Ohiyo!

New Best Buy Ellipticals: Just as the Best buy treadmills list, the elliptical list considers affordability. As we all know, there are some folks out there with unlimited budgets, if so, choose the most expensive on the list and you cannot go wrong!

Most Comfortable Elliptical:

Number 5: Avari GX 8 Elliptical Cross trainer (MSRP $2,273)…. a surprisingly good elliptical trainer from Stamina . The Avari® GX8 Elliptical Trainer features the patent pending Up-Link technology for a more balanced elliptical workout. Up-Link lets you work harder with your upper body or emphasizes your lower body. And you control your workout.

Number 4: Spirit XE 500 (MSRP $2,299) The Spirit Elliptical Trainer XE-500 is an elliptical trainer featuring a great stride for a natural jogging motion, it also offers 20 levels of resistance, and many standard features to encourage a great total body workout.

Number 3: Proform 780CSE ($999) another Icon product with a good feel and price. Many of these units have been sold and I believe most of the bugs have vanished. Give this one a try if price is a concern?

Number 2: Smooth CE 7.4 HR ($1,999) from our pervious writings you will see this unit has come a long way! Smooth is one of the oldest companies selling on the internet. This product has earned its legs!

The Quietest Treadmill Winner:The Sole E35 ($1,299) great offering from Sole with stride to fit everyone. The adjustable ramp from 15 to 40 degrees adds to the comfort.

Best Programming for Ellipticals

Number 5: Horizon EX 68 (MSRP $999) for less than $1k you get a great machine. Programming includes 11 program options with on-the-fly changes plus Advanced Goal Center™ Not very pretty, but you buy this one to Buda-fy yourself!!!!

Number 4: Life Fitness X 7 ($3,999) Remarkable product for the price! Whisper eStride technology provides remarkably quiet, fluid electronic stride adjustments from 18 to 24 inches. This advanced elliptical cross-trainer with Advanced Workouts Console provides synchronized upper- and lower-body movement. 15 programs with 2 user levels. Pricey over $3K for a life time of elliptical training…. Club quality for your home!

Number 3: True ESXt ($4,999) another masterpiece from a company that offers the Bentley of Fitness Products. The level of customization is remarkable, Manual, Quick Start, One Big Hill, Easy Intervals, Sport Intervals, Variable mix3, Custom mix3, Upper-Body Only, Glute Buster. If you have the bucks for this unit buy it! Big Buda award!!!!!

Number 2: Horizon GS 1050E ($799) simple machine with a lot of features 9 program options with on-the-fly changes plus Advanced Goal Center™ with 3 targets (Time, Distance, Calories) and 3 workouts (Rolling, Mountain, Reverse Train), 1-31 day goal tracking. A great value for less than $1K.

The Best Cushioned Treadmill Winner: Esprit EL 555 ($902) Spirit has come a long way in the past few years. Although they have been around a while, they did not hit their stride until Dyaco purchased them six years ago. The Esprit lineup offers 5 preset programs, 2 user programs, and 2 Heart Rate Control programs for great value.

Fits in the Home Best- The Best Looking Ellipticals

Number 5: Schwinn 431 E ($999) this unit is a great value for the $$$ price. By emulating the natural motion of your foot while supporting your heel throughout the stride, elliptical trainers are much easier on your knees and joints. Attractive but functional!

Number 4: Horizon EX 58 ($799) Derived from extensive biomechanics research and user panel testing, SIXstar Certification™ is a unique combination of the six key elements needed to deliver the smoothest, most natural elliptical feel and appearance available. One eye pleaser to impress your friends.

Number 3: Lifespan EL 3000i ($1,399) The centerpiece of the EL3000i, however, is the multicolored LCD console, which offers several simultaneous readouts and exercise programs to help you achieve your health and fitness goals. As a bonus, when you purchase a LifeSpan EL3000i elliptical trainer, you automatically receive a membership for the LifeSpan Fitness Club. This comprehensive online health management program, powered by the Interactive Health Partner, lets you select exercise programs, track and manage your fitness and health results, and receive motivating support as you work toward achieving your goals. Buddha is very happy with this unt…..

Number 2: Sole E 55 ($1,499) This step up design from Sole has been one of their crown jewels. It look is second only to the Smooth DMT. Clean lines and space effectiveness makes this a winner.

The Best looking Treadmill Winner: Smooth DMT X1 elliptical trainer ($1,999) this is the Sensei’s most beautiful pick this is a “Katsushika Hokusai “work of art. Beautiful in any décor. The function is great with many programs for you entertainment.

Best Feel Ellipticals

Number 5: Smooth DMT x2 Agile trainer ($2,499) as written earlier this is a work of art and it’s functional. You do get the I-pod docking station with a few added features not found in the programs of the DMT1. Great value!

Number 4: Schwinn 430 E ($799) not to rehash a product from above, but this unit is a great value for the $$$ price. By emulating the natural motion of your foot while supporting your heel throughout the stride, elliptical trainers are much easier on your knees and joints. This unit is attractive and functional!

