Switching from running to using the elliptical was one of the best choices I’ve ever made.
Seriously.
Yes, it may sound like hyperbole, but I had been an avid runner my entire life. And don’t let anyone tell you that running is easy on the body.
Whether you hit the treadmill or pound on the concrete, running places a great deal of stress on your body.
Ellipticals, on the other hand, provide many of the benefits of running but without the high-stress impact.
That’s why I’m going to review the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical below.
First, I’ll run through the benefits of ellipticals, then touch on the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Elliptical before introducing some popular alternatives.
Without any further ado, let’s jump in!
Factors to Consider Before Buying and Elliptical
Built with handles and full-motion pedals, ellipticals provide a full-body, low-impact workout that both improves cardiovascular health and may build strength.
Compared to traditional treadmills, ellipticals put much less stress on your knees, ankles, and joints.
This makes them perfect for those that suffer from arthritis or other painful physical conditions.
Through a repetitive, rotating motion, both the upper and lower body is engaged in a synchronized motion at the same time.
It can burn as many (or more) calories as running with significantly less effort.
Ellipticals can be customized based on the user’s current physical ability.
Both the pedals and handles typically come with customizable resistance levels, mimicking the sensation of climbing different types of outdoor terrain.
Ellipticals most strongly engage the quadriceps, front calves, and hamstrings.
However, the lower back, buttocks, triceps, and even the pectorals are all strengthened as well in a high-intensity session.
Essential Questions to Ask
Before you go out and purchase an elliptical, you should ask yourself these key questions:
- What budget do I have set aside for new exercise equipment?
- Will an elliptical help me to achieve a lower impact workout than my current regimen?
- Do I have the space to accommodate a new elliptical in my home?
- Would I prefer a low-impact cardio workout, like the one provided by using an elliptical, or a more strength-focused workout?
Keep in mind that different machines vary quite widely in terms of price, quality, and features.
You’ll at least need an elliptical with variable resistance, a workout metric monitor, and a wide range of motion.
If you suffer from any pre-existing conditions, we recommend you first consult with a doctor before buying a new elliptical.
The XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical
Built to provide the smoothest range of motion possible, the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Elliptical is just as affordable as it is effective at burning serious calories.
The dual-action machine features a heavy-weight 17.6-pound flywheel system that drives all the strength-training benefits.
With a 14-inch stride length, the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical provides a consistent, comfortable motion for users of most heights.
Riders can monitor their workout through the spacious 5″ by 2.5″ LCD display, which tracks everything from rotations per minute to distance, calories burned, and resistance.
You’ll never get bored, considering the elliptical is packed with thirteen custom exercise programs, including two heart rate controls, one user-defined, and one manual program.
The machine offers 16 levels of resistance, making it suitable for athletes at any stage in their own fitness journey.
Moreover, the slim design measures just 24″ by 51″ (LxW), making it space economical for most small homes.
Pros
- Built-in side levers allow you to adjust for uneven surfacs
- Covered by 30-day money back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied
- Features tons of custom workout programs that’ll keep you engaged the entire workout
Cons
- Power cord is somewhat short at just 6 feet long
- May be somewhat tricky to properly assemble the first time
- Some complain the machine starts to squeak a little bit after a few months of use
Features and Benefits of the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical
The XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 dual action elliptical comes with many benefits. Consider a few of the most important ones below.
Durable Design
The XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical is built to stand the test of time.
Featuring a heavy-duty, 17.6 pounds weighted flywheel, the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical provides a smooth, consistent range of motion with almost no noise production.
The machine provides a 14″ stride length, which is perfect for users of most heights.
All major components of the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical are made from high-quality metal – that’s in contrast with the composite plastics you’d find on cheaper models.
Built-in transport wheels make it easy to move your equipment while the compact design allows you to stow the machine anywhere.
At 99 pounds, this sturdy machine can accommodate users up to 250 pounds in weight. Keep in mind the machine is covered by a generous 5-year frame and one-year parts warranty.
Includes Workout Programs
Aside from the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5’s construction, it’s also tailored with high-quality software that makes exercising fun.
The machine is pre-programmed with 13 inspiring workout programs that help keep you motivated.
The programs include six presets, four heart rate controls, one custom, one body fat, and one manual mode for instant pedaling.
All workout metrics are displayed on the easy to read 5″ by 2.5″ LCD screen. You can even monitor your progress based on the current workout program you have selected.
With 16 levels of variable resistance, athletes of all stripes can find the perfect challenge based on their current fitness level.
What Do Buyers Think?
So, what do real buyers actually think?
I made sure to peruse the web in search of reviews of the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 dual action elliptical.
Review #1
“I really, really enjoy this elliptical. I assembled it with my son in just about an hour and, since then, we’ve used it every single day. Unlike other machines, it doesn’t take up much space and has wheels for ease of movement – which is super important for my small home,” one reviewer mentioned. “Want a machine that’s well-made and affordable? This elliptical is right for you. I couldn’t recommend it enough.”
