Rating:

It doesn’t say so on Amazon, but the instructions that come with the Stamina 55-1610 InMotion E1000 Elliptical Trainer say that the maximum user weight is 250 pounds. I have to admit I’m very close to that, and it supports me just fine, without falling over, rocking excessively, or making loud noises. As for the stride length, I won’t kid you, it’s VERY short. Anyone taller than 5’3″ is going to feel like they are barely lifting their feet. I’m 5’0″, and I still found the stride length a bit short initially, but I got used to it after only a few minutes. And don’t worry, the short stride length does NOT prevent you from getting a good workout. You really feel it in your thighs. And while you can’t change the stride length, you can adjust the tension, go forwards or backwards, and of course, you control your own speed.

Other reviewers have mentioned that the stride is a bit choppy or jerky, and they’re right; but again, this is something you get better at with practice. I found it really helped me to stride smoothly if I had my weight forward over my toes. I was scared to lean too much at first, but the machine did not tip forwards as I feared – it stayed solidly on the floor.

It only took me about 5 minutes to put the elliptical together – and all by myself, too (the instructions say 2 people should do the assembly together, but I didn’t need any help). It’s also light enough to carry from one room to another if you need/want to.

My last concern was about noise, since I’m in an apartment with flimsy walls and floors. The machine does make a sort of whooshing noise as the pedals turn, but it is not too loud – I’m sure it won’t bother my neighbors, and if I wear headphones I can’t hear it myself either.

I highly recommend this elliptical trainer to anyone looking for a cheap and easy home workout. People who are short like me (say 5’3″ or under) will find it especially suitable!

Rating:

Very easy to assemble and does a good job for a low price. Some people may have a bit of trouble keeping their balance, but I had no difficulty after a few spins on this — I think trying to maintain balance only enhances the effects of the workout. Small computer does a decent job.

Biggest cons would have to be that 1) the range of motion is definitely smaller than on a “real” elliptical and 2) the resistance setting isn’t all that great.

All in all, if you have a small place and don’t want to pay $40+/mo for a gym membership, this is a great alternative to running up and down stairs.

Rating:

The counter is placed out of the way, between your ankles, so you don’t have to stare at it while exercising (unless you exercise while staring at your ankles) which to me is a plus. Also, the counter only accounts for the actual time you spend exercising, so if you go get a drink of water and return, it self-pauses, which is cool.

The machine does occasionally rock slightly from side-to-side during use which I’d imagine could cause injury. Also, the machine doesn’t glide easily during strides as it does on a regular elliptical; it occasionally jolts. This can be jarring, especially if you’re not used to the unusually short strides on this machine. I recommend using this while you have something to stabilize yourself if this happens (I use it in a doorway)

Not the best machine out there, but it’s certainly affordable and easy to use, a great purchase for a small space or for someone who wants to be able to stow away exercise equipment easily.