The ProForm One-Step SpaceSaver 500 is a low-cost elliptical with an 18” maximum stride. The StrideSelect feature gives the option of using two shorter strides as well. This elliptical does not include movable handlebars.
Elliptical Hits: What You Get with the ProForm SpaceSaver 500 Cross Trainer
- Preset workouts – Six preset workouts and four weight loss programs are included.
- Three-position stride – A three-position adjustable stride helps people target different muscle groups. However, the maximum stride of this machine – 18” – is too short for most users. The three positions don’t offer a a true elliptical stride for taller people and make the machine feel more like a stairclimber.
- Heart rate monitor – Grip pulse sensors are built into the handlebars.
Elliptical Misses of the ProForm One-Step 500 Elliptical
- No cross training – Most elliptical trainers have movable handlebars. By using upper-body workout bars on an elliptical machine, people can double calorie expenditure and tone their arms, chest, back, and torso while also exercising the lower body.
- Resistance – The ProForm SpaceSaver only offers ten resistance levels. Sixteen or twenty levels is the norm on home ellipticals.
- Low capacity – The One-Step SpaceSaver 500 has an advertised 250-pound user weight capacity.
- Warranty – This machine has a poor warranty for its price: just a year on parts and labor. The frame is guaranteed for 10 years.
Overall Rating for the ProForm One-Step SpaceSaver 500 Elliptical with StrideSelect
The One-Step SpaceSaver 500 has a sleek, attractive design that fits smaller workout areas. Other than that, it doesn’t have much to offer – and plenty of other compact ellipticals are available. Drawbacks of this machine include its lack of a cross training option, its short stride, and a short warranty.
A better option from ProForm is the 890E. It has an adjustable 18”-20” stride plus cross training and iFit workouts. The Diamondback 900Er is also a compact elliptical that offers good value.
