ProForm 1200E Elliptical Trainer Review

The ProForm 1200E elliptical trainer is an almost exact copy of the NordicTrack Elite 1300.  Both NordicTrack and ProForm are built by Icon Fitness.  In fact, many of the exercise machines are very similar in design and utilize the same components.

I always liked the NordicTrack Elite 1300, but for some reason it never seemed to catch on.  And yet from my experience testing their various ellipticals, I felt that the 1300 was the best elliptical trainer they built. 

Note: The ProForm 1200E elliptical trainer typically sells for $999 with free shipping. They are closing out this model and are selling this machine at a killer price. Go to www.ProFormEllipticals.com for the latest deal.*

One of the reasons it probably wasn't a big seller was the fact it didn't have all the bells and whistle found on their other crosstrainers, but from an engineering perspective it was superior.  They relegated the Elite 1300 to the commercial models page, which does not get much traffic.  They also charged extra for delivery, which was the kiss of death, since all their other models come with free shipping.

So now the NordicTrack Elite 1300 has a twin in the form of the ProForm 1200E, however there is a difference between the two models. You get a 1 year extension on the warranty. ProForm and NordicTrack usually charge $110 for the extra coverage.

Smooth Elliptical Stride...

The ProForm 1200E has a very smooth 20" elliptical stride. Most NordicTrack and ProForm ellipticals have 18" strides, which is adequate for an average height user. However,  I would fit into that category and prefer a longer 20" like you get on the ProForm 1200E.  In addition, the elliptical motion feels more elongated and overall smoother on the 1200E in comparison to other Icon models.   I suspect it has a heavier flywheel.

Solid Feel...

ProForm does not list the unit weights on their ellipticals and treadmills.  Probably because they do not weigh all that much, and consequently some are not all that stable.  On the other hand the ProForm 1200E feels like a very solid and stable machine, which I suspect is because it weighs considerable more than the other models.

The user weight limit is rated at 350 lbs. That is excessive, and even high for a commercial elliptical. I would put it at around 270 lbs. Most of their other ellipticals I would max out at around 225 lbs.

Our Review - ProForm 1200E Elliptical Trainer

First, we need to clarify the promotion on the ProForm site that suggest this is a commercial elliptical trainer. Granted, it is a much better engineered machine that their other ellipticals, but it does qualify as commercial grade.  Ellipticals in that category cost thousands of dollars.  However, the 1200E is a much better trainer than the other ProForm models.

If you want speakers, built-in fan, adjustable incline and motivational technology like iFit Live, then you want to consider their other models.  If you want the best elliptical built by ProForm, then you want the 1200E.

Go to www.ProFormEllipticals.com to learn more!