While there some nice features to rave about with the Xterra Elliptical Trainer, there also are some weak points. Read on to find out what compromises were made on this product and whether they should keep you from making a purchase.

Stride

The stride on this machine is a little shorter than what would be considered ideal. Measuring in at 14”, the stride length is likely to make people more than 6 feet tall feel confined. Keep that in mind if you are above average height for a male. Otherwise, you should not experience any serious confinement while working out. In fact, you will enjoy a very smooth motion that does a good job of mimicking the natural stride of a walker or jogger.

The flywheel on the standard model weighs in at 17.6 pounds, and it is possible to upgrade to a 22 pound flywheel. Many users have found that the bigger and more expensive option delivers roughly the same experience as the smaller version. Both flywheel options are relatively heavy and capable of preventing wobble during workouts. This machine has excellent balance.

Resistance

The Xterra Elliptical Trainer has a greater than average number of resistance levels. While many similarly priced machines try to get away with 10, or even 8, levels of resistance, the Xterra comes with a whopping 16. This means that you should have no problem setting this machine to the exact difficulty level that works for you.

Programs

You will find 13 different pre-set programs on the Xterra Elliptical Trainer. There are other ellipticals that retail for double the price of the Xterra that only come with 10 programs. With options for weight loss, calorie goals, heart rate control, custom, and time trials, this machine comes with capabilities that are even hard to find on much pricier models.

Console

The console includes a large 5 x 2.5 inch LCD display screen. This monitor provides feedback on the most common workout metrics, including time, distance, and calories burned. Hand grip pulse sensors make it possible for you to track your heart rate on the screen. Unfortunately, many users find the pulse reading to be inaccurate. Another unfortunate issue with the monitor is that there is no backlight, which makes reading the screen difficult without plenty of light in the room.

Comfort

While the Xterra Elliptical Trainer may have trouble matching the comfort levels provided by some of its more expensive competitors, that is not to say it does not provide a pleasant workout experience. The Xterra comes with oversized pedals and cushioned handlebars.

Oversized Pedals

Assembly and Storage

The machine arrives with some parts to assemble. In order to speed up the process you may want to use your own tools rather than the ones included in the shipping box. Even with quality tools, the process can still take as long as two to three hours. Some have reported that poor instructions also contribute to the long and sometimes frustrating assembly experience.

Storing the Xterra Elliptical Trainer is much simpler thanks to handy transport wheels. Without those, this 112 machine might be a real challenge to move from one room to the next.

Warranty

The machine comes with two warranties. The frame is covered for five years and the parts for one year.

Dimensions

When fully assembled, the Xterra Elliptical Trainer measures 63.8 x 25 x 50.8 inches.

User reviews

The Xterra Elliptical Trainer has received mostly good reviews from users on Amazon. Approximately 40 people have weighed in with their opinion. The average rating clocks in at around four out of five stars, which is roughly average for a piece of exercise equipment.

Many users are surprised to find that the Xterra Elliptical Trainer has as many resistance levels and workout programs as it does. They also comment on the smoothness and stability of the elliptical motion as well as its quietness.

Complaints

Many of the complaints are centered on the assembly process. With many users reporting well over two hours in assembly time, it is easy to see why there are complaints. With that said, this is a one-time problem that should not crop up again in the life of the machine. Some reviewers also have removed a half or full point from their rating because of the poor lighting on the LCD display.

Final Recommendation

The Xterra Elliptical Trainer has many resistance levels, ample pre-set programs, and it even allows users to target diverse muscle groups by offering forward and reverse directions. These are great features for a machine in this price range. The assembly and display issues are enough to keep this model from being a perfect option, but it certainly does offer nice value. It would be a smart purchase for any exerciser six feet and under and 250 pounds or less.

The post Xterra Elliptical Trainer Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Stride

With a stride length of 18 inches, the Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer can provide enough the vast majority of users with a comfortable experience. Only very tall users may feel confined while working out.

Just is as important as length is the smoothness of the stride. Fortunately, Schwinn nailed this as well. A heavy flywheel ensure stable, wobble-free striding that can provide a smooth stride for users up to 300 pounds.

Resistance

There are a generous amount of resistance levels on the Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer. You can choose from 16 different difficulty settings, making it easy to locate the perfect level according to your own fitness. Users in excellent shape should have no trouble finding a challenge in the higher difficulty levels.

