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This elliptical trainer is in the lower price range at around $200. I chose it as I had not used an elliptical before and I didn't want to spend a lot of money on a machine I might not use very much if I didn't like it.

I have actually been very pleased with it. The way that ellipticals work means that you get a good cardio workout whilst also exercising your arms and shoulders at the same time. This helps you to get a more intensive workout in less time than, say, on an exercise bike. This machine is very quiet and smooth. It has 8 levels of resistance which are easily changed by turning a dial. I find that by changing the resistance during a workout it provides variation and I don't become bored.

There is also an easy to read console which comes on as soon as you step on the machine, (you don't even have to switch it on!), and switches off automatically when you stop exercising. It shows you the time, speed, distance and calories burned. A great feature of this is that the readings can be set to alternate as you are training so you don't need to do anything when you want to change from seeing your speed to seeing the calories used.

It is smooth in operation but I found that some of the bolts tend to work loose and need to be retightened from time to time. If you don't do this there can be a squeaking noise. Generally, however, it is a quite sturdy machine considering the price.

Another thing that I like about it is its size. Some of these machines are very bulky and take up a lot of room. The Body Rider, however, is very compact and easily fits into a space about 5 feet by 3 feet.

The machine requires some home assembly before you can use it. This takes time but the instructions are very clear and all the parts are clearly labeled so it isn't a difficult task and can be done by one person.

I had some concerns about buying an elliptical trainer that is in the budget price bracket. The Body Rider is quite sturdy, however, and feels like it should cost much more. All things considered I have been very pleased with it. It is inexpensive and does what it is designed to do without any of the unnecessary frills associated with the more expensive models.