Going to buy an "at home elliptical"

My hubby and I are going to buy an at home elliptical and I was wondering if anyone might have bought one recently and was either really happy or really dissapointed?

I am planning on spending between $600 - $800

Feedback would really be appreciated

Wed. Jan 30, 11:53am

my parents got one and love it. my dad uses it a lot. i am pretty sure he bought his as sam's...

Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 11:55 AM

I bought one recently and was quite happy. Definitely do your research and read some reviews so you can figure out what you want in a machine. I remcommend treadmill doctor and treadmill sensei who both have tons of elliptical reviews.

I have used many different models at the gym so I know that even if 2 machines are made by the same company I may like one and not the other. You have to get on and try them and do so for a good 10 minutes. I started out in the price range you are looking at but eventually upped my price range to $1500 because <$1000 machines didn't feel very stable, but if you keep your eye on Craig's List you may find some deals - just make sure you're educated enough to know a deal when you see one.

My criteria were:
* Adjustable Incline - hate it. I like a fixed ramp.
* Stride length - I have looong legs and I like to stretch them, but teh husband not so much, so adjustable stride length was must in our household.
* Stability - seriously I felt like some of them were going to tip over once I got going. I need to feel safe, and I don't like a lot of sway or side-to-side motion.
* Arm bars (?) - like them.
* Programs - meh, I like a basic interval, but don't need anything fancy
* Display - I strongly dislike LED absue - I like simple displays. I notice a lot of cheap models try to make up for being low quality with a flashy display.
* Quality - a little more vague, but does the unit feel like it's made with quality parts? Or does it just feel cheap?

I tried models by Nordictrack, Reebok, New Balance, Sport Art, Precor, Welso, Horizon and Life Fitness. Sport Art and New Balance were both front runners because they had adjustable stride length. The New Balance actually felt more stable but even their longest stride (15" - 19") was way shorter than the Sport Art (15" - 26") madking the SA just a bit more comfy for me the clincher was that the SA display model was on sale for nearly $1K less than its retail price making it just $500 more than the New Balance so that's what I bought (paid $1600 total).

My only advice? Try lots of machines for more than just a minute or two apiece, and figure out what's most important to you. Don't necessarily shy away from high-end brands because you may be able to get a better deal than you would think.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 12:29 PM

If you can check consumer reports. They are completely non baias when it comes to rating the equipment.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 12:42 PM

precor

I bought a precor elliptical last year. I love it! It cost 3000 canadian but it was completely worth it! I have it set up so I have tv and dvds I can watch or music and it means I don't have to leave the house! I live in a climate with sometimes harsh winters so outside exercise is not always an option.
It cost a penny but I love it.
I was advised rear drive models are better and last longer.

tidyed

Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 3:28 PM

Walmart

I bought an inexpensive one (like about $210) from Walmart over a year ago. I have been on it 6 out of 7 days of the week since then and love it! I did have to replace a belt in the summertime (which cost me about $6 plus S&H, but other than that, no problems). One tip: pedalling backwards is great too and works totally different muscles.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 3:45 PM

Weslo

I got a Weslo on sale from Kmart for $229.oo and love it. It feel really stable and has different programed workouts it came with a set of 2lb. weights and some of the wokouts tell you to do different exersise using the weights. This one also has a heart monitor.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 3:59 PM

Related Content: How To Lose Weight- The Basics Weight Watchers Points System The Fat Smash Diet The Eat To Live Diet The Beck Diet Solution How To Get The Motivation To Lose Weight		How To Be Successful Using PEERtrainer How To Burn Fat Online Weight Loss Support- How It Works Does Green Tea Help You Lose Weight? Tips On Using PEERtrainer Visit The PEERtrainer Community Diet and Fitness Resources
Fitness Weight Watchers Meetings Learning To Inspire Others: You Already Are Writing Down Your Daily Workouts Spending Money On A Personal Trainer? How I Became A Marathon Runner		Preventive Health How To Prevent Injuries During Your Workout Flu Season: Should You Take The Flu Shot? Are You Really Ready To Start PEERtrainer? Super Foods That Can Boost Your Energy Reversing Disease Through Nutrition
New Diet and Fitness Articles: Weight Watchers Points Plus How To Adjust Your Body To Exercise New: Weight Watchers Momentum Program New: PEERtrainer Blog Archive Review Of The New Weight Watchers Momentum Program		Weight Loss Motivation by Joshua Wayne: Why Simple Goal Setting Is Not Enough How To Delay Short Term Gratification How To Stay Motivated How To Exercise With A Busy Schedule
Real World Nutrition and Fitness Questions Can Weight Lifting Help You Lose Weight? Are Protein Drinks Safe? Nutrition As Medicine?		Everyday Weight Loss Tips How To Eat Healthy At A Party How To Eat Out And Still Lose Weight The Three Bite Rule Tips On How To Stop A Binge