Is the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Right for You? (2024 Update)
Proform
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
Key Features:
- $599 or $16 per month for 36 months
- Versatile two-in-one design allows you to seamlessly transition between elliptical and bike
- Integrates with iFit interactive workouts
- 16 silent magnetic resistance levels
- Connects to a heart rate monitor via Bluetooth
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is a popular piece of home exercise equipment for people on a budget. Not only does it have a relatively low price tag compared to most cardio fitness equipment, but it also is a dual exercise machine, doubling as an elliptical trainer and a recumbent bike in one. This increases the versatility of your workouts without appreciably increasing the footprint of the machine or the financial investment.
In this article, we have put together a comprehensive review of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT elliptical and exercise bike, covering everything from the basic product specifications to the pros and cons of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT, buying considerations and user reviews.
ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Specs
- Footprint: 24.5 inches wide x 70.5 inches deep x 60.5 inches high
- Weight: 117 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Stride Length: 15 inches
- Warranty: Five-year frame warranty, one-year parts and labor warranty
- Performance Monitor: Five-inch High Contrast Multi-Color Display
- Resistance Levels: 16 levels of digital magnetic resistance
- Program Options: iFit compatible with membership (30-day free trial); no built-in programs
Benefits of the Hybrid Trainer
The ProForm motto is, “We train to live.” The Hybrid XT seems to align well with this goal in that it offers users a lot more versatility in workouts because you can use it as an elliptical or use it as a recumbent exercise bike. There are several reasons why this is beneficial.
For one, the versatility in how you exercise can reduce boredom. You have twice as many options for how to move your body, so you can alternate which type of exercise you do from one day to the next.
This versatility also affords physical benefits. By mixing up the types of physical activity you perform, your muscles, bones, joints and connective tissues are subjected to different forces and movements, providing a more well-rounded, functionally strong body.
For example, if you were to only have access to a recumbent exercise bike, you would have very little engagement of your upper body and core muscles, but by also being able to stand up and use the elliptical with the arm handlebars, you can get a total-body workout on other days.
Similarly, varying the types of movement that you do reduces the risk of overuse injuries.
For example, if you tend to have knee pain or suffer from knee arthritis that can flare up, doing the elliptical trainer every day may exacerbate your condition. However, if you perform some exercise bike workouts interspersed with your elliptical trainer workouts, you can reduce the stress on your knees. Using a recumbent bike is a non-weight-bearing activity, so it is very easy on the joints.
Either movement is a low-impact form of exercise, so this a great cross trainer for people with joint pain.
It's also worth noting that ProForm is owned by the same parent company as other quality home exercise equipment brands like NordicTrack-ICON Health & Fitness.
Who Should Buy the Proform Hybrid Trainer XT
Proform
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is designed to be used as an elliptical machine and a recumbent exercise bike. As a result, it offers excellent versatility, space efficiency and financial savings over buying two separate cardio machines.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is ideal for people who want a budget-friendly, versatile and compact exercise machine for their home or garage gym but who do not need the top-of-the-line in their exercise equipment.
For this reason, the hybrid bike/elliptical is particularly suitable for beginners who want to build their aerobic fitness but don’t foresee getting up to competitive levels of performance or doing particularly vigorous cardio workouts.
Because both biking and elliptical training are forms of low-impact exercise, this machine is good for anyone who needs to reduce joint stress and impact, and you can get a total-body workout when using the elliptical.
Additionally, like most Proform and NordicTrack exercise equipment, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is designed for users who want to be able to work out alongside world-class iFit trainers in outdoor or studio classes or along virtual courses filmed in locations around the world via the iFit streaming workouts.
Better yet, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is fully integrated with the iFit platform to help you reach your workout goals. All you need to do is connect your own tablet to the integrated tablet holder, enter your account information, and then choose any of the thousands of streaming live and on-demand personal training global workouts and studio classes or world-wide exploration workouts in the library.
One cool thing about the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is that it offers interactive training via iFit. When the iFit personal trainer prescribes a certain resistance on your machine, instead of needing to manually adjust the machine yourself, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is automatically controlled to meet the specifications from the personal trainer.
Whether you are doing an elliptical workout or using the stationary bike component, all you have to do is keep up and focus on your workout rather than needing to worry about adjusting the resistance of the machine.
