ProForm Endurance 520 E Elliptical Review
The ProForm Endurance 520 E is the first entry on the Endurance Series and it’s one of the most inexpensive ellipticals on the market. Today, on the ProForm Endurance 520 E elliptical review we will discuss everything this elliptical trainer has to offer so you can determine if it’s the perfect one for you. The first thing you need to know is that this ProForm elliptical offers low-impact workouts and it comes with nice features that provide great value at this price range.
The entry-level ProForm Endurance 520 E is packed with performance features such as a 19-inch stride length that’s adjustable, a manual incline that goes up to 20 degrees for a nice challenge, 18 resistance levels, 18 workout programs, a 30-day iFit trial membership that provides access to unlimited interactive training sessions, workouts, Google Maps routes, and more. The drawback here is that the 15-pound flywheel is a bit light, which is why this ProForm home elliptical is targeted towards beginners. More advanced users won’t find this exercise machine challenging.
The ProForm Endurance 520 E will allow users not only to lose weight, but also tone muscles thanks to its generous incline. The iFit membership also makes fitness goals a lot easier to reach and overall, this ProForm elliptical machine provides a good challenge for beginners. More advanced users will be better off with other ProForm models, but if you’re looking for an elliptical to get you started without breaking the bank, this could be it. Now, let’s continue with the ProForm Endurance 520 E elliptical review and take a more in-depth look at everything it provides!
| Screen:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | 5"⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Yes⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Wireless | Power Source: | Standard Plugin |
| USB Charging Port: | Yes | Display: | Backlit LCD |
| Drive: | Front | Flywheel Weight: | 15 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 1-Year Parts | 1-Year Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 200 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 69.3” H x 34.4” W x 68.25” L | Speaker: | Yes |
| Max user weight: | 300 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | No |
| Resistance: | 18-Level Magnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | 20° Power Adjustable | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | 19" Fixed | Handlebars: | Without Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | 18 | Better Alternative: | ProForm Endurance 720 E |
ProForm Endurance 520 E Review and Specs:
The ProForm Endurance 520 E offers a user weight capacity of 300 pounds, which is good enough to accommodate a variety of users and also provide stability during the low-impact workouts. The dimensions of the ProForm Endurance 520 E are 69.3” H x 34.4” W x 68.25” L, so it’s not a compact elliptical. However, the size is reasonable for most homes because it has a 8.25″ x 25.7″ footprint.
The ProForm Endurance 520 E is not foldable, so you won’t be able to tuck it away easily. Even so, it’s not difficult to move the machine around or store it if you need to thanks to its transport wheels. It also features a transportation handle so you can grab hold of it and move it easily. This ProForm elliptical has a one-piece, sturdy frame that’s made of steel.
The ProForm Endurance 520 E is 200 pounds and it provides a stable experience for trainees. Even if you weigh a bit more than the user weight capacity, you will still enjoy a workout without any wobble. The ceiling requirements for the ProForm Endurance 502 E dictate your roof should be at least 8 feet tall. Another great thing about the ProForm Endurance 520 E is that it can fit users of up to 6 feet tall thanks to its generous stride length, something that’s not super common for affordable, entry-level ellipticals.
ProForm Endurance 520 Elliptical Monitor
Two inches smaller than the ProForm Endurance 920 E, the ProForm Endurance 520 E elliptical comes with a 5-inch backlit LCD display, which is not super impressive, but it does the job. You will have access to basic stats during your workouts, including distance, time, speed, calories, pulse, resistance, stride, and RPM. One of the best things about the ProForm Endurance 520 E is that it’s iFit-enabled and you’ll get a 30-day free trial. The iFit subscription provides access to unlimited workouts, instructor-led sessions, simulated Google Maps routes, and other great features that will make your fitness journey more pleasant.
If you don’t want to get an iFit membership, this ProForm elliptical will still help you reach your fitness goals. The ProForm Endurance 520 E features 18 workout apps, which include calorie workouts and performance workouts. Each of these workout programs will adjust the resistance level and they will help you be more efficient with your workouts. The workout programs were designed by a certified personal trainer, so you don’t have to figure things out yourself.
All you need to do is choose the workout program that best aligns with your goals, and the machine will automatically adjust everything so all you have to do is get started. The ProForm Endurance 520 E is Bluetooth-enabled, which is how you can connect to your mobile device and use the full power of iFit. Overall, the ProForm Endurance 520 E will challenge you and it provides all the performance features you need to begin your fitness journey right at home.
ProForm Endurance 520 E Stride and Incline
Stride and incline are two of the most important features an elliptical can offer. The stride is responsible for the fit and the incline is responsible for the challenge. At this price range, it’s common to find ellipticals with 18-inch stride lengths, which is an issue for trainees who are 6’ or taller. If the stride length is too short or too long for the users, it will make you move unnaturally, thus creating discomfort and affecting the intensity of the workout.
