If you’re like me, you reach a certain age and start feeling that the weight just gets easier to gain, and harder to lose.
I knew I had to change.
I began my search for a versatile elliptical trainer that I could use at home and fight off those unwanted pounds the day after I was diagnosed with Diabetes.
After weeks of diligent research, I selected the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer, the latest in high quality elliptical products from Lifespan fitness.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING
Before taking the plunge and buying this trainer, determine your wants and needs first.
Certain questions should cross your mind before making a purchase of this magnitude.
Among them are:
- Are you looking for a strong and durable machine that will be able to stand up to a high intensity workout? Or do you need a machine that is more casual that might not have all the bells and whistles but still will get the job done?
- Are you just starting out in your exercise routine or are you an experienced athlete who will be training seven days a week?
These are important questions that the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer will certainly answer.
It provides a high-level cardiovascular experience and is built from very high-quality components that are commercial grade in every way.
It is durable, sturdy, sleek and professional and can easily sit in any fitness center around the world without issue.
For those who are seeking a high-level fitness experience, the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer is definitely the machine for you.
Introducing the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer
The is a high-quality product that is well constructed from the finest materials in the exercise industry.
It belongs at the center of any gym you would find around the world.
It is both sleek and contains commercial grade, high-quality components such as double rollers that are set up on twin rails which are extremely sturdy.
It also features handlebars that are oversized and rounded.
The benefit here is that the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer accommodates different user heights, making it easy to adjust and find just the right fit without having to compromise on comfort.
The LifeSpan E5i is a self-generated power source, so you will not have a cord cluttering your floor and you will not need to place the machine next to a power source.
This cuts down on your electric bill and makes the trainer eco-friendly.
Stylistically, it has a huge flywheel, a highly user-friendly intuitive console and components that are high-quality, including its bearings, frame, and its electronic and drive systems that are covered by an all-encompassing commercial warranty.
In comparison to its predecessors, the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer runs $1,999 as of this writing, whereas the Lifespan E3i retails at $1,299 and the Lifespan E2i retails at $999.
The stride (20 inches) and resistance (20 levels) remain the same, but the console size (7.5 inches), maximum weight (375 pounds), and flywheel (34 pounds) are the same in the Lifespan E3i and Lifespan E5i, but differ slightly from the Lifespan E2i.
Pros
- High-quality, commercial grade
- Runs entirely off self-generated power
- Easy to use, intuitive console
- Supports a wide range of users and weights
Cons
- Price
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
The LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer has a number of features that make it worth the investment.
Cordless Power
Right off the bat, the fact that it runs on self-generated power is a huge bonus.
As for the self generated power, the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer is unlike any other elliptical trainer available on today’s market.
That is because this elliptical trainer is completely run by the power generated by the user.
This keeps your electric bill down and, because it has no cord, can be placed anywhere in the home, apartment or gym. It is versatile, easy to set up and easy to transport.
Easy to Use
Second, the LifeSpan E5i can be set up very easily and can be put to immediate use.
In terms of user–friendliness, the console is 7.5 inches and easy to read.
It is also very easy to navigate and boasts a clear LED display that shows the user all of the basic workout specifications one would expect, such as heart rate, resistance level, calories, distance and time.
This machine also provides the user with a media shelf for their cell phone, tablet or other electronic device.
It also features 21 interactive programs with accessible toggle control buttons so the user can increase or decrease speed and resistance without having to pause their workout.
You can begin your workout simply with the push of a button – unlike other machines, there is no fumbling around with a program set up or a “learning curve” where the user must get used to a novel interface.
To incline or decline the trainer or to add resistance, the toggle control buttons located on the handlebars are a unique and incredible feature since you do not need to stop your workout in order to make these adjustments on the console itself.
Given the fact that this trainer comes with twenty different levels of resistance, this feature certainly comes in very handy.
Comprehensive Exercise Programs
And another feature that most trainers are lacking but which this trainer boasts is the fact that the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer exercise programs are designed by exercise physiologists.
