Horizon Fitness EX-76 Elliptical Trainer Review
There
are a number of features on the Horizon EX-76 elliptical trainer
that make it appealing. Overall, the price is very competitive,
especially when selling for $1,000. In the past Horizon had
some serious issues with their quality control. They appear
to have made some improvements with their next generation of
ellipticals. However, you need to be aware at this price range
you are not getting a commercial grade machine.
Features on the Horizon EX-76 Elliptical Trainer…
Power Incline - The EX-76 has the ability to adjust
the incline of the elliptical stride. It is similar to adjusting
the incline on a treadmill. And like a treadmill, when you crank
up the incline you are able to target different muscles in your
lower body. Furthermore, you will find that by raising the incline
you can increase the intensity of your workout.
For
those who have workout on a Precor in a health club, you will
find the Horizon incline is different. The incline function
is in the rear of the machine, rather than the front. They probably
designed it this way to get around the Precor patent. However,
it still gives you that intense cardio burn.
Sound System - It seems everyone is equipping their
ellipticals with sound systems in 2008. Although not one of
the best sound systems I have heard on an elliptical, it still
is decent, and you can plug in your MP3 player and recharge
it.
18"-19" Elliptical Stride - The stride length
on the Horizon EX-76 is adequate for most average height individuals,
people not exceeding approximately 6'2". If you are not
certain if the stride is right, you can find an equivalent version
of the machine at Dick's Sporting.
Workout Programs - You get a generous selection of programs
of sixteen exercise programs. They include, Intervals 1, Intervals
2, Rolling 1, Rolling 2, Weight Loss 1, Weight Loss 2, Reverse
Train 1, Reverse Train 2, Random 1, Random 2, Race, Incline
1, Incline 2, Custom 1, and Custom 2.
Console
and Display - I personally like the layout and look of the
display. At this price range you can get some really cheap looking
consoles. The EX-76 console gives multiple readouts and provides
a progression chart.
Narrow Pedal Gate - If you are under 5'5" you will
appreciate the short width between the pedals. Not all ellipticals
fit all people, and a wide gate can be very discomforting to
shorter individuals.
Machine Weight - The Horizon EX-76 weighs a hefty 220
lbs., which is fairly heavy for a $1,000 elliptical. What that
means is you are getting a machine that will be reasonably stable.
Of course, if you plan to move it yourself it is going to be
a bitch.
Our Review - Horizon EX-76 Elliptical Trainer
Horizon is making strides in their elliptical trainers. The
features are impressive and the prices are very competitive.
I still have some minor concerns about their quality control,
but it is improving. Also be aware this is a moderate priced
elliptical. It is not built for someone geared to do regular,
intense workouts. Furthermore, the 300 lb. weight limit is pushing
it. I feel 220 lbs. is more realistic.
Is this the best value at $999? That's a tough question. However,
for an elliptical with the incline function you only have two
Icon brands that have the same feature for the same price NordicTrack
and ProForm.
You may want to shop and compare, but overall this is a good
value.
Customer Review
I recently purchased this elliptical after months of shopping
around, looking at options. I was reluctant at 1st because the
price was about the same as a much lower-end elliptical. The
quality here is far superior to others in this price range.
The design is sleek, the functionality superb. It's a great
machine and it doesn't look like an eyesore in my house.
Also see the Horizon EX66 Elliptical Review