Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review (2024) | BarBend (2024)

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While many of the best ellipticals can leave an elliptical-sized hole in your budget, the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical delivers the essentials without breaking the bank. If you’re on the hunt for a practical machine that can get both your heart and your arms pumping, the EX-59 checks a lot of the boxes our experts tend to see on pricier ellipticals. Sure, it may lack the dazzling touchscreen of app-integrated models, but you know what else it lacks? Their price tags.

After decades of experience on over 20 ellipticals, our team knows how to spot a quality elliptical at any price point. For anyone starting a new fitness journey, coming back after an injury, or looking to upgrade their flip phone to… another flip phone, the EX-59 has the essentials necessary to ease into a cardio routine. Check out what our team liked (and didn’t like) about this budget-friendly elliptical in our Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review below.

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical can be a great starter machine thanks to its approachable price tag, intuitive controls, and dual-handlebar design. Its 18-inch stride length and 300-pound weight capacity can also make it accessible for many athletes.

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Main Takeaways

• This budget-friendly machine comes preloaded with five preset programs that offer structured elliptical training.
• Though light on tech, this elliptical’s 4.5-inch LCD display keeps track of basic metrics, like time, speed, and calories burned.
• Our testing team thinks this machine’s sub-$1,000 price tag makes it a good value for those starting a new fitness journey.

Best Ellipticals Video Review

Join BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, as he showcases a few of our favorite ellipticals for home gyms, people stuck at desks, and beginners. Spoiler alert: the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical made the cut.

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Highlights

Whether you’re kickstarting a new fitness journey, recovering after an injury, or have never even seen an elliptical, the Horizon EX-59 is here for you. Both BarBend’s lead video reviewer Jake Herod and another tester, a certified personal trainer, named this budget-friendly elliptical as a top pick for beginners because you’ll be getting a stable machine that offers enough structure, variety, and tracking to help you stride toward your fitness goals.

As Herod mentions in the above video review, the EX-59’s utility is found in its simplicity. “This is a really solid option for beginners, in my opinion, because it’s just pretty basic,” he says. Our other tester agrees that, while you won’t find a glistening touchscreen or premium features like incline, this elliptical is a good starting point. “Anyone new to elliptical training — or exercise in general — should feel right at home on the EX-59,” adds Herod.

[Related: Best Ellipticals With Incline]

Chief among its pros for our tester was the stability it provided during their workouts. “Unless you were actively jostling this thing, I think it would stay steady for anyone up to its 300-pound user weight capacity,” they said.

They did, however, have one note about its flywheel. “Typically, I’d like to see at least a 16-pound flywheel on an elliptical,” they said. “But after actually using it for multiple workouts, I think the 14.3-pound flywheel here can help keep it steady enough for most users.”

Both of our testers think you can count on that stability whether you follow one of the EX-59’s five preset workouts or use your own device to stream one from a fitness app like iFIT. The simple LCD display is more flip phone than iPhone, but can still keep tabs on your stats. “I didn’t love the super basic display, but for the price, it’s not bad,” our tester said. “It still showed me my time, distance, and speed.”

In terms of ergonomics, our tester was pleased that its stride length and cushioned pedals align with more expensive models. With two sets of handlebars, you can also add in the upper body exercise that ellipticals are known for. “Not only do the fixed handles give your upper body a break from pumping the moving arms, they help make it easier to climb up into those pedals,” they said.

Our tester was sure to point out one interesting detail. “So, the lifetime frame warranty and one-year warranty for parts and labor is pretty standard,” they noted. “But it’s odd there is no warranty for the flywheel.”

However, after a bit of research and factoring in the stability they experienced themselves, they expect it to hold up over time. “After digging around online, it doesn’t look like many users have had any trouble with it,” they said.

Training With the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

The BarBend roster includes certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and competitive weightlifters. We’ve tested more than 20 of the market’s best ellipticals, scoring each — including the Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Trainer — on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 categories, including value, footprint, portability, and more. For more information on how we test products, check out the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

Resistance Levels

As our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, explains, the resistance range on an elliptical can impact your overall workout experience. “If you want something that can provide you with a way to do high-intensity interval workouts and slow, steady cardio, look for models with more resistance and incline levels,” she says. “If you only intend to do steady-state cardio, you can get away with fewer of each.”

Ellipticals tend to feature around 12 or more resistance levels, but as Herod pointed out, the Horizon EX-59 is a budget option that doesn’t quite reach that benchmark. “You have 10 levels of resistance… and there’s no incline or decline settings,” he noted. Since the EX-59 is lacking in this department, our tester — a certified personal trainer — rated its customizations just 2.5 out of 5.

