Yowza Fitness Elliptical Trainer Review

I had the opportunity to go to the Yowza headquarters and check out their elliptical trainers.  Although this is a relatively new name in fitness equipment, the company and the people behind Yowza are seasoned players. They've been selling quality crosstrainers around the world, including the U.S.,  for a number of years.

The machines are manufactured in Taiwan, which is an important factor.  Practically all fitness equipment is now built overseas, primarily in China and Taiwan.  However, there tends to be a real difference between the quality control of the two locations.  I almost said countries, which could create an international crisis.

Note: You can purchase Yowza Elliptical Trainers direct at www.YowzaFitness.com. As of 3/11/10 all prices included free shipping.

Also, Yowza fowarded some discount coupons on the Captiva and the Largo ellipticals.

You'll find many of the low-budget elliptical trainers are made in China.  You can save money manufacturing in China, but at the cost of quality and durability. Taiwan is where the high-end elliptical trainers are built.

Currently there are four Yowza elliptical trainer models, which are all rear drive designed.  The Navarre and Largo offers the traditional elliptical stride with handlebars to "work" the upper body.  Both machines appear to be a good value in their price range. They are relatively stable and have a smooth and quiet elliptical drive.  In particular, I thought the Largo at $799 was one of the better budget elliptical trainers I've tested.

Cardio Core Training

One of the most interesting features found on the two upper end models (Yowza Sanibel and Yowza Captiva), is the Cardio Core Training.  They refer to it as a counter rotational core motion.  Unlike the usual upper body handlebars that go back and forth with the elliptical motion,  you have a single handlebar with dual grips that swings left and right with the pedal motion.  So as you workout, your body simulates a twisting motion that really impacts your stomach muscles.

Most elliptical trainer manufacturers claim their machines work both the upper and lower body.  In fact, some suggest you get a total body workout.  This is a fallacy.  The majority of the resistance is absorb by the lower body, while the upper body goes along for the ride.

With the Cardio Core design the motion is similar to doing stomach crunches on the ground.  You really feel it in your abs.  This is one one of the few "crosstrainers" available that actually cross-trains your upper and lower body.   And it is the only crosstrainer that specifically targets, strengthens and trims your stomach muscles.  A goal that many of us strive towards.

When I first used the Cardio Core feature  it felt a bit awkward, since I am use to the typical dual handlebar motion.  After awhile I "got into the swing" of the counter rotational motion.  If I owned one of these machines, which is a consideration, I probably would alternate between using the Cardio Core handlebars and using the stationary handlebars.  When you use the Cardio Core handlebars you get an intense cardio workout that I'm not sure you can maintain for extended periods unless you look like the model on their site.

The Yowza ellipticals with the Cardio Core Training could end up being a hot seller since you have the ability to tone your lower body and stomach muscles simultaneously. 

Variable Motion

Another feature worth mentioning is the Variable Motion found only on their Captiva.  You have 12 different motions that start at 18" and increase to 32". As you move up the levels of motion you go from a standard elliptical stride to a motion that forces you to raise your legs.  The motion looks like an inverted eggplant.  There are several benefits to the Variable Motion...

1. As you move up to higher levels you get a more intense cardio workout.
2. The variable motion breaks-up the repetitive motion you typically get on most ellipticals.  That constant repetition can be a strain on certain joints and muscles.
3. The variable motion also allows you to target different lower body muscles.

Other Features

Rear Drive Design — There is a controversy over which is a better design - front or rear.  The advantage to the rear drive design is that there are less moving parts.  One of the disadvantages of a front design is that the pedals run on wheels over railings.  The wheels can wear and the railings can rust resulting in obnoxious noises.  I lubricate my front drive elliptical regularly.

Sure Fit Pedals — Yowza Fitness has a unique design on the pedals, which is an important component on an elliptical trainer.  Ideally, you want an articulating foot pedal on your elliptical.  This is a pedal that angles with the elliptical motion and minimizes lifting your heal and straining your ankles.   However, even with ellipticals equipped with articulating foot pedals there is still some lifting and straining.  With the Sure Fit pedals it not only pivots with the motion, but it has a rubber shock absorption to minimize the impact. I noticed there was minimal lifting of my heal with the elliptical stride.

Built-in Fan — The fans are directed at your core where they can do the most good.

Speakers and  iPod Docking Station — A feature  that are becoming increasingly popular on elliptical trainers.  The sound is not great, but better than most speaker equipped elliptical trainers.

Sealed Bearings — The Yowza ellipticals have sealed bearing at the pivotal points.   There are no bushings that are more likely to wear out.

Sold Factory Direct — I know, countless manufacturers claim to sell factory direct, and they do.  The problem is they also sell through third parties, like large sporting goods chains or fitness specialty stores.  Consequently, they cannot undersell their retailers.  And the retailers have to set a price that covers the cost of the machine, their overhead and provides a profit. Yowza is a pure plat factory direct seller.  They only sell through the Internet and directly to the end user.

Our Review — Yowza Fitness Elliptical Trainers

When I went to see the new line-up of Yowza elliptical trainers, I was expecting to see your typical run of the mill machines.  What I saw was a series of elliptical trainers that were as good, and often better, than the competition.  More importantly, I saw some innovative features that could be a breakthrough in crosstraining.

Normally I would be concerned about the fact that this is a new company.  However, the manufacturer has a good track record for quality control.  They are known for building machines that are durable and low maintenance.

I don't think it is going to happen overnight, but Yowza fitness has the potential to be a serious player that delivers  quality elliptical trainers at a valued price.

Learn more at www.YowzaFitness.com!