You may recognize the Precor brand name. It’s well-known in the fitness world. And they sell more than one model of elliptical trainer. We reviewed two popular models below to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
Precor EFX 221 Energy Series Elliptical Cross Trainer
Since Precor released their first elliptical over two decades ago, they have been one of the most popular brands for both commercial and home gyms. The EFX 221 continues the tradition with many features that appeal to owners who want to become more fit.
For example, the EFX 221 offers sixteen levels of increasing resistance to keep you challenged. There are also ten workout programs ready to use. Plus, you can store profiles for two separate users.
While the handlebars are stationary on the EFX 221, this allows you to focus on toning your lower body and cardiovascular system. This is also easier than managing movable handlebars, especially if you’re new to elliptical or have problems with maintaining your balance.
If you want to raise the level of difficulty to burn more calories and strengthen your muscles, the Precor EFX 221 lets you adjust the ramp angle manually. There are three different positions you can select, from 15 to 25 degrees.
Also, the EFX 221 is suited to multiple users of different heights. This is because you can adjust the stride length. It’s also handy if you prefer to walk or step instead of run on the elliptical.
Next, let’s focus on the preset programs. There are ones that target weight loss, your glute muscles, and your cardiovascular health. You can build your stamina with two different interval workouts, too. Simply grasp the sensors in the handles to discover your pulse rate.
While you exercise, the LCD in the console shows you metrics like your target heart rate, calories burned, and time remaining. There is a place to hold a water bottle or even a TV remote. And although a chest strap is not included, you can link your own. Just check with Precor for details on compatible brands.
Finally, if you find the Precor EFX 221 exciting, but want to focus on your core and upper body too, take a look at the EFX 222 described below.
More features of the Precor EFX 221 elliptical:
- Lifetime warranty on the frame, 5-years on parts, 3-years on the console, and 1-year labor
Precor EFX 222 Energy Series Elliptical Cross Trainer
Why might you choose the Precor EFX 222 instead of the 221? The main difference between them is the handlebars. The EFX 222 has both stationary and moving handlebars. That way you can focus on only your lower body, or involve your upper body in the workout too. Using the moving handles increases your core strength as well.
Other than this single dissimilarity, the EFX 222 offers all the other features found on the EFX 221. You’ll have access to ten training programs for specific goals like weight loss and aerobic fitness. And you can track essential data like your heart rate, calories burned, and more by viewing them on the LED screen.
Homes with more than one user appreciate the fact that the EFX 222 can store two user profiles, so no one needs to enter their data every time they exercise. The elliptical uses your age and weight to calculate the calories you burn and your target heart rate zones.
Finally, you can raise the level of resistance and the amount of incline to increase the challenge. The CrossRamp design also lets you adjust the stride length to suit.
More features of the Precor EFX 221 elliptical:
- Lifetime warranty on the frame, 5-years on parts, 3-years on the console, and 1-year labor
Recommendation
The only difference between the EFX 221 and the EFX 222 will make it easier to choose between them. If you want to focus on just your cardiovascular fitness and your lower body, get the EFX 221. It has only fixed handlebars.
Otherwise, the EFX 222 gives you the flexibility to include your upper body and core in the workout because it has both fixed and moving handles.
Click here to purchase Precor EFX 221 on Amazon.com!