Proform 10.0 ZE Elliptical Trainer

One thing stands out about the Proform 10.0 ZE elliptical – the price. This is a very low cost elliptical. Even so, it does include many of the things you would expect to find in higher end machines. It has an adjustable stride, 12 resistance levels and a heart rate monitor built in to the handlebars – all features you would expect to find in a more expensive machine.

Other benefits of the Proform 10.0 ZE include its space saver design. When not in use the base and pedals fold up saving 3 feet of floor space. There is an iPod or MP3 compatible port on the console shelf to make it easy to play whatever music motivates you and there is a CoolAire fan built in to the frame to keep you from overheating no matter how hot you get.

The blue tinted console allows you to track speed, distance, calories burned and pulse and there are 8 preset workout programs and 12 resistance levels to work through which should provide enough variety to stave off boredom. For those looking for more, the Proform 10.0 ZE is compatible with iFit Workout Card technology. Cards are available for purchase separately and each offers a range of routines designed by certified personal trainers that will greatly extend the number of programs available.

Buy it Now at Workoutwarehouse.com

The adjustable stride has two benefits. The first is that by selecting a stride length, either 13”, 15” or 18 “ the user can isolate and focus on different muscle groups. The second is that individual users can adjust the stride length to suit themselves making this a family friendly machine.

As more is understood about the repetitive impact injuries common to both runners and treadmill users, like tendonitis and plantar fasciitis, the benefits of elliptical training become ever more obvious. The glide motion of an elliptical puts no stress on foot, ankle, knee or hip and is unlikely to result in sprains, strains or shin splints.

As before any form of exercise, a warm up to stretch muscles and increase flexibility is always advisable but in general ellipticals are safe to use for even those who have suffered sports related injuries. Advice should always be sought from one’s own doctor before embarking upon any new form of exercise.

For the price, the Proform 10.0 ZE is a good little machine. It is ideal for a first time buyer and will provide a reasonable workout to most users. Those who are looking for a machine that will offer an increasing intensity of exercise over a long time should probably look at the LifeCORE 985 VG or the Yowza Sanibel.

Another consideration is the company itself. All fitness equipment brands offer a lifetime warranty on the machine frame, Proform offers one year coverage on parts and labor. Both LifeCORE and Yowza Fitness offer a five year warranty on parts and labor on the machines mentioned.