Programs and Features

There are 10 workout programs that come pre-programmed on the Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer. With profile, feedback, custom and quick start options available, it is easy to mix things up and maintain high levels of focus and interest in workout regimens.

As I mentioned in the opening, this manufacturer is known for adding plenty of extra features to their machines. In the case of the Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer, that comes in the form of a three-speed fan, built-in speakers, a reading rack, and a water bottle holder. Some of these features have minor drawbacks, but most users will be glad to have them.

Console

An LCD monitor measures 5 x 2.25 inches and displays feedback on RPM, distance, speed, calories burned, resistance, and course profile. Heart rate grips make it convenient to measure and track your pulse.

Comfort

Oversized, articulating foot plates do a good job of providing users with a comfortable experience from the bottom up. Six levelers combine to ensure that the device is well balanced at its base.

The longer than average stride length is also a key factor in the comfort of this machine. Unless you are very tall, you should feel good about your ability to take a natural and comfortable stride.

Assembly and Storage

Many users have reported a long assembly process. If you decide to go ahead and purchase the Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer, you should be prepared to set aside at least two hours, maybe closer to three if you are not handy.

Transport wheels make this machine easier to move than it would have been otherwise, but at 150 pounds in weight, it is still a bit challenging to change positions or locations. Storage should not be too hard though.

Warranty

The Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer has a five-year warranty on the frame, a one-year warranty on parts, a one-year warranty on mechanical and electrical components, and 90-day warranties on both parts and labor.

Dimensions

The dimensions are 62 x 26 x 71 inches when fully assembled.

User reviews

The Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer has not been on the market that long. It came out in 2013. That has been long enough to attract approximately 20 reviews on the Amazon product page. While it is still early, it appears this machine is receiving slightly below average ratings thus far.

The early positive comments have focused on the sturdiness, compactness, and the smoothness of this machine. These comments seem to suggest that Schwinn nailed most of the basic requirements from users.

Complaints

There have been some minor quality control issues reported. Some users have said that they were shipped parts that were the wrong size, or that parts were not included. Fortunately, Schwinn has good customer service and has responded quickly. Other users complain that the assembly process is too long.

Final Recommendation

The Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer has some nice additional features like a fan and speakers, but it also gets most of the basics right. This machine is very well-built and capable of delivering a highly effective workout. At its current price, it represents good value for the money.

The post Schwinn 425 Elliptical Trainer Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

According to users and reviewers, the Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike provides an effective workout for the price. In fact, it is considered to be one of the best value purchases in its price range. Read on to find out about the positives and negatives associated with this machine.

Flywheel

The vast majority of users seem to find that the flywheel is sturdy and capable of delivering a very smooth and consistent workout. However, there has been at least one reported case of a flywheel that broke down within the first six months of use. Apparently the user found that the flywheel began to rub against the resistance magnets after it broke in at least one place. While this does not seem to be a common complaint, it is something to keep in mind. This potential negative may be outweighed by the fact that many users love the quiet, smooth workout that is possible due to the magnetic resistance of the Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike.

Resistance

The magnetic resistance system on the Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike allows users to choose from eight different levels of difficulty. A tension dial makes fine tuning the resistance level a snap.

Comfort

As you might expect with a budget bike, this machine leaves a little to be desired when it comes to comfort. The seat is always a key component on this type of equipment, and unfortunately users have found this one to be too hard. If you do not mind spending an extra $15 for a gel seat cover, you could have an easy fix for this problem.

Programs and Features

The Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike comes with six workout programs in place. While you will find more options on more expensive machines, the programs included here do a reasonable job of diversifying the workout and keeping users engaged. It has a pace guide to ensure you stay within appropriate difficulty levels according to your fitness goals.

Display

A battery powered monitor is capable of tracking key workout data like time, speed, distance, and calories burned. The aero handlebars have pulse sensors that make it possible to track your heart rate on the display.

Assembly and Storage

Assembly is a very simple process. Very few users have reported any kind of issues while putting this machine together for the first time.

Storage is also a snap thanks to the small size of the Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike. As one of the smallest machines of its kind on the market, this could be an ideal choice for someone whose main concern is limited workout and storage space.

Warranty

The Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike comes with a one-year warranty for the frame and a 90-day warranty for the parts.

