Your budget determines how much is available for purchasing an exercise machine like the elliptical. There are variations in the price of these machines depending on their quality and functionality. The general notion everyone has about buying cheap products is not a remarkable one. This may be due to the adage that says “nothing good comes cheap.” But it is absolutely false! I would rather go with “nothing good comes easy.”
In reality, quality stems from how much has been invested in terms of time and efficiency. There are lots of possessions we acquire at cut-throat prices that have no relevance in our lives afterward considering their cost. Another saying goes that “the best things in life are free.” This should awaken our senses regarding how much we should earmark for certain stuff we need direly.
The cash at hand may not even be encouraging to start with and we may be in absolute need to acquire an item. If you realize your budget is tight, do not be weary. You can still obtain the object of your dreams. All you need to do is outline the goals you are hoping to achieve from owning that stuff before setting out to buy it. You will be surprised to get value for your meager money that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Buying a cheap elliptical machine, say for below $1000 is not a misleading step to take. Learn more below about the quality features you should look out for in any good elliptical you find out there for sale that matches your budget.
Ø Durability
The lifespan of any machine is determined by how well it has been designed to withstand rugged handling by users. This quality does not depend on the equipment’s price tag. You can get an elliptical for as low as $300 that can fall under this category of durable machines. Although what seems to be the norm is that the heavier a machine is, the stronger it will be. But in reality, the manufacturer may build a machine to pass the strength test without necessarily making it heavy like it used to be centuries ago.
Ø Sound
A noisy machine, whether for exercise or gardening is not a good buy. Look out for a silent elliptical within an affordable range that will not disturb others while in use. A machine you can use at night without disrupting the sleep of other occupants at home is most preferable. Ask the seller to perform a test before buying to know the noise level of the machine. An elliptical with a good magnetic resistance is a great option as it is quite noiseless compared to others.
Built-in Functions
Depending on your pocket, there are several ellipticals with a programmed display you can choose from. Although, this feature seems to vary according to price with the more expensive ones having more functions than their cheap counterparts. It does not mean you will not get one below $500 that has a built-in audio-visual system. You will be able to track your progress like the number of calories burnt, your speed, and your heart rate. In addition to these functionalities, the costlier ones have more effects that make them operate more like computers. The stored data can be transferred to your smartphone and iPad. They also contain pre-programmed videos of workouts that you can practice along with while you watch.
Ø Adjustability
The safety of an exercise machine lies in its ability to re-arrange or be adjusted. In order not to cause you harm or injuries, it is advisable to select an elliptical that can be easily adjusted for comfort. The foot pedals should be adjustable to give room for optimum comfort while performing a session of workout. You may also be working on special muscle groups and need to adjust the incline to obtain your fitness goals. This precautionary measure is usually provided by every manufacturer on all exercise equipment. Therefore, the price does not determine how safe a machine ought to be.
Ø Stride Length
As important as this feature is, it is expected that price shouldn’t be a factor that will influence its presence on an elliptical. But realistically, cheaper ellipticals are made to suit shorter people in the 13”-15” range while the more expensive ones are usually within the 20” range and above mainly for tall users. Your stride length matches your height and the proportional length of your legs. It is an important requirement on any elliptical machine to avoid causing you strains and leg injuries. Your convenience is the paramount need to ensure the eventual achievement of your fitness goals.
Ø User Weight
Your bodyweight tells how much pressure you will exert on any equipment you stand upon. You may expect that your body size shouldn’t count in deciding how much a fitness machine should cost but in reality, it is totally different. Cheaper ellipticals are designed for people with a maximum body weight of 250 pounds. Bulkier users would have to opt for high priced machines that can withstand weights above 300 pounds.
Ø Warranty
The length of warranty period slated for budget-wise machines isn’t as much as those of the expensive ones. 2 years is usually the longest period allocated to cheap ellipticals with most of the warranty being for selected parts of the machine. On the other hand, costlier ellipticals exceed 5 years warranty with most of them having a lifetime warranty.
Take Away
You will accept that it isn’t rosy, eating your cake and still having it afterward. If you are tight on budget and don’t want to break the bank, there are few qualities you will have no choice but give up on while purchasing any product. Ellipticals are not different in such a situation therefore you must conduct adequate research before buying one. Your health must come first therefore don’t be intimidated by your budget when it comes to acquiring a piece of fitness equipment. Go all out and get that elliptical trainer you have been eyeing for a long time. Take that decision today and end your health issues once and for all.