Optimum Fitness Fitness News and equipment reviews
Opening the batting for the Precor Elliptical range is the simple and good looking EFX 221 Crosstrainer. This machine is a stripped down version of the popular Precor 222 model. The biggest difference you can see is the lack of moving handles. This version has fixed handlebars.
If you are looking for Precor quality without the huge price tag this may be the model for you. It comes in a shade under $1800, yet still has that premium feel that users associate with the brand.
For the latest price click here>>>
- Our Analysis
- Specifications
- Compare the Precor Range
- Video
Elliptical Motion
The designers of this elliptical wanted just one feature to stand out, and that is a comfortable smooth ride. That is why the 221 EFX (and all other Precor Ellipticals) are rear drive. This means that the flywheel is behind the rider. The advantage of this is to allow a more natural path to be followed by the pedals.
Also because the mechanical parts are behind you, any noise they emit (and that is not much) is less likely to be heard. This makes the Precor elliptical machines extremely quiet. Ideal for the home or in a multi user setting.
CrossRamp
The elliptical path is just the start of the motion. With the Precor CrossRamp Technology it is possible to change the incline of the trainer. This will allow you to train more muscle groups, eg calfs or thighs.
Precor have taken this to a new level, with CrossRamp they have managed to achieve this without changing the elliptical path. Most manufactures change the orbit of the elliptical so you end up with a longer stride as you go up the hill. This can get uncomfortable if you are shorter.
With this entry level model you will have to manually adjust this height, and the adjustments are limited to a maximum of 15 degree angle. If you are happy to keep the level of the elliptical unchanged then this may not be an issue, but if you do need frequent height adjustment then you may want to consider one of the higher models, such as the 225 model
Training Levels
Besides being height adjustable it is also possible to vary the resistance, and there are 16 levels to choose from.
Console
Simple and elegant. The console is designed to be simple and easy to use. The number of buttons is minimal, and its clear what function each has.
The display, a back lit LED shows all the information clearly and concisely including workout time, strides per minute, distance traveled, calories burned, resistance level and program profile.
You can also track heart rate through the Smart Rate heart rate system. When you start up the exercise simply enter your age and weight and it will workout your target heart rate to ensure that you remain within your training zone.
However you will see that Precor have really kept the bells and whistles to a minimum. There is no fan, or speaker system built in. My view is that generally these systems don’t work as advertised. If you need a fan, get a stand up and put it next to the machine.
What it does have is a bottle holder, big enough to hold a medium sized bottle or an Iphone. There is also a ledge where you could rest a book. But I would be careful with an iPad as it may slip off.
One issue with the console is its lack of user memory. You will have to enter your age and height every time you go on the machine.
Warranty
The Precor EFX 221 comes with a lifetime frame and welds, 5-year parts and 1 year labor warranty. This is a great warranty length and testament to the high quality products that Precor are producing.
Dimensions 76 by 29 by 62 inches (L x W x H)
Weight 162 lbs
User Reviews of the Precor EFX 221 Elliptical Fitness Crosstrainer
This is not the most popular Elliptical, given its lack of moving handle bars. The reviews are mixed and reflect this. One one hand you have users liking the quality and build, another commented the console would not fire up and awarded this 1 star.
Click here to read more pros and cons >>> Precor EFX 221 Reviews
Any Negatives?
Some may find that the lack of moving arms makes this workout a little less demanding. Some may prefer the simplicty and and extra stabilty this offers
If you prefer the movement of the arms then the Precor 222 the “real” entry level version.
- Elliptical trainer with fixed handlebars; offers smooth, natural, low-impact, lower-body workouts
- Eight preset programs; 16 resistance levels; built-in warm-up and cool-down periods
- Touch and telemetry heart rate monitoring; CrossRamp adjusts to target specific muscles
- Measures 76 inches by 62 inches by 29 inches; weighs 162 pounds
- Lifetime warranty on frame and welds; five-year warranty on parts; one-year warranty on labor
Summary
As stated in the comments above. This is a finely made machine that will give years of great service. However the lack of moving arms means that its not for me. I would rather spend a little more, or look for a different model.