The Horizon EX 77 Elliptical Trainer – Exceptional Value

The Horizon EX 77 elliptical trainer is the upgrade over the EX57 and EX67 models, both of which continue to get strong reviews. These machines lead all sales among affordably priced elliptical trainers that come equipped with power inclines and adjustable stride lengths.

As if that weren’t enough, Horizon’s new EX 77 model now has an MP3 port, speakers, moving handles for an upper body workout, pivoting footpads, and whole a lot more for about $1,000.

What You Get

The Horizon EX 77 elliptical trainer has a well-designed, easy-to-read LED matrix display, and its "on-the-fly" open-ended programming lets you chose from a variety of workouts.

You can create up to two custom programs, or click on Select Goal or Select Terrain for a challenging cardio pace. The console includes an MP3 input for playing your favorite workout music, plus a safe pocket for the MP3 player pocket and a headphone plug-in.

The rest of the specs on the Horizon EX 77 are:

• 16 Levels of motorized magnetic brake resistance
• 18" - 19" Variable Stride
• 14+ Workout Programs
• Power Incline™ to 16 degrees
• Low step-on height
• Contoured multi-position Handlebars
• Contact Heart Rate Grips
• MP3 player port & speakers
• Audio in/out jack
• Cushioned, Pivoting Foot Pads
• 14-lb front flywheel
• 275 lb. user weight capacity
• Warranties: lifetime frame & brake, 1 year power incline, parts, and labor

The Word on the Street

UPDATE:  The EX-77 elliptical has been discontinued and is no longer available for sale. You can check out the latest Horizon elliptical reviews here.

Experts point out key features of the Horizon EX 77 in their reviews, such as the way the narrow pedal spacing allows for a more ergonomic and comfortable gait, and that the stride pattern can be lengthened to 19" for a taller user. The height and position of the handlebars, with heart rate monitor sensors, are also very comfortable.

It’s not a commercial grade elliptical trainer but for the amount of features combined with the adjustable stride, cushioned pedals, and power incline, the Horizon EX 77 offers exceptional value at this price.

There are plenty of things consumers like about this trainer. In consumer elliptical reviews they more often than not mention the 16% incline function which is still something of a novelty for the under-$1000 price range.

They also credit the adjustable stride, user weight capacity, and audio player ports as reasons for their purchase. The EX 77 (as well as the Horizon E1201) are already on many Best Buy lists for 2009.

Our Thoughts

Horizon’s EX 77 trainer has a beautiful console that is easy to read -- it is perhaps the best-designed console we’ve ever seen on a lower end elliptical.

It has a beautiful profile and styling, and has all the bells and whistles you would want in terms of features and programs. On top of everything else, you’ll get a more challenging workout on a machine that offers a power incline, and the pivoting footpads help to keep your feet from going numb over the course of a long workout.

We really like the Horizon EX 77 elliptical trainer and have no reservations about recommending it.