Number 3: Precor EFX 5.25 Elliptical Crosstrainer ($3,399) 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. The 5.25 is another example if price is not a problem.

Number 2: Spirit Esprit EL 7 ($2,099) Good unit it has a couple of years in the field and the Sensei hasn’t heard a lot of weeping. Great stride range and smooth flow. Good value for in the $1,250 price range.

The Strongest Motor Treadmill Winner: Epic EL 2980 ($1,500) Another hit from Icon. The oversized pedals allow you a number of different foot positions and provide great stability as you exercise. With a stainless steel glide track and upgraded bushing, this heavy-duty elliptical operates much smoother than your average elliptical. A great value in the $1,500 price.

The Best for NON Foot Numbness

Number 5: Free Motion S5.6 Elliptical ($1,699) The FreeMotion pattern travels in an Inverted Arch to increase range of motion, flexibility and strength. It moves the way you move, naturally. Human movement can only be designed into a machine using an Inverted Arch. The FreeMotion maximizes joint angles for dynamic mobility. Shorter strides fire calves and gluts, mid strides work gluts and quads, and longer strides burn hamstrings. It’s training with this natural movement that increases performance in Sports and Life. This unit is a bit pricy but if you can afford the price tag buy it!

Number 4: Nordic Trac Free Strider 35S ($1,299) 35 inch stride length range-longest stride available. More of a stepper than elliptical trainer the price is in the $3K range, but not a bad machine for the price. Get a complete workout with the NordicTrack FreeStrider 35 S. This fitness solution combines the high-calorie burn of incline training with the low-impact stride of an elliptical to give you the top-of-the-line in performance training

Number 3: Xterra FS420e (1,499) Great curb appeal on this unit. It’s a new product from an old company Dyaco. Parts and warranty will be good from their parent company. This machine is positioned to be the Spirit of the big box world. Time and Dyaco energy will tell, but overall a good solid machine.

Number 2: Smooth CE3.2 ($1,399) again larger foot stance means less numbness. Smooth is second to Sole only because of the lack of tilt on the pedals. The CE3.2 is a great value for years of fitness goals.

The Best Programmed Treadmill Winner: Sole e 95 ($1,699) the feet / pedals of all Sole elliptical trainers are tilted 2 degrees to insure the proper stance. This is very important. Why? Most people think elliptical machine are linear in travel not the case. The pedals of an elliptical trainer are very similar to cross country skiing; you are pushing on the ski / pedals outward not sliding back and forth. This means fewer traumas on the ankles and less numbness over an extended workout.

Ohiyo!

This is always a favorite time of year when the best and the brightest try and outdo the competition with either amazing new features or super affordable prices. With the way the economy is shaping up, a major consideration for every item on this list is affordability. That is what I try and accomplish when coming up with these ratings. Because I know that there are those with unlimited means, I have also made that information available.

The Top 5 Quietest Treadmills

Number 5: Landice L7 Cardio Trainer (MSRP $4,195)…. the runners dream if you are into a quality unit. For around $3K you have a unit that will stand the winds of time.

Number 4: Lifespan TR200 (MSRP $799) you can fold and store this one. It quiet possibly will fit under the bed. Very easy to install. Not for an avid runner, but great if you want to walk.

Number 3: Smooth 9.35 HR ($1,999) Very quiet almost can’t hear it running. Has some very nice features as well! This machine has won many awards for value and we give our blessing on this machine.

Number 2:Merit Fitness 725T ($424) This is a quiet machine made by Dyaco (also make Spirit Brand Fitness Equipment). The F63 is a little louder than the Spirit XT, but at half the cost, I would expect a little noise.

The Quietest Treadmill Winner:The Sole F80 ($1,999) Sole again this year gets the highest Buddha awards for quietness. The F/80 is a work horse! It has produced year after year. These guys work hard to produce products that get the Sensei’s attention year after year.

Best Cushioned Treadmill

Number 5: Horizon T90 (MSRP $799) this is a tried and tested unit. Also manufactures of the new "Live Strong" product seen in Dicks. Go solid unit for a good reasonable price.

Number 4: NordicTrack T7 si ($999) these guys just keep kicking it up a notch! Lot of features with a good price and value, and how about the I-fit feature for your workout ? This unit has many adjustable cushion comforts for the lite user to the 350 lb. user.

Number 3: Sole TT8 ($2,300) Another product from Sole. It has been in their lineup for a while, but a great value. This unit has a 22" wide belt. Large unit for the larger person needing to get the Buddha belly out of the way!

Number 2: Reebok Vista 8500 ($999) great treadmill for the price. You can adjust the level of cushioned comfort on the side of the machine. Great idea- – - – Buda should have thought of this one!

The Best Cushioned Treadmill Winner: Esprit ET588 ($1,599) new number for a tried and tested unit. We have seen some great changes coming for this company. They have the same manufacture as Sole, but different look.

