Summary: I love the distinctive design of the JLL CT500 Elliptical Trainer. The clean lines, and almost minimalistic feel to the back cleverly hides a lot of the best JLL technology. This unit loads the flywheel to the front, leaving plenty of room for a long stride. It uses magnetic resistance (12 levels over a 7kg flywheel) and a multi-functional LCD monitor. You get quality construction, and that famously good service from the UK-based JLL. This is a new model, with the 2021 version freshly added to their impressive range.
Check out the close-ups (zoomable) which explain the key features and see the latest price / delivery dates for yourself now, over on this dedicated amazon.co.uk product page.
This is not the biggest elliptical trainer in the JLL product range – though is still significantly bigger than their budget models. It is approximately 152cms long, 58cms wide and 196cms tall. This is a heavy unit, built to easily pass the safety standards in the UK and Europe (CE and EN957). It is a hefty 62.5kgs – which is almost 3x the weight of those no-name cheapo models.
You will need to assemble it. One buyer noted that this took an hour, with two people. This is on the good side for home elliptical trainers… though that commentor did not quite grasp this!
The flywheel is 7kgs, and the CT500 uses magnetic resistance. This is ideal for smooth and predictable resistance. You change it via a dial, which is in easy reach while you work out.
JLL recommend a maximum user weight of 110kgs (just over 17 stone), though do keep in mind that all the UK equipment makers are cautious with these recommendations.
Non-slip pedals might sound like a given, though anyone that has bought a no-brand elliptical will know just how important this is. The JLL CT elliptical packs a 40cm stride length. The pedals have a unique texture (see the close-up pictures on the product page) and have an adjustable strap to hold your feet securely.
Before I get onto the electronics, there are more practical points to mention. There is a bottle holder, wheels to move your cross-trainer account and a 12-month warranty for the entire unit.
This model has a wider than average LCD monitor. This covers the key stats you need every time you train, plus has built-in programmes. You will see time, calories burned, speed, distance, and an odometer readout as you work out. These scan past one at a time.
There is also a pulse rate display, which is connected to monitors built into the handlebars. There are training programmes built in, though you can just as easily use your elliptical manually. Note that the resistance is controlled manually, not via this LCD display.
Before I get to the regular feedback, one person got really upset with JLL. This is the one mentioned above about the assembly. They don’t specify what the fault was, which makes their semi-literate rant all the more bizarre!
Back to reality and a lot of the feedback is top-rated. The quality and the size were a good surprise for several buyers. The words ‘Smooth’ and ‘Sturdy’ both got mentioned.
If you have bought JLL equipment before, you will know that their combination of solid mid-budget kit, great design and excellent customer service lead to a lot of positive feedback. That said, it pays to check the latest comments before you buy any fitness equipment – things can and do change fast in the world of fitness.
The sweet spot that the CT500 fills is for users that already know they enjoy elliptical trainer workouts – and want a bigger, smoother model without the premium price tag. While not in the commercial category, this is a solid and stylish unit – that comes with safety certification as well as the JLL guarantee.
Feedback (strange rants aside) has been hugely positive, which fits with other products in the JLL range.
Check out the close-ups of the key features for yourself now, over on this dedicated amazon.co.uk product page!
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