People exercise for different reasons. Some do it to build bigger muscles and bulky physique, others for muscle toning just to be in shape.
On the other hand, some people engage in physical exercise for the all-around health benefits it offers. This final set of persons could do with medium intensity, convenient cardio exercise rather than intense resistance training.
But what if you want both cardio and strength?
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
Overview
Teeter FreeStep = Cardio + Strength - Stress
This recumbent cross trainer and elliptical is an excellent way to do a comfortable, low-impact workout without worrying about pains or soreness. You do not subject yourself to dead weights or your own self-weight. It gives you the feeling of jogging at a spot while seated, so there's zero impact on your knees.
Essentially, you won't get to feel the soreness that comes with jogging or running around your neighborhood.
The dual action motion targets both glutes, quadriceps and hamstrings as well as biceps and triceps and engages chest and back muscles.
Many customers have rated this device over 4 and even 5 stars. But since everybody's needs and tastes cannot be the same, would the Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer be the right choice for you?
Let's find out.
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Who Is Teeter?
Teeter is a family owned business that started in 1981. The initial products were designed for people with back issues.
The owner, Roger Teeter, developed products that would help relieve his own back problems due to excessive water skiing. And now, he is widely recognized as the pioneer for inversion theory equipment.
The company has a terrific motto:
Feel Better. Live Better. Move Better.
From inversion tables, strength trainers, elliptical rowers to recumbent cross trainers, all Teeter products are known for "quality, safety and innovation."
Why Buy Teeter a FreeStep Cross Trainer?
A Total Body Workout
Have an amazing workout without the pain.
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer is particularly suited for people who greatly value fitness training but, unfortunately, cannot go as hard as they would like. It could be that they were injured or at risk of becoming injured. It is also excellent for people battling physical conditions that do not permit them to subject their joints to much strain. who need reduced stress on knees or other joints.
So if you're an older adult or you have some medical condition that limits your ability to exercise yet you still want to get the best workout possible, Teeter FreeStep is one of the best solutions you can find.
With its patented zero-impact stride technology, you have a home workout equipment that doesn't cause discomfort in your knees, ankles, back, or hips. However, it still gives you the same full-body toning that regular cardiovascular exercises offer.
There's so much science that goes into the product because of the target customers it caters to. So if your age or physiology limits your workout intensity (or not), we highly recommend the Teeter FreeStep Trainer over other stationary bikes and ellipticals.
On the other hand,
if you have NO physical constraints and just want a good workout, the Teeter FreeStep can provide this. Just increase the resistance levels.
The cost of the Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross trainer is very reasonable considering the numerous features that come with this exercise machine.
See the Teeter FreeStep in action!
Click to play
What Are the Key Features of the Teeter FreeStep?
Teeter Freestep Features
Listed below are features that make this cross trainer special:
#1 - Comfort
The Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer makes working out a comfortable, fun experience in the comfort of your home. The Patented Stride Technology is designed to protect the knees with a linear, ergonomic path that doesn't stress them.
No achy joints, no sore muscles -- although you'll feel the pressure in the targeted muscles after working them considerably. The SureGrip Handlebars have grips that make them gentle on your palms.
The SoftStep Pedals are large and cushioned, giving every foot size a comfy rest.
You can sit while performing this jog-like workout, which makes it a much more comfortable alternative to ellipticals. The ComfortSelect Seat is 27% thicker and 12% wider in the LT3 than LT1.
You can even choose to recline the seatback to 3 different levels to change the feel of your exercise.
Additionally, the Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer is as noiseless as they come. It operates pretty smoothly due to UltraGlide Bearings, adding to the comfort and sleekness it is known for.
#2 - Resistance System
Like when climbing a flight of stairs, the patented stride motion gives your feet a more linear motion different from ellipticals.
However, although there are eight different resistance levels to this linear foot-motion, it's essential for people who only need light-medium intensity cardio. It's not as tough as what you get from ellipticals, but it's just perfect for its target audience, and it tones muscles noticeable. The Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer gets 5 stars in this regard.
