Choosing the ideal elliptical for your home gym can be a challenging task, particularly when considering high-end brands like Matrix. With a range of models offering state-of-the-art technology, design, and features, your investment in a Matrix elliptical should be carefully considered.
Matrix ellipticals are known for their commercial-grade quality, catering to individuals looking for gym-like performance in the comfort of their own home. With a variety of options, console choices, and advanced fitness tracking capabilities, Matrix ellipticals bring value to your workout experience while maintaining optimal performance and durability.
Key Takeaways
- Matrix ellipticals offer commercial-grade quality for residential use.
- Numerous models provide various console options, advanced fitness tracking, and entertainment features.
- Pricing and investment should be considered in comparison to other brands and your fitness goals.
Table of Contents
- Matrix Elliptical Models
- Matrix Fitness E30 Elliptical Trainer
- Matrix Fitness E50 Elliptical Trainer
- Matrix Fitness A30 Ascent Trainer
- Key Features and Benefits
- Console Options
- Entertainment and Connectivity
- Advanced Fitness Tracking
- Design and Comfort
- Pricing and Investment
- Installation and Assembly
- Matrix Elliptical Alternatives for Your Home Gym
- NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical
- Sole Fitness E95
- Comparison with Other Brands
- Why You Should Buy a Matrix Elliptical:
- Why You Should Not Buy a Matrix Elliptical:
- Final Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions
Matrix Elliptical Models
E30 Elliptical
The E30 Elliptical is one of the compact models in Matrix’s lineup, with a footprint measuring just under 5 feet long and 2½ feet wide. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller spaces without compromising on quality. You’ll find that its Suspension Elliptical Technology reduces noise and friction for a smooth, consistent ellipse. The E30 model provides a 20-inch stride, which is suitable for most users and delivers a comfortable, natural movement experience.
Matrix Fitness E30 Elliptical Trainer
- Suspension Elliptical™ Technology
- Compact Design, Maximum Comfort
- Netflix, YouTube, Spotify
- 20 electronic resistance settings
- WiFi, Bluetooth connectivity, web browsing capabilities
E50 Elliptical
Next up is the E50 Elliptical, a premium model in the Matrix E-series. This elliptical comes with upgraded features, such as more resistance levels, improved handlebars, and a longer warranty compared to the E30 model. One of the standout features of the E50 is the Exact Force Induction Brake, which offers instant resistance changes, giving you a more dynamic and challenging workout. Like the E30, the E50 also has a compact frame perfect for home use, while maintaining the same 20-inch stride for comfortable movement.
Matrix Fitness E50 Elliptical Trainer
- 30 electronic resistance settings
- E50’s industry-leading compact design fits perfectly in your home
- WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth HR and USB port
- Automatic workout calendar
- Create custom workouts based on your personal goals
- Interactive training with HD touchscreen display console featuring WiFi, Bluetooth and HDMI port
A30 Ascent Trainer
The A30 Ascent Trainer is another option in Matrix’s elliptical lineup. Ascent Trainers differ from standard ellipticals by providing an incline feature that allows you to simulate hill climbs and target different muscle groups. The A30 offers various incline levels, adding versatility to your workouts and making it a great investment for users seeking a more challenging and varied exercise experience. Although it has a slightly larger footprint than the E30 and E50 models, the A30 still offers the same gym-quality build and reliable performance you can expect from Matrix ellipticals.
Matrix Fitness A30 Ascent Trainer
- Connect your Ascent Trainer to your favorite fitness apps, bring life and competition to your routine
- 16” HD touchscreen console
- HDMI to stream your favourite content during workouts
- 5-WATT SPEAKERS
- WORKOUT PROGRAMS
In summary, the Matrix E30, E50, and A30 ellipticals cater to different preferences and needs, but all provide a reliable and smooth workout experience. Consider your available space, desired resistance levels, and interest in incline options when choosing the model that best fits your needs.
Key Features and Benefits
Matrix ellipticals offer an array of features and benefits, making them an appealing option for those interested in low-impact exercises. One of their main advantages is the suspension elliptical technology which eliminates the need for traditional tracks. This innovative design promotes a smoother, more natural movement during your workout.
Equipped with 20 electronic resistance settings, Matrix ellipticals cater to a wide range of fitness levels. You have the flexibility to challenge yourself by increasing the resistance as your fitness improves. The dual-action handlebars provide a choice for either a full-body workout or upper-body focus, depending on your preference at any given time.
