ProForm HIIT Trainer Review

The ProForm HIIT Trainer fills a unique role in home gyms, allowing high intensity interval training without the risk of damaging knees and other joints through harsh impact. Some call it a “next generation step machine” because it improves upon the traditional step machine motion by adding a more elliptical footpath. The smooth (yet challenging) lower body exercise is paired with upper body resistance from moving handlebars. Unlike the handlebars on standard elliptical trainers, HIIT handlebars move the trainee through boxing-like motions to amplify their calorie burn. By gripping these handlebars in different ways uses can target-tone different muscle groups in their arms, shoulders, back and core body.

All of which makes the ProForm HIIT Trainer something like an elliptical-stepper hybrid. One option is to use it for traditional aerobic workouts (exercising at a relatively constant pace). Compared with your usual elliptical or stepper training, you can burn more calories thanks to the new pedal and moving handlebar designs. Of course the main attraction of this unit is high intensity interval training (HIIT) that’s still gentle on your joints. There are multiple HIIT apps are programmed into the console computer out of the box and with the addition of iFit ($9.99/month),  new workout routines are available for download at anytime.

This unique cross-trainer has little competition. It does remind us of the Bowflex M3 Max Trainer, which also sells for $999, but the ProForm HIIT Trainer is far superior in terms of workout programming (32 programs versus a mere 2!), resistance settings (24 versus 8) and warranty coverage. The most serious competitor for this machine is the HIIT Trainer Pro ($1499), which has similar performance specs to the original HIIT but also includes a 10” touchscreen with web browser.

The manufacturer’s warranty provides lifetime coverage for the HIIT Trainer’s steel frame, three years for parts, and one year for labor. The factory-direct deal includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ProForm HIIT Trainer - Notable Specs:

Overall Rating:	4-stars
Compact / Folding:	Yes
Incline:	Yes
Stride Length:	N/A
Flywheel:	28 lbs
Programs:	32
Fan:	Yes
Weight Capacity:	350 lbs
Dimensions:	39" L x 29.25" W x 66.7" H

Our Favorite Features

• Total body training for weight management, strength, cardio toning and more
• Low impact pedaling helps maximize calorie burn and minimize risk of exercise-related injury
• High quality pedals are oversized and cushioned to promote comfort and endurance
• Multigrip handlebars with resistance allow for targeted toning of the core, back, shoulders and arms
• Very smooth resistance with 24 settings and a 28-pound flywheel
• Thirty-two workout apps and optional iFit for guidance through aerobic workouts and high intensity interval training
• 7" data display with backlighting is easy to read, and a tablet computer can be attached as an iFit monitor
• Media ledge for holding a tablet computer without obscuring the console display
• iPod compatible sound system
• Compact machine size compared with traditional cross-trainers and treadmills
• A bottle holder and two-speed fan help trainees keep comfortable
• High weight capacity of 350 pounds
• Valuable warranty package on the frame, parts and labor

Our Least Favorite Features

• Fixed stride length and incline instead of variable
• Grip heart rate monitor might give finicky readouts during fast-paced exercise; the wireless monitor on the HIIT Trainer Pro is more reliable

The Bottom Line

The ProForm HIIT Trainer deserves a very positive review. It delivers incredibly impressive HIIT results without risking discomfort and causing downtime from harsh impact. Add in the long menu of workouts, the iPhone-compatible audio, and other extra features, and we’ll happily call the HIIT Trainer a ‘best buy’ at the $999 sale price.