Additionally, you can target different muscles by adjusting the handlebar length or orientation.
#3 - Assembly
Teeter FreeStep comes almost fully assembled. All the internal mechanisms and frame parts are pre-assembled. When you get your delivery, you only need to attach the rear base, stabilized pedals, seat, backrest front bar, and moving handlebars.
Fixing up these parts isn't at all complicated, although you may need an hour to do it properly the first time. The manual is there to guide you.
#4 - Maintenance
The internal mechanism doesn't require lubrication. All you need to do is check the bolts and joined parts occasionally to know if anything is coming loose, so maintenance isn't a hassle.
#5 - Safety and Stability
The Teeter FreeStep Trainer comes with a wide rectangular base that's just above the ground with four short legs, giving it a sturdy foot balance. You can grip the handlebars tightly when climbing and getting off the machine. Although you can adjust them to suit the length of your arm, there are locks to keep the bars in place when in use so you don't lose balance.
Indeed, there's no doubt that the manufacturers built the machine with safety and comfort fully in mind. Knowing that seniors are some of the primary target audience, it's no wonder why.
#6 - Transportation Wheels
This Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical comes with transporation wheels so that you can easily move the machine when not in use.
#7 - TeeterMoveTM App
Get on demand workouts with a guided personal training instructor for free using the TeeterMove App.
Just download the app and stream FreeStep workouts. You can choose classes by fitness level or length. Classes are available for strength and interval training from beginner to advanced classes.
And the best part, there are no subscription fees!
#8 - Specifications
- Maximum User Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Weight: 110.2 lb pounds
- Dimensions: 54.0 x 38.0 x 52.5 inches
- Warranty: Full 2 year warranty
- Folding: No (but has built in transportation wheels)
#9 - Accessories
This product comes with a media rack for holding your smart phone or tablet as well as a water bottle holder.
What Are the Pros and Cons of a Teeter Freestep?
Below are the notable pros and cons of the FreeStep LT-3 Recumbent Cross Trainer.
Pros
Cons
Teeter FreeStep Treadmills LT3 vs LT1 - Which Is Better?
There are currently 2 models of the FreeStep, LT-3 and LT-1. They look very similar in appearance. The primary differences are in the trademark upgraded features and the extended warranty. Notice the LT3 has a thicker and wider seat. Upgrades which were described earlier include:
- SoftStep™ Pedals
- ComfortSelect™ Seat
- SureGrip™ Handles
- UltraGlide™ Bearing
Let's take a look at the Teeter lt1 vs lt3 in action!
What Are Teeter Users Saying?
The vast majority of Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer customers find it very easy to use, smooth and very quiet.
"Great machine that gets the heart pumping & sweat flowing."
Several reviewers have complained of the lack of a heart monitor.
This is an Amazon's Choice product.
FAQs
How much does Teeter FreeStep cost?
Click on the links above and check the current low price on either Amazon.com or Teeter.com.
What muscles can you tone with Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer and Elliptical?
As you move the handlebars back and forth, your shoulders are engaged. You can target your triceps by holding the handlebars down. You can also recline the seat to engage your stomach. In all, the Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer works more muscles than a recumbent bike or elliptical.
How many calories does Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer burn?
Research has shown that Teeter FreeStep Trainer can burn about 17% more calories than a recumbent bike.
How much does the LT-3 weigh?
The crosstrainer weighs 110lbs.
All assembly and user manuals are located on the teeter website found here.
Final verdict - Is Teeter lT-3 Cross Trainer a Good Buy?
We can confidently conclude that the Teeter FreeStep is the most effective low-impact cardio workout from all assessments. Although more expensive than a recumbent bike, it tones more muscles and offers a more well-rounded workout.
The Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer not only would make an excellent choice for any senior or physically limited individual who still desires the amazing health benefits of cardio, but it works for anyone!
If you like this review, you might want to check out our other reviews at HomeFitnessFocus.com.