Bowflex Velocore Bike  

BUY IT NOW: 

£2,799, fitness-superstore.co.uk (not available in the US)

Pros:

• Fun to ride. The leaning feature also hits the core and arms not just the leg muscles  
• Decent selection of riding mode workouts and a one-year free membership to the JRNY app
• 22in high-definition touchscreen (there’s a 16in option too) 
• Smooth and quiet ride with magnetic resistance from 1-100 
• Can be used with or without the leaning feature

Cons: 

• You’ll need space. The design is bigger and heavier than most indoor bikes
• Expensive  

Smart features: 5/5
Stability: 4.5/5
Comfort: 5/5
OVERALL: 5/5 

Designed by Bowflex, the manufacturer of the popular SelectTech adjustable barbells and dumbbells, the Velocore exercise bike is the latest evolution of the humble exercise bike. Yet this one takes home cycling workouts to a whole new level.

It works like a normal stationary bike, but with the press of a  button, it switches from a stationary bike one that actually leans into corners. In a similar way to the Garmin Tacx Neo Bike, it adds an unprecedented degree of realism to stationary, virtual cycling.

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As you lean from side to side riding through the winding roads of your virtual workout, you’re also giving your core, arms and shoulders a more significant workout than you would on a stationary bike. You’ll automatically increase muscle activation, and hence increase calorie burn.

Bowflex Velocore features

In addition to its standout leaning mode, the Bowflex VeloCore comes equipped with a host of other features that make for an engaging cycling experience. There are two touchscreen console sizes available – a 16in version (£2,499) as well as the 22in model we tested. These are compatible with a variety of streaming apps including Netflix, Hulu and HBOMax.

Both versions also come with a one-year membership to JRNY, an adaptive fitness platform that offers a variety of workout options including a personalised coaching system that creates daily custom workouts that automatically adjusts the time and intensity of your workouts as your fitness improves.

Activate leaning mode on the Bowflex VeloCore for a full-body workout

Alongside built-in Bluetooth speakers, a water bottle holder and a media rack for your phone or tablet, the bike also comes with a pair of 1.5kg dumbbells, which dock nicely in an attachment underneath the touchscreen console. 

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Measuring 141.7 x 140.5 x 62.2cm (55.8 x 55.3 x 24.1in), the bike is a pretty normal size. You’ll just need to remember that in Lean Mode, you’ll need an available width of at least twice that 62.2cm to make full use of this feature. The Bowflex Velocore’s main frame, however, feels extremely sturdy and is pretty straightforward to set up (though it helps if there are two of you). It’s also easy to manoeuvre and relocate thanks to the wheels at the front of the bike and the handle behind the rear wheel.  

Getting started with the Bowflex Velocore

The bike accommodates riders between 155cm and 196cm (5ft 1in and 6ft 5in). Changing the height of the four-way adjustable seat and handlebars couldn’t be easier, and once set up the bike feels impressively solid. Both the moving parts and the finishing kit on the Bowflex VeloCore are extremely high-quality; the bike feels stable and the pedalling seamless.  

The pedals also offer dual-functionality. On one side you’ll find SDP clips for cycling shoes, but if you don’t have the correct footwear, no problem; just pop on your trainers, flip over the pedals and push your feet into the toe baskets.  

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The bike offers 100 resistance levels, which you can move between by twisting the large red knob between the bike seat and handlebars. And of course you have the leaning mode which works exceptionally well and which you can turn on and off mid-workout.  

Post-session, you’ll definitely feel that you’ve worked your upper body as well as your legs and core. It’s this leaning feature that creates a whole body workout as you work to maintain balance and coordination. And that’s something you wouldn’t otherwise get from an indoor bike. In that respect the BowFlex VeloCore is different to anything else we’ve tested. 

Is the JRNY App any good? 

So how does the display work, and what’s on the touchscreen monitor while you’re pedalling away?

Just like many interactive cardio machines, you’re able to keep an eye on your usual metrics like time, distance (km or miles), calories per minute, total calories, heart rate, cadence and resistance, as well as amount of lean via the touchscreen monitor. 

BowFlex also has its own interactive fitness and content platform, called JRNY, where you can access different features and cycling classes as well as full-body classes like stretching, yoga, and strength training – which you can do off the bike. It also allows you to stream workout videos, music playlists and video services. The 22-inch touchscreen we tested is responsive, well-lit and has a clear and high-definition screen – great for watching a movie whilst pedalling.  

