| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Apps | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ProForm RE 7.0 Check Discounted Price | L:58.6" W:26.3" H:62.6" | 250 lbs | Eddy current, 14 levels | 14 | Frame: 5 years Parts: 90 days Labor: 90 days |
Although the 7.0 RE elliptical is one of the older models from ProForm, it’s still available. Since this model’s release many other models have been also released, so currently this particular elliptical machine is available for substantial discounts.
It’s an entry level elliptical machine, similar in design with the Kettler Axos Cross P, featuring a rear drive. It’s designed for light to medium cardio workouts, doesn’t offer a full array of “belts and whistles”, but still, it’s a decent elliptical trainer.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 58.6L x 26.3W x 62.6H inches (149L x 67W x 159H cm)
- Assembled weight: 145 lbs (66 kg)
- Flywheel weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
- Weight limit: 250 lbs (113.3 kg)
- Stride: 18 inches (45.7 cm)
- Incline: No
- Handlebars: Both mobile and fixed (with pulse sensors)
- Resistance system: Eddy current, 14 levels
- Console: 14 workout programs
- Warranty: Frame 5 years / Parts 90 days / Labor 90 days
Frame construction
This elliptical machine features a 1-piece frame, meaning that its chassis consists of one, single bar. This means the machine has a better overall stability, as many fitness machines with a 2-piece frame may wobble a bit where the pieces connect. Given the machine’s 
weight it’s pretty obvious that most of its frame parts are steel made. Steel parts are coated with anti-corrosive paint, white color for the frame parts, black color for the arms and footrests bars.
There are several plastic parts within the frame construction as well. However, most of them have only a protective or cosmetic role. Among these we can mention the shrouds for the machine’s drive system, console mast joint cover, bases caps, and arm pivot covers.
The machine rests on five adjustable stabilizers, two on each base, and one on the main bar of the frame. Also, the front base features transport wheels which ease the relocation of the machine, when it’s fully assembled.
This trainer doesn’t have a folding design. However, it has a pretty small footprint for an elliptical. It’s 58.6″ (149 cm) long, and 26.3″ (67 cm) wide, quite a bit smaller length wise than other ellipticals, such as the Sole E55, or NordicTrack C 7.5.
Stride and step-up height
The ProForm 7.0 RE elliptical features a medium length stride, of 18″ (approx. 46 cm). This indicates that it’s a machine for users between 5’0″ and 6’00” (152 – 183 cm). Taller users may consider this stride length a bit short for their needs, thus in case you’re taller, a better alternative would be the Schwinn 430, for example.
The distance between the lowest pedal and the floor, in other words the step-up height, is approx. 6″ (15 cm). This elliptical features a step-through design, therefore it shouldn’t be difficult to step on and step down, even for injury recovering users.
On the other hand, the distance between the highest pedal and the floor level is approx 16″ (41 cm). Therefore, to avoid any ceiling height issues, make sure you add at least 16″ to your own height and compare it with the ceiling height in the room where you’ll be using it, before commiting to this elliptical.
Drive and resistance
This elliptical machine features a quiet and smooth belt drive, using a stretch resistant, industrial grade v-belt. Its flywheel isn’t extremely heavy, but at 10 lbs (4.5 kg) it supplies more than enough consistence to the pedaling motion. The machine’s pulley is quite wide, approx. 16″ (41 cm) in diameter, rendering the motion more ample. 
The ProForm 7.0 RE uses durable, polyurethane pedals, which are long and wide enough to accommodate athletic shoes of all sizes. The pedals are also cushioned, reducing the impact on the ankles, and promoting a more natural motion.
This trainer is equipped with both mobile and fixed handlebars. Both feature rubber-foam grips to absorb perspiration, prevent the formation of blisters due to prolonged workouts, and of course, for more comfort. The fixed grips also integrate stainless steel pulse sensors.
Pedaling in reverse is possible on this machine, aspect which expands the workout possibilities. Also, when pedaling backwards, the metrics on the control unit’s display, such as speed, distance etc, will still be tracked.
