LifeCore CD500 Elliptical Trainer Review

In talking to the head of LifeCore Fitness, he felt that the center drive crosstrainers were a sure bet for the design of his new generation of ellipticals.  LifeCore has made a name building some of the best compact elliptical trainers.  In fact, one received a "Best Buy" rating from a prestigious consumer magazine.  However, there are some inherent advantages to a center drive design.  They are...

• Stability
• Compact
• Natural Center Positioning

Now, it was not the intention of LifeCore to build just another center drive elliptical trainer.  Like their compact ellipticals, they wanted their machines to be exceptional quality at a reasonable price.

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Note: As of 9/7/10 the LifeCore CD500 was selling for $2,199 with free shipping and they are including a heart rate monitor strap. Go to www.LifecoreStore.com for the lastest deal.*

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The LifeCore CD500 elliptical trainer is a perfect example. It offers the advantages of a center drive design, but also includes the quality that LifeCore is known for.  In addition, the LifeCore CD500 offers a variable stride feature that makes this elliptical even more appealing.

LifeCore CD500 Elliptical Trainer Features

Center Drive Design - In comparison to a front or rear drive elliptical, the center design models tends to better position an individual while they exercise - It is a more natural positioning. Also, unlike a front drive design, you don't have the pedals sitting on rollers that are more likely to wear out, or make obnoxious rubbing noises. 

17" - 25" Variable Stride - More and more elliptical trainers either include an incline feature or the ability to vary the stride length.  Both offer the advantage of focusing your workout on different parts of your lower body.  However, the variable stride can also accommodate users of different heights.  For example, if you have a user that is 5'3" and one that is 6'1", there really isn't one elliptical trainer that can work adequately for both. 

With the variable stride, you can adjust the motion to your personal comfort level.  Furthermore, by adjusting the stride length you can concentrate your workout on different lower body muscles like glutes, calves, quads and hamstrings.

The problem with a single stride elliptical is that it limits your workout, and unfortunately your body adjusts to the motion, further reducing the benefits.

Compact Design - The LifeCore CD500 elliptical is only 42" in length.  Compare that to a typical front drive elliptical trainer like the Sole F55, which is 82" long.  The CD500 takes up almost half the length.  If you have limited space, this elliptical could be your solution.

Stability - Because of the combination of the unit weight (293 lbs.) and the square footprint, the LifeCore CD500 is a very stable unit.  It has a user weight limit of 300 lbs., which seems realistic in comparison to the exaggerated  recommended user weight limits of many other brands.  

Close 2" Pedal Spacing - The close pedal spacing results in a more natural feel.  This is particularly true for females that are below average height.

LifeCore Quality - Of course, when I talk to the head of LifeCore he states that the quality of his ellipticals are second to none.  However, what is more revealing is my conversations with fitness equipment salespeople, and they seem to be very impressed with the engineering and design of LifeCore elliptical trainers. LifeCore goes the extra mile to make their ellipticals smooth, durable and quiet.  One reason is they use sealed bearings rather than bushings in all their pivotal joints. 

In the case of the CD500 LifeCore Incorporated the feedback from professional trainers to further enhanced the functionality of this machine.

Our Review - LifeCore CD500 Elliptical Trainer

LifeCore has been making strides in the fitness equipment industry.  And in the process they are cutting into the market share of those who are living on past laurels. One of the reasons is they build some of the best quality elliptical trainers in their price range.  The LifeCore CD500 reflects that quality while offering a design that can provide a challenging workout.  Features like the variable stride, the large LED display, sweeping handlebars,  low step-up and challenging programs make this model a serious contender at the $2,000.

Learn more at at LifeCoreStore.com.