Review #2
“I was really impressed with this elliptical. For the price, you are receiving a very sturdy piece of equipment. Of course, the assembly instructions leave a lot to be desired – they aren’t that explanatory,” another stated. “Regardless, the FS1.5 is super quiet and will give you a killer workout. I’m 5’3″ and the stride is great for me.”
Review #3
“It’s the perfect size for a tiny apartment,” yet another commented. “At first, I was very unsure whether it would be possible to have an elliptical in my home. Yet even in use, the machine doesn’t take up much space and I’m impressed with how nice it looks. It’s smooth and quiet. It provides a comfortable workout for both me and my boyfriend. I am so pleased with this purchase!”
Overall, most buyers are very satisfied with the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical, stating that it operates smoothly, quietly, and without requiring much real estate.
Some caution that the assembly instructions are unclear, yet – once it’s set up – the machine works like a dream.
Popular Alternatives to the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 Dual Action Elliptical
Not certain yet that the XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 dual action elliptical is the right product for you?
Don’t worry – I’ve compiled a brief list of some other popular, customer-loved ellipticals offered at friendly prices.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical
Carrying up to 220 pounds, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical adjusts easily to any intensity with eight precise, micro-controlled levels of magnetically variable resistance.
Users can monitor the progress of their workout on the digital LCD screen, which displays information like time spent, speed, distance traversed, calories burned, and heart rate.
A pair of anti-slip, sweat-wicking handlebars, and textured foot pads provide a safe, stable workout. This is especially important for users with mobility or balance impairments.
You can even stabilize (or level) the machine through the built-in stabilizers, which accommodate for many different floor types.
This compact machine measures just 28″ x 17″ x 57″ (LxWxH), which is ideal for most small and mid-sized homes.
Pros
- Handlebars and spacious footpads feature anti-slip grip coating
- Made from high-quality, powder-coated steel components
- Half the price of its major competitors
Cons
- Stride length is less than a foot, which may not be enough for taller riders
MaxKare Magnetic Elliptical Machine
The MaxKare Magnetic Elliptical Machine features a front-wheel drive system that provides a more natural, body-safe movement for reducing the impact on your knees, ankles, and joints.
Moreover, the machine features a heavy-duty design that’s durable enough to support users up to 264 pounds in weight.
At any resistance or speed, you can pedal to your heart’s content without a hint of vibration from the MaxKare frame.
The spacious display penal tracks all your favorite fitness data, including time spent, speed, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and scan.
You can place your smart device on the iPad holder, allowing you to follow along with workout vids or stream your favorite entertainment.
The dual handles allow you to make your exercise more diversified.
At a fixed position, the handlebars allow you to fully isolate for a leg workout that engages your glutes, hamstrings, and quads. In movement, the handlebars allow for full-body engagement.
The MaxKare Magnetic Elliptical Machine is easy to move, too. With built in transportation wheels, you can stow the machine away whenever it’s not in use.
Pros
- Supports users up to 264 pounds
- Dual-action handlebars allow for isolated or full-body workout
- Front wheel drive system allows for more natural range of motion that reduces bodily impact and mitigates the opportunity for post-workout injury
Cons
- Does make some noise that would wake up any light sleepers when used in the same room
BestLucky Elliptical Machine
Designed to provide a high-intensity cardio workout, the BestLucky Elliptical Machine uses dual-action forward and backward pedaling through a 13″ stride length.
The sturdy frame can support users up to 330 pounds.
The machine offers eight levels of magnetic micro-controlled resistance, making for an easier or more challenging workout. A convenient tension knob helps you to adjust the intensity.
The BestLucky also features a performance LCD monitor that tracks speed, time spent, distance traversed, and calories burned.
The handles feature integrated pulse grips, allowing you to monitor your heart rate and stay in your target zone with ease.
Additionally, the BestLucky elliptical is built with an inertia-enhanced flywheel that delivers a more natural ride. A set of transportation wheels keep the elliptical portable and easily storable.
Keep in mind that users have had variable experiences with the BestLucky Elliptical Machine.
Although it’s one of the most affordable products out there, some state that assembly is extremely difficult and unsatisfied users have found it impossible to get a refund.
Pros
- Easy to adjust workout intensity without stopping natural movement
- Built-in heart rate sensors make it easier to adjust workout to your target zone
- Smooth and quiet system is driven through interia-based flywheel and magnetic resistance program
Cons
- Difficult to get in contact with the manufacturer for a refund
Final Thoughts
The XTERRA Fitness FS1.5 dual action elliptical is one of the most affordable yet feature-rich ellipticals you’ll find on the market.
Featuring tons of pre-programmed workouts and accommodating a wide range of motion, the machine is perfect for newbies and experienced athletes alike.
