Feel - You should feel as if you are walking or running naturally and very fluidly, and should not feel as if you are being forced to lean forward or backward -- or to unnaturally tense any lower-body or foot muscles to keep your balance.
Fit - Make sure the model fits your build and height. The console and controls should be within easy reach without straining. If it has moveable upper-body arms to hold, the height and position should feel comfortable and not as if you are reaching forward or upward awkwardly to hang on. The height should also not force you to tense your shoulders and should feel natural.
Foot platforms - Should be large enough to move your feet around as needed for comfort, placing them farther forward or backward, close or farther apart for good fit for your body. Should have lips around the edges for safety and a non-slip surface.
Resistance settings - You should be able to vary the resistance (how hard it will feel as you pedal) to fit your needs. Can you go easy enough or hard enough while using the machine? The setting variability should be wide enough to accommodate your workout as you change, as well as anyone else who may use it.
Heart-rate monitoring - Two types, grip or telemetry. "Grip" means you hold onto a specific place on handles with each hand and the pulse transmits to the console for readout. Sometimes movement can make these less accurate, as can cold hands. "Telemetry" means you wear a chest strap that reads your heart beat and the reading is seen on the console. Seeing your heart rate can be motivating -- once you've researched what a good range for you is.
Computerized controls and visual feedback on the panel for easier use and motivation. Decide whether you prefer the blinking computerized lights of an LED console or the simple LCD, which resembles a watch readout without hands. An LCD will be less expensive.
Warranties - At least a one-year manufacturer's warranty on parts. Most companies these days offer various levels from 1-10 years, with some offering lifetime warranties on frames. Consider looking for a few years on the motor, too. Decide how long you'll have it and how much you need. But, remember, like cars and other electronics, usually if something will go wrong, you'll need it in the first few weeks or month.
Features to Avoid:
Foot pedals that are so wide apart that you are forced to stand with your feet farther apart than your hips, putting a constant strain on glutes, hips, low back and knees. Especially problematic for woman who normally have narrower hips and legs that "angle in" slightly at the knee. Foot placement that is too wide adds extra torque in the wrong places to the lower body.
A jerky or unnatural feel.
No warranty.
Shaking, rattling or squeaking while you workout.
Variables to Consider:
Affordability - Cheap ellipticals can be had for as little as $300-$500, but usually won't offer the stability and features of higher-quality units. Pretty decent ones for a lower budget can be found for $800-$1,500 (list, before any discounts) -- fewer features, but still good, basic workouts. Higher-end ellipticals (that still won't require a second mortgage) will cost about $1,700-$2,800 and can offer a full range of programs and superior stability. Of course, if you have the money and want all the programs and stability of an elliptical like the ones at a local health club, you can spend $3,500-$6,000. And then your kids can will it to your grandkids.
Stride length - You'll find ranges offered from about 14 to 20 inches. If you have longer legs, you'll want one with a longer capability.
Foot platform height - You will have to step up pretty high on some to get on -- perhaps intimidating or awkward, especially if you are short or it is for someone who is older or less stable. Some are set lower. Make sure it's comfortable for you.
Space available - Most rear-drive ellipticals hog nearly as much space as a treadmill because of the large rear drive unit. Front drive ellipticals usually have a smaller footprint, but have higher-profile front shrouds. A few companies offer ellipticals with "ramps" (the long lever upon which the foot platform is) that can be folded up or in for storage.
Full-body workout - Most ellipticals these days offer what is called "total body" or full-body workouts because of vertical arms on both sides of the machine that move forward and backward with the pedal motion. The concept is, if you hold onto them you also workout your upper body. But they keep swinging back and forth even if you decide not to use them. Make sure you know your preferences and verify the moving arms won't get in your way if you don't use them. And if you won't use them all the time, make sure there is a set of stationary handlebars, too.
Weight - If you are very heavy, make sure the elliptical is built to accommodate that weight. Manufacturers these days often specify weight limits.
Electronics, visual feedback or built-in programs - To thine own self, be true. If you know you need blinking lights, programs to fiddle with and such things, don’t chintz. A few hundred extra may be worth the price to keep you motivated.
Heart-rate monitoring - These days you can buy a monitor for less than $100. OK, the pulse rate doesn't show up on the console, but if money is an issue, look at this choice.
Console amenities - Is there a water bottle holder or reading rack? Do you care if there is? Is there some kind of tray to put a CD-player or TV remote? Small things can make for comfort.
Wheels - If you will need to move it in and out of a corner for a workout, make sure it has wheels and you can handle it.
Power - Is it self-generating (no plug in required) or electrical? Make sure you know there is a plug nearby, if that's what you choose.
A GearTrends® Buying Truth from Therese Iknoian: "An elliptical can be a very personal fit, feel and preference. Don't just buy a brand name because of the name, or select one just because somebody else raves about (or a reviewer said it was "the best"). Make sure you have tried it for at least 10-15 minutes -- including pedaling backward if you think you may like to do that -- to test the fit and feel for your body."
