Ironman produces a range of elliptical trainers from economy to midpriced, starting around $599 and up.
Although Ironman ellipticals are not as well known as some other brands, they have recently come out with several new models that may be worth considering.
The Ironman Achiever elliptical for example, offers a long 21" stride, a more compact layout and center drive technology (where there are 2 smaller flywheels on either side of you instead of one large flywheel out in front).
Is an Ironman elliptical trainer right for you? Here's a general review to help you decide:
Strengths:
1) Center Drive Technology - This is feature found only on some newer Ironman models like the Ironman Achiever and the CDT Elliptical.
Instead of a large flywheel out in front or behind you, there are 2 smaller flywheels on either side of you. According to Ironman, this helps to ensure proper workout posture. It also gives you a smaller footprint if you are short on space.
This 2 side flywheel design is also found on several other brands like Nordic Track and Proform
2) Longer Stride Lengths - While older economy Ironman models had really short stride lengths (14 - 16 inches), the newer higher end models have actually come out with 21" stride lengths.
A longer stride length more accurately mimics your body's natural motion and can give you a more efficient workout. While 21" may be a bit too long for shorter users (under 5'4"), most users love the feel of a longer stride.
3) Great Reviews - Iron man ellipticals rate fairly well with experts and users. A leading consumer ratings organizaion gave the Ironman 320e a 'Budget Buy' rating.
Also, users have rated these ellipticals quite well, with many of the models averaging about from 4 out of 5 stars - mainly on the new models. Buyers liked the smoothness of the ellipticals as well as the center drive construction, which is more compact.
Weaknesses:
The older economy Ironman units do tend to have shorter stride lengths and very short warranties. There are other economy brands that offer you more for your money.
Also, while the newer models show promise, they don't have a lot of history behind them. So it's hard to say how well they'll last over the long run.
Summary:
The new Ironman models are impressive - giving you smaller footprints, long 21" strides and the center drive technology. While they don't have as many bells and whistles as some other brands, the longer stride and design make them a popular choice with buyers.
I wouldn't necessarily recommend the older, economy models with the smaller elliptical strides. You won't get the best workout and you probably won't feel comfortable on these units.
However the higher end models (especially the Achiever & CDT models) offer better construction and show a lot more promise overall.
Regardless of which elliptical you choose to buy, make sure you know what to look for when buying an elliptical. Consider the needs of everyone who will be using it, their height and weight, as well as the space you have in your fitness area.
Reebok CrossTrainers can be found in many discount department store fitness areas as well as online. They are actually produced by Icon Health and Fitness, one of the largest exercise equipment manufacturers in the world (They also own brands like Proform, Healthrider, Weslo and Image.)
Reebok crosstrainers used to be more popular with buyers. However, over the past few years they have been eclipsed by better built trainers with more sophisticated features.
Strengths:
Affordable - The older Reebok units used to sell for $699 and under, which made them affordable for the home gym on a budget. However it's getting harder to find these older models and the new Reebok units tend to be higher priced at around $999+.
iFit compatibility - iFIT.com technology can be found on many of the older models. It controls the resistance of your elliptical so you don't have to worry about a thing. Interactive workouts can be sent right to your machine from iFIT.com or try an iFIT CD and Scenic Video workouts. The new models also come with several built-in workout programs, which can again, challenge you and stave off workout boredom.
Upper body workout arms - Most Reebok ellipticals come with moveable upper body arm bars. These allow you to get a total body workout and burn more calories in a shorter amount of time.
20" Stride - While most older Reebok units have a smaller 14-16" stride, the new Reebok crosstrainers are starting to improve and some machines do offer the 20" stride. A longer stride gives your legs a more full range of motion which results in a better workout and more calories burned. For most people over 5'6", a longer stride also feels a lot more comfortable.
CoolAire workout fans built into the Console - These are little things but they do make your workout more comfortable and enjoyable.
Weaknesses:
The older Reebok ellipticals are economy grade machines. They probably won't hold up too well over the long run - a fact seen in generally short warranties.
And while the new Reebok crosstrainers are an improvement, they are also more expensive $999-$1599. This puts them in an entirely different category and they are competing with other elliptical brands that generally offer higher grade machines and give you more for your money.
Also, user reviews of these ellipticals in the past have not been positive, with users complaining mostly about the resistance levels on their elliptical trainers getting stuck.
Conclusion:
Reebok ellipticals are a mixed bag. On the one hand, they are affordable and the new models are starting to improve with longer stride lengths, more advanced consoles, heart rate monitors and built in workout programs. Also, it's nice to know the Reebok name will definitely be around in the years to come, should your elliptical need servicing.
On the other hand, while Reebok crosstrainers have fared well with some experts, buyers aren't positive about them so far. Plus most Reebok machines offer very short warranties - which tells you something about the quality of construction. And while the new models are an improvement, there are many similarly priced ellipticals that give you more for your money.
If you choose to buy a Reebok elliptical, I would recommend you try it out at the store first to make sure the feel and stride length is right for you. Also, try to get an extended warranty, just to give you that extra peace of mind.
Both Vienna Miller & Kathryn O'neill are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Vienna Miller has sinced written about articles on various topics from Lose Weight, Credit Loans and Hair Transplant. Vienna Miller writes for , a consumer oriented website focusing on the home elliptical market. For the more information on where to. Vienna Miller's top article generates over 3600 views. to your Favourites.
Kathryn O'neill has sinced written about articles on various topics from . Kathryn O'Neill writes for , offering the latest elliptical brand & product reviews. For the latest Elliptical Best Buys see. Kathryn O'neill's top article . to your Favourites.