• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content

Treadmill Review Guru

Expert Home Gym & Treadmill Reviews

  • Home
  • Treadmill Reviews
    • NordicTrack
      • Commercial 1250
      • Commercial 1750
      • Commercial 2450
      • X22i Incline Treadmill
      • X16 Incline Treadmill
      • X24 Incline Treadmill
      • EXP 10i
    • Sole
      • F63 Treadmill
      • F80 Treadmill
      • F85 Treadmill
      • F89 Treadmill
      • F65 Treadmill
      • TT8 Treadmill
      • ST90 Treadmill
    • Horizon
      • T101 Treadmill
      • T202 Treadmill
      • 5.0 AT Treadmill
      • 7.0 AT Treadmill
      • 7.4 AT Treadmill
      • 7.8 AT Treadmill
    • ProForm
      • Pro 2000
      • Pro 9000
      • Carbon TLX
    • Bowflex
      • Treadmill 22
      • Treadmill 10
    • Echelon
      • Stride-6s
      • Stride-s
    • Assault Fitness
      • Runner Elite
      • Runner Pro
    • TrueForm
      • Runner
      • Trainer
    • Peloton
      • Peloton Tread
    • LifeSpan
      • TR1200
      • TR5000
    • WalkingPad
      • A1 Pro
      • C1
      • C2
      • R2 2-in-1
      • X21
      • X25
    • LifeFitness
      • Run CX
      • F3
    • Xterra
      • TRX5500
      • TRX4500
      • TRX3500
      • TR150
    • Matrix
      • TF30
      • T75
  • Best Equipment
    • Best Treadmills
      • Best Overall Treadmills
      • Best Compact Treadmills
      • Best Quiet Treadmills
      • Best Folding Treadmill
      • Best Under Desk Treadmills
      • Best Manual Treadmills
      • Best Incline Treadmills
      • Best Treadmill For Runners
      • Best Treadmill For Walking
      • Best Cheap Treadmills
      • Best Treadmill Under $1000
      • Best Treadmill Under $1500
      • Best Treadmill Under $2000
      • Best Treadmill For Heavy People
      • Best Treadmill For Seniors
      • Best Commercial Treadmill
      • Best Treadmill Mat
    • Best Rowing Machines
    • Best Ellipticals
      • Best Elliptical Overall
      • Best Under Desk Elliptical
    • Best Exercise Bikes
      • Best Exercise Bike Overall
      • Best Air Bike
      • Best Recumbent Bike
      • Best Cheap Exercise Bikes
    • Best Inversion Tables
    • Best Weighted Vest
    • Best Treadmill Running Shoes
    • Best Vertical Climbers
    • Best Keto Protein Powder
    • Best Home Gym Flooring
  • Exercise Bikes
    • Best Exercise Bikes
    • NordicTrack
      • X24 Bike
      • S27i Studio Bike
      • S22i Studio Bike
      • VU 29 Upright Bike
      • R35 Recumbent
    • Sole
      • SB1200
      • SB900
      • LCR Recumbent
      • R92 Recumbent
    • ProForm
      • Studio Bike Pro 14
    • Bowflex
      • C6 Bike
      • Velocore Bike
    • Assault Fitness
      • AssaultBike Elite
      • AssaultBike Pro X
    • Peloton
      • Peloton Bike
      • Peloton Bike+
    • Echelon
      • EX-5 Bike
      • Ex-5s Bike
    • Horizon
      • 5.0 IC Bike
      • 7.0 IC Bike
    • Keiser
      • M3i Bike
    • Bodi
      • Bodi Bike
    • Schwinn
      • Airdyne AD7
      • 270 Recumbent
    • Rogue
      • Echo Bike
    • Freebeat
      • LIT Bike
      • Boom Bike
    • Wahoo
      • KICKR Bike
    • Concept2
      • BikeERG
  • Home Gym
    • Best Rowing Machines
      • Concept2
        • RowERG
      • Hydrow
        • Hydrow Rower
        • Hydrow Wave
      • NordicTrack
        • RW900
        • RW700
        • RW600
      • Ergatta
        • Ergatta Rower
        • Ergatta Lite
      • Aviron
        • Strong Series
        • Strong Go
      • ProForm
        • 750R
        • R10
      • Echelon
        • Smart Rower
      • Assault Fitness
        • Elite Rower
        • Pro Rower
      • Sole
        • SR500
      • Peloton
        • Peloton Rower
      • WaterRower
        • WaterRower
    • Best Ellipticals
      • NordicTrack
        • X16 Elliptical
        • FS14i
        • FS10i
        • AirGlide 14i
        • AirGlide 7i
      • Sole
        • E25
        • E35
        • E95
        • E95s
        • E98
      • Bowflex
        • Max Trainer M6
        • Max Trainer M9
      • Horizon
        • 7.0 AE
        • EX-59
  • Guru Blog
About Us | Contact Us
*TreadmillReviewGuru helps consumers find the best home fitness products. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review | Training Made Simple

