ProForm Epic 1200 Pro Elliptical Trainer Review

The ProForm Epic EL 1200 elliptical trainer has one very unique feature that makes this model worth considering. It is the power incline ramp. From what I understand, ProForm leases this patented design from Precor. In fact, Precor has a solid lock on the design. There are a couple of other companies that offer a variation of the power incline, but they do not compare to the Precor version.

For those that are not familiar with Precor, they sell commercial grade treadmills and ellipticals for the home and commercial environments. Their power incline ellipticals start at $3,500 - that is in comparison to the ProForm Epic Pro 1200 that usually sells for around $1,000.

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Note: As of 8/19/08 the ProForm Epic 1200 Pro was selling for $999 with shipping. Go to ProForm.com for the latest price.

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The power incline on an elliptical is similar to the incline feature on a treadmill. By adjusting the incline, you can increase your cardio workout, burn more calories and tone different parts of your lower body. It allows you to burn more calories in less time. That is why Precor ellipticals are so popular in health clubs.

The power incline also adds more variety to your workout. Rather than changing the level of exertion by only the resistance, you can vary by both resistance and the incline.

Other features on the ProForm Epic 1200 include:

Quick Target Toning - ProForm is one of the more innovative companies in fitness equipment. The Quick Target Toning feature is a perfect example. You can identify certain areas you want to target - glutes, quads, hamstrings, upper body and more - just press the muscle group you want to focus on and the elliptical trainer will automatically control the resistance and incline to tone those muscles. It is features like this that make ProForm such a popular elliptical, in addition to the budget prices.

18" Stride - This is a comfortable stride length for individuals of average height. If you are over 5'11", you may want to consider an elliptical trainer with a 20".

14 Personal Trainer and 2 User Programs - The EL 1200 offers a good selection of training programs design to achieve fitness goals like weight loss and conditioning. You also get two user programs that allow you to create your own workout and save it for future use.

Gel Foot pedals - The pedals are made of soft rubber that helps to avoid the numbness that can come with extensive workouts. The gel like rubber further reduces impact and the chance of straining tendons in your feet and ankles.

Our Review - ProForm Epic 1200 Pro Elliptical Trainer

There are two reasons to consider the Epic 1200 - The Power Incline Ramp and the budget price. This is one of the better values at $999. However, you need to be aware this is a budget machine, and not commercial grade. I would only recommend this elliptical for moderate use. Furthermore, I would not purchase this elliptical if you are over 230 lbs. ProForm suggests the user weight limit is 350 lbs. That is pushing it.

I would also recommend you get the extended warranty - preferably 2 years or more.

Overall, the ProForm Epic 1200 is a good choice for someone that wants an elliptical that will offer a variety of challenges, but will not break the bank.

Learn more at www.ProForm.com