Precor EFX 5.23 Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this elliptical 3 years ago for $4500, so I was amazed to learn today that it is only $2999 on Amazon. I have worked out on several machines and if your life is crazy like mine and you need maximum burn in the least amount of time, then this is it. My average calorie burn is 400 in 30 minutes at resistance level 11 and incline level 14, whereas on my Precor Treadmill, I only achieve half of that for about 210 calories. Gives excellent lower body and core muscle tone, and leaves your hands free to read an article, switch channels on the TV remote, drink a power shake, etc. The calories burned on the Precor 5.23 rival my weightlifting workouts that burn 1,000 calories per hour, and that's intense!!

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The Precor EFX 5.23 home Crosstrainer offers a complete cardio and muscle-toning lower-body workout. It features patented CrossRamp technology for Variable Stride Geometry, and eight programs help you choose the workout that best fits your fitness goal. Advanced heart rate monitoring ensures you stay in your target zone while an intuitive console displays additional workout metrics (not compatible with optional wireless transmitters). With a warm color palette and smooth lines, the 5.23 fits your home and lifestyle.
Features:
Adjustable CrossRamp targets key muscle groups. The ramp angle is fully adjustable from 15 to 25 degrees and moves up and down at the push of a button, allowing you to individually target and work all major lower body muscle groups. Different ramp positions engage different lower body muscle groups. When moving the ramp from the bottom to the top, you'll feel various muscles engage and disengage--the lower positions activate all muscle groups, while the higher positions isolate glutes, quads, and calves. A variable stride length, from 18.5 to 20 inches, offers even greater diversity to your workout.
Multi-grip handrails. Stationary handrails provide multiple arm and hand positions for comfortable posture and proper technique during every workout.
Designed with your home in mind. With its smooth lines and subtle color palette, the EFX complements your home decor and suits your lifestyle.
Track your target heart rate. SmartRate offers instant display of your heart rate to help you stay in your target zone for a more efficient cardio and weight-loss workout. The 5.23 features touch heart rate with ergonomically positioned, touch sensitive grips.
Intuitive console is easy to read and adjust. Access Quickstart and programs at the touch of a button. The backlit LCD display shows your heart rate, calories burned and time/duration of exercise--to help you get the most from your workout.
Locking Pin: A locking pin secures the foot pedals, preventing movement, when not in use
16 consistent levels of electromagnetic resistance to customize your workout
Two User IDs allow two people to enter and store personal preference information, then quickly retrieve it for future workouts
Integrated storage shelf for water bottle, portable music player, etc.
QuickStart lets you begin workout with the push of a single button
Optimized biomechanics combining low impact with smooth natural motion
Direction of rotation is completely reversible from forward to backward to allow even greater use of different muscle groups

Specifications:
Resistance levels: 16
CrossRamp: 15 to 25 degrees
Stride: 18.5 to 20 inches
Programs: 8 total including 1 cross training, 1 gluteals, 1 heart rate, 1 hill climb, 1 interval, 1 manual, 1 weight loss
Dimensions: 76 x 29 x 62 inches (L x W x H)
Weight: 160 pounds

Manufacturer's Warranty Frame and welds - lifetime; parts and wear items - ten years; labor - one year
Note on AssemblyPrecor highly recommends that you consider a professional assembly and installation of your Precor exercise machine. If you would like to speak to someone about having your machine professionally installed, please contact Precor at askprecor@precor.com or by calling 1-866-593-5568.
About Precor Precor is passionate about fitness. It all started with a desire to create a better kind of exercise equipment, one that mirrored human movement: fluid, natural, and dynamic. Twenty-six years later the company's biomechanics and engineering experience have led to countless innovations that have captivated fitness enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Precor has introduced many "firsts" to the fitness industry, including the Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer (EFX®) in 1995 and the revolutionary, award-winning Adaptive Motion Trainer (AMT®) in 2007. Today, Precor is a celebrated top-tier brand preferred by fitness enthusiasts of all abilities and their machines are used every day in health clubs, hotels, facilities, and homes worldwide.

