Elliptical cross trainers are grouped into two types, depending on the flywheel (the rounded part of the machine) placement. Those that have the flywheel at the back or rear, an example would be the Precor EFX 576i elliptical trainer or a Life Fitness 95xi elliptical trainer and those that have it at the front. The Precor AMT 100i elliptical trainer is a front powered system. The Center Drive 817e elliptical trainer cannot be classified under either because its power comes from the center, a center drive elliptical machine.

The most recent advancement in health and fitness engineering is the Center drive approach. Why do people prefer this setup? The flywheel not only manages the resistance in a machine, it is also the source of the impetus and motion users feel. This technology does not only have one but two flywheels in the center.

The Center Drive 817e is able to better deliver more natural running and walking movements, thanks to the two flywheels at the sides instead of the usual front or back. The user´s posture is more correct ergonomically when compared to a front or back wheel elliptical. Front or back flywheel ellipticals compel the user to lean backwards or forwards, there is therefore the danger of hip, neck and back stress.

The Center Drive 817e elliptical trainer optimizes ones balance because the user´s core weight is centered. This system is more natural. Lastly the dual axle center drive system is able to mimic a human´s natural stride length best.

Price: $1,927.00