Dimensions

With dimensions of 32 x 21 x 51 inches, the Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike is a very compact piece of equipment. It only weighs 65 pounds.

User Reviews

The Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike has received an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from users on Amazon. With more than 140 reviews already in, it appears that the exercising community has declared this an average piece of equipment. However, average is not so bad when you consider that the Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike is one-third the price of many other options out there.

When leaving positive comments, most users have focused on the bike’s compactness, the fact that it has effective built-in programs, the adjustability of the resistance, and its quietness during operation.

Any Complaints?

The issue with a part breaking in the flywheel was mentioned earlier. More consistent complaints are aimed at the uncomfortable seat on this machine. Again, this issue has a quick and relatively cheap solution: buy a $15 gel seat cover from another company.

Final Recommendation

Many users know exactly what they are getting into when they purchase an exercise bike for $200. A machine in this price range is unlikely to come with high end features or to last for years. In this case, the lack of comfort and durability seem to be outweighed by the fact that this machine can deliver a quiet, effective workout in a compact package.

The post Stamina 5325 Magnetic Resistance Upright Exercise Bike Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Flywheel

Flywheels have a bigger impact on the smoothness of the pedaling motion than anything else. A poor flywheel will often lead to inconsistent tension and wobbly workouts. While this product has a flywheel that is relatively light at 8.8 pounds, some other measures taken by the manufacturer have ensured a smooth, natural, and wobble-free operation.

Flywheels also can cause trouble with the noise they put out. Fortunately, this does not appear to be a problem for the Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike. You will be able to workout quietly without waking your kids, roommates, or neighbors. This also makes it easy to listen to music or watch TV while working out.

Resistance

The Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike comes with a surprisingly large number of resistance levels. With 20 different difficulty levels to choose from, you will have a very hard time finding another product with the same amount of options for under $1,000. You should have no trouble fine tuning the machine to your exact fitness level.

Comfort

In general, exercise bikes are not known for comfort. They are great if you want to get a quick, effective workout in your own home, but most experienced users will tell you that you may finish your workout with a sore bottom. This is certainly the case for most machines under $600. Having said that, the Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike has a contoured, oversized seat that delivers above average comfort. It adjusts horizontally and vertically for a customized fit that should work for almost any body size.

Programs and Features

Like other machines from this manufacturer, the Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike has a wide range of workout programs. These preprogrammed workouts add variety to a fitness regimen and they keep users engaged. Thanks to these 11 programs, you should have an improved chance of sticking to your goals.

Livetrack

The best part of the computer on this machine is that it allows you access to Livetrack Interactive Technology. If you have never heard of this feature, you should know that it is exclusively available on Livestrong products. It is a big part of the reason that some people have switched to Livestrong over other brands. By transferring a USB device from this machine to your computer, you can record and upload your workout stats in order to get feedback and make improvements. Livetrack also gives you access to programs designed by Peter Park, former conditioning coach to Lance Armstrong.

Display

Some budget bikes come with poorly lit, difficult to read LCD displays. That is not the case with the Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike. It allows you to easily track and read workout stats like resistance, speed, watts, time, distance, and calories burned. Accurate heart rate readings also are possible thanks to the grip sensors.

Speakers

As long as you are not an audiophile, you should be happy with the sound quality of the built-in speakers. This is a nice feature that works well compared to speakers on similar equipment.

Assembly and Storage

A straightforward assembly process should keep your time commitment relatively low. All the necessary tools are provided in the box, but as usual, you should use your own to get the best results.

The size and weight of the Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike are both average to below average, meaning storage is not difficult. You should be able to move this machine by yourself.

Warranty

Livestrong offers a 10-year warranty for the frame and a one-year warranty for all parts and labor.

Dimensions

The Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike measures 22 x 41 x 56 inches and weighs 86 pounds.

User Reviews

Like many other Livestrong products, this machine has received above average reviews. This is clear from the average rating from reviewers on Amazon. The Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike has received a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from approximately 45 reviewers thus far.

Users love the quietness of the machine, the quality of its construction, the effectiveness of the workout experience it provides, and the smooth pedaling motion.

QuickZip Pedals

Any Complaints?

Only minor complaints have been lodged at this machine. There have been a very small number of users who have reported parts breaking or wearing down after 18 months or more, but that is not unusual for machines in much higher price ranges. If there have been consistent negatives noted by users, it is that the machine must power down on its own rather than through an on/off switch and that it is slightly less comfortable for shorter people.

