From ellipticals to treadmills to cross trainers, ProForm has plenty of affordable machines to choose from. Invented in the nineties by Precor, ellipticals are one of the most popular cardio workout machines.
Elliptical trainers are designed to work your entire body in a safe and low impact way, with plenty of extra features to keep you on track. But are they worth it?
Proform Ellipticals Compared
Image | Model | Weight Capacity | Workout Programs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro PFEL05815 | 350 Lbs. | 16 | ||
ProForm 150i | 250 Lbs. | 12 | ||
ProForm Pro 9.9 | 350 Lbs. | 32 | ||
ProForm 520 E | 300 Lbs. | 18 | ||
ProForm Hybrid Trainer | 350 Lbs. | N/A | ||
ProForm Cardio HIIT PFEL09915 | 350 Lbs. | 32 | ||
ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE | 275 Lbs. | 18 |
Features of ProForm Elliptical Machines
Extensive & Diverse Workout Menu
Equipped with a selection of preset workout programs, ProForm elliptical users can choose the perfect program and intensity for them. These programs can be used regardless of whether the iFit Coach has been added or not.
Integrated Touch Screen
Whether you would like to squeeze in a workout while watching Netflix or go all out with an iFit training session, the integrated HD color touch screen on specific models has a web browser to keep you on track.
iFit Coach
Available as an added subscription, iFit Coach is personal training support and an interactive workout system. Filled with trainer created workouts, tracking systems, and sharing abilities, subscribers have a world of motivational tools at their disposal.
Customizable Performance Features
No matter your physical prowess, ProForm ellipticals can be tailored to your preferences. With adjustable inclines, resistance levels, stride lengths, and even foot pedals, it is possible to refine the machine to suit your needs.
Moving Handlebars
Designed to support full-body training, the cushioned moving handlebars help provide a comfortable but challenging upper body workout. ProForm elliptical handlebars often come in sets of two and may have control buttons on them for added convenience.
Steel Frames
Ellipticals need a sturdy quality frame to hold everything together. ProForm ellipticals have strong steel frames to support both you and the machine’s mechanisms no matter how hard you workout.
Lifetime & Competitive Warranties
Many affordable ellipticals by other brands come with low or subpar warranties. ProForm frames come with limited lifetime warranties and competitive labor, parts, and electrical ones to give you peace of mind.
Android Browser Equipped
Are you more of an Android person? ProForm ellipticals have Android browsers to keep you connected before, during, and after your workout. This means that you can check your socials or catch up on your favorite shows even during your workout.
7 Best ProForm Ellipticals Reviewed
1. ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro PFEL05815
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 60.5 x 24.5 x 70.5 inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 17 inches |
No. of Resistance Levels | 20 |
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | 16 |
Warranty | Frame = Lifetime Limited, Parts = 1 year |
Best for older adults, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro post elliptical is both a recumbent bike and an elliptical in one package. Transitioning from a warm up cycling session to an elliptical workout is a breeze and makes for a varied workout routine. The build and movement quality are excellent for the price, and there are plenty of extra features to shake up your routine.
This ProForm elliptical bike is iFit compatible, has 16 different workout programs, and everything you need is provided. To avoid iFit, simply hold the button for 20-30 seconds to start your machine. Because it is a hybrid, assembly is more complex and may take longer than your standard elliptical.
There is no heart monitor, and there is no biometric input system, making the calories burned more of a guideline than hard fact. The large weight capacity and extended warranty make the hybrid a good option for your home gym.
Pros
Cons
2. ProForm 150i
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 66.75 x 22.5 x 63 Inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 17 inches |
No. of Resistance Levels | 12 |
Weight Capacity | 250 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | 12 |
Warranty | Frame = 5 years, Labor and Parts = 90 days |
The best budget option, the ProForm 150i elliptical has many excellent features to keep your mind and body engaged during your workout. As well as 12 pre-programmed options, there is also a manual option for those who know what they want and 12 resistance levels to keep you challenged. The LED screen system shows and tracks watts, time, and the oversized pedals and cushioned grips to keep you supported.
While this elliptical does run on batteries, there is an AC option if you would prefer. Transport wheels help when cleaning and transporting the 150i, and there is an inbuilt heart rate monitor, water bottle holder, and speakers. While iFit is enabled, it is possible to bypass the subscription by holding the buttons down from 20-30 seconds.
The warranty and stride length are on the shorter side compared to other ProForm ellipticals. Overall, this is a good home gym investment.
