Product Preview -- The Matrix Ascent Trainer Elliptical

Ohiyo!

I recently received a note from Kevin Mast at Matrix Fitness. As anyone who has ever been on a Matrix elliptical or treadmill knows, they produce some of the top equipment on the market today. These guys know what they are doing.

Kevin sent over a brochure for their new elliptical machine which features an incline! That's great news to anyone who wants to kick their workout up a notch or two. In the past this feature has only been found on Precor ellipticals such as the Precor 546, or on a couple of models from Icon Fitness where the technology has been licensed from Precor. Luckily with the Matrix Ascent elliptical, Matrix has figured out a way to loosen the stranglehold Precor has had on the incline elliptical.

The Matrix Ascent Trainer Elliptical

Check out the very impressive specs on the Matrix Ascent Trainer:

Matrix Ascent Trainer Specifications
Stride: 21"-24"
Incline: 30%
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Display: LED
Programs: 8
Resistance Levels: 25
Elevation Levels: 20
Max User Weight: 400 lbs
Unit Weight: 390 lbs

Now, I haven't actually seen one of the Matrix Ascent units yet, but Kevin promises they will be on hand at the big fitness tradeshow, IHRSA, in March. I'll be there and I'll be ready to give a full report on the machine. From what I've seen in the brochure, this is going to be a major competitor for the older technology of the Precor 546...expect to see all the top gyms and fitness clubs installing the Matrix Ascent as soon as they are released. Check back then for more information on ordering and pricing.

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The Eclipse 2100HRA Elliptical - decent performer under $500

Ohiyo!

Well, the Treadmill Sensei is both tired and very happy right now. You see, Mrs. Sensei and I took care of my ever so perfect grandson today. Baby Raymond was born this past weekend and we are all incredibly glad he decided to come out and join us. It was touch and go there as my daughter never dialated more than 3 centimeters so the doctors did a c-section on her late Friday evening. Both baby and mommy are doing well, and grandfather Sensei is very proud.

In an effort to try and finish up the reviews from the Ichi-Ban awards, I decided to log on late and do a quick elliptical review for the Eclipse 2100HRA. Being at the very bottom end of the elliptical spectrum we don't get many of these units in to the DOJO to work on -- they tend to be cheaper to replace than to repair. The Eclipse 2100HRA ranks as one of the very few under $500 ellipticals even worth mentioning. It's not a perfect elliptical by any means, but you really do get what you pay for.

The pros on this tiny elliptical are the size which allows you to place the Eclipse 2100HRA in virtually any small space. The heart rate monitoring and control are features very rarely found in units at this price.

Some of the things you give up when you drop down are stability - the Eclipse 2100HRA elliptical is a mere 96 pounds, which doesn't give you a huge amount of support - and the true elliptical motion. These lower end ellipticals have much more of a "D" shape to their motion rather than the elongated oval of the higher priced ellipticals. The feel isn't bad, but it won't compare to a Sole, Vision or even Horizon model...and, if you're used to a commercial unit then the Eclipse 2100HRA won't even come close to doing it for you.

In closing, the Eclipse 2100HRA isn't a bad unit...heck, in this price range its down right good...however, it doesn't really stack up to higher priced units. For being a pretty darn good under $500 elliptical, the Treadmill Sensei gives the Eclipse 2100HRA elliptical 2.5 out of 5 golden stars.

One of the few semi-decent sub-$500 ellipticals on the market,
the Eclipse 2100HRA gets 2.5 gold buddahs out of 5.



Eclipse 2100HRA Elliptical Specifications
Dual Action: Yes
Resistance: Electronic
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Programs: 12
Stride: 15"
Max User Weight Capacity: 275 lbs.
Unit Weight: 96 lbs.
Price: $499

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Reader Mailbag - Elliptical Advice for a tall person

Ohiyo!

Tonight we have a question that comes from one of our taller readers. Kevin comes in at 6'2" and has long legs. Let's see if we can help him figure out which elliptical is right for him!

First of all, AWESOME Blog. I read 10-12 political/sports blogs per day and your blog's content is second to none. Thanks so much for the information you give anyone with a computer.

I'm a 25 year old male who actually used to be somewhat athletic. I'm 6'2 but have legs that could fit on someone 6'4. Thus, stride length is important to me. Quality workout is the #1 factor for me.