In terms of ergonomics, Matrix ellipticals also feature oversized pedals that accommodate various shoe sizes and offer a secure grip. The compact design of the machine, especially the center drive ellipticals, makes them suitable for home use, as they occupy minimal space. Additionally, the maintenance-free design ensures durability and longevity of the machine.
Ultimately, the variety of resistance levels and overall design attributes, such as the stride length, contribute to an effective and efficient workout experience with Matrix ellipticals.
The machine’s ability to adapt to your fitness level and goals ensures optimal results without compromising your comfort and safety.
Console Options
Matrix elliptical machines offer a variety of console options to suit your needs and preferences. The available consoles include the base XR console, the mid-level XER with a 10-inch touch screen, the XIR console with a 16-inch HD touchscreen, and the larger 22-inch touch XUR console available on the E50 and A50 models.
The XR console serves as a basic option that provides simple functionality. It comes with a clear display and a range of pre-set workout programs for you to choose from, offering variety without overwhelming you with options.
Stepping up to the XER console, you’ll get a 10-inch touch screen that enhances the overall usability and brings additional features. This console offers Bluetooth connectivity, Wi-Fi support, and a variety of workout apps that aid in diversifying your workout routine.
You’ll enjoy an interactive and engaging workout experience using the XER console.
The XIR console takes it a step further with its 16-inch HD touchscreen. This console boasts a larger and clearer display, which makes navigating through workout options and monitoring your progress a breeze. Similar to the XER console, the XIR console also includes Bluetooth connectivity, apps, and Wi-Fi support. Additionally, it features an HDMI port that works with a digital media player or compatible device for streaming and mirroring purposes, creating an even more dynamic workout experience.
Lastly, the XUR console, only available on the E50 and A50 ellipticals, offers the ultimate workout experience with its 22-inch touch screen.
The massive display ensures great visibility and accessibility of your workout programs and apps. It also comes equipped with all the features of the other consoles, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI inputs.
In summary, Matrix ellipticals offer a range of console options tailored to meet your specific workout needs and preferences. Whether you opt for the base XR console or upgrade to the XER, XIR, or XUR console, you can be assured of an engaging workout experience tailored to your personal preferences and goals.
Entertainment and Connectivity
As a Matrix elliptical owner, you’ll benefit from various entertainment and connectivity features that make your workout more enjoyable and efficient. The Matrix elliptical boasts ViaFit, a unique feature that allows you to track your workouts and sync them to popular fitness apps. Thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, your workout data seamlessly integrates with your smartphone, keeping you in tune with your fitness journey.
While exercising, your Matrix elliptical provides numerous entertainment options, ranging from watching YouTube, Netflix to browsing social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.
The available internet browser (web browser) on the XIR console ensures you can easily surf the web, catch up on emails, or watch your favorite shows during your workout.
Virtual Active, another excellent feature, takes you on immersive, realistic running trails across world-renowned locations. By integrating the Passport Player device with your Matrix elliptical, the scenery displayed on your home TV screen changes according to your speed, making your workout more engaging and enjoyable.
Furthermore, don’t miss out on HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts that help increase your fitness level rapidly. The Matrix elliptical offers Sprint8 training – an innovative HIIT workout program designed to maximize fat loss and muscle toning in a short amount of time.
In summary, the Matrix elliptical not only provides a comfortable and effective workout experience but also offers a range of entertainment and connectivity options to keep you engaged, motivated, and connected throughout your fitness journey.
Advanced Fitness Tracking
Matrix ellipticals are equipped with an array of advanced fitness tracking capabilities, ensuring that you have all the information you need to achieve your fitness goals. With features such as heart rate monitoring, the ViaFit app, and Virtual Active, you can immerse yourself in an exciting workout experience that keeps you motivated and engaged.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Matrix ellipticals offer accurate heart rate monitoring through their integrated sensors. These sensors allow you to track your pulse rate, ensuring that you stay within your target heart rate zone during workouts. By monitoring your heart rate, you can have more effective workouts and better track your progress over time.
ViaFit App
The ViaFit app, available on all but the base model EX-59 elliptical, takes fitness tracking to the next level. The app works through your WiFi network to seamlessly record workout data and sync it with any fitness program or wearable you choose. By keeping all your workout information in one place, the ViaFit app makes tracking your progress convenient and efficient.
Virtual Active Feature
Matrix ellipticals offer an immersive workout experience with the Virtual Active feature. This interactive tool lets you run on world-famous trails, transporting you to a whole new workout environment. With Virtual Active, you can exercise as if you’re exploring nature or traversing urban landscapes. This feature adds an engaging element to your workouts, making exercise more enjoyable and encouraging you to push yourself.