Who Shouldn’t Buy ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
Ultimately, it’s important to recognize that the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is truly designed to be a hybrid exercise machine, rather than a standalone elliptical trainer or recumbent bike. What this means is that while the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT definitely serves its purpose of allowing you to do both elliptical training and stationary biking on one piece of equipment, it is not the best elliptical trainer or the best recumbent exercise bike.
If you are predominantly looking to use the machine as an elliptical trainer, it probably makes sense to buy a regular elliptical trainer for the same price. This hybrid machine does not have an adjustable incline for the elliptical.
Similarly, if you plan to mostly use it as an exercise bike, investing the same amount of money in a standard exercise bike will get you a much better bike.
For these reasons, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is not ideal for people who want a premium elliptical machine or high-quality exercise bike because you will end up making sacrifices on the features and performance of each of these functions with the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT compared to buying a standalone machine for the same price.
Additionally, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT May not be suitable for larger users. Earlier versions of this exercise machine used to have a 350-pound weight capacity, but the newest version has a much lower weight capacity of 250 pounds. Furthermore, the 15-inch stride length on the elliptical portion of the machine is generally too short for taller users.
Although not an exact science, people who are over 70 inches (5 feet, 10 inches) tall generally are more comfortable using an elliptical machine that has a stride length of at least 18 inches, as this will better mimic their natural stride length. A stride length of 15 inches is definitely on the shorter end for elliptical machines, and on par with most compact elliptical trainers.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT may also not be the best home gym investment for very active and fit users. Although the quality of construction is good, given that it is a budget cardio machine, it may not stand up well to particularly vigorous or heavy use. Additionally, there are limited levels of resistance, so if you are strong, you may quickly max out at the highest level, and there is no incline on the elliptical.
Furthermore, the flywheel in the machine only weighs 13 pounds, which also limits the potential resistance of the machine, and some users complain that the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT feels a bit wobbly when pedaling at fast speeds, particularly when cranking the intensity level on the elliptical portion of the machine. This doesn’t seem to be an issue at more moderate paces, but could be problematic for higher-level athletes.
Another factor to consider is having enough space for the machine. Although the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is much more compact than having an individual elliptical machine plus an individual exercise bike, the footprint of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is still fairly large.
You also need to have ceilings that are high enough to permit ample headroom when you are standing on top of the pedals. For these reasons, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is not a good purchase for anyone without a suitable space to fully use the machine safely.
Finally, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT requires an iFit subscription to use the machine. There are no built-in workout programs and you cannot even access a manual workout mode without manually rigging the machine, which might even void the warranty.
Therefore, if you are looking to do your own self-guided cardio workouts, use pre-programmed workouts or do not want to purchase an ongoing iFit subscription, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is not a good fitness machine to buy.
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Pros
- Versatile piece of cardio equipment that serves as an elliptical/bike combo
- Good value; low price
- Compatible with iFit interactive training
- Easy to assemble
- Comfortable bike seat and adjustable pedals
- Easy to transition between bike/elliptical
- Silent magnetic resistance feels super smooth
- Bluetooth connection to heart rate monitors
Proform Hybrid Trainer Cons
- Requires iFit subscription to use; no preloaded workouts or manual mode
- Maximum weight capacity is only 250 pounds
- Shorter elliptical stride length of 15 inches may not be suitable for taller users
- Limited resistance may not be enough for fitter users
- No incline on the elliptical
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Proform Hybrid Trainer
Proform
As is the case when purchasing any piece of exercise equipment for your home gym, there are a few important factors to consider before purchasing a ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT elliptical/bike.
Assembly
Most reviews report that the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is fairly easy to assemble, even by yourself, although two people will make the job much easier because some of the components are fairly heavy. The instructions are reportedly clear and easy to follow.
Most people can assemble the elliptical/bike in one to two hours. ProForm also offers in-home assembly if you are not the DIY type. Third-party sellers, such as Amazon, may also offer white glove delivery service and assembly, but you will need to check at the time of purchase.
Size
The overall dimensions of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer are quite large. It stands 60.5 inches tall, 24.5 inches wide and 70.5 inches long from front to back. The machine does not fold up in any way. However, it does have wheels on the front to help you move it around.
