ProForm Pro 12.9 Elliptical Review, Pros, Cons
The ProForm Pro 12.9 is the second entry on the ProForm Pro Series after the Pro 9.9 elliptical and it’s one of the top affordable performers out there, perfect for people who want access to effective and powerful features without breaking the bank. In fact, this ProForm elliptical is one of the most popular ones because it’s heavy-duty, durable, and provides the right accessories for entertainment and comfort. Not to mention it’s a challenge for all fitness levels and it can accommodate a variety of users. Today, we’re going to do a full ProForm Pro 12.9 review and discover everything this machine has to offer!
This ProForm elliptical trainer is a great option for many reasons, so let’s start with the features. It comes with a 32-pound flywheel, 26 resistance levels, 35 workout programs, a 20-inch stride length, a power incline that goes up to 20 percent, multi-position mobile handlebars, fixed handlebars, oversized pedals, a 7-inch touchscreen display, and so much more. It also comes with great accessories that will add to your comfort, it’s iFit-enabled, easy to assemble, and the warranty is quite decent.
The ProForm Pro 12.9 elliptical is a great option for people who want to burn calories, tone muscles, and work on endurance all while having a good time. It makes it easier for users to reach their fitness goals not only by providing great performance features, but also by providing a challenge that you’ll be able to personalize. Not to mention iFit offers a ton of training guidance, which is something many users will be grateful for. Now, let’s continue with this ProForm Pro 12.9 review and do a deep dive into the features that make this elliptical such a valuable option.
| Screen:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | 7"⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Yes⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Wireless | Power Source: | Standard Plugin |
| USB Charging Port: | Yes | Display: | Touchscreen |
| Drive: | Front | Flywheel Weight: | 32 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 2-Year Parts | 1-Year Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 289 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 80.3" L x 25.7" W x 64.4" H | Speaker: | Yes |
| Max user weight: | 350 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | Yes |
| Resistance: | 26-Level Magnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | 20° Power Adjustable | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | 20" Fixed | Handlebars: | Without Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | 35 | Better Alternative: | ProForm Pro 16.9 |
ProForm Pro 12.9 Review and Specs:
The ProForm pro 12.9 provides a weight capacity of 350 pounds. This is great because it doesn’t only accommodate a variety of users, but it also provides a more stable workout experience for everyone. Many elliptical home trainers at this price range offer a weight capacity of 300 pounds while commercial-grade ellipticals offer up to 400 pounds, so this is a great weight capacity.
This ProForm elliptical comes with a heavy-duty frame and you’ll be happy to know the ProForm Pro 12.9 has a small footprint of 25.75” W x 79.75” D x 66.25” H. If you don’t have much room to spare in your home gym, this elliptical trainer could be the perfect one for you. The ProForm Pro 12.9 is not foldable, so don’t expect to be able to tuck this elliptical away whenever you need. However, it features transport wheels, so it will be easy to move around and it won’t take as much space as other elliptical options out there.
The ProForm Pro 12.9 has a height capacity of 5’3” to 6’, so it can accommodate small and tall users. But if you’re taller than 6’, you may not be super comfortable with the stride length this elliptical has to offer. The ProForm Pro 12.9 has a ceiling height requirement of at least 8 feet, so you can be comfortable during your workouts.
ProForm Pro 12.9 Elliptical Monitor
The ProForm Pro 12.9 comes with a 7-inch touchscreen display that will allow you to keep track of all your stats very easily. One of the best things about this ProForm elliptical trainer is that it provides many options for you to maximize your workout time, no matter your fitness level. The ProForm Pro 12.9 features 35 workout programs and they were all designed by a fitness professional. Each workout program will automatically adjust the incline so you can enjoy the benefits of the kind of workout you’ve chosen.
Another great thing about the ProForm Pro 12.9 is that it’s iFit-enabled and a 1-year family membership is included with your purchase. This provides access to unlimited workouts and fitness tools that will help you set and reach your fitness goals. You will be able to enjoy HD video workouts, personal training, and interactive workouts made with Google Maps so you can immerse yourself in the predetermined routes available or create your own routes.
iFit provides a ton of value to this elliptical and it’s great that they provide a 1-year membership because you’ll be able to try it out and see if you like it. But if you decide iFit is not for you after that free year and you cancel your subscription, you won’t need it to unlock the full potential of the elliptical. The ProForm Pro 12.9 offers heart rate monitoring with EKG grip pulse sensors located in the fixed handlebars, and wireless heart rate monitoring, with a chest strap included.
ProForm Pro 12.9 Stride and Incline
The stride and incline are two of the most important features for an elliptical trainer and ProForm knows this, so they offer great quality. The ProForm Pro 12.9 stride length is 20 inches, which is ideal for ellipticals and it’s what allows users from 5’3” to 6’ to be comfortable using the machine. It’s the perfect size for many users, so this machine will do well if there are multiple users under one roof. The stride length on the ProForm Pro 12.9 is also adjustable by adjusting the incline, which is a plus.
The ProForm Pro 12.9 has a power incline of 0 to 20 degrees, and it’s adjustable by using the display buttons. It will also automatically adjust according to the workout program you choose. The incline is what changes the slope of the elliptical path, which helps you have a more challenging workout. It’s thanks to the incline that you’re able to target different muscle groups and it’s a great way to cross-train, which means you’ll get a lot more out of your workout than you usually would.