I'd like to spend under $1000, but I want great value. Programs aren't that important to me, I just want a great, stable, sturdy workout that lets me stride naturally. I've found three possibilities on Amazon.com and would like your feedback in comparing them. If you have other suggestions, please let me know.

LifeSpan EX3 Elliptical ~ $1000
Spirit Fitness ZE120 Elliptical Trainer ~ $800
Mileage 1636 Elliptical ~ $800

Thanks in advance for your response, and again, GREAT BLOG! -Kevin

Kevin:

Thanks for the note and the very kind words. This site is a lot of fun for me to do and I'm glad I can give a little help to anyone looking to purchase a treadmill or elliptical. As a service tech, I know there are a lot of units out there and things get a bit confusing.

You've brought up some interesting choices. Spirit is always a good choice, especially if you can take advantage of Amazon's insanely low pricing that's going on right now (they're about $200+ lower than every one else out there). Click to check out my original review of the Spirit ZE120 . It's a great unit.

The other two companies aren't quite as known to the average consumer. The Mileage line is made by a company called JK Fitness which is best known for higher end commercial equipment. Not many people in our area purchase Mileage equipment so we don't see them very often at all (a few a year truthfully), but the Mileage 1636 elliptical looks to have some pretty decent stats. The only real negatives I see are the light user weight (which tends to mean a less sturdy elliptical), the Tunturi-style drive/elliptical design and the static footpads (which can be uncomfortable for longer length workouts). The adjustable stride length on the Mileage 1636 is a great feature as is the 22 pound flywheel which isn't bad at all for an elliptical under $1000.

Lifespan is another fairly unknown company when it comes to the mainstream consumer. They've been around for over 12 years now. Their marketing tends to be for a slightly older crowd. They don't get a whole lot of exposure, but when they do it tends to be high praise. The Lifespan EX3 Elliptical actually looks very similar to one of the older Reebok BodyTrek units (also known as the Sole E89 -- a really bad feeling elliptical). The Lifespan EX3 has some nice features, however in my opinion it feels more like a stepper than an elliptical. I know that sounds crazy because of the 20" stride but it's true. The feeling is much more vertical than elliptical. It's a very nice unit it just doesn't have that true comfortable elliptical feel.

If you're buying a unit online without trying a unit out and want to make sure you're getting a great feeling machine, then the Spirit ZE120 elliptical is an excellent choice. Especially since Amazon seems to be running a super low-price sale on them -- and, based on what I know of Spirit and its strict pricing policies, I doubt that price will last. But, even at the regular price it's a a great elliptical...the Sole E25 version of the unit (basically the Spirit ZE120 with a different paint job) is my top choice for a unit under $1000.

However, everyone has different opinions when it comes to what feels good. You might find you like the static pedal style of the Mileage 1636 or the slight stepper feel of the Lifespan EX3. Your best bet is to get out there and try a few units out before you make your buy.

I hope I've helped! Take care and I'll see you all with another review tomorrow!

UPDATE! I just got in a quick response from Kevin...and some very kind comments. Here's his note:

Thanks for your help.

I had the same concern about the Mileage 1636's weight. I wasn't sure if the EX3 worth worth the extra $$$, but the "stairstepper" comparison scared me off. I'm going with the ZE120... I really had myself convinced after reading your blog entry about it from last year, but wanted to get your feedback first.

You should really consider trying to get your reviews published to earn some extra cash. They are BY FAR the most thorough and straightforward information I've found on ellipticals.

You are also a class act. This is on top of all of knowledge you possess and communicate so very well to your readers. Thanks Again. - Kevin

I'm glad I could be of some small assistance, Kevin. Good luck with your elliptical and I hope you like it. Feel free to come back and let us know how it worked out! Take care!

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The Quantum 2.5s Treadmill Review - High End Performance at a Great Price

Ohiyo!

The Treadmill Sensei is about to be a very happy man. You see, my daughter (the greatest daughter in the entire universe, mind you), is about to have her very first child. A boy. This will be the greatest grandson in the entire universe in spite of the fact that my daughter will not be naming it after me. I blame the father.

Until that joyous moment I will be sitting here at my computer writing treadmill reviews for you, the greatest readers in the entire universe.

