| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical Check Discounted Price | L:34" W:20" H:12" | - | Magnetic, 8 levels | Time, distance, speed, calories, odometer, SCAN | Parts: 3 years |
The FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical machine is pretty similar to the Stamina In-Motion E-1000 model, as it features almost the same construction and resistance system. However, one of the most important aspects regarding this elliptical trainer is that it’s an “under desk” model. In other words it’s not meant for using it while standing up. It’s a machine to be used strictly while sitting, as it’s not made to support the whole weight of the user.
Even though it’s a pretty basic fitness machine, there’s a lot to be said about it. Thus, in this review we’re going to cover as many aspects as possible about it. But even before that, there’s one aspect that requires clarification. This particular FitDesk elliptical model is the part number 3015-002.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 34L x 20W x 12H inches (86L x 51W x 31H cm)
- Assembled weight: 31 lbs (14 kg)
- Footplates: Ribbed, non-slip
- Resistance: Adjustable, magnetic
- Fitness meter: Included
- Warranty: Parts 3 years
Frame construction, footprint and parts
This elliptical trainer is built on a steel frame. However, it also integrates several parts made of heavy duty polymers, such as the pedals and the guards of the flywheel and resistance system. All steel parts are double-coated with anti-corrosive paint, white for the frame and front base, and black for the rear base plate.
The rear base plate integrated a rolling foot massager which helps soothe tired feet after a prolonged session of pedaling. It also doubles as a transport handle. The front base integrates small wheels, offering the possibility to roll it while holding the handle. However, this FitDesk elliptical is far from being heavy. It weighs only 31 lbs (14 kg) and transporting it shouldn’t be a problem for most users. The front base also features small, rubberized feet stabilizers, to protect your floor from damage, also supplying superior stability for the elliptical.
As opposed to the Stamina In-Motion elliptical models, this FitDesk elliptical features a larger footprint. It’s approx. 34″ (86 cm) long, 20″ (51 cm) wide, and reaches approx. 1′ (31 cm) in height with the fitness meter attached to it. However, the highest point of the pedals is 8″ (20 cm) from the floor level. This being said, this FitDesk elliptical can be used under desks with only 25″ (63 cm) of clearance underneath.
The pedals are made of heavy-duty nylon material. They’re long and wide enough to accommodate shoes of all sizes. They feature a ribbed surface to prevent feet from slipping. Their rear, inner edge and front have a “lip” of approx. 1″ (2.5 cm) high, to provide extra stability for your feet. Also, they integrate small, rubberized wheels, which glide on the rear plate providing a smooth motion.
Drive and resistance systems
The FitDesk Under Desk elliptical trainer features a manual magnetic resistance system. It consists of a small magnetic brake pad attached to a small lever, placed at the rear of the machine. There are 8 distinctive resistance levels specified on the lever. As you adjust resistance, the magnetic pad will move closer or farther in relation to the flywheel, thus generating more or less resistance. As a general idea, the lowest resistance setting is extremely light, while the highest setting offers quite a consistent workout. The resistance lever placement allows easy, hands-free tension adjustment.
Evidently, since it’s an elliptical trainer with magnetic resistance, its drive system is belt-powered. It also integrates a small, balanced flywheel, which generates a smooth and stable pedaling feel. Due to these aspects, the operation of this fitness machine is really quiet. Several users have compared it with the sound of a computer cooler, or electrical fan. Therefore, in case you’re wondering, you can definitely use it in an office booth, without bothering your co-workers.
Reverse pedaling is possible on this FitDesk elliptical. Even more, when pedaling in reverse, the meter will continue to track your statistics.
Fitness meter
The meter unit supplied with this machine is a basic one. It tracks time, speed, distance and calories burned, also featuring an odometer function which indicates the total distance
accumulated. Distance is indicated in miles, and speed in MPH. There’s also a SCAN function which rotates the aforementioned values, displaying each one of them on screen for 4 seconds.
The meter is easy to operate. It requires one AA battery which is not supplied. It features three buttons: MODE, SET and RESET. MODE is used to navigate through the values, or to enable / disable SCAN mode. SET is used to select one of the values in case you want to view it at all time, and RESET it’s pretty obvious, a function for resetting all the values to zero. The meter is automatically powered on when it detects pedal movement, and also automatically shuts off after 10 minutes of inactivity on the pedals.
Last but not least, the box includes a wire and a desk stand for the meter, so you can place it on your desk to easily view your progress. However, there’s also a small mount for the meter which connects directly to the frame of the machine.
Assembly and Maintenance
This under desk elliptical machine requires some assembly, but the whole task is far from being complicated. The “insides” of the machine are already assembled, encased by the protective shrouds and connected to the frame. All you need to attach are the pedals, front base, rear plate and the fitness meter. The whole task shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes, the tools are included, and the manual supplied will guide you step-by-step through the process.
When it comes to maintenance, the internal mechanism doesn’t require any, as all the internal parts come pre-lubricated from the factory. However, the wheels of the pedals may require lubrication from time to time.
The Pros
- Durable construction, high-quality internal parts;
- Sleek design;
- Can be used under a desk with a 25″ clearance;
- Non-slip, oversized pedals;
- Lightweight and portable;
- Adjustable magnetic resistance, with 8 levels available;
- Fitness monitor included;
- Quiet operation;
- Very easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- Resistance pad and joints may begin to squeak after a while. However, the problem is easily fixed with a little lubrication.
- Rather large footprint for an under desk elliptical, but still, it should fit under just about any desk with no problem.
Final Word
Like any under desk elliptical machine, this FitDesk model is made for light cardio training and for the toning of leg muscles. However, even though it’s not a machine for intensive cardio training, you can still burn up to 8-900 calories during your whole day of work, which can considerably contribute to your overall weight loss, fitness and well-being. Other than that, it’s a well constructed machine, comes with a decent warranty, and considering that it’s currently priced for less than $200, we can safely say that it offers excellent value for the price.