ProForm CX 1055 Elliptical Trainer Review

What makes the ProForm CX 1055 elliptical trainer unique is the power incline feature. It is similar to the adjustable incline on a treadmill. By adjusting the incline on your elliptical trainer, you can workout different parts of your lower body. According to NordicTrack:

"Changing the incline of an elliptical changes the shape of the elliptical stride, which alters the muscle groups that your workout focuses on. With a wide range of incline settings, you can work every muscle in your legs and glutes.

There are other ellipticals that provide this feature, but they are commercial grade models for the home, and cost a minimum of $3,000. Meanwhile, the CX 1055 sells for around $1,000.

I've used the power incline, and in addition to exercising different muscle groups, it gives an intense cardio workout, allowing you to burn more calories in less time. You can adjust the incline up to 30%, which is equivalent to hiking up steep mountain.

I had some concerns about potential mechanical issues with the PowerRamp, considering this is a budget elliptical. I was told by ProForm that the CX 1055 overall has a good service record.

Additional ProForm CX 1055 Elliptical Trainer Features:

18" Stride - This stride length is ideal for average size individuals. It gives a smooth elliptical motion, rather than a bouncy feel. In addition, with the extra long foot pedals you can further adjust your stride to a comfort level.

Short Pedal Distance - You'll find the pedals are a short distance from each other. This is a feature particularly attractive to shorter individuals. I've had several complaints from people buying machines with wide pedal distance, causing the elliptical motion to be awkward and uncomfortable.

19 Workout Programs - Considering this is a budget elliptical, the selection of programs is generous. I find using different workout programs helps to alleviate the boredom of exercising. The ProForm CX 1055 elliptical also comes with MyDesign, which lets you create your own workouts. The trainer is equipped with a heart rate monitor. The feedback allows you to determine the level of your exertion and what training zone you are within - ex. warm up, weight loss, aerobic exercise, or endurance training.

LED Console - The console and display gives simultaneous read-outs on various feedback. Fro example, speed, time, distance, intensity level and calories burned. Not a bad console for the price. There is also a built-in fan that give a reasonable amount of relief.

Warranty - This is where the CX 1055 falls short, the warranty is 90-days parts and labor. The reason is ProForm wants to sell you an extended warranty. Upgrade to a 1-2 year additional coverage. The price is not that much ($99), and you don't want to hassle with costly service charges.

Our Review

The ProForm CX 1055 elliptical trainer is a good bargain when selling for $999. The PowerRamp adds a whole new dimension to your exercising. That is why Precor ellipticals are so popular in health clubs. For the price, you get a nice selection of features.

I would suggest you only consider this elliptical for moderate use. Remember, this is a budget machine. If you plan to exercise excessively, or there will be multiple users, you want to upgrade. Also, the suggested 300 lbs. weight limit is pushing it. I would set it at 250 lbs. or less.

Final note - I checked out the customer reviews on Sears.com, and out of six reviews, the discontinued NordicTrack CX 1055, which is the same model, was rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. Not bad for a budget elliptical trainer!

Other ProForm Elliptical Reviews

ProForm 18.0 RE with a Power Ramp