With the release of the first annual Ichi-Ban Awards back at the end of 2006, I have had a lot of questions about a couple of my choices. The biggest one being, who the heck is Quantum Fitness and how did this unknown company score 2 treadmills on my best buy list?

Well, while Quantum isn't one of the best known names in treadmills and ellipticals, they have been producing a lot of high quality gym equipment since the early 1990s. That's right, this "unknown" company has actually been around for almost 20 years now and is doing very well for itself.

Quantum, best known for their superb Power Crunch 600 ab machine, began producing treadmills and ellipticals recently and I must say I have been very impressed by the units. The specific unit I'm writing about today is the Quantum 2.5s Treadmill, which is one of their high end home units and a definite threat to every other brand on the market.

You see, the very first thing you'll notice when you get on a Quantum 2.5s treadmills is how damn solid they are. They are probably some of the sturdiest, well built units short of the nearly perfect Matrix T3X treadmills. That's right, you really can get something that feels like a Matrix for just under $2000. The strange thing is Quantum's low rating of a 300 pound max user weight. From toying around with a couple of the units in the DOJO I would have rated them at closer to 375 or so...I don't really see the structural difference between a Quantum 2.5s and its more expensive Q 2.5 treadmill. The only apparent difference is the Q 2.5's thicker belt and added pulse grip heart rate monitor. Aside from that they seem to be identical.

In addition to the solid steel frame and engineering, the Quantum 2.5s treadmill also comes with a fantastic 20"x60" running area (once you've run on a larger deck it's tough to go smaller, even for a shorter guy like me), an awesome 2.5 hp motor, 16 programs, nice sized 2.5" rollers to increase the life of your belt and motor, and the made in the USA seal. Great stuff.

I would have liked to have seen the Max speed set at 12 or 15 mph and the incline tweaked up to 15% as well, but that is very much just me nitpicking. The only other minor problem is putting the machine together. Mounting the console on the top of the upright struts can be a bit of a pain due to hole placement and angle. It doesn't take the Treadmill Sensei that long to put one together but I can imagine it could be a bit frustrating to someone not expecting it. Still, the annoyance isn't that big of a deal and I very highly recommend checking out the Quantum 2.5s treadmill.

For being an excellent machine and an excellent price, the Treadmill Sensei awards the Quantum 2.5s Treadmill with 4 out of 5 golden buddahs.

The Quantum 2.5s Treadmill gets a very good rating of 4 gold buddahs out of 5 from the Treadmill Sensei.


Click to get more information or to purchase the Quantum 2.5s Treadmill for the lowest price online!

Quantum 2.5s Treadmill Specifications
Motor: 2.5 HP
Frame: Steel
Max User Weight: 300 lbs.
Max Speed: 10 MPH
Incline: 12%
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Programs: 16
Display Type: LED w/ Dot Matrix display
Readouts: Heart Rate, Speed, Incline, Time, Calorie, Distance, Pace, Calories per Hour, Laps
Made In: USA
Treadmill Weight: 300 lbs.
Roller Size: 2.5"
Running Area: 20" x 60"

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Reader Mailbag - The Spirit XE150 vs the Spirit XE350 Elliptical

Ohiyo!

Today your Treadmill Sensei tries to help out a customer with a question about a couple of Spirit Ellipticals. Sometimes it gets confusing even when trying to compare two ellipticals from the same company. Let's see if we can help her out!

I am looking for a decent elliptical machine without spending a ton of money. In looking at your reviews for both the Spirit XE150
and the Spirit XE350, I noticed that you gave the XE150 five golden buddahs and the XE350 only 4 golden buddahs. But your reviews for them seem similar other than some differences in features. Can you tell me why one got a slightly better review than the other? Also, have you had a chance to look at the Spirit XE550?
Thank you. --Britt

Britt:

Thanks for your note! You've actually asked a pretty easy question for me to answer. I rate ellipticals and treadmills on not only their features and specifications but also on their price point. In other words, if the Spirit XE150
elliptical and the Spirit XE350 elliptical were both priced at $50 (I'm just making up a price here), then the XE350 would blow the XE150 away. However, since there is a price difference between the two, I rate the XE150 a bit higher because of the price -- I don't think the XE350 gives you quite as much for your dollar as the XE150. Also, the compeition in the price range is fierce and I'm comparing the ellipticals against each other.

