Strengths:
1) Cardio-Core Arms
These arms help take inches off your waist and tone your abs. They are different than a standard elliptical trainer in that they don't go back and forth but side to side (like a large steering wheel.) This motion then works your ab muscles and whittles the waist.
You can watch a video of how the Captiva arms work here.
2) Variable Motion Trainer
The Captiva is actually a step up from the typical elliptical - it is a variable motion trainer. You can use it like a standard elliptical crosstrainer - but you can also choose to vary the elliptical motion to give you different elliptical pathways.
So you're completely working all your lower body muscles. In fact, with 15 different motion settings you can go from a standard 18" stride up to a 32" hurdling type motion.
3) Pivoting Pedals
These follow the natural motion of your foot to give you a more comfortable workout. They can also help reduce joint stress and toe numbness that sometimes comes with fixed foot pedals on cheaper ellipticals.
The pedals are also spaced closer together which again feels more natural and reduces the strain at your hips.
4) 9 User Profiles
This is a great option if you have multiple users for the elliptical. You can store the information for up to 9 different users in the elliptical. So you can just call up the information when you start your workout instead of having to re-enter it all in over and over again.
5) Backlit Console
The console window is large, backlit and easy to read. There's also an iPod dock with speakers included with a shelf to store the iPod. So you can listen to your favorite tunes while working out.
6) Extra Long Warranty with 2 Years on Service
The warranty covers the frame and brake for a lifetime, electronics and parts for 5 years and 2 years on labor.
Of special note is the 2 years on service. Since most ellipticals only give you 90 days to 1 year coverage on service, this is a great feature that can save you a lot of money should you have to service your elliptical in the future.
7) Wireless Heart Rate Monitor
The Captiva elliptical comes with a polar wireless heart rate monitor (along with EKG sensors) so you can stay in your target heart rate zone. Many people prefer wireless heart rate monitoring since it tends to be more accurate than pulse sensors.
Weaknesses:
The Captiva is the top model from Yowza Fitness. Yowza ellipticals are not as well known as other brands, which is a shame since the Captiva is one of the better values out there - especially for a variable motion trainer.
Summary: Highly Recommended
If you want a variable motion elliptical crosstrainer that can also trim you waist, you'll definitely want to consider the Captiva elliptical.
It has the special cardio core arms that work your abs. You also get 15 different elliptical motions and a variety of different strides to push your crosstraining to the next level.
Overall, an incredibly strong variable motion crosstrainer for a surprisingly low price.
Where To Buy:
The Captiva elliptical is sold directly through the Manufacturer. You can watch a video on how it works. And they are currently offering you Free Shipping which will save you about $150.
If you're looking trim your waist and tone your abs while crosstraining, you might want to consider the Captiva Elliptical Trainer.
It uses special Cardio Core upper body arms that are different from the standard back and forth motion you normally get with elliptical arms.
The arms move in a side-to-side motion (like driving a big steering wheel). This motion works your abs and helps to trim your waist while working out.
And to challenge your lower body and burn maximum calories, you can choose from 15 different elliptical motion settings. You can go from a standard 18" elliptical stride up to a 32" hurdling type motion.
Is the Captiva Crosstrainer right for you? Here's a review to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $1999 (+ Free Shipping)
Stride Length: 18 - 32" (Variable Motion)
Resistance Levels: 16
Built In Workout Programs: 12
Upper Body Arms: Yes - Cardio Core Arms
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip + Wireless
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
iPod Dock with Speakers
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 5 Year Parts and 2 years on Labor
