It can be easy to get stuck in a fitness rut––after all, doing the same type of exercise every single day can start to get yawn-worthy. If this is the case for you, it can be beneficial to use different machines to shake it up a bit. Enter the unique ProForm Pro HIIT H14, which combines a stepper and an elliptical machine into one.
In this ProForm Pro HIIT H14 review, I’ll tell you everything you could possibly want to know about this vertical elliptical. Whether you’re curious about the warranty, general useability, or overall footprint, I have you covered with in-depth information you can count on.
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ProForm Pro HIIT H14
ProForm Pro HIIT H14
Product Highlights
- Unique hybrid trainer that focuses on high-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Combines upper-body punching movements with elliptical stepping
- Effectively work your calves, hamstrings, quads, glutes, biceps, and triceps.
- iFIT-enabled and a 30-day family membership is included
- 14-inch smart HD touchscreen display
- 26 resistance levels with silent magnetic resistance
- 30-pound inertia-enhanced flywheel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Works your entire body
- Quick, intense workouts
- Low-impact
- Compact
- Immersive training
- Preprogrammed workouts available with WiFi connection
Cons
- Assembly is reportedly difficult
- Not great for casual workouts
- Subscription required for full functionality
Bottom Line
The ProForm HIIT H14 is a high-quality and uniquely designed hybrid trainer that effectively provides intense workouts on a compact machine.
A Quick Look at the ProForm Pro HIIT H14
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 is part of ProForm’s HIIT Trainer Series, which also currently features the previous model of the H14, and the Carbon HIIT H7.
ProForm is known for producing solid, mid-range cardio machines for home fitness enthusiasts around the globe. The brand is a part of a larger parent company, formerly known as Icon Health & Fitness, which also owns sister brand NordicTrack.
My Tips:
- Use our ProForm promo code to save extra cash on your purchase!
Pros:
- 14” touchscreen works with iFIT programming
- Screen swivels
- 325-lb user weight capacity
- 30-lb flywheel
- 26 levels of resistance
- Feels sturdy and didn’t shift while being used
- Quiet machine
Cons:
- Complicated assembly process
- More like a stepper than an elliptical
- Handlebars are shaped weirdly
- Lacks a media or device shelf
ProForm Pro HIIT 14 Video Review
Is the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Worth It?
Curious if the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 might be a hi(i)t with you? Take a look at who I think would be head over heels for this vertical elliptical and who should look at something else.
Great for:
- Interactive programming lovers
- Heavier people
- Someone who needs a quiet machine
Not recommended for:
- Someone who wants a traditional elliptical machine
- A foldable cardio machine
- A budget elliptical option
ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical Specs
| Price | Under $1,600 |
| Adjustable resistance | 26 levels |
| Automatic trainer control | Yes |
| Display | 14” smart HD touchscreen |
| Flywheel | 30 lbs |
| Footprint | 66″ L x 29″ W x 52″ H |
| Programming | iFIT (subscription sold separately) |
| Stride | 10” vertical and 5” horizontal |
| Type of resistance | Silent magnetic resistance (SMR) |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor warranty |
| Weight capacity | 325 lbs |
| Wi-Fi | Required for iFIT use |
Going Up (and Horizontally) on the ProForm Pro HIIT H14
Sturdiness is one of the main components I take into account when testing a piece of cardio equipment. Sure, I can analyze the specs ahead of time, but you can’t really know how a machine will operate until you’ve been on it.
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 impressed me with its general sturdiness. Nothing is more irritating than a shaky screen or rocking frame when you’re exercising, and luckily, the H14 has neither.
Besides the solidly built frame, the sturdiness likely has to do with the heavy flywheel. The H14 has a 30-pound flywheel, which is above the industry standard of 16 to 20 pounds. It is super apparent that the flywheel is above average––when you use the H14, it’s shockingly quiet. If you’re looking for a machine that can be used in a shared space without disturbing others, this is a great option.
I will say that the H14 is not your traditional elliptical. You won’t be able to take long strides by any stretch of the imagination. Instead, the H14 acts as more of a stepper machine, since it has a 10-inch vertical and a 5-inch horizontal stride.
If you’re a heavier individual, you’ll appreciate the 325-pound user weight capacity of the H14. Most ellipticals tap out at 275 pounds, so this is above the industry average. I love machines that have a higher weight capacity than normal. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to exercise if they choose and not be limited by their weight.
Some higher-end ellipticals have incline and decline options. The H14 doesn’t but it does have a whopping 26 levels of resistance, which is far better than the industry standard of 12.
Footprint and Portability
Surprisingly, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 has a slightly bulky footprint. Don’t get it twisted––this machine isn’t as space-consuming as a traditional rear-drive elliptical. It is, however, a taller machine that doesn’t fold or compact in any way.
You’ll need to have a dedicated home gym or space for this machine to live. It is also worth noting that the garage shouldn’t be one of those potential places––ProForm will void the HIIT H14’s warranty if it is placed in the garage.
The 2023 version of the HIIT H14 doesn’t have a weight listed on the ProForm website (although the 2021 edition does). However, according to QVC, the machine is 215 pounds, which I wouldn’t consider to be light. If you’re just moving the HIIT H14 around a room, the included set of front-mounted transport wheels can assist you. For those individuals who want to move this machine up or down a flight of stairs, grab an extra set of hands (or two).
