I am considering purchasing an Elliptical trainer and would like to solicit advice from members here on which machine they would recommend. Ideally the machine would have a Heart Rate mode, i.e.: I would set in a target heart rate (say between 134 - 150) and the machine would automatically adjust the incline/resistance depending on where my actual heart rate was - if I fall below the range it ramps up intensity, if I go above it, it ramps it down, all automatically. Does anyone here have any suggestions/experiences/comments?
Actually there are several models out there that adjust resistance based on heart rate. Check out Octanefitness.com, Visionfitness.com. These site have a dealer location finder so that you can go out and try one before you buy.
XXL, sorry for intruding on your post, but on a related note, can anyone offer advice on whether an eliptical machine can be used periodically as a replacement for running? I go through periods where the pounding of running creates too much lower back pain for me, therefore limiting my training. I have been debating make 1-2 of my weekly runs, the shorter ones, on an eliptical. Any other thoughts would be greatly appreciated.