ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainers Comparisons
Are you trying to decide which type of home fitness machine is right for you? Let’s be honest, when we workout from home, we just don’t have the same choices as when we go to a gym, so choosing the right piece of equipment is an important decision to make. Most of us don’t have space for one of each machine so as much as we would love to be able to choose between an elliptical or a stationary bike or a rowing machine for our daily workouts, it just isn’t realistic.
But what if we told you that there is a hybrid machine that gives you the low-impact, full-body workout of an elliptical and the mid-intensity experience of a stationary bike? Enter the ProForm Hybrid Trainer and the ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro. These two ProForm machines are re-inventing the way we think about the limitations of home fitness, and are giving users the optionality of a two-in-one workout experience.
In this article we will examine both of these ProForm Hybrid Trainers, and provide you with a detailed comparison. Read on to compare each machine’s technical specifications, the monitors, the stride and incline, the handlebars and pedals, the accessories and assembly of the machine, and of course, the warranty, price, and shipping. Trying to decide between investing in a stationary bike and an elliptical? Why not get both with the ProForm Hybrid Trainer series from ProForm!
ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainers Compared:
| Review | Image | Pedals | Display | Flywheel | Stride | Resistance | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Hybrid Pro | | Cushioned | Large LCD | 17 Lbs | 17" Fixed | 20 Levels magnetic | 10-year frame and 1-year parts and labor warranty |
| ProForm Hybrid Basic |  | Plastic | Basic LCD | 15 Lbs | 15" Fixed | 16 Levels magnetic | 5-year frame and 90-day parts and labor warranty |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Technical Specifications
When you get a hybrid fitness machine that allows both a stationary bike and a full elliptical, you can expect a fairly large footprint. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer and Hybrid Trainer Pro both measure in at about six feet in length, five feet tall, and two feet in width. Make sure you have ample space in your home set aside to house the ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines! The machines are not light either, as the ProForm Hybrid Trainer weighs about 135 lbs and the Hybrid Trainer Pro weighs about 143 lbs.
One benefit of being a substantially large fitness machine is that the ProForm Hybrid Trainer models allow for a 350 lb maximum suggested weight capacity. When you combine this with the flexibility of using the ProForm Hybrid Trainers as both ellipticals and recumbent, stationary bikes, you can see that users of all shapes and sizes can utilize these machines with comfort and ease.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines are equipped with the same inertia-enhanced, front driven flywheel as its highly rated ProForm Carbon home elliptical line. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro does come with a 15-lb flywheel compared to the 13-lb on the standard ProForm Hybrid Trainer, so expect a slightly higher resistance level with the Pro. Not surprisingly, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro comes with 20 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance, while the Hybrid Trainer only comes with 16.
| Review | Image | Resistance | Capacity | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Hybrid Pro | | 20 Levels magnetic | 350 lbs | 143 lbs | 72.75” L x 24.5” W x 61.0” H |
| ProForm Hybrid Basic | | 16 Levels magnetic | 350 lbs | 135 lbs | 70.5”L x 24.5”W x 60.5”H |
ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Trainer Monitor
More than ever, fitness and technology are being integrated in a way that allows us to connect with virtual trainers and classes from the comfort of our own homes. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines are no different. Both models are fully compatible with ProForm’s iFit premium subscription service, which allows you to tap into iFit’s virtual training classes, as well as tracking your workouts and progress. Each model comes with a 30-day trial iFit subscription, but subsequent monthly payments are required once the trial is over.
Both ProForm Hybrid Trainer models come equipped with a colorful, LCD display which you can use to watch classes and follow along with workouts. The ProForm Hybrid Trainers are both equipped with Bluetooth compatibility to easily connect your smartphone or tablet, and also have the ability to cast your workouts to a big screen smartTV. Users can track progress and vitals through any connected fitness app as well, especially if you do not continue with the iFit membership.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer monitor comes with an integrated sound system as well which makes following along with your favorite iFit trainers and classes a great experience. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines give you the option of connecting your own headphones, or using the 2” speakers that come built-in to the machine console. Finally, no matter how you use the machine, the console and monitor are fully adjustable so you can watch it while standing on the elliptical or sitting in the recumbent bike position.
| Review | Image | Display | Bluetooth | Speakers | iFit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Hybrid Pro | | Large LCD | Yes | Audio Auxiliary Port with Dual 2” Speakers | 30-day trial membership included. Additional costs apply if membership is extended. |
| ProForm Hybrid Basic | | Basic LCD | Yes | Audio Auxiliary Port with Dual 2” Speakers | 30-day trial membership included. Additional costs apply if membership is extended. |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Stride and Incline
The stride is a very important feature in home elliptical machines, and unfortunately, it is one area where the ProForm Hybrid Trainers come up a little short, literally. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer has a 15” non-adjustable stride and the Hybrid Trainer Pro has a 17” non-adjustable stride. While these lengths are fine, the fact that they are non-adjustable does limit users who happen to be taller than average. These stride lengths are shorter than the industry average, particularly the 15” stride of the Hybrid Trainer.