The ProForm 7.0 RE elliptical trainer features an eddy current mechanism, involving a magnetic flywheel and a small servo motor. This being said, the resistance is digitally controlled from the console. Each resistance setting brings a specific adjustment to the magnets’ pull, generating more or less drag.
The machine offers 14 levels or resistance, the low settings are quite light, great for users with disabilities or for users who require rehabilitation exercise. The top resistance settings on the other hand, promote quite a consistent cardio.
Unlike other ellipticals with an eddy current brake mechanism, such as the Nautilus E616, or Schwinn 470, which require to be connected to a power circuit to function, this ProForm elliptical uses batteries to power the console, and the resistance motor. It requires 4 D-type batteries, which are not included.
Console
The console unit supplied with this ProForm elliptical machine has quite a bit more to offer than the average fitness meter. To begin with, it features a 4″ diagonal, blue LED backlit display, with big digits, quite easy to read even in poor lighting conditions. The 
monitor can track speed, distance, time, calories and pulse. It also indicates the machine’s current resistance setting, while for distance there is an option which displays it as a track, (1/4 miles), indicating your progress on the current track and how many tracks you have completed during your workout.
The console unit offers 14 workout programs, 7 for weight loss, and 7 for performance. Each workout program will automatically adjust the resistance of the machine. Of course, there’s also the manual mode, the program for free pedaling, which gives you the possibility to adjust resistance as you wish, via the – / + keys.
The console also integrates a sound system, consisting of two speakers, compatible with iPods and basically most MP3 players, smartphones or tablets. The sound rendered by these speakers is not bad, most definitely superior to the speakers of a phone for example, but evidently, doesn’t offer the quality of a dedicated sound system with a subwoofer and other specific elements. The sound volume can be controlled from the console, which offers two keys for it.
There is no tablet tray on the console. However, the lower part, just under the MP3 player output, features a small lip, which can host your MP3 device. Also, there is an accessory tray / bottle holder on the console mast, right under the console, so with a long enough cable you can fit your phone or MP3 device there.
Last but not least, the console is not telemetry enabled. In other words it cannot read pulse via chest strap transmitters. To benefit from a pulse reading, you must hold onto the sensors on the fixed handlebars of the machine.
Assembly and Maintenance
This elliptical trainer requires some assembly, which may take up to 1.5 – 2 hours, due to the many parts, screws and bolts that require attachment. But as a general idea, the whole process is quite straightforward. Plus, the hard copy of the user’s manual that you will get with the machine will guide you step-by-step through it. You basically need to attach the bases, the console mast and console to the main frame connecting the wires, and then the arms and pedals, plus the cosmetic plastic covers. Some hex keys are supplied for assembly, but you’ll need your own Phillips screwdriver and possibly a rubber mallet.
The machine is rather heavy, so assembly might require two people. To prevent joints from developing squeaking noises later on, it’s best to grease them before assembly. Also, to prevent screws from loosening due to vibration, it’s best to use a fastener agent, such as Loctite for example.
When it comes to maintenance, the machine’s internal components shouldn’t require any, as they’re pre-lubricated with high-grade lubricants. Basically, the maintenance of this ProForm elliptical requires keeping the machine dust-free, tightening the screws from time to time, and greasing the joints if they develop any squeaking.
The Pros
- Solid construction, high stability;
- Fixed and mobile handlebars;
- Pedals with cushioning;
- EKG pulse sensors built-in the fixed handlebars.
- Easy-to-use console unit;
- Sound system and accessory tray included;
- 14 levels of eddy current resistance;
- 14 workout programs;
- Quiet machine;
- Easy to put together;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- Batteries for the console not included;
- No tablet holder;
- No cooling fan.
Summary
The ProForm 7.0 RE elliptical is a fitness machine for light to medium cardio, but can also help you lose weight if you’re using the weight loss programs, or the top resistance settings. It’s also a machine great for stamina building, muscle toning, interval and recovery training. It offers a bit more than the basic range of features, as it has 14 workout programs, and built-in speakers. All in all, it comes with an excellent price / quality ratio, and since it’s an older ProForm elliptical, it’s currently available for a consistent discount.