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Horizon Elliptical Trainers - A Better Choice?

If you want good-quality elliptical trainer, does it necessarily follow that you have to pay more? Sadly, yes. The more expensive models of Horizon ellipticals do speak of durability, serviceability, stylish look and good performance. On the other hand, if your budget is tight and you want an elliptical training machine, just the same, the less expensive ellipticals would do just fine-but make sure you don't buy the el cheap-o and end up spending more just to get the endurance and performance you want out of it. Take the time to read the reviews about these products, and compare the features.

Horizon offer two different product lines that are very similar in design, construction and features: The Horizon series, available at Sears, Dicks Sporting Goods, Galyons and numerous online fitness equipment retailers. All models have a 16-inch stride, 30-inch pedal arm length and a 15-pound flywheel; and the Elite series - Only available through select specialty stores. The Horizon E54HR model is, so far, the best buy among its models in the market today. In features, it is largely comparable only to its brother Horizon E53HR, except the E54HR has 10 preset programs against the E53HR's six.

These models of the Horizon elliptical have the best stride, and this you can see with its oversized foot pedals that also pivots and moves with the smoothness that you would really appreciate. The pedals stand parallel to the ground, and this assures you that there will be no jerky bobbing motion in your up-and-down stride as you use it. The flywheel of the Horizon elliptical is in the front, and the different motions it offers would take some people a little more time to get used to.

Added welcome features are a set of speakers with volume control for your CD/Walkman that you can use as you exercise full-blast, if you like, without bothering anyone in the house, a built-in fan to keep you cool while you try to achieve your target heart rate, and the blue back-lit display that makes reading of those monitors easy day or night.

The E54HR model boasts also of having zero service history in three years. Its heart rate control program that you can custom-fit to your heart condition as you monitor the calories you burn as you exercise.

For a low- to mid-range priced elliptical trainer, the Horizon ellipticals give you a comfortable ride; but, as in most low-priced equipment, you have to try and get the extended warranty if you can-for that added convenience when the wear-and-tear of some of its components seep in. For the Horizon series, the company gives life warranty on parts and labor for its frame; for the Elite series, it gives TWO years warranty on parts and 1 year on labor for its frame and brake.

The elliptical trainer is a very wise acquisition; but you have to be a wise buyer and look out for pitfalls. With Horizon ellipticals, you are more-or-less assured of buying a good quality product.