Strengths:
1) 10 - 30 Degree Power Incline - Incline is not the same as resistance. It changes the slope of your elliptical path. This helps to crosstrain different sets of muscle groups and gives you a better, more comprehensive workout.
Plus, it's power-incline instead of manual incline. This means you just press a button on the console and the incline automatically adjusts. You don't have to get off the elliptical to change the incline manually.
2) iPod Dock With Speakers - You can plug in your iPod and listen to your favorite music through the console speakers as you workout. While many ellipticals are now including this feature, it's still a nice one to have as it can make your workouts more enjoyable.
3) iFit Card Reader - There's an iFit card reader built into the console of the Proform 890 elliptical. iFit cards hold 8 weeks of interactive workouts per card.
You just insert the iFit card into the console and the machine remembers where you left off and starts the next workout.
The elliptical will adjust the resistance and incline of your machine to meet the various workout goals like weight loss, performance, etc.
4) EKG Grip Pulse Sensors - Stay in your target heart rate range and monitor your heart rate with the sensors built into the stationary handlebars.
5) 24 Built In Workouts - In addition to the iFit card workouts you can add, you can also choose from 24 built-in workouts designed by a personal trainer to maximize calorie burning and weight loss. The elliptical automatically adjusts the resistance throughout your workout.
Weaknesses:
The Proform 890 is a decent starter elliptical - but it's not meant for heavy use and it's not a commercial grade machine by any means. If you plan on heavy use or have multiple household users, you may want to step up to a stronger commercial grade model like a Sole.
Summary:
The Proform 890 E Elliptical is one of the newer, more affordable models from Proform this year. The main strength is the power incline of up to 30 degrees - which can help you get a better crosstraining workout.
Other things that will help make your workout more enjoyable are the console fan, iPod dock with speakers, iFit card reader and easy-to-read backlit console. Overall it's a simple machine but for the current price, it's still a decent value.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Proform 890E Elliptical direct from the Manufacturer. They're current offering Free Shipping which can save you about $125.
One of the strongest features of the 890 is that you can get a better crosstraining workout with the incline feature. Incline changes the slope of your elliptical workout and uses different muscle groups.
You also get an iFit card reader so you can add more workouts to your elliptical, built in fan, iPod dock with speakers and 24 built in workouts.
Is the 890 Elliptical a good buy for you? Here's a review to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $999 ( + Free Shipping)
Stride Length: 18"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Built In Workout Programs: 24
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: EKG on stationary handlebars
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 325 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 1 Year Parts
and Labor