There are no incline measurements listed for the product descriptions of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines, so it is safe to assume that there is no incline adjustment either. While this is never really a game-breaker for users, the added ability to adjust the incline on an elliptical machine helps to increase the variety of exercises for the users, as well as ramp-up the challenge levels.
| Review | Image | Stride | Incline | Step | Fan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Hybrid Pro | | 17” non-adjustable | None | Step up height: 8-12" | No cooling fan |
| ProForm Hybrid Basic | | 15” non-adjustable | None | Step up height: 8-12" | No cooling fan |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Handlebars and Pedals
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines are still home ellipticals at heart, so they still come equipped with two sets of standard handlebars. The first set are located directly below the monitor and are stationary, meaning users can utilize these for stability and specific forms of lower-body workouts. The second set are the mobile handlebars that are located vertically in front of the user, and help to provide the classic elliptical movements.
As with other ProForm elliptical machines, the Hybrid Trainer and Hybrid Trainer Pro come equipped with the EKG Grip Pulse Sensors built into the stationary handlebars. These grip sensors help to keep track of your pulse and heart rate, and the information displays in real-time on the monitor in front of the user.
The pedals on the ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines are completely unique as they can be fully adjusted depending on if you are using the machine as an elliptical or bike. The pedals are oversized as well to ensure that users feel safe and stable during a workout, no matter how they are utilizing the machine.
| Review | Image | Cranks | Backrest | Controls | Handlebars | Pedals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Hybrid Pro | | Wide | Cushion | No controls on the handlebars | Moving and Stationary | With cushion |
| ProForm Hybrid Basic | | Narrow | Mesh | No controls on the handlebars | Moving and Stationary | Without cushion |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Accessories and Assembly
While ProForm has included some accessories with the Hybrid Trainer and Hybrid Trainer Pro machines, it is a testament to their quality that most things other brands consider accessories, come standard on these models. ProForm does provide a nice water bottle holder so users can stay hydrated throughout their workouts, as well as convenient front-mounted transport wheels that help make it easier to move the machine around.
Both ProForm Hybrid Trainer models come equipped with ProForm’s patented tablet holder with Device Grip Design, which allows users to safely attach and integrate their smart device to their workout. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer also comes equipped with a comfortable and fully adjustable seat for recumbent bike usage.
Assembly for the ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines is standard for home fitness equipment, and should take a normal person about 1-2 hours to complete. All of the necessary parts and instruction manuals are included, and there are numerous instructional videos that can be found online. As with most fitness equipment, it can be completed by one person, but it definitely helps to have a second person to assist with moving the ProForm Hybrid Trainers around the house.
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Price, Warranty, and Shipping
Now for one of the most appealing features of the ProForm Hybrid Trainers: their price. Considering you are getting two fitness machines in one, as well as the full connectivity and technology options, the ProForm Hybrid Trainers carry an extremely reasonable price tag. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer will run you about $799 and the Hybrid Trainer Pro is slightly more at $1049, but neither price is outlandish given what they provide.
The warranties offered by ProForm for the Hybrid Trainers are good, not great, but one thing to take note of is that the warranty length seems to be different depending on which site you visit. For the ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pro, the ProForm website states it offers a 10-year frame warranty, but if you visit Amazon, it states a lifetime frame warranty. Always check with the retailer before purchase, but if that is what is stated, why not take the lifetime warranty? The ProForm Hybrid Trainer has a 5-year frame warranty and 90-days parts and labor in comparison.
Shipping for the ProForm Hybrid Trainer machines also depends on where you order from, but the ProForm site does offer free shipping to the continental United States. As with most ProForm products, they do offer region-specific sites you can order from if you live in the United States, Canada, France, United Kingdom, Italy, or Australia.
| Review | Image | Price | Warranty | Assembly | Shelf | Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Hybrid Pro | | $1049 | 10-year frame and 1-year parts and labor warranty | Moderate | Tablet shelf included | L x W x H 48.5 x 24.5 x 18 inches |
| ProForm Hybrid Basic | | $799 | 5-year frame and 90-day parts and labor warranty | Moderate | Tablet shelf included | L x W x H 48.5 x 24.5 x 18 inches |
Why are ProForm Hybrid Trainers Right For You?
Once again, ProForm offers high quality machines, with cutting-edge technology at a reasonable, consumer-friendly price point. The ProForm Hybrid line of home fitness machines gives you the flexibility of having access to both an elliptical and a recumbent, stationary bike, all in one machine.
Both ProForm Hybrid Trainer models are fully compatible with the iFit home trainer subscription service which can truly take your workouts to the next level. Connect to virtual fitness instructors and join in to global workout classes all from the comfort of your own home, and track your progress with any connected fitness app for your smartphone or tablet.
ProForm also gives users peace of mind with their solid reputation of customer service and strong warranties that let users know their investment is protected. With a ProForm home fitness machine, you know you are getting a high performance unit, with a name brand that is trusted across the fitness world. If you can’t decide between an elliptical or a stationary bike, why not get both with the ProForm Hybrid Trainer line.
Final Verdict on the ProForm Hybrid Trainers
With only two available models in the ProForm Hybrid Trainer line, you really cannot go wrong. The Pro version comes equipped with a slightly larger flywheel, and a longer stride length, which could make the slight bump up in price worth every penny. Much of the other functions are identical on both the ProForm Hybrid Trainer and the Hybrid Trainer Pro, so those who are serious about their elliptical workouts, may opt to pay the extra $250 for the Pro model. That would be our suggestion as well. For a minimal increase in price, users get a much more robust elliptical experience, especially if you are a taller person.
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.