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Body Max Bodyglide SST8000 Ski-Skate Trainer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'm really getting a great workout on this machine. I can feel the results in places the rest of my exercise routine never affects. It's easy enough, unless you want to make it intense, which is an option, a little bit fun, not grueling at all for me, even when I start `feeling' the results, and I get results in a very short amount of time, 10-15 minutes. I could do more, but I think I would be very sore the next day and I am using other equipment as part of my workout as well. The 15 minutes is making a lot of difference in my legs and arms.
By varying the position of your feet (and arms), you work on different muscles. I could definitely tell the difference later, especially the next day. I can actually feel muscles that normally don't get much attention, upper and lower hips, thighs (inner and outer), and calf muscles in particular. By pushing and pulling yourself using the handlebars, you can even get an excellent upper-body workout. I think this would do very well to get rid of flab on the back, midsection, and arms. In fact, people have mentioned that my arms are looking good.
After several weeks, I am still finding that I get a really good workout in about 15 minutes. I don't usually want to do more than that at one time. I may go back in several times during the day, or use some other exercise along with it, but it doesn't take much time to make a difference.
Someone with serious training goals will want to spend more time and with a higher intensity. The machine is flexible enough to meet different kinds of needs. I like that about it.
LATERAL MOTION: While the treadmill and elliptical are great at the forward and/or up and down motion, I wanted lateral movement as well. This machine provides side-to-side motion. I added another piece of very VERY expensive equipment recently, this is still the ONLY one that provides me with the lateral movement I was looking for. I've now been averaging 15-20 minutes per workout and it is always a pleasure to spend time on this machine, never grueling, much like a walk or skate. I wouldn't call it a `glide' because it takes pressure. If I could only have one piece of exercise equipment, I'd probably go with an elliptical, but this does things the elliptical doesn't do, particularly the lateral motion.
INTENSITY: You can make your workout as challenging as you prefer, and it's no problem to just use it 'lightly' to improve your range of motion. It doesn't 'force' you into a workout that is harder than you want on any particular day. I would say that it fits whatever my exercise goal is for the day. I can set the resistance higher or lower without stopping.
ARMS: I am taking advantage of the arm rails exercise my arms. I was surprised when people started mentioning that my arms are getting buff. I spend part of my workout, just a couple of minutes on each side, pushing and pulling, almost like rowing There are all sorts of ways to get your arms into a workout with this machine. That's very important added benefit to me.
ABS: It gets the abs too, and I'm seeing results there as well.
CALF MUSCLES: My calf muscles could write a book. They didn't know what hit them! The change is dramatic.
HOW IT WORKS: The machine does not move the user. When you work out, power you generate is transferred through the belt to drive the flywheel movement. You choose the program you want and the machine automatically changes the resistance, making it seem sometimes as if the machine is gaining momentum or you are going faster, but it's actually because the resistance goes lower or higher as you work out, depending on the program you select. You can always override it to make it easier or more intense without stopping to adjust it.
There is limited warranty of 3 years on the main frame and 1 year on the magnetic system and computer display. They recommend a large mat to protect the floor under your machine.
I WON'T BE READING WHILE ON THIS MACHINE: The movement of the machine would make it very difficult to read while you work out, if you like to do that, but it's operation is quiet enough to easily be able to watch television or listen to music. It's a little hard, at least for me at 5'2" to look 'over' the display monitor and see the TV, but I find myself bobbing to the left and then the right, catching a look at the television briefly on each side. I don't find it a problem not to be able to see a computer or television screen for 15-20 minutes/day.
A handy, fairly large tray with cup holder and a section appropriate for a remote control, etc., comes with the machine. The cup holder tray is bigger than most and should be able to hold anything you need while you work out.
SET-UP & INSTALLATION: When the machine arrived, I had professionals set it up for me, because it weighs about 306 lbs and my gym is upstairs. There appears to be 116 parts. The monitor initially had a problem, but one telephone call got a new monitor sent to me immediately! Even as I was waiting for it, I was able to use the machine just fine without the electronics. The only difference was, I wasn't able to change the resistance level or choose from the variety of programs.
INITIAL WORKOUT: The monitor is working and I just had my first workout on it. I rarely ever manage to bother to work out hard enough to sweat, but this did it for me, even though I decided to start out very slowly the first time. I set it for 'Weight Loss' and only for 10 minutes. The Default setting counts down from 30 minutes, but you can set it for anything you want, up to 99 minutes. The pulse monitor worked great! [edited to say that I find the monitor a little hard to understand even after reading the manual. I occasionally see the pulse monitor kick in, but I have no idea how to make that happen, or get the `FITNESS TEST' started. I thought I was doing what the manual said to do, but I've only been able to get the `FITNESS TEST' to work a couple of times, by sheer luck I think. Same with the pulse monitor. If it happens, it happens, but it sure isn't because I selected the right keys or buttons. I still have no idea how to do those functions. ]
I came back an hour later to add that I'm glad I didn't do more than I did today. My muscles rarely get sore and they are. There is a 'Fitness Test' and an 'Aerobic' setting, and more that I haven't explored yet. That very simple, plain monitor has more going for it than it first appeared. I like it!
I want to read the instructions more carefully before I go at it again tomorrow, then I'll come back and update. I do know already that I got a good workout in a short amount of time, without feeling like it was drudgery.
I've watched the instructional DVD in which the demonstrator shows how to work out changing foot positions and even turning around backwards, which you'll want to do very carefully. Once you're there and holding on to the handlebars, it feels very comfortable and stable, for even more variety. The woman demonstrating most of the functions (a man demonstrates one short segment on speed skating I think) seems to be more than a hired model. She appears to have used the machine, from the way she talks about it and from looking at her leg muscles. I'll bet she has a very strong kick after looking at her calf muscles in particular. I believe it's the same person who is in the video that I saw here before purchasing the machine, but the training DVD is a helpful, detailed demonstration that I intend to watch again now that I have a little experience using the machine. I can relate more now to some of her suggestions that didn't make sense to me when I watched before using the machine.
SECOND DAY: I'm back the next morning. I can tell that I will get a good workout on this machine, even though it looks so simple that I had my doubts at first. There are 8 workout training selections. MANUAL, RACING (where you race against the machine and get a 'You Win' or 'You Lose' at the end. There are also 5 Training Programs: Rolling Hill, Weight Loss, Aerobic Training, Stress Relief, and Random. You can also switch to "Lap Profile" during any program. Every .25 mile completes one circle and the number of circles is displayed in the middle. There is a "Heart Rate Control Training" (HRC) program where you contact the metal pulse sensors, which are placed where they need to be on the handlebars. There is a "Fitness test" function which enables you to measure your recovery pulse at the end of training. You put your hands on the pulse sensors on the handlebars, press FITNESS TEST, and it measures your pulse for one minute before giving you a "fitness mark" with value ranging from 1 to 6, 1 being excellent and 6 being unsatisfactory, so you can see how your fitness improves over time.
All-in-all, I appreciate the simplicity of the machine. I like to keep things simple, but at the same time, I like my electronics to have all the bells and whistles to keep me entertained. This model costs a little more for the bells and whistles, which will be worth it to some users and others can do without the larger control panel provided in this model, to save a little money. Before I bought this machine, I read the only review available at that time, which was for the other model, with a smaller monitor display. That user seemed very pleased with the purchase, as I am with mine.



