Strengths:
1) Six Star Certified For A More Ergonomically Correct Workout
The 13.0E elliptical is six star certified. This basically means that it's built to specific standards that make your elliptical workout more ergonomically correct and comfortable.
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.
And the Surestep easy access design gives you a low step-on height, which for many people feels more comfortable.
2) MaxTone ArchPedal
The 13.0 elliptical comes with something completely new.
The Arch pedal uses a design similar to the popular toning shoes. The pedal is curved which keeps lower body muscles constantly activated which helps tone glutes and leg muscles.
It also helps to improve posture, increase circulation and reduce stress on hip and knee joints.
3) 20 Levels of 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 13.0E model has the highest incline of any of the Livestrong models.
4) 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.
5) 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.
6) Interactive Workouts
You get a USB device included with your elliptical. With this you can download new training programs designed by Lance's personal strength coach. You can also track your workout stats online to see your progress and set goals.
Weaknesses:
The Livestrong 13.0E elliptical trainer offers some incredible features - but the Livestrong name is still fairly new to the market and isn't as well known as some other brands.
Summary: Highly Recommended
Livestrong has obviously made a thorough study of the market before turning out their 13.0E elliptical. They've produced an elliptical with all the must-have features that buyers look for (and a few added ones too).
The pedals will help you tone your lower body as you workout - something you won't find on any other elliptical currently. The 20" stride will help you more fully work your leg muscles and the ergonomic design will definitely give you a more comfortable ride.
You can see a fully video of how it works on the manufacturer's website here (scroll down to the bottom).
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Livestrong 13.0E elliptical direct from the Manufacturer. They're also offering Free Shipping which can also save you at least $150+.
The Livestrong 13.0 elliptical is one of the best new models this year with some completely new features that can help you tone up fast and get more out of your workout.
The specialized archpedal tones your quads and glues while you workout. You can download new workouts from Lance Armstrong's personal coach with the USB device included.
And the ultra-heavy 30 pound flywheel helps to give you a smoother feeling ride.
So is this the right buy for you? Here's a review of the Livestrong 13.0E Elliptical to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $1299 + Free Shipping
Stride Length: 20"
Resistance Levels: 20
Built In Workout Programs: 12
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
LiveTrack Workout Journal
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 5 years parts & electronics, 2 year in home labor
