Ab Trainer Abdominal Machine Exercise Crunch Roller Workout Exerciser, Black

First, the packaging is mediocre at best. The unit comes in 7 pieces, each in a thin bubble-wrap sleeve and all set inside a box. Second, I really cannot tell if all of the pieces I received are new, or re-packaged, or if they just appear pre-owned because they were shipped from China in less-than-ideal conditions. Anyway, they were not pristine looking, nor were they obviously used. The headrest looked brand new, so I went ahead and assembled it.Assembly is very easy. The pieces only fit a certain way. It took 10, maybe 15 minutes tops. Once assembled the unit seems sturdy. I gave it a try and did not feel any wobbling and everything stayed together.Using it is very easy. I am short and I agree with other reviews that it is quite a stretch to get to that top bar. I found myself holding on to the sides, lower down on the pads. You have to adjust your sit up to get a good crunch, but after a few tries I figured it out and definitely felt it in my abs. Also, the crunch is a very small, controlled movement which is great. You have to remember to let the unit guide the movement and not try to force a full-on sit up or you will be disappointed.I had to shave off half a star for the head rest because it really could be more comfortable without costing more. It just needs a better design. The other half-star reduction is for the packaging and look of the individual parts; there really should not be a question of everything being new.For $22 I think it is a really good buy. It provides good form for the crunch, supports my head and does not strain my neck and really allows me to isolate the ab muscles. If it lasts a full year of regular use I would happily pay $22 again next year for a new one.