ONLY downside is that metal shavings seem to come off in multiple areas - really any areas that has moving parts… I’ve come up with a work around by wrapping those areas in plastic wrap. It looks funky but it prevents my floors from getting ruined. I started my weight loss journey several years ago. I was able to lose about 7 lbs by removing or lowering my carb intake (you can find lots of recipes online with carb-free or low-carb substitutions for all of your favorite meals, try cauliflower rice; w/ sauce even cauliflower-adverse people enjoy it!). My ability to lose weight from dieting alone plateaued at around 7 lbs so I bought a gazelle and started using it while watching TV. Started at 40-45 mins a day and went up to 80 mins a day. I still use it this day, in fact I’m using it right now as I write this review! It’s an easy workout, an easy to use machine and is quite enjoyable! I find it very easy on my body, joints and mind. I love that I can do other things while exercising on it (I often email and other web based tasks while using it). It is also small enough and light enough to be used anywhere in your home. Doesn’t require a power source (except 2 AA batteries [or maybe it’s AAA] for the odometer/timer/tracker). I live on a 2nd story, have hardwood floors and keep my Gazelle in my bedroom, which is right over the downstairs neighbor’s bedroom. She has NEVER complained of noise or vibrations and I don’t even have the Gazelle on a pad or a rug.