A Complete Review Of The Precor EFX 556i Self-Powered

Size

Length: 80 in. (203 cm)
Width: 32 in. (81 cm)
Height: 68 in. (173 cm)
Weight: 326 lbs (148 kg)

The Precor EFX 556i, part of the Experience Series of elliptical trainers manufactured by Precor is a mid-size elliptical machine.

Weighing in at just over 320 pounds this is by all means the type of high-quality elliptical one would see in a health club, as well as a stationary unit in home.

The quality of this machine is backed of course by it's name Precor in itself.

The first thing I noticed was the smoothe glide provided through the 556i proper biomechanics.

Allowing for a fuller stride in comparison to many ellipticals I've used in the past.

The other thing that stood out was the on the fly program changes without losing any data.

Many times in the past I've used a machine where as soon as you change something everything changes or is lost, not the case here with the 556i.

Adjustable resistance/peddles

6-phase generator system
20 resistance levels
No peddle adjustment, fixed optimally at twenty degrees

The dual action provides both a great lower body workout as well as upper body workout. The fixed ramp at 20 degrees provides optimal glute and hamstring involvement for me when in comparison to a flat ellipse. I especially liked the oversized peddles allowing for different foot placements and more freedom. The stride length of the 556i is another part that stuck out for me as well. 21.5 inches is more than enough to handle even the long legged types that may be interested in this machine. Being six foot one myself I've used ellipticals in the past where I was unable to fully stride and found lyself taking baby steps, not the case with the 556i.

The biomechanics of the machine were validated by Western Washington University biomechanics lab for users of all ages, fitness levels and sizes. I can fully agree that Precor must have gone out and looked for the one size fits all and matched this machine as best as possible to align with users of all types and sizes. No complaints here.

Elliptical stride

21.5” Diameter stride

Again, this is the one thing that I really like about this machine is the maximum range of motion allowed for each stride. Very well done on Precor's part.

Display/control panel

Large Display with Cardio Theater options
% complete
Average Heart Rate
Average Speed
Calories
Calories per hour
Calories per minute
Goal
Heart rate
Language
Maximum heart rate
METS
Profile
Resistance levels
Segment time
SmartRate
Speed
Stride per minute
Target Heart rate
Time
Time elapsed
Time in heart rate zone
Time remaining
Total strides
Units
Watts
Workout Summary

Front-mounted water bottle holder, portable music, reading material and more. All the basics and many more when it comes to read outs, can be a bit confusing at first.

Programs

8 workout programs;

Cross Country
1 weight loss
1 Hear Rate control: Basic
Hill Climb
Fitness Test
Cross Training
Manual
Interval

The console is absolutely lovely! You simply won't find a better display on any elliptical trainer in the market.

A fairly straight forward package with all the basics and the ever popular Hear Rate control program. Self-Powered machine with optional power cord.

Frame

Durable, heavy-duty welded steel frame
Maximum user weight: 350 pounds

The Precor 556i elliptical trainer is very sturdy and solid. This type of elliptical trainer is made to last and basically, your paying for the quality. Taking one look at this machine and you can tell the durability and quality put into it.

Transport wheels in the rear allow the unit to be moved when needed. Pivots are all free flowing, appear to be very graceful and stable as well.

Heart rate monitor

Yes

Very easy to use, and assurance can be trusted as all measurements were developed for accuracy by The Seattle Performance Medicine Institute. Handheld heart rate sensors located on the fixed handles. Very easy to use. Availability for heart rate using a chest strap.

Dual action handle bars

Yes

Minimal space between total body arms allows for comfortable use, would provide use for those of all ages. Stability came to mind when I looked to the handle-bars. Felt very comfortable in relation to the cross training aspect.

Warranty and service

Frame: 7 years
Parts: 2 years
Labor: 1 year
Display: 5 years
Battery: 1 year in self powered units

A top commercial grade warranty package.

Price/cost effectiveness

$4,199

This is the type of elliptical trainer your going to see in the gym, exactly. If you are a gym owner and thinking of buying elliptical trainers for your gym, the Precor 556 will probably be in your top 3 choices. I can't think of a better elliptical trainer than the EFX 556.

If you're a home owner and looking to spend some cash on a top grade elliptical trainer, this is the one for you.

Special features

- Ability to set club parameters; ability to limit exercise time and pause time
- CSAFE ready and FitLinxx compatible
- Language
- Goal
- METS
- Self powered

A lot of additional options, provides the ability to get almost any reading and/or information that might be useful to the trainee.

Overall Rating

I gave very few disadvantages/concerns simply because I didn't really have any. The only thing I really have any concern for is the price, but one must also remember you are getting a very fine piece of equipment made by perhaps the finest name in elliptical trainers. So essentially you are getting what you paying for.

Whether you are looking for an in home unit or looking to house a number of ellipticals in a gym or health club, I would certainly take a hard look at the 556i by Precor.

Grade:

A+