If you're looking for an elliptical machine buying guide, we're glad you're reading this one. But don't stop here. Read as many as you can find, and do as much research as you can. This is a big decision, and there are seemingly as many options as you could shake a stick at, as the saying goes It's important to be well-informed when making your purchase. Have a good idea of what your needs are and what your price range will be before getting too far into the process. They need not be mutually exclusive. Elliptical trainers can be pretty costly, but you can still get a quality model at a reasonable price. It all depends on what you need and what you want, and where your budget falls between the two. A console could be an easy way to save some money. You can occasionally get all the features you want without a console that looks like it came off the set of "Star Trek." Pay for the overall piece of elliptical exercise equipment, not the computer screen. Use a Friend's, Hit the Gym, Test It Out | ![]() |
Of course, most of us would feel self conscious going through a workout on the showroom floor, but this is a big purchase. Ask friends what they like about their home elliptical machines, and ask to try out a test drive. Or hit the local gym and try out a commercial elliptical model. See which one you like, and why. Which elliptical machine do you prefer? Which options?
Do Your Homework
Electromagnetic or belt resistance programs and heart monitors are all things to keep in mind when choosing an elliptical trainer. Does it operate backward? It should. How good of an upper-body workout will you get? Is it sturdy? Is it quiet? Can it handle bigger people?
Figure out where you'll put it in your house, and make sure it will fit. Make sure it can face the TV at a straight-on angle, if that's what you're planning. There's nothing worse than getting in shape while getting a crick in your neck.
Finally, a quality product should have a quality warranty. Figure shipping or delivery into the final tab.