NordicTrack FreeStride Trainer FS10i Review

Overview: The FS10i is one of the latest elliptical trainers to be released by NordicTrack, joining the FS14i in the company’s very popular FreeStride Trainer Series. These are the best selling machines that they offer, due to the fact that they allow complete freedom as far as stride length and offer a near zero impact experience.

They also have a very compact design, which makes them ideal for home use. With incline tehnology plus tons of functionality, the FS10i is sure to be a big hit.

Let’s start with the best features and move on to our in-depth review.

Huge Auto Adjustable Stride

Unlike most elliptical trainers, where there is a fixed stride length of 18-20″, the FS10i extends up to 32″, giving you much more freedom to stretch out. You can do short strides to mimic a stepping motion or longer strides to make it more like you are running.

Incline Capability

Incline capability is still hard to find these days. The FS10i gives you up to 10% incline, which lets you target additional leg muscles that you can’t hit on a level plane as well as ramp up your cardio training.

(Note that the up-level FS14i gives you decline training as well.)

iFit Unlimited Workouts

The new FS10i comes equipped with iFit, an immersive workout experience that gives you access to endless on-demand and live workouts with trainers all over the world, Google map locations, workout tracking and sharing, nutrition and sleep recommendations, and so much more.

iFit does require a membership, but as of this writing NordicTrack is offering 30 days free with purchase. It’s definitely a great motivating tool and worth continuing once the trial period is up.

Touch Screen Controls

Another unique feature about NordicTrack ellipticals is the touch screens found on many of their models. Although not a necessity, it does make the experience more like a health club, as everything unfolds right in front of you.

The FS10i FreeStride Trainer comes with a 10″ interactive HD touch screen where you can see all of your stats, choose map locations, workout with the personal trainer of your choice and so much more. It definitely helps you enjoy your workout experience.

Other Great Features

On top of all of this you get Bluetooth audio capability, 20 lb. flywheel, 24 resistance levels, one touch controls, solid steel construction, workout fan, oversized cushioned pedals, transport wheels and water bottle holder.

Everything you need for a great workout is included, which is what makes the FS10i a great choice.

NordicTrack FS10i Elliptical Test Drive

The FS10i is not much different than the previous FS9i, which we’ve reviewed several times over the years. It shares the same 10″ touch screen, 32″ stride and is basically the same size.

Still, we tried it out to see if the workout experience was any different. For starters, it does feel a little more sturdy than the FS9i. Perhaps they upgraded the construction as well, which is always a good thing.

The workouts are great with iFit now, as they are always adding new experiences to the program. You can literally choose any location in the world and any trainer, and even do workouts off the elliptical like yoga and stretching.You can think of iFit like a whole wellness program rather than just a bunch of exercises, as it offers so much more.

Again you can try iFit for free for a month (they used to offer a free year but I guess that’s changed) to see if you like it. I’m pretty sure you will.

The FS10i is compact ay only about 59″ long. If you compare that to the typical elliptical at 70″+ it’s a real space saver. There are plenty of resistance levels to choose from. The incline and decline are great, as you can hit those leg muscles you don’t always hit. Between the resistance and the incline/decline, you really get the heart rate going.

As I mentioned, the stride length is great. I like to stretch out to the 32″ max, and the way the suspension is set up it’s like you are floating on air. So Free Stride is definitely an appropriate name for this elliptical.

So just like with the FS14i you get a great, low-impact workout with tons of comfort features and extras to keep you motivated to reach your fitness goals.

NordicTrack FS10i Review – Conclusion

If you’re looking for a solid elliptical trainer for your home that won’t take up a lot of room and is super easy on the knees and joints, definitely check out this new model today. It has everything you need for a great workout…tons of programs, tracking and sharing, touch screen, incline, decline, Bluetooth, iFit and so much more.

The FS10i is on the pricy side, so if your budget is not as open then definitely take a look at the other NordicTrack ellipticals. And if you want a larger touch screen as well as decline training, look at the FS14i as well.

You can’t go wrong with any of the NordicTrack ellipticals. They are all well made with tons of features, capabilities and extras. It’s just a matter of choosing the one that’s right for you.