By
  • Sydney Kaiser
    Sydney Kaiser
    X
    Sydney Kaiser
    Sydney KaiserProduct Reviewer, Content Writer, Certified Personal Trainer

    Sydney is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer, and sports nutritionist who combines her passion for fitness, health, and wellness with her passion for writing. After graduating from UC Riverside with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, she began teaching indoor cycling and Lagree Fitness group fitness classes to people of all ages and abilities. Raised in Central Michigan, Sydney grew up training and competing on the Arabian Horse Association circuit through both Regional and National levels in Dressage and Sport Horse classes. In college, Sydney went on to compete at the collegiate level as a Division 1 equestrian athlete. Here at TRG, Sydney relies on her extensive background in fitness when reviewing and recommending all kinds of fitness, recovery, and health-related equipment and products.

    See full bio
  • Kaleigh Ray
    Kaleigh Ray
    X
    Kaleigh Ray
    Kaleigh Ray

    Kaleigh received a master’s in Biomechanics from the University of Northern Colorado in 2022. She is a runner and competed in Division 2 cross country and track. Since college, she has competed in trail and road races from the mile to marathon distance. Kaleigh is certified as an exercise physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine and has worked as both a personal trainer and a running coach. At TRG, Kaleigh combines her expertise in biomechanics with over a decade of running experience to review and test treadmills and other fitness equipment.

    See full bio
October 29, 2024
Is the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical’s affordability a strength or weakness?

October 29, 2024
  • Sydney Kaiser
    Sydney Kaiser,
    Product Reviewer, Content Writer, Certified Personal Trainer
  • Kaleigh Ray
    Kaleigh Ray
    Product Reviewer, Content Writer, Biomechanist

The elliptical is the most underrated cardio machine. It is most like running but engages the upper body more, is low-impact, and has resistance levels, too. The Horizon EX-59 is one of the most affordable ways to get this workout at home.

I love Horizon’s commitment to affordability. The EX-59 may not be the best elliptical for serious athletes, but it is a great entry point for budget shoppers into the world of home fitness. I’ve been a long-time resident of that world, and I’m happy to share my thoughts on this machine with you.

The EX-59’s affordability is hard to pass up. Yet, we understand there can be risks when choosing a cheaper cardio machine. As avid users of Horizon’s cardio machines, we know what they are like. Scroll down for all the details on the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical!

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review: Bottom Line

  • Star Rating
  • PriceMSRP: $699
  • ManufacturerHorizon
  • Typefront-drive
Best Price at Horizon
70
The Horizon EX-59 is an affordable front-drive elliptical with a lifetime frame warranty and 300-lb weight capacity.
Rating MetricOur Rating
  • Workout Experience
    6
  • Specs / Features
    5
  • Dimensions / Storability
    7
  • On-Board Workouts & Apps
    5
  • Build Quality
    6
The Horizon EX-59 is best as an entry point into home fitness or a backup to a routine outside your home—in the gym or outside. If you are a beginner who wants a low-impact, full-body workout, you are in the right place. It has a simple build with a lifetime frame warranty, perfect for taking those first steps on your fitness journey.

