Meet the Equipment Judge:

Lynn Allen, an exercise-equipment expert and Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association consultant, designed the White House exercise room for Bill Clinton.

Treadmill (under $1,500)

Horizon Fitness’ RCT7.6 ($1,299)

This machine is all about ease and comfort. The adjustable screen is easy to see from any angle, and you can change the speed and incline right on the handlebars. The gel-cushioned landing pad is easy on your feet and knees.

Treadmill (over $1,500)

PaceMaster Gold Elite Fold-Up ($2,499)

Proof that you can get high quality in a foldaway machine. Shock-absorbing components take the oomph out of landing, and an interactive program evaluates your fitness level and helps you set goals. Feedback includes the standard distance, time, intensity, and calories burned.

Elliptical Trainer (under $1,500)

Horizon Fitness’ PSE7 Elliptical ($1,499)

The pivoting footpads on this model make for a more natural stride, and the pedals are set a mere 1.5 inches apart to reduce the stress on your hips and lower back. Use the tracker program to keep tabs on your progress.

Elliptical Trainer (over $1,500)

Octane Fitness’ Q37e ($2,699)

Ergonomically designed handles challenge your muscles in all the right ways. The rigorous upper-body-resistance program and two lower-body programs give you a great all-over work-out. A special feature disables buttons so kids can’t hurt themselves.

Stationary Bike (under $1,500)

Vision Fitness R2250HRT Step-Thru Semi-Recumbent Bike ($1,499)

The step-through frame is just one of the comfort features on this body-friendly ride. Add the reclining seat, adjustable lumbar control, and 28 seat positions, and you might find yourself riding longer than you’d planned.

Stationary Bike (over $1,500)

Star Trac Pro Series Recumbent Bike ($3,195)

With armrests, an adjustable fan, and a sliding holder for that best-selling novel, you’re sure to cycle in comfort. But the 11 programs, 20 levels of resistance, and heart-rate monitor will make sure your workout is more than just a ride in the park.

Weight System (under $1,500)

Empower em40 ($400)
Not only is this foldaway unit designed for a woman’s body, but it’s so elegant it could be a piece of art. Includes everything you need to get strong, including dumbbells, a cable system for lower-body exercises, a multiposition bench, and an exercise DVD and poster.

Weight System (over $1,500)

Precor S 3.23 Functional Trainer ($2,999 with bench)

More traditional-looking but without all the bulk of mammoth weight-room machines. Sturdy cables, an adjustable bench, and multiple accessories allow you to train your upper- and lower-body muscles through their full ranges of motion.

Most Innovative

Technogym USA Corp Cardio Wave ($5,695)

This cutting-edge machine takes the elliptical trainer a step further. Instead of allowing only for the typical forward-back motion, the Cardio Wave has you moving laterally as well, working the full complement of lower-body muscles. Choose from four positions to bring your core into play. “A great alternative to existing forms of aerobic and muscular conditioning,” judge Lynn Allen says.

 
By Ginny Temple