Life Fitness X3-5 Elliptical Trainer Review

We reviewed and used the Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer over a 3 week period. We also interviewed owners of the Life Fitness X3-5, as well as several people who had used the elliptical trainer at 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, at an MSRP of approximately $2900.00, it is beyond the budget of the average home fitness equipment buyer. We found that the main feature of the Life Fitness elliptical crosstrainers was the very smooth ride that comes from their rear flywheel incorporating Life Fitness’s “Link6” drive system.

The Life Fitness X3-5 19-Inch Elliptical Trainers fit most people. Our largest tester is a 6’2″ 285 pound weightlifter and felt the trainer was relatively stable. Pedal placement is good and allows for comfortable foot placement. X3-5 owners and users were pleased Impressed with how quiet this elliptical trainer is.Even during an intensive workout it was still one of the quietest ellipticals we’ve tested.

There are a lot of quality features on the Life Fitness X3-5 that we like, including the wireless heart-rate-controlled training system that lets you target a specific workout intensity. Basically, your heart’s response to training controls the resistance levels you experience during training. It’s basically a plug and play training program tailored to your specific body.

The Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer console contains My Personal Trainer software that allows you to focus on lower body or full body workouts. We heard various comments about these features, the most common being that it worked well once you spent time discovering the system. Most people used one of 12 standard training programs to achieve the training intensity they wanted. We rate the upper-body and handlebar workout average on this elliptical.

Most of the Life Fitness X3-5 owners we interviewed bought their elliptical trainers online. The units were delivered and set up by the owners with little trouble. Damaged or non-working consoles seem to be the biggest complaint we hear. Customer service was rated fair in resolving installation and warranty issues. Life Fitness Crosstrain Warranty includes Lifetime on frame, 2 years on 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 home applications. It has many features that will satisfy the most dedicated cardio enthusiast. Due to the relatively high cost of a home elliptical trainer, we recommend that you take the time to physically try out any piece of exercise equipment at least once before making your purchase. Find a local dealer, gym, or Y that has the Life Fitness X3-5 installed and complete an intense workout. we also suggest you ask X3-5 users at these gyms. Only then will you know for sure that Life Fitness X3-5 will meet your fitness needs.