Stretching is arguably the weakest link in my fitness regimen.
I constantly question if I’m targeting the right muscles, and my form leaves a lot to be desired.
But I know stretching offers some pretty amazing benefits, like boosting blood flow, increasing flexibility, and improving joint range of motion.
So, when the opportunity arose to write a Precor 240i StretchTrainer Review, I was instantly intrigued.
My thinking was, if I had a dedicated stretch machine that targets all the main muscle groups and ensures impeccable form, maybe I could start reaping the benefits of a consistent stretch routine.
Who Can Benefit From Stretch Training Equipment?
Stretch trainers are great for people who want a stretch routine comprised of a limited number of basic stretch positions.
Like other types of exercise machines, stretch trainers take the guesswork out of body positioning, so you’ll have an easier time moving in and out of stretches while maintaining proper form.
The makers of stretch trainers claim their products offer an effective “gym-like” stretching experience.
I’ve seen people using stretch machines in gyms before, so that concept resonated with me.
Stretch training devices are intended for use by people across the fitness spectrum.
However, because they offer a limited number of exercises, these machines might be less suitable for sports-specific workouts.
Elite athletes, dancers, gymnasts and others with specific flexibility goals might find stretch training machines helpful but somewhat limited in terms of what they offer.
Also, if you can’t imagine where you’d put another piece of exercise equipment, or if you have budget constraints, you might want to stick with smaller and/or less expensive stretch tools.
A simple yoga mat and a stretch strap can go pretty far if you’re motivated to use them.
Considerations Before You Buy a Stretch Trainer
If you’re looking into purchasing stretch training equipment, consider the following.
Size and Weight
Stretch trainers aren’t huge, but they do require some amount of floor space.
Do you have room in your house, apartment, or dorm room for a bulky piece of equipment?
Does your exercise area double as a bedroom or living room?
If so, you likely need a unit that you can move easily and stash away between uses.
Comfort
Does the equipment you’re considering have sufficient padding in key places?
Will your rear end and knees feel supported?
Is the handlebar easy to grip?
Is the unit designed to comfortably accommodate someone of your height and weight?
Limited Use
Stretch trainers generally allow for only a limited number of stretches.
Given your level of training and your personal physical fitness goals, do you think the equipment will be sufficient?
Ease of Use
Does the unit come with clear, easy-to-follow illustrations and/or written instructions?
What other features are included that might enhance the quality of your stretch routine?
Cost
Are you prepared to invest in a good piece of equipment?
Stretch trainers aren’t cheap, but if having this particular piece of equipment will motivate you to stretch regularly, or if you want to ensure you’re using proper form when you stretch, then it might be worth the cost.
Warranty
Does the company stand by its product?
No one expects problems, but if your stretch device is faulty, it helps to know you have some recourse.
With those considerations in mind, we can get down to business.
Here’s our Precor 240i StretchTrainer Review.
Why Buy the Precor 240i StretchTrainer?
As I was preparing this Precor 240i StretchTrainer review, I took a good, hard look at the specs and at what real-world customers had to say.
I learned that the Precor 240i StretchTrainer is an effective, high-performance, gym-quality piece of equipment.
Precor has built an excellent reputation for its machines, serving as equipment suppliers to fitness facilities, health-related businesses, and homes in over 90 countries.
In fact, you might have spotted their stretch trainers in your local gym or used one at your physical therapist’s office.
The company emphasizes that the Precor 240i StretchTrainer is sturdy, built to last, and ergonomic.
We concur, and we’ll dig into the specifics soon.
For now, here’s a quick overview of the pros and cons of the Precor 240i StretchTrainer.
Pros
- Sturdy frame
- Comfortable and durable padding
- Illustrated instructions
- Safe to use
- Lifetime warranty on frame
Cons
- Seat isn’t adjustable, so taller or shorter individuals might find the unit uncomfortable
- Front end can lift off the floor
- Expensive
Features and Benefits of the Precor 240i StretchTrainer
In preparing this Precor 240i StretchTrainer review, I discovered several outstanding features and benefits.
Frame Quality
The Precor 240i StretchTrainer has a solid frame constructed of heavy-duty steel with an impressive 2mm wall thickness.
The frame, which can support up to 250 pounds, undergoes a two-step powder-coating process that results in a rust-resistant undercoat and an attractive topcoat. All of this translates into a great-looking, durable frame that will hold up well over time, even with regular and frequent use.
Weighing in at 60 pounds, the Precor 240i StretchTrainer is a solid piece of equipment, but it’s not overwhelmingly large, heavy, or awkward to handle.
With relative ease, you can slide it into a corner or into another room for storage between uses.
Comfort and Durability
The Precor 240i StretchTrainer is fitted with premium-quality 3D urethane molded-foam padding, which proves comfortable for most users.
I was happy to learn that the seat cushion and knee pads are particularly effective, because I really don’t need a sore rear and knees.
Padded handlebars ensure a solid but comfortable grip, allowing you to maintain control over the intensity of your stretches without stressing the muscles in your fingers and hands.
