You’ve heard the saying, “You get what you pay for.” And it definitely applies to purchasing an elliptical trainer. The cost of an elliptical trainer varies from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. Consequently the quality of the machines can differ dramatically.
It is not surprising that the major of elliptical trainer sold are cheap models, built with cheap components. Who buys cheap elliptical trainers, $500 or less? Generally people who intend to get back in shape, and want to shed those extra pounds.
Cheap elliptical trainers are found at all of the mass merchant retailers and large sporting goods stores. They are also promoted on the home shopping networks. And the companies that sell them make a good pitch. They claim for a few hundred dollars you can get a total body, low-impact workout. So what do you really get with a cheap elliptical trainer, and how does it compare with higher price models.
Durability
Guess what? Cheap elliptical trainers are not very durable, and they tend to breakdown with even moderate use. When you are mass producing an elliptical trainer for under $500, it is going to lack quality components and will be poorly engineered. That’s why they are so cheap, and it is also the reason they come with such limited warranties. In general, cheap elliptical trainers come with a 90 day parts and labor warranty. The coverage on these warranties suggests these machines are built for obsolescence. In other words, the manufacturer does not have faith the machine will last much beyond 90 days.
Stability
Cheap elliptical trainers are usually very light weight. Now some things you may want light weight, like summer clothing, but that is not the case with fitness equipment. The heavier the elliptical trainer the more stable it will be. If you have an elliptical trainer that weighs less than 100 lbs. and you weigh more than a waif, then you could have problems with the machine rocking or even falling over. When you have an elliptical that weighs 175 lbs or more, it can withstand some serious impact without moving or shifting.
Another factor to consider is the length of the elliptical trainer. Cheap elliptical trainers tend to be compact. Better machines are longer and take up more space. Once again, the additional length will contribute to the overall stability.
Quality of the Elliptical Motion
Due to the compact size of a cheap elliptical trainer, the stride can be very short and restricting. Some inexpensive ellipticals have strides as short as 14”. Unless you are a Lilliputian, you’ll find the elliptical motion to be uncomfortable and bouncy. I personal like machines that have 18’-20” strides and an elongated elliptical motion. The stride feels more natural.
You will also find that cheap ellipticals are noisy and lack the smooth motion found in higher price machines.
So here is the dilemma, you realize that you need to shed those extra pounds and get yourself back into shape. But are you really committed? If you spend $1,000-$2,000 will your elliptical trainer become an expensive clothes hanger? But if you purchase a cheap elliptical trainer, will you need to replace it soon and buy a real machine?
Consider this? If you spend more money for a quality elliptical trainer, maybe you will feel more incline to use it. Not only because it will provide a better workout, but also because it cost so much you hate to see all that money go to waste. Make a serious commitment and go for the real thing.
Fred Waters is the author of the Elliptical Trainer Review site, where you can get reviews, ratings and his Elliptical Trainer Best Buy recommendations.
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