NordicTrack AudioStrider
990
Elliptical Trainer Review
With Adjustable Power Incline
The
AudioStrider 990 elliptical is one NordicTrack's most popular
crosstrainers, and it recently received a "Best Buy"
rating from the venerable Consumer Reports.
The Power Incline feature is what makes
it so appealing. It is similar to the adjustable incline on
a treadmill. By increasing or descreasing the incline you can
target different muscle groups. According to NordicTrack:
"Changing the incline of an elliptical changes the
shape of the elliptical stride, which alters the muscle groups
that your workout focuses on. With a wide range of incline
settings, you can work every muscle in your legs and glutes."
Note: As of 8/12/08 the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 was
selling for $999, with shipping. Go to
www.NordicTrack.com
for the latest price.
There
are other brands that offer this feature, but they are commercial
grade models for the home, and cost a minimum of $3,000 (See
Precor Ellipticals).
Meanwhile, the AudioStrider 990 normally sells for $999.
I've used the power incline, and in addition to exercising
different muscle groups, it gives an intense cardio workout,
allowing you to burn more calories in less time. You can adjust
the incline up to 30%, which is equivalent to hiking up a steep
mountain.
Additional NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 Elliptical Trainer
Features:
Acoustics™ Sound System - For a speaker system
installed in an elliptical console it rocks. The clarity is
quite good, and when you crank up the subwoofer, you can feel
it vibrate the entire machine. It accepts popular audio inputs
like MP3 and iPod.
iFIT Technology - iFIT is like having your own personal
trainer. iFIT is a series of programmable cards you insert
into the elliptical trainer (Price $30). Each card offers
an 8-week program that covers 24 different workouts. The programs
control the incline, speed and duration of the workout, and
are designed by personal trainers. Included is audio coaching,
motivation and suggestions to optimize your workout. There
are 3 levels to choose from - beginner, intermediate and advanced.
In addition, they cover different fitness goals - wellness,
weight loss, body shaping and endurance.
18"
Elliptical Stride - This stride length is ideal for average
size individuals. It gives a smooth elliptical motion, rather
than a bouncy feel. In addition, with the extra long foot
pedals you can further adjust your stride to your comfort
level.
Space Saver Design - The AudioStrider 990 folds. It
doesn't save that much space, approximately 24", but
when folded it does make it easier to move around.
Short Pedal Distance - You'll find the pedals on the
NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 are a short distance apart. This
is a feature particularly attractive to shorter individuals.
I've had several complaints from people buying machines with
wide pedal distance, causing the elliptical motion to be awkward
and uncomfortable.
20 Personal Trainer Workouts, 2 Heart Rate Workouts and
2 Learned Programs - These are programs are pre-installed
in the elliptical. Considering this is a moderately priced
machine, the selection is generous. I find using different
workout programs helps to alleviate the boredom of exercising
and promotes an increase cardio workout and fat burn.
Warranty - One-year parts and labor. I would rate
the coverage as average and recommend increasing the coverage
by another year or two.
Our Review - NordicTrack 990 Elliptical Trainer
The NordicTrack AudioStrider elliptical trainer is a good bargain
when selling at $999. Overall, you get an excellent selection
of features. For example, the PowerRamp adds a whole new
dimension to your workout. That is why Precor ellipticals
are so popular in health clubs. The sound system is the best
you'll find in any fitness equipment.
I would recommend this elliptical for moderate use. If you
plan to exercise excessively, or there will be multiple users,
you want to upgrade. In addition, the suggested 325 lbs. weight
limit is pushing it. I would set it at 240 lbs. or less.
With any elliptical at this price range I am concerned about
the quality control. I was told by NordicTrack the service record
is good and the return rate is extremely low. Personally, I have yet to received any angry customer reviews.
Considering all of the above, I would suggest this is one of
the better values when selling at $999.
Consumer Reports Review
For their 2008 reviews CR gave the AudioStrider 990 a "Best
Buy" rating. It was listed as excellent for exercise range
and good for construction and ease of use.
For more information go to NordicTrack.com
Also see the NordicTrack
Elite 1300 elliptical trainer review. and the NordicTrack
ARS 1000.
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