It's not a scientific system...it's just based on my experience and gut reaction.

You can check out the Spirit XE150 review HERE and the Spirit XE350 elliptical review HERE. The XE550 was in my top rated list for the $1500-$2000 price range. I haven't done an XE550 review yet, but keep an eye out here over the next couple of weeks and I'll try to get one up.

Thanks again Britt and I hope this helps!

Get more info or purchase on the Spirit XE150 and entire Spirit Line...save 3% with the code TMSENSEI

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Announcement: We're going to IHRSA 2007!

Ohiyo!

We've just gotten it confirmed, the Treadmill Sensei will be at the 2007 IHRSA show in San Francisco on March 28-31, 2007. The DOJO won't have a booth or anything like that, but a couple of the senseis, including myself, will be wandering the floor for at least 2 days of the show. If you're a manufacturer premiering new equipment at the show then drop me a line so I make sure to stop by and take a look.

I'm hoping to get a chance to look at some new treadmills and ellipticals, or perhaps a couple of older ones I haven't really had a chance to work on yet.

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The Smooth CE7.4 Elliptical -- Smooth in name and performance

Ohiyo!

The Treadmill Sensei hasn't done many Smooth Fitness equipment reviews at this point and I wanted to rectify that. We just received in a fantastic Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical here at the DOJO and I knew that I needed to review. You see, since 1997, Smooth Fitness has been producing some of the best fitness equipment on the internet. I say "on the internet" because Smooth sells its product direct to consumers online. There are no real Smooth Fitness dealers aside from places like Amazon. One of the great things about that is it lets Smooth control its product and the quality of its distribution. They don't need to worry about shady dealers selling out of warranty product or rippping off their potential customers.

2008 Ichi-Ban Best Buy Award Winner.

Smooth really and truly puts out some great treadmills and ellipticals. Today, I'd like to go over one of their top units, the Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical. While I ranked the CE7.4 elliptical as coming in second to the SportsArt 803, it was a tough choice. Both of these units are great and only the adjustable stride on the SportsArt let it take the top spot.

First and foremost, the Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical is incredibly solid and has one of the smoothest (no pun intended) feels in any elliptical at any price. This things are like riding on a cloud. The reason for the great ride is the sturdiness of the CE7.4, the very heavy duty flywheel (30+ pounds I'd guess), the articulating footpads which mimic natural foot movement, and their rollerless design. Any of these factors alone would make for a nice elliptical, but Smooth puts them all together in their CE7.4 elliptical and the result is one of the best all around ellipticals on the market.

If you're looking for the best of the best in ellipticals, and easily one of the best under $2000, then check out the Smooth CE7.4 elliptical. For being damn good, the Smooth CE7.4 gets 4.5 out of 5 golden buddahs from the Treadmill Sensei!

The Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical gets 4.5 gold buddahs out of 5!



Click here for more information or to order the Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical.



Smooth CE7.4 Elliptical Specifications
Stride: 21"
Max Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
Resistance: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 16
Heart Rate Monitor: pulse grip and wireless
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Programs: 8
Display: LED
Readouts: Time, speed, RPM, distance, course profiles, watts, pulse, heart rate, calories, resistance levels, metabolic equivalents and target heart rate
Included Accessories: Wireless heart rate monitor
Special Feature: Lifetime warranty
Grade: Residential
Cost: $1999

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The Spirit XE125 Elliptical Review - Great elliptical for shorter owners

Ohiyo!

Today the Treadmill Sensei is a very happy camper. You see, even tho Mrs. Sensei doesn't really like it, I play the Lotto every day and today I won almost $600! Very exciting stuff. Not fitness related but still cool. Drinks on the Treadmill Sensei tonight!

We get a lot of email here at the DOJO about a wide variety items. Below you'll find one I get asked about fairly often -- elliptical stride for shorter owners.