Best Looking, Best fit in the Home environment.

Number 5: Bowflex Series 7 ($1,499) great look from a company that is king of the informal. The blue backlit LCD is a nice feature to this product. Bowflex does not lack for lo
oks of this beast. It is the best offering from this company.

Number 4:Lifefitness T7.0 ($4,699) This treadmill is quite unique looking. It is on the small side and does not overtake a room like many pieces of exercise equipment can do so easily. LifeSpan has a unique motor under design that is sleek with out losing any power.

Number 3: True ES 9.0 ($5,899) The god’s of Mt. Fuji fall in awe to this product. Reason it’s not number one is the price. This product is for that customer with a budget unlimited by worldly financial constants. It is a magnificent product for those of you that can afford it!

Number 2: Sole F83 ($1,800) sole produces again with a great look for a reasonable price. Lot of nice features to go with the décor of any home, and a name you can’t go wrong with Sole.

The Best looking Treadmill Winner: Epic View 550 ($999) For the price and value looks are not everything, but this little unit is worthy of my dojo.

The Strongest Motor Treadmills

Number 5: Epic T60 ($1,099) 350 lbs. weight capacity and 3 HP motor need I say more!

Number 4: Sole F63 ($1,000) this unit keeps getting rewarded because after three years of being in the field it still works. Good value and good product.

Number 3: Xterra TR250 ($1,299) this a Dyaco product similar to Spirit. Nice features from a new comer this year. The 2.25 HP motor on the 20 X 55 belt is powerful.

Number 2: Horizon T6 ($2,199) to go 12 miles per hour and carry a 20 X 60 belt this 3 HP motor delivers. With the price just over $2K it will carry a great load.

The Strongest Motor Treadmill Winner: Smooth 5.45 ($999) smooth has been around enough years now to know the motor is one area you do not lessen. Sure there are other components just as important. Smooth delivers with this 2.5 HP beauty.

The Best Programming for Treadmills

Number 5: Pacemaster Platinum Pro VR ($2,699) Nice machine from a fantastic company. Wish they did more to sell over the net, but they have found a great market in the specialty fitness dealer. Find a good used one on the net buy it!

Number 4: Sole F85 ($2,000) Sole has had this unit for a few years and enjoyed get results. The programs are not as great as some of the top three, but you can’t go wrong with a Sole of any kind.

Number 3: Endurance TF 61HRC (N/A) good machine for features, 20 Built in Programs: Endurance, Running, Interval, Cardiovascular, Walking, Fat Burn plus, Heart rate control standard. Price over $2K but worth the effort

Number 2: Horizon T91 ($799) 9 preprograms with a user capacity of 275 l
bs. you can get years of enjoyment for the whole family from this little samurai.

The Best Programmed Treadmill Winner: Epic 450MX ($999) with 6 preprogrammed , 4 learned, and 2 heart rate programs and a great prices it’s by far the best Sensei value. Great machine!

OHIYO!

Horizon is featuring the T1200 treadmill for an amazing $999! This treadmill normally retails for around $2599 to $1999! This is one (if not the best) of the most solid treadmills that Horizon makes for Dicks Sporting Goods. For under $1000 you get the power of a 2.5 Continuous Horsepower Motor that is super quiet and a huge 20 x 60 walking area for those that are longer in stride.

The 3 zone cushioning is what makes this an unbelievable value, because the shock absorption is felt throughout the entire surface of the walking belt. In addition to the walking belt cushion, the side rails also boast a cushion. The 350lb weight limit is well suited for the strong frame and any user within this weight range will feel comfortable performing a light workout, or training for a marathon.

Most heavy duty treadmills with large motors and weight capacities are very large and not super attractive, but the Horizon T1200 offer something that most in its class only dream of …that is a fold up, space saving treadmill that you choose the color to match your décor. The T1200 features black, colbalt, slate and salsa. This is a unique and fun feature that allows those with a true sense of style to be able to express themselves, even in their exercise equipment.

In my humble opinion, I would think that Dick’s would be selling these like hot cakes at the regular price, but due to many folks not having their regular disposable income ( or holding on to it for the time being), I would say that is the reason for the GREAT price on this quality machine. I give this one 4 out of 5 Buddahs!

4 out of 5 golden buddahs.

DRIVE
Drive Motor 2.5 CHP
Speed Range 0 – 12 MPH
Elevation Range 0 – 12% (.5% increments)

FRAME
Running Area 20” x 60”
Belt Thickness 1.6 mm
Cushion System Variable 3 zone

CONSOLE
User Feedback 2 large red LED feedback windows, 1 additional communication window for easy navigation
User Programs 7 (3 open-ended and 4 saved workouts)
Speakers Yes, with IN & OUT jacks, and iPod docking station package (includes dock, headphone jack, track volume, pause buttons and “no slip” pocket)
Fan N/A
Contact (Hand Grip) Yes
Wireless Heart Rate N/A
Chest Strap N/A

WARRANTY
Frame Lifetime
Motor Lifetime
Parts 4 years
Labor 1 year

CAPACITY
User Capacity 350 lbs

FreeMotion Fitness was founded in 1999 based on a simple, yet bold observation: One-dimensional training doesn’t carry over to a three-dimensional world. A place where twisting, turning, and moving in all planes is a daily fact of life.