Should you buy the Bowflex VeloCore? 

There’s certainly a reason why the Bowflex VeloCore has won so many awards – it’s effective, engaging and most of all, fun. But if you want to own one it will cost you – though Fitness Superstore offer significant discounts on the retail price. Sure, the price might raise a few eyebrows, but the leaning feature does offer an immersive feature that helps relieve boredom and works your core and upper body more than any traditional stationary bike that we’ve tested.

So if you’re a lover of cycling, and you’ve got the space to spare at home, then the Bowflex VeloCore may well be the exercise bike for you. This innovative piece of gear offers a unique workout experience, and you’ll reap the fitness benefits. 

The post MF Tests: Bowflex Velocore appeared first on MensFitness.

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Concept2 SkiErg

$850 / £815, concept2.com 

Pros:

• Low impact  
• Comfortable grip  
• Compact footprint 
• Cheaper than most cardio machines   

Cons:

• Noisy
• Small display  

Features: 4/5
Ease of use: 5/5
Home-gym friendly: 3.5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5 

Find out how to use a SkiErg

Ergonomic handles and a solid base (which is an additional expense) make for smooth performance

Walk into any gym worth its salt and you’re likely to see a tall machine up against a wall. That’s probably the SkiErg: a low-impact cardio machine that entered the scene back in 2009. There are a number of ski machines on the market these days, but the Concept2 SkiErg can lay claim to being the original.  

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Often associated with rowing machines – with the titular ‘Concept2’ rower representing the gold standard in that space – the company’s sideways move into ski machines didn’t require a reinvention of the (fly)wheel.

Concept2 SkiErg features

Much like the rower, the handles – neon green and ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip – are connected to a flywheel. On the side of that flywheel is a ‘damper’, which can be placed at any marked number from 1 to 10. Put simply, a higher setting will let more air into the fan cage, which makes it harder to use. Because of all that air rushing in and out of the flywheel, the Concept 2 SkiErg is loud, so don’t expect a quiet workout. 

It’s fairly compact, with a maximum width of 52cm (20.5in) and a depth of 41cm (16.1in). It’s tall at 218.4cm (86in), so anyone with low ceilings should get the tape measure out to make sure it will fit. But compared to a treadmill or rower it takes up minimal floor space.  

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Much like other cardio machines, the SkiErg has a PM5 screen (a small one), which is simple to use and pretty self-explanatory. There’s the option to change the units in which you measure your output (watts, strokes per minute, calories and distance, for example). Plus you can also change the layout of the display. You might want to work against an electronic ski pacemaker, do your own thing (‘Just Ski’) or follow one of the pre-set workouts. 

You can also connect your phone to the screen via Bluetooth to keep track of your workouts. You’ll just need to download the Concept2 app.

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Should you buy the Concept2 SkiErg?

The SkiErg’s key point of difference, like all ski machines, is that it mainly targets your upper body. With correct form you should be recruiting your glutes and hamstrings, too, but it’s your core, shoulders, lats and triceps that’ll be doing most of the work.  

One downside is the fact that the floor stand isn’t included in the original price. That’s both inconvenient and expensive, as it’s going to set you back an extra £235. Not only is that a lot of money for a stand, but the only option without it is to wall-mount the SkiErg, so it’s going to be a necessary addition for most.

Overall, the Concept2 SkiErg is an impressive piece of kit that will help to condition not only your cardio system, but your upper body. It’s cheaper than most cardio machines (even with the stand) and doesn’t take up too much floor space.  

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Hydrow Wave

BUY IT NOW:

$1,895 / £1,595 (plus $44 / £44 monthly membership), hydrow.com

Design: 4/5
Features: 4/5
Home-gym friendly: 4.5/5
OVERALL: 4/5

Pros:

• Cheaper than the original
• Compact design
• Smooth and quiet operation
• Engaging classes and inspiring instructors 

Cons:

• Screen can be tricky to operate 
• Built-in speakers could be better 
• Bluetooth audio delay
• Monthly subscription fees

Hydrow made waves in the rowing space when it launched its debut connected rower in 2021, but is the brand’s newer, slightly cheaper and more compact Wave just as impressive? 

The Hydrow Wave is a more slimline and less space-consuming version of the brand’s original model, measuring about 30% smaller. 

