Features that count
Last reviewed: October 2009
Display
Look for a clear display with easy-to-use controls. A good one will show some combination of your heart rate, calories burned,
speed, and resistance levels, and details such as time and distance.
Programming
Look for machines with programs that allow you to adjust routines based on your fitness level and have workouts that consider
your age, weight, and gender.
Heart-rate monitor
Those with a chest strap are best because they don't constrain your movement. Contact monitors measure your heart rate only
when you're touching them, which can be inconvenient. Stand-alone heart-rate monitors are available for about $28 to $100.
(See
heart-rate monitor Ratings, available to subscribers.)
Resistance
Look for a machine that is easy to adjust and has a variety of workout levels. Most elliptical exercisers have electronic
resistance control. Some machines have mechanical controls that tend to be cumbersome and work poorly.
Extra features
Decide which extra features are important to you. We're finding more ellipticals with innovative design features, such as
adjustable inclines. But many panelists found drawbacks in the lack of simple niceties on other machines, such as a book rest
or a place for a water bottle.
