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 There is no question that ProForm builds some of the best budget elliptical trainers in the industry. However, there is a price point where you are getting into risky territory regarding the quality and the durability of a crosstrainer. At $500 the ProForm 405 CE elliptical trainer begins to cross over that boundary. Just do the math. For $500 you not only get the machine, but free delivery. The delivery cost the company somewhere around $75. Of course, the company needs to make a profit, so how much is left for the components and manufacturing. Even if it is built in China. (I believe the components may come from China and it is constructed in Logan, UT.).
Also check out the ProForm 600 ZNE. It is a few hundred more, but is more stable and comes with an adjustable incline.
The ProForm 405 CE Elliptical Trainer Features...
18" Elliptical Stride — This is about an average stride length, although many ellipticals have 20" strides. For those that are taller than 5'10", you may find the stride length restricting. Although a major concern is the feel of the elliptical stride. At this price you compromise on the weight of the flywheel. Consequently, the motion feels less natural and tends to be choppy. If you have been on the ProForm 405 CE, compare the motion with a Sole elliptical at Dick's Sporting Goods. You'll find a considerable difference in the smoothness.
Stability — If ProForm compromises on the weight of the flywheel to reach that $500 price point, it makes sense that they have to compromise on other components and use lighter weight parts. This results in an overall light weight machine. Which means it is not as stable as higher price elliptical trainers. When I checked out the specs they had the user weight limit on the 405 CE at 300 lbs., which is absurd. What they don't tell you is the weight of the elliptical, and I will guess it is around 120 lbs. Once again, do the math, how stable is a 120 lbs. machine going to be with a 200 lbs. plus user?
Workout Programs — The ProForm 405 CE comes with 12 performance and 4 weight loss programs. So you have a nice variety of challenges that controls the resistance of the machine. The 405 CE is also equipped with iFit Card Technology. iFit is a series exercise programs designed by personal trainers. You purchase cards that you insert into the machine. The level of exertion is controlled, and there is audio coaching.
There are different categories of workouts that focus on different goals like weight loss or performance. Within the categories, you have different levels of progress. You start at the beginning and work your way up. Just as if you had a personal trainer. Each card covers an 8-week progressive course. Several are designed by Jillian Michaels and includes her coaching.
Other features include a speaker system with the ability to plug in your MP3 player. In addition, you can fold the 405 CE, which not only saves on space, but also makes it easier to move around. The warranty is 1 year parts and labor, at least on the ProForm site. Not bad coverage considering the price.
Our Review — The ProForm 405 CE Elliptical Trainer
My typical recommendation with any ProForm elliptical at this price range or below is that if $500 is all you can afford, than ProForm is one of the best choices you can make. Particularly if having to spend more means you won't be able to afford an exercise machine that allows you to get back into shape, and more importantly improve your health.
Furthermore, there are countless customers who have bought the ProForm 405 CE and are very pleased with their purchase. Just be aware, at this price range there are certain compromises the manufacturer has to make in quality and durability. If you can afford it, spend more and get a machine that is better engineered, more durable and definitely more stable.
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