ProForm SMART HIIT Trainer Review

The ProForm SMART HIIT trainer allows 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, you can target-tone different muscle groups in your arms, shoulders, back and core body. All of this makes the ProForm HIIT Trainer something like an elliptical-stepper hybrid. 

One option is to use it for traditional aerobic workouts where you exercise at a relatively constant pace. Even so, compared with your usual elliptical or stepper training, you can burn more calories thanks to its pedal and moving handlebar designs.

Of course the main attraction of this unit is high intensity interval training (HIIT) that’s still gentle on the joints. There are multiple HIIT apps programmed into the console to help vary your routines from the get-go. What’s more, the free 1-year iFit membership included with the machine means you can try new workouts every day. Just dock your tablet or smartphone on the trainer’s tablet holder and get to work!

This unique cross-trainer has little competition. It does remind us of the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 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 ProForm SMART HIIT Trainer Pro which ProForm is now offering for free if you purchase a 3-year iFit membership (for $39 per month totaling $1,403). It has similar performance specs to the original HIIT trainer, but also includes a 10” touchscreen.

The manufacturer’s warranty provides 10 years of coverage for the HIIT Trainer’s steel frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor. The factory-direct deal also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ProForm SMART HIIT Trainer - Notable Specs:

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
• 32 built-in workout apps and a year’s free membership to iFit for an unlimited library of workouts
• 7″ backlit data display is easy to read
• Tablet holder to dock your device and use as an iFit monitor
• Built-in sound system allows you to plug in your device and listen to your top workout playlists through the set of speakers
• 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

Our Least Favorite Features:

• Fixed stride lengths 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 or harsh impact on your joints. 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 its $999 sale price.