Final Recommendation

The positives greatly outweigh the negatives on this bike. If you are looking for a product in the mid price range, this could be the one, especially if you would use the added features provided by Livetrack.

The post Livestrong LS5.0U Upright Bike Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Rowing Motion

There are some rowing machines out on the market that can truly provide you with a lifelike rowing motion. Unfortunately, those machines tend to be in a higher price range. The motion on the Phoenix 98900 Power Rowing Machine is what you would expect from the budget category. It is smooth and comfortable, but without that lifelike feeling of being out on the water.

The machine is designed well enough to provide a safe, comfortable, and effective workout for anyone dealing with injuries or conditions in their joints.

Comfort

The Phoenix 98900 Power Rowing Machine is surprisingly comfortable for a budget rower. The well-padded, polyurethane seat should provide ample support for those long rowing sessions. This is not something you can say about every machine on the market. Oversized footplates with adjustable straps also add to the overall comfort of this product.

Resistance

Many budget rowing machines use wind resistance systems. The Phoenix 98900 Power Rowing Machine is one of the few that has a magnetic resistance system. Many users find that they prefer the adjustability and the quietness of magnetic systems. Users report that this machine is capable of delivering a highly challenging workout at the highest levels of resistance and that the lower levels are still well-suited to someone starting out with a new exercise regimen.

Computer Console

The LCD monitor is capable of tracking and displaying speed, distance, and calories burned. This is a relatively small amount of data to track, and it appears the calories counter is inaccurate. When you throw in the fact that the LCD screen is small and hard to read, it is clear that Phoenix did not put much focus on this feature.

Assembly and Storage

The Phoenix 98900 Power Rowing Machine is of average weight for this type of product, so it is not especially difficult for one person to handle the assembly. Very few users have reported difficulty during assembly.

A foldable frame and storage wheels combine to make this product extremely easy to store. This might be one of the best features if you are dealing with limited space.

Warranty

The 98900 comes with a one-year frame warranty and a 90-day parts warranty.

Dimensions

The dimensions are 81.5 x 24 x 26.4 inches when fully assembled and 26 x 24.4 x 62.2 inches when folded. The 98900 weighs 81 pounds.

User Reviews

Reviews have leaned more toward the negative side. With an average rating of 3.1 out of 5 stars from more than 30 reviews on Amazon, it is clear that customers have plenty to complain about. Having said that, there are some positives that consistently get mentioned. These include the low price of this machine, the effectiveness of the workout experience, and the magnetic resistance system.

Any Complaints?

There are several complaints lodged by users on the Amazon product page. The most serious seems to be persistent reports of damaged parts in the shipping box. If you cannot be confident you are going to receive a fully functioning product, it is hard to follow through on a purchase. Other reviewers have pointed out that this rower emits some loud creaks and squeaks.

Final Recommendation

In general, the axiom ‘you get what you pay for’ definitely applies to exercise equipment. The Phoenix 98900 Power Rowing Machine is one clear case of a budget-friendly piece of equipment that has made some obvious compromises in order to keep its price down. If you are simply looking for a cheap, entry-level rower, this product does have something to offer. Otherwise, you should look elsewhere.

The post Phoenix 98900 Power Rowing Machine Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

To determine whether it is a smart move to compromise on features in order to get high quality components, you can read this Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike review.

Flywheel

This machine is equipped with a precision balanced flywheel. When you combine the precision of the flywheel with the V-belt transmission system, you get a compact bike that is capable of delivering a powerful yet quiet workout experience. Many exercisers love to listen to music or watch TV during a workout, and this bike should not interfere with that.

The balance of the flywheel also allows for a stable, wobble-free workout. This also cuts down on the noise produced during a workout.

Resistance

The magnetic resistance system includes eight different levels of difficulty. The resistance variety should provide users of different fitness levels with a comfortable fit. Changing from one resistance level to another is easy thanks to a precise adjustment knob.

Comfort

While many bikes leave a lot to be desired when it comes to comfort, the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike is surprisingly soft and cushiony. The bike also features a backrest that promotes balance and good posture.