FreeMotion Fitness™, a subsidiary of ICON Health & Fitness, is dedicated to providing total fitness solutions with competitive financing, quality customer service, comprehensive training and unparalleled products. FreeMotion™, the first and only full circuit of integrated functional strength training equipment. NordicTrack® Commercial Cardio has revolutionized the industry with Workout TV™, the first cable-access TV integrated into the console of the equipment. EPIC Strength™ utilizes ergonomic design and never-before-seen features to improve traditional strength training. FreeMotion Fitness is also the exclusive U.S. distributor of Reebok® Professional Studio Products and Reebok®-Tomahawk® Indoor Cycling Solutions.

FreeMotion Fitness products are currently distributed nationally through the company’s direct sales force and Internationally through a team of distributors. FreeMotion can also be purchased at large cyber retailer like Amazon.com! With some of the prices offered, users can afford commercial grade strength equipment in their own homes, at a fraction of many residential brands!

FreeMotion offers a great power system home gym, the S83! The S83 is an all around workout machine that offers 7 workout stations in 1 machine! This is a light commercial quality machine that measures 73W x75Hx70D. This monster offer 400 lbs of machined weight plates and pivoting pulleys that will allow free range of motion, for a more natural workout.

The 7 stations are as follows:

· The standing squat station isolates the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves for muscle strengthening and body toning.
· The calf-raise station helps you focus on the lower leg muscles.
· The pivoting pulley station lets you perform countless exercises in a number of positions, encouraging you to work all your major muscle groups however it feels right.
· The free-motion press and butterfly station helps you build and tone your upper body.
· The leg developer station offers sit-down exercises for lower body strengthening. In addition, you can remove the seat for stand-up exercises or when using other stations.
· Like the pivoting pulley station, the low-pulley station enables a variety of exercises for building and toning your biceps, deltoids, trapezius, forearms, triceps, rhomboids, and more.
· The curl bar helps strengthen your upper body and focus on your biceps.

Yes, you are reading the correct number! I did not forget a zero, and this is actually a brand you have heard of in the fitness industry. The Schwinn Active 20 Series Recumbent exercise bike is offered at my favorite website, Amazon.com for an amazing $249 and this includes free shipping and no sales tax!!!

The Schwinn active 20 is a super compact bike that offers 11 workout programs and heart rate monitor on the handle grips. The workouts include 1 manual. 6 preset profile programs, 3 heart rate control programs and 1 target heart rate program. The Active 20 also has 8 resistance levels that are computer controlled by the magnetic eddy current brake.

This machine is quiet, like the higher end machines and has a belt drive system, so that your workouts are as smooth as possible. Featuring a LCD display that will read your speed, RPM, time, distance, Watt, calories and pulse, I am not sure how they are able to put this bike on the market for this low, low price! The seat was also was super comfortable, and would accommodate many shapes and sizes due to the adjustability.

While I was very happy working out on this machine, I wanted to make sure that I was not the only one feeling that this was an outstanding deal, so I read some reviews on consumer reports and also on the Amazon website itself, and I was correct in that, this is a well received machine (I was just having too hard of a time believing that this machine could really be this good, at this price)! Amazon reviewers were very pleased with the quality and workout, averaging a 4.5 stars out of 5! They too seemed to be shocked by the unbelievable abilities of this machine, and a few bought additional warranties, thinking this was too good to be true!

The only possible issue some may have with this bike is that the weight limit is only 275 LBS. Most will not take issue, but just in case you are not in that weight range, you may want to keep looking.

All in all, I have always had a hard time reviewing anything in this price range, in any type of fitness equipment, due to the snobbery that many in the fitness industry have against items so readily affordable. Now, this snobbery is well deserved in most cases, but every once in awhile we all come across something that shocks even the most cynical, and this is one of those little gems.

Happy Shopping!!

Specifications:
· Profile: Recumbent
· Number of workout programs: 11
· Workout programs: 1 Manual program, 6 preset profile programs, 3 Heart Rate Control programs and 1 Target Heart Rate program
· Heart rate monitor: Grip
· Resistance levels: 8
· Resistance system: Quiet Magnetic ECB (Eddy current brake) resistance
· Display: LCD
· Display readouts: Speed, RPM, Time, Distance, Watt, Calories, Pulse
· Dimensions: 58.5 x 26 x 36 inches
· Product weight: 58 pounds
· Maximum user weight: 275 pounds
Manufacturer’s WarrantyFrame – 3 years; Parts – 6 months

Ohiyo!

