Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider Review
Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider
$1599Pros
- Adaptable Stride of up to 32 Inches For More Effective Crosstraining
- Ultra Low Impact
- More Compact Than Standard Ellipticals
- Center Drive Design Maximizes Comfort
- Most Affordable Freestrider Elliptical
- Add New Workouts with iFit Coach
Cons
- Dual Color Console
- No Incline like the FS7i or FS9i models
Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider Elliptical Review – Highlights:
The Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider is the most affordable Freestride trainer in the series – making it very popular. You can still get the benefits of a Freestride trainer at a price that won’t break the bank.
And what are the benefits of a Freestrider elliptical?
Basically it’s a completely new type of elliptical where you can choose your own stride.
Unlike a traditional elliptical trainer, you are not locked into a set stride length on this machine – the stride is adaptable to you (up to 32 inches).
So you can choose the most comfortable stride for you – or choose multiple strides, depending on which lower body muscles you want to work.
You can do short, up-and-down strides like a stair climber, longer jogging strides like an elliptical or even longer hurdling type strides like a treadmill. It’s kind of like having 3-machines-in-1.
It’s also ideal for multiple-user families since everyone can find a stride that feels most comfortable for them.
Center Drive Design
You may also notice that the FS5i Freestrider is a center-drive elliptical design. This means that instead of one large flywheel in front or in back of the footpedals, there are 2 smaller flywheels on either side.
This has a few benefits. First of all, the footpedals tend to be placed closer together on a center drive design – which means less strain on your hips, especially during longer workouts.
Also, this places you more upright on the machine with less leaning on the handrails, which again can feel more comfortable and natural.
Low Impact Ride
The Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider is an ultra-low-impact machine – in fact it’s almost zero impact since it rides on belts rather than traditional rails and wheels.
This makes it a great option if you have bad knees or are prone to shin splints or other injuries.
Save Space in Your Home
Because you don’t have the traditional wheels-and-track design out behind your footpedals, this frees up space and makes the FS5i trainer a lot more compact than traditional elliptical trainers.
It has a footprint of 60.2″ L x 28.5″ W which is smaller than most standard elliptical trainers. While it’s not the most compact elliptical on the market, it’s still smaller than most trainers.
Travel the World with iFit Coach
The Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider comes iFit Coach compatible. iFit Coach takes your elliptical online where you can track workouts, download HD workout videos, run trails all over the world and more.
You can track your workouts over time, see how far you’ve come and set new goals. You can even track things like your caloric intake, everyday activity and sleep patterns.
You can also watch new workout videos where personal trainers take you all over the world – from Paris to the Swiss Alps. They coach you through your workout as you watch real landmarks pass you by in the tablet screen.
Note that because the Nordictrack FS5i does not have a full-color console like the other Freestrider models, you will have to connect to iFit through your tablet and watch the iFit scenery that way.

More Benefits of the Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider:
There’s an adjustable bracket above the console – so you can attach your tablet and surf the net, watch Netflix videos or connect to iFit coach.
And for more entertainment options you can also connect your phone to the music port and listen to your favorite tunes through the built-in speakers.
There’s also a handy little shelf behind the console that can hold your keys, remote etc.
Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider – Other Things To Know:
While the console is backlit and easy to ready, it’s only dual color and not touch-screen ready like the FS7i and FS9i models.
Also be aware that there is no incline or decline options on this trainer – unlike the FS7i or FS9i models.
Where to Buy and Save:
If you want an upgrade on the traditional elliptical that lets you set your own pace and stride, the FS5i is a fantastic machine.
You’ll never “adapt” to one motion and can constantly challenge your body (and burn more calories). You can buy Nordictrack FS5i Freestrider directly from the Manufacturer and get Free Shipping here.
Click Here For A Special Offer on the Freestrider FS5i
Related: Nordictrack Freestrider FS7i Review – How Does It Rate?
Bowflex Max vs Nordictrack Freestrider Comparison – Which is Best For You?