Pros
Cons
3. ProForm Pro 9.9
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 79.75 x 25.75 x 66.25 Inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 20 inches |
No. of Resistance Levels | 24 |
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | 32 |
Warranty | Frame = Lifetime Limited, Parts = 3 years, Labor = 1 year |
The best stride length on this list, the ProForm Pro 9.9 elliptical is perfect for beginners and pros alike. The substantial weight capacity and stride length are suitable for many body types, and the power incline and resistance provide added challenge to the 32 workout programs.
The cushioned handles have button controls for added convenience, and the power incline is ideal for those looking for a hiking feel in their next workout. An extended warranty has you covered should anything wear down or get damaged, and the iPod jack and speakers are ready to blast your workout playlist.
At 28 pounds, the large flywheel provides smooth and powerful movement, and a wireless chest strap monitors your heart rate. That being said, the resistance is abnormally high even on the lowest levels, making this a better choice for experienced fitness fans. Both the speakers and the fan could be better, and there is no inbuilt tablet holder.
Pros
Cons
4. ProForm 520 E
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 67 x 31 x 18 inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 19 inches |
No. of Resistance Levels | 18 |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | 18 |
Warranty | Frame = Lifetime Limited, Parts and Labor = 1 year |
The best value elliptical on our list, the ProForm elliptical 520e is a good beginner elliptical for those looking to test the waters. The considerable stride length, warranty, and decent weight capacity make it suitable for a range of people, and there are 18 programs to keep you occupied and challenged.
The stride length and pedals are adjustable to suit your preferences, and the wide incline range really turns up the heat. There are two sets of handles to allow for full or lower body training, and there are even builtin cup and tablet holders.
While this model is iFit compatible, it is possible to bypass this system by holding the buttons down for 20-30 seconds. The assembly proved a little longer for some, and parts have arrived broken or missing in the past. It is worth noting that the striding movement is oval, not circular like most ellipticals.
Pros
Cons
5. ProForm Hybrid Trainer
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 46.5 x 25.75 x 18 inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 15 inches |
No. of Resistance Levels | 16 |
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | N/A |
Warranty | Frame = 5 years, Parts and Labor = 90 days |
The best hybrid elliptical on our list, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer and Recumbent Bike is excellent for those looking to make the most of their limited floor space. A two in one model, this elliptical has a large weight capacity and has plenty of resistance levels to kick your workout up a notch.
Thanks to the flywheel and silent magnetic resistance, each stride is smooth and quiet enough not to disturb others. The LED screen is large and comfortable to read while the cushioned grips and oversized pedals have you covered throughout your routine.
The adjustable seat and integrated speakers, tablet holder, and cup holders are convenient features for any fitness fan. Unfortunately, the stride is on the short side, and this elliptical only uses D batteries instead of an AC. The assembly is a little more complex than standard ellipticals, and iFit is harder to get around; holding the buttons for half a minute should bypass that system.
Pros
Cons
6. ProForm Cardio HIIT PFEL09915
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 34 x 18 x 50 inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 10 inches vertical, 15 inches horizontal |
No. of Resistance Levels | 24 |
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | 32 |
Warranty | Frame = Lifetime Limited, Parts = 3 years, Labor = 1 year |
The best commercial elliptical on our list, the ProForm Cardio HIIT elliptical is perfect for pros and beginners of any body type. Similar to a stepper, this unconventional elliptical is more compact than most, meaning more floor space for you. With a large weight capacity and a long term warranty, this machine is capable of supporting anyone's fitness journey.
The 30 pounds flywheel guarantees a smooth and quiet stride and comes with a built-in tablet holder, fan, transport wheels, speakers, and LED screen. The heart rate monitor and chest strap keep you on track while the two handles and oversized pedals allow for lower and whole-body training in vertical and horizontal elliptical styles.
Some shorter customers had a little trouble getting on and off the machine while others reported parts arriving missing or damaged. While it is hard to avoid iFit for those who would not like the subscription, try holding the buttons down for 20-30 seconds to bypass this system.
Pros
Cons
7. ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE
Product Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 65 x 32 x 80 inches |
Elliptical Stride Length | 18 inches |
No. of Resistance Levels | N/A |
Weight Capacity | 275 lbs. |
No. Of Workout Programs | 18 |
Warranty | Frame = Lifetime Limited, Parts and Labor = 1 year |
Best for home use, the ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE elliptical has many features to help you stay fit. The soft grips and cushioned oversized pedals are comfortable, and there are plenty of workout programs to keep you interested. The warranty is long and so is the stride length, making it suitable for people of different heights.