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Launched just two months or so after Peloton announced it was getting into the connected rowing space (a machine that’s currently readying for UK launch), the Wave is not only slimmer and sleeker but priced at £400 less than its predecessor, costing £1,595. 

Hydrow Wave design

The Wave is an exquisite bit of kit. With a minimal design of neat, curved edges complemented by high-quality materials such as brushed aluminium and steel, it has an elegance and robustness that justifies its price tag. It measures 204 x 49 x 110cm (80.3 x 19.3 x 43.3in) while the original comes in at 219 x 64 x 84cm (86.2 x 25.2 x 33.1in).

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Despite being more compact that its predecessor, it still has some significant length to it and will dominate smaller spaces. However, it’s a relatively lightweight device by rower standards (at 43kg / 94.8lb compared to the original at 66kg / 145.5lb) and has built-in casters on its front legs, allowing for easy transport and storage. 

The Hydrow Wave rower won’t look out of place in most living rooms – as long as you can find the space

Hydrow Wave performance

Despite its rather svelte appearance, the Hydrow Wave feels sturdy and robust underfoot when in use, which is important for something you’re throwing your entire body weight up and down, at speed.

It also feels incredibly smooth thanks to its drag technology and computer-controlled resistance, which have been developed to replicate the natural feel of rowing on water. It’s almost as realistic as the WaterRower Original Series. You’ll appreciate that smoothness when you’re really going for it. It’s almost like you’re out there on the waves, getting all the benefits of rowing: a low-impact, total-body workout. And without getting wet.

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As for the Hydrow platform, it’s easy to use and boasts an array of engaging live daily workouts with Hydrow athletes, including Olympians and world-class rowers, alongside an ever-growing library of on-demand content. It works well, is fun to exercise alongside and feels lie a premium service. But then so it should for a £44 monthly subscription cost.

How does the Hydrow Wave compare to its rivals?

Still, not many other rowers sport such an advanced built-in content platform. The imminent Peloton Row looks to become its most immediate rival. Both products offer connected fitness experiences, but the Peloton Row looks more advanced. It’ll cost almost double the price of the Hydrow Wave and will focus on high-intensity workouts and competitive challenges.

The Hydrow Wave, on the other hand, is more of a ‘lite’ option, emphasising the immersive and meditative aspects of rowing, with on-demand classes that feature scenic rowing videos.

While you could compare the workout experience of the Hydrow Wave to existing popular rowers such as the Concept2 RowErg, it’s difficult to draw parallels since the Wave’s unique  live content offering is something that transforms the entire workout experience.

Hydrow Wave disadvantages

One of the few things that disappointed us was the touchscreen display, which allows users to access the connected Hydrow platform. Since it’s positioned on an arm at a set distance from the seat, the problem we found is that it can be awkward to reach – even with the rower’s seat right at the very front of the machine’s slide.

Of course, it’s much easier to control when your feet aren’t strapped into the footrests, but if you’re looking to alter settings mid-workout or want to see smaller detail like stats the screen can feel too far away. This isn’t as much of a problem on the original Hydrow machine as it features a much larger 22-inch display over the Wave’s 16-inch variant. 

Another slight niggle we have is regarding the quality of the audio coming from the Wave’s built-in speakers. At higher volumes it sounds tinny, lacking the richness and depth you’d expect from a high-end bit of kit. When connecting it to an external speaker via Bluetooth there’s also a slight delay, which can be irritating. 

Should you buy a Hydrow Wave?

When first released in the UK, the Hydrow Wave was priced at a more accessible £1,395. Now it’s risen to £1,595, which still seems good value – but it’s certainly not cheap. Plus you need to factor in the £44/month membership (up from £38 last year) to access the Hydrow platform. That seems steep when you consider Peloton’s (already quite expensive) all-access membership is £39/month. And that’s all that’s required for one household, even if you own multiple Peloton devices.

Since Hydrow so far only offers rowing machines, it’s a big price to pay when there’s no opportunity to add other equipment types to your home gym arsenal that share the same subscription.

Yet while the Wave is an expense, it does offer one of the best authentic rowing experiences on the market. It feels robust, looks stunning and would prove a great complement to any home gym. Still, if it’s the best experience you’re after, it might be worth paying the extra for the original Hydrow model to get the bigger screen and better audio in a form factor that’s not actually all that bigger. 

