works both your upper and lower body. It's available at several different price points, starting at about $100 for the base model. The Gazelle is endorsed by personal trainer and TV personality Tony Little.

Schwinn

Schwinn is a leading manufacturer of all types of cardio machines, including ellipticals. It is actually a division of Nautilus, which has manufactured all types of fitness equipment since 1986. Schwinn currently makes the 420, 460, 431 and A40 models. They are designed primarily for residential use, and range in price from about $400 to $1,000.

ProForm

ProForm manufacturers a variety of residential and commercial elliptical trainers. The company started out as a treadmill manufacturer and evolved into a one-stop-shop for all types of cardio machines. According to Google Shopping, ProForm's top-selling residential elliptical is the 10.0 ZE, priced at about $600.

NordicTrack

NordicTrack began in the 1980s with the production of its famous ski machines, which were a lot like today's elliptical machines in many ways. During the next 10 years, NordicTrack made other types of cardio machines, including ellipticals. Many of NordicTrack's elliptical machines offer iFit compatibility, meaning you can connect them to the Internet to find personalized workouts. Google Shopping calls the NordicTrack Audiostrider 990 Pro a "Best Buy" at about $650.

Sole

Sole elliptical trainers typically fall within the $1,000 or higher price range. They are commercial-grade elliptical machines often found in hotels and fitness clubs. Sole originally started out producing treadmills exclusively but now also make elliptical machines. Its 2011 lineup includes the E25, E35, E55 and E95 -- ranging in price from $1,000 to $1,700. Each model features a lifetime frame warranty and 20-inch stride length for a more comfortable ride.