I need advice on buying an elliptical machine.

My boyfriend and I have decided to go in on an elliptical.

Any advice on good models? We would like to spend under 500.

I adore PRECOR... the only problem is they are pretty pricey - my mother just bought my sister one and including shipping (and putting it together for us) it cost just under $4000! YIKES I KNOW - my mom thinks exercise is super important though.... I am sure if you went on eBay or Amazon there would be some good deals... Another brand I like is Life Fitness although the only thing I don't like is that there is in incline change... only resistance.

I have a life fitness that I love. It was about 1k from 2nd Wind. If you want to spend only $500 you should just go on craigslist and see if you can find one in your area. You can always talk people's prices down. The most important thing with an elliptical, though, is comfort. Don't just buy it because it's cheap, get one that's actually comfortable to use regardless of how much more it is - cause really, if it's not comfortable, are you really going to use it? Then, even though you only spent $300, you basically threw it away since you never use it. I use mine daily and even though I spent a lot more than I wanted to, it was worth the extra to get one I liked.

But craigslist is a lifesaver if you want to spend less. And if you do decide to get one from a store- get the warranty! I can't stress that enough. :)

After reading the replies, I'm definitely considering buying a new elliptical...I got mine for $160 at Walmart

Lol, still new at working out (as pathetic as that sounds).

Look on Craigslist! I found a great elliptical on Craigslist for $375.