Help with elliptical

Hey, I'm looking to get an elliptical machine very soon. I want it mostly for a quick 15 minutes or so in the morning and also because I think I can do this while looking at the television (rather than just laying on the couch) Also, it'd be good for the days when I can't make it out for my walk in the park. The more I think about it the more I want one. I'm a bit held back by budget, though, and I'd rather not have to wait for the amount of time it would take me to build up the cash to buy a good one locally or even online.

My solution is to get one through either HSN or QVC, which both offer payment by installments. My problem is I've read some stuff on both brands offered (HSN= ProForm, QVC=Reebok) and am not sure if I should spend the money. I'm looking in the $800-$1000 range, which is the highest they offer. I like the ProForm 980 CSE, but can't find much in the way of reviews or info on it. Also, the Reebok trainers seem pretty decent. I'm leaning towards the Reebok IFit Elliptical.

I know they are notorious for using cheap parts, but I've heard the Reebok machines at least are a bit more sturdy. I weigh around 300 lbs right now. I've been dieting and exercising for a bit now and have shed a few pounds and intend to shed more. The problem is the ProForm machines have a 300lbs limit, where the Reebok machines are from 325-350lbs. The weight limit issue is what leans me towards the Reebok machine. I'm posting four links to the four machines I'm considering. I like the fold up option of two of the machines.

Taking into consideration my current weight and the fact that I will be using it every day at least once if not twice a day (15 min in the morning, 30-60 in the evening) can someone assist me in choosing the better of the machines? I have already read plenty about the quality of the machines Icon puts out, but I won't be able to get one without this installment plan. So these are my options.

Also, if anyone has any suggestions of something else I might use, I'm all ears. I'm looking at ellipticals because I want something I can use while looking at the tv. I thought about a stationary bike, but I have lower back issues and just think it'd be uncomfortable. Treadmills are loud... Anyway, thanks for any help anyone can give me.

Here are the links to the four finalists:
 
Haven't you already decided? the reebok has the better weight range I thought you said.

Personally I'd not buy anything without testing it out first. I trialled a few gyms in feb. I found two gyms had elliptical machines which did not move up and down enough, just front and backwards. This gave me cramp and prevented me doing any real interval training as I was just not able to get my heart rate up anywhere near high enough on it as it was so akward to use. I actually decided against joining the gym as a result of these machines.

Maybe see if you can test some out first.
 
Thanks. Yeah, I was leaning towards the Reebok, but I think now I may like the Healthrider a little better. I just wish it folded up... Actually, I'm planning on trying some of the local stores to see if they stock any of these so that I can try them out.

I was just hoping someone on here had experience with these specific machines. As far as the weight limit, I wasn't sure how big of a deal that really was. I mean, if it says 300lbs, it should be able to handle much more. Considering I'm right at 300 and losing weight, I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem. Just made me wonder if the other machines were sturdier because they had a higher weight limit, or if maybe that was just a selling gimmick and they were the same...

Anyway, for the time being I'm hearing good things about the Healthrider which I only just realized was the brand and not the model... I thought the IFit and Healthrider were both Reebok. I do like what I read about Icon's IFit technology, but I don't guess it's really a deal breaker.

But, yeah, testing it out is good advice and I plan on trying to do that tomorrow if I can.
 
Haven't you already decided? the reebok has the better weight range I thought you said.

Personally I'd not buy anything without testing it out first. I trialled a few gyms in feb. I found two gyms had elliptical machines which did not move up and down enough, just front and backwards. This gave me cramp and prevented me doing any real interval training as I was just not able to get my heart rate up anywhere near high enough on it as it was so akward to use. I actually decided against joining the gym as a result of these machines.

Maybe see if you can test some out first.

Isn't the one that moves up and down a cross-trainer or what is the difference? So are you now not working out at all?
 
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