The Precor’s automotive-grade, two-textured fabric meets or exceeds California fire regulations and boasts double top stitching, so the seams aren’t likely to split, even if you use the machine daily.
Illustrated Instructions
An illustrated list of exercises, which is attached to the Precor 240i StretchTrainer, guides the user through a series of eight distinct stretches.
Each of these eight stretches is designed to target a particular muscle group or groups.
I imagine having such a guide right there in front of my face would help me maintain the flow of my routine.
Here’s the breakdown of Precor-supported stretches, defined by the muscle group(s) they target:
- Lower back
- Hamstrings
- Glutes/hips
- Hips/legs/back
- Inner thighs/groin
- Upper back
- Shoulders
- Quadriceps
Safety Features
The Precor 240i StretchTrainer is all about safety and ergonomics.
The unique seated design protects the spine and the muscles of your back as you move into and hold each stretch position.
Customers claim the seat mechanism works smoothly, so there’s no wobbling, jerking or jarring. Wrist straps ensure that you won’t suddenly lose control of the handlebar.
The unit meets ASTM standards for safety.
Warranty
The Precor 240i StretchTrainer is backed by generous warranty.
The company offers a 5-year warranty on the frame, 2 years on various parts, and 90 days on the upholstery.
How Does the Precor 240i compare to other Stretch Trainers?
As we prepared this Precor 240i StretchTrainer review, we thought it was crucial to look at some other top-selling stretch trainers.
Here’s what we discovered about three popular models and how they compare to the Precor 240i.
Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine
The Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine is a comfortable, well-padded machine with some unique features.
The Nitrofit is considerably less expensive than the Precor 240i, so it might be a better option for the budget-conscious.
The Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine offers an adjustable seat, so if you’re taller or shorter than average, you might be happier with the fit.
Also, this machine has an optional calf stretch station that offers three distinct stretch angles. Personally, I like the idea that you can deepen and intensify the stretch over time.
As a bonus, the front end of the unit is fitted with wheels for easy transport.
If you have limited space, like I do, that’s a big plus.
So, in comparing the Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine vs. the Precor 240i, you’ll note that the Nitrofit offers the following benefits:
- Adjustable seat for taller/shorter individuals
- Removable calf stretch board
- Wheels for easier transport
- Lower price tag
If you would benefit from a more customizable fit, like the idea of a dedicated calf stretch station, or want a more affordable machine, consider the Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine.
It’s a solid, budget-friendly stretch trainer.
Valor Fitness CA-32
The Valor Fitness CA-32 is another top-tier alternative to the Precor.
Like the Precor, the Valor stretch trainer is crafted from rugged steel and has a sturdy feel.
It is relatively easy to assemble and enables deep, effective stretches for the back, shoulders, legs, and hips.
Unlike the Precor, the Valor Fitness CA-32 unit has an adjustable handlebar.
Overall, users find the Valor Fitness CA-32 to be a heavy-duty, super sturdy, well-padded unit, and we saw a lot of enthusiasm about the unit’s relatively low price.
We encountered some complaints about the positioning and feel of the foot supports, and some customers noted the lack of a printed placard with illustrations of the stretches.
In short, the Valor Fitness CA-32 stretch trainer offers the following advantages over the Precor:
- Adjustable handlebar
- More affordable
If you’re looking for a less pricey but equally well-built alternative to the Precor, take a look at the Valor Fitness CA-32.
It has a different foot-pad feel and lacks an illustrated exercise chart, but it’s a highly capable machine for a fraction of the cost of a Precor.
Motive Fitness TotalStretch TS150
The Motive Fitness TotalStretch TS150 is an updated version of the company’s TS100 model.
Like the TS100, it has a durable steel frame, but the Motive Fitness TotalStretch TS150’s design allows for more stretch positions than its predecessor.
The upgraded model also has padded foam leg rollers and pedals, not the simpler foot rest and foot pegs found on the TS100.
The Motive Fitness TS150 is an attractive, solid stretch machine.
For folks who want maximum grip options for a better fit and greater versatility, the Motive TS150 is an excellent option.
And if money is a major concern, the TS150 is a better option than the Precor.
Comparing the Motive Fitness TS150 to the Precor, you’ll note Motive’s model offers the following:
- Handlebar with more grip options
- A greater number of stretch positions
- Lower cost
The Motive Fitness Total Stretch TS150 is a good-looking, well-constructed unit.
The unit’s design, including the variable-grip handlebar, makes it one of the more versatile stretch machines on the market.
If you want a solid, affordable stretch trainer with smart design features, give serious consideration to the TS150.
Summing it Up
Honestly, I’d never given much thought to the stretch machines I see at the gym.
But as we wrap up our Precor 240i StretchTrainer Review, I’m feeling pretty enthusiastic about the potential benefits.
I know stretching offers tremendous health and wellness benefits, but I’ve always been side-tracked by the nitty gritty details of what to stretch, and how.
The 240i StretchTrainer is Precor’s solution to that uncertainty.
It offers eight specific stretches of key muscles groups while ensuring good form.
It’s built to last and comfortable enough to use daily.
If you’re like me, and stretching isn’t intuitive, consider investing in one of these top-quality machines.
