Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer

The Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer has met with great success in the equipment market. In general, elliptical trainers are being embraced by consumers. These elliptical machines enable a great workout without the joint wear and tear that can be encountered on a treadmill. They tend to be more durable than treadmills, they offer an arms workout as well as a legs workout, and finally often take up less floor space than a treadmill.

When Schwinn designed the 430 Elliptical Trainer, they listened to consumers, and designed this elliptical machine with improved stability. The Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer uses the same platform as the 430, and therefore enjoys the 430’s concave wheel, full eighteen inch stride, articulated pedals, and over one hundred fifty pounds weight. The net effect of these features is a machine that is remarkably stable and smooth. It is a health club quality machine for the home.

If the 430 and the 431 share many design features, where do they diverge? The first difference that a value conscious shopper will discover is in price. The 430 can be had for around $600. The 431 can be had for just under $800. So what do you get for this extra $200?

First, the Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer has additional pre-programmed workouts. The 430 model comes with eight workouts, and the 431 better than doubles this, with nineteen workout programs. Three of these workouts are heart rate controlled, meaning that the Schwinn 431 will adjust the resistance based on the exerciser’s hear rate. Heart rate is measured by grasping and holding on to the stationary hand grips just below the control console.

Next, the control panel features a backlit monochrome LCD display, which makes it easier to read than the standard LCD display. The console itself also includes a fan and a holder for an MP3 player.

Finally, the service warranty on this elliptical machine is twice as long as the warranty of the 430. The 431’s warranty is six months, instead of the 430’s 90 days. Electronics are warranted for one year, parts are warranted for two years.

Visit an exercise equipment store and take a look at both. Ask if the lights can be dimmed, so you can see the difference in the backlit LCD display as compared to the regular display. This feature alone may well justify the extra price of the 431 elliptical machine. Also, consider an extended two year warranty. Elliptical trainers tend to hold up better than treadmills, however even with the warranty on parts and electronics a break after six months will still require some expense for repair.