Sensei - You've got a great blog...very helpful to a new buyer like my wife and me! We are trying to find the perfect elliptical for us, but most of what you rate has a longer stride...but I'm only 5'5" tall and my wife is 5'1". We're looking for something that is good quality but is still comfortable for us. Are we stuck with lower end ellipticals with a shorter stride or is there something good out there for us? Thanks and keep up the good work!!
William in Wisconsin

William:

Thanks for the note and, as a shorter man myself, I know your pain! If you're on the shorter side there actually is a great machine out there for you -- high quality with an 18" stride. The Spirit XE125 is easily the best elliptical around with an 18" stride AND it's got a good, under $1000 price.

The Spirit XE125 is almost exactly the same unit as the slightly higher priced ZE120 but has the shorter 18" stride, which is perfect for those of us who are vertically challenged. The XE125 has a large sized, 24 pound flywheel (some people rate the ZE120 as a 23 pound wheel, but I think they're exactly the same) and weighs almost 200 pounds itself! This is a very sturdy unit that far surpasses anything else in its range, especially other ellipticals with 18" strides.

The rest of the Spirit XE125 features are just as nice -- 16 levels of magnetic resistance, 13 programs, heart rate control and monitoring. Over all this is a great unit. Check it out if you're a small person who is tired of living life by the rules of a tall society!

UPDATE: After an increasing number of problems from this unit it has been recalled by Spirit. As such, the Treadmill Sensei downgrades it to a 0 out of 5. Be careful if you see one of these still for sale online. If you're looking for a comparable unit without the QC or recall issues, check out the Sole E25 Elliptical.

Now downgraded, the Treadmill Sensei gives the Spirit XE125 elliptical 0 out of 5 golden buddahs.

The Spirit XE125 gets 0 gold buddahs out of 5.


It's a good thing this one was recalled before they sold too many of them!

Spirit XE125 Elliptical Trainer Specifications
Stride Length: 18"
Flywheel: 24 pounds
Bi-Directional: Yes
Max User Weight: 300 lbs.
Resistance: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 16
Programs: 13
Display: LCD
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse grip and wireless
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Features: Fan, water bottle holder
Grade: Residential
Size: 62" x 23" x 65"
Weight: 194 lbs.
Cost: Under $1000

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The Tunturi T30 Treadmill Review - The Finest in Finnish Fitness!

Ohiyo!

Today your Treadmill Sensei would like to ruminate a bit on a fitness company a lot of American buyers may not be as familiar with, but our Canadian and European cousins have known about for many years.

The name of the company is Tunturi and they are a fitness company from Finland which has been around since the early 1920s. The company was founded by a pair of brothers who repaired bicycles. They quickly moved on to manufacturing and designing bikes. In the 1950s they began manufacturing motorcycles and mopeds.

Fast forwarding to the 1970s, Tunturi began to put out some of the best stationary fitness bikes in the world. The credo behind the company has always been well-built, simple and to the point equipment. They put out some very well constructed, very long lasting treadmills, ellipticals and bikes.

Unfortunately, at least in my mind, their designs tend to be a little outdated and simplistic for the American market. They manufacture some great machines but without all the bells and whistles seen in most of the rest of the industry.

Luckily, the Tunturi T30 treadmill is a fantastic unit which offers a lot - even if it isn't quite as slick looking as its competition. The units are generally listed at about $1699. We received in a Tunturi T30 at the shop earlier this week to setup at a film director's house out in Beverly Hills and I was eager to get the unit together and test it out.

Right out of the box, the Tunturi T30 was a pleasure to work with. Actual assembly on the unit was very quick and easy to do -- less than 5 minutes for us, probably 20 minutes for the uninitiated.

First and foremost, the Tunturi T30 is a solid, stable and sturdy treadmill. More importantly it's construction and components are made with the care Tunturi has been known for through its 80+ years of business. When you get on a T30 you feel like you're getting on a rock solid piece of commercial equipment.

Next, what I like to do is pop the hood off and take a look at what's going on with the motor. I must say, the Fins do good work. The Tunturi T30 has a very large, incredibly quiet and cool running 3.0 horsepower motor in it. In fact, the T30's motor was one of the smoothest, most consistant feel motor I've seen in a very long time as well as the quietest. If you're in an apartment or condo and need to keep the noise down then the Tunturi T30 is something to take a look at.

