The ProForm 400 LE elliptical is best for smaller exercisers; it has an 18” stride and a 250-pound capacity. Special features include iPod compatibility and iFit workout technology.
Elliptical Hits: What You Get with the 400 LE
- 18” stride – This stride is best for many shorter to average-height adults.
- Upper body workout – Movable handlebars help provide a more intense and full-body cardio workout.
- iFit – The 400 LE elliptical includes an iFit card reader. iFit® Workout Cards, which are sold separately, are available in four categories — Weight Loss, Wellness, Circuit Training, and Performance – and include eight weeks of personal training each.
- Sound system – ProForm’s 400 LE includes an MP3 player port and speaker system.
- Heart rate monitor – A dual grip heart rate monitor is included.
- Extras – A console fan and water bottle holder are small but appreciated extras.
- Compact size – The 400LE measures approximately 2’x5’, so it’s appropriately sized for a home gym.
Elliptical Misses: Why to Skip the 400 LE
- Warranty – This machine has an especially poor warranty: just 90 days on parts and labor plus five years on the frame.
- Poor quality – Customers complain that the machine is composed of inferior parts that break down quickly.
- Resistance – The 400LE only offers ten resistance levels. Sixteen or twenty levels is the norm.
- Lack of programming – Owners of the 400LE are dependent upon iFit cards – sold separately – if they want guided workouts. Preset workouts aren’t built into the system.
Overall Rating for the ProForm 400 LE Elliptical
The 400 LE has an even shorter warranty than other ProForm ellipticals, such as the 890E with adjustable stride. Furthermore, with just ten resistance levels it can quickly become mastered. That makes it difficult to recommend. The odds are good that spending a bit more up front will pay off in the long run – or even after 90 days. For comparison, check out the ProForm 890E or consider cross trainers with longer warranties from brands such as Sole and Schwinn.
