A.C.T. Elliptical

Have you discussed an exercise plan with your doctor?  It also might be good to talk to a physical therapist.  Both of these resources would be best for telling you what type of equipment and what amount of exercise would be best for you.   

ellipticals are low impact and may be the best option to lose wieght fast or maybe a bike. try them out at sears find out which ones more comfortable. but you should talk to your doctor before you make any decisions.

I have similar physical limitations (back & knees).  I have found that the best low-impact exerciser is a recumbent bike with magnetic resistence.  It is smmoth and joint-friendly.  I have found this to be a much better option that elipticals, treadmills, steppers or regular bikes.  Best advice - try before you buy.

Good advice.

My knee needs some recovery physical training and the elliptical (in my case) will not strain my knee as much as a cycle could.

I guess that is why there is such a wide selection of exercise equipment on the market.

No one machine is perfect for everyone...

Actually ellipticals should not be used if you have bad knees. I am 25 years old and have had a bad knee for 11 years now, and the doctor advised against ellipticals due to the grinding effects they can have in the long run. So if you have a bad back or knees run away from them. Recumbent bikes are by far the best! You can also use free weights while riding the bikes for a more intensified workout.

Hmm...

Under zero load, my knee has been doing fine, and I've actually increased my knee's range of motion capability.

I have had bad knees for 20 + years, and the Elliptical gives me way more comfort than any stationary bike - regardless of doctors 'orders'.

I have bad knees and my orthopedist told me the elliptical is the best low impact exercise machine [displaced patella and arthritis].  I am in the process of finding one & Sears is currently having a sale,  which is why I am here.  I appreciate everyone's insight.  Thank you.

I am 25 I have back problems leg hip and knee. I have arthrists and disk disease and nerve problems. I have finally been cleared to start doing more exercise then the 5 mins at physical therapy. Now at phys therapy they put me on an ellipitical for 30 -60 mins a visit. At 45- 60 dollars a visit twice a week for minimal exercise it seemed ridiculous to contiue to pay this at PT when I could have my own at home machine. If you DR suggested and approved an elliptical then I would advise the Norid Track A.C.T. It normall sells for 1999 but it is on sale for 899 on their web site. The bike actually causes more issues with my back and knees then the elliptical.

BTW I have had 3 surgeries and multiple injections on my back. Take it slow. I would encourage 15 mins 2-3 times a day and increase the time and decrease the session amounts if desired

I have had good luck with some elliptical models....I have a hip replacement due to an accident with my horse and wanted very much to remain active! With my Dr's blessing I have used an elliptical with success. I tested quite a few as I needed the right angle in order to be comfortable with my bionic parts and exercising and was very pleased with the results. I have joined a health club because mine has been broken and unreliable.....but enjoy the results from the elliptical at the gymn. 

Now if I can only find a replacement for my broken elliptical :( Still waiting for a sale.......

Does anyone have the A.C.T.? if so, can anyone tell me if it has a read out that shows you how many calories you've burned during your workout session? Thank you.

weban5  the A.C.T. does have a calorie readout during your workout if you are interested in more features I would be happy to get you more information.

Thanks, all of you have been helpful to me. I have 2 knee replacements and now have disk back problems. Been riding stationary bike but does nothing for core and unable to get on floor due to back problem. Understand eliptical helps all.  Even treadmill, PT says walk as needed and is back surgery will be on walking plan after, but not sure going thru with surgery, trying to strengthen core since knee surgery in feb. bad, bad. eld, michigan

This has been great information, yes, its a good idea to try out the machine at the store to see how your joints on the knees and back feel.  I will be doing that.    I have a bad knee for years, had two arthroscopies and now my hip is bothering me.   Having arthritis causes depression because one is limited to certain activites.  Being able to use the elliptical machines for arthritic patients,is terrific.   I think that pacing oneself with the program and making short goals will prevent injury.  I am so so happy that I will be able to raise my self steem by losing and shaping up with the workouts.  I use to dance a lot but now that has changed for me because my knees get abused by the movements.   I will be on my way to try the ellipticals !   Good bye arthritis !

HI, I bought this directly from Nordic Track after reading blog on other's nightmarish experiences about Sears & 3rd parties about delivery, set-up on the sliders.  This has turned into the same nightmare--machine defective--Sunshine was to contact their company to order new part, set-up new delivery . . .dropped the ball--when I called back . . .told to contact Nordic Track . . .they transferred me to 4 companies & 2 hours later problem still unresolved!  I emailed the Sunshine Delivery contact back this week . . .NO RESPONSE!  Let the buyer beware and go to the gym, or have people available to  put it together . . .I do not have that option.  I paid for it in full, and am left with a defective machine in my home.  The next step? Attorney General? any suggestions?  (The screwholes in the left pedel that connect to the left arm do not match, and the welding is completely off, with scrap metal in one of the screwholes.  A foot pedel was also put on backwards.)  Thanks.Rose

Off topic helpful hint:  Get the service plan if you are getting an elliptical!  My wife and I bought the NordicTrak ASR 1000 two years ago.  We have had to use the plan 3 times. 

I NEVER buy service plans, but I took the plunge since this was my first elliptical purchase.  I'm certainly glad that I did.

Thanks . . .bought top of the line . . . plan, warrenty +maintenance . ..Nordic Track continues to  put me on hold and transfer me around.  This should be against the law.  The bank wants me to contact them one last time, going up 2 supervisors, and then contacting the bank's dispute service center.  If you research more, you'll find more people like me encountering these nightmares where NT won't take responsibility, and transfers you to different people/companies, and many are surprised they're still in business.  The bank also wants me to follow through with the state attorney general's office.  Buyer Beware of this company!  Do NOT do business with them!!!!!!!

Hi I have had to major back sugury and is not fun, but my pt and doctor said the best for back problem and special hip is the elliptical.  I am looking into the Sole E35 elliptical, can anyone tell me how good it is.  Because I know Nordic track has a history of problem and they dont take care of it.