The Spirit EL355 elliptical is an upgrade to the entry-level EL255 in the following ways: it has a longer stride (20” vs. 18”); a heavier flywheel; and two heart rate control programs. This machine also has a slightly longer parts warranty.
Elliptical Hits: Better Features of the Spirit EL355
- 20” stride – The 20” stride is long enough for the majority of adults.
- Good flywheel – The elliptical’s 21-pound flywheel supports a smooth ride.
- Heart rate monitor – Grip pulse sensors are built into the handlebars and can be used with two heart rate workouts.
- Sound system – Users can attach an MP3 player and hear their music through the elliptical’s speaker.
- Good warranty – Spirit customers get a lifetime warranty on the frame and brake plus three years of coverage on other parts. The company pays labor expenses for the first year.
Elliptical Misses: Why to Pass on the Spirit EL355
- Limited programming – This entry-level elliptical trainer only has seven preset workouts and space for two user-designed workouts. Advanced Spirit elliptical machines, such as the EL-7, have more programs.
Overall Rating for the Spirit EL355 Elliptical
The Spirit EL355 is noticeably an upgrade to the EL255, weighing a bit more and suiting taller users. Still, it’s a lackluster trainer. By upgrading to the EL555, customers get a much heavier flywheel and an incline to help target different muscle groups.
Additionally, Spirit’s EL7 is popular for its 20 built-in programs.
