ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Review: Is It Worth Buying?

ProForm is a well-known company that retails both home and commercial exercise equipment, including cardio and strength training machines.

The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is a 2-in-1 machine that can be used as either a recumbent bike or elliptical trainer, allowing for a seated or standing cardio experience.

The recumbent bike portion of the hybrid trainer has an adjustable cushioned seat that includes back support and a set of handlebars.

Meanwhile, the elliptical offers moving handlebars and oversized, adjustable pedals, which are suited for various foot sizes and positions.

At the center of the machine is an LCD, which you can adjust to make your stats easily visible regardless of which mode you’re using.

One thing to note is that due to the hybrid design, pedaling on the recumbent bike involves an elliptical-style gliding motion rather than a traditional stationary bike circular movement.

How to use the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT

One common complaint of the Hybrid Trainer XT is that it’s difficult to assemble. Several reviewers note that setting it up takes quite a bit of time and is a two-person job.

Keep in mind that if you’re not up to the challenge, ProForm offers expert assembly at an additional cost.

Once your machine is installed, using it’s fairly straightforward thanks to its user-friendly LCD.

Transitioning from the bike to the elliptical is also simple and involves just three quick steps:

1. Place the elliptical pedals over the bike pedals.
2. Move the console up.
3. Step onto the pedals and start moving.

When you’re ready to start cycling again, simply move the bike pedals up and lower the console back down.

Key specs of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer include:

• Required floor space: 24.5 x 70.5 inches (62.2 x 179 cm)
• Weight: 117 pounds (53.1 kg)
• Flywheel weight: 13 pounds (5.9 kg)
• Maximum user weight: 350 pounds (158.8 kg)

It’s important to note that the stride length of the elliptical is only 15 inches (38.1 cm), which isn’t suitable for adults over 5’7″ (170.2-cm) tall.

The frame of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer is made from sturdy steel and equipped with wheels on the front, making it easy to move around.

The machine is also equipped with an LCD for monitoring your heart rate, speed, calories burned, distance, and duration.

While it doesn’t offer a built-in touch screen, the hybrid trainer does include a tablet holder and iFit integration, allowing you to stream live and on-demand classes using your own device.

Other notable features include:

• 16 preset workouts
• an audio auxiliary port
• a dual speaker system
• handlebar pulse sensors
• a water bottle holder

The machine also offers 16 levels of resistance, though several reviewers note that the resistance levels don’t provide enough challenge for more serious exercisers.

Furthermore, despite having a Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) system, the trainer can make squeaking or clicking sounds during workouts. This is likely due to the machine having a relatively light flywheel.

The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT retails for $599 with free shipping. Expert in-home assembly is optional and costs an additional $199.

Subject to credit approval, ProForm also offers special financing options with 0% APR.

The included warranty covers the frame for 5 years and parts and labor for 90 days. There’s also an option to purchase a 3-year extended warranty for an additional $149.99.

For access to the iFit app, you’ll need to subscribe to iFit, which costs $39 per month or $396 per year for a family plan.

Lastly, if you decide the hybrid trainer is not for you, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Reviews on the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT are mixed.

Happy customers appreciate the versatility of having an elliptical and recumbent bike in one machine, especially at an affordable price.

Meanwhile, many of the negative reviews mention that the machine is locked when they first start to use it or that they’re required to sign up for an iFit subscription.

However, other customers note that you can fix this glitch by holding down the iFit Bluetooth button for a few seconds.

Other common complaints include disappointment in the lack of backlighting on the display screen, dissatisfaction with ProForm’s customer service, and discomfort due to the elliptical’s short stride length.

While there’s an overwhelming number of ellipticals and recumbent bikes on the market, options for hybrid trainers are quite limited.

Here’s how the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT stacks up against its two main competitors:

Compared with similar hybrid trainers on the market, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer is more expensive, heavier, and takes up more space.

It also offers one fewer cardio modalities than the other hybrid options.

However, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer has several advantages over the other options, including a longer warranty, higher max weight capacity, and iFit integration.

The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT offers a convenient option if you’re interested in both an elliptical and recumbent bike but don’t have the space or budget for two machines.

However, because users report that the resistance levels aren’t particularly challenging, the machine is best suited for beginners.

Furthermore, the elliptical’s short stride length makes it uncomfortable for people over 5’7″ (170.2-cm) tall.

While it’s relatively affordable, keep in mind that you’ll also need to budget for a monthly iFit membership if you want access to live and on-demand fitness classes.

It also lacks many of the high tech features found in other cardio machines on the market.

Overall, the trainer is worth considering if it fits your workout needs, budget, and height.

The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is an affordable option if you’re interested in both elliptical and recumbent-bike-style workouts.

Plus, with 16 resistance levels and 16 preset programs, the trainer is suitable for beginners or those interested in a low impact cardio workout.

What’s more, the machine is iFit-enabled for access to live and on-demand classes.

Still, there are several downsides to consider, including the short stride length, light flywheel, and limited training options.

Therefore, especially if you’re taller or looking for a more challenging workout, you’re better off investing in a good quality bike or elliptical machine.