Vision Fitness Elliptical Trainer Review

Recently checked out several of the most popular Vision Fitness elliptical trainers at a local fitness equipment store. It was hard to be objective since the same store also carried Life Fitness, which is a major step-up from Vision.

Vision Fitness has six residential models. They breakdown as follows:

X1400 & X1500 - We found these ellipticals to be minimally acceptable. The stride seemed a bit short. The LCD consoles were very basic. The elliptical motion was relatively smooth and quiet, but a bit bouncy (All Vision ellipticals are front drive). The X1400 has an indexed knob for controlling the resistance level. You generally don't expect to find that design compromise on an elliptical that goes for $1,000. We suggest you pass on these two models.

X6100, X6200 & X6200 HRT - These three models appear to be all built on the same chassis. They are a vast improvement over the X1400 and X 1500, although the X6100 has the same cheap LCD console. The X6200 and X62000HRT have an upgraded LED console with more workout programs.

The elliptical motion is smoother and not as bouncy. All three come with a nice 20" stride (actually 19¾"). Each weighs a solid 199 lbs. The two X6200 models are worth considering. They have a reasonable warranty, with lifetime brake, 3 years parts and 1 year labor. The HRT version comes with wireless heart rate control, custom programs and variable footpads.

X6600HRT - This is their commercial version, which is also available for residential use. It weighs a hefty 287 lbs. Don't plan on moving this elliptical around. For home use you get a 5 year parts and 2 year labor warranty, that is impressive coverage and says something about the quality and durability. The X6600HRT has four heart rate Training programs and a separate heart rate feedback window. It also comes with articulating footpads.

Prices for Vision Fitness Elliptical (May 26, 2006):

X1400 - $999 USD
X1500 - $1,299 USD
X6100 - $1,499 USD
X6200 - $1,799 USD
X6200HRT - $1,999 USD
X6600HRT - $2,699 USD

Fitness Source Review

I am not all that impressed with the X1400 and X1500 models. I liked the feel of the X6200 models. The issue is the competition. Within $1,500 - $2,000 price range there are a number of good brands to consider, including Smooth, Sole and LifeCore. Shop and compare. In particular compare the warranties, delivery options, consoles and programming. Regarding the X6600HRT, we would probably choose Life Fitness or Precor over this model.

Talking to sales reps and general managers at different fitness equipment specialty stores, I got mixed reviews. At one store the sales rep said that in general Vision Fitness ellipticals were low maintenance.

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.

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."

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 X6100 review and the Vision Fitness S7200HRT Suspension Trainer.