Elliptical Trainer Review

Evaluating elliptical trainer reviewers

Elliptical trainers combine the features of a stair-stepper and a ski machine. You stand on pedals that move on an elliptical track, usually via rollers. Some models have only stationary or preprogrammed incline options, while others allow the user to adjust the incline throughout the workout. Reviews say that elliptical trainers have some advantages over treadmills in that they provide good workout variety without much joint impact. In addition, most elliptical trainers have movable arms for an upper-body workout, and you'll also find multiple exercise options, such as resistance and incline, that allow varying levels of difficulty. But treadmills are still far more popular overall. (Please see our separate report on treadmills.)

Most fitness experts recommend starting your search with ellipticals that cost $1,000 and up. In this price range, you'll find long stride lengths (20 inches is a good fit for most users, according to reviews), automated inclines and lots of extras, including music speakers, wireless heart-rate monitors and workout fans. Elliptical trainers costing $2,000 and up are more durable and can stand up to heavy use, but reviews indicate that most users will do fine with a mid-range elliptical that costs much less. It is possible to find cheap ellipticals under $600, but experts say they are best for occasional use only. Ellipticals at this price range have shorter stride lengths, lower weight limits and skimpy warranties; they also attract a number of durability complaints.

ConsumerReports.org says elliptical trainers in the lower price ranges often have problems right from the start; and ultimately you get what you pay for. Overall, elliptical machines costing more than $2,000 performed best in testing, and cheaper elliptical trainers had more durability concerns. Inexpensive elliptical machines from Stamina Products Inc. are a particular concern. In ConsumerReports.org's most recent review, the Stamina 1772 (*Est. $300) is labeled as a safety risk because the bolts connecting the foot pedals to the frame came off too easily. Stamina responded by saying that the bolts must be tightened before each use, but ConsumerReports.org says that it's ''unrealistic'' to have to tighten bolts each time you use the machine. The magazine reported this in a safety alert that can be accessed for free on their website. The Stamina 1772 was recalled shortly thereafter, and Stamina updated the user manual to say that these bolts must be "securely tightened."

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is a good source to check for product recalls, which can affect cheap elliptical trainers in large numbers. The CPSC recalled nearly 20,000 Horizon and Livestrong elliptical trainers in January 2010 because the foot pedals can fall off, which poses an injury hazard to the user. The recall affects eight model numbers sold between October 2009 and November 2009; a full list can be found at CPSC.gov. About23,000 Fitness Quest Eclipse 1175e Elliptical Trainers were recalled in December 2007 and May 2010 because the cranks that connect the foot platforms to the rear wheel of the machine can break during exercise, posing a fall hazard to consumers.

When it comes to finding helpful reviews of elliptical trainers, ConsumerReports.org and TreadmillDoctor.com are the most credible sources. ConsumerReports.org tests and compares nearly 30 elliptical machines based on ease of use, safety and value. Elliptical trainers are assigned an overall rating, in addition to sub-ratings for ergonomics, exercise range, construction and other criteria. TreadmillDoctor.com sells replacement parts and supplies for fitness equipment, and editors are in a position to judge long-term reliability and value. They review nearly every elliptical on the market. Fitness-Equipment-Source.com is a similar site, run by industry insiders, that has good coverage of elliptical trainers. User reviews are also very helpful, especially for budget ellipticals. Sears.com, Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com all have a significant number of owner-written reviews.