Let's do a quick rundown on the rest of the Tunturi T30's features. The unit itself weighs about 247 pounds and is rated for users up to 300 pounds -- if you weigh in excess to 300 pounds you should still be fine as the treadmill is rock solid. Its top speed is 12.5 mph (20 kilometers per hour) with up to a 12% incline. A nice feature is Tunturi's heart rate control system which will adjust not only the speed on the unit but also the incline. A lot of HRC systems on less treadmills will only adjust the speed. The T30 also has 7 preset and 3 user defined programs.

Finally, the T30 has a great 58x20 running area. Lots of room to run!

All-in-all, Tunturi has done an excellent job with these new T30 treadmills. For excellence in design and execution, the Treadmill Sensei gives the Tunturi T30 treadmill 4 out of 5 golden buddahs.

As a step about the rest of the Tunturi equipment, the Tunturi T30 treadmill gets 4 gold buddahs out of 5.



Compare the Tunturi T30 Treadmill and save

Tunturi T30 Treadmill Specifications
Motor: 3.0 HP

Running Area: 58x20
Max User Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Max Speed: 12.5 MPH
Max Incline: 12%
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse grip and wireless
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Programs: 10
Display: LED
Display: Time, distance, speed, elevation, energy consumption, and heart rate
Features: Shock-absorbent T-Flex running base, remote handling speed and incline controls
Manufactured In: Finland

Cost: Under $1700

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The Spirit XT10 Treadmill - a best buy under $1500

Ohiyo!

Once more from the depths of innerspace comes the wisdom of the Treadmill Sensei. Well, truth be known, it's more like from the depths of the bathroom because I had a nasty case of food poisoning that kept me out of service for about a day and a half! We tried a new Japanese restaurant in San Diego and I got a bit of bad beef teriyaki. I must say that vomiting incessantly for 24 hours gives one of the best ab workouts I've ever experienced. Someone should market it. Call it the "supermodel ab workout."

But I digress.

Now that I'm back to normal (my wife says that calling myself "normal" might be a bit generous...and my mother-in-law agrees), I'm going to get back to finish up my Ichi-Ban Award winner reviews. Today I'd like to start with one of the truly great treadmills in the $1000-1500 range, the Spirit XT10 treadmill.

If you're looking for a nice step up from the Sole F63 but aren't ready to move up almost $800 to the F83, then the Spirit XT10 is an excellent choice. It offers everything the higher end units offer but at a much lower price. Sure, it's got a slightly smaller motor under the hood, but with a large 2.75 HP motor in there you'll never notice the difference. The Spirit XT10 is one of the biggest and baddest treadmills in this price range.

The XT10 treadmill features the same basic base set up as many of Spirit's other units (unless I'm mistaken, it's either the same deck as the Z88/XT9 or a very similar one). It features slightly beefier upright bars than the Z88 which will provide you with a bit more stability. You also get a 12 mph top speed and a great 15% incline.

All in all, the Spirit XT10 gives you more features for your dollar than anything else at this level. In fact, if the deck size were large it would have been the Treadmill Sensei's top pick under $1500. However, at 55x20, the running area on the Spirit XT10 treadmill is more than enough for all but the heaviest duty of runners.

I had Hikaru do a round of jumping jacks on the XT10 to test out the stability and was very impressed. Hikaru is not a small guy and the unit held up exceptionally well to his weight. I think the 300 pound max user capacity might actually be a little underrated in this case. The treadmill can handle weights up to 300 pounds very nicely (normally, you subtract 50 pounds from whatever the listed weight capacity is and use that as a guide, in spite of what most manufacturers would have you believe -- but not in this case). That added level of stability in addition to the giant 2.75hp motor makes the Spirit XT10 treadmill and excellent choice for runners, large families, or small office gyms.

For another above average treadmill, the Treadmill Sensei gives the Spirit XT10 Treadmill 3.5 out of 5 golden buddahs.

UPDATE: This unit has been discontinued and is sold out. Try the upgraded 2008 Sole F80 Treadmill for the best buy award winning treadmill alternative.

The gets Spirit XT10 3.5 gold buddahs out of 5.


Find out more about the Spirit XT10. Save an additional 3% with coupon code TMSENSEI.


