If you are serious about exercising, experts agree that you should concentrate your elliptical search on machines costing more than $1,000. Although cheaper ellipticals may seem like a good deal, testing shows that they can only hold up to light use. If you want a cheap machine for an occasional workout, sub-$1,000 elliptical trainers can be a decent choice as long as you keep your expectations in check. Reviews recommend looking for the following when purchasing an elliptical trainer:

  • Experts say you should try out exercise equipment in the store before buying. This will help you evaluate the quality and sturdiness of the elliptical trainer. Does it wobble or shake while you exercise? Does the stride length feel comfortable? Does the pedal spacing feel natural? These are important questions to answer before you invest your money in an elliptical trainer.
  • Make sure that the elliptical trainer is stable and that its motion is fluid and quiet. An elliptical trainer should never feel wobbly or jerky; some budget machines have been reported to shimmy across the floor during use. Make a note of any rattles, squeaks or other noises; this is usually not a good sign.
  • The pedals should be comfortable, with a nonslip design. They should also provide a natural stance, meaning that they aren't too wide or too narrow.
  • Check the comfort of the handlebars. Handlebars should be ergonomic for correct posture and comfortably placed so you don't bump into them. Movable handles should glide back and forth smoothly.
  • Look for a machine with programmed and manual courses, as well as dual-direction movement (forward and backward) to accommodate your changing workout needs.
  • Most elliptical trainers offer varied resistance; make sure this is easy to adjust (either electronically or manually). Most experts prefer machines with an elevated incline, while others say increasing resistance and speed is just as effective. Keep in mind that some inexpensive elliptical trainers don't have an adjustable incline.
  • Make sure the display is easy to read and provides the information you're looking for. Most displays show speed, time and distance, but you may also want to see calories burned per hour, degree of incline or heart rate.
  • If you're buying an elliptical trainer for a tight space, consider the footprint. Also consider your ceiling height and whether you will have enough room to exercise comfortably.
Sponsored Links

Back to top