If you’re looking for affordable home cardio and strength equipment to support low-impact workouts, the Teeter FreeStep LT3 recumbent cross trainer is worth considering. This new trainer offers a practical solution for those looking to stay active without putting unwanted pressure on joints.
The FreeStep LT3 is an upgrade from Teeter’s popular LT1 model. The LT3 boasts a range of new and improved features, but how does it compare to other recumbent cross trainers on the market? Is this affordable recumbent trainer ultimately worth the price?
In this detailed review, we’ll outline everything you need to know about the FreeStep LT3, including the pros, cons, and who we think this trainer is best suited to.
Overview of the Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Elliptical Trainer
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 is a recumbent elliptical cross trainer, which means it’s a hybrid between a recumbent bike and an elliptical machine. This allows you to get a full-body workout targeting both the upper and lower body.
Some of the key specs and features include:
- Recumbent design with adjustable seat and handles
- Magnetic resistance with 13 levels
- Smooth elliptical motion for low-impact exercise
- 300 lb weight capacity
- Cushioned pedals with straps
- Device holder and charging port
- Free workout app – TeeterMove
- Two year warranty
The LT3 combines the best elements of recumbent bikes and cross trainers in this price range into one affordable fitness machine. The result is a quiet, low-impact way to build cardio fitness, burn calories, and even build some functional strength.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Review Scorecard
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 was evaluated across several key criteria important for at-home fitness equipment. Each category was scored out of 5 points by our team of experienced fitness equipment reviewers.
- Build Quality & Safety – 5/5
- The LT3 features a sturdy steel frame and high-quality components that withstand repeated intense workouts. Safety features include a steady, non-slip base and adjustable components to fit users of different heights.
- Workout Diversity – 5/5
- The adjustable magnetic resistance and full-body motion enable diverse home workouts from cardio to strength training, rehab to flexibility exercises.
- Muscle Activation – 4.5/5
- The combined upper and lower body motion engages all major muscle groups. The moving handles work the back, chest, shoulders, and arms while the pedals target leg muscles.
- Shipping, Warranty & Support – 4.5/5
- Free shipping, premium assembly service available, industry-leading 2-year warranty, and excellent US-based customer service.
- Value for Money – 5/5
- At under $1000, the LT3 offers commercial-grade quality and diverse full-body workouts for an affordable price compared to competitors.
- Overall Rating – 4.8/5
- With high marks across all categories, the Teeter FreeStep LT3 is one of the top-rated recumbent ellipticals for low-impact home workouts.
Pros of the Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Elliptical
There are many positives about this elliptical. Here are some of the main benefits we found from using this machine:
Full Body Low-Impact Cardio
Recumbent bikes have always been associated with low-impact workouts. The upright seated position allows you to exercise your legs on the pedals without added stress on your joints. They’ve become trendy for this reason.
However, on a standard recumbent bike, you’ll usually hold onto static handles while pedaling, which only works the lower body.
The LT3 fixes this issue by adding moving handles similar to an elliptical. This allows you to get the upper body involved, working the arms, chest, and back muscles as you pedal.
Although a seemingly simple addition compared to a regular recumbent exercise bike, it makes a big difference. You’ll burn more calories and keep the upper body activated.
Adjustable Resistance for Strength Training
As well as cardio exercise, the adjustable magnetic resistance on the Teeter LT3 enables you to carry out strength-focused workouts by increasing the difficulty.
There are 13 levels of resistance to progress through. Turning the dial makes it harder to push and pull the moving handles and pedal against the magnetic brake on the flywheel.
While not a replacement for hardcore strength training with free weights or machines, it’s enough resistance to strengthen the upper and lower body to a degree with good technique.
Ergonomic Design for Comfort
Everything about the LT3 is designed for comfort, improving the exercise experience and allowing you to workout for longer without fatigue.
The oversized pedals have a slightly textured surface and built-in straps to keep your feet in place as you pedal. The pedals also absorb shock effectively.
The seat can be easily adjusted forwards, backward, and reclined via simple dials on either side. This makes it quick to configure the ideal position for your height and body shape.
Once set up, the ventilated ComfortSelect seat remains cool and supportive with lumbar support. The mesh backrest also helps avoid a sweaty back during intense workouts.
Ultra Quiet Operation
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 is incredibly quiet, thanks to the smooth magnetic resistance system. There is no friction from contact with a physical brake pad.
