Strengths:
Incline (Motorized Power Ramp) - Incline (not the same as resistance) allows you to automatically increase your workout slope up to 30 degrees and work different muscle groups to burn the maximum amount of calories.
Incline is a feature that isn't found on most elliptical trainers (unless you want to spend $2800+ on a Precor) so it's a great feature on the Reebok 1000 ZX.
18 Inch Stride Length - Many cheaper ellipticals offer stride lengths of only 14 or 16 inches. The larger stride length ensures you work the full range of leg muscles and burn maximum calories. This longer stride length is also appreciated by taller users or those with longer legs.
Folding - While many treadmills fold up, there are very few elliptical trainers that fold. If you're short on space, you can easily fold the Reebok 1000 elliptical up and move it out of the way.
Quick Target Toning - This is a very cool feature that lets you target specific problem areas. You choose which muscle group to focus on and the elliptical will alter the incline and resistance of your machine to target that area.
Intermix Acoustics™ Sound System with Music Port - You can plug your iPod or MP3 player into the built-in audio jack and listen to your favorite music or audiobooks while you workout. This is another popular feature that can make your workouts more enjoyable.
20 Personal Trainer Workouts and 2 Customizable Programs - This elliptical gives you 20 different Personal Trainer workouts that automatically adjust the resistance of the machine to focus on aerobic, weight loss, and performance goals. You also get 2 customizable workouts where you can create your own workouts and save them.
Weaknesses:
We would have liked to see a longer parts warranty on the Reebok 1000 ZX elliptical (parts and labor are covered for 1 year). However at this price point, many warranties are very similar (or even less) than this.
Summary: Highly Recommended
Although we haven't been overly enthusiastic about Reebok ellipticals in the past, the Reebok 1000 ZX elliptical is worth looking at. ICON has put a lot of higher end features into it like an iPod music port, 30 degree power incline, Quick Target Toning, 20 personal trainer workouts and folding ability.
This elliptical is actually pretty much the same machine as the highly popular Nordic Track 990 (which was given a 'Best Buy' from a leading consumer magazine). This makes sense since ICON manufactures both brands.
Bottom Line: Good value for under $1000.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Reebok 1000 ZX elliptical direct through the ICON closeout store. You can often also save on shipping and sales tax.
Reebok is owned and manufactured by ICON Health and Fitness, one of the largest fitness equipment manufacturers in the world. They also own the Nordic Track, Proform and Epic names.
The Reebok 1000 ZX has a few features that until now, you could only find in popular Nordic Track and Proform models. You get a 30 degree power incline, folding ability and Target Toning program to tone specific muscle groups.
Is it a good value for you? Here's a review of the Reebok 1000 ZX to help you decide
Features:
Price: $999
Stride Length: 18"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 15
Built In Workout Programs: 20
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 1 year Parts & Labor