Compare the different brand names available to you. Here I have listed 6
different popular ones with their various features.
Deluxe II: Two ellipticals are offered by this manufacturer. Both are
light-weight, and relatively inexpensive. Small and compact, they are easy to
move and set up. One style can be easily changed from an elliptical to a stair
climber and stepper.
Useful features include:
Hand pulse
Programmable display
Quiet and smooth magnetic resistance
Foam padded dual-action handlebars (which means they move in sync with the
pedals - this allows you to work your arms out at the same time)
Bottle holder (some with water bottle included)
Wheels for portability
Sturdy steel frame construction
7 series elliptical cross trainer: Maintenance-free magnetic resistance and
impact-free motion are two big benefits with this type of exercise machine.
Useful features include:
Dual action, push and pull handle bars
Large, easy to read LCD monitor
Measures: speed, time, distance, calories, pulse and workload
Built in hand grip pulse sensors that provide contact heart rate
Telemetry heart rate monitor
Sturdy steel frame
Built-in transport wheels
Water bottle and holder
Maximum user weight: 300 lbs.
Life fitness: The top choice of health clubs all over the world. These are
popular with athletic training centers and the armed forces because of their
high quality. There are multiple versions of this type of elliptical machine -
some are larger than others, though they all can hold the same weight.
Features include:
Digital heart rate monitoring system - this is the most accurate method
available
Lower body movement and arm action leads to a total body workout
20 levels of resistance
9 pre-programmed courses
Maximum user weight: 400 lbs.
Comes with a storage and reading rack
Precor elliptical: Patented EFX(TM) technology and the Cross Ramp(TM) incline. These
types of elliptical machines mimic cross-country training, as well as skiing,
walking, running, and climbing.
Forward or reverse stride
Industry standard
Elevation from 10-25 degrees, or 10-35 degrees, depending on make
20 levels of resistance
Power options: 110 volt/220 volt
8 pre-programmed courses
Some contain Polar® to measure heart rate
Maximum user weight: 400 lbs.
Contains a reading rack
StarTrac Natural Runner: Supplies a total body workout, with minimal impact on
your joints. These were the first ellipticals to be self powered - something
other companies have now introduced.
Has the longest stride of all the machines
Total body workout with arm action
15 levels of resistance
10 pre-programmed courses
Fitness test
Polar(TM) telemetry and contact heart rate monitor
Maximum user weight: 350 lbs.
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StarTrac Elliptical Edge: similar to the Natural Runner mentioned above, but
also contains a towel, bottle, and personal stereo holder.
Readouts: speed, time, distance, calories, calories/min, heart rate,
resistance level, course profiles
All other aspects of this machine are comparable to the one above.
The smallest machines are the first four mentioned - but that does not mean they
can carry less weight. Smaller machines are lighter and easier to move out of
the way if you have a living area that doesn't accommodate large machines.
Warranties vary depending on manufacturer, brand name, and retailer. On
individual machines, the warranty is often divided up according to frame,
electronics, motor, parts, manufacturer defects, and phone support.
Remember that you get what you pay for - so if you want the machine to last for
many years, you may want to splurge and purchase a more expensive elliptical trainer.
Either way, you will have a great workout without putting stress on
your joints!