I don’t recommend the EX-59 for intense workouts, like elliptical sprints. I like it more for moderate-intensity training—think zone 2 heart rate training. It could be a great cross-training option for runners or cyclists who need a gentle cardio option on their recovery days. The Horizon EX-59’s straightforward design, simple console, and large buttons will also appeal to seniors.

Keep reading the rest of our review for the full picture of what the Horizon EX-59 offers.

What We Like
  • Affordable elliptical for your home
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Bluetooth connectivity options
  • Smooth stride
  • Compact footprint
  • Quiet magnetic resistance on the flywheel
  • Built-in speakers
  • Light-weight and easy to move
Areas for Improvement
  • Lighter flywheel than comparable machines
  • Clunky/Outdated console
  • Limited hand placement options
  • No fan
  • Not foldable

Check Best Price


Experienced Fitness Professional Evaluating Exercise Equipment

We have a lot of fitness equipment, but unfortunately, we can’t have every machine. Fortunately, our experience using all sorts of brands and equipment allows us to assess cardio machines more easily. We have been using Horizon treadmills for a long time, so we know the quality to expect from the EX-59.

Our goal is to represent equipment as accurately as possible. When we receive the Horizon EX-59, we will update this review after our team of fitness experts, coaches, and exercise scientists conduct their testing.

Editor’s Note, 10/29/2024: We updated this review to reflect the latest edition of the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review: Bottom Line
    • Experienced Fitness Professional Evaluating Exercise Equipment
  • Horizon EX-59 vs. Similar Ellipticals
  • Dimensions/Storability
  • Onboard Workouts & Apps
    • Console
    • Heart Rate Monitoring
    • Bluetooth Speakers
    • Extra perks
  • Build Quality
    • Frame
    • Drive System
    • Resistance
    • Foot Pedals
    • Multi-grip handlebars
    • Medium Capacity
  • Should You Buy the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical?
  • Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Q&A / FAQ
    • What are the disadvantages of an elliptical?
    • How do I fix a blank screen on an EX-59 elliptical?
    • Which elliptical machine is best for weight loss?
    • How do you reset the Horizon EX-59’s console?
    • Category Posts

Horizon EX-59 vs. Similar Ellipticals

See how the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical compares to other ellipticals below.

Horizon EX-59 EllipticalHorizon EX-59Sole E25 Elliptical MachineSole E25NordicTrack Airglide 7i EllipticalNordicTrack AirGlide 7iSole E35 Elliptical MachineSole E35Horizon 7.0 AE EllipticalHorizon 7.0 AE
Price (MSRP)
Star Rating
Bottom LineThe Horizon EX-59 is an affordable treadmill with a simple console and onboard training programs.The Sole E25 is a great entry-level elliptical for budget shoppersThe NordicTrack AirGlide 7i Elliptical uses magnetic resistance, incline, and iFIT classes to create an intense workout on its front-drive construction.The Sole E35 is one of our favorite compact ellipticals with added content for free!The Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical is a budget-friendly machine with a lifetime frame warranty.
Awards Earned
Check PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
ProductHorizon EX-59Sole E25NordicTrack AirGlide 7iSole E35Horizon 7.0 AE
Workout Experience
6
7
7
7
7
Specs / Features
5
6
7
7
6
Dimensions / Storability
7
7
7
7
7
On-Board Workouts & Apps
5
6
9
8
5
Build Quality
6
7
7
7
6
Overall Score
70
82
80
84
74
# of Onboard Workouts592100+8
Paid Programming - CostN/ASole+ - FreeiFIT - $39/monthSole+ - FreeN/A
Netflix / 3rd Party AppsN/AN/ANetflix, Prime (in beta-testing)YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Max, Peacock, Hulu, Spotify, ESPN, CNN, Audible, KinomapN/A
Display4.5” LCD7.5" Backlit LCD7" HD touchscreen display10.1" Touchscreen7" LCD screen
Dimensions (In Use)74" x 25" x 64.5"70"L x 24"W x 70"H69" L x 25" W x 71" H70"L x 31"W x 70"H76" L x 24" W x 65.5" H
Deck Size
Treadmill Weight
Weight Capacity300 lbs350 lbs300 lbs350 lbs325 lbs
Motor Size
Max Speed
Incline/DeclineN/A20 Incline Levels-5% to 15% Incline20 Levels of Incline20 levels
WarrantyLifetime frame; 1-year brake, parts, and laborLifetime frame and flywheel, 2 years parts and wear items, 1 year labor, 90 days cosmetic items10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year laborLifetime frame and flywheel, 2 years parts and wear items, 1 year labor, 90 days cosmetic itemsLifetime frame and brake, 3-year parts, and 1-year flywheel and labor
Additional FeaturesTablet rack, speakers, water bottle holderFree Sole+ app included on your device, device rack, comfortable oversized pedalsBluetooth, SmartAdjust, Oversized cushioned pedalsBuilt-in speakers, wireless charging, device rack, adjustable pedalsDevice rack, pulse sensor hand grips, fast incline adjustments
Show full specification detailsHide full specification details