We think 10 levels should suffice for most athletes — especially those newer to elliptical training — though if you’re interested more in HIIT than steady-state training, you may want to opt for a machine with 12 or more resistance levels.

Footprint and Portability

When our tester set up the EX-59, they noted that it was a bit longer than most ellipticals they had used. The average elliptical we’ve tested measures between 11 and 13 square feet, and the EX-59 nearly surpasses that at 12.85 square feet.

“Before I even climbed on, I noticed it seemed pretty lengthy,” they said. “Just make sure you measure, because it’s about 6 feet long.” If you can imagine dropping a standard loveseat into your training space, the EX-59 would be a few square feet smaller. (1)

Most ellipticals we’ve tested weigh somewhere between 175 and 220 pounds, making this model’s 145-pound frame below average. “It’s only 145 pounds, so it honestly didn’t feel very heavy moving it around,” said our tester, rating its footprint and portability 4 out of 5. “Plus, the handles on the back helped a lot.”

While they only rolled it around on hard home gym flooring, our tester could foresee issues on plush or soft carpeting. “The transport wheels certainly make it easier, but on soft surfaces like thick carpet, you’d probably meet some resistance,” they noted. “I mean, they’re just tiny plastic wheels. They’ll be fine for a hard floor, but not shag carpet or anything.”

Conveniences

Sometimes the little things can make a big difference. Herod highlighted this machine’s multiple storage options. “You have a cup holder and two other little spots for keys, earbuds case, or whatever you need,” he said.

Our other tester rated its conveniences 4 out of 5 and appreciated being able to reach these compartments during their workouts. “I loved that there were two little storage trays, plus a water bottle holder in between them,” they noted. Stanley or Yeti fans (like our tester) may take issue with the size of that bottle holder, but it was the right size for small plastic bottles.

Plus, you can plug in your phone to keep the electrons flowing as you work. “I also slotted my phone on the media shelf and with the USB port, I could charge my phone while I used it,” our tester said.

Tech Capabilities

Like any of the best ellipticals under $1,000, it’d be a bit unfair to expect Tesla-level tech from the EX-59, but our tester still thinks it holds its own and rated the technology onboard a 3 out of 5. “The Bluetooth speakers are actually really clear, plus the 4.5-inch display is pretty intuitive,” they noted. “That’s where you can track your metrics, like time, steps, and calories, but also where you choose your workouts.” It also includes heart rate monitoring via pulse sensors in the handlebars.

With five preset programs, like Intervals, Weight Loss, and Distance available on the LCD display, Herod thinks the EX-59 is a great fit for beginners. Our other tester agrees. “The programs are a little basic for more experienced individuals, but I still feel they have some merit, especially for beginners just getting started in home gym training,” they said, rating its programming 3.5 out of 5.

It lacks the kind of immersive touchscreen you tend to see on the high-end models, but Herod made sure to note its device holder. “You also have a built-in tablet and phone holder, which is something I really like,” he notes. “That way you can stream your favorite shows and movies.”

You can also sync your phone with built-in speakers via the EX-59’s Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring you can hear every word (or beat) when streaming content from your device.

What to Consider Before Buying the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

If you’re clueless about what to consider before buying an elliptical, our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, recommends first getting the lay of the land. “Ellipticals, even the simpler, budget-friendly models, are machines with many components, so potential buyers should be aware of what’s considered standard, better, and best when it comes to elliptical specifications.” Consider how the Horizon EX-59 might fit into your life financially, as well as physically before bringing it home.

Value

When surveying the elliptical market, Capritto says it’s important to make sure the features and specs align with the cost. “You’ll pay a lot of money to get top-tier features on an elliptical, just like you will for any other big piece of cardio equipment. While there are plenty of budget-friendly ellipticals available, they won’t check all of the boxes for a lot of people.

After their time using the Horizon EX-59, our tester rated its value a 4 out of 5 because, overall, it’s a quality machine that can get you moving. “I really think the price is right on this machine,” they said. “It’s a budget-friendly elliptical, so it doesn’t have fancy smart features, but it’s such a sturdy machine. I don’t think anyone starting out on their fitness journey or who doesn’t mind using their own device will be disappointed.”

Programming Options

Before adding the EX-59 to your training space, make sure the five preset workouts — Calorie, Distance, Intervals, Manual, and Weight Loss — will offer enough structure to help you reach your goals. As Capritto notes, high-end ellipticals can offer integration with some of the best fitness apps. “Many ellipticals integrate with fitness programming. NordicTrack and ProForm ellipticals, for instance, can stream iFIT programming,” she says. “If you don’t want to pay for a fitness subscription, you may want to look for an elliptical that has built-in workouts.”

