Optimum Fitness Fitness News and equipment reviews
Since the revelations of the founder of Livestrong Lance Armstrong broke, Livestrong have stopped producing elliptical trainers.
If you are looking for an Elliptical of similar quality and feel to the LS 8.0E then we would recommend the Horizon Fitness EX-69-2. This is a superb Elliptical that is made by the same company as the Livestrong model.
The entry level model of the Livestrong Elliptical range, the LS8.0e is made to impress. It certainly looks striking with its bold black, grey and yellow colour scheme.
Sitting around the $800 it is a reasonably priced machine, and looking at the specs with a 20″ stride and 23lb flywheel it already looks appealing.
Read on to see if these features deliver the comfort and workout that you need to achieve your goals.
- Our Analysis
- Features and Comparison
- Video
- Livestrong
Livestrong went back to basics when they designed their range of ellipticals. They use a system that is designed to produce the most ergonomic training platform they can using the following 6 principles. As these are what makes the elliptical what it is lets look at them in detail.
Body Positioning: With the handles are directly above the foot pads, forcing you to ride in a strong upright position. You won’t be able to slouch on this machine, which will ensure that you engage your full core muscles during the training.
Handlebar Spacing: The handlebars feature long grips extending down the top of the handle. This gives a good comfortable reach no matter your height.
Elliptical foot path: Key to safe comfortable workout is the path that the pedals take. With a 20″ stride there is enough space, and with the well thought out curve of the path it is very comfortable.
Pedal Placement: To minimise strain on the hips the pedals have been placed as close together as possible. This stops a lateral side to side motion, and allows a more natural up down movement of the legs.
Access: This is a front drive elliptical, meaning that the business end (fly wheel / motor etc) are located in front of the driver. This makes accessing the elliptical easy as there is nothing to step over.
Drive: With a well balanced 23lb fly wheel the movement is smooth and fluid. With no jerks to the motion.
Other Features:
Flywheel
The flywheel is 23lbs, this is acceptable for an elliptical in this price range. Larger fly wheels (30lbs+) provide a smoother ride but cost more to support. At level the 23lbs is more than adequate and still delivers a comfortable ride.
Incline
This is probably the weakest area of this elliptical. While the incline will adjust it is manual, so you will need to set it up before you start your workout. There are 5 stops of adjustment available to allow different muscle groups to be targeted.
Console
The console gives access to all the normal features that you would expect to find. It’s two LED feedback windows that track: your time, resistance, distance, speed, calories burned.
Heart rate is monitored via the contacts on the grips.
In addition there are 2 reasonable speakers that you can plug your MP3 into.
Finally the console gives access to the 9 workout programs. With names like: Weight Loss, Muscle Toner, Strength Builder, Constant Watts, Mellow Johnny’s Trail, Lance’s Climb its fairly easy to see what kind of workout you will be doing. In addition you can program in your own workouts and save them on 2 spare memory spaces.
Finally there is a built in fan to keep you cool while exercising.
Maneuverability
This thing weighs a hefty 192lbs. I would not recommend trying to pack this away after your workout.
The weight does mean that its a good solid machine that will last years. This is providing you don’t exceed the recommended weight limit of 300lbs.
Warranty
Reasonably good, with Lifetime frame and brake, and 1 year parts and labor warranty.
What are others saying about the Livestrong LS8.0E
All the Livestrong Ellipticals are well regarded, and this is no exception. Receiving a strong 4 out of 5 stars.
When pitted against the Horizon EX-59 it has a higher flywheel weight (17lbs vs 23lbs). The Livestrong is easy to assemble and works well. The ride is incredibly smooth for an elliptical in this price range, and has a generous range of workout programs.
The main issue is the console which is a little on the basic side, showing only the essential information. For a more sophisticated console then you would need to upgrade to the LS10.0e
Any issues?
Nothing major, this is a solid well thought out and built trainer. At this price the flywheel and mechanics are good, however some of the technological features such as the speakers and console are a little weak.
For my money I would prefer a well built machine rather than one with all the gadgets.
James’ Buying Tip:
This Elliptical shares the same frame as the more expensive models, the LS10.0e and the LS13.0e. They may have more in the way of flywheel weight and technology, but the ride is the same high quality.
Summary
At under $800 it is hard to find fault with this machine. It is probably the best elliptical in this price range. If you want more then you would really have to spend more, but really that is not necessary. The LS8.0E is more than enough for most occasional users to meet their fitness goals.
This model is discontinued to see more about our recommended Horizon EX-69-2 Click here