Smooth Fitness CE 3.0DS Elliptical Trainer Review

Elliptical Trainer and Stair Stepper Combined

Smooth Fitness is one of the more innovative fitness equipment companies in the industry, particularly with elliptical trainers. Getting a jump on the 2011 holiday season they just released the Smooth CE 3.0DS Elliptical.  First appearance would suggest it is another budget compact crosstrainer.  First, it is by no means a typical compact elliptical, in particular it offers a feature you will not find on any other elliptical which makes it more of a hybrid.  Second, this is not a budget compact trainer.  The engineering and quality far surpass your typical compact elliptical.

Smooth CE 3.0DS Elliptical Features...

Quality Control — Most compact elliptical trainers are cheap knockouts that appeal to individuals who want to get back into shape shoestring budget.  These machines are primarily built in China where labor is cheap and quality is often lacking.  In fact, with many of these machines if there is a service issue its' cheaper to replace than repair.

The Smooth CE 3.0DS Elliptical is in a whole different category. It is built in Taiwan, where quality control and manufacturing are superior to Chinese made products.  In fact, most of the high-end elliptical trainers and treadmills are built in Taiwan.

Another indication of the quality is weight of the CE 3.0DS.  At 140 lbs. it is considerably heavier than the cheap compact ellipticals you find in the large retail stores.  That extra weight adds to the stability.  If you are overweight you'll be literally rockin on a lightweight model.

Elliptical Trainer & Stair Stepper — The CE 3.0DS Elliptical offers the ability to transform the machine from a crosstrainer to a stair stepper.  Of course, the advantage of an elliptical trainer is the low impact, upper and lower body workout.  Stair steppers proceeded ellipticals, and they still have a loyal following.  Their benefit is they offer an intense cardio workout, however, the climbing motion puts more strain on your joints in comparison to an elliptical stride.

So why would you want a hybrid crosstrainer?  First, you can work out different muscles by using the different functions.  Second, you can add variety to your exercise and make it more challenging. Monotony is probably one of the biggest deterrents to achieving fitness goals.

21" Elliptical Stride — The problem with most elliptical trainers is that they have a small bouncy stride.  Some have stride lengths 16" and less.  This makes them unsuitable to taller individuals.  The Smooth CE 3.0DS Elliptical is designed with a long 21" stride.  Your motion is more elliptical than oval, which makes the stride feel more natural.

Compact Design — Many elliptical trainers are space hogs.  For example, the Sole E95 is 82" long.  That is almost seven feet.  In comparison the CE 3.0DS Elliptical is only 57".  It is ideal for people who want a crosstrainer that doesn't occupy a good portion of their home or apartment.
 
Dual Color LCD Display — The display is much more attractive and eye appealing than your monotone displays found on most cheap models.

Heart Rate Control with Wireless Strap — Using your heart rate to determine your rate of exertion is one of the most efficient ways to exercise.  In fact, it is used by professional athletes.  The CE 3.0DS Elliptical comes with four heart rate control programs and they include the wireless strap.  In addition, you get six preset programs and the ability to create and save four custom programs.

2-Year Labor Warranty — You get a 2-years parts warranty, but more important is the 2-year labor coverage.  At this price range your will usually pay an additional $100 for the extra service.

Our Review - Smooth CE 3.0DS Elliptical Trainer

There are several reasons to consider the CE 3.0DS Elliptical.  It uses space efficiently, it is quality built and it doesn't cost and arm and a leg. However, having a machine that offers the benefit of a stair stepper and an elliptical trainer puts the CE 3.0DS in a class of its' own.

If you want to break out of the mold of your basic elliptical trainer and want a machine that offers a unique and challenging workout this crosstrainer should be on the top of your list.

Go to www.SmoothFitness.com to learn more!