What is a good elliptical machine that I can buy for home use?
I'd prefer one that has both a stationary handle and handlebars that can move with the stride.
How much should I expect to budget for a good one?
We ended up going to Dick's Sporting Goods and buying a Sole E25. I worked out on it for about 5 min at the store and LOVED it. Can't wait for it to be delivered!
I would plan on no less than 600 for one that will hold up, 800 for a good one. Nordatrak is the best in home line in my opinion.
I have a Life Fitness Elliptical machine. I really like it. I had to find a machine whose feet were close together due to an injury I had a few years ago. Some machines have the feet further apart. You probably want to try whatever machine you go with in the store before you bring it home just to make sure you are comfortable on it. Although you might be shy to do it, don't just stand on it and take a couple of steps. Really use it for a few minutes to see how it feels. I ended up finding mine at a store that was changing out models, so they were selling their floor models at half price, which was an incredible deal for this brand. Sounds like the Nordic Track is pretty popular!
I have a Nordic Track from Sears. I REALLY like it and it wasn't crazy expensive (I think $800). Unfortunately, after about 18 months I had to pay $150 for a repair. BUT, my elliptical gets a ton of use - my husband and I both use it about 5x/week.
I love my Yowza Captiva. I live close to you and would be happy to let you see mine. Message me if your interested. They are a little expensive, but you get what you pay for in my opinion. I liked that the arm motion is different than I have seen on any machine. Instead of up and down, it goes right and left, working your core muscles.
http://www.yowzafitness.com/Ellipticals/Captiva
I must admit, I dont use it as much as I should (prego now with #3). But both my husband (who was very reluctant to spend the money) and I agree that it gives a great workout.
We used to have a Nordictrack, and it was decent (and half the price) but the captiva makes me sweat more!! After two kids, I needed a little more of a challenge and focus on my core.
Good luck!
I have a Nordic Track, I got it from Costco for around $700 three years ago. It has both stationary handles that also monitor your heart rate and the ones that move with your feet. It also has thirty levels of incline and mess of different programs.
Ooo and a fan.
