If you are thinking about buying an exercise machine, the January 2004 Consumer Reports (just came out and I saw it on a news stand) has an article on which exercise machines actually work. It's quite likely your local library has the issue. If I were in the market for exercise equipment, I would read it. I leafed through it and my memory is that they didn't much like the gazelle.

I find walking to be the easiest exercise to stick to and it doesn't require any equipment other than a good pair of shoes. However, the weather doesn't always cooperate, so I am thinking about buying a treadmill.