New Best Buy Ellipticals: Just as the Best buy treadmills list, the elliptical list considers affordability. As we all know, there are some folks out there with unlimited budgets, if so, choose the most expensive on the list and you cannot go wrong!

Most Comfortable Elliptical:

Number 5: Lifefitness X7 ($4,299) The Whisper Stride Technology that allows users to adjust your stride for 18 inches to 24 inches. Whisper Stride not only provides comfort, but versatility in addition. The Only reason I ranked this as #5, is due to the high price.

Number 4: Horizon EX-57 ($599) This elliptical is a no brainer! The EX-57 model offers automatic resistance adjustment and magnetic braking for a frictionless, comfortable workout.

Number 3: Smooth CE3.2 (1,499) Smooth has included a heavy-duty flywheel, articulated foot pedals, and a smooth eddy current braking system. What all of this means is that the flywheel will provide a Smooth workout, the braking system does not rely on friction parts to work ( so you will never have wear or tear), and the pedals will move naturally for a more comfortable, natural workout. Click here to see the 2008 Smooth CE3.2 review.

The Most Comfortable Elliptical (tie): Spirit XE200 ($1,499) The XE200 offers oversized foot pedals that has a 2% inward tilt for unsupperpassed comfort. In addition to the pedals, a 30 LB. Flywheel truly makes this a Comfortable Workout. Click here to see the Spirit XE200 review.

The Most Comfortable Elliptical (tie): Sole E35 (1,299) The E35 also features the 2% inward tilt on the pedals. Also included on the E35 is the same heavy duty Fly Wheel and the same Eddy current braking system as Spirit! This Elliptical provides a superior level of comfort for a slow smooth workout or a hardcore marathon workout. Click here to see the Sole E35 review.

Best Programming for Ellipticals

Number 5 (tie): Spirit XE 400 ($1,899) This amazing elliptical has a heart rate control workout with a wireless chest transmitter or handgrip transmitter. This feature is not found on many elliptical under $2000! In addition to the heart rate program, there are 6 factory programs with a ton of different levels and 2 custom programs.

Number 5 (tie): Sole E55 ($1,499) this elliptical allow your body to do all of the thinking! The Heart Rate Autopilot is wonderful for someone trying to get the best heart health workout. In addition to the Autopilot program, the Sole also has 6 factory programs with 20 levels of resistance and 2 custom programs, giving users an unbelievable variety. Click here to see the Sole E55 review.

Number 4: Precor EFX 5.17i ($2,799) this elliptical does not have the great programs that Lifefitness offers, but users get a great variety with the 20 different effort levels. Precor also offers an optional heart rate kit, which allows users to utilize Precors Phenomenal club heart rate system that customizes to each user.

Number 3: Lifefitness X7 (4,299) A ton of programs, but a ton of money! You get club programming from Lifefitness at home with heart control! I would list all the programs, but we would be here all night. Let us just say if you have the $$$ and you like a ton of programs, this is IT!

Number 2: Horizon EX-67 ($799) With a super affordable price and 13 programs featured on a beautiful orange backlit console. The X-67also offers heart rate grip on the handles, which is great for this price range. Also offered is a build your own program.

The Best Programmed Elliptical: Octane Q 47 ($3,999) Normally, I would not have placed this as the BEST due to the affordability factor, but this is a truly amazing machine. This machine is your own personal trainer to use whenever you are available. This is the BEST!

Fits in the Home Best- The Best Looking Ellipticals

Number 5: Precor EFX 5.17i ($2,799) This model has classic looks of the original Precor ellipticals. The quality is unsurpassed, and with the beautiful styling, this is a great elliptical to look at!

Number 4: Sole E25 ($1,099) Sole truly looks like a piece of modern art, and offers a great workout! This elliptical offers a classic black and grey color that is accented with a smoked red console that looks more like a sports car than a piece of fitness equipment. Click here to see the Sole E25 review.

Number 3: Esprit EL-5 ($999) Spirit has made an elliptical that will coordinate with any décor. They have a white color on the support bars that is very visually pleasing and unassuming. Click here to see the Esprit EL-5 review.

Number 2: Horizon EX-77($1,099) The EX-77 is simple yet functional, which many find uber appealing! This is not going to jump out and bite anyone that is in the same room with it, which is pleasing to many.

The Best-Looking Elliptical: The Vision S7200 HRT ($3,799) offers space aged looks and features with a beefy frame design, this could also be considered a work of art. This truly is “Sports Art”.

Best Feel Ellipticals

Number 5: Precor EFX 5.17i ($2,799) Here it is again! Precor’s design cannot be beat! The EFX 5.17i has a fantastic feel, and if you like their club models, you will love this model

Number 4: Octane Q35 ($2,199) This models has the “Q-factor” which means a small distance between foot pedals, which in turn means less stress on the joints. This means a great and comfortable workout. Also included on the Q35 is their body mapping ergonomics and Quadlink drive that makes this feel one of the best of the best.

