A Survey of Consumer Reports on Elliptical Machines

If you are going to be in the market for an elliptical trainer, consumer reports are a great source for product evaluations that have been written by users of the equipment, as opposed to sales literature. The best part about these consumer reports on elliptical machine is that they are available for free on the internet.

Consumer Reports on Elliptical Machine - The Diamonback

Besides just making elliptical training machines, Diamondback also manufactures exercise bicycles, treadmills, and steppers. For years now, the elliptical trainers that Diamondback makes have been rear driven. These rear-driven trainers have a very flat stride due to the small flywheel in the back and the way that their handlebars meet up with the pedal skis. This year, they have added some front-driven ellipticals to their product line that have received a positive response from the users.

Consumer Reports on Elliptical Machine - The Precor

Precor was the first company in the fitness industry to manufacture an elliptical cross trainer. This company sets the standard for quality in elliptical machines, with their EFX machine still leading the way. Precor ellipticals are sold through high-end specialty fitness dealers and can be found in many top-of-the-line health clubs.

The one feature that has made the company #1 is their patented CrossRamp. This feature adjusts the incline of the ramp that the front rollers travel on, changing the muscle groups being exercised. The

biggest advantage is that it adds variety to the users' exercise routines.

Precor realizes the general public is always demanding newer high-tech machines, so they recently came out with the AMT (Adaptive Motion Trainer). This AMT has the ability to change motions without an incline ramp.  

Consumer Reports on Elliptical Machine - The ProForm

ProForm is a subsidiary of Icon Health and Fitness, the largest retail fitness company in the world. Icon subsidiaries include Reebok, Weider, NordicTrack, and Weslo. ProForm elliptical trainers are built for the casual user and range in price between $300 and $1,000.  Runners World categorized ProForm trainers as "light duty."

Icon is big on bells and whistles, making a machine look very expensive, but building it out of cheap plastic. These trainers come with a very short warranty of only 90 parts and service, so beware. 

Consumer Reports on Elliptical Machine - The NordicTrack

The original NordicTrack went bankrupt a few years ago, and Icon purchased its name. These elliptical trainers can be found in stores such as Sears, Wal-Mart, Dick's Sporting Goods, and The Sports Authority. The company excels with coming out with product that have numerous bells and whistles

It is highly recommended by consumers that the extended warranty should be purchased, if you end up purchasing this machine. The standard warranty is only one year parts and labor.