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Kettler HKS EXT7 Elliptical Cross Trainer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Great product overall. Very nice movement/ergonomics and sturdier than other brands in the same price range. Decent exercise program options but takes a bit of getting practice to get comfortable with the interface. It's worth the money as my wife and I use the trainer almost daily. The resistance band (magnetic) is really good; appropriate for beginners through the ultra athlete.
Now onto the "However"...the belt tension was not set correctly from the factory and it resulted in having to change the belt after 4 days of use. Customer service was VERY helpful and pleasant to deal with. Replacing the belt wasn't difficult just a nuisance to take the unit all apart. Finding the right tension with the replacement belt was tricky. Now the new belt is on all seems well. Hopefully that issue doesn't resurface. All that aside we are quite pleased with the product overall--small footprint, great stride length suitable for our height (I'm 5'10" and my wife is 5'7"), relatively quiet--although there's a small rattle that needs to be found, sturdy but not commercial (gym) quality sturdy.

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Precor AMT100i Experience Series Adaptive Motion Trainer Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I took the plunge and bought this trainer for my home gym. I have tried numerous machines and found that most ellipticals have a few drawbacks. They are great for reducing impact, compared to a treadmill, but usually constrain movement to a fixed motion. Other than being able to vary the stride length a couple of inches on a few models, they all have exactly the same motion, over and over. It was difficult to find one that fit my gait, and at the same time be suitable for my wife who is only 5 feet tall. Actually impossible would be a better description.
This machine is unique, and should be in its own class of truly variable elliptical training. The stride can be ANYTHING you make it; from stepping to full running gait to a pedaling stride. It even allows a backward pedal stride if you want to really mix up the routine. The machine doesn't control the gait. YOU do, and you can vary it any time without touching any electronic controls. You'll need to try it to really understand.
We have over 20 machines in the home gym including a nice treadmill and stationary bike, but we just about need a sign up sheet for using the AMT in my house! We all like this machine. The price was steep, but this machine will get a lot of use, and the value we get from improved fitness is priceless. A cheaper machine that is more difficult to use was an option, but in the long run a more expensive machine that will actually get used is the better option.
The quality of the design and fabrication of the machine is excellent, and it should last for many, many years with only my family using it.
Very highly recommended!
A follow up after one full year of use: Every member of my family uses this elliptical trainer, so it has seen about 15-20 hours/week of use. It has been 100% reliable, and other than occasional cleaning has needed no maintenance. We remain completely satisfied with this elliptical trainer, and it remains our best investment in cardio training. The variable stride/gait of this machine allows virtually any user to get the most from this machine, and will allow you to work around soreness if necessary.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Precor AMT100i Experience Series Adaptive Motion Trainer