This machine comes with oversized pedals that should be comfortable for feet of all sizes. Safety straps over the pedals will keep a user’s feet secure during a workout. The pedaling motion is always smooth thanks to a high-torque crank system.

Features

Computer Monitor

Users have come to expect at least a basic set of data tracking capabilities on almost every piece of exercise equipment. While the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike cannot be thought of as a feature-rich machine, it does provide the usual basic feedback on heart rate, time, speed, distance traveled, and calories burned.

Some users have expressed concerns about the monitor on this machine. Read the “Any Complaints” section below for further information.

Assembly and Storage

Stripping away the extra features on an exercise bike should make it easier to put together. That appears to be the case for the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike. It has very few components to assemble, and it also benefits from being packaged with very detailed instructions. Assembly can take as little as 30 minutes for one person.

The Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike has a compact design that makes it especially easy to store. It also comes with wheels to make moving and storing the machine even easier.

Warranty

The Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike comes with a limited one-year warranty.

Dimensions

Measuring just 19 x 46 x 33 inches, the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike has a very compact design that can fit comfortably in a small home or an apartment. It folds down into the size of a chair. At only 39 pounds, it is extremely lightweight.

User Reviews

The Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike has earned high marks from consumers. Approximately 550 people have already written reviews on the Amazon page for this product, with the average rating clocking in at out of 5 stars. This is about as high as you will see for any piece of exercise equipment.

The positive comments focus on the compact design of this bike, its quietness during operation, the effectiveness of the workout it delivers, and its sturdiness. However, there have been some minor complaints.

Any Complaints?

Many users have found the heart rate monitor to be inaccurate. Considering that this is a very common problem for exercise equipment, this should not come as a big surprise.

Some users also have remarked that the computer monitor sticks out too far from the frame of the bike. Apparently this makes it easy to slam a knee into the monitor when getting on or off the bike.

Final Recommendation

The complaints are relatively minor compared to all the positive comments coming from users. It is clear that the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike is a quality machine that delivers a sturdy, effective workout experience. Considering how compact this piece of equipment is, it should be at the top of the list for anyone dealing with limited space.

The post Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Rowing Motion

The Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine comes equipped with hydraulic resistance cylinders. Combined with the easy gliding seat motion provided by deluxe ball bearings, this machine is capable of delivering a very smooth and lifelike overall rowing motion.

Comfort

The seat has an ergonomic design that should provide comfort throughout long workouts. Padded hand grips ensure that a user’s hands will not receive a beating while going through the rowing motion over and over. Oversized foot plates make it easy to find a comfortable fit for feet of all sizes.

Resistance

The user can adjust the resistance cylinders to deliver a range of difficulty. This device can provide a suitable workout no matter what kind of shape the user is in. Most advanced users will find that the extra stiff pistons on this model make it easy to achieve an intense, challenging workout.

Computer Console

Advanced users may find that the computer console on this machine is a little lacking in features. While the monitor is easy to read, it cannot provide much in the way of feedback. It will only track your number of strokes, calories burned, distance traveled, and elapsed time, and speed. There are other rowers out there that provide a wide range of programs to make workouts more effective and more varied.

Assembly and Storage

Weighing in at only 48 pounds, this is a very lightweight piece of equipment. It should be easy to ship and receive the Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine due to its low weight. Assembly is also aided by the lack of heavy components.

While it is easy to move this model, it is not so easy to store it. This is because it does not fold down into a more convenient storage shape. Many users have reported that it is difficult to find a good storage space for the machine due to its length.

Warranty

Users receive a five-year warranty on the frame and a 90-day warranty covering all parts.

Dimensions

This machine measures 48 x 32.5 x 27.8 inches and weighs 46 pounds.

User Reviews

The Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine has received mixed reviews. It has received a below average rating from users on Amazon. While your typical middle of the road rower would likely receive an average rating of out of 5 stars, this machine only has an average rating of out of 5.

There have been plenty of positive comments, however. The good reviews tend to focus on the comfort of this machine, its quietness, and its sturdiness.

Any Complaints?

Complaints have centered on three particular issues. The most important issue is regarding quality control. Several reviewers commented that they had trouble with the pistons and/or other key parts. For the most part, people say that the Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine is sturdy and well built, but quality seems to be a little inconsistent. The lack of a folding design for easier storage and the inaccuracy of the heart rate monitor are the two other most common complaints.