The bike/elliptical weighs 117 pounds, so when using the wheels, it is fairly maneuverable by one person, although smaller people may prefer assistance.
Programming
The most important factor to be mindful of when deciding whether to buy the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is to understand that this exercise machine is designed to be used with the iFit fitness platform. When you buy the product directly from the manufacturer, you get a 30-day free trial of the iFit family membership.
However, once this trial period has elapsed, you have to pay for an iFit subscription in order to continue using the machine.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT does not have any built-in workout programs. Previous versions of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT did come with programs on the LCD console. In fact, in the first iteration, the machine was compatible with iFit, but it also had 16 on-board workout programs, eight for the bike and eight for the elliptical trainer. These workout programs were accessible directly on the console and you did not need to have an iFit subscription to access them.
However, the latest version of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT does not have any pre-programmed workouts on the console. Furthermore, some users say that the machine is entirely unusable without an iFit subscription because the start-up screen on the LCD console will not allow you to proceed into a manual mode without entering iFit account information.
Interestingly, some buyers have been able to override the initial prompt that requires you to enter your iFit information to continue using the machine by holding down the iFit or Bluetooth button for 30 seconds, whereas others say that this hack does not seem to work.
Because ProForm has designed this latest version of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT to be used only with iFit, the official product specifications make no mention of how to bypass the need for an iFit membership to use the machine.
For this reason, even though there is a potential that you might be able to override the iFit requirement and use the machine in manual mode, it is best to expect that this will not be a possibility, since many users say that this has not worked successfully on their machine.
Ultimately, this is neither here nor there if you plan to subscribe to iFit, because with an iFit subscription, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT works perfectly well and gives you access to every single live and on-demand workout on the robust fitness platform.
However, like all subscriptions, the fees will be ongoing for continual use of iFit, so you should factor the cost of the iFit membership into the effective price of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT.
After the trial period is over, if you want to continue streaming iFit workouts and content, you need to purchase a subscription, which will cost $15 per month or $180 per year for an individual membership or $39 a month ($396 a year) for the family membership.
Usage/Feel
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is unique in that it seamlessly integrates an elliptical machine and a recumbent exercise bike into one unit.
Because this is a hybrid machine, sacrifices have to be made in the engineering of the design. As a result, the machine will feel a little bit different when you are pedaling it as a bike compared to standard exercise bikes and when you are using it as an elliptical compared to regular elliptical machines.
For example, when using the Hybrid Trainer XT as a bike, the pedaling motion is more pushing back and forth rather than a full revolution circular motion used with traditional pedaling. It takes a little adjusting to but feels quite fluid, and fairly natural, once you get the hang of it.
The elliptical doesn’t feel that much different than any other compact elliptical, but compared to an elliptical machine at a gym, the 15-inch stride length will feel notably smaller and choppy or at first, somewhat more like stepping than striding or gliding.
Reviewers say that the magnetic digital resistance is smooth and quiet.
Transitioning between the elliptical and bike and moving from the bike to the elliptical is quite easy. The screen on the machine adjusts so that you can clearly see it whether you are sitting and pushing the pedals or standing on the pedals.
There is a simple knob that you pull and then the screen locks into the upper down position as needed. Then, you either drop the pedals down to use the elliptical or flip them into their upward position to ride the bike.
Customer/User Reviews
ProForm customer reviews for the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Elliptical and Recumbent Bike are mostly positive. Although there are no user reviews for the exercise machine on the company’s website, third-party sellers such as Amazon do have genuine customer reviews.
On Amazon, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT has a four-star review overall, with 53 user ratings. On the Walmart website, the product has only a 3.4 star rating overall with 66 reviews. As with most products, reviews for this fitness machine tend to be either enthusiastic five-star ratings or one-star complaints.
With that said, there are also moderate reviewers who point out pros and cons of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT in a balanced manner.
Overall, nearly unanimously, users seem to love the iFit platform, and appreciate the fact that a fairly budget elliptical can indeed stream these interactive live and on-demand studio classes and global workouts.
One Amazon customer wrote: “Easy to follow instructions. Love the iFit program compatibility.”
Customers seem to love the two-in-one function of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT.
