Proform Elliptical Trainer
An elliptical trainer is an exercise machine designed to replicate walking or running without the excessive pressure to the joints associated with these activities. Ellipticals offer a combination of the running/walking action of a treadmill combined with the stepping action of a stair stepper and the circular action of a stationary bike.
Proform is recognized as the world’s largest fitness brand. Among the many exercise machines under this brand are Proform Ellipticals. Proform Ellipticals are very smooth and the feel is similar to that of much more expensive gym machines. The smoothness is a result of the SMR (Silent Magnetic Resistance) and Reflex Step technologies.
One of the more popular elliptical machines is the Proform XP StrideClimber 600 Elliptical. This is a machine that combines a strider and a stair stepper. It is actually an elliptical machine with a twist, as it features a climber mode. This is also called a ramp elliptical. While some people are not happy with the climber mode, others appreciate the extra challenge and variety of a steep workout.
At a price of $1199, the Proform XP StrideClimber 600 features the iFIT journal where you can store your fitness data, allowing you to track your progress up to ten years. The machine also includes a target trainer with an indicator light to warn you if your workout is too slow or too fast, so you can adjust your pace and stay in your target zone.
In addition to the patented StrideClimber to provide you with a tough stair stepper workout, the Proform XP StrideClimber 600 also features an 18 inch stride length, 8 workout programs and 10 resistance levels. Its Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) technology provides a smooth action. It comes with a dual-grip heart rate monitor with sensors built into the handles. The machine has a user capacity of 275 pounds.
Like the rest of Proform’s line of elliptical machines below the $1500 price range, this particular model is strictly designed for light to moderate use. If you only use it a few times a week for 20 minutes a day, the machine will work fine. For more strenuous daily workouts, however, or if there are multiple users, an elliptical trainer under $1500 will not be suitable.
The Proform XP StrideClimber 600 is obviously not designed for heavy use. If you plan on working out more intensely, you may want to take a look at other exercise machines with superior mechanical durability and value.