Spirit XT 10 Treadmill Specifications
Horsepower: 2.75 HP
Max Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Folding: Yes
Max Speed: 12 MPH
Max Incline: 15%
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
Heart Rate Control: Yes
Programs: 10
Display: LED
Special Features: 1/4 track
Roller Size: 2.5"
Deck Thickness: 1"
Running Area: 20"W x 55"L

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

The LifeGear Dual Action Magnetic Elliptical - A good little elliptical for under $250

Ohiyo!

The Treadmill Sensei loves to save money...I wouldn't say I'm cheap (although my wife might!), but I do like getting the most for my dollar. Unfortunately, with ellipticals and treadmills it's tough to really save money and get a great machine, especially when you're looking for a unit under $300. Like I've said before, there is no magical machine that is going to feel commercial and cost $250. I wish I could tell you otherwise but I can't.

When you're looking at an elliptical in the extremely low price point what you're looking for is stability and sturdiness. You won't find programs, you won't find a completely smooth elliptical motion (they tend to feel more like a "D" shape than an elliptical) and you won't get a long stride. In fact, a sub $250 elliptical is really just for people who do very light workouts a couple of times a week -- under 30 minutes three times a week is perfect for these machines.

LifeGear has been around since the early 1990s. They manufacturer low-low end equipment that hasn't done a whole lot to set itself out from the crowd at this point. Surprisingly, tho, they have put out an interesting little machine in their very long named LifeGear dual action magnetic elliptical, also known as the LifeGear 93810. We've never actually gotten one of these units in at the repair shop because of their lower price. However, everyone who knows me knows to bring over any new fitness equipment they or their friends or family purchase. I love tinkering around on and trying out every elliptical I can get my grubby little hands on! I was able to give the LifeGear dual action magnetic elliptical a quick workout recently...and here's what I found!

The LifeGear elliptical is very lightweight but will hold up better than most of the other units in this price range. Compared to the Tony Little machines it's rock solid. The machine is stripped down and offers no programs, 8 levels of resistance and a single button monitor where you can scroll through 5 different pieces of workout information. Interestingly, I couldn't find any information on the stride length for this unit. I measured it myself and it seems to have about a 14" stride...maybe as long as 14.5".

My single warning is that while the manufacturer says the LifeFear Elliptical can handle users up to 250 pounds, I wouldn't push that weight. It's best with users under 175 pounds or so. Anything beyond that and it gets a little shakey.

For not being as bad as everything else in its price range, the Treadmill Sensei gives the LifeGear 93810 3 out of 5 golden buddahs.

The LifeGear dual action magnetic elliptical gets 3 gold buddahs out of 5
for NOT being a Tony Little Gazelle!



LifeGear Dual Action Magnetic Elliptical Specifications
Stride: 14"
Flywheel: 16 lbs
Heart Rate Monior: Pulse grip
Resistance: 8 levels
Max Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
Monitor: LCD
Readouts: time, speed, distance, hand pulse and approximate calories burned

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Reader Mailbag - Ohiyo from Ohio

Ohiyo!

A quick non-fitness related email from Debi.

Thanks for the review on the Reebok RL 900. We own this machine and are enjoying it but it was good to read your information on the importance of maintenance.

BTW - I am also of Japanese heritage and just wanted to point out a common error - Ohaiyo (ohaiyogozaimasu) is the correct spelling rather than Ohiyo. I have been tempted to make the same error myself. :-)

Thanks again for the good info. I forwarded to a friend that is interested in the RL900 too.

Akemashite omedetogoziamas! (Happy New Year) - Debi

Debi:

Thanks for the note and I'm glad the Reebok RL900 review helped! About Ohiyo vs Ohaiyo: back in the early days of this blog I received a very nice email from a man named Johnny who titled it "Ohiyo from Ohio." At the time it made me snicker very much so I adopted it. Unfortunately, it confused people since I wasn't actually from Ohio, so I shorted it with later usage, keeping the misspelling of Ohaiyo in place. If that's the only grammatical error someone points out about my writing then I'm in good shape!

Thanks again and enjoy your elliptical!!

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Reader Mailbag - Sole vs Smooth Treadmills

Ohiyo!

Today the Treadmill Sensei feels old! The family and I spent the day at DisneyLand and all of the walking really wore me down. I'm just not the nubile young Sensei I was in the past. It was the last day of the Christmas DisneyLand set up and Mrs. Sensei wanted the see it before they took everything down. As always, it was a blast but tiring.

