Livestrong Elliptical Trainers – Comparison and Reviews

Maximum User Weight = Each elliptical trainer depending on its construction has a maximum user weight limit. More expensive trainers generally can handle more weight. So if the limit is 300 lbs, and you are over 300 lbs., you should not buy this trainer but look for one with a higher weight limit. If you weigh substantially less than the weight limit, this will put less strain on the machine and parts. Horizon Fitness Maximum Weight models go from 275 lbs. to 300 lbs.
Magnetic Brake Resistance = Most Elliptical Machines use magnetic resistance which offers resistance through magnetic fields. One type of magnetic resistance is ECB (described below). Magnetic resistance is more maintainance free than those older technologies that relied on friction pads and belts. Magnetic resistance braking is smoother to use is quieter than other types of resistance mechanisms.
ECB Resistance = ECB Resistance is a high quality form of magnetic brake resistance. ECB = eddy current brake. All of Schwinn and Sole Ellipticals use ECB Magnetic Resistance.
Magnetic Resistance Levels = You can adjust the level of magnetic resistance to adjust the intensity of your workout. The more levels of resistance, the more choices you have in how hard a workout that you can select.
Heart Monitor = Most elliptical trainers have a heart monitor (grip or clip on type) which allows you to monitor your heart rate to meet heart rate goals for cardiovascular fitness. Grip monitors are built into the handlebars. The heart rate can be gotten by either a grip pulse monitor, or chest monitor (telemetry). Most ellipticals have at least the grip monitor, and some have both a grip and a chest monitor.
Heart Rate Control = Heart rate programs allow you to control your workout by heartrate, and keep you within a certain cardio range.
Telemetry Belt = This is a belt that is worn to monitor your heartrate. This can be used instead of the grip type of heart monitor and is considered more accurate.
Stride Length = This is the distance between your front foot and back foot at full extension on an elliptical trainer. What is the ideal elliptical stride length? If you are tall with long legs, you would want to get a stride that is longer. You should be able to fully extend your legs during each stride and be able to achieve a full range of motion through your hip joints. Also, you don’t want to hyper-extend. Taller users should get an 18-inch stride or longer. Users below 5′ 4″ can use an elliptical stride length of 18 inches or less. Between 5′ 4″ and 5′ 8″ an 18-inch stride should be ideal. If you are 5′ 9″ or taller, an 18-inch or longer stride is recommended. The taller you are a longer stride will be better. Some high end ellipticals have an adjustable stride length.
Workout Programs = Almost all ellipticals have a small computer and display where you can run multiple workout programs that vary the resistance. Some examples of programs are: Time, Distance, Calorie, Hills, Weight Loss, Reverse Train.
LED/LCD Display = The elliptical trainer will have a display to give you information (such as time, calorie burn, distance). They can be either LED lit, or use an LCD screen. Many ellipticals have LCD screens that are not backlit, as many run on batteries. If its says “BACKLIT LCD”, then it has a backlight illuminating the screen. LED displays are self illuminated screens.
Built-in Fan = Some elliptical trainers have a built-in fan to cool you off during your workout.
Built-in Speakers = Some elliptical trainers have built-in speakers, so you can plug in your ipod or other mp3 player and listen to music without having to wear earphones which could get tangled during your workout.
Power Incline/Incline Ramp = An incline ramp allows you to simulate hills and make your workout harder. You press a button to raise the incline ramp to your preferred position.