Words: Lee Bell

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WaterRower Original Series

BUT IT NOW:

From $1,099 /£1,099, waterrower.co.uk

Pros:

• Unique, aesthetic design
• Natural, fluid movement
• Numerous upgrades available
• Choice of types of wood
• Easy storage

Cons:

• Low seat and steep angled foot position
• High price with costly additions

Features: 3/5
Ease of use: 4/5
Home-gym friendly: 5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5

The WaterRower is an unusual and beautifully designed take on the home rowing machine. It works your entire body in the same way a traditional rower would, but that is where the similarities end.

Rather than use air resistance, the WaterRower uses a unique water flywheel that mimics rowing on water. It’s remarkably realistic, too, and provides an immersive and enjoyable workout.

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WaterRower features

The design of the WaterRower provides a smoother pull than other rowers, as it reduces the jerkiness from a regular chain. It uses two rails for the seat instead of the more common one, which adds to its smoothness and stability. The sound of the water moving also provides a relaxing effect for almost meditative sessions.

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The WaterRower’s main frame is made from hardwood (you can choose between ash, oak, cherry and walnut). The oak and ash versions are the basic price, the Club version (rose and black stained ash) is £1,149, the cherry £1,249 and walnut £1,349. Each frame carries a five-year warranty and parts are also protected for three years.

At 2.09m long and 56cm wide, it’s easily storable in an upright position without taking up too much space. It weighs just over 30kg (66lb) without the water in the tub, and is comfortable to move around thanks to wheels at the heavy end.

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The included S4 performance monitor is fairly basic. You’ll need to upgrade to get Bluetooth connectivity

The WaterRower has a range of optional upgraded – including a 17in screen for games-based workouts, a power meter, Bluetooth connectivity and high-rise seat kit – but these are an additional cost.

Assembly is fairly simple, with the main components connected using a standard hex key. You simply have to add water to the tub and you’re good to row.

WaterRower disadvantages

The WaterRower design seats you very low to the ground, at just 30cm. That might make it difficult for people with limited mobility to get off the rower after exercising (though this can be improved with the high-rise seat kit). The angle of the foot straps is also quiet steep, meaning anyone with restriction around their knees or calves may feel added pressure.

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The standard model doesn’t come with any interactive rowing experience, and only has a simple console. You can programme in distance and time goals, but both are fairly basic. The standard WaterRower is more than £1,000, but if you can easily spend hundreds more on upgrades.

Should you buy a WaterRower?

Not only does the WaterRower provide a unique and realistic rowing experience, it is also easier to store upright than most rowers. And in terms of ergonomics and design it blows all other rowing machines out of the water. In fact it almost looks too beautiful to use, but that means it can become the centrepiece of your exercise space rather than feeling the need to stow it away after every use.

Overall it’s an excellent addition to any home gym and provides a challenging and enjoyable workout for all abilities. Though the design and water flywheel are its main selling points, it’s otherwise quite a no-frills machine – although there are plenty of options to upgrade over time.

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Wolverson Ski Trainer Mk2

BUT IT NOW:

£779.99 (not currently available in the US), wolverson-fitness.co.uk

Pros:

• Excellent workout for all abilities
• Mimics cross-country skiing well
• Can be wall mounted or used on a stand

Cons:

• Stand is a additional expense
• Basic display features

Features: 3/5
Ease of use: 5/5
Home-gym friendly: 5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5

The Wolverson Ski Trainer mk2 is a robust cardio machine designed to simulate cross-country skiing, similar in design to the Concept2 SkiErg. Like its rival it provides a good full-body aerobic workout (though with a focus on the upper body).

That’s because the force required to pull is relatively low so you can do a large amount of reps, clocking up significant ‘distances’. Of course, it’s easy to add an anaerobic challenge by doing short, intense sprints.

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Wolverson Ski Trainer benefits

Operation is simple: just pull the handles as you would ski poles when skiing cross-country. The harder you pull down, the more resistance you create, as it uses a flywheel that traps the air and slows you down. You can use both hands to pull simultaneously or do alternate hands.

The Wolverson Ski Trainer can be mounted on the wall or attached to a stand, giving you flexibility in terms of where you can use and store it. Weighing only 37kg, it’s easy to move with two wheels at the rear, and the width of only 60cm means it doesn’t take up too much space – although you’ll need more than 225cm in ceiling height.