Dimensions/Storability

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical measures 74” x 25” x 64.5” and does not fold, so you will need to accommodate its full size whether or not it is in use. The front stabilizer has wheels on the ends to help you move it around. You lift and hold it by the rear stabilizer to steer it.


Onboard Workouts & Apps

There are ten preset onboard programs to help you meet your fitness goals. Choose from calorie, distance, interval, manual, weight loss presets, and away you go! Just choose a workout option that suits you best.

Console

The console is the control center for the EX-59 elliptical. The tablet rack at the top of the console and the adjacent rapid-charge USB port allow you to keep your devices charged while you use them during your workout.

With Bluetooth-enabled speakers, you can simply pair your device and stream your music or other entertainment right through the console.

The console features 3 LED display windows, making selected information easy to see. The display windows allow you to monitor time, distance, pedal rotations per minute (RPM), calories burned, heart rate, and resistance level.

Along the left and right sides of the console are numbered Quick Keys to reach desired resistance levels rapidly. In the center, you’ll see the program select buttons and the important start, stop, and enter buttons.

Heart Rate Monitoring

The onboard heart rate monitoring system makes monitoring your heart rate a snap. The Contact Heart Rate Sensors are located just below the console on the stationary handlebars. Gripping the sensors will initiate the monitor, and your beats per minute will show on the middle display window.

Bluetooth Speakers

Having Bluetooth-enabled speakers onboard makes streaming music or other entertainment easy. Once you pair your device with the speakers, you can remove those earbuds and enjoy easy listening through the integrated console speakers.

Extra perks

This basic exercise machine doesn’t have many bells and whistles. The integrated tablet holder is convenient for holding your entertainment device without blocking the console. The rapid charging USB port is close by to keep your device charged while you burn those calories. The water bottle holder allows you to stay hydrated while you train.

Check Best Price


Build Quality

Frame

This elliptical frame has what Horizon Fitness calls a “SixStar” design. It’s engineered with six features that make for comfortable motion:

  • It helps you stay upright–instead of leaning forward
  • Narrow pedal spacing
  • Optimal handlebar spacing
  • 10” step-on height
  • Natural stride
  • Smooth momentum

The EX-59 works best for people who weigh under 175 pounds or have a shorter stride–though it does have a weight limit of up to 300 pounds.

Drive System

A 14.3 lb flywheel, along with an advanced pulley system, provides a steady motion. This will help you feel comfortable and maintain endurance as you train.

Resistance

Magnetic resistance is the industry’s new standard when it comes to resistance levels—the EX-59 harnesses this no-maintenance technology with ten quiet resistance levels to choose from. So, whatever your fitness level may be, you can still find a challenge with this elliptical.