Due to the huge amount of emails I get here at the DOJO from readers looking for help, I'm going to try to answer a few here on the blog every day. If you send in an email and don't get a response, drop back by here and you may find your questions answered right here on the website. Also keep in mind that if you send in an email it may be published on the web. If you don't want your email publicized then make sure to let me know.

The first question of the day is a common one, Sole vs Smooth.

I just read your very helpful treadmill blog. I was wondering what your opinion is on Smooth treadmills. I was considering buying their 5.25 and 6.25 model and also Sole F63 and F80. I am very confused, though I think I have narrowed it down to these 4 choices. My family will all use it. My husband and I are both about 190 lbs (he's about 6 feet tall and I am much smaller) and my 3 teenaged kids, too. If you could help me choose, I'd really appreciate it.
Happy New Year! -Reb

Reb:

Thanks for your note! I get a lot of questions about comparing Smooth and Sole treadmills - they are the two leading companies when it comes to higher quality consumer equipment. From a quality standpoint you can't go wrong with either company. Their reputations are well deserved.
In regards to your specific questions of the Smooth 5.25/6.25 versus the Sole F63/F80, the units are all very similar in specs and even warranty. The Smooth 6.25 has a larger motor than the rest, but the Sole units have the edge in running area. If you're looking for the best bargin then the Sole F63 treadmill wins just about every time. The reason being that it's the same unit as the Sole F80 with a consumer grade console on it. It does have a shorter warranty, but most retailers will be able to give you an extended warranty for 2 years at around $100 which still beats the price of the other units.

All of the treadmills you mention, Smooth and Sole, will work well for your 6' husband to run or jog on (even running should be comfortable for him, but marathon training may be out because the decks are a little short for extremely long strides). They are also all sturdy machines which will hold up to teenagers.

I'd suggest the Sole F63 treadmill as the best bet at under $1500 right now, but you should be happy whichever way you go.

Take care and Happy New Year to you and your family!

For more information or to purchase the Sole F63 click above.
Save 3% with the Code TMSENSEI.

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Fitnex home units downgraded to NO BUY

Ohiyo!

It is with a heavy heart that I must retract one of my earlier recommendations. The Treadmill Sensei received word from a number of people in the industry that Fitnex no longer offers a lifetime warranty when their equipment is used in a home setting. Unfortunately, what this means is the majority of their equipment just doesn't stand up to other units in their price range. Their treadmill decks are too short for the cost and their ellipticals a bit too bumpy. With a lifetime warranty, these problems can be overlooked.

Now, the higher end commercial Fitnex E70 elliptical is still a fantastic machine and is still a best buy, but their residential units should just be avoided as lower mid grade equipment.

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com

Article Index

Treadmill Sensei Article Index:

• Ici Ban Best Buy Awards for 2006-2007 - Ellipticals
• Ichi Ban Best Buy Awards for 2006-2007 - Treadmills
• The Home Buyers Guide to Choosing a Treadmill
• The Home Buyers Guide to Choosing an Elliptical Trainer
• Buying Online vs Offline
• Retailer response to "Buying Online vs Offline"
• The Lifetime Warranty Scam -- What does a Lifetime Warranty Really Mean?
• Remanufactured Treadmills, Ellipticals and Fitness Equipment -- Why and How to Buy It Without Getting Ripped Off!
• Treadmill Maintenance -- 11 Tips for the care of your treadmill
• The Landice Treadmill Mystery Solved -- Which unit is right for you
• How to replace your treadmill belt
• Care and Cleaning of your treadmill motor
• The fitness name game -- what you're really buying
• Reviews -- How does the Treadmill Sensei rate treadmills and Ellipticals?
• Adjusting your treadmill speed settings
• Top 5 Treadmills Under $1000 for Sept 2006
• The Proform Treadmill Problem
• The Sensei Bows to No One!
• On the Road: Pictures from IHRSA 2007
• What does horsepower mean?
• Treadmill / Elliptical Delivery Explained
• Tips to burn more Calories during a workout
• Treadmill Online Chooser
• Elliptical Online Chooser
• Why An Elliptical Makes Your Feet Fall Asleep

-The Treadmill Sensei
http://www.treadmillsensei.com