For athletes needing to save space, the best compact exercise equipment can provide small footprints without compromising on performance. The Gazelle Pacer — an iconic “As Seen On TV” home gym machine — falls neatly into this category with its simple design, easy-to-construct profile, and convenient foldability for better storage. While the glider design of this fitness machine (also marketed as the Tony Little Gazelle) does stand out in a sense, if you had to put it in a singular bucket we feel it’s most similar to your typical elliptical.

In our opinion, the Gazelle Pacer can be a fun, simple addition to your home gym, giving you the opportunity to reinvent how you go about your cardiovascular training. However, the lack of integrated programming, as well as its less durable weight capacity, does mean it’s better suited for less intense training regimens. In this Gazelle Pacer review, we’ll outline the main specs of the machine, notes from our hands-on experience, and juxtapose the profile with other similar silhouettes.

For more information on how we test equipment for round-ups and reviews such as this, be sure to read the BarBend equipment testing methodology page.

Main Takeaways

Getting onto the machine itself can be somewhat difficult given the free-swinging design of the foot pedals.

The five-function LCD fitness computer only tracks a handful of metrics and doesn’t include preset programming.

The sub-$200 price point can be a great entry point for beginner athletes just getting started with at-home training.

Gazelle Pacer Specs

The Gazelle Pacer offers low-impact training in a space-saving profile thanks to its 8.36-square-foot footprint. For reference, that’s far smaller than your average loveseat, which can take up 15.31 square feet of space. (1) 

We also appreciate this best compact elliptical thanks to its foldable frame for easier storage. The entire profile folds neatly onto itself, allowing you to conveniently store this Gazelle glider against a wall or underneath furniture when not in use. This storage perk is also enhanced by the 40-pound lightweight frame, which can be easier to tote around than other elliptical machines we’ve tested.

The Gazelle Pacer is a glider-elliptical hybrid with no added resistance.

That said, though, the lightweight frame does somewhat compromise the Gazelle Pacer’s durability. This cardio machine can support athletes up to 250 pounds, which may be too light of a capacity for many people. Additionally, we found that while the steel tubing seems sturdy enough for regular workouts, the plastic components are a little shoddy with misaligned seams, particularly around the center display console (more on that later).

This Gazelle workout machine also features rubber-coated handlebars and textured foot pedals for added grip and traction during low-impact elliptical sessions. The foot pedals measure roughly 14.5 inches long, so they should be accommodating enough for a wide range of foot sizes. However, we do recommend taking your time when getting onto this machine. The free-swinging legs do not lock into place prior to use, so you could be left off-kilter before even getting any of the elliptical benefits you want to reap.

The Gazelle Pacer, while simple, does feature a battery-powered fitness computer for tracking key metrics mid-workout.

Lastly, it’s obvious that this Gazelle profile is a simple workout machine, but that doesn’t mean it’s left without any tech. There is a battery-operated “fitness computer” that sits across the center bar. This console can key metrics including Speed, Distance, Time, and (potential) Calories Burned.

While we found this to be a nice touch to the budget-friendly profile, we do feel it’s more for show. For one, there aren’t any integrated workout programs to choose from for more engaging workouts. Plus, the viewing angle can be somewhat awkward if you don’t line up the pilot holes perfectly during construction. It’s probably best to stick with your best fitness apps and monitor your progress from a separate device rather than relying on this battery-powered screen.

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use the Gazelle Pacer

The Gazelle Pacer is a pretty simple exercise machine, meaning it can be enjoyed by beginner and veteran athletes alike. Like any piece of the best home gym equipment, though, the profile can isn’t ideal for everyone. Here are a few camps we recommend the Gazelle Pacer for, as well as a few groups that may be better off steering clear of this elliptical-glider hybrid.

Recommended for:

Athletes wanting low-impact workouts that aren’t as taxing across the lower body

Those needing a compact fitness machine to fit within their limited training space

Budget-minded athletes wanting to keep their fitness expenses under $250

Not Recommended for:

Individuals more interested in different exercise disciplines like strength training or HIIT

Athletes wanting a library of digital training programs, extra resistance, and preset workouts

Athletes with balance issues — the free-swinging pedals can be difficult to hop onto at times

Our Experience Training With the Gazelle Pacer

We took the Gazelle Pacer through the same paces (pun intended) as the other 23 different elliptical machines we’ve tested over the years, focusing on categories including build quality, available conveniences, integrated tech, and overall home workout experience. We then rated each category on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) for more digestible findings.