Foot Pedals

The pedals are relatively low to the ground (10 ¾ inches), so they’re easier to get on and off. The distance between the pedals is closer together, helping reduce stress on your ankles, knees, hips, and back. By mimicking your body’s natural movements, you will experience a more fluid, enjoyable workout.

Multi-grip handlebars

The heart rate grips and handlebars are within comfortable reach, so you never have to overextend or stretch to hold them during your workout.

Medium Capacity

With a maximum user weight of 300 lbs, the EX-59 can generally accommodate most users.


Should You Buy the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical?

We feel the Horizon EX-59 elliptical trainer is a sturdy, well-made, and affordable piece of exercise equipment for new and intermediate exercisers. With such a quick set-up, great warranty, and 30-day guarantee, Horizon eliminates all excuses and makes the EX-59 Elliptical your go-to home gym cardio centerpiece.

This high-quality home exercise equipment is good for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles of a more expensive elliptical. It has everything you need for an effective and enjoyable workout–though we think the console is a little clunky and outdated. It’s compact and easy to move if you have a small space, though we wish it were foldable.

The 300-pound weight limit means most people in your household can enjoy the EX-59. The 18” stride is adequate for most, but you may want to look elsewhere if you’re a taller individual or have a long stride. It’s smooth and quiet, and the pedals are designed to keep you comfortable.

We love the 0% financing for up to two years and Horizon’s money-back guarantee. If unsatisfied, you can return it for a full refund within 30 days. It’s an affordable, risk-free investment.

Check Best Price


Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Q&A / FAQ

What are the disadvantages of an elliptical?

Not all ellipticals are designed for a high cadence or rotations per minute. You may not be able to “sprint” on all elliptical machines. Another disadvantage is the geometry of ellipticals. The stride or handle range of motion may not be suitable for all statures, especially if the machine is not adjustable.

Other elliptical disadvantages include their large size, heavy weight, and lackluster programs. Ellipticals do not have the same community and virtual classes that treadmills, exercise bikes, and rowers do.

How do I fix a blank screen on an EX-59 elliptical?

Your elliptical may need a software update from Horizon. Visit the Horizon help page or contact Horizon support for more information.

Which elliptical machine is best for weight loss?

All ellipticals can be used as weight-loss tools. In addition to the Horizon EX-59, we recommend the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i, ProForm Pro HIIT H14, Sole E25, and Sole E35 ellipticals.

How do you reset the Horizon EX-59’s console?

Press the ‘stop’ key and hold it for three seconds.

Check Best Price

Category Posts

  • Memorial day treadmill sales
    Memorial Day Sales 2025 – Fitness Equipment Deals
  • How to Use a Treadmill to Run Properly
    How To Run On A Treadmill Properly And Improve Your Running Form
  • Black Friday Fitness Deals
    Black Friday & Cyber Monday Fitness Deals 2024: Start Here!
  • Black Friday and Cyber Monday Treadmill Deals
    Black Friday Treadmill Deals 2024: Score Discounts Here!
  • Black Friday/Cyber Monday Exercise Bike Deals 2023
    Black Friday Exercise Bike Deals 2024 – Don’t Miss Out!

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Stay Connected - Get The Latest News & Updates!

About | Contact | Affiliate Disclosure | Scholarship | Privacy Policy | Treadmill Deals
© 2012-2024 Treadmill Review Guru.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

