Body-Solid BFCT1 Elliptical Review (Updated in 2021)
Overview
The Body Solid BFCT1 is the first entry in the Best Fitness Series and it’s the perfect cross trainer for anyone who wants to enjoy low-impact cardio workouts in the comfort of their own home. If you don’t have much space in your home gym, don’t worry! The Body Solid BFCT1 cross trainer is as compact as it gets and it won’t be difficult to find the perfect spot for it.
The Body Solid BFCT1 elliptical machine is lacking connectivity and accessories, but it makes up for it by providing the best features to help you reach your fitness goals. The Body-Solid BFCT1 home elliptical is on the basic side, but it’s still a sturdy and effective machine. Among the features, we have synchronized arms that will engage your upper body, 8 levels of resistance, an LCD console where you can keep track of all your stats, it will also measure your body fat, BMI, and BMR, there’s also heart rate control, and much more.
On today’s Body Solid BFCT1 review we will take a deep look into what this machine has to offer. The Body Solid BFCT1 elliptical is definitely worth your consideration because it’s super affordable and even though it’s quite basic, it performs very well and it can help you increase your fitness level. Overall, the Body Solid BFCT1 cross trainer is a great option for cardio lovers who want to engage their entire body without any risk of injury.
| Console:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Yes⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | No⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse | Power Source: | Batteries |
| USB Charging Port: | No | Display: | No Backlit |
| Drive: | Rear, Belt | Flywheel Weight: | N/A |
| Warranty: | 1-Year Parts | 90-Day Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 97 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 45 L x 26 W x 66 H | Speaker: | No |
| Max user weight: | 225 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | No |
| Resistance: | 8 levels, magnetic | Media Shelf: | No |
| Incline Ramp: | Fixed | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | 12" Fixed | Handlebars: | No Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | No | Verdict: | Good Value Under $500 |
Body Solid BFCT1 Review and Specs:
The Body Solid BFCT1 has a maximum user weight capacity of 225 pounds which is just right. It provides a smooth and stable workout, and it’s also a very quiet machine. This makes it perfect for a home gym because you won’t disturb anyone during your workout sessions. The Body Solid BFCT1 dimensions are 45 L x 26 W x 66 H and it has a 3×4 feet footprint. This means the machine is incredibly compact and it takes very little space, so it will be perfect for any space.
The Body Solid BFCT1 features transport wheels and it only weighs 106 pounds, so it will be super easy to move around when you need to. The Body Solid BFCT1 is not foldable, so you won’t be able to fold it and tuck it away easily. But because it’s so compact, you will still be able to store it without too much trouble. You want to place the Body Solid BFCT1 in a room with a ceiling that’s at least 17 inches taller than you are.
The Body Solid BFCT1 requires an outlet for the electricity plug, which is something to keep in mind when you’re looking for the right spot for it. Overall, this machine is a great option for any home gym and it will take very little effort for you to find a spot for it. In the rest of this Body Solid BFCT1 review we will take a look at the best features this machine has to offer so you can determine if this is the right addition to your home gym.
Body Solid BFCT1 Monitor
The Body Solid BFCT1 doesn’t provide any workout programs and it doesn’t have user profiles, speakers, a charging port, or Bluetooth connectivity. But don’t let this deter you from considering this cross trainer! It’s a great machine and it has a lot to offer even if it lacks certain things. The Body Solid BFCT1 features a multi-window LCD display where you can keep track of all your metrics. Including time, calories, distance, speed, and pulse. It will even provide a temperature reading, which you can set to your specific needs.
The Body Solid BFCT1 also offers heart rate control but it’s not telemetric. This means it’s not compatible with chest straps, but the Body Solid BFCT1 features pulse sensors on the stationary handlebars so you can keep track of your heart rate this way. Even though this exercise machine doesn’t offer preset workouts, the Body Solid BFCT1 allows you to set goals for calories, time, and distance, so you can still challenge yourself and keep track of your progress as well.
Another great thing about the Body Solid BFCT1 console is that it can measure your body fat, BMI, and BMR. BMI stands for Body Mass Index, which is a statistical measurement of someone’s body fat based on weight and height. This feature won’t actually measure your body fat, but it will estimate a healthy body weight for you, so it can help you identify weight problems. BMR stands for Basal Metabolic Rate and it will determine your daily calorie needs. This feature is amazing and it’s not something all cross trainers provide!