Number 3: Sole E95 ($1,699) This is a quality and affordable machine wrapped into one! This machine has a club quality feel with an affordable home price. Click here to see the Sole E95 review.

Number 2: Vision X6200 ($1,999) the X6200 has many great comfort features like the variable durometer foot pedals, versatile stride length, and the Quiet Glide belt system with a heavy fly wheel that makes this a dream to use.

The BEST feel on an Elliptical: Smooth Agile DMT ($2,999) Besides the articulated foot pedals that are heavily cushioned and offer shock absorption to your joints, this machine also offers 12 biomechanically correct motions combined with 20
different effort levels that allow users to have complete control over their workout and their bodies.

Best Ellipticals to Avoid Foot Numbness

Number 5: Horizon AT1501 Ascent Trainer ($1,799) This design gives a true climbing motion, which help alleviate some of the numbness issues that many have on ellipticals. This machine is so well designed that Horizon did not even need to pad the pedals. If the pedals had an additional cushion, I probably would have listed this higher on the list.

Number 4: Cybex 600a Arc Trainer ($3,799) Unique! That describes the look and feel of this machine. This is defiantly a conversation piece with a unique look. The arc motion that you get when using this piece is going to help avoid foot numbness, in addition to give users a great workout. This machine would be perfect if the price were not out of so many peoples budget.

Number 3: Octane Q37 ($2,599) The Design and pedal spacing eliminates any problems with foot numbness. Comfort is always a major consideration on all Octane Ellpiticals, and this one is right on target.

Number 2: Spirit XE 500 ($2,099) The XE 500 offers biomechanically correct motion and an adjustable ramp for proper positioning while working out. On top of those incredible features, Spirit also made foot pedals that are angled at 2% toward the middle of the machine for ultimate comfort, and to insure all users maintained proper foot positioning.

The Best Elliptical to Avoid Foot Numbness: Sole E35 ($1,299) Sole has integrated the 2%^ angle toward the middle of their machine in all of their ellipticals, which gives all of their Machines an A+ in avoiding foot numbness, but the E35 has the best combo of function, features, design and value price that we can find anywhere out there. Click here to see the Sole E35 review.

Ohiyo!

This is always a favorite time of year when the best and the brightest try and outdo the competition with either amazing new features or super affordable prices. With the way the economy is shaping up, a major consideration for every item on this list is affordability. That is what I try and accomplish when coming up with these ratings. Because I know that there are those with unlimited means, I have also made that information available.

The Top 5 Quietest Treadmills

Number 5: The Wood way Desmo H ($12,995)…. If you have caught your breathe from that sticker shock, I would rate this as the most quiet, but the affordability issue brings this down to a number 5. I considered not even placing this model on the list due to the price, but this is just the quietest thing out there! If you have the cash, this is an amazing machine, by an amazing Company!

Number 4: Epic View 550 ($998) this is a Sams Club Special that has a great price! This machine is very quiet, and also includes a TV monitor that you can actually listen to (and hear) while working out due to lack of machine noise!

Number 3: Spirit XT 675 ($2399) this is a super quiet machine. This price does tend to scare folks away, but you are getting what you pay for with this thing!

Number 2: Sole F63 ($1,099) This is a quiet machine made by Dyaco (also make Spirit Brand Fitness Equipment). The F63 is a little louder than the Spirit XT, but at half the cost, I would expect a little noise. Click here to see the 2008 Sole F63 review.

The Quietest Treadmill Winner: The BodyCraft TR1180 ($1,999) this treadmill is the very best when it came to noise, or lack of noise! I do not know who they have in their engineering department, but WOW! This treadmill has a low friction design that is muffled by the amazingly soft orthopedic belt. Click here to see the Bodycraft TR1180 review.

Best Cushioned Treadmill

Number 5: Woodway Desmo H ($12,995) Once again, woodway has the best cushion system around. Unfortunately, due to the extreme price, this is out of most peoples Budget.

Number 4: True PS 800 ($3699) True offers a patented cushioning system that is amazing, but the price is still cost prohibitive for most people. The great thing about True treadmills is the fact that the replicate the normal running motion with a cushioned landing and then gradual stiffening when runners push off for their next step. This is a great treadmill, but again, the price makes these 4 out of 5 due to the price.

Number 3: Nordictrack Elite zi ($1,499) this treadmill offers a great design and the adjustable cushioning is amazing, and will take users from a relatively firm feel to a smooth softness on its lowest setting. Adjustable cushioning tends to be on more expensive machines, but Nordictrack was ahead of their time by placing this wonderful feature on a value priced piece of their equipment!

Number 2: Horizon GS1040T ($899) The Horizon GS1040T is half the price of the Nordicktrack Elite zi, but offers a decent cushioning system for this price range. If you can afford to spend a little more, and cushioning is super important to you, go with the Nordicktrack Elite, but if you can not spend that much the GS1040T on its softest setting is a great choice for your Money!

