LifeCore Elliptical Trainer Review

lifecore Elliptical Trainer Review It is hard keeping up with all the different elliptical trainer brands, and since I am one individual I have to be selective in determining which models to review. However, when a leading consumer magazine gives a "Best Buy" I take notice and offer my feedback.

I journeyed to the big city, Raleigh, and checked out several LifeCore ellipticals at U.S. Fitness Products. Clint Arms, the general manager was very accommodating in discussing the features of the LifeCore elliptical trainers.

Note: As of 9/1/10 the LifeCore LC985VG was selling for $633 with free shipping at Amazon.com. That is an excellent value for an award winning elliptical. See Review.

You can purchase the other at LifeCore Ellipticals direct at the Lifecore Store. All prices include free shipping.

LifeCore fitness initially offered some very impressive compact rear drive elliptical trainers, now they are expanding their line-up with equally impressive center drive machines that are light commercial grade. Their ellipticals do not include a lot of bells and whistles. What you get are some of the best crosstrainers built in their price range.

Center Drive LifeCore Elliptical Trainers

A number of companies are converting their ellipticals to a center design for a number of reasons.

They are more stable.
Yor body is better centered over the mechanics. You don't need to lean into the handlebars.
They take up considerably less space (46" length).

There are a couple of additional advantages to the center drive elliptical trainer. In general, their foot pedals are closer together, causing less stress and discomfort on your hips. Also, the center drive models are typically easier to mount and dismount. The pedals are only 8" high and are accessible from the rear of the machine.

There are currently four center drive models. The LifeCore CD400 and LifeCore 600 with a 21" stride, and the LifeCore CD500 and LifeCore CD700 with an adjustable 17"-25" stride. What is particularly appealing is the adjustable stride on the CD500 and the CD700. It is ideal for multiple users of different heights. In addition, when you change the stride length and focus your workout on different lower muscle groups.

It should also be noted that both the CD500 and CD700 are also available for light commercial use. These are heavy duty machines that can take excessive abuse.

LifeCore LC985VG

lifecore lc985sv elliptical The LifeCore LC985VG Elliptical Trainer is what put LifeCore on the radar. It received a "Best Buy" rating from a leading consumer magazoine whose name I cannot mention. As a "Cnsumer" can you guess?

The LC985VG has adjustable foot pedals where you can shorten or lengthen your stride. This feature allows you to adjust the pedals to your exact comfort level. In addition, all the pivotal joints use sealed bearings rather than bushings, which reduce wear and tear and potential mechanical problems.

An indication of the quality of this very reasonably priced elliptical is the 5-year parts warranty.

I found the LC985VG to be extremely quiet with a very smooth motion. Part of that can be attributed to the use of bearings in the pivotal joints. My only comment is the suggested user weight. It is rated up to a 300 lbs. user. The LC985VG only weighs 125 lbs. Do the math. Also the stride is 17.5". I would not recommend this elliptical for tall individuals. Regardless, the LC985VG is a value buy for a compact budget elliptical.

Our Review - LifeCore Elliptical Trainers

The LifeCore center drive ellipticals are heavy duty crosstrainers that provide a superior workout. The models that allow you to adjust the stride add a new dimension to crosstraining.

Their compact LC985VG elliptical is a small machine that feel like a big machine. This is in an entirely different realm from the cheap compact models you find in the mass merchant stores.

When I asked the store manager that sold LifeCore Ellipticals about their service record, his comments were, "They are built rock solid and the company keeps them simple. There have been virtually no service issues."

If you are looking for a no frills elliptical that focuses on quality and durability, than LifeCore is a definite consideration.

You can learn more at the Lifecore Store.

Customer Review

I took a chance a purchased (3) Lifecore 1000z for my training studio. The 985VG felt good also but did not have a commercial warranty. They are GREAT! My clients love them and I love the size. They are "very sturdy" for any elliptical let alone a compact one. I've told all of my friends and those who bought are just as happy as I am. I've had them for over a year without any problem and alot of use. If you get a chance you should try and I'm sure you will give them an positive review.

Also see LifeCore Rowing Machine Review.