You can comfortably watch TV or converse with someone while exercising on the LT3. This makes it very suitable for use in an open-plan living space in your home without annoying housemates!
Many recumbent exercise bikes and elliptical trainers drone on loudly as you work out. Magnetic resistance solves this problem and requires no maintenance, unlike friction brake pads.
Smooth Motion for Joint Comfort
The movement of the handles and pedals is designed to be super smooth and natural. This helps reduce unwanted strain on joints and muscles.
It’s important to properly configure the trainer to your height by following the instructions. Once set up, the UltraGlide bearings make for an ultra-smooth gliding motion as you exercise.
For those with injuries or chronic pain, the Teeter FreeStep is a great choice for keeping active without exacerbating problems or causing new aches and pains.
Commercial Grade Quality from Teeter
Teeter is well known for making the best inversion tables on the market. They’ve expanded their product range while maintaining great quality and customer service.
Although there are cheaper alternatives, the build quality and components of the FreeStep are commercial grade. Teeter products last the test of time with regular use.
The LT3 is reassuringly sturdy and stable during intense workouts thanks to a solid steel frame weighing around 100 lb.
60 Day Risk Free Trial
Teeter offers new customers an industry-leading 60-day trial on all their products, including the FreeStep LT3.
This gives you a chance to try it out and get value from the product before fully committing. If you change your mind, returns are free within the trial period.
Most competitors only offer 30 days at most. The generous trial highlights the confidence Teeter has in their recumbent elliptical trainer.
Cons of the Teeter FreeStep LT3
Although we rate the LT3 very highly overall, there are a couple of minor downsides worth mentioning:
- 300 lb weight capacity could be higher
- It doesn’t fold away for storage
The maximum user weight of 300 lb is fairly standard for home-use exercise machines, but it would be nice to see this increased for heavier users in the future.
Folding the trainer away when not in use would also be a valuable feature for small homes. The LT3 is relatively compact and easy to move thanks to built-in transport wheels, but it doesn’t fold up.
However, these are only minor negatives we could find on an otherwise excellent piece of low-impact cardio and strength equipment for home use.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 vs LT1
Teeter also offers the FreeStep LT1 recumbent elliptical, so what’s the difference, and is the newer LT3 model worth the extra cost?
The LT1 is still an excellent machine, but here’s what you get by spending a little more on the upgraded LT3:
- Two-year warranty instead of 1 year
- Upgraded SoftStep Pedals
- More comfortable ComfortSelect seat
- Improved SureGrip Handles
- Smoother UltraGlide bearings
Considering the small price difference between the LT1 and LT3 at the time of writing, we think the upgrades make the LT3 the better choice for most people. However, if budget is tight, the LT1 still offers excellent low-impact workouts.
Who is the Teeter FreeStep LT3 For?
This recumbent cross trainer is ideal for:
- Beginners – very easy to use even if new to exercise
- Seniors and those with limited mobility – low impact and adjustable
- Rehab and injury recovery – strengthen the body gently
- Small spaces – more compact than an upright elliptical
- People who suffer joint pain – fluid motion and cushioning
- Quieter home workouts – smooth magnetic resistance
It’s perfect for anyone who finds high-impact exercises like running difficult but wants an effective way to improve fitness at home. Low-impact cardio, light strength training, recovery sessions, mobility exercises, general activeness… the Teeter LT3 handles it all in a small footprint.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Workouts
Working out on the Teeter FreeStep LT3 is enjoyable and low impact but also highly effective, thanks to the many adjustments possible. Here are some example workout ideas to target different goals:
Cardio:
Recline the seat slightly and set the resistance to an easy level. Pedal at a steady pace for 30-60 minutes whilst holding the moving handles for an upper-body cardio workout that raises your heartbeat.
Strength:
Set the seat upright and resistance to a high level. Pedal slowly whilst actively pulling and pushing the handles to work the leg and arm muscles against resistance.
Calorie Burning:
Increase the incline of the seat and resistance to a moderate level. Pedal quickly and move your arms rapidly for 20-30 minutes. The combined upper and lower body action torches calories.
Intervals for fitness:
Pedal as fast as possible for 30-60 seconds, then slow down to recover for 1-2 minutes. Repeat 5-10 times. Quick bursts raise your heart rate and build fitness fast.
Recovery and mobility:
Recline the seat fully and set the lowest resistance. Gently pedal and move the arms without straining. Great for injury rehab or improving flexibility.
