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Proform 480 CSX Exercise Bike Review

Some of the best features of the Proform 480 models are the overall quality of Proform Exercise bikes, the Dual-Grip EKG™ Heart Rate Monitor and the iFit Technology programs that plug into the bike's console. This is a very comfortable and sturdy stationary bike.Proform 480csx exercise bike

iFIT Technology is like having your own personal trainer. iFIT is a series of programmable cards you insert into the console (Price $30). Each card offers an 8-week program that covers 24 different workouts.

The programs control the resistance and duration of the workout, and are designed by personal trainers. Included is audio coaching that provides motivation and suggestions to optimize your workout. There are 3 levels to choose from - beginner, intermediate and advanced. In addition, they cover different fitness goals - wellness, weight loss, body shaping and endurance.

Although this is a very economical Recumbent (recumbent stationary bikes are generally more expensive than upright models), it still has the much nicer seat adjustment levers. If you have ever tried some of the lower cost recumbent fitness bikes that have the knobs that you need to loosen then pull out in order to adjust the seat then you know how much nicer the lever adjustments are.

I have seen this model referred to as a "gaming recumbent" on some sites too. This seems odd to me but I'm sure this has to do with the iFit cards and the fact that you can get games in addition to additional workouts on them. Either way, these additional features help to relieve indoor cycling boredom so anything that you can do is helpful.

Note:  As of 5/17/2010 the Proform 480CSX is no longer available at Amazon and may be difficult to find online. :-(

Please see our Exercise Bike Ratings page for the latest fitness bikes that are available online.

I have seen this model referred to as a "gaming recumbent" on some sites too. This seems odd to me but I'm sure this has to do with the iFit cards and the fact that you can get games in addition to additional workouts on them. Either way, these additional features help to relieve indoor cycling boredom so anything that you can do is helpful.

It is nice that the iFit card technology is optional so you can either skip this option, if you are not interested in all the electronic stuff, or you can upgrade the bike later when you are ready or need a little more motivation to stick with your fitness routine.

I have found the additional electronics on fitness bikes to be useful and motivational at times but then a lot of times I will just turn on a TV during my workout to help pass the time. You still have to do the workout, of course, but if you get involved in a show it can really help pass the time much faster.