Body Solid BFCT1 Stride and Incline
The Body Solid BFCT1 has a fixed stride length of 12 inches, which is rather disappointing even if this is an inexpensive machine. The stride is very small, which means it won’t fit tall users. It’s perfect for small users, though it would be better if it could accommodate a wider variety of trainees. Even so, the Body Solid BFCT1 is the perfect option for people who want to remain active and don’t mind the limitations of the stride. A small stride means you won’t be able to enjoy super intense workouts, but it will help you get off your feet and have a good low-impact workout.
The Body Solid BFCT1 doesn’t have an incline, which is something to keep in mind. The elliptical path on the Body Solid BFCT1 is slightly inclined forward, so it will give you the impression you’re going down a soft hill. The Body Solid BFCT1 also features a perimeter flywheel that’s weighted so it generates some momentum and it allows your pedaling motion to be steadier. They don’t specify the weight of the flywheel, but it must be around 20 pounds. Another great thing is that the Body Solid BFCT1 flywheel allows users to pedal in reverse.
The Body Solid BFCT1 offers 8 levels of resistance but they provide little pedal tension, which means the machine is super low-impact and it’s the best option for recovery training. The Body Solid BFCT1 features a belt drive system, which makes the machine low-maintenance so it won’t require internal lubrication. Plus, it’s what makes the machine quiet and smooth, since it doesn’t produce too much vibration.
Body Solid BFCT1 Handlebars and Pedals
The Body Solid BFCT1 features two sets of handlebars, a set of stationary handlebars and a set of moving handlebars. The moving handlebars are long, going up to 66 inches at the top and they feature ball grips. The Body Solid BFCT1 offers synchronized arms that allow you to engage your upper body very easily. The stationary handlebars on the Body Solid BFCT1 are multi-grip and they feature the pulse sensors that will allow you to keep track of your heart rate.
The Body Solid BFCT1 also offers pedals made of a nylon material that’s super heavy-duty. These pedals have a non-slip surface for your safety and comfort, as well as an inner border to provide more foot stability. The Body Solid BFCT1 step-up height is of 8 inches, but the maximum elevation is 10 inches. One of the drawbacks of the Body Solid BFCT1 pedals is that they’re not cushioned and they don’t offer articulation. This means they don’t have shock absorption like most ellipticals, but pedaling motion will still be low-impact.
Overall, the Body Solid BFCT1 handlebars and pedals are great features and they offer all the comfort and functionality you need. They make your performance not only comfortable and safe, but also effective. Handlebars and pedals are important to the performance of any exercise machine and even though this is a rather basic model, you won’t be disappointed with these features.
Body Solid BFCT1 Accessories and Assembly
As mentioned before, the Body Solid BFCT1 is a simple machine that doesn’t provide many accessories. It doesn’t have a tablet holder, a phone holder, a water bottle holder, and it doesn’t feature any speakers, cooling fans, or connectivity options. That’s something to keep in mind and even though it’s disappointing, you have to remember this is a super low-impact machine. That means that it’s meant for recovery training more than anything else, so you won’t miss these accessories when you’re using it for that purpose.
The Body Solid BFCT1 assembly is quite straightforward and it won’t be difficult for anyone to follow the instructions and put it together. We recommend you get an extra pair of hands to help you get everything done so the process takes less time. The Body Solid BFCT1 comes with some pre-assembled things, including the flywheel, belt, crank, and resistance system.
This means you’ll only have to attach the base stabilizers to the main body, as well as the pedals, pedal bars, console mast, moving arms, stationary handlebars, and console. The Body Solid BFCT1 assembly manual is super easy to follow and it provides clear instructions. The step-by-step instructions make everything easy and they also provide all the tools you need. The maintenance for the Body Solid BFCT1 is quire simple and it only requires lubrication from time to time and checking for loose parts or bolts.
Body Solid BFCT1 Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The Body Solid BFCT1 warranty is very good and it provides 5-year coverage for the frame and motor, if applicable, 1-year coverage for parts and electronics, 3-months coverage for wear parts, and 90-days for labor. The purchase receipt provides proof of the date of purchase and the warranty extends only to the person who purchased the machine. It’s not transferable and it excludes paint and finish, which is something to keep in mind.
