With Dynamic Motion Control

There is not much new in the fitness equipment industry, except with elliptical trainers. Several companies are pushing the concept of a low-impact, dual workout machine to new extremes. A perfect example is the Smooth Agile DMT. Rather than just offering your basic elliptical motion, it offers a range of motions or alternative paths. In the process, it provides a more complete workout than you will find on your typical elliptical trainer.

In a nutshell, the Smooth Agile allows you to exercise more efficiently and target more muscles.

Note: The Smooth Agile DMT typically sells for $2,499 with free delivery. Also, Smooth runs daily promotions, which vary from discounts and freebies. Go to www.SmoothFitness.com for the latest deal.*

Dynamic Motion Trainer (DMT)

Jim Mugford, head of Smooth customer service, was helpful in describing dynamic motion of the Smooth Agile and the benefits it provides.

The Agile expands beyond the limited path of an elliptical trainer by "guiding your body through twelve distinct motions. In so doing, muscles from every region of the body are recruited to form a stronger, leaner and more agile you." These twelve motions evolve from a typical elliptical stride, to a motion that is more like the shape of an eggplant.

The problem many people encounter when they workout on an elliptical trainer is they are not getting a very strenuous workout. And although the impact is substantially reduced in comparison to a treadmill, there are still issues with straining your knees and ankles. Those repetitive one-dimensional movements strain your joints, in addition to the fact it leads to boredom.

Furthermore, although you are supposedly working out both your upper and lower body, usually you are exercising limited muscles in your lower body, and applying little resistance to the upper body. The reality is the benefits of ellipticals are over exaggerated.

According to the Smooth web site, this is what you can expect with the Agile.

• In forward motion, you are getting the same benefits that you would from doing squats, lunges and abdominal crunches. Your quadriceps, glutes and core muscles are getting a solid toning workout.
• In reverse motion, you are exercising your calves and hamstrings.
• In both directions, you are also toning your arms and shoulders because the Agile doesn't just take them along for the ride as elliptical trainers do, it adds resistance to your arms, shoulders, chest and back.

Is it true? Well, I put the machine through the twelve motions and not only did the intensity of the exercise increase, but I noticed how I started using different lower body muscles. I could see how you would tighten up those muscles that are seldom served on an elliptical or treadmill. I also found that I naturally put more effort into the upper body workout.

Other Features of the Smooth Agile DMT

Less Stress and Strain on Your Joints The Agile gives you a more intensive workout without increasing the impact. The agile motion decreases the repetitive strain found on most elliptical. It further reduces stress on knees, especially with adjustable stride machines. According to Jim, "The Agile has the least amount of impact as far as a cross trainer, but technically the Agile is more than an elliptical trainer." You'll find that your toes are always in front of your knees reducing shear force. Also your body tends to be more upright in comparison to a front drive elliptical.

Articulating Foot Pedals — The Smooth Agile is designed with articulating pivoting foot pedals, which further increase the focus on different muscle groups. In addition, these pedals move with the motion and decrease stress to your ankles and reduce numbness in your feet.

Handlebar Controls — You get thumb controls in both moveable handlebars for resistance and the changing Agile motion. You don't need to break you stride to make adjustments.

Handlebar Pulse Readout — Once again, you don't have to break your stride to get your heart rate readout, in comparison to holding stationary pulse grips.

Heart Rate Control and Wireless Strap — This allows you to define the exertion of your workout with the rate of your heart beat. A technique that is often used by professional athletes.

Adjustable Fan — Aimed at your core for efficient relief.

Speakers and iPod Input — The speakers sound better than many I heard on fitness equipment.

390 Lbs. Unit Weight — This is not a toy. At 390 lbs., the Smooth Agile weighs more than just about any commercial grade elliptical. Obviously, it is very stable. In fact, I tried to get it to wobble, but it was rock solid.

Warranty — Evidence of the durability of the Smooth Agile DMT is the lifetime braking system, 7-year parts and 2-year labor warranty.

Our Review - Smooth Agile

This is a quality built, innovative exercise machine that delivers results. It takes your typical elliptical workout and moves it up several notches - getting more results in less time. However, the problem with the Agile is it is not cheap, although if time is money and you want to optimize your workout, this machine makes sense.

If I had an extra $3,500, and currently I do not because my wife wants a new kitchen, I would consider purchasing this for the home. In fact, I would seriously consider buying this machine over a Precor elliptical trainer with an adjustable incline.

One last note, I asked Jim Mugford about service issues, and he remarked he was amazed by the "minimal service concerns," considering it was a new model with a unique design.

Also check out the scaled down version of the Smooth Agile - Smooth Agile DMT X2.