One Walmart verified buyer wrote: “Definitely worth buying: Exactly what I was looking for. I love that this is a dual machine. I can work the elliptical and then sit and use the bike. I was worried the stride would be short for us since we are both tall, but it is perfect for our use.”
The primary negative reviews center around the fact that you must pay for an iFit app membership in order to use the machine. Users who are unable to trick the machine into bypassing the iFit account information screen are unable to work out on the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT.
Other user complaints center around the fact that sometimes screws or pieces seem to be missing from the packaging and they have to contact customer service for a replacement.
Even though ProForm Customer Service is able to successfully fulfill replacements for any missing parts, you have to wait for the piece to come, which can be frustrating. This certainly doesn’t happen with every purchase, but there were several reviews that noted this to be an issue, so this is a bit concerning.
However, it should be noted that all of these reviews came from third-party sellers, such as Amazon and Walmart, so this might not be an issue if you buy the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT directly from ProForm.
Features
In addition to serving as a low-cost, two-in-one cross trainer for a garage gym or living room, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT has a few other notable features.
There is a five-inch console with a high-contrast display. The console displays workout metrics such as your mileage, speed, workout time, calories burned and heart rate.
The inertia-enhanced flywheel affords a super steady, smooth pedal stroke and the gear ratio is designed to provide a more natural elliptical stride, and there is silent, frictionless and digital resistance via ProForm’s SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance.
One of the best features is actually the bike seat. Reviewers say that it is super comfortable and well padded, and even has integrated lumbar support to help ensure you are using optimal posture. One of the biggest complaints about most exercise bike is that the seat is so uncomfortable. This is one area where ProForm has definitely got it right, so if you plan to do long bike workouts, your butt and back should be quite comfortable.
It's nice to have foot pedals that—whether you're using it as a bike or an elliptical—are well-padded and oversized. Offering an additional footpiece you can use when pedaling the bike, they’re designed to feel comfortable and stable.
The machine also offers built-in conveniences like a water bottle holder and a media shelf for your phone or tablet. You will need to use this tablet holder to connect your tablet or smartphone to stream the iFit app workouts. If you neglected to bring your own workout headphones, you can use the trainer’s integrated speakers.
Warranty and Return Policy
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is backed by a five-year frame warranty and a one-year parts and labor warranty. This is much better than the 90-day parts warranty often seen with inexpensive exercise equipment.
The return policy isn’t particularly lenient, so you should carefully consider if you think the machine is a good fit for you before purchasing it.
If you purchase the XT machine directly from ProForm, you are entitled to a 30-day return policy upon receipt. Buyers are charged a return shipping fee of $250 plus a 10 percent restocking fee if they choose to return the machine during the return window. Even if you change your mind while awaiting the delivery of the Hybrid Trainer XT after buying it and decide you want to return the purchase, you will still be charged the return shipping and restocking fees.
Proform Hybrid Trainer FAQs
How do you use a Proform Hybrid Trainer XT without iFit?
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is not designed to be used without iFit. Some users report being able to override the need for iFit by booting the machine into manual mode, though not everyone seems to find success with this method.
Does the Proform Hybrid Trainer XT fold?
The Hybrid Trainer XT does not fold. It has transport wheels to move around but it does not fold up for storage.
How does the Proform Trainer work?
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT converts from a recumbent exercise bike to a full-body elliptical trainer when you rise from the seat, stand on the pedals and hold the handlebars.
The machine uses smooth, digital magnetic resistance to increase the difficulty of moving the inertia-enhanced flywheel.
By connecting your own tablet or smartphone, you can stream thousands of interactive iFit workouts while biking or standing up using the elliptical.
What is a hybrid trainer?
A hybrid trainer is a low-impact, total-body cross trainer exercise machine that combines an upright elliptical trainer with a recumbent exercise bike into one machine. The adjustable pedals are designed to drop down or up to accommodate either motion.
Related Post: ProForm Ellipticals Roundup Review
Final Thoughts
Overall, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is a great cardio machine for beginners and intermediate athletes looking for maximum versatility with a low-impact home exercise machine at an affordable price.
The ability to stream interactive iFit workouts provides a near-endless library of workouts to choose from, preventing boredom and keeping you challenged and engaged. However, the machine is not a top-of-the-line trainer, and may not be high-performing enough for advanced users.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
