Yowza Fitness Captiva Elliptical Trainer Review
"Best New Elliptical - 2010"
 The Yowza Fitness Captiva elliptical trainer is their high end model. What makes this a unique cross trainer are two features - Variable Motion & Cardio Core Training. Both which can provide one of the best cross training workouts in the industry. Overall, this is a fairly heavy duty machine that can accommodate serious users.
Yowza Fitness is a relatively new company, however the manufacturer has been selling quality fitness equipment in the U.S. for a number of years. They are also a major player in Europe. Their machines have a reputation for being low maintenance and durable.
Note: As of 3/11/10 the Yowza Captiva Elliptical was selling for $1,999 with shipping. A good value. Go to www.YowzaFitness.com for the latest price. Includes a 2-year labor warranty.
Save an additional $100 by using coupon code "Yowzacap100" when you add the shipping details.
Yowza Fitness Captiva Elliptical Features...
Cardio Core Training Elliptical - The Cardio Core Training is a completely new concept, which you will not find on any other elliptical. The builders were looking for a way to both distinguish themselves from the competition, but also to improve the cross training design found in most elliptical trainers.
One of the so-called benefits of an elliptical trainer is the combination upper and lower body workout. As your lower body works the elliptical stride, your upper body is suppose to get resistance training by the back and forth motion of handlebars. At least that is the theory. In reality, most people who work out on an elliptical trainer tend to go through the motions with their upper body. Most of the resistance is absorbed by the leg muscles, while the arms are basically along for the ride. Consequently, there is virtually no toning to your upper body.
 Faced with this dilemma, the engineers at Yowza Fitness came up with the "Cardio Core Training" design. A crosstraining innovation that works your core muscles, also known as your abs. You have a tee-shape handlebar over the console that swings left and right with the motion of the pedals. It forces your body to constantly twist, and in the process work your abs. If you have ever done stomach crunches on the ground, the affect is similar.
Although I was only on this machine for a few minutes, it appears that it does a very good job of not only working and toning your lower body muscles, but also your Sartorius and your internal and external oblique's. I could also feel how the motion was stretching my back.
Variable Motion Elliptical - Most manufacturers are moving beyond the standard elliptical design with the fix motion, largely because the benefits these machines provide are limited. With the Captiva you get 12 motions that vary from 18" - 32". We're not talking about just 12 variable elliptical stride lengths, but variable motions designed to work different lower body muscles and improve your cardio exercise.
The first motion is an 18" relatively flat oval shape stride, where the peak is 2" higher than the bottom. It is more like a traditional elliptical stride. As you move up the motions your stride increases and you find your lifting your leg up higher towards the front of the stride. That is in comparison to a typical elliptical stride where you have to push down at the top of the stride to keep the motion going, thus putting pressure on your knees.
There are two benefits to the variable motion. First, it gives you the ability to work different lower body muscles. In the lower motions you tend to work your quads, while in the higher levels you work your hip flexors, lower back and hamstrings. The second benefit is you get an intense cardio workout. As you move up the motion levels your heart will start pounding. It is the kind of workout that serious athletes will appreciate.
Other Features
Eddy Current Braking System - I'm told that the system used in the Captiva is top of the line and is found on many of the high end and commercial elliptical trainers.
Heavy Flywheel - The flywheel is a hefty 43 lbs., giving it a very smooth feel. You can tell the difference when you start or stop - the process is gradual.
Sealed Bearings - All the joints have sealed bearing, in comparison to bushings. You would expect it in an elliptical at this price. Sealed bearings wear better and are quiet.
 Multicolor Backlit LCD Display - I see more and more manufacturers using this type of hi-res LCD display in comparison to an LED. It gives sharp and clear presentation of your feedback data.
3-Speed Fan - Not a costly add-on, but one that is very popular with customers. It gives relief by pointing the breeze directly at your core.
iPod Plug-in and Speakers - I listened to the sound and I would rate it above average for fitness equipment, but it was not up to the standard of my Subaru sound system. There is a slot where you can easily pop in your iPod.
SureFit Pedals - The pedals pivot with the elliptical motion, which significantly reduces any heal lift. In addition, you can actually push down on the pedal and it will give. It sits on bushings so like a treadmill it absorbs shock from the impact of pressing down on the pedal.
Our Review - Yowza Fitness Captiva Elliptical Trainer
The Yowza Captiva is one of the most innovative elliptical trainers to recently be released. With the Variable Motion and the Cardio Core Training, the Captiva takes cross training to a whole new level.
With the Yowza Captiva you have a crosstrainer that not only provides an intense cardio workout, but also works more muscle groups than potentially any other elliptical on the market. In particular, it targets your abs, and we all want firmer abs.
In testing the Captiva it seems very durable, solid and stable. In fact, it weighs a hefty 228 lbs. It comes with large wheels for moving, but this is the type of equipment you will probably want to leave in place.
In conclusion, I would suggest if you are looking for a heavy duty elliptical trainer that maximizes your results, this machine is a top contender.
Learn more at www.YowzaFitness.com.
|