These programs enable the user to achieve both their training and health goals, maximizing motivation at the same time.
This is a subtle touch but it is a wrinkle that many competitors overlook, while LifeSpan has taken the time to consider the specific needs of its customers.
All of the exercise programs offered on this trainer are interactive and include specific programs for healthy living, sports training, heart rate training and weight loss.
Enhanced User Experience
Another upgrade from previous generations are the handlebars of the Lifespan E5i (which are set in multi-positions), as well as transport wheels which make the machine so much easier to move around and transport.
The speaker system and audio jack are also nice touches since they enhance the entire experience.
As for the warranty, overall it covers the entire trainer. The frame has a lifetime warranty, the parts have a five year warranty and there is a two year warranty on labor.
Rounding out the numerous features and benefits of this ultra-modern machine are the fact that it has optional Bluetooth tracking, a beautiful blue backlit display, multi-grip handlebars and heart rate monitors that are both wireless and monitored by grip.
Almost everything has been considered and this unit is by far one of the most versatile and practical elliptical fitness trainers on the market today.
Our Verdict
In summary, the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer is a low-maintenance trainer that supports a wide range of user heights and weights.
The double rollers on the twin rails is a feature that is not offered in many elliptical trainers on today’s market.
The LifeSpan E5i is eco-friendly since it runs completely upon self-generated power.
Setting up the machine is basically effortless and intuitive.
It provides a wide variety of interactive programs and is geared toward both the high-intensity, experienced workout warrior and those who are just beginning on their fitness journey.
Alternatives to the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer
The marketplace for Elliptical trainers is fierce.
With that in mind, comparing and contrasting the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer with other models in its genre is wise before arriving at a decision.
Here are three alternatives to consider:
Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
The Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is more affordably priced than the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer, selling at the high end.
However, it has an 18 inch stride compared to the 20 inch stride of the LifeSpan E5i.
This unit has the same number of workouts available (21), but its weight capacity is about 100 pounds less.
Its warranty is for one year and is limited whereas the Lifespan model’s warranty is a lifetime warranty.
Finally, this machine is not as durable as the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer and is more fit for a home gym than anything else.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Poor assembly instructions
- Very little customer support
MaxKare Magnetic Elliptical Machine Elliptical Trainer
Very reasonably priced, the MaxKare Magnetic Elliptical Machine Elliptical Trainer features a front end flywheel that is smaller than the one on the LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer.
This trainer also supports about 110 pounds less than the LifeSpan model.
It also has built-in exercise programs and is easy to transport. The MaxKare Magnetic Elliptical Machine Elliptical Trainer is better suited for home use.
Pros
- Good stride length
- Budget friendly
Cons
- Noisy
- Directions are hard to read and confusing
- Water bottle holder not very sturdy
EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine Trainer
The EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine Trainer is compact. It is ideal for smaller rooms and apartments.
It is more for low-intensity workouts. It is quiet and mobile and offers pulse rate monitoring.
Pros
- Takes up very little space
- Easy to follow instructions
Cons
- Squeaks
- No backlight on monitor
Final Thoughts
The LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer provides an option to users that is durable and built to last.
It is able to stand up to a much heavier work out than prior generations and is a welcome addition to the Lifespan lineup.
Its wide variety of workouts, different resistance levels, more than ample 20 inch stride, all-inclusive warranty and competitive price easily place it at the head of the class.
The LifeSpan E5i Commercial Elliptical Trainer offers the best of both worlds to users – in one sense it is basic, easy to use, does not require electricity and is a trainer that even the novice can pick up quickly.
On the other hand, high-intensity athletes can make use of this durable and well-built machine with confidence.
It is a highly respectable machine and a wonderful choice if ease of use is your priority.
Simultaneously, this trainer stands tall among the top elliptical trainers around the world.
Its construction, durability, sleek design and build place it at the top of the heap, so use it with confidence and you will never be disappointed.
