Strengths:
1) Six Star Certified
This 10.0E elliptical is six star certified. This basically means that it's built to specific standards that are more ergonomically correct and make your elliptical workout more comfortable. This certification includes
ZEROgap™ Ideal Pedal Placement
IDEALfit™ Optimal Handlebar Spacing
StraightUP™ Body Posture Design
SMOOTHPulley™ System for Efficient Motion
FLATellipse™ Natural Foot Path
SUREstep™ Easy Access Design
For example, closer foot pedals feel more natural to your body and can reduce the strain on your hips. A more upright design also feels more natural and comfortable as you're not leaning on the handrails as much as with cheaper ellipticals.
The Surestep easy access design gives you a low step-on height, which for many people feels more comfortable.
2) Power Incline
Incline (not the same as resistance) changes the slope of the elliptical motion, working different sets of muscle groups.
This gives you a more effective workout and helps to avoid overtraining. Incline is a feature that is usually only found on $3000 commercial models. The 10.0E model comes with power incline which means you can change it by pressing a button on the console. You don't have to get off the machine - which can often be a pain.
3) Livestrong Fitness Tracking Journal
This is a very cool tool that lets you track your fitness progress over time. You can also compare your current workout to your last, or to your average or lifetime workout totals.
4) 20" Stride Length
While cheaper ellipticals often come with a 14 - 16" stride, Livestrong machines use a fuller 20" stride. A longer stride helps you to more fully work your leg muscles and gives you a more optimal workout.
5) Interactive Workouts
You can download new Lance-endorsed training programs and track your workouts online using the included USB device. This is a great tool if you get inspired by seeing how far you've come and tracking your progress over time.
Weaknesses:
The Livestrong 10.0E elliptical trainer does not have some of the extra features that the higher end 13.0E model offers - like the Archpedal that tones your glutes or the heavier 30 lb flywheel.
Summary: Recommended
The Livestrong 10.0E elliptical offers some impressive features in a machine under $1000 including an extra long 20" stride and power incline. The six-star certified ergonomic design will definitely give you a more comfortable ride.
And the fitness tracking journal will help you see how far you've come (plus you can download extra workouts from Lance Armstrong's trainer).
You can see a fully video of how this elliptical works on the manufacturer's website here (scroll down to the bottom).
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Livestrong 10.0E elliptical direct from the Manufacturer. They're also offering Free Shipping which can also save you at least $150+.
The Livestrong 10.0 elliptical is a new elliptical from Livestrong with a focus on giving you a more comfortable elliptical workout.
Built with closer-spaced foot-pedals, a lower step-on height and optimal handlebar spacing, it's built to be more ergonomically correct and feel more natural.
You also get some great features like a 20" stride, power incline and online workout tracking - all for under $1000.
Livestrong equipment is endorsed by super-athlete Lance Armstrong and part of the proceeds from the sale of these ellipticals go to the Livestrong Foundation, which helps to fight cancer.
Livestrong is manufactured by Johnson - one of the largest fitness equipment companies in the world. They also own high end brands like Matrix and Vision.
Is this the right buy for you? Here's a review of the Livestrong 10.0E Elliptical to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $999 + Free Shipping
Stride Length: 20"
Resistance Levels: 20
Built In Workout Programs: 11
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
LiveTrack Fitness Journal
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 3 years parts & electronics, 1 year in home labor