logo
  • Home
  • Treadmill Reviews
    • NordicTrack
      • Commercial 1250
      • Commercial 1750
      • Commercial 2450
      • X22i Incline Treadmill
      • X16 Incline Treadmill
      • X24 Incline Treadmill
      • EXP 10i
    • Sole
      • F63 Treadmill
      • F80 Treadmill
      • F85 Treadmill
      • F89 Treadmill
      • F65 Treadmill
      • TT8 Treadmill
      • ST90 Treadmill
    • Horizon
      • T101 Treadmill
      • T202 Treadmill
      • 5.0 AT Treadmill
      • 7.0 AT Treadmill
      • 7.4 AT Treadmill
      • 7.8 AT Treadmill
    • ProForm
      • Pro 2000
      • Pro 9000
      • Carbon TLX
    • Bowflex
      • Treadmill 22
      • Treadmill 10
    • Echelon
      • Stride-6s
      • Stride-s
    • Assault Fitness
      • Runner Elite
      • Runner Pro
    • TrueForm
      • Runner
      • Trainer
    • Peloton
      • Peloton Tread
    • LifeSpan
      • TR1200
      • TR5000
    • WalkingPad
      • A1 Pro
      • C1
      • C2
      • R2 2-in-1
      • X21
      • X25
    • LifeFitness
      • Run CX
      • F3
    • Xterra
      • TRX5500
      • TRX4500
      • TRX3500
      • TR150
    • Matrix
      • TF30
      • T75
  • Best Equipment
    • Best Treadmills
      • Best Overall Treadmills
      • Best Compact Treadmills
      • Best Quiet Treadmills
      • Best Folding Treadmill
      • Best Under Desk Treadmills
      • Best Manual Treadmills
      • Best Incline Treadmills
      • Best Treadmill For Runners
      • Best Treadmill For Walking
      • Best Cheap Treadmills
      • Best Treadmill Under $1000
      • Best Treadmill Under $1500
      • Best Treadmill Under $2000
      • Best Treadmill For Heavy People
      • Best Treadmill For Seniors
      • Best Commercial Treadmill
      • Best Treadmill Mat
    • Best Rowing Machines
    • Best Ellipticals
      • Best Elliptical Overall
      • Best Under Desk Elliptical
    • Best Exercise Bikes
      • Best Exercise Bike Overall
      • Best Air Bike
      • Best Recumbent Bike
      • Best Cheap Exercise Bikes
    • Best Inversion Tables
    • Best Weighted Vest
    • Best Treadmill Running Shoes
    • Best Vertical Climbers
    • Best Keto Protein Powder
    • Best Home Gym Flooring
  • Exercise Bikes
    • Best Exercise Bikes
    • NordicTrack
      • X24 Bike
      • S27i Studio Bike
      • S22i Studio Bike
      • VU 29 Upright Bike
      • R35 Recumbent
    • Sole
      • SB1200
      • SB900
      • LCR Recumbent
      • R92 Recumbent
    • ProForm
      • Studio Bike Pro 14
    • Bowflex
      • C6 Bike
      • Velocore Bike
    • Assault Fitness
      • AssaultBike Elite
      • AssaultBike Pro X
    • Peloton
      • Peloton Bike
      • Peloton Bike+
    • Echelon
      • EX-5 Bike
      • Ex-5s Bike
    • Horizon
      • 5.0 IC Bike
      • 7.0 IC Bike
    • Keiser
      • M3i Bike
    • Bodi
      • Bodi Bike
    • Schwinn
      • Airdyne AD7
      • 270 Recumbent
    • Rogue
      • Echo Bike
    • Freebeat
      • LIT Bike
      • Boom Bike
    • Wahoo
      • KICKR Bike
    • Concept2
      • BikeERG
  • Home Gym
    • Best Rowing Machines
      • Concept2
        • RowERG
      • Hydrow
        • Hydrow Rower
        • Hydrow Wave
      • NordicTrack
        • RW900
        • RW700
        • RW600
      • Ergatta
        • Ergatta Rower
        • Ergatta Lite
      • Aviron
        • Strong Series
        • Strong Go
      • ProForm
        • 750R
        • R10
      • Echelon
        • Smart Rower
      • Assault Fitness
        • Elite Rower
        • Pro Rower
      • Sole
        • SR500
      • Peloton
        • Peloton Rower
      • WaterRower
        • WaterRower
    • Best Ellipticals
      • NordicTrack
        • X16 Elliptical
        • FS14i
        • FS10i
        • AirGlide 14i
        • AirGlide 7i
      • Sole
        • E25
        • E35
        • E95
        • E95s
        • E98
      • Bowflex
        • Max Trainer M6
        • Max Trainer M9
      • Horizon
        • 7.0 AE
        • EX-59
  • Guru Blog