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Because of its open design it’s wheelchair accessible so is a useful option for people with leg injuries or adaptive athletes. Using the Wolverson seated still gives you as much of a workout as it does standing.

The Wolverton Ski Trainer can pair up with heart rate monitors, so you can monitor your work rate. Its display provides all the important information for monitoring progress such as speed, distance, time, calories, stroke rate and pulse. However, you can’t work out against a ski pacemaker like you can on the Concept2 SkiErg.

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Assembly is fairly easy, as only large pieces need to be connected via bolts and screws. It’s easier to have two people to connect the skier to the base, but it is manageable with one. Construction is simple but robust and reinforced the impression that the Ski Trainer will be a long-lasting investment.

Wolverson Ski Trainer disadvantages

The machine has a basic console, unlike most modern cardio equipment which tends to have touchscreens and visual programmes. You can select a few different options on the console, but the design is fairly simple. There’s no interactivity here for those who like a more immersive workout.

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The stand is an optional extra, but is necessary if you don’t want to bolt the machine permanently to the wall. Given its simple design it’s fairly expensive at £179.99 and if bought together with the Ski Trainer that’s the best part of £1,000. Still, with similar design and performance to the Concept2 SkiErg (the stand for which is also an optional extra), it’s a slightly cheaper option.

Should you buy a Wolverton Ski Trainer?

The Wolverson Ski Trainer provides challenging exercise for all levels and is very simple to use. It’s ideal for a home gym, as it can be stored away in the corner then wheeled out to use (if you have the stand). If you want to track your workouts and heart rate without diving too deep into data, it’s a solid choice.

It comes with a five-year frame warranty and one-year protection for parts or extra peace of mind.

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American Weights Curved Wooden Treadmill

BUY IT NOW:

$2,777, americanweights.co

PROS:

• Striking design
• Reduces impact on body due to curvature of belt
• Provides a better cardio workout than most treadmills
• Self-propelled, which allows you to work at your own pace
• Encourages a more natural running style

CONS:

• Expensive
• No set programmes
• You can’t change resistance
• Difficult to maintain constant speed

Features: 2.5/5
Ease of use: 3/5
Home-gym friendly: 4.5/5
OVERALL: 4/5

The American Weights Curved Wooden Treadmill a world away from most sleek, black functional treadmills on the market. It’s a delightfully designed machine that looks more like a work of art than a piece of cardio kit. It’s elegant, minimal design would create a centrepiece in any gym, fitness studio or home setting. Which is all very well – but does it deliver in the workout department?

American Weights Curved Wooden Treadmill features

The self-propelled treadmill provides a different running experience to typical electrically powered belt treadmills. That’s because you’re the power behind moving the belt. When going for a regular run outdoors, you have to generate force into the ground to propel yourself forward, known as ‘ground force reaction’. And that’s the idea here.

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On motorised belt treadmills, you’re taking your feet off a moving surface repeatedly and therefore not generating the force needed to move your body forward. With a curved self-propelled treadmill you have to put some force though your legs to move the belt. This makes it more similar to the running biomechanics you’d use outdoors.

It’s estimated you use approximately 30% more energy on a curved self-propelled treadmill than on a motorised one. It also requires increased balance and coordination.

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The design of the Curved Wooden Treadmill means you’re striking the surface at a slight angle, too, which creates less impact on your body and therefore less stress, especially through the knee joints. The belt on the treadmill moves faster the further you stride forward, and less as you land centrally. It provides a more natural feel for runners, and a more challenging workout for people looking to burn more calories.

If you’re new to using a curved, self-propelled treadmill there are bars to support you, which you’ll rely on less, the more confident you become.

Providing all the power yourself on a manual curved treadmill means a more effective workout

American Weights Curved Wooden Treadmill areas for improvement

The curved treadmill creates more of a challenge when it comes to mastering the technique of the belt system than with a motorised treadmill. That’s due to constantly having to generate the belt’s momentum.

Most beginners are unsure where to stride out to, and there’s a natural instinct to shorten your movement to prevent falling. Therefore, using any self-propelled treadmill can take longer to get used to. And the American Weights treadmill is no different.

It’s also difficult to maintain your speed when running, as you have to continually stride forward. Slowing down because of a mis-stride results in your speed reducing dramatically. But again this is true of any manual treadmill design.

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The display unit is very basic, too, with only time and distance functions, plus a few simple programmes. There are no touchscreen programmes to follow or virtual pacemakers to follow.