Foldable Frame

One of the key features that makes the Gazelle Pacer one of the best ellipticals for small spaces is its folding frame. The low-impact design conveniently scissors together for a profile as thick as the steel tubing, allowing you to easily house this machine under furniture or against an adjacent wall when not in use. I tested this exercise elliptical in my personal garage gym — an area that also doubles as a storage space for lawn equipment and other necessities — so having the ability to fold up this aerobics-centric silhouette was a definite treat.

The Gazelle Pacer folds into itself for easier storage.

We also rate the footprint and portability at 5 out of 5 thanks to the Pacer’s lightweight design. At 40 pounds, we feel most athletes can tote this machine around without much hassle. However, we do recommend moving this Gazelle profile while the machine is folded. The free-swinging legs and foot pedals can jostle unevenly during transport while unfolded, which (as I found out firsthand) can be a perfect recipe for bruised shins and an uncomfortable moving experience.

Simplified Tech

At less than $200, we aren’t necessarily looking for an abundance of tech features when it comes to the Gazelle Pacer. The fact that the machine does include a small LCD display for Time, Speed, Distance, and other key metrics is a bonus in itself, so we do score the Pacer at 2 out of 5 for tech. However, when compared to other best ellipticals, that digital discrepancy can begin to rear its head.

Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, notes, “I do appreciate that this machine will rifle through some helpful metrics during sessions, but I wouldn’t compare it to other tech-heavy systems found in other (albeit larger) machines.” If you want access to the best online workout programs or a machine that offers a wide array of preset programs, you’ll need to spend a little more than the aforementioned $200 threshold.

Previous Gazelle Pacer models — marketed as the Gazelle Freestyle — did include a thumbprint pulse monitor, although it appears this feature has been discontinued. In our opinion, you aren’t missing out with this dropped technology, as thumb- or handle-based pulse monitors are typically less accurate than on-body heart rate monitors you’d wear around your wrist or chest.

Lack of Resistance

You can get a good workout with the Gazelle Pacer, no doubt. That said, you need to be aware that there aren’t any additional resistance levels across this machine, so you’ll be striding against your body weight alone. While I had fun (more than I want to admit) with this machine, I do believe further enjoyment could be had if there was an added challenge.

Our tester gripping the handlebar of the Gazelle Pacer.

We rated the resistance at 3 out of 5, though, given that the free-swinging legs give you room to adjust your stride length to your liking. The maximum range of 18 inches should be enough for a decent range of fitness levels and body types, although taller athletes may feel somewhat constricted.

Gazelle does offer a resistance-laden glider — the Gazelle Sprinter — which features two pistons for added hydraulic resistance. This particular model, though, is $100 more than the Pacer profile.

[Related: Elliptical Buying Guide]

What to Consider Before Buying the Gazelle Pacer

As with any piece of home gym equipment, there are a few factors worth considering before adding the Gazelle Pacer to your cart. From your available space, to needs in such departments as tech and resistance, here are the components we recommend thinking through before giving this fun, budget-friendly glider a whirl.

Storage Needs: “This is a good place to start, because you’ll be really frustrated if you buy an elliptical that doesn’t fit in your intended space or, if you need to be flexible with your space, isn’t easy to move,” explains Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. Take some measurements and ensure that your fitness machine can fit neatly in your intended training area, or, at least, has the capability to fold for more convenient storage when not in use.

Available Tech: If you’re in need of home gym equipment compatible with your other devices like the best heart rate monitors and fitness apps, be sure that your chosen profile has the technological capabilities to sync up properly. It can also be wise to opt for an elliptical or glider with preset programs that can give your workouts some outside structure without the need for extra subscriptions or a strong Wi-Fi connection.

Resistance Levels: Training against added resistance can be an excellent way to support hypertrophy, which can lead to improved muscular strength and in-sport performance. (2) When searching for a high-quality elliptical, be sure that the available resistance can accommodate your training goals with added levels of challenge and intensity.

