| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Fitness meter | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gazelle Edge Check Discounted Price | L:43" W:29.25" H:53.75" | 250 lbs | No | Basic | 1 year limited |
Elliptical machines come in many shapes and sizes. From the huge, commercial grade models, such as the Sole E95, to the “under-desk”, such as Stamina In-Motion. On the other hand, there are fitness machines that offer a full range gliding motion, very similar to an elliptical. These are called “gliders” or “elliptical gliders”. Some of these models are offered by Gazelle.
The Edge model is the most basic machine offered by Gazelle. But even though it offers a limited range of features, there’s quite a lot to be said about it. Therefore, in this review we’ll try to cover in detail, as many aspects as possible about the Gazelle Edge model.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 43L x 29.25W x 53.75H inches (109.2L x 74.2W x 136.5H cm)
- Assembled weight: 45 lbs (20.4 kg)
- Weight limit: 250 lbs (113.3 kg)
- Stride: Full range
- Incline: No
- Resistance: No
- Fitness meter: Included
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame
To begin with, the frame of this machine is made of steel tubing, 1.5″ in diameter, with a construction solid enough to support users up to 250 lbs (113 kg). All steel parts are coated with anti-corrosive silver paint. Of course, the machine includes several non-metallic parts, such as the joint covers, the base stabilizers and the footrests.
The machine’s footrests are actually made of hard polyurethane material, with a non-slip 
surface. They’re wide and long enough to accommodate sports shoes of all sizes, and they also feature a lip at the front, meant to enhance the foot’s stability. The footrest bars attach to the top-rear part of the frame via steel cables. Also, in case you’re wondering, the footrests stand approx. 6″ (15 cm) above floor level.
Since it doesn’t integrate a flywheel, or a drive mechanism like other machines, this Gazelle glider is pretty light, with a weight of 45 lbs (20.4 kg) which makes it easy to assemble and handle. It also doesn’t have a large footprint. At least it’s far less longer than a rear drive elliptical, such as the ProForm 735, for example. It takes only 43″L x 29.25″W (109 x 74 cm). However, given the fact that its arm bars and footrest bars extend forward and backward when the machine is in use, it does require at least 3′ (92 cm) of clearance at the rear and at the front.
One of the most important aspects to be mentioned regarding the frame of this Gazelle glider elliptical, is its foldability. The frame features an “X” design, and its two main parts fold together at the middle. Also, the footrests fold up, towards the arm bars, leaving the machine at a depth of 8.5″ (22 cm). This being said, you can fold the machine up, and store it under a bed with a clearance of over 9″ (23 cm) underneath.
One last aspect that remains to be covered here, regards the machine’s arm bars. They’re finished with pretty long grips, covered by rubber foam material, for maximum comfort. However, this glider can also be used without holding the arm bar grips. You can rest your hands for equilibrium on the the upper front joints of the frame.
Stride
The main difference between a Gazelle machine and any elliptical trainer is the stride motion. First of all, on an elliptical trainer, your feet cover a full ellipse, approximating the natural motion of your body during a run or a walk. On this glider, the motion covers only the bottom part of the ellipse. Evidently, this has an impact on your workout. Since your legs and feet basically remain in a completely extended position, a workout on this machine will be less consistent for the leg muscle groups. However, the cardio workout is still pretty consistent, as the motion engages multiple groups of muscles all over your body. On top of that, since it gives you the possibility to extend stride at maximum, it helps with maintaining a healthy ligament elasticity.
On the other hand, as opposed to the stride offered by most ellipticals, the length of the stride in the Gazelle Edge machine is variable. For example, the Schwinn 430 offers a flat 20″ stride, while on this Gazelle exerciser you can basically adapt the stride length to your own pace, and also vary its length if you want a more consistent workout. This being said, there’s virtually no inseam limit for this machine.
Drive and resistance
Since this gliding exerciser doesn’t use a flywheel, crank system, or motor for resistance adjustment, there’s not much to be said about its drive system. There is though, one aspect that requires mentioning. All its joints integrate industrial-grade, sealed ball bearings, highly resistant to wear and tear, facilitating a smooth gliding motion.
As we’ve mentioned above, this glider does not have any resistance adjustment system. However, you can still add some intensity to your workouts by leaning forward or backward.
Fitness meter
The fitness meter supplied with the Gazelle Edge glider is a basic one. But nonetheless, it 
measures time, distance, speed and calories burned. It also has a SCAN function that rotates all these values indicating each one for several seconds, then moving to the next. You can also lock on screen any of these values to be shown at all time, if you want.
The meter unit is easy to use. It only has one button that covers all its functions. It uses two AAA-type batteries, which are included. The machines doesn’t have any pulse sensors, and the meter cannot track pulse.
Assembly and Maintenance
The assembly of this exerciser is far from being difficult. The joints of the main frame pieces, as well as the pedals and the arms of the machine, are already connected. You will have to connect the bases of the machine, add their stabilizers, connect the main axle and the cables. The whole operation shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes.
Maintenance doesn’t require much. However, lubrication of the joints may be required from time to time.
The Pros
- Solid, thick steel frame;
- Folding design;
- Quiet operation, great for apartment use;
- Variable stride, easy to adapt to the user’s motion;
- Extra-wide, non-slip footrests;
- Excellent machine for cardio workouts;
- Fitness meter included;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No adjustable stabilizers. So, in case of uneven flooring, you may have to place it on a mat or rug, to achieve maximum stability;
- Joints may begin to squeak after a while. However, this problem is easily fixed with some lubricant.
Summary
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to an elliptical machine, the Gazelle Edge glider is definitely one to put on your list. Even though it’s a glider and doesn’t cover the full elliptical motion, it does offer a lot of movement freedom, as opposed to ellipticals. It offers excellent cardio workout possibilities, helps you tone muscles and lose weight. It’s an excellent machine for small apartments as it has a folding frame, fitting in small, narrow places. And finally, it offers great value for the price.