All my life, I have suffered from physical pain.
With age, my chronic pain symptoms only worsened, barring me from some of my favorite hobbies.
Activities like rugby, backpacking, and even kayaking became all but feasible.
Over time, I realized that I needed a way to keep sane and get moving. A little research eventually led me to invest in a recumbent cross-trainer.
I’m happy to state that I haven’t looked back since.
Today, I will be reviewing the Teeter FreeStep LT1 recumbent cross-trainer.
Does it stand the test of time? Most importantly, does it provide a low-impact workout that people of all ages and abilities can engage in?
Let’s jump in!
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Recumbent Cross Trainer
By now, some of you are likely questioning: What is a recumbent cross trainer?
Unlike standard reclined training equipment, a recumbent cross trainer provides a fully seated, total-body workout.
Combining natural low-impact motion with the health benefit of cardio, a cross-trainer provides the heart-pumping workout of an elliptical along with the stability of a recumbent bike.
The main difference is that a cross-trainer allows for a wider range of motion, engaging many muscle groups throughout the entire body.
A cross trainer requires that your upper and lower body work in tandem to move properly.
These machines primarily target the quadriceps, hamstrings, legs, glutes, abs, and obliques through coordinated motion.
Recumbent cross trainers are especially recommended for those undergoing physical rehabilitation or those suffering from chronic pain.
The workout doesn’t put excess strain on sensitive areas of the body, while still strengthening muscle groups surrounding the knees, ankles, lower and upper back.
In other words, a recumbent cross trainer is the true “zero impact” cardio workout that you’ve been looking for.
Moreover, it provides all the calorie-burning benefits of traditional treadmills, steppers, and ellipticals.
Essential Questions to Ask
Before you go out and buy a recumbent cross trainer, consider these key questions:
- Would I prefer an exercise that puts less strain on pre-existing injuries or physical impairments?
- Am I looking for a full-body exercise routine, or would I prefer to target key muscle groups?
- Do I have the space to accommodate new exercise gear in my home?
- Will I be willing to commit myself to a new exercise regimen?
- How much am I willing to spend on new exercise gear?
As always, you should make sure to consider your unique goals and how a cross-trainer could help you achieve them.
It may require a serious commitment to see the results you want.
You may want to consult with your primary physician first before investing in any new equipment.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer
Reader, meet the Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent cross-trainer.
Designed to provide the most low-impact workout possible, the Teeter FreeStep LT1 features a naturally reclined and ergonomic seat position that reduces body fatigue while kicking fat to the curb.
Utilizing a unique striding motion, the Teeter FreeStep LT1 works with your body and not against it.
A smooth, linear path prevents your knees from traveling over your toes while simultaneously stabilizing the back and hips.
Unlike most “low impact” equipment, the Teeter FreeStep LT1 still offers a great calorie-burning and health-improving workout.
The dual power, push-pull based motion helps to define all major muscle groups throughout the body.
With a light footprint, the stepping motions mimics a standard leg press that targets the quads, hamstring, and glutes, while an adjustable handle isolates your arm muscles and chest.
Users can modify their workout or add intensity as their strength grows.
Pros
- Utilizes variable magnetic resistance to adjust workout intensity with a simple dial
- Digital tracking monitors all the most important workout metrics
- Adjustable seat position fits your height for most comfortable fit
Cons
- Resistance dial has no indicator for the current setting
- Some users complain about lack of included replacement parts
- Seat cannot be moved horizontally in relation to the pedals
Features and Benefits of the Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer
Below, I’ve made a shortlist of the Teeter FreeStep LT1’s most exciting features and benefits. Each feature is something that serious athletes will need to keep in mind.
Dual-Power Motion System
Internally, the Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer utilizes a push-pull, dual-power motion system to help build your major muscle groups.
The construction helps to mimic the motion of a leg press, targeting both your upper and lower body in one fluid motion.
Users can grip onto the adjustable hand bars to include their biceps and triceps in the action.
Small Footprint
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is more compact than most other recumbent cross trainers on the market.
At just 52.5″ x 38″, the Teeter FreeStep LT1 is small enough to store and transport easily.
Additionally, the machine features wheels for even easier storage. Some users prefer to stow it in the corner of the living room, while others push it into extra closet space.
Quiet Operation
Users love, love, love that the Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is whisper-quiet.
The smooth internal components are structured around a magnetic resistance system, eliminating the sound of clunky metal grinding against each other.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 is suitable for use in shared workspaces, nurseries, bedrooms, and other noise-conscious environments.
Want to squeeze in a 5 am workout before heading to work? That’s no problem with the Teeter FreeStep LT1 – you won’t wake anyone up.
Provides Pain-Free Training
Ultimately, the best benefit of the Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is that it puts virtually no strain on most pre-existing physical impairments.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 takes the burden off your back, joints, knees, and ankles, making it much more comfortable than standard ellipticals, treadmills, and steppers.