As versatile as the human body, the AMT100i from Precor allows you to instantly choose and change your stride motion and speed without pushing control buttons on the display, or waiting for the machine to respond. The commercial-oriented AMT meets your most demanding workout needs and provides a challenging alternative to any exerciser looking for variety and the chance to experience freedom of movement.

Adaptive motion: By allowing you to alter your motion at the slightest whim of your imagination, no two workouts have to feel the same. This keeps your mind engaged and your body torn between wanting to experiment with new movements and needing a second to catch your breath.
Stride Dial: Evolve each of your workouts with the knowledge that every time you observe the AMT's stride dial you'll be getting a crash course in learning about the muscles of your body and how they respond to different movements
Contralateral arm movement for natural motion: Arm and leg movements are coordinated, reflecting the way you naturally move through life.
Dual-plane resistance refines workload: A patented system that applies resistance to both horizontal and vertical planes of motion, adding yet another dimension for you to customize your workout.
0- to 27-inch stride length provides unlimited variation: Choose your movement and change it as often as your heart and mind desire. Adaptive motion helps create new possibilities and rewards.
Stride Dial tracks muscle engagement: Monitoring your motion in real-time, you get instant feedback on how your muscles respond to different movements.
Dual action provides both upper and lower body workout: Arms are engaged with pushing and pulling motion to provide the ultimate in total body engagement.
Bio-feedback center with SmartRate provides dedicated feedback on heart rate and calories. SmartRate shows your heart rate in relation to the target zone for weight loss and cardio training.
Numeric keypad makes data entry and Cardio Theater control easy
Tap Control provides satisfying tactile and audible click so you feel confident and safe operating the product
Heart rate monitoring and compatibility with heart rate telemetry reading using an optional chest strap
Accessory holders for water bottle, portable music, reading material and more
Two-step powder-coating process applies rust-resistant undercoat and cosmetic topcoat to steel frame
QuickStart lets you begin workout with the push of a single button
Enjoy integrated entertainment: An optional Cardio Theater personal viewing screen can be integrated into the console, providing you with entertainment options while keeping you moving in the correct biomechanic position.

Specifications:
Maximum stride length: 27 inches
Minimum stride length: Climber motion (0 inches)
Pedal dimensions: 14.5 x 7.5 inches
Height of foot at highest position: 18.5 inches
Height of pedal at lowest position (step up): 5.5 inches
Maximum pause time: 30 seconds
Maximum workout time: 240 minutes
Maximum user weight: 350 pounds
Resistance levels: 1 to 20
Programs: Fat burner, heart rate control, interval, manual
Dimensions: 74 x 28 x 69 inches (L x W x H)
Weight: 445 pounds

Manufacturer's Warranty Frame - seven years, display face assembly - five years, parts - two years, labor - one year
Note on Assembly Precor highly recommends that you consider a professional assembly and installation of your Precor exercise machine. If you would like to speak to someone about having your machine professionally installed, please contact Precor at askprecor@precor.com or by calling 1-866-593-5568.
About Precor Precor is passionate about fitness. It all started with a desire to create a better kind of exercise equipment, one that mirrored human movement: fluid, natural, and dynamic. Twenty-six years later the company's biomechanics and engineering experience have led to countless innovations that have captivated fitness enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Precor has introduced many "firsts" to the fitness industry, including the Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer (EFX®) in 1995 and the revolutionary, award-winning Adaptive Motion Trainer (AMT®) in 2007. Today, Precor is a celebrated top-tier brand preferred by fitness enthusiasts of all abilities and their machines are used every day in health clubs, hotels, facilities, and homes worldwide.

Click here for more information about Precor AMT100i Experience Series Adaptive Motion Trainer

Read More...