Proform Hybrid Trainer Review – A Good Buy or No?
The Proform Hybrid Trainer Elliptical is a very popular a 2-in-1 elliptical trainer and bike.
For under $600 you get an elliptical trainer that also transforms into a bike in 2 easy steps.
It also takes up less space than a standard elliptical or bike – making it a great choice for smaller workout areas like condos or apartments.
Plus Proform recently added a tablet holder above the console.
So you can watch your favorite shows, movies or even connect with iFit for some virtual reality fun as you workout.
So is it a good buy for you? How does it really stack up?
Here’s a rundown of what you need to know about the Proform Hybrid Trainer:
Proform Hybrid Trainer Specs:
Price: $599 + Free Shipping
Stride: 15 inches
Resistance Levels: 16
iFit? Yes – Compatible
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
Built-In Workouts: 16
Footprint: 70.5”L x 24.5”W
Warranty: 5-Year Frame Warranty and 90-Day Parts & Labor Warranty.
Proform Hybrid Trainer Review – Key Benefits:
2-Machines-In-One
This is really the biggest benefit of this machine – you get 2 exercise machines in one: a recumbent bike and an elliptical trainer.
So you can relax in the recumbent bike on those days when you’re not up to a heavy workout.
Or step it up with the elliptical trainer when you’re more energized.
The trainer is easily converted from bike to elliptical and vice versa just by adjusting the pedals and console.
You can do it quickly. There’s no long drawn out process and you don’t need strong muscles to do it – it’s very simple.
You could even do 20 minutes on the bike then change it over and do 20 minutes on the elliptical for some workout crosstraining.
This machine is also great for smaller workout areas since it takes up a lot less space than two machines would.
Tablet Holder Above the Console
There’s a sturdy bracket above the console for your tablet. So you can watch your favorite shows, Netlix or just surf the net as you workout.
You can also connect with iFit (see below) and watch in real time as you run or bike famous world trails – from Paris to Hawaii.
Easy To Read Backlit Console
Proform upgraded the console on the newer Hybrid Trainer model last year to include a backlit console.
While it’s fairly simple in layout, it’s still very easy to read your workout stats.
It’s also pretty easy to use – you don’t need the manual to figure out how to use it like you do with some other ellipticals these days.
This display tracks your speed, time, distance, and calories burned. Another nice touch is the adjustable console angle – so you can move it to the best position to view all your stats.
Oversized, Adjustable Pedals
Proform also improved the pedals on the newer version of the Hybrid trainer with better traction.
There’s several foot position options so you can find the right fit for you.
iFit Enabled
If you have a tablet you can attach it above the console and connect to iFit Coach. From there you can track your workouts over time or even download new workouts to your machine.
You can also run or bike different world trails – from Paris to Hawaii with iFit and watch the actual scenery pass you by in the tablet screen for a more virtual reality experience.
16 Resistance Levels
The 16 different resistance levels can be changed with the touch of a button from the console window. This is a great way to add more high-calorie-burning intervals to your exercise sessions.
EKG Heart Rate Monitor
Stay in your target fat-burning zone with the hand grip pulse monitor just in front of the main console.
iPod Dock
If you want more entertainment while you run or bike you can also plug in your iPod and listen to your favorite tunes through the built-in speakers.
Proform Hybrid Trainer Review – What You Should Know:
Shorter Stride
The 15 inch stride may be a bit short for taller users. If you’re over 6 feet, you may want to consider taking a step up to the Hybrid Trainer Pro model – with a 17 inch stride – for a more comfortable fit.
iFit Subscription
While you don’t need iFit to use this elliptical bike, if you want to try out the iFit workouts, you’ll need an online subscription. Also note that if you don’t have a tablet you don’t really get too much of the virtual reality benefit of iFit (but you will still get the online tracking).
Bottom Line?
If you really like the thought of getting 2 fitness machines for the price of one, you may want to check out the Proform Hybrid Trainer. It’s affordable and takes up less space than having two full machines in your home.
It’s easy to change back and forth into a bike or elliptical. Plus you get a bright, easy-to-read console complete with iPod dock and iFit options for more workout fun.
It does have a simple console and the stride is a bit short on this trainer – but for the price point, it’s an excellent value.
Where To Save:
You can get a Special Offer on the Proform Hybrid trainer direct from the Manufacturer here. You can also get Free Shipping to your home, which will save you about $150.
Click Here to Save on the Proform Hybrid Trainer
