Introduction:
We have found ellipticals to be the fastest growing and most fashionable category of fitness equipment. An elliptical trainer is one of the best ways to get a full-body workout in 20 to 30 minutes. Step into the cardio room at any gym or health club and you’ll notice that there are more elliptical machines in use than there are treadmills, stairs, or stationary bikes. Why? Because people who are truly committed to a serious fitness regimen know that they get a superior workout on an elliptical trainer. An elliptical we really like comes from giant fitness equipment manufacturer ProForm. Here’s our review of the popular 500 ZLE model
General rating:
4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Main features:
The ProForm 500 ZLE is a rear folding elliptical bike that has a 3-level adjustable stride length. This allows the user to easily focus their training on a specific muscle group, making for a versatile, effective and enjoyable workout. The design allows the machine to be stored in a small space, a great feature for those with little space to spare. The console has an easy-to-read backlit LCD screen with stereo speakers. There’s also a fan to keep you cool and a built-in iFit SD reader that gives you virtually unlimited training options.
Price:
Around £ 600.00
Product description:
This is a quality elliptical bike that has 16 preset programs and a flywheel for maximum speed and smoothness. The adjustable stride length ensures that you get a safe and effective workout. If you are interested in reaching your fitness goals in the shortest time possible, this machine is worth checking out.
Product specifications:
Assembled Size: 164cm high x 64cm wide x 195cm long
Folded size: 164 cm high x 64 cm wide x 125 cm long
Weight: 80 kg
User weight limit: 130 kg
Steering wheel weight: 6 kg
Number of pre-programmed workouts: 16 (8 based on calorie goals and 8 based on weight loss goals)
Resistor Type: QuietTech® Digital Silent Magnetic Resistor
Stride setting: 13 “, 15” or 18 “user selectable
Product characteristics:
The backlit blue LCD console display shows resistance level, speed, time, distance, pulse rate, and calories burned. Heart rate is measured by an EKG grip heart rate and pulse monitor. A belt for the popular Polar® heart rate monitor is optional, but highly recommended. There is an iPod compatible dock, as well as the ability for an interactive workout using an iFit SD card. IFit technology allows custom workouts to be uploaded directly to the elliptical exerciser, so you can have a virtual workout in a variety of locations. iFit controls speed and resistance to simulate the terrain of your chosen location. The 500 ZLE also has ergonomically designed hand levers to tone the upper body and improve coordination.
Conclusion:
We like the compact size of the ProForm 500 ZLE that doesn’t compromise on performance. It has all the features that you would expect from a mid to low priced elliptical machine from a well respected gym equipment manufacturer.
