Cybex 525AT Total Body Arc Trainer Review
Cybex 525AT Total Body Arc Trainer Rating
Detailed Overview
The machine is a compact yet capable Total Body Arc Trainer with excellent basics and enticing add-ons. Designed for use in clubs and home gyms, this high quality alternative to elliptical trainers offers the dual benefits of intense training and a low-impact ride. It is the most streamlined Total Body Arc Trainer in a collection that also includes the 625AT arc trainer and 770AT arc trainer.
Cybex Arc Trainers are distinguished by their patented arc motion. Compared with an elliptical motion, the arc or crescent shape helps trainees burn calories faster. At the same time, the Cybex puts minimal stress on knees and other joints. The 525AT supports upper body and lower body motion simultaneously for rapid calorie burn and all-over toning. The lower body stride length has so many possibilities that the 525AT is a three-in-one fitness machine. The maximum stride setting of 24” (61 cm) puts the trainer in “glide” mode (shorter lengths for striding and climbing are also available).
Arc Trainers are popular at gyms because they further each user’s goals in a fun and efficient manner. Preset programs support fast results for cardio fitness, weight loss, and strength. The 525AT has a maximum resistance of 600 Watts and can be used at 21 incline levels. Other trainers in this series have a maximum resistance of 900 Watts. All have 21 incline levels and a max 24” stride.
The console has convenience features including a magazine rack, a water bottle holder and two utility trays. The multilingual computer has the following workout modes: Quick Start (Manual mode), weight loss levels, cardio, and strength. The programs have 10 levels and automatically adjust the Arc Trainer’s incline and resistance.
Feedback includes time, distance, calories, calories per hour, strides per minute, incline, resistance, and heart rate (heart rate range is indicated with a color-coded system). Progress is shown on an 8 x 5 LED, which is the smallest display in this series. The 525AT and other Arc Trainers can be upgraded with a 15.6” high-definition monitor and Cybex GO for more workouts and entertainment including live TV and on-demand video.
Cybex Arc Trainer frames are available in Eclipse Black, Arctic White, Platinum Sparkle and virtually any other color scheme. The product is made in the USA with impressive quality control, backed by a choice of full commercial, entry commercial, and residential warranties.
Our Favorite Features
- Low impact
- Train for strength, cardio and weight loss
- Great for muscle targeting via glide, stride or climb settings
- Has preset workout variety
- Connects with iPhones and iPods
- Optional Cybex GO Platform for extra workout support and entertainment
- Optional 15.6” monitor with three viewing modes
- Long residential warranty
- Color choice
Our Least Favorite Feature(s)
- Price
- Short commercial warranty
- No cooling fan
- No heart rate control
- Lower maximum resistance (600 Watts versus 900)
The Bottom Line
The Cybex 525AT is a great value for light commercial settings and home gyms. It’s also durable enough for high-traffic gyms, even though it’s not as powerful as other Arc Trainers. The vast majority of users will find this trainer to be both challenging and rewarding.