You can find the Body Solid BFCT1 on Amazon and other retailers as well and they often provide free shipping. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the Body Solid BFCT1 is $842 but you can find it for $820 or for as little as $650, depending on the retailer. So, we recommend you take your time considering all the options and doing your research. This way, you can get the best possible deal for the machine.
Body Solid provides great customer service as well. If you need any customer support you can call them at 800-556-3113 where they’ll be available for technical support from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm CST. You can also send them an email at service@bodysolid.com in case you’re having issues with the equipment.
Body Solid BFCT1 Pros
- Smooth performance and compact size.
- Super inexpensive and Full-body workout.
- Synchronized arms for upper body workout.
- Transport wheels and LED console.
- Great warranty for this price range.
- Heart rate control with contact sensor.
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance.
- Sturdy steel frame with plastic covering.
- Goal setting for distance, calories, and time.
- It provides a quiet workout.
- It requires little maintenance.
- It features a recovery function.
- Large, durable pedals and balanced flywheel.
Body Solid BFCT1 Cons
- Provides only basic features.
- Doesn’t fit tall people.
- No workout programs.
- No speakers.
- No cooling fans.
- No tablet holder.
- No charging port.
- No Bluetooth.
- No incline.
Body Solid BFCT1 Final Verdict
The bottom line for the Body Solid BFCT1 is that it’s perfect for beginners and for people who need a recovery exercise machine. It’s low-impact and it’s super easy to use as well. The Body-Solid BFCT1 lacks accessories but it’s super compact, it provides 8 levels of resistance, it’s stable, sturdy, quiet and smooth. It also allows you to set goals, measure your BMI and BMR, keep track of all your metrics, and more. Overall, it’s a great option to consider and it’s available at an affordable price.
| Review | Image | Verdict | Price | Capacity | Display | Resistance | Programs | Stride | Holder | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Solid BFE1 Elliptical |  | Good Value | Check on Amazon | 225 Lbs | 5-Window LCD | 8 Manual Magnetic Levels | No Built-in Workouts | 12" Fixed | No bottle or tablet holder | 45” x 26” x 66” | 97 lbs |
| Body Solid BFE2 Elliptical |  | Good Value | Check on Amazon | 275 Lbs | 5-Window LED | 15 Electromagnetic Levels | 12 Built-in Workouts | 18" Fixed | Bottel & tablet holders | 48” x 30” x 66” | 182 lbs |
| Body Solid E300 Elliptical |  | Great Value | Check on Amazon | 300 Lbs | 2-window LED | 20 Electromagnetic Levels | 7 Built-in Workouts | 21" Fixed | Bottel & tablet holders | 50” x 31” x 66” | 232 lbs |
| Body Solid E400 Elliptical |  | Great Value | Check on Amazon | 300 Lbs | 2-window LED | 20 Electromagnetic Levels | 12 Built-in Workouts | 17"-23" Manual | Bottel & tablet holders | 50” x 31” x 66” | 244 lbs |
| Body Solid E5000 Elliptical |  | Good Value | Check on Amazon | 325 Lbs | 2-window LED | 20 Electromagnetic Levels | 12 Built-in Workouts | 21" Fixed | Bottel & tablet holders | 68” x 31” x 69” | 249 lbs |
Sayed Hamed Hosseiny
Hi, my name is Sayed Hamed Hosseiny. I am a professional health and fitness trainer with nearly 20 years of experience using ellipticals, rowing machines, and spin bikes. I also have my own EU-based Rock Fitness Pro fitness brand where I design, import and sell exercise equipment such as rowing machines and spin bikes. I and writers on my team also often receive fitness equipment to review and evaluate their functionalities and performance from tens of different exercise machines manufacturers. Fitness equipment tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on this website are my opinion (and opinions of my fitness expert colleagues) based on tens of criteria. I never accept payment to write reviews of products or say positive things about fitness equipment products. If brands are interested to have me review their rowers, ellipticals, or spin bikes, they can get in touch with me via email provided on the contact page and send a sample of their product.