NordicTrack FreeStrider 35 Si Review

Machine: NordicTrack FreeStrider 35 Si Elliptical

Overview: The NordicTrack FreeStrider 35 Si is among NordicTrack’s higher end elliptical machines with a radically advanced free variable stride, that’s not only the one of the longest in the market, but lets your chose your stride naturally without making adjustments. Making use of the long 35” stride length works the hamstrings, glutes and increases flexibility, as where shorter strides build muscle in the calves and medium strides focus on quads. The FreeStrider 35 Si includes an iFit Live module, which is sold separately with most machines, as well as 12 months free access to iFit.com. IFit Live really opens up the potential for wide-ranging workouts with custom workouts from professional trainers with voice coaching as well as Google Maps trails that automatically adjust your incline according to the terrain. The inclusion of iFit.com gives you a completes the full health and fitness experience with tools like a nutrition and activity tracker, motivating text messages and emails and workout videos. The NordicTrack FreeStrider 35 Si also includes premium technology like a hi-res Grafixx display, a built-in sound system with a music port for an iPod or MP3 player, and a stride ladder display that lets you view your stride in real time and see exactly where you need to step up your workout. Additional features like the CoolAire fan and cushioned pedals add comfort to your workout so you can stay fresh longer and workout harder.

Features

Price – $1,999
Stride Length – 35″
Challenging Programs – Unlimited through included 12months of iFit Live
Resistance Levels – 12
Upper Body – Yes
Heart Rate Monitor – CardioGrip with Wireless Chest Pulse and 2 hand-grip sensors
Weight Capacity – 300lbs
Console Gadgets – iFit® Live Module Included With 12 Months Access to iFit.com, built-in sound system, Music Port for iPod, Grafixx Hi-Resolution Display, Stride Ladder display
Convenience/Extras – 1-Touch Resistance, CoolAire™ Workout Fan
Warranty – Lifetime frame, 1-Year Parts & Labor

Strengths:
The most impressive feature by far on the Nordic Track FreeStrider 35 Si is of course its impressive 35” stride length that allows for completely free motion. By switching up your stride on the fly you not only get a more interesting workout but you control what muscle groups you’re working. The extended stride works out your core muscles, rather than just your legs and it also gives the upper body workout more of an edge. Many NordicTrack elliptical trainers in this price range can connect to iFit Live, but the FreeStrider 35 Si includes an iFit Live module as well as 12 months of access to iFit.com. The wireless chest pulse heart rate monitor means that you don’t have to interrupt your workout to check your heart rate—an included feature that cheaper elliptical machines almost always lack. Also, as usual with NordicTrack machines, it includes great extras like built-in speakers, MP3 port and a hi-res display.
Weaknesses:
It’s hard to justify an extra $700 over the FreeStrider 35 S when the most noticeable difference is an included iFit Live module. Even though it’s meant to cool your core some customers report in their Nordic Track Freestrider review that they don’t like the cooling fan because it’s mounted very low and can’t be adjusted.
The Skinny:
The NordicTrack FreeStrider 35 Si elliptical is fairly similar to the 35 S, but with an included iFit Live module and 12 months access to iFit.com This particular trainer is among the top choices for fitness enthusiasts looking to workout harder, combining the high intensity of incline training with the low impact of an elliptical trainer. The 35” variable stride lets you work different leg muscles and iFit Live ensures that your workouts never get stale.