ProForm SmartStrider 535 Elliptical Review

The SpaceSaver 535 is the entry-level trainer in the Pro-Form SpaceSpaver compact rear drive series, offered for just $599. As an entry-level trainer, the 535 offers basic features like a water bottle holder, soft-grip controls with built-in heart rate sensors, and a fan, along with 18 built-in workout programs to choose from, 18 digital resistance levels, and a sound system featuring iPod compatibility with Intermix Acoustics 2.0 speakers. The rear drive design keeps body weight evenly distributed, with a 13 pound flywheel and a 275 pound weight capacity. This trainer also features an 18 inch stride, the average for most entry-level trainers, which means this trainer is also more compact and takes up less space. Other space saving features include the transport wheels and Spacesaver ® design, which means this trainer folds up completely for easy storage. There are also adjustable leveling feet, making it a very versatile trainer able to adapt to multiple surfaces. Like other Pro-Form trainers, the 535 is also built with a durable, commercial-grade steel frame and Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) technology.

Our Favorite Features

• Rear drive design
• Price
• SpaceSacer® design (folds up)
• Adjustable leveling feet

ProForm SmartStrider 535 Elliptical - Notable Specs:

Overall Rating:	3-stars
Compact / Folding:	Yes
Incline:	N/A
Stride Length:	18 inches
Flywheel:	13 LBS
Programs:	18 Workout Apps
Fan:	No
Weight Capacity:	275 LBS
Dimensions:	65" L x 25" W x 74" H

Our Least Favorite Features

• Lighter flywheel weight of 13 pounds (makes the trainer noisier and bumpier)
• LCD screen dimensions are not specified
• No adjustable features (stride, incline, pedals, etc.)
• Shorter stride at only 18 inches
• Only one year warranty on parts and labor

 The Bottom Line

The Pro-Form SmartStrider 535 is incredibly budget-friendly, but of course you get what you pay for, which means no adjustable or customizable options and an incredibly small LCD display with few entertainment options. The flywheel weight and weight capacity are also concerns. If you are a relatively small person, the low flywheel weight and 275 pound weight capacity may not matter too much to you, but the heavier the flywheel weight, the smoother the ride, so this trainer can still be quite bumpy and noisy despite your size. The bottom line is, if you are looking to save money and no one else plans to use this trainer, the 535 is a compact trainer that is a good value for small spaces.