The Curved Wooden Treadmill is quite noisy, especially when running. Unlike some motorised treadmills, which have a flexible spring system under the belt, the curved treadmill doesn’t. On this model, the belt doesn’t provide any added resistance, which other curved treadmill do, so it’s pretty loud when in use.

The unit is also very heavy and needs a few people to unbox and lift into place. Although it has wheels at the front and can be tilted to move, it’s quite heavy and awkward, so it’s difficult to store away and can’t fold up like other treadmills. However, once unboxed, the treadmill just requires the handles and electronic display to be attached, so that part’s simple at least.

Is the American Weights Curved Wooden Treadmill worth buying?

If money is no object, yes. It encourages a more natural running technique than conventional treadmills, and its striking design will elevate any home gym. However, beginners are likely to be better suited to a more run-of-the-mill treadmill design. Also those looking for greater inbuilt programming or fitness tracking options should probably look elsewhere.

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While an exercise bike might be your first choice of home cardio kit, treadmills can also offer killer cardio workouts. However their footprint is substantially larger and folding versions either feel flimsy or are hugely expensive. Enter the Echelon Stride Auto-Fold Treadmill…

Echelon Stride

BUY IT NOW:

$1299 / £1599 (for the treadmill) plus $34.99 / £29.99/mo all-access membership, echelonfit.com

Pros:

• Good value. At $1,299 / £1,599, it’s significantly cheaper than the Life Fitness F1 Smart Folding Treadmill (£2,045, lifefitness.co.uk) and less than half the price of the Peloton Tread (£3,345, onepeloton.co.uk). Despite the low cost, quality is impressive.  
• Folds flat. The motorised auto-folding system makes it quick and easy to store. 
• Quick adjustment. It can reach its top incline and speed levels quickly, making it useful for interval and sprint training. 

Cons:

• No Screen. This means you need a tablet or phone to take advantage of the Echelon Fit app and the live and on-demand workout sessions on offer. 
• Subscription fee. At £29.99 a month, the subscription is an additional expense.
• Speed cap. Level 12 may not be enough for serious athletes.  

Noise: 4/5
Ease of use: 5/5
Running comfort: 4/5
Workout options: 3/5
OVERALL: 4/5 

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Echelon Stride Auto-Fold Treadmill review 

If lack of space puts you off getting a home treadmill, folding options make a lot of sense – but quality, rigidity and stability can vary considerably. The Echelon Stride falls into this folding bracket, but its quality design means the user experience isn’t compromised.

Packing the Echelon Stride away is surprisingly straightforward thanks to its motorised auto-fold feature. The handlebars automatically fold down flat which allows you to slide the treadmill under your bed or push it vertically against a wall. So you can free up space for free weights or mobility work almost instantly. 

Speed controls are well placed and immediate on the Echelon Stride

Benefits of the Echelon Stride 

The Echelon Slide is a decent-sized treadmill. Measuring 176cm long x 78.7cm wide x 125cm tall (69.3 x 31 x 49.2in), it has a relatively generous running surface despite being around 12cm (5in) shorter and 5cm (2in) narrower than most home treadmills on the market.  

The Stride can hit speeds of 19kmph (12mph), so is suitable for everything from walking and jogging to sprint workouts. The deck feels cushioned and springy which lessens impact on the joints and avoids noisy pounding.  

The incline is quick to hit its maximum 10% gradient. While that’s decent given the folding nature of the Stride, it can’t match other popular models. The JTX Club-Pro Professional Treadmill (£2,229, jtxfitness.com) can reach 15% while the NordicTrack Commercial X32i (£4,799, nordictrack.co.uk) maxes out at an impressive 40%. Still, it’s enough of a gradient to get a taste of hill training.

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The standout feature of the Stride, or course, is its slim, folding design. At just 25cm (10in) thick, it’s easy to fold and move thanks to the large steel handle at the rear. The two sets of transport wheels allow it to be rolled in any direction too.

To fold the treadmill, you simply release the console by pushing it flat, then allow the arms to fold flat by releasing a button under the handlebars. Then just step on a pedal lever on the left side of the treadmill to collapse the frame.  

The Echelon Stride comes with a safety stop lanyard and is equipped with a metal safety bar underneath the treadmill that Echelon claims protects objects from being pulled under. There’s also a mesh cup holder on either side and a USB charging port. 

