When it comes to elliptical trainers there is no one player who dominates the entire price range of models. There are different manufacturers who excel at various prices. For example, Icon Fitness rules the sub $1,000 cost range via their numerous subsidiaries, such as ProForm, Image, Weslo, Reebok and Nordic Track. The high-end is dominated by businesses like Life Fitness and Precor. In the mid-range category you have a quantity of contenders, but one company that is worth noting is Smooth Fitness. They are building high quality elliptical trainers at a price that makes them a great value. Selling Direct to the Consumer For those unfamiliar with Smooth Fitness, they predominantly sell on the Internet. In reality, you can't discover their elliptical trainers at any stores. Their value proposition is to sell direct, thus cutting out the expenditure of the middleman. Believe about the expenses that are incurred when a company sells fitness equipment in a retail shop. Besides the price of the space, you also have to factor in the commissions paid to the salespeople. Selling on-line not only saves on retail costs, but also avoids the addition charge of local taxes. That can add up. It should be noted that Smooth Fitness makes some outrageous claims regarding the reduction in cost. That is typical advertising hype. And although you might not be saving over 40% on an elliptical trainer, you could be saving 5%-15% in comparison to buying through a retail shop. Smooth Fitness was 1 of the initial companies to sell high-end fitness equipment online. Initially they private labeled other brands like Spirit, Keys and Kettler. Approximately 5 years ago they began designing and manufacturing their own fitness equipment. In ten years they went from minor player to their recent inclusion in the Internet Retailer's Leading 500 Guide, 2006-07 Edition elliptical trainer benefits. SmoothFitness. com came in at number 277 on the overall list, and was ranked the 15th largest e-tailer in the Sporting Goods category. Smooth Elliptical Trainers Offer Value The line-up of Smooth elliptical trainers is a ideal example why they have become a major player in the fitness equipment business in such a brief period of time. Their machines are engineered to be durable and but offer a rewarding workout. nordic track elliptical machines For example, the Smooth CE 3. two provides one of the better values in the $1,500+ cost range. It is designed with a rear drive, which numerous find preferable, and claim it offers a smoother motion. The machine itself weighs a hefty 175 lbs, adding to the stability. You get ergonomic pivoting foot pedals, that further reduce strain and impact. It comes standard with wireless heart rate control, for those who like to control and optimize their workout via their heart rate. You get a lifetime warranty on the frame and electromagnetic brake system, in addition to a two year parts and 1 year labor warranty. 1 feature I especially like is the built-in heart rate sensors in the upper handlebars. You will discover that most elliptical trainers have heart rate monitors, but they are built into stationary handlebars. In order to get your heart rate you have to discontinue the upper body workout and hold onto the stationary handles, which defeats the purpose of the dual action workout. Smooth Fitness presently has three elliptical trainers that are priced from $1,300-$2,000, they are the Smooth CE 2. 1, three. two and 7. 4. All their prices include shipping. Like other fitness equipment businesses, the regular delivery is to your curbside. elliptical machine benefits treadmill You might want to pay the extra few dollars to have their turnkey service, which consists of inside delivery and set-up. There is no question that there are much better built elliptical trainers on the market. For example, Precor makes commercial grade elliptical trainers for the house. But they come with a commercial grade price, which is more than twice the cost of the Smooth Ellipticals. Of course, there are less expensive machines, but they are built with inexpensive components, which is reflected in a extremely limited warranty. The coverage is often 90 days parts and labor. Combining quality and a moderate cost, the Smooth elliptical trainers are 1 of the much better values in the $1,000 - $two,000 cost range.