Life Fitness X3-5 Elliptical Trainer Review
We tested and used the Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer over a period of 3 weeks. We also interviewed Life Fitness X3-5 owners as well as several people who had used the elliptical at the gym or fitness center. The X3-5 is an evolution of the old X3-0 model and has many premium features. However, at an MSRP of approximately $2900.00, this is beyond the budget of the average home fitness equipment buyer. We found that the main feature of the Life Fitness elliptical trainers is that the rear flywheel, which contains the Life Fitness “Link6” drive system, rides very smoothly. The 19-inch stride of the Life Fitness X3-5 Elliptical Trainer...

Life Fitness X3-5 Elliptical Trainer Review
We tested and used the Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer over a period of 3 weeks. We also interviewed Life Fitness X3-5 owners as well as several people who had used the elliptical at the gym or fitness center. The X3-5 is an evolution of the old X3-0 model and has many premium features. However, at an MSRP of approximately $2900.00, this is beyond the budget of the average home fitness equipment buyer. We found that the main feature of the Life Fitness elliptical trainers is that the rear flywheel, which contains the Life Fitness “Link6” drive system, rides very smoothly.
The 19-inch stride of the Life Fitness X3-5 elliptical trainer fits most people. Our tallest tester is a power lifter at 6'2" and 285 lbs. He found the trainer to be relatively stable. Pedal placement is good, allowing for comfortable foot placement this model is difficult to move.
There are many quality features on the Life Fitness X3-5 that we like, including the wireless heart rate-controlled training system that allows you to set a specific workout intensity. Basically, your heart's response to exercise controls the levels of resistance you experience during exercise. Basically, it is a plug-and-play training program tailored to your body.
The Life Fitness X3-5 Elliptical Trainer Console includes My Personal Trainer software, allowing you to focus on lower body training or total body training. We heard several comments about these features, with the most common being that it worked well if you took the time to figure out the system. Most people used one of the 12 standard training programs to achieve the desired training intensity. We rated the upper body workout and handlebars on this elliptical trainer as average.
Most of the Life Fitness X3-5 owners we surveyed purchased their elliptical trainers online. The units were delivered and installed by the owners with few problems. Damaged or non-functioning consoles seem to be the biggest complaint we've heard. Customer service was rated fair in resolving setup and warranty issues. The Life Fitness Cross Train Warranty includes a lifetime frame, 2 years on electrical and mechanical parts, and 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, but it is probably too expensive for most home applications. It has many features that will satisfy the most dedicated cardio fitness buff. Due to the relatively high cost of an elliptical trainer at home, we recommend that you take time to test fitness equipment at least once before purchasing it. Find a retailer, fitness center or local Y that has Life Fitness X3-5 and get an intense workout. We also recommend that you survey X3-5 users at these fitness centers. Only then will you know for sure that the Life Fitness X3-5 meets your fitness needs.