Workout Programs
Matrix ellipticals come with a variety of preloaded workout programs, designed to cater to different fitness levels and individual preferences. These programs offer a challenge tailored to your needs, helping you achieve your fitness goals faster. Adding variety to your workouts not only keeps you engaged but also ensures that you continue to see progress as you adapt to different challenges.
In summary, Matrix ellipticals offer you all the advanced fitness tracking tools necessary for a well-rounded and engaging workout experience. With heart rate monitoring, ViaFit app integration, Virtual Active, and an array of workout programs, you can take control of your fitness journey and maximize your potential.
Design and Comfort
Matrix Ellipticals indeed provide a comfortable and effective workout experience. One important factor contributing to this is their compact size, which can be seen, for example, in the E30 and E50 models. Their footprints measure just under 5 feet long and 2.5 feet wide, making them suitable for limited spaces.
Smart ergonomics further enhance the comfort of these ellipticals. The natural movement, facilitated by the Suspension Elliptical Technology, ensures a smooth and consistent ellipse while reducing noise and friction.
With your comfort in mind, Matrix Ellipticals also have a low step-on height to allow for easy accessibility.
To conveniently store necessities close by, these ellipticals come with an accessory tray, allowing for seamless organization during your workout. Their stationary handles are strategically placed for your convenience, ensuring a secure and comfortable grip.
Resistance toggles feature prominently on Matrix Ellipticals, enabling you to adjust resistance levels with ease. This user-friendly feature contributes to the overall design and comfort, especially when aiming for accurate resistance settings.
In summary, Matrix Ellipticals are thoughtfully designed to deliver a comfortable workout that seamlessly fits into your living space.
Their compact size, smart ergonomics, low step-on height, accessory tray, stationary handles, and resistance toggles all work together to create an inviting and efficient exercise experience.
Pricing and Investment
When considering a Matrix elliptical, it’s important to assess your budget and weigh the benefits of investing in a high-quality machine. Matrix ellipticals are known for their durability and lasting quality, making them a popular choice for those seeking gym-quality equipment for their home. However, these advantages come with a higher price tag.
With prices ranging from $3,499 to over $5,000, Matrix ellipticals may not be ideal for budget buyers.
Despite the initial investment, Matrix ellipticals often come with a substantial warranty, providing peace of mind and long-term value. Most models have a lifetime warranty on the frame, giving you confidence in the equipment’s construction and durability. In addition, warranties typically extend to a range of other components, such as:
- 5-7 years on parts
- 2 years on labor
Maintenance for Matrix ellipticals is usually minimal, thanks to their wheel-and-track-free suspension design which reduces noise and friction. This results in lower long-term maintenance costs, as you’ll likely experience fewer issues with the machine.
In terms of lasting quality, Matrix ellipticals are built with commercial-grade materials and engineering that ensures both reliability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, these ellipticals should provide years of enjoyable, low-impact exercise.
While Matrix ellipticals might not be the most budget-friendly option, their combination of durability, performance features, and warranty coverage can make them a worthwhile investment for those with a higher budget. By carefully examining your finances and fitness goals, you can determine if a Matrix elliptical is the right choice for your home gym.
Installation and Assembly
Matrix ellipticals offer a wheel-and-track-free suspension, which significantly reduces noise and friction for a smoother and quieter workout experience. This design also contributes to the machine’s durability and longevity. The absence of a wheel-and-track design makes assembly simpler and quicker, allowing you to enjoy your new home gym equipment sooner.
The process of installing your Matrix elliptical is straightforward.
While assembling the elliptical, you’ll appreciate the stability of the front drive system, which offers a more balanced and secure workout.
However, it’s always a good idea to review any included assembly guides or seek assistance through Matrix’s customer support resources. They provide video tutorials, FAQ sections, and troubleshooting tips, ensuring you can quickly and efficiently set up your elliptical.
Matrix ellipticals come with an incline option, allowing for targeted muscle toning and variable strides ranging from 20 to 24 inches, suitable for users of varying heights. Integrating an elliptical into your home gym is made easier with its compact footprint, requiring minimal rearranging even in limited spaces.
Remember to consider the ergonomics of the elliptical while setting it up, including the optimized pedal spacing and comfortable stride length, ensuring users of all sizes can use the machine with ease. The low step-on height of 9.1 inches and dual-action handlebars ensure maximum accessibility and comfort during your workouts.
