We couldn’t complete our top ten cross trainers table without having an absolute top of the range home cross trainer like the Octane Q47xi. This elliptical trainer is in our top ten simply because it is fantastic. It has all the features you can expect on a commercial gym model packed into a home model.
When you compare this to the NordicTrack Elite 12.5 it is very expensive for a home trainer. No doubt it has superior functions but you are certainly paying for them.
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The Octane Q47xi Overview
This is pure luxury, if you are looking for value for money or something to top up your training every so often this probably isn’t for you. However, if you want the best quality and are willing to pay for it then read on.
This not only offers a superior quality of trainer making it very comfortable it also has the massive benefit if the inbuilt coaching through the huge amount of pre installed programs and Smart Link App. You can get training tips and programs and record them towards your goals as you use the trainer. For those of us that train without direction this is great. Often training can seem pointless with nothing to aim for and a structure. With the Q47xi you can map it all out.
The design is well thought out on a practical level and from a looks point of view. The head height clearance is low, making it great for most houses. A lot of gym machines have high step ups which would not fit into a normal room.
If you are looking for some state of the art home gym equipment this will look very professional compared to some of the cheaper models. The sleek design is nicely thought out. Some Octane trainers have also been seen in the press being used by various celebrities. This is a very classy piece of equipment.
Suitable for all levels, the ergonomic design and smooth motion are great for beginners. Helping remove the strain on your joints from gentle workouts. For the experienced athletes you will be able to work this hard, using the fitness programs you can push your body to the maximum.
Pros
Owning a top of the range cross trainer like this will bring a lot of benefits. Below are just a few.
- Smooth action.
- Robust build quality.
- Gym quality trainer in your home.
- Low step on height.
- 74 pre installed programs, suitable for all levels.
Cons
Along with all of these fantastic features there are a couple of downsides. All relating to price!
- Very expensive.
- Cheaper quality options on the market.
The Octane Q47xi Features
Sitting at the top of the Octane range the Q47 is jam packed with many brilliant features. All aimed at making your work out as smooth and effective as possible. There aren’t many features you won’t find!
Superior Build Quality
The quad link system that is used to build this cross trainer gives a really smooth motion. This is designed to give you the most comfortable training session possible, making the stride feel very natural. The heavy flywheel and ergonomic design work with the quad link system to maximise comfort and offer gym level training at home. This is a trainer that will make you want to stay on it long periods of time.
Adjustable stride length
You can get the set up of the Q47xi just right for you with the electronically adjustable stride length. It can be altered in small increments of half an inch from the console. The stride can be altered from 18 inches (45.7 cm) to 26 inches (66 cm). This is perfect if you are a regular user and want to alter the stride length for different workouts. Replicating walking, a light run or an all out run is possible. You can also set it up for the whole family with the touch of a button.
Built In Fan
This is something you don’t find on many home models. If you are working hard for long periods of time it’s nice to try and keep cool. This can be pretty difficult as the room warms up, especially on hot summers days. The fan has three different settings to keep the temperature at a nice level.
Blue Tooth Smart Link
The Octane app allows you to record your hard work against your fitness goals. The device can be connected via a blue tooth connection for easy synchronisation. You’ll find training videos and all sorts of fitness tips to help you get in great shape. All of this can be monitored through one of the three iPad holders.
74 Workout Programs
Yes, you read it correctly, 74! That is a lot of programs with a huge amount of variety. They can be linked up with the smart link app and also use the Cross Circuit programs that combine strength training with cardiovascular workouts for the best results. You can really personalise your programs to achieve your goals. Some may want a lot of cardio to assist in weight loss where as other may require a certain type of strengthening work. It’s all here for you.
Wireless Heart Rate And Polar Strap
Keep a close eye on your heart rate and monitor how hard you are working. A Polar heart rate strap is compatible with the inbuilt heart monitor and will be displayed as you train. This can be used with the fitness programs to gauge just how hard you are working.
Console
The well designed console is a great combination of easy to use controls and a screen that delivers many different training statistics all at the same time. This is vital to pushing help monitor how you are training. All of the machine set up and workout programs can be easily controlled from the console.
Conclusion
This is not one to consider if you are on any sort of budget. It is a luxurious piece of kit for the home.
There is no doubt it is brilliant quality with some many features. You can train on this until your heart is content with no problems at all levels. Totally configurable and a pleasure to look at.
For those with very busy lives that want to get up in the morning and train everyday before heading off to work it is a great option. It costs a lot less than a top of the range bicycle which makes it seem a lot more feasible when you are weighing up the pro’s and con’s. If you are going to use it for many years it is a good deal.
For those of us that are looking for value for money there are some great trainers on the market at a lot lower cost. The NordicTrack 12.5 is a great trainer, it is high quality and has less features but is still a fantastic trainer at half the cost!
If you are looking for the best and want to spoil yourself, go for it. You won’t be disappointed.