The Best Cushioned Treadmill Winner: Smooth 5.45 ($988) Smooth has started putting their patented Swing Arm Cushioning System on Lower end models, and man does it make a difference. The Swing Arm system was only found on Smooth High end and Commercial treads until recently. The Swing Arm system reacts directly to the weight of the user to provide additional cushioning. In addition to the cushioning provided, the deck has shock absorbers. With this system, users do not experience that bouncy or spring feeling you can get with some cushioning on the market.

Best Looking, Best fit in the Home environment.

Number 5: Lifefitness 5-5 ($4,199) This is a FANTASTIC looking treadmill. If this were priced a little less it would be much higher on our list. The $4,199 price tag puts this beauty at a solid 5!

Number 4: LifeSpan TR2000 ($1,499) This treadmill is quite unique looking. It is on the small side and does not overtake a room like many pieces of exercis
e equipment can do so easily. LifeSpan has a unique motor under design that is sleek with out losing any power. Click here to see the Lifespan TR2000HRC review.

Number 3: Horizon Evolve SG ($599) The reason this one HAD to make the list is for the unbelievable fact that it DISAPPEARS! This treadmill is so slim that it can be place in a closet or under a bed EASILY! This treadmill is not made for heavy runners, but if you are a walker and want an invisible piece of equipment, this is IT!

Number 2: FreeMotion T5.8 ($3,499) Not only is this a piece of fitness equipment, but to some it could be considered art. This single mast, flared piece is stunning yet stark in appearance. This is a great conversation piece, but I am not sold on the long term cushioning system. If this model can maintain its Reflex Deck, this also could be the softest treadmill on the market!

The Best looking Treadmill Winner: SportsArt TR20 ($2,099) This treadmill is a looker! The TR 20 has been redesigned, and man did they ever! This is a moderately priced treadmill that looks like no other. If you like to be cutting edge, the TR20 is your model!

The Strongest Motor Treadmills

Number 5: Pacemaster Bronze ($1,799) Pacemaster did an amazing thing and put the same motor found in many $3K and $4K machines in a $1,799 Model. The Bronze features a big, American made motor for under $2k, what more could you want?

Number 4: Nordicktrack Elite 7500 ($1,999) The Elite 7500 offers a huge 3.5 HP motor for a fairly moderate price. This treadmill, besides having a huge motor, also comes backed by one of the largest well known fitness companies in the industry. For under 2K you can get the Elite with a great entertainment package. This is a quality Treadmill.

Number 3: SpiritXT675 ($2,399) Spirit one upped the Annie when the put a 3.5 HP motor in an already exceptional machine. The Spirit XT675 is a solid machine with quiet performance.

Number 2: Sole S77 ($1,899) The Sole S77 has the identical motor as the Spirit XT675. What makes that so great is the fact that the Sole S77 is $500 less! This motor is strong, and with the high quality design that Dyaco continues to produce this is a super model at a super price! Click here to see the Sole S77 review.

The Strongest Motor Treadmill Winner: Vision T9800HRT ($4,799) I know, I know WOW what a price! But I would be crazy if I did not feature this as the strongest treadmill on the market! The Vision T9800HRT has a 5 HPAC SYSTEM! This thing could push a pack of elephants! Vision has always been an amazing name in fitness, but they have outdone themselves on this model!

The Best Programming for Treadmills

Number 5: Lifefitness Platinum Club 15 inch LCD TV/Movie Touch screen ($7,999) well, at that price you would expect a FABU entertainment package! This is everyone’s dream treadmill, and if you can afford it, I am coming over to use it!

Number 4: Precor 9.35 ($4,699) Precor is using there best programs from their Club models. This really makes this one of the best programmed machines on the market. The only drawback to this specific model is that for about ½ the cost you can get a model with similar programming. Great model, just make sure you need the extra programming for the price.

Number 3: Nordicktrack Elite XT ($1,699) This could arguable is the best in this category, but at almost $1700 this puts it out of many peoples comfort zone. The Elite XT offers everything from a TV to great programs to keep anyone entertained. If you can afford the additional $$, this will be well worth your entertaining dollar.

Number 2: Horizon T93 ($1,299) Horizon has made the T93 perfect for anyone that needs additional motivation while getting a great workout! The T93 has a ton of programming options on an easy to read screen, with an amazing price!

The Best Programmed Treadmill Winner: Nordictrack T9ci ($1,099) Nordictrack has again amazed me! They are offering a quality treadmill, with a touchscreen and a ton of programs for just over 1K! This treadmill has enough programs to keep anyone from getting bored!

An Elliptical with $1000 off!

I was looking at some sales out there to see what kind of of deals someone could get for a light commercial elliptical. I found a Good Deal on a Sole E95!

The Sole E95 generally sells for around $2700 to $2200. Well, Amazon.com has an E95 for an amazing $1699! This also includes free shipping and no sales tax (most states)!