By following the provided instructions and ensuring a proper setup, you’ll be able to enjoy a smooth, efficient, and comfortable workout experience using your Matrix elliptical.
Matrix Elliptical Alternatives for Your Home Gym
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 elliptical is a great alternative to Matrix ellipticals. Rated as the best overall elliptical by CNET, it offers various resistance levels, incline options, and workout programs to engage and challenge users of all fitness levels. The NordicTrack model allows you to have a versatile and effective workout experience without compromising on quality.
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical
- 10 inches HD smart touchscreen display
- 20 Degree adjustable power ramp
- 26 Digital resistance levels
- 30-day iFIT family membership
Sole Fitness E95 elliptical machine is another excellent option that has earned praise for its capabilities and build. Featuring a smooth and quiet performance, it is designed for optimum comfort and efficiency by incorporating a variety of features that tailor to your specific needs. With Sole Fitness E95, you can confidently enjoy your low-impact exercise routines in the comfort of your own home.
Sole Fitness E95
- Program Listed-10. Pulse Grips and Chest Strap Compatible. Heart Rate Monitor.
- Transfer workout data from the fitness equipment via Bluetooth
- Multiple levels of incline for users of all abilities
- Whisper quiet drive system provides a smooth, quiet ride
When exploring an alternative, it’s essential to compare the features, pricing, and overall performance of the elliptical machines. Note that, while NordicTrack and Sole Fitness are well-regarded alternatives, they might differ in essential aspects like dimensions, weight, or additional functionalities. Focus on finding a machine that suits your requirements and fits comfortably within your home gym setup.
Remember that with any home gym equipment, maintenance and warranties are vital factors to consider alongside machine quality. Research the offered warranties, customer support, and long-term maintenance options before settling on an alternative to Matrix ellipticals. This approach ensures that you’re investing in a product designed to support your fitness journey for an extended period.
By thoroughly evaluating your options and prioritizing features that meet your individual needs, you can make an informed decision about the right alternative elliptical machine for your home gym, opening the door to a world of custom and engaging workouts.
Comparison with Other Brands
Matrix ellipticals are high-quality machines that often compete with other well-known brands in the fitness industry, such as Sole, Precor, Horizon, Vision, Life Fitness, and Matrix Fitness itself.
Let’s dive into how these brands compare with the Matrix ellipticals.
Matrix ellipticals seem to focus heavily on the center drive design, which provides users with good posture and balance during exercise, while also saving space. In contrast, Life Fitness offers a more extensive range of ellipticals, including rear drive machines and the compact side drive FS4 and FS6 models. This may give users more choices, depending on their space and preferred exercise style.
With Sole ellipticals, you can expect solid machines with a smooth and natural motion, but they might not be as feature-rich as Matrix ellipticals.
Sole
SOLE Fitness E-series
Life Fitness
Life Fitness E3 Cross Trainer
Precor, on the other hand, offers a range of ellipticals with patented stride technology and biomechanics that can provide a beneficial workout experience. However, Precor machines may come at a higher price point than Matrix ellipticals.
Horizon ellipticals are an affordable option for home use and may have a lower price point than Matrix ellipticals, but they might not offer the same level of quality and durability.
ision ellipticals, which are part of the same parent company as Matrix Fitness, also offer quality machines with features such as suspension technology. However, they may not have the same center drive design focus as Matrix ellipticals.
Precor
Precor EFX 835
Horizon
Horizon Fitness EX-59
Matrix
Matrix Fitness E30
In summary, Matrix ellipticals stand out due to their center drive design and high-quality resistance, offering an engaging and effective workout experience. While other brands may offer various features and designs, Matrix ellipticals remain a strong contender in the market for their emphasis on durability and performance.
Why You Should Buy a Matrix Elliptical:
High-Quality Construction: Matrix ellipticals are known for their commercial-grade build, durability, and longevity. They feature Suspension Elliptical Technology that reduces noise and friction for a smooth, consistent ellipse.
Advanced Features: From varying electronic resistance levels to multiple workout programs and incline options, Matrix ellipticals offer advanced features that cater to different fitness levels.
Functional Console Options: Matrix ellipticals come with varied console options including XR, XER, XIR and XUR providing a choice of basic functionality to high-end interactive experiences based on your needs.
Enhanced Connectivity and Entertainment: The integration of WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth sync capabilities, access to popular apps like Netflix and Youtube during workouts ensures an engaging exercise experience.
