Ironman produces a range of elliptical trainers from economy to midpriced, starting around $599 and up. Ironman has recently come out with several new models that may be worth a look.
The Ironman Achiever elliptical for example, offers a long 21" stride and center drive technology (where there are 2 smaller flywheels on either side of you instead of one large flywheel out in front).
Strengths:
Center Drive Technology - This is feature found only on some newer Ironman models like the Ironman Achiever and the CDT Elliptical.
Instead of a large flywheel out in front or behind you, there are 2 smaller flywheels on either side of you. According to Ironman, this helps to ensure a more upright workout posture - which reduces the stress on your back and shoulders. It also gives you a smaller footprint if you want to save space.
Longer Stride Lengths - While older economy Ironman models had really short stride lengths (14 - 16"), some new models have actually come out with 21" stride lengths.
A longer stride length more accurately mimics your body's natural motion and can result in a more efficient workout. While 21" may be a bit too long for shorter users (under 5'4"), most users love the feel of a larger stride.
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Special Note: As of April 14, 2008, Keys Fitness Products L.P., along with affiliates, filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas.
While this doesn't affect their current ellipticals, it may pose some problems with servicing in the future.
We would not recommend Keys Fitness products at this time - recommended alternatives would be Nordic track and Sole
Weaknesses:
Obviously the main weakness here is the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by Keys Fitness. While this doesn't affect the quality of the ellipticals already on the market, it may pose some serious problems with servicing.
We would not recommend any of the Keys products - including Ironman ellipticals at this time because of this. If you're looking for center drive ellipticals, check out the Nordic Track ACT or the Lifecore brand
Summary: Not Recommended
The new Ironman models are impressive - giving you smaller footprints, long 21" strides and the center drive technology.
However, due to the problems with the parent company, Keys Fitness, we would not recommend these ellipticals right now.
