Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This machine had lots of problems right out of the box:
The main steel axle was warped, so when the two main handlebars were attached, it popped out the stub/plug on the side of the handlebars, leaving a 2mm gap in the main fame, so when I stride on the machine, it makes a clanking noise.
The plastic over the wheel was warped, and the tension knob didn't work. I used wood cutting tools to carve a line where the warped plastic was hitting the pedal so the scraping noise would stop.
It worked well enough after the self fixing, but then about 10 minutes into its first use, something inside the machine began squeaking, and has yet to go away. I've used it 5 times so far (which is awful-I thought I'd use it every day.), and will try to use it more just to get my $160 worth out of it.
I am NOT an athlete, and am out of shape, though not overweight (120lbs and jiggly, only been exercising >a year, and with very, very LIGHT cardio; Bar method and Leslie Sansone 'walk at home' videos, 'hula for beginners' video, and a resistance band & PT prescribed exercises for strength).
However, I do not break a good sweat even going on this machine for 40+ minutes, perhaps due to the dysfunctional tension knob (it has no resistance, as far as I could tell). After doing a 'walk at home' video, I'm soaked after 20 minutes...This machine *appears* to not push the user to the proper pulse level, but the machine I received could be a lemon.
An elliptical was recommended by a physical therapist because the walk at home videos gave me side stitches, and I'd pulled my shoulder as well. She stressed not to cheap out on a machine, but I don't have enough $ for a gym or professional grade machine. I chose this machine after seeing many fairly good reviews for it on amazon.uk (over there,it has lots of reviews. The other model I was considering was Confidence 2-in-one machine for $130, but it had very poor reviews elsewhere).
Another incident I've experienced that are noted in other reviews for other products made by Confidence is the pedals seem to cause your feet to slide and push your toes against the edge, causing a 'needle like' or numbing sensation in your toes when you get off the machine.
In fact, one of the main reasons I chose this over their two less expensive models is because none of the reviews for this machine mentioned the decline, or a need to prop the front on a 2x4. Alas, this machine certainly does not grip to your shoe, and does benefit from a few books stacked under the front. I've also put small squares of non skid material on the pedals (the type you'd put under a carpet runner, or use as a yoga mat), and it helps a little, but the 2 inch rise in front works much better.
The handle bars also seem to be a little short...My arms don't stretch all the way while striding, though I'm only 5'4". I can't imagine anyone taller even fitting in it. The stride is also very short and more of a circular pedaling motion rather than an authentic oval, elliptical motion.
If the tension had functioned properly, this wouldn't be such a bad machine for home use, given its price in comparison to others. However, based on the machine I received, for the reasons listed above, I could not recommend it to other shoppers. Unfortunately, I haven't any better ideas to offer, since there seems to be a huge gap in price and quality...There's either crappy machines for $300 or less, or nice ones that start in the $1200's.
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Confidence Fitness Space Saving Elliptical TrainerEnjoy a total body workout even if you live in a small home or apartment with this Confidence space-saving elliptical trainer. Designed to provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout for all family members regardless of ability level, the trainer is ideal for event training, rehabilitation, and plain-old cardio fitness. More significantly for space-challenged users, the trainer measures a mere 36 inches long and 20 inches wide--smaller than the size of many chairs. Despite the small size, the trainer still offers all the traditional elliptical features, including a pair of nonskid foot pedals, two elliptical arms for upper body work, and a multi-function computer that monitors your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse. Equipped with an adjustable magnetic resistance system, the trainer offers a maximum capacity of 220 pounds and carries a one-year warranty.
Key Details:
Tracks your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse while working out
Nonskid foot pedals
Adjustable magnetic resistance system
Measures 36 by 20 inches
All necessary tools for easy home assembly are included
220-pound maximum user capacity
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