There are an increasing number of elliptical machines that are able to give you the type of performance that you would expect from the most expensive trainers, but for a fraction of the cost. The Proform Endurance 520 E is one of these machines. It is classed in the mid-price range of ellipticals, but it is a solid machine that has many of the features that you will normally only find on higher priced models, like its ability to incline and its numerous workout apps.

I see the this elliptical trainer as being good value for the money. Like most people, I am looking at price and performance as two very important factors when buying an exercise machine; I think the 520 E has successfully managed to create a high-performing machine at a relatively affordable price. Let’s look at what else this machine has to offer.

So Many Workout Apps

Would you like to be able to mix up the structure of your elliptical workouts? The Proform Endurance 520 E has 18 preset workouts that you can use to add variety to your workout routine and accomplish your workout goals faster. They will also help you to stay engaged and motivated while you work out. Exercising on an elliptical trainer and doing the same routine day after day can quickly become boring, so anything that can break up the monotony and make things more interesting will get a thumbs up from me. All the workout apps have also been approved by a certified personal trainer so you can be sure they will help you to get the most out of your workout sessions.

For those who like to keep abreast of their pulse rate during workout sessions, the 520 E has a built-in CardioGrip heart rate monitor. The sensors for the monitor are located the the handlebars so all you have to do is grab a hold of them for a few seconds and then you will be able to read your heart rate statistics on the monitor. This feature is useful, especially if you do not want to overwork yourself in your workout sessions.

If you are a fan of iFit, you will be happy to know that the Proform Endurance 520 E is iFIT compatible. Yes, you would have to purchase an iFit wireless module separately to take advantage of its added functionality, but if you buy the iFit module at the same time as the Proform Endurance 520 E you will get one year of iFit subscription for free. With iFit you will be able to track your progress online, create customized workouts, and use Google Maps to simulate running outdoors.

All of 18 Levels of Resistance

Talk about variety and keeping things interesting – there are all of 18 levels of resistance on this elliptical trainer. So if you somehow managed to get through all the 18 workout apps, there are still these 18 resistance levels to help keep things challenging for you. As you work out you should get stronger and gradually increase your endurance; incrementally increasing the resistance on your sessions is a great way to do this. You will also be able to tone your muscles and burn more calories as you use more resistance.

The 520 E uses Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) technology and the buttons that you will use to adjust the resistance levels are conveniently located on the machine’s console. This means that you will not have to stop working out to change the level of resistance as you can do it mid-workout with just a few button presses. The resistance technology that is used also helps it to run very smoothly and quietly, so it should be perfect for people who like to watch TV or programs on their tablet while working out. There is a tablet holder and built-in speakers so that you can watch, listen, and distract yourself with entertainment as you exercise.

Stride and Incline Options

The stride length on this elliptical trainer is 20-inches, and that is more than enough to comfortably accommodate short and tall persons alike. The average elliptical tends to have a stride length of about 16-18 inches, but taller persons will find this less than ideal when they are working out. A 20-inch stride length improves your workout experience, making it smoother and giving you a more natural stride.

There is also a 20-degree incline on the Proform Endurance 520 E. I love it when an elliptical has the ability to incline as you get to target different sets of muscles for a more complete full-body workout. This trainer has 5 set incline positions and each lets you target a different group of muscles.

Incline Issues

One thing that could have been better with this machine is how the incline is adjusted. You have to stop working out and manually adjust the incline if you want to change the angle. This might be considered a minor inconvenience but some people will find it frustrating. I for one don’t like the idea of interrupting my workouts for any reason, let alone to adjust the incline, which can be done by pressing a button on some other elliptical machines. All things considered, it is still good that there is actually an incline feature here, as there are some ellipticals that will cost more and not have this feature at all.

Verdict

You should have a hard time getting bored with this elliptical as it has so many features to keep you active and engaged. Between the 18 levels of resistance, the 18 workout apps, and its iFit compatibility, you should have no issues finding a workout that is challenging and interesting. You can have the best elliptical trainer in the world, but if you are not motivated to use it you will not be able to achieve your fitness goals. I think the Proform Endurance 520 E’s main strength lies in the wide variety of workout options that it gives its users. If you want an elliptical that will keep you motivated and challenged, this one can do all that and then some.

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