We reviewed and used the Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer over a period of 3 weeks. We also interviewed Life Fitness X3-5 owners as well as several people who had used the elliptical trainer in the gym or fitness center. The X3-5 is a step up from the old X3-0 model and has many top of the line features. However for an MSRP of about $2900.00 it is beyond the budget of the average home fitness equipment buyer. We found that the Life Fitness elliptical trainers top feature was the very smooth ride comes from its rear flywheel that incorporates the Life Fitness Link6 drive system.

The Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainers 19-inch stride fits most people. Our largest tester is a power lifter at 6′2″ and 285 lbs and he felt the trainer was relatively stable. Pedal placement is good and allows comfortable foot placement. X3-5 owners and users were pleasantly impressed with how quiet this elliptical trainer is even during an intensive workout it remained one of the quietist ellipticals that we have tested. One owner did complain that this model was hard to move.

There are many quality features on the Life Fitness X3-5 that we like including the wireless heart rate controlled workout system that allows you to target specific workout intensity. Basically your hearts response to the workout, controls the resistance levels you experience during the workout. Basically it is a plug and play workout program tailored to your specific body.

The Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainers console contains the My Personal Trainer software that allows you focus on lower body workouts or total body workouts. We heard several comments on these features with the most common being that it worked well once you spent the time to figure out the system. Most people were using one of the 12 standard workout programs to achieve the workout intensity they desired. We rated the upper body workout and the handlebars as just average on this elliptical.

Most of the Life Fitness X3-5 owners we interviewed purchased their elliptical trainers on-line. The units were delivered and set up by the owners with few problems. Damaged or non functioning consoles seem to be the biggest complaint we heard. Customer service was rated as fair in resolving setup and warranty issues. The Life Fitness warranty for cross traines includes a lifetime on the frame, 2-years on the electrical and mechanical parts, 1-year on labor. An extended warranty is recommended for all elliptical trainers.

We recommend the Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer for home and light commercial use, however it is probably too expensive for most in home applications. It has many features that will satisfy the most dedicated cardio fitness buf. Due to the relatively high cost for an in home elliptical trainer, we recommend that you spend the time to physically test ride any fitness equipment at least once before you make your purchase. Find a dealer, fitness center or local Y that has the Life Fitness X3-5 set up and complete an intense workout. we also suggest that you question X3-5 users at these fitness centers as well. Only then will you know for sure that the Life Fitness X3-5 will meet your fitness needs.

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