Vision Fitness Elliptical Trainer Review

I recently checked out several of the most popular Vision Fitness elliptical trainers at a local fitness equipment store. Vision Fitness ellipticals are built by the same company that manufactures Horizon Fitness and the recently released LiveStrong Fitnes machines. Vision tends to be more compatible with the LiveStrong models, while Horizon Fitness focuses more on budget machines.

Vision Fitness Models

Vision X1500 — This is their budget model. Although it still has a decent 20 lbs. flywheel and weighs a hefty 172 lbs. You get an 18" stride, which is sufficient for individuals up to around 5"10". It lacks articulating foot pedals that angle with the elliptical motion.

You have your choice between three different consoles, starting with a basic nonbacklit LCD to a multi window backlit LCD. The premium console also offers more installed workout programs and wireless heart control. The warranty is 2-years parts and 1-year labor.

Vision X6000 & X6200 — These two models are built on the same chassis. The offer a 20" elliptical stride, and come with a 23 lbs flywheel that contributes to a smooth elliptical motion. Like the Vision X1500 you get your choice of three different consoles.

With the upgraded Vision X6200 you also get a folding feature, handlebars with multi position handgrips and articulating foot pedals.

Vision Fitness S7200 Suspension Elliptical — This is their commercial version, which is also available for residential use. It weighs a hefty 295 lbs. Don't plan on moving this elliptical around. It is designed with a variable stride motion that allows you to change the emphasis on the muscles being targeted during your workout. An impressive machine, which is reflected in the price tag.

Prices for Vision Fitness Elliptical (Feb. 26, 2010):

X1500 - $999 - $1,399 (Depending on choice of console.)
X6000 - $1,199 - $1,599 (Depending on choice of console.)
X6200 - $1,599 - $1,999 (Depending on choice of console.)
S7200 - $3,799

Fitness Source Review

Talking to sales reps and general managers at different fitness equipment specialty stores, I got mixed reviews on the Vision ellipticals. At one store the sales rep said that in general Vision ellipticals were low maintenance, durable machines. In another store the general manager felt that the Vision Fitness elliptical trainers were not all that great, and that their treadmills and stationary bikes were better built. He had reservations recommending certain elliptical models for individuals over 230 lbs.

I do like the fact you have your choice of consoles. Why pay for extra frills if you don't need them.

With all their models, as with any elliptical, you have to compare the specs with the competition and take into consideration the company reputation. Overall, Vision Fitness has a good reputation. With the basic console most of their models compare well with other brands. However, when you price a particular model with the premium console the value may not match up as well. There is a $400 different from the basic to the premium console.

Other ellipticals in this price worth considering are Smooth, Yowza, Sole and LiveStrong.

Vision Fitness Elliptical Trainer Reviews and Comments:

Health magazine

"This elliptical trainer is made of heavy-gauge steel and folds to less than 4 feet long, making it a nice fit for nearly any room. 'In the past, folding machines meant poor quality,' Allen says. 'Times have definitely changed. This is a solid, smooth, quiet unit.' The simple-to-decipher console offers five program options, in addition to displaying workout time, distance, calories burned, and three other types of workout feedback. The X6100 also has hand grips that detect your heart rate on contact and a reading rack in case you need a distraction."

Popular Consumer Magazine

They gave the Vision X6200 average ratings, and rated several competitor models above it that cost considerably less.

LA Times

"Vision X6200HRT: Low-cost, space-saver design that has most of the features you'll need. Folds for storage to about 3 feet in length. Arm and leg motion. Smooth, solid and quiet, especially for a fold-up machine. Wide handles don't crowd hands when they are in the non-moving center position. Low price. Same solid feel in lower-end X6100 model..."

Smart Money Magazine,

"...the Vision Fitness X6200HRT...legs fold up vertically to save space--the motion was surprisingly smooth and quiet...offered compelling workout features... Great for small spaces..."
Best Buy Award Winner!

Consumers Digest

"Features on this low-priced (X6200HRT) elliptical trainer include programmable tension control, heart-rate-control programs and a well equipped console with 11 LEDs."

Customer Review

S7200 HRT Suspension Elliptical - This is the best elliptical I have ever used, and that includes the two vision ellipticals I owned in the past and those Life Fitness and Precor's I have used at health clubs.  It is smooth, quiet and a pleasure to use.  The most expensive elliptical I have ever bought also, but worth the money for a long time investment in one's own health.

Also see the Vision Fitness X6000 review and the Vision Fitness S7200HRT Suspension Trainer.