Strengths:
Dual Side Flywheel Design Gives A More Comfortable Workout
You may have noticed this design in many of the high end commercial elliptical trainers. It's a trend that is slowly creeping into the residential elliptical market.
The main advantage to this design is that it places your body a little more upright on the machine. You don't have to lean as much to reach the handlebars - which can give you a more effective workout.
Plus the foot pedals are placed slightly closer together so it may feel more comfortable and natural than front or back flywheel models.
3 Position Adjustable Stride - Choose From 18, 20 and 22"
Adjusting the stride length of your elliptical allows you to work different muscles, which can help you see results faster. Strides can be adjusted between 18", 20" or 22".
The 22" is the one of the longest strides you can find on an elliptical trainer and is great for taller users to get an optimal workout. Plus having the different stride lengths to choose from makes this a great elliptical for families or multiple users as everyone can choose the stride that suits them best.
iFit Live
iFit Live is the newest technology that Nordic Track is putting on a few of their 2010 models.
If you have wireless Internet in your home you can connect your elliptical to the Internet. It's powered by Googlemaps and Google terrain so that you can see different trails all over the world as you workout.
You can customize and download your own workout programs and workout with Jillian Michaels from 'The Biggest Loser' - where she coaches you through your workout.
You can also compete against your Facebook friends, track your activity and nutrition online and even download workout videos.
Compact To Save Space
Because of the two side flywheel design the Nordic Track ACT is more compact than the standard single flywheel ellipticals.
Measuring only 47" long (standard design ellipticals can be up to 78" long), it's great if you want a higher end elliptical that doesn't take up much space.
Weaknesses:
If you don't have wireless internet in your home, you won't get as much use out of the iFit Live option. However there are still 20 built-in workouts already so this may not matter to you.
Summary: Highly Recommended
The Nordic Track ACT elliptical carries a lot of features that you won't find on other machines. The main one is the dual side flywheel design for added comfort during your workout. Plus you get 3 different stride lengths to optimize your workout and train different muscle groups.
The icing on the cake is all the fun stuff that can make your workouts even more enjoyable: iFit LIVE, iPod dock with console speakers and 20 built-in personal trainer workouts.
With the addition of a heavier flywheel and higher user weight capacity, the new ACT has more substance to it than older models. If you're looking for a center drive elliptical with lots of bells and whistles, you'll appreciate this machine.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can get the Nordic Track ACT PRO direct from the Manufacturer. You can also currently get Free Shipping which will save you about $150.
The ACT elliptical trainer offers a completely new elliptical design.
The 2 side flywheel design (also called center drive) has 2 smaller flywheels on either side of the elliptical foot pedals instead of one large flywheel in front or in back.
The advantage to this is that you get a more upright elliptical workout position - which for many people feels much more comfortable.
The new PRO version adds iFit LIVE, a larger flywheel for smoother ride and a large, clear backlit display
Is the ACT elliptical right for you? Here's a quick review of what you need to know:
Features:
Price: $1299 (+ Free Shipping)
Stride Length: 18", 20" & 22"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 20
Built In Workout Programs: 20
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 2 year parts, 1 year labor