Luckily, the ProForm Endurance 520 E offers a 19-inch stride length, which is only one inch less than the average for ellipticals. The stride length is fixed in position, but it’s adjustable in reference to the incline. So, when you adjust the incline, the position of the stride will change as well, but the length will remain the same. The stride length of the ProForm Endurance 520 E also provides a great fit for users up to 6’, maybe more if you don’t mind adjusting your stride a bit.
If you’re super tall, you may need an elliptical with a greater stride length, but the ProForm Endurance 520 E will fit most trainees and provide a comfortable experience for them. The ProForm Endurance 520 E features a manual incline that goes up to 20 degrees. This means trainees will be able to adjust the incline very easily and have more control of the challenge, not to mention an incline like this provides more training possibilities. The incline on the ProForm Endurance 520 E will allow you to target your lower-body muscles in different ways to enjoy a more effective muscle tone.
ProForm Endurance 520 E Handlebars and Pedals
As is usual for most advanced elliptical trainers on the market, the ProForm Endurance 520 E comes with two sets of handlebars; fixed handlebars and mobile handlebars. The fixed handlebars feature built-in EKG heart rate sensors that will monitor your heart rate for as long as you hold the handlebars. You can also use them to rest your arms if you don’t want to engage your upper-body for a full-body workout.
The mobile handlebars on the ProForm Endurance 520 E do allow you to engage your upper-body muscles. Though they’re not adjustable, the design is curved and it features angled padding so all users will enjoy perfect grip and remain comfortable during the workouts. Another thing to note about the ProForm Endurance 520 E handlebars is that they don’t feature built-in controls. It would be great to have this feature because you could adjust settings while you’re working out without interruptions. However, all the controls are on the console, which is very easy to access.
The ProForm Endurance 520 E features oversized and cushioned pedals. These pedals will accommodate users of all shoe sizes, which is great because everyone will find a good fit. Plus, the cushioned pedals will feel quite comfortable and they also have a ribbed surface to provide more stability. Unfortunately, the pedals are not adjustable so you won’t be able to try different feet positions.
ProForm Endurance 520 E Accessories and Assembly
One of the best things about the ProForm Endurance 520 E is that it doesn’t only feature great performance features, it also provides many accessories that add even more value to this ProForm elliptical. The ProForm Endurance 520 E comes with a water bottle holder, which is found right under the console for easy access so you can keep yourself hydrated.
The ProForm Endurance 520 E also features a tablet holder so you can use your mobile devices comfortably and access not just iFit workouts but also enjoy your entertainment. Another great thing about the ProForm Endurance 520 E is that it comes with 2-inch speakers that are compatible with smartphones and MP3 devices. This way, you’ll be able to play your favorite music and keep yourself motivated during your workouts.
When it comes to assembly, the ProForm Endurance 520 E is not difficult to put together. It will take up to 2 hours, so it’s quite a process, but it’s straightforward. You will need an extra pair of hands not only to help you save time, but also to lift the machine since it weighs 200 pounds. The assembly manual is detailed and easy to understand. They provide a step-by-step process that’s not difficult to follow and the tools required for assembly. The drive and brake systems are already attached to the frame out of the box, so you’ll have to attach the base, the main handlebar post, the arms, the footplates, the console, and the lateral leg bars.
ProForm Endurance 520 E Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The ProForm Endurance 520 E comes with a decent warranty. They offer 10-year coverage for the frame and 1 year for parts and labor. Now, the warranty on this ProForm elliptical could be better, but considering the price range, it’s alright and it will keep your investment covered. They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can return the elliptical if it’s not up to your standards.
You can find the ProForm Endurance 520 E on Amazon for the price of $599 to $799 and free shipping. Overall, this is a great entry-level machine that won’t break the bank while still providing a ton of value with abundant features and accessories. Of course, some sacrifices are made, but there’s nothing that would be considered a deal-breaker for beginners.
If you ever have any questions or issues, you will be able to contact ProForm’s customer service very easily. Just go to their Contact page whenever you need to find the contact information for the relevant customer service department.
ProForm Endurance 520 E Pros:
- Sturdy, steel frame construction and Affordable price.
- 18 levels of Silent magnetic resistance.
- Manual incline up to 20 degrees.
- 18 Workout programs and 5-inch backlit LCD display.
- iFit-enabled and Bluetooth-enabled.
- 300-pound user weight capacity.
- EKG pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring.
- Fixed and mobile handlebars.
- Oversized and cushioned pedals.
- Tablet holder and Water bottle holder.
- 2-inch speakers, compatible with MP3 players and smartphones.
- USB charging port and Transport wheels.
- Full-body, low-impact workout.
- Straightforward assembly process.
ProForm Endurance 520 E Cons:
- The display is basic.
- No wireless heart rate monitoring.
- No built-in controls on handlebars.
- The warranty could be better.
- The flywheel is on the light side.
Final Verdict and Comparison
As entry-level ellipticals go, the ProForm Endurance 520 E is above average in many ways. Though the flywheel is light at only 15 pounds, beginner trainees will be able to take advantage of the many performances features this elliptical has to offer and reach their fitness goals while enjoying their workouts!
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.