Programme controls and the safety lanyard sit just below the main console

Potential problems with the Echelon Stride 

This might not be the treadmill for you if you like to see your running stats or prefer an integrated touchscreen for your treadmill distractions. Instead, it has a 52 x 15cm (20.5 x 6in) console screen that shows your basic workout metrics such as distance, altitude, elapsed time, pace and estimated calories burned (pace and calories switch to a step counter and tread speed respectively).

You do have the option to tap into the Echelon app where you can access a spectrum of live and on-demand classes but you’ll need to connect to a tablet via Bluetooth for that – and pay a monthly £29.99 subscription.  

The variety of personal trainers and live studio classes on offer certainly adds to the experience. But placing a tablet on the designated shelf covers up some of the workout stats on the control panel beneath, which can be annoying. Using a phone will help but that won’t give you the same workout experience. 

A useful feature is the quick jump buttons – with instant speed buttons for 3, 6 and 9mph on the right, and incline buttons for 3,6 and 9% on the left. You also have access to the speed and incline adjustment buttons located on the right and left handrails, which are convenient to reach and control when running. 

Should you buy an Echelon Stride?

While the Stride makes some minor compromises to achieve its folding design, it still provides a quality exercise experience that’s suitable for all fitness levels and running goals. Its 1.75 HP motor in surprisingly quiet, too, making it suitable for use in any room in the house. 

The console does feel basic, but if that doesn’t offer enough feedback that’s where the Echelon app comes in. Paying your monthly subscription means you can look forward to the daily live runs or cross-training classes like the Stride Bootcamp. That splits class time between the treadmill and strength training. Or you can go for race runs, which place you on a live community leaderboard based on your effort.  

The post MF Tests: Echelon Stride Auto-Fold Treadmill appeared first on MensFitness.

Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline

BUY IT NOW: 

£519 (not currently available in the US), mobvoi.com 

PROS: 

• Substantial 15% incline
• Live data streamed to smartwatches 
• Quiet 3HP motor  
• Compact folding design

CONS: 

• Comparatively small running deck 
• Maximum speed only 14km/h  
• No pause mode
• Doesn’t fold flat  

Smart features: 4/5
Stability: 4/5
Comfort: 3/5
OVERALL: 4/5

The Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline tops the company’s three-treadmill lineup. It’s basically an inclining version of the Treadmill Pro with additional watch sync and connectivity features over the standard Mobvoi Home Treadmill.

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The treadmill will appeal to fans of the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro3 Ultra or the company’s other smartwatches and fitness trackers. In fact anyone with WearOS devices can make use of its standout feature. That’s the Mobvoi’s ability to sync to smartwatches and display live data such as heart-rate and calories burned from the watch on its screen.

Likewise, you can also access saved workout stats from the treadmill straight from your wrist. You can also see information like steps, time, distance, pace and speed live on both devices.

The Mobvoi’s 15% incline gives you plenty of scope for hill training

To connect them you simply need the Mobvoi Treadmill app and any android smartwatch that can download the app from the Google Play Store. Apple watches are not currently supported, but we’d expect iOS support to be added in the near future.

Benefits of the Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline  

Coming in at around £500, the Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline is considerably cheaper than many home treadmills on the market. That includes the likes of the Echelon Stride and the Peloton Tread – yet it still has the ability to fold and incline. In fact, the gradient goes up to a generous 15% – 3% more than the Stride and the Tread – making it a useful tool for hill training. 

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The running belt measures 40 x 110cm (16 x 43.3in), so it’s big enough for general walking and running. But it feels a little confining for sprinting or interval work. The length is perfectly adequate but the narrow belt requires you to focus on keeping in the middle of the deck.

The machine itself feels study when running at speed. The belt goes up to 14kmph (8.7mph) so will be fine for most people’s need. Don’t expect to do all-out sprinting sessions through. Fortunately the emergency safety clip is very responsive if you do come a cropper. 

Operating the treadmill is straightforward, with just a few easy-to-read buttons. It’s simply a case of setting a time, distance or calorie goal. Or selecting one of the 25 pre-set programmes.  

The Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline is lightweight and easy to fold. Just a tap with your foot activates the hydraulic system, which initiates the automatic folding process. It’s doesn’t fold completely flat though so won’t store under a bed like the Echelon. It is on wheels, though, and can be moved from room to room and stored upright fairly easily. 

