Eclipse Ellipticals Review

Eclipse elliptical trainers by Fitness Quest, Inc. were introduced through televised infomercials. Today the machines can be purchased online, at major chain stores, and through catalogs. Eclipse ellipticals are relatively low priced, falling into the lower and middle price ranges. They are also relatively basic machines, but they tend to have better warranties than comparably priced ellipticals.

Ohio-based Fitness Quest also distributes other brands of fitness products such as Ab Lounge, Easy Shaper, and New Balance. Their Eclipse Ellipticals are made in the USA.

Brand Features of Eclipse Ellipticals

Some features common to all Eclipse elliptical machines include:

• Sturdy construction – Fitness Quest and its customers seem to agree that Eclipse ellipticals are durable machines. This is despite the machines’ relatively small size and low price tags.

• Smooth glide – Elliptical trainers are an especially good investment for people with joint problems, and Eclipse gets positive reviews from this group of exercisers.  

• Good warranty – Eclipse ellipticals have a one-year warranty, which isn’t very long but beats those of other budget machines.

• Shorter stride – Eclipse elliptical machines are best for small users. A 15” stride length is offered on the 1100HRA, the 2100, and the 4100 HRA. If you’re especially short though, you might avoid the 4100; the cross-training arm grips are placed rather high.

• Lightweight – When it comes to fitness machines, a light weight is not necessarily ideal. Eclipse ellipticals weigh less than 100 pounds each, so they may pose stability problems for heavy exercisers. On the other hand, the machines can be moved rather easily for storage.

• Extras – Early models of Eclipse ellipticals lacked extras such as heart rate monitors and various built-in programs, but newer models have incorporated these features. For instance, the Eclipse 1100 HRA has pulse sensors built into the handles, and the 2100 design is loaded with ten workout programs.

Overall Rating for Eclipse Ellipticals

The newer models of Eclipse elliptical trainers may be good budget buys for shorter, lightweight people. These durable machines include an important basic – a smooth glide – and extras such as program variety, pulse rate sensors, reading racks, and drink holders. However, many consumers have complained that the 1100HRA is noisy. For comparison – and especially if you require a longer stride — consider some other budget fitness brands such as ProForm or Weslo.