Shipping, Warranty and Customer Support
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 ships free in the continental USA. Assembly is required, but it’s a simple process with clear instructions provided. Teeter also offers a premium assembly service for an additional $199.
A market-leading 2-year warranty is included on the frame and parts for defects. Standard warranty periods are just one year for most competitors.
Teeter Fitness has excellent customer service and support available by phone and email. Their team is based in the USA and can help with any questions or issues before or after purchase.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Accessories
A few optional accessories are available to enhance your FreeStep LT3:
- Floor Mat – Cushions and protects the floor surface underneath the trainer.
- Adjustable Tablet Holder – Holds your tablet or smartphone at eye level for distraction-free viewing of videos/apps whilst working out. Attaches to the console.
- Dumbbell Set – Light dumbbells for upper body toning exercises off the machine to complement your training.
- Heart Rate Monitor – Wireless chest strap monitor for tracking heart rate during cardio workouts if the LT3 grip sensors aren’t accurate enough for you.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Review Verdict – Worth Buying?
In summary, the Teeter FreeStep LT3 offers excellent value for money as a mid-priced recumbent elliptical trainer for full-body home workouts.
It’s sturdily built with quality components to Teeter’s renowned standards, yet affordable under $1000.
The combination of smooth magnetic resistance, adjustable incline, cushioned pedals and comfortable seat makes cycling fluid and low impact. Your joints will thank you!
Adding elliptical-style moving handles sets it apart from basic recumbent bikes by activating the upper body muscles as you pedal. This allows for more dynamic, calorie-burning workouts.
Unlike cheaper friction braked trainers, it’s also super quiet thanks to magnetic resistance technology.
Considering the features and build quality, we think the Teeter FreeStep LT3 is undoubtedly one of the best recumbent cross trainers for low-impact home use. It’s a smart buy if you’re looking for an affordable way to improve fitness and stay active.
Current Teeter FreeStep LT3 Price
The MSRP for the Teeter FreeStep LT3 is $999, but Teeter often run promotions with $100 or more off.
FAQs
Q: Does the Teeter LT3 fold away?
A: No, the Teeter FreeStep LT3 doesn’t fold or break down smaller for storage. It’s fairly compact for a trainer and easy to move on the built-in wheels, but you’ll need a permanent space for it.
Q: What size is the LT3 when assembled?
A: The FreeStep LT3 footprint measures approx 55″ x 38″ x 53″ (L x W x H). However, you’ll want a larger area around it free of clutter for easy mounting and dismounting.
Q: What is the maximum user weight for the Teeter LT3?
A: Teeter states a 300 lb weight capacity on the FreeStep LT3. Heavier users beyond this limit risk compromising the frame stability and bearing smoothness.
Q: Does the Teeter FreeStep LT3 need to be plugged into power?
A: No, the magnetic resistance operates mechanically without electronics so the LT3 does not require a power source to function. No outlets needed!
Q: Can the LT3 be used outdoors?
A: Teeter recommends the FreeStep LT3 is only used indoors on a level floor. The build quality isn’t made for outdoor weather conditions or uneven surfaces.
The Best Teeter FreeStep LT3 Alternatives
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 is one of few quality recumbent cross trainer options at an affordable price point. Here are some alternatives to consider:
XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 – This very similar recumbent elliptical crossover machine is priced competitively with the LT3. It is also smooth and quiet, but the LCD console placement is better for viewing workout metrics. Handles are fixed position, though.
Sole E25 Elliptical – Slightly more expensive but a best-selling elliptical with power incline and 20 levels of resistance. Higher impact than a recumbent. Takes up more space.
Teeter FreeStep LT1 – The predecessor to the LT3 remains a top-quality recumbent cross trainer for less money. Just lacks some of the upgrades like a 2-year warranty and improved seat. It’s still highly rated.
Our #1 Recommendation
Out of all the options, we feel the Teeter FreeStep LT3 represents the best value recumbent elliptical cross trainer for full body home workouts at the time of writing.
It strikes the right balance of affordability, low-impact exercise, smooth magnetic resistance, positive customer reviews and Teeter’s proven quality.
The FreeStep LT3 fills the gap nicely between basic recumbent bikes and far more expensive commercial-grade kit. It ticks all the boxes for gently conditioning the upper and lower body in your home gym.
