Cybex Arc Trainer Elliptical/Stepper

If the budget for your elliptical/stepper fitness machine is not too much of a problem, you might like to think about a top-of-the-range model, the Cybex 360 A Arc Trainer.

There is some debate as to whether it is a true elliptical stepper. Cybex claim that their machine is not an elliptical, because it is designed to move through an arc rather than an ellipse - which Cybex say puts less strain on the knees, hips and back.

They don't even want it called a stepper, because it does not operate with a true climbing motion.   Whatever the finer details are of what Cybex calls Same Side Forward or SSF technology, this fitness machine effectively operates as an elliptical, a stepper and a glider, all in one.

The Cybex name is well know in Europe but less so in the United States.   The company makes very high-quality machines, which are also used by commercial gym owners.

There are some downsides to the quality.   The machines are big and heavy, even the one designed for the home market (the Cybex 360A Arc Trainer).

The plus side is that the very heavy flywheel makes for an exceptionally smooth machine that is an absolute pleasure to use, and which will last for years.

Size is 71 inches x 29 inces x 62 inches.   The machine weights 293 pounds and is suitable for a user weighting up to 300 pounds.  There are warranties of 10 years for the frame, 5 years for the parts and a year for labor.

Price:  About $3500