I have used a recumbent bike in the past and I know that they are good for cardio and lower body workouts. They are especially good for you if you have back issues, because they have added support for your back. Recumbent bikes allow for better spinal posture when you are working out because you are basically sitting on a chair, unlike upright exercise bikes that do not have a back and cause you to hunch forward, often creating fatigue and muscle soreness.

Ellipticals, on the other hand, will generally work both your upper and lower body and are good for toning these areas as well as for cardiovascular workouts. They are easy on the joints and therefore suitable for people who have joint injuries. A wider variety of people will be able to use ellipticals as they are not limited to being used only by persons in optimal physical condition. So when I came across the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer, which offers the benefits of both an elliptical trainer and a recumbent bike, I jumped at the chance to review it. Here is what I found out.

Two Functions In One Machine

The ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer combines an elliptical machine with a recumbent bike – I just love a good deal and nothing says savings like getting two for the price of one. You can adjust the pedals according to whether you are using this trainer as an elliptical or as a bike, and you make the full transition between both functions in three simple steps. If you have been trying to decide about getting one or the other of these machines, the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer could very well be the answer to your problems, as it gives you the best of both worlds in one relatively compact machine. It would also be perfect for people who enjoy using both machines but who do not necessarily have the space for both. Whatever the reason you are considering this hybrid trainer, it’s sure to offer you a variety of exercise options that can make your workout sessions more interesting.

I like the fact that the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer has a very wide tablet holder integrated with the top of the display so that you can watch programs or even read a book while you are working out on the machine. Some of the other ellipticals that I have looked at have only a small platform to hold your mobile, or no rack at all. This hybrid trainer also gives you the ability to plug in your MP3 player or iPod so that you can listen to motivational workout music and be inspired to go just a little longer in your sessions.

A Very Silent Profile

This hybrid trainer uses SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance; this type of resistance is known to be smooth and virtually silent, so you will be able to concentrate on the expertly-crafted lyrics from your favorite singer while you work out, without having to strain your ears. Clearly this will also be good for persons who like to watch TV or programs on their tablet as well. Silent performance also means that you can use this hybrid trainer without disturbing other people who are close by.

The console on the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer has 14 training workout apps to keep you engaged and motivated to reach your fitness goals. These apps were designed by a fitness trainer to help you get the most out of your workout sessions on this machine. If you happen to be a superhuman and master all 14 programs, the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer’s console is equipped to work with iFit Bluetooth (you will need to pay for a subscription) and you will have access to a virtually unlimited library of workouts from popular TV trainers. That should be more than enough to challenge even Superman himself.

High Weight Capacity

The manufacturers used a very durable steel to make the frame on the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer; it is so strong that is can accommodate up to 350 pounds of weight. This capacity is significantly higher than what you will find on most ellipticals, even the more expensive models. With such a high weight-capacity, a variety of people will be able to use the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer for exercise. I think that is great, because their are many people who are overweight and have trouble finding exercise machines strong enough to help them shed the pounds without their going to an actual gym. Sometimes they can find the gym intimidating, and often they don’t want to workout with other people watching.

Needs A Better Warranty

While the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer does have a 5-year warranty on its frame, the 90-day warranty on its parts and labor is rather limited. Exercise machines are notorious for breaking down occasionally, especially with regular use. For this reason I would feel better buying the ProForm if it had a longer warranty on parts and labor. 90 days just isn’t enough, if you ask me. Fortunately, when you buy the ProForm Hybrid from reputable retailers like Amazon you will have the option of purchasing additional protection, so if you decide that the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer is the machine you want, you can still get the coverage you need for it, although for an additional cost.

Verdict

So do I recommend the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer? The short answer is yes, I do. It will give you great value for money to have two exercise machines for the price of one, and the price of this machine is quite low compared to the combined price you would pay for a separate elliptical and recumbent bike. You will also save on the space needed to accommodate both machines in your home; for me, less clutter is always a good thing. I do have some reservations, however, because the warranty is so limited. The warranty offered by a manufacturer is usually a pretty good indicator as to the durability of their product and 90 days is not saying very much to me. I wasn’t able to find many complaints about the durability of the ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer from users, so I will take that as a good sign despite the limited warranty. In any case, as mentioned earlier, you do have the option to purchase additional coverage and that is something I would definitely recommend if you purchase this hybrid trainer.

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