Available Space

Keep in mind that dropping the EX-59 into your living room or home gym is akin to adding a recliner or loveseat. (1) If you aren’t sure it will fit, Capritto recommends starting by digging out your measuring tape. “This is a good place to start, because you’ll be really frustrated if you buy an elliptical that doesn’t fit in your intended space or, if you need to be flexible with your space, isn’t easy to move,” she explains.

The EX-59’s footprint of 12.85 square feet is near the high end of the range of 11 to 13 square feet we typically see for ellipticals. While it features transport wheels, our tester says they may struggle on thicker carpets.

Assembly

Once you’ve scoped out where your new Horizon EX-59 will live, Capritto says to take into account how you’ll actually put it together. “White-glove delivery and assembly, which costs extra, might be required.”

Our tester also recommends making a plan for the day it arrives. They rated the entire delivery and setup process of the EX-59 a 4 out of 5, but noted that the assembly was a little trickier than normal. “If you can afford it, I’d recommend splurging for the white-glove assembly option,” they said.

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Vs. The Competition

Stepping into the vortex of home gym equipment can be a daunting task. With so many specs and features to keep track of, laying out the details on multiple machines may help provide a clearer picture of which elliptical is ideal for your fitness level and goals.

The majority of ellipticals we’ve tested fall somewhere between $1,200 and $1,800, making the EX-59 a budget option. Along with the price discrepancy between the EX-59 and the AirGlide 14i and Pro HIIT H14, you’ll notice a wide gap in levels of resistance. Our testers think the 10 levels on the EX-59 are plenty for beginners, but experienced users may appreciate a wider range.

The 300-pound weight capacity of the EX-59 is 25 and 50 pounds shy of the H14 and E25, respectively, but 300 pounds is the industry standard and it should accommodate most users. The same goes for its 18-inch stride length, though taller users over 6 feet may prefer the 20-inch stride length of the E25. (2)

The LCD display on the EX-59 also lags behind the large touchscreens on these two high-end ellipticals. Both the AirGlide 14i and the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 are integrated with iFIT, so not only can their touchscreens stream virtual workouts, but their resistance can automatically adjust during select sessions.

Along with the other budget-friendly model here —the Sole E25 — the EX-59 relies on preset workouts to provide structured training, but both feature tablet holders and Bluetooth speakers if you want to connect your own device. Some of the best online workout programs offer free trials or are completely free. So if you’re out to save some cash on both your elliptical and its low-impact training, the answer might be the screen you’re reading this on.

Places to Buy the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical is available on the Horizon Fitness website, as well as Amazon and major retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Customer Experience

When you order the Horizon EX-59, you’ll have the option to upgrade to White Glove Delivery and Assembly and our tester thinks it’s worth the additional cost. Horizon states that after your elliptical ships, it should arrive in 10 to 15 business days.

Warranties

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical earned a 4.5 out of 5 for its warranty, financing options, and returns from our tester. It comes with a lifetime warranty for the frame, plus a one-year warranty on the parts and labor. You can purchase extended three-year or five-year warranties at checkout for $119.99 and $149.99, respectively. Horizon Fitness offers financing options, as well as a 30-day return policy.

Company Information

Horizon Fitness manufactures some of the best treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and other fitness equipment on the market. Our tester rated Horizon’s customer service 4.5 out of 5 after interacting with their live chat option. “You can use the chat box to basically search the website or ask it to connect you with a living, breathing person.” You can also reach the customer care team at (888) 878-9011 or by filling out the contact form on the website.

In Conclusion

After spending time on the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical, we think it’s great for those who want a no-nonsense cardio machine that can help them work up a sweat without breaking the bank. While it won’t blow you away with a dazzling touchscreen or app-connected virtual workouts, it can just as easily get your heart pumping and upper body moving. Our tester was impressed with the stability this elliptical provided, even at its sub-$1,000 price point.

Firing up one of the preset workouts may be just enough structure to keep you on the right track whether you are new to elliptical training or to exercise in general. With Bluetooth speakers and an LCD display to track your stats, it’s not completely tech-averse, although it is geared toward those who value function over flash. If reading our Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review is the first step on your new fitness journey, we think the approachable price tag and minimalist attitude provide a lot of value.

Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical FAQs

References

1. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
2. Sydney Bueckert Fitness Trainer CES. (2021, May 19). What is the ideal elliptical stride length to best fit you?. Sunny Health and Fitness. https://sunnyhealthfitness.com/blogs/products/best-elliptical-stride-length