Comprehensive Warranty: On purchasing a Matrix elliptical machine you can expect a generous warranty period covering the frame for lifetime along with 5-7 years on parts which speaks volumes about the quality of these machines.
Why You Should Not Buy a Matrix Elliptical:
High Price Point: A significant drawback is the high price range (from $3,499 to over $5,000), making these machines an expensive choice compared to those from other brands with similar features.
Space Constraints: Despite having compact models like E30 or E50 designed for smaller spaces, some models such as A30 Ascent Trainer may need more room because of its larger footprint.
Complicated Assembly Process: While generally straightforward enough for most people to handle on their own using provided instructions or online resources, some users might find assembly process cumbersome or challenging.
Limited Models in Residential Segment: Though every model promises quality performance and durability, there are only three main residential models (E30, E50 & A30), offering limited choices when compared to other brands.
Lack of First-hand Experience Before Purchase: Given that Matrix Fitness majorly caters to high-end commercial market rather than residential one and their products are mostly sold online makes it difficult for potential customers to try out the machine in person before buying.
Final Considerations
Choosing a Matrix elliptical comes down to assessing the features that suit your needs best. These machines come with an array of bells and whistles that enhance your workout experience. For instance, there’s a water bottle holder conveniently placed near the console area, allowing you to stay hydrated without interrupting your exercise.
One primary appeal of Matrix ellipticals is the choice of three different consoles. Each console caters to varying user preferences and budgets, providing flexibility in terms of tech offerings while still maintaining the quality performance of the elliptical itself.
Considering the investment in a Matrix elliptical, it’s essential to take note of the warranty. These machines come with a generous 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty, ensuring your investment remains protected and reinforcing confidence in the brand’s durability.
Another factor to consider is the step-on height. Matrix ellipticals have a relatively low step-on height, making them more accessible for users with mobility concerns or those who prefer a low-impact workout.
Space is often a significant consideration when adding fitness equipment to your home. Matrix ellipticals boast a compact footprint, so they won’t take up unnecessary space in your workout area. The center-driven design further contributes to their space-saving attributes and promotes proper posture during your workout.
To recap, when deliberating about purchasing a Matrix elliptical, consider factors such as the available features, console options, warranty, step-on height, and compact footprint for an informed decision. As you weigh these factors, remember that these machines are known for their quality, performance, and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best features of Matrix ellipticals?
Matrix ellipticals offer a smooth and stable full-body workout, thanks to their Suspension Elliptical Technology. These machines also come with high-quality consoles that provide varied and engaging training programs to help you reach your fitness goals. Additionally, Matrix ellipticals have a reputation for durability and low maintenance requirements, which makes them a long-term investment.
How does Matrix elliptical compare to NordicTrack?
Both Matrix and NordicTrack are reputable brands offering high-quality ellipticals. Key differences include Matrix’s focus on Suspension Elliptical Technology, providing a more natural and stable workout, while NordicTrack is known for its iFit-connected fitness programs. Choosing between the two may depend on your personal preferences, such as workout programs or a smoother ride, and budget.
Is the Matrix A50 worth the investment?
The Matrix A50, part of the high-end Matrix home elliptical line, is a feature-rich machine, offering performance and durability. The A50 has a robust frame, a 50-pound flywheel, adjustable stride length, and the innovative Suspension Elliptical Technology. The console also offers various programs led by professional trainers to keep you motivated. While the Matrix A50 is priced on the higher end, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for a gym-quality elliptical for your home.
How do the Matrix A30 and A50 models differ?
The Matrix A30 and A50 ellipticals share many similarities, such as the Suspension Elliptical Technology and the console with workout programs. However, the A50 includes additional features, such as an upgraded 50-pound flywheel, adjustable stride length, a higher weight capacity, and built-in speakers to enhance your workout experience. These additional features make the A50 a more versatile and advanced model compared to the A30.
What is the quality of Matrix gym equipment?
Matrix gym equipment, widely recognized for its use in commercial settings, is known for its superior quality, durability, and performance. Matrix Fitness equipment is designed to withstand heavy use while maintaining its smooth and natural motion. Investing in Matrix equipment ensures you will be getting a premium, long-lasting, and effective workout solution.
Are Matrix ellipticals suitable for home use?
Yes, Matrix ellipticals are suitable for home use. The brand has expanded its production to include high-end residential ellipticals, bringing gym-quality machines to your home. With their durable construction, advanced technology, and engaging workout programs, a Matrix elliptical is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile cardio machine for your home gym.