Disadvantages of the Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline  

The handles and built-in LED screen are fairly low, so if you’re tall you’ll find yourself looking down to check your stats, which isn’t great for running posture. Another annoyance is the lack of a pause button. If you have to stop your workout for a toilet stop or to answer the door the treadmill will reset itself. There’s no built-in cup or phone holder either. 

Sync the Mobvoi with your android watch and you can get all your stats on your wrist

Should you buy a Mobvoi Home Treadmill incline? 

The Mobvoi treadmill combines gym-quality experience with an easy-to-use interface. It’s solidly constructed, with a quiet and energy-efficient yet powerful 3HP motor. The running belt is grippy and waterproof and its five-layer running surface offers good shock absorption and feels springy and durable.

Its smartwatch synchronisation is a neat feature which can help make sessions more engaging. Accessing your stats in real time on your wrist will be a plus for those with dedicated training plans to follow.

It’s a fairly compact unit, with a small footprint. However, not folding completely flat means you might still need to think about storage solutions. The height of the screen and handles may annoy some, as might the lack of tablet or phone integration. But you can always connect to training apps like Zwift on your smart TV. Plus you can bypass the display and keep an eye on your stats on your watch instead.  

Overall the Mobvoi Home Treadmill Incline is a useful option for those looking for a low-profile treadmill for living room use. It has a few features you’d typically only find on more expensive treadmills, including a generous incline. It’s easy to connect to your smartwatch or various running apps too. Just  don’t expect to set any new PBs.  

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For a full roundup, check out the best heart rate monitors

Coospo H808s

BUY IT NOW:

$36.99 / £31, coospo.com

PROS:

• Excellent value
• Audio and LED alerts

CONS:

• Hit and miss accuracy
• No built-in memory

Comfort: 4/5
Accuracy: 3/5
Tracking features: 2/5
OVERALL: 3/5

At well under £50, the no-frills Coospo H808S is one of the cheapest chest straps you’ll find. And if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly heart rate monitor, this basic BPM tracker certainly ticks the budget box. But can it keep up with the best on test in terms of comfort and accuracy? 

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When it comes to comfort, the simple answer is yes. At 46g, it’s lighter than some of the top monitors. The sensor module is nice and compact and fits within a standard strap that’s also thin, soft and comfortable. There are no problems with rubbing, chafing or cutting, even during two-hour-long gym sessions. It’s easy to get on and off with a regular hook fastening like you’ll find on Garmin HRM Pro Plus.

Coospo H808s design

Battery life is solid too. The Coospo H808s runs off a coin cell battery that lasts 300 hours. That’s shorter than the slightly pricier Wahoo TICKR X (500 hours) and the Polar H10 (400 hours). But it’s still close to a year, if you’re training an hour a day. It’s easy to swap the battery, too, with no need for screwdrivers.

Connectivity is on a par with the leading chest straps. The Coospo H808s supports two concurrent Bluetooth connections plus an ANT+ connection. So you can pair multiple devices like a GPS watch, cycle computer, fitness app, gym equipment and/or a training service like Peloton or Zwift. There’s a cycling-focused CoospoRide partner app that lets you dig into your data in real-time and post workout.  

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Simple LED lights on the front of the sensor show when you’re connected and ready to go. That’s backed up by audio alerts, though there’s no audible guidance for your zone training. 

Accuracy is pretty good, just not consistently so. In tests, it can match the £400 Frontier X2 almost beat for beat, with the highs, lows and averages also a close match. However, on occasions, the Coospo can be way out, such as clocking 160BPM for 20 minutes of an hour-long tempo run. If you want gold-standard tracking, this isn’t it. If precise, consistent performance is important to you, it’s worth investing extra in the likes of Garmin, Polar, Wahoo or the MyZone MZ-Switch. 

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Unlike pricier heart rate monitors, the Coospo H808s doesn’t offer any bells and whistles like running dynamics and there’s no onboard memory. So you’ll need to have it paired to a phone, watch or another piece of gym equipment to clock your stats. 

It’s IP67 rated so you’re covered for sweat, downpours and even dips in the pool, though the swim accuracy isn’t as reliable as the likes of the Polar Verity Sense. That’s something most chest straps struggle with, however. 

Overall the Coospo H808s does a solid job for the price. But if you need bulletproof accuracy there are better trackers out there. 

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