Matrix Elliptical Trainers - Elite Cardio Machines

Matrix elliptical trainers are quickly making a name for themselves in the high-end cardio machine market with a brand new lineup for the residential market.  With two elite suspension ellipticals and two ascent trainers, along with three different console choices, there is something for everyone if you have the budget.

High End From a Well Regarded Brand

Matrix ellipticals are manufactured by Johnson Health & Fitness, one of the largest exercise equipment companies in the world. The company also makes the popular Horizon and Vision lines.

Previously just a commercial line found in high end health clubs, spas, hotels, YMCA's and universities, the company recently introduced a line of treadmills, ellipticals and indoor exercise bikes for the home market, featuring the same attention to detail, ergonomic design and rock-solid construction.

The current lineup consists of two compact ellipticals and two ascent trainers with four different console choices.

Compact Ellipticals

The compact Matrix ellipticals are exactly that, compact.  They are less than 58" long, which is among the smallest you will find anywhere, especially among commercial grade cardio equipment.

The base E30 model features a fixed 20" stride, 20 levels of resistance, suspension frame, the patented Sprint 8 interval program and iFit interactive workouts.

The up-level E50 model adds 30 levels of resistance, Exact Force Induction brakes for even smoother operation and a stronger warranty, in addition to all of the features found on the Matrix E30.

Ascent Trainers

The Ascent Trainers are the more advanced Matrix ellipticals, offering more freedom of movement as well as the addition of incline capability for further muscle targeting. They have a larger footprint as well and are a bit heavier.

The base A30 model features a 20" - 24" adjustable stride, 20 levels of resistance, PerfectStride Motion, 24-54% incline, the patented Sprint 8 interval program and iFit interactive workouts.

The up-level A50 model adds 30 levels of resistance, Exact Force Induction brakes for even smoother operation and a stronger warranty, in addition to all of the features found on the Matrix A30.

Which Matrix Elliptical Should You Choose?

Fortunately, there aren't that many models to choose from, so it's a little easier to make a decision with Matrix than it is with the other high end brands like Life Fitness and Precor, both of which have pretty extensive lineups.

The Compact line is definitely more affordable, at around $2900-$3500 with the base console. So if budget is an issue, definitely consider these over the Ascent Trainers, which run about $3700-$4300.  They are also much more space friendly and lighter, a better choice for those with limited space in their home gyms.

However, the Ascent Trainers give you much more freedom of movement, and are also a bit smoother and quieter than the Compact Matrix ellipticals.  You get a generous adjustable stride as opposed to a fixed one, and you also get incline capability to ramp up the cardio and muscle targeting.

If you have the budget, you will get more enjoyment out of the Ascent Trainers...but the Compact line is awesome as well, and you certainly won't be disappointed with the E30 or the E50.

What about the four consoles?

Console options are always a nice feature to come across, but that can be a little confusing as well.  Matrix ellipticals come with four possible consoles:  The XR, XER, XIR and XUR. The XR is the base console, and the XER, XIR and XUR are more advanced.

Here's a quick breakdown for you:

XR (Simple)

The basic display is an 8.5" extra wide blue LCD.  Most of the important features are included: ViaFit tracking, Passport videos on your TV, SPrint 8, WiFi enabled and 6 built in workout programs included the patented Sprint 8 program we mention above.

XER (Intuitive)

The step-up display is a 10" touch screen as opposed to the LCD on the XR.  It features Virtual Active, which is the Passport videos on the console itself rather than on your TV only with the XR.  You also get Bluetooth connectivity, Smart phone compatibility, speakers, USB port, all sorts of apps including My Fitness Pal, Netflix and Twitter and a total of 14 built in workouts.

XIR (Excellence)

The XIR has everything the XER has, but features a large 16" HD touch screen instead of the 10" touch screen.  Otherwise, everything is exactly the same.

XUR (Ultimate)

Which Matrix elliptical console should you choose?  The basic XR is just fine as it does include workouts and tracking capability.  However, the XER, XIR & XUR give you many more features and capabilities including more than double the amount of workouts, iFit compatibility, touch screens, Bluetooth capability with all of the latest apps and a speaker system for your music.

The XER console costs an additional $500, the XIR costs an additional $1000 and the XUR an extra $1600.  So it is definitely an added expense, but you may feel it's worth it to get all of the additional features.

Our favorite console? The mid-level XER would be our choice.  The 10" touch screen is large enough for us.  Although the HD 16" screen on the XIR is awesome, it's not 100% necessary. However, if money is no object, by all means go for it.

How does Matrix stack up against competitors?

When it comes to competition, Matrix goes head to head with other commercial brands that have made headway into the home cardio market.

Currently, their competition includes Life Fitness & Precor, but Matrix offers some unique features that the others do not.

Matrix offers different console options on all of their ellipticals, so you can choose a touch screen even on the base E30 model. The others only offer touch screens on their top of the line ellipticals.

Matrix ellipticals are also much more compact than Life Fitness & Precor ellipticals, so they're ideal for those with size constrictions in their workout spaces. Keep in mind Matrix ellipticals are on the heavy side though, so once you place it it's not very easy to move.

Matrix also offers iFIT as we mentioned above, so their workout capabilities are much more comprehensive than the other two.

Matrix Ellipticals - Bottom Line

If you're interested in a Matrix elliptical, Johnson Health runs special sales throughout the year on various models (currently up to $400 off) so take advantage of those reduced prices if possible.

These are very similar to the machines you find in high-end gyms and health clubs, so if you've ever used one there you can expect the same quality workout on their residential units.

The company has great customer service, especially compared to other brands, so buying online is not an issue.  You can always reach the company if you have any questions.

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