Assembly is easy, and the sleek design allows the elliptical to fold for a simple storage solution. The LED display is easy to read, and there is a tablet holder, water bottle holder, and speakers built into the solid steel frame. This ProForm Smart Strider elliptical has transportation wheels and is iFit compatible; all of these features are available for a reasonable price.
Some customers have noted that squeaking noises may occur and that this model does not store your workout information or history or support Bluetooth unless you purchase an iFit subscription.
Pros
Cons
About the ProForm Brand
Started in the 1980s, ProForm is owned by Utah ICON Health and Fitness. This company also owns other well-known fitness machine brands such as NordicTrack.
All parts and machines are made in Utah, with ellipticals being added to the pipeline in the late nineties. ProForm ellipticals are popular due to their lower-priced quality builds and convenient features.
Comparison with Other Elliptical Brands
While there are plenty of fitness machine brands, we have selected a few of ProForm’s competitors for comparison. NordicTrack shares the same owner as ProForm, but NordicTrack ellipticals are typically more expensive and have both more features and a larger stride.
Sole ellipticals have inward sloping pedals but are more basic and harder to purchase. ProForm ellipticals are cheaper than Horizon models and have better warranties and guarantees. Unlike ProForm ellipticals, there are no financing options for Horizon customers.
Overall, ProForm can keep up with its competition through its pricing and extra elliptical features that make exercise convenient and straightforward.
How ProForm Ellipticals Workout Your Body
When on a ProForm elliptical machine, the user pushes on one handle while stepping forward with their opposite foot and repeating this motion on each side. While using an elliptical, a variety of muscle groups such as the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, biceps, and triceps are activated.
It is even possible to switch direction to isolate different muscles for an improved workout routine. As well as a whole-body workout, ellipticals also boost stamina and cardio ability, burn extra calories, improve balance, and put less pressure on your joints.
How to Setup & Use ProForm Elliptical Trainer
As always, we recommend consulting a doctor for advice before purchasing a new piece of equipment. It is possible in some instances to ask the delivery person to carry the heavy package to the room you will use it in for an easier setup.
If you do not opt for this service, make sure that there is someone else with you to help carry the heavy box to its destination. Make sure that you have all of the space, tools, and pieces you need before beginning construction or deconstruction and follow the manual carefully.
If you get stuck, look online for helpful tutorial videos. Lubricate and inspect the elliptical carefully before use and stretch carefully before and after working out.
Cleaning, Maintenance & Problem Fixing
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your elliptical will extend its lifespan and keep it in top condition. ProForm suggests that you do the following:
If you need help, contact ProForm’s customer service team at 1-888-533-1333, on their website, or email them at service@iconfitness.com. There are plenty of instructions online for lubricating elliptical machines and troubleshooting various issues.
People also Ask (FAQS)
Hybrid vs. regular style ellipticals. What is the difference?
A hybrid elliptical has two machines in one, such as a recumbent bike and an elliptical. Regular ellipticals are just ellipticals.
Is it safe for pregnant women, the elderly, or anyone with health issues, etc.?
Everybody is different, so we recommend consulting your doctor before use. However, ellipticals can provide gentle and low impact workouts, making them a good option for pregnant women, elderly people, and those with health issues.
What is a good workout routine for using a home elliptical?
For beginners, we recommend using an elliptical three times a week for ten minutes, gradually increasing time, resistance, and speed as you improve. There are plenty of workout videos online to follow if you need inspiration.
How do I measure and determine my stride length?
Mark a starting point and walk ten natural steps. Mark the tip of your front foot and measure the distance. Divide that distance by ten, and you will have your stride length.
Are expensive ellipticals worth investing in?
Any elliptical that best suits your needs is worth investing in. However, it is worth thinking about what you want and setting a personal budget. See if your desired model is on sale or cheaper elsewhere. Cheaper models can be useful, but you often get what you pay for.
Can I buy these online even though they are large in size?
Yes, they can be bought online from the brand's website or on sites like Amazon and delivered directly to your door.
Conclusion
One of the biggest brands on the market, it is easy to see why people flock to ProForm’s fitness machines. While all of the above models are good options, we would recommend the ProForm Pro 9.9 for its long stride length, a wide range of preset workout programs, and overall quality.