Precor
EFX 5.19 Elliptical Trainer Review
With
250 patents, it would suggest that Precor is a leading innovator of fitness equipment,
and they are. In fact, they invented the concept of an elliptical trainer. They
have certain features on their ellipticas that are not available on other brands.
This is due to the protection of the patents.
For
those that are not familiar with Precor, they basically have two type of elliptical
trainers. There are the models with the adjustable ramp. It is called the Crossramp
Technology, and it allows you to adjust the angle of the ramp to various degrees.
These ellipticals do not have upper body handlebars. You only get a lower body
workout. The Precor EFX 5.19 does not have the adjustable ramp, but does have
the upper body workout.
Dual
Action vs. Adjustable Ramp - Which is Better?
So
which is preferable, the fixed ramp with lower and upper body workout, or the
adjustable ramp with only lower body exercise? The adjustable ramp models are
extremely popular, particularly in health clubs. By adjusting the angle, you can
exercise different muscle groups in your lower body. On the other hand, the mass
appeal of the elliptical trainer is the dual action workout. The dual action allows
you to exercise multiple upper and lower muscle groups, thereby optimizing your
workout.
Regardless,
all Precor elliptical trainers are built to last and will be low maintenance.
Their quality is unsurpassed.
Fitness
Source Review - Precor EFX 5.19
The
Precor EFX 5.19 elliptical trainer is an exceptional machine, like all of Precor's
exercise equipment - but it comes at a price. At this price you should also look
at Life Fitness and Vision Fitness. You may also want to consider Sole
Fitness. They have machines for less money with better warranties.
It
should be noted for the price you get a limited amount of programs, and they charge
extra for the wireless heart rate strap.
My
opinion is the Precor adjustable ramp models are unrivaled, but if you want the
dual action shop around. There are comparable machines, although there is a good
chance you'll settle on the 5.19.
In
the Consumer Reports Precor EFX 5.19 review they ranked it as their top pick.
CR rated over the comparable Vision Fitness X6600 HRT. They gave the 5.19 an excellent
review for quality and exercise range.
The
suggested retail price is $2,799 on the EFX 5.19. They're sold primarily at fitness
equipment specialty stores. You probably won't be able to get much of a discount
on the retail price, but you may get the store to include free delivery and set-up.
Negotiate, the salespeople work on commission and usually have some leeway on
the price or delivery.
Customer
Review - Epinions.com 
Pros
Easy
on the joints, well made, can work upper body.
Cons
Few
programs, synchronized arms and legs.
The
Bottom Line
This is an average over priced elliptical that I wouldn't buy or
recommend. For the money I'm looking for a better one for you.
You
can learn more about the Precor Ellipticals at www.Precor.com.
You may also want to check out the new Smooth Fitness Agile. A very unique concept in cross training!