Final Recommendation

The Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine appears to have some minor quality control issues. Considering that this is a very affordable piece of equipment, that should not come as a shock. If you have a very strict budget and you are a novice exerciser that does not care about high end programs and features, this machine may still be a good option. Otherwise, you should probably look elsewhere.

The post Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Motor

As a manual treadmill, this machine does not come with a motor. You will have to supply all the power when you ride the 98516. There are two advantages to this. First, the lack of a motor means the item is going to be significantly cheaper than its electronic competitors. Second, it offers the user greater control over speed and difficulty. If you want a more intense workout, you can simply speed up, rather than having to deal with programmed workouts or settings buttons.

Treadbelt

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill comes with a fixed incline that helps facilitate the spinning of the treadbelt. While this feature is necessary to make the spinning of the belt smoother, it leads to an uncomfortably difficult workout experience for some. If you prefer the relaxed pace of a manual treadmill on a low setting, the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill may not be ideal for you.

The running surface measures 41.5 x 13.5 inches. Compared to many other treadmills, this is rather small. Any tall exercisers, or those who prefer to take an extra long stride while jogging or running, may want to look at another product. Smaller running space is just one of the compromises you should expect to make when you buy a budget machine. If you just cannot stand to feel confined while running, you are going to have to step up into the higher price brackets.

Computer Monitor

While the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill is certainly not packed with technological features, it does come with a computer monitor. It displays the typical workout metrics, including distance traveled, time elapsed, speed, and calories burned. Two AA batteries are required to run the monitor, but they come in the box.

Monitor

Assembly and Storage

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill comes with few pieces and is very easy to assemble. One person should have no problem completing the task alone.

The easy folding design is definitely one of the best features on this machine. If you are dealing with limited space in your workout area, you will love how the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill folds down to dimensions of 22 x 21 x 50 inches.

Easy folding

Warranty

The frame is covered for up to one year; parts are covered for 90 days.

Dimensions

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill measures 46 x 21 x 50 when it is fully assembled. It can hold a maximum user weight of 250 pounds.

User Reviews

There are mixed reviews for this product. It has an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars from Amazon reviewers. While there are many users who feel that the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill has too many shortcomings, plenty others feel it offers a good value for the money. Users find the machine to be well constructed and capable of delivering a highly effective workout.

Any Complaints?

Some of the issues have already been mentioned. The treadbelt offers a relatively small running surface that is not ideal for taller users or people with a long stride. It also comes with a fixed incline that some users find to be difficult to exercise on.

Final Recommendation

The most important thing is to understand what you are getting into when you purchase the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill. It does not have the technological features that some users like to see. It also makes compromises on running surface and adjustability of the incline. If these issues do not concern you, you will benefit from the fact that this machine offers a highly effective workout for a small price. If you already know from experience that you do not mind working out on a manual treadmill, this product can offer you great value.

The post Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Motor

The Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill is a smooth and quiet ride thanks to the 2.25 horsepower motor. The continuous duty engine can provide a steady and smooth belt motion for users up to 225 pounds. Even at the max speed and incline, you can expect the same experience.

Treadbelt

The key feature on the treadbelt is the Aerosoft cushioning system. This will help relieve any stress you may feel in your legs or feet during a workout. For users who have conditions that impact their knees and ankles, this can be a very valuable feature.

The running surface measures 18 inches by 50 inches, which is a typical size that should only feel confining to users who are very tall.

Programs and Other Features

You will find seven pre-programmed programs on the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill. These programs include endurance challenges, weight loss, cardio, mountain and hill climb, intervals, and manual. If you find that you get bored easily during a workout, these programs may provide a little extra incentive to stay interested and motivated.

Computer Monitor

You can track the progress of your distance, speed, calories burned, and more with the LED display monitor on the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill. It also comes with a thumb pulse monitor to track your heart rate during a workout.

Assembly and Storage

Some users have reported that the assembly process is very tedious. It may take up to two hours to properly put this machine together. At approximately 120 pounds, it may be too heavy for you to assemble by yourself.

The frame of the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill folds down to make storage easier. However, it may not be very easy to move the device because of its weight.

Warranty

This machine has a lifetime frame warranty, a two-year motor warranty, and a 90-day labor and parts warranty.

Dimensions

The Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill measures 31 x 52 x 71 inches and weighs 121 pounds.