Moreover, the user sides reclined in an ergonomically suitable position for the duration of the workout.
This also makes the Teeter FreeStep LT1 great for athletes that want to engage in light training during periods of muscle recovery.
A unique stride motion follows a pre-determined path that keeps your toes in front of your knees at all times while eliminating movement from the back and hips.
Calorie burning no longer has to come at the cost of physical pain and over-worked stabilizer muscles.
What Do Buyers Think?
I spent a good chunk of time looking over verified customer reviews of the Teeter FreeStep LT1 recumbent cross trainer online.
Review #1
“My husband and I had knee replacements and this cross trainer works very well to strengthen our muscles and keep the knees stretched and flexible. The machine is very well built and well worth the cost.”
Review #2
“One heck of a machine. Made to last forever. Very sturdy, comfortable, smooth, and quiet. It’s an exercise machine one can use for years to come. It arrived in heavy-duty packaging and all the assembly parts were well protected.”
Review #3
“Excellent product for the price and it’s easy to assemble. A small detail I like very much is that the front support bracket makes a secure rest for laptops and tablets. You can stream some music, TV, or crank a podcast while keeping the calories away.”
Overall, it seems that buyers are very pleased with the purchase.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 is considered more than worth the cost, providing a low-impact workout to riders suffering from arthritis, previous injuries, and even multiple sclerosis.
Popular Alternatives to the Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer
In case you’re not convinced, I’ve drawn up a list of some of the Teeter FreeStep LT1’s most popular competitor products.
Each product was selected for its sturdy construction, extra features, and low price point.
MaxKare Recumbent Exercise Bike
Equipped with eight levels of magnetic resistance, the MaxKare Recumbent Exercise Bike provides a quiet, low-impact workout that won’t disturb your family.
Intensity can be adjusted to almost any degree while supporting riders up to 300 pounds.
Users appreciate the padded, ergonomic seat that can be adjusted with a lever. The high backrest is furnished with a dense sponge, achieving optimal comfort for riders of all ages.
Moreover, the handles are padded with sweat-resistant vinyl foam that can survive high-intensity workouts.
An LCD monitor displays metrics related to time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate.
Once you’re done with your workout, simply move the MaxKare Recumbent Exercise Bike using its easy transportation wheels.
Pros
- High backrest and wide seat provide comfort fit
- Can accommodate users up to 300 pounds
- Includes smart device holder and bright LCD display
Cons
- Some state assembly is somewhat difficult
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike (ME-709)
Looking for something a little more wallet-friendly?
The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike (ME-709) features heavy-duty construction and steel-tubing design at more than half the price of competitors.
Featuring eight resistance levels, the bike accommodates users at any point in their fitness journey.
You can simulate the difficulty of different terrains according to your workout.
Users appreciate the comfortable, densely padded seat that’s equipped with an ergonomic “saddle”.
It features contoured foam-coated handles that help your body attain the optimal position for exercising.
The LCD screen acts as an odometer, displaying time, speed, distance, and calories burned in extra-large font size. This is especially helpful for vision-impaired users.
So, how does it compare to the Teeter FreeStep LT1? While the Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike (ME-709) provides a great workout, it’s not quite as extensible as the Teeter FreeStep LT1.
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 features more ability to change resistance levels and is a more compact device.
Pros
- Bright backlit LCD display is easy to read
- Very good budget find
- Counterbalanced pedals give users more control over their footstep
Cons
- May be somewhat too large for riders under 5’1″
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708
With a 350-pound weight capacity, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708 is sturdy enough to serve most riders.
The machine is fitted with eight levels of magnetic-based resistance, accommodating the user at all stages during their fitness journey.
An over-sized seat and high back support the hips and lower back, ensuring that you’re in the proper position at all times.
Moreover, the pedals are non-slip and adjustable for users to ride stably for the entire foot stroke.
The seat is adjustable, too. Riders between 5’1″ and 6’2″ find the machine very comfortable to use.
On top of that, the bright LCD screen is positioned closer to your body, displaying information related to your heart rate, calories burned, distance traversed, and more.
At a mid-range price point, it’s hard to go wrong with the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike.
Pros
- Integrated pulse sensors read your heart rate at all times
- Pedals are extra broad, adjustable, and non-slip for best stability guarantee
- Built-in transportation wheels make the device convenient to move
Cons
- Some state the resistance levels aren’t micro-adjustable enough
Final Thoughts
If you want to achieve a great workout without all the strain, what are you waiting for?
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is built for athletes, newbies, and everyday people alike.
No matter your physical fitness, the Teeter FreeStep LT1 can help improve your cardiovascular and physical strength with regular use.
It features an ergonomically safe, compact design that’s suitable for high-intensity use.