I like the Sole E95, but it is on the higher end of the residential price tag. The 30-pound flywheel has dual action functionality for both the upper and lower body workout. The upper body workout is an unbelievable feature for this price range. With the upper body handles, the E95 also includes 20 resistance levels and 10 programs for a varied workout. The stride length is a generous 20 inches for the comfort of most anyone.

The Sole E95 is my favorite Sole elliptical! The 2009 E95 is even better than the 2008, and the newer model is cheaper than the 2008! The 2009 E95 has one of the best drive systems I have seen on a Sole Elliptical and has a huge weight capacity of 400 Lbs! This is one I machine would expect to see in the high tech, state of the art gym on “The Biggest Loser”!

The E95 has many extras that make the price tag a little more palatable like the 38mm steel frame and both the super accurate pulse grips, and the HR telemetry monitor. The console has red and green LED display with track display, HR Graph, and cooling fan. There are also the standards in this price range that include a water bottle holder, audio system.

The warranty is also a huge selling point for anyone interested in a long-term investment like the E95! Sole offers a Lifetime warranty on the frame and brakes, 5 years on parts and electronics, and 2 years on labor by a certified Sole Technician.

This is defiantly one to consider, and if you order by noon on 12/18, you can receive your machine before Christmas! Happy deal finding!

A Good Elliptical at a Great price!

I was trying to find an elliptical that would be good for a friend. She is interested in a machine that is good for your joints and allows for a good cardio workout! Oh yeah, and not to mention, she wants a frame that would be comfortable for a short person, will not wobble if your over 200 pounds, fold up, and a price tag under $1000! Wellllll, I normally would say get a gym membership, because good elliptical are hard to find under $1000!!

I really like these people so; I did my due diligence and started on Treadmilldoctor.com. They are always a good starting point when you are looking for up to date reviews, and also well organized by price point!

I started looking at Smooth because I really like the Smooth Agile! The only problem with the Agile is that is runs about $3500! Now, every once in awhile someone will sell reconditioned units on EBay or run really great sales directly. Well, no such luck! I went to Amazon.com and a Smooth elliptical came up under $1000. I saw a Smooth CE 2.0 and it really has everything we are looking for!

Price, check!
Stride, Check!
Delivery included, Check!
Large weight capacity, Check!

The CE 2.0 really is made for those that are one the shorter side (under 6 foot), and weigh no more than 275 lbs (even with a limit 300 lbs)!

The reason I mention the weight limit is that I have experienced people complain about stability while working out on the Smooth CE 2.0. I always recommend the CE 3.2 or 7.4 for heavier, taller people.

The Smooth CE 2.0 offers 3 pedal options and changeable handlebars so anyone can easily change in between users for a customized fit. This elliptical has a 22 lb flywheel! This feature is what makes this elliptical feel like you are on a much more expensive, heavy weight piece of equipment. The fly wheel makes your workout smooooth! This is a very important piece to look at when you are looking at elliptical.

The CE 2.0 also offers a standard training computer that will measure time, speed, distance, calories, pulse and RPM’s. This machine is a super space saver with a 45”L x 20” W.

Smooth Ellipticals do tend to knock after a while of use on a regular basis. All ellipticals will have some “noise Issues” due to all of the pivot points (usually about 8 pivots, 4 on each side, on a common treadmill). Smooth will experience this noise thing, but all will on some level.

All in all, this is a pretty good deal at $999, no shipping charges and no tax in most states!

Amazon.com offers the best space saving treadmill around!

While shopping on Amazon.com for treadmills and elliptical, I came across the new Horizon Evolve! This treadmill is a fantastic piece of equipment for apartment dwellers or those that do not have the space (or want) for a full size treadmill.

I am not telling anyone to buy this machine if you want to do any more strenuous exercise than “Mall Walk”, but if you are interested in a good slim line, walking treadmill, this is defiantly your machine!

Horizon has created a treadmill that is 10 inches high when folded up on the ground and can easily fit under a bed or vertically against a wall! But wait that’s not all! Haha! Horizon has also included a 1.5 Contious Horsepower drive motor that allows users to speed from 1 to 6 MPH.

Now, just because you have a mini machine does not mean that your walking area is miniature. It boasts a decent 17 x 45 walking area. This walking area is smaller than normal, but again this treadmill is really only for walking! The Evolve also offers a weight loss program and manual program. Another really great feature on this treadmill is the audio speakers with input from any of your audio devices and a thumb pulse heart rate monitor for a more accurate workout.

Amazon.com is offering this treadmill at $599 with free shipping and no sales tax in most states! Another fantastic feature of this treadmill is no setup! You pull it out of the box and Voila, you are ready to go!

Again, this is not a Treadmill for runners!! But walkers will be in Heaven with this machine when the weather is crummy, or wanting the convenience of working out whenever you choose. The Horizon Evolve comes with a 10 year frame warranty, 5 year on electrical & parts and a 1 year on labor.