With the ProForm Pro 12.9 you’ll be able to mimic uphill and downhill motion, so it adds to the challenge, and it also allows you to immerse yourself a lot more in the iFit trails you choose because it will feel like the real thing. Overall, the stride length and incline on this ProForm elliptical are outstanding and you’ll be happy with the versatility these features allow you to enjoy.
ProForm Pro 12.9 Handlebars and Pedals
The handlebars and pedals are also essential features to one’s comfort while using the elliptical and it can also add versatility to the workouts. The ProForm Pro 12.9 comes with two sets of handlebars; a set of fixed handlebars and a set of mobile handlebars. The fixed handlebars will allow you to rest your arms if you don’t want to engage in a full-body workout. These handlebars also feature the EKG pulse sensors, so as long as you’re holding them, they will measure your heart rate so you can monitor it on the display.
The mobile set of handlebars are multi-grip and soft grip, so they’re not only comfortable, they also allow you to try different grip positions. This will help you target different upper-body muscles, such as the arms, shoulders, back, and even your core, depending on how you grasp the mobile handlebars while you work out. The only drawback to the ProForm Pro 12.9 mobile handlebars is that they don’t feature built-in controls.
When it comes to pedals, the ProForm Pro 12.9 features oversized, adjustable, and cushioned pedals. They will fit all foot sizes and they’re also super comfortable thanks to the cushioning, which is important for long workout sessions. The pedals also allow you to choose from three different toe-heel angles so you can find the most comfortable position for you. Overall, the ProForm Pro 12.9 handlebars and pedals are great and they allow users not only to enjoy a full-body workout, but also to avoid discomfort and injuries.
ProForm Pro 12.9 Accessories and Assembly
The ProForm Pro 12.9 is not only full of features that will help you reach your fitness goals, but it also comes with accessories that will entertain you and help you have fun while you workout. Not to mention these accessories also add to your comfort! The ProForm Pro 12.9 comes with a built-in tablet holder that’s positioned above the console so you can easily use your tablet to watch videos, TV shows, movies, etc.
The ProForm Pro 12.9 also comes with 2-inch speakers that are compatible with iPod and MP3 players so you can play your favorite tunes and keep your motivation high. Another great thing about the ProForm Pro 12.9 is that it has a 2-speed workout fan and a water bottle holder. This way, you’ll be able to keep yourself hydrated and cool while you work out. There’s also a USB charging port on the ProForm Pro 12.9, which is a good plus to have.
ProForm ellipticals are well-known, not just for the great value they offer at an affordable price, but also because they’re simplified the assembly process greatly. The assembly process for the ProForm Pro 12.9 is quite straightforward and the instructions provide all the assistance you need. This will take 30 to 45 minutes of your time and you may need an extra pair of hands because the machine is heavy at 289 pounds.
ProForm Pro Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The ProForm Pro 12.9 provides a decent warranty, so your investment will be covered. They offer a 10-year warranty for the frame, 2-year warranty for parts, and 1-year warranty for labor. Honestly, the warranty could be better, especially considering this price range. Other ProForm ellipticals offer at least lifetime coverage for the frame, so that’s something to keep in mind. The warranty is not awful, of course, so it’s not a deal-breaker. They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you have any issues or are not satisfied with the product.
You will find the ProForm Pro 12.9 on their website for $1,499 and you’ll have the option to pay $84 per month for 18 months. If you complete the payments within 18 months, they won’t charge you any interest. They also offer free shipping for the ProForm Pro 12.9, which is always great.
The ProForm Pro 12.9 is a premium elliptical available at an affordable price and they also provide payment options that make it easier for you to make the investment. You’ll also be able to contact ProForm’s customer service whenever you need. You just have to go to their Contact page and find the appropriate department for whatever issue or inquiry you may have. It’ll be easy to contact them and they will answer as soon as possible.
ProForm Pro 12.9 Elliptical machine Pros:
- Full-body workout and Quick assembly.
- 26 resistance levels and Heavy-duty frame.
- 35 workout programs and 32-pound flywheel.
- 20-inch stride length and powered incline up to 20 percent.
- Multi-grip mobile handlebars and Fixed handlebars.
- Pulse sensors on the fixed handlebars.
- Wireless heart rate monitoring and Chest strap included.
- Cushioned, oversized, and adjustable pedals.
- 7-inch touchscreen display and iFit-enabled.
- iFit 1-year family membership included and Tablet holder.
- Water bottle holder and 2-inch speakers.
- Compatible with iPod and MP3 players.
- Two-speed cooling fan and USB charging port.
ProForm Pro 12.9 Elliptical Machine Cons:
- The frame is not foldable.
- The warranty could be better.
- No built-in controls on handlebars.
Final Verdict and Comparison
The ProForm Pro 12.9 is a great elliptical option for users of all fitness levels. It has great performance features that will allow people to challenge themselves and reach their fitness goals a lot more effectively. It’s durable, high-quality, comfortable, adjustable, and versatile, so it’s a great option to consider!
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.