Ergonomics
The H14 has two sets of handlebars: One is fixed and the other moves. The moving handlebars are shaped rather oddly––think giant rectangles that you can stick your hand through. The grip on them is fine, but nothing to write home about.
In terms of the foot pedals, ProForm claims that they are “oversized and cushioned.” However, I didn’t think they were particularly well-cushioned or super-sized––they were forgettable and pretty average.
Technology Benefits and Conveniences
If you’re looking for a machine with a touchscreen, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 can deliver. The 14-inch HD touchscreen is able to swivel for viewing programming off of the machine. However, the real star of the show is the iFIT interactive programming.
Currently, ProForm will give you a free 30-day iFIT family membership when you purchase the H14. You’ll be able to take advantage of on-demand strength training, running, and yoga classes. If you decide you like the programming and want to continue after the trial is over, you can pay $180 per year (individual membership), or $396 (family membership with five profiles).
Besides the touchscreen, take advantage of other convenient features like Bluetooth connectivity, a cooling fan, dual speakers, and a water bottle holder.
Comparison to Bowflex Max Trainer M6
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 isn’t the only vertical elliptical trainer we’ve tried. The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is similar in price, but has a few key differences. Check them out below:
Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Product Highlights
- Gets harder as you get stronger
- Stair-stepping design targets muscle development
- Compatible with JRNY app
- Ideal for HIIT workouts
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stair-stepping design targets muscle development
- Compatible with JRNY
- Ideal for HIIT workouts
Cons
- No interactive touchscreen
- Pretty basic display
- Expensive
Bottom Line
The Bowflex M6 provides a heart-pumping, low-impact workout that resembles stair-stepping.
Want to learn more? Check out our full Bowflex Max Trainer M6 review.
| Machine | ProForm Pro HIIT H14 | Bowflex Max Trainer M6 |
| Price | Under $1,600 | Under $1,500 |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | 2-year frame and parts, 90-day labor |
| Display | 14” HD touchscreen | LCD display |
| Resistance | 26 levels | 16 levels |
| Compatible with | iFIT | JRNY |
| Weight capacity | 325 lbs | 300 lbs |
Customer Experience
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 has a below-average 10-year frame warranty. For context, the industry standard on ellipticals is at least a 15-year warranty on the frame. For $1,600, I would expect ProForm to hit the industry standards. Instead, you can add additional warranty years to your machine at checkout. Unfortunately, getting an extra three or five years will cost you––expect to pay an additional $240 to $490.
You can return your ProForm machine within 30 days if you’re not satisfied. However, it is worth noting that you’ll be charged a 10 percent restocking fee and $250 in shipping costs.
You can contact ProForm through a variety of methods: Calling, emailing, and live chatting are all available. I don’t think ProForm is the most responsive when it comes to customer service inquiries. They take a few days to get back to you (at least in my experience).
Ordering and Assembling the ProForm Pro HIIT H14
You can purchase the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 at a variety of retailers besides the ProForm website––think QVC, Best Buy, and Amazon. However, I think the best option is to buy through ProForm, especially since they have great financing options.
Similarly to NordicTrack, ProForm offers financing options through TD Bank. If you qualify, you could pay just $41 per month for 39 months with 0% APR. This is a great option for people who don’t want to fork over almost $1,600 all at once.
When it comes to shipping, you can choose the free standard option, or pay an additional $199 for professional shipping and assembly. Our ProForm rep said the process is particularly difficult, and recommends setting aside a large chunk of time to complete the assembly. If this doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, paying $199 for professionals to do it may be your best option.
Final Verdict of Our ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Review
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 could be an excellent option for your home gym. Check out my final thoughts on this vertical elliptical:
- For those of you who want a more traditional elliptical, this isn’t the machine for you. It feels more like a stepper.
- This machine is both sturdy and quiet––a great recipe for people who share a space with others.
- The 26 levels of resistance are excellent and take this machine from easy to challenging in a snap.
- Don’t store this machine in a garage—the warranty will be voided if you do.
ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Rating
ProForm Pro HIIT H14
Want to see what we really think about this unique, vertical elliptical? Check out our ProForm Pro HIIT H14 review for the inside scoop.
Product Brand: ProForm
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 1599.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.9
ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Review FAQs
Does the ProForm HIIT machine work without iFIT?
You are able to use the ProForm HIIT machine without iFIT. You’ll have the option to bypass iFIT when you start the machine. However, if you have no intentions to use iFIT, there are cheaper alternatives available without screens.
How heavy is the ProForm HIIT trainer?
For some reason, ProForm did not disclose the weight of the newest HIIT H14 machine. However, according to QVC, the trainer weighs 215 pounds.
Is the ProForm H14 good for HIIT workouts?
True to its name, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 is good for HIIT (and getting your heart rate jacked up). Take advantage of the 26 resistance levels to really spice up your workout.
What is the best elliptical for a low-impact workout?
Our favorite elliptical overall is the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i. However, there are quite a few solid ellipticals at reasonable prices. I’d recommend checking out the best ellipticals under $1,000 if you’re on a tight budget.
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