It doesn't look like much but the tension is good and can get your heart rate going. I'm surprised with the performance and the workout I am getting from this elliptical.This elliptical trainer provides a smooth and quiet operation. It has 8 levels of magnetic resistance that you can choose for your own fitness goals, the three pc crank adds stronger intensity and better durability, it has largenon-slip pedals, and last but not least the LCD digital monitor which tracks distance in miles, calories burned, time, speed in miles and pulse. Everything works as expected. So far so good. Love that I can work out my arms as well as legs and it's a quiet machine. Definitely recommned if you're looking for an affordable workout machine that is also effective the search stop here