User Reviews

More than 130 customers have weighed in with their opinion on the Amazon product page for this treadmill. While not everyone has recommended the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill, they do have plenty of positive comments to make. Compliments most often mention the smoothness and strength of the motor, the diversity of the workout programs, and the overall construction quality.

Any Complaints?

Some tall users have complained about the size of the running/walking deck. Unfortunately, that is a problem they will find with every budget treadmill. Other users have suggested that the max user weight capacity is closer to 225 pounds than the listed 250 pounds. If you require a higher weight capacity, it may be safe to look at another option.

Final Recommendation

The Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill currently costs under $450, which makes it a very smart purchase when you consider some of the great features it has. The motor and the pre-set programs are strong points on this machine, which is rare for a budget-friendly treadmill.

The post Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

When it comes to budget friendly exercise equipment, it is important to fully assess all the ways that the manufacturer compromised in order to keep the price down. This review will give you an in-depth look at the Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike.

Flywheel

The dual-action fan is a major feature of this bike. Its patent-pending design offers a cutting edge way to displace air and produce infinite levels of resistance. Many users have remarked that the fan provides a smooth workout experience, but there are some concerns about the amount of noise it creates.

Resistance

Schwinn exercise bikes have been known for their wind resistance technology for more than 30 years now. Thanks to this technology, achieving higher levels of resistance is as easy as pedaling your bike faster. Lowering resistance is as simple as slowing down. This makes the Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike a good fit for people of any fitness level.

The Airdyne AD2 fan design displaces air effectively for an infinite number of resistance levels.

Comfort

This bike comes with a padded seat that is supposed to provide extra comfort during long workouts. Unfortunately, some users have complained that the seat is not comfortable. Purchasing a separate gel seat cover should fix the problem.

Features

Computer Monitor

The Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike comes with an LCD screen that offers feedback on many of the basic workout metrics that a user would need. You can track time, RPM, distance, speed, and calories burned. Users have found the data to be accurate and easy to read.

Moveable Handlebars

The handlebars on this machine are completely synchronized to the pedals. This means the user will receive an equally effective workout for their arms and their legs.

The Airdyne AD2 allows for simultaneous upper/lower body workouts or upper body only.

Deluxe Floor Protectors

If it drives you nuts when a piece of exercise equipment scuffs your floors or rubs away at your carpet, you will love this feature. The included deluxe floor protectors should be enough to keep this machine from causing any damage, but you also may want to place a mat under the machine.

Transport Wheels

The Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike is a little heavy at 96 pounds, but transport wheels on the bottom of the machine make it much easier to move. One person should be able to move this product when it needs to be stored.

Assembly and Storage

Schwinn was thoughtful enough to provide detailed assembly instructions that are easy to read and understand. This should significantly cut down on assembly time. The bike also has a simple design, so you should expect a quick and painless assembly process.

Storage is rather easy due to the transport wheels mentioned earlier. This bike won’t fold down into a conveniently small package, but at least you can wheel it into a more secluded area when it is not in use.

Warranty

The Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike comes with a five-year frame warranty, a one-year parts and electronics warranty, and a 90-day labor and wear parts warranty.

Dimensions

This bike measures 58 x 25 x 48 inches. It weighs 96 pounds out of the box.

User Reviews

In general, the Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike is getting positive reviews from users. With approximately 170 reviews posted on Amazon, the average overall rating stands at out of 5 stars.

Users have pointed to the easy assembly process, the full body workout experience, the affordable price, and the highly customizable resistance system as the best features of this product. However, there are a couple of issues that are holding this bike back from getting a higher overall score from customers.

Any Complaints?

The seat is a common target for complaints. Users do not find that it provides enough comfort during a workout. This problem does have a rather simple solution, though. Purchasing a gel seat cover should always make any piece of exercise equipment a bit more comfortable.

Users have also remarked that the Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike is rather loud. More noise should be expected with a bike that has wind resistance technology. A magnetic resistance bike should provide a quieter experience if that is a must for your workouts.

Final Recommendation

Many consumers will be thrilled to learn that there is now a dual action fan bike on the market that is affordable. While you may have to compromise on noise and comfort a bit, the Schwinn AD2 Airdyne Exercise Bike delivers on its promise of providing a full body workout with infinite resistance.

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