Precor EFX 5.23 Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer

The CrossRamp® technology is quite effective to adjust the height of the elliptical path that the foot travels. We found this feature to be quite useful for training. Known as the Variable Stride Geometry™, this helps to put more focus on a particular muscle group or on all the primary lower body muscle groups.

Biomechanics

We found that the machine ensures smooth and comfortable training with its low-impact EFX® motion. You will experience the lowest Rate of Perceived Exertion which is quite important while using a trainer. The patented motion keeps the heels in contact with the foot pedals, and as a result cuts down the stress on the tendon and muscle.

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Build Quality

We found the built of this machine to be solid and durable at moderate level as it can only accommodate 250 lbs where there are many other ellepticals available in the market that can take up to 350 lbs. The ramps are made out of welded steel covered with black powder coat finish. The Ramps can be adjusted into three different positions: 15°, 20° and 25°. The trainer itself weights 183 lbs. The foot pedals are spacious (7” W X 15” L) enough to make the training experience more comfortable.

Assembly

It took us about an hour and a half to assemble the complete machine. We had all the basic tools that were required to get it together. However, the machine doesn’t have any transport wheels which is a major problem. Since it is not that mobile, we had to assemble it at the place where it was suppose to stay.

Heart Rate Monitor

Heart rate can be monitored in two ways. Telemetry reading through the chest straps is for people who prefer hand free. You can also use the handheld sensors that are located on the handlebars.

Display

There is a 4” X 3” LCD display available with this machine where we can see all sorts of information including Calories, Heart rate, Distance covered, Program profile, Resistance level, Strides per minute, SmartRate® and duration. The display itself is not all that extraordinary but it does show all the information that we needed to have while working out.

Programs

Precor EFX 5.23 has eight preset workout programs that allow reaching workout objectives within a reasonable period of time. The system includes weight loss, heart rate and interval programs. Regardless of whether your training goal is to lose weight or enhance cardiovascular fitness, it can be achieved with this trainer. Some other programs include Cross Trainer, Hill Climb, Fat Burner, Manual and Gluteals. You can also take advantage of 16 different resistance levels which allows me to intensify the workouts.

Major Downsides

Like it was mentioned in the “Assembly” section, the machine doesn’t include transport wheels. We found it to be quite uncomfortable since it is really not that easy to move a machine from one place to another while you don’t have any transport wheel for support.

The trainer also doesn’t include any recreational features like audio ports or speakers. Although the entertainment features are not all that essential for a workout machine but it doesn’t hurt to have some options to get rid of the boredom by listening to some music.

And the price is a bit too high. If you are planning to go for the Precor EFX 5.23, be sure, your wallet is going to be squeezed really hard.

Warranty

There is a Lifetime warranty for the frame and welds, 5-year warranty for the mechanical and electrical parts and 1-year labor warranty. They also offer 5-year warranty for the wear items.

Altogether, Precor EFX 5.23 is a pretty decent training machine. It has all varieties in terms of workout approaches and you can easily shift from one program to another. The system will keep you well informed about your status while exercising so that you can keep evaluating your performance and adjust your workout plan.

Precor EFX 5.23 Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer (Latest Generation)