Price: Naturally, price should be a main factor when deciding on an elliptical, or any piece of home gym equipment, for that matter. Look at your finances and ensure you can afford your desired profile along with any additional subscriptions you may need to properly operate the machine.

Gazelle Pacer Vs. Competitors

OK, so the Gazelle Pacer may be one of the best budget ellipticals on the market, but that doesn’t mean its unique silhouette isn’t without competition. Below, we’ve outlined the comparable specs for two high-quality compact ellipticals — the SF-E902 from Sunny Health and Fitness and the E9 Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine from Yosuda.

The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E902 is a very comparable machine to the Gazelle Pacer in that both utilize the glider-style design and feature foldable frames for easier storage. The SF-E902 is also cheaper at $159.99, but with those savings comes a lower maximum weight rating. This SF-E902 model may be better for taller athletes, though, thanks to the lengthier 30-inch stride length that trumps the Pacer’s 18-inch maximum stride length.

Yosuda’s E9 profile more closely resembles your traditional elliptical with a large front flywheel and 16 available resistance levels. While this compact design doesn’t feature any folding capabilities, we’ve found that its footprint is still accommodating enough for those working out in tighter quarters. However, at roughly $660, we feel the Pacer still reigns supreme for those looking for the best value pick available.

[Related: Yosuda Promo Code]

Ordering and Assembling the Gazelle Pacer

The ordering process for the Gazelle Pacer is similar to any online transaction, and the shipping timeline was rather short. In the box, you receive all of the necessary components, along with extra bolts, washers, and a complimentary nutrition guide to help you keep track of the other half of your fitness routine. Previous Gazelle models also included workout DVDs, but we’re not shocked that the brand opted to discontinue this (outdated) media asset.

The Gazelle Pacer’s 14.5-inch foot pedals.

In terms of assembling the Pacer, I had no real issues outside of aligning the center crossbar and attaching the LCD fitness computer. There is one pilot hole at the center that keeps the display in-place, and there’s no way to adjust the viewing angle outside of tightening and loosening the side bolts, which ultimately compromises the structure of the entire profile for a few minutes. Once you get everything in place, though, you should be good to go.

I had no issues with the assembly, otherwise, and the entire process took no more than one hour. This can be especially helpful for those with busy schedules who may not have the time to dedicate an entire afternoon to one piece of fitness equipment.

Places to Buy the Gazelle Pacer

The Gazelle Pacer is available online at the brand’s retail site. Additionally, you can find the Gazelle Pacer at popular third-party retailers such as Amazon and Target.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

As a brand, Gazelle has been making some of the best folding ellipticals for over 15 years. Endorsed by Tony Little — a popular personal trainer and television personality — Gazelle offers two distinct glide profiles each featuring fun, low-impact exercise possibilities for all fitness levels. Gazelle can be reached at service@gazelleglider.com, or via phone at 1-800-519-8061, Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

Warranties

Gazelle offers a 12-month warranty package for the Pacer against defects in materials and workmanship. When purchasing through authorized retailers such as Amazon, you can opt for extended coverage, as well, but these bundles are handled by the retailers themselves rather than the Gazelle brand.

Final Thoughts on the Gazelle Pacer

After using this Gazelle Pacer for multiple workouts, I feel the “As Seen On TV” gimmick isn’t completely useless when it comes to this machine. Striding through sessions is fun and enjoyable, and I appreciate the simplicity of it all — especially when compared to other, more robust ellipticals that take an entire day to build and an army of associates to move into position. That said, I wouldn’t be surprised if athletes looked beyond this glider, especially if they’re searching for a more challenging low-impact workout with added resistance and available programming.

If you’re curious about this Gazelle Pacer, we recommend thinking about your fitness wants and needs. Are you OK with a compact elliptical offering body weight workouts without much tech? If not, you may want to consider profiles beyond the $200 watermark. If you’re cool with this bare-bones silhouette and want an enjoyable way to get your strides in each day, this could be the exercise machine for you. In the words of Tony Little, “You can do it!”

Gazelle Pacer FAQs

References

Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/

Krzysztofik, M., Wilk, M., Wojdała, G., & Gołaś, A. (2019). Maximizing muscle hypertrophy: A systematic review of advanced resistance training techniques and methods. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(24), 4897. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6950543/

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