I have been searching online and unable to find what I would consider my ideal machine. I love certain features of the machine I have been using, which is a Weslo that I picked up at Walmart for ~$150. I have attached a picture for reference.

What I like most is the small footprint and the horizontal hand grips. What I hate about it, aside from the creaking, groaning, and squeaking, is the pile of metalic dust I am finding under it when I work out. This thing is going to self destruct leaving me in the middle of winter, addicted to my workouts, and nothing to work out on. If I could find a similar machine, except one built to last, I would be one happy camper.

If I must go with one with vertical hand grips, I have been considering perhaps even a Weslo Air Walker. I have read reviews that suggest these machines are constructed a bit more solid and do not take up much room but I fear I may not get the workout on the air walker that I enjoy. Does anyone have any experience with these or other compact machines they would care to share?

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When it comes to ellipticals sadly you just can't go cheap. That particular brand as well is not sturdy and will not give you the needed support.

The cheapest elliptical I would recommend to buy (and you can look for used as well) is this one...

Ironman Fitness 230E Elliptical

You want at least a 300lbs capacity limit for someone your size. The Weslo Air Walker cannot support you properly.

The only equipment you can go somewhat cheaper with is a bike. They are more sturdy and heavier by nature so can support more capacity. Ellipticals are just to complex of machinery to save bucks on.

Thanks Leigh P. I have not seen any reviews on the machine you mentioned. I take it you are speaking from personal experience as to the quality of the machine?

While cost is always a concern, it is not my primary consideration and used is only an option if it has only been used for decoration because I put a lot of hours on my equipment. If I could find a machine with horizontal handgrips and the small footprint of the machine I currently have I would be willing to pay top dollar if it were quiet and sturdy. One with vertical handgrips I would not be willing to pay as much until I knew whether I would find it as enjoyable for the long run, but the machine you recommended is certainly a reasonable price for a solid machine and worthy of consideration.

I am finding that horizontal handgrips are not very popular. It may not be a real big deal but my main activity in the summertime is kayaking. When I work out on my machine my head gets in a spot where I am on the river working my kayak paddle and it helps pass the time to complete the workout. I just don't know if I would get the same feeling with vertical grips and joining a gym to test out equipment is not an option for me at this time.

I have been looking to buy an elliptical too. I love the ones at my gym but they are very expensive and I wasn't wanting to spend that much. I want a quality machine though and one that is going to last.

Did you buy a new one yet? Any suggestions?

Hi Christy,
My old machine has not fallen apart yet so I am taking my time.

I have not had a chance to try the one Leigh suggested and I want to try it out before serious consideration because I have only found one review and that owner got a lemon.

I also want to try a FitnessQuest Eclipse because these machines are getting good reviews on epinions (and other sites) and they come with a one year garauntee. Going from the reviews, these machines will disappoint you if you are expecting gym quality but I doubt you will find anything of gym quality without paying the price. Several people complained about the squeaks but at least one owner (about my weight, too) was able to quiet it down by re-assembling and making sure all the bolts were very tight. Most people found great customer service so right now I am inclined to try out an 1100HR or 1100HRA. I don't exect it to last a lot longer than the warrenty but by then I should know whether I like it or not!

If anyone has any personal experience with low end compact ellipticals, feel free to weigh in!

Try looking in places like craigslist: san francisco bay area classifieds for jobs, apartments, personals, for sale, services, community, and events for your area - or the classifieds of your local paper - people buy all sorts of exercise equipment at the beginning of the year -then it turns into a drying rack for fine washables... you can sometimes pick up good equipment (gently used) for a really good price