The user profile for the ProForm ZE5 elliptical trainer is someone with a limited budget and with moderate exercise needs.  Also, that person should not be extremely overweight. (Under 230 lbs.) This doesn't mean that the ProForm ZE5 isn't a good value.  In fact, for $599 it may be one of the best values at that price range.  However, $599, which includes shipping, is not a lot for an elliptical trainer. This is not a heavy-duty machine, and is a far cry from the commercial models you may have used in a health club.

Note: The ProForm ZE5 elliptical trainer is no longer available. Go to the ProForm Elliptical Trainer Reviews for the latest models.*

ProForm ZE5 Elliptical Trainer Features...

Adjustable Stride Length — You are able to adjust the stride to 13", 15", and 18".  Why would you want to adjust the stride?  At different stride lengths you can target different lower body muscles. Although, the maximum 18" stride may be short for taller individuals.  You will find that most treadmills over $1,000 have a 20" stride.

Folding Design — There are two advantages to being able to fold the ZE5.  First, you conserve space. Second, when folded it is much easier to move about. 

13 lb. Flywheel — By no means the heaviest flywheel found on an elliptical.  You will find when you're on an elliptical with a 20+ lb. flywheel it has a more natural feel.  At 13 lbs. the stride will be a bit more choppy. 

iFit Workout Card Compatible — For an extra cost you can purchase iFit cards, which offer a series of progressive workouts.  You insert them into a slot on the elliptical and they control the resistance of the machine. These programs are designed to assist you in achieving your fitness goals and include audio coaching. There are a series of exercise routines by Jillian Michaels.

16 Installed Exercise Programs — You also get a decent selection of workouts that target goals like weight loss.  I personally switch exercise workouts regularly to break the monotony. They do not include audio coaching.

Speakers and MP3 Input — Even at this price, ProForm offers some of the better speaker systems found on cardio equipment.  You can also plug in your MP3/iPod player and have the sound direct right at you.  Music is an excellent motivator.

Console Fan — A favorite feature with customers.  You won't have gale force winds, but the breeze targets your core, which is the most important part of your body to cool down.

Warranty— There are some manufacturers at this price range that only offer 90-day parts and labor warranty.  On the ProForm ZE5 elliptical trainer you get 1-year parts and labor.  Although, you may want to consider extending it to protect your investment.

Our Review - ProForm ZE5 Elliptical Trainer

It's my job to assist people in finding the right machine for their fitness goals.  Of course, it needs to be in their price range.  ProForm is part of the largest fitness equipment company in the world, and that is why I can comfortably say this is one of the best $600 elliptical trainers on the market. 

However, at that price there are certain limitations to the quality of the machine.  In general, it is not going to be as stable, comfortable or durable as higher priced elliptical trainers. 

Although if your commitment is questionable, and there's the chance it your ProForm ZE5 will end up being an oversized clothes hangar, then spending only $600 makes sense.  On the other hand, if you are fairly certain that you will use your crosstrainer regularly and at progressively more strenuous levels, you may want to shop around.  

Go to www.ProFormEllipticals.com to learn more!