Ironman 530e Elliptical

Strengths:

High User Weight - One sign of high stability is a high user weight capacity. Considering that most ellipticals at this price point only offer you a 275 pound or below user weight capacity the Ironman 530's weight capacity of 300 pounds is superior.

Magnetic Resistance - Magnetic resistance uses magnetic pull to create the resistance in your workout. This also makes for a very quiet workout. With 16 resistance levels including forward and back motions, you can add plenty of challenge to your workout.

17.5" Stride - This is a longer stride than many department store models and helps to give your leg muscles a better, fuller workout. While die-hards and taller users may still prefer a 20" stride, this one is still pretty good for an economy elliptical.

Positive User Reviews - Users at Amazon rate the 530e pretty well - as of this writing the average rating was 4 out of 5 stars. Users loved the fact that the units were quiet and that they were easy to assemble.

Weaknesses:

Obviously the main weakness here is the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by Keys Fitness. While this doesn't affect the quality of the ellipticals already on the market, it does pose some serious problems with servicing.

We would not recommend any of the Keys products - including Ironman ellipticals at this time because of this. Other recommended brand alternatives would be Nordic track and Sole.

Conclusion: Not Recommended

Although the Ironman 530e is a decent buy, due to the bankruptcy issues with Keys Fitness, we would probably stay away from this elliptical.

For similarly priced ellipticals, you may want to check out the Nordic track brand.

The Ironman 530e elliptical trainer is one of the most popular Ironman elliptical trainers currently on the market. Plus it's affordable if you're on a budget.

Ironman elliptical trainers are manufactured by Keys Fitness - a name that also manufactures brands like Keys Fitness, Alliance and Health Trainer.

**Note: Keys Fitness has recently filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy which could affect future servicing issues. As a result, we do not recommend this elliptical.

Alternatives: Nordic track or Schwinn

Features:

Price: $799

Stride Length: 17.5"

Resistance Type: Magnetic

Resistance Levels: 16

Workout Programs: 12

Upper Body Arms: Yes

Heart Rate Monitor: EKG Pulse Grip

Water Bottle Holder: Yes

User Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 1 year parts