NordicTrack FreeMotion s5.8 Review
The FreeMotion s5.8 is the upgrade to the FreeMotion s5.6. There is only one real difference between the two and that is a 7" flat screen TV. So the question is do you want the convenience of a TV built into the console for an extra $300.
The advantage is the TV is directly in front of you and easy to view. Exercising in place can be monotonous, that is why having a distraction can help to pass the time. I personally listen to music, and in fact both the FreeMotion s5.8 and the s5.6 have built-in speakers and you can plug in a MP3 player.
Note: As of 3/8/10 the FreeMotion s5.8 was no longer available. Go to the NordicTrack Reviews for the latest models.
However, the distraction of watching your favorite show or video can make the time fly by, and in the process you are more likely to exercise for a longer period. And the longer you workout, the more results you will achieve.
Below is a recap of my review of the FreeMotion technology found on the s5.8.
FreeMotion is a hybrid of an elliptical trainer and a stair stepper. However, unlike those machines your stride is free and natural, giving you a range of motions that provide a number of benefits over an elliptical trainer. Therefore, you can change from a short to long stride without having to make adjustments or push buttons.
Strides up to 35" - Your typical elliptical trainer has a fixed stride, usually between 18"-20", consequently you are restricted to a limited motion. With the FreeMotion s5.6 you can reach and extend your motion up to 35", the longest stride on the market. With the free, variable stride you can target different muscles, thus allowing you to firm fat and shape your legs. For example.
Short Stride - Works Glutes and Calves
Mid Stride - Works Glutes and Quads
Long Stride - Works Hamstrings and Increases Flexibility
The extended range of motion loosens and stretches your lower joints. For example, at a 35" stride you are almost at twice the joint angle of a typical elliptical. Meaning joints like ankles, hips and knees are stretching to the limit, which is beneficial for athletic activities like tennis, skiing, golf, running, rock climbing, etc.. Furthermore, you'll feel the benefits of this extension/stretching in your lower back.
"Increase range of motion reduces your potential for injuries."
Intense Cardio Workout
I cannot attest to these results, since I was only on the FreeMotion s5.8 for a few minutes, but here is the logic on why you can get a more efficient workout in less time. With the longer stride and free motion, you are using more muscle fiber. You are working your lower muscles to their limit. Therefore, at just 2 mph and high resistance you get the same cardio benefits as if you are running, and unlike running you are significantly reducing the impact to your ankles, knees, hips and lower back. Makes sense!
Improved Upper Body Workout
Although elliptical trainers claim to give both a lower and upper body workout, the reality is the upper body usually gets minimal benefits. When you use an elliptical do you often find your upper body just going through the motions?
The NordicTrack FreeMotion s5.8 does a more effective job of working the core muscles - abs, obliques and back. With the extended free stride there is more of a push, pull motion. When the lower body is coming up, the upper body is going down - it is almost like doing crunches. I'm not promising you are going to get a 6-pack, but your abs are going to get a much better workout than they would on an elliptical.
The combination of a more efficient cardio burn and a workout that focuses on your core muscles means you are more likely to reduce your waist size in comparison to working out on an elliptical.
In addition to the benefit from the design, there are several features on the s5.8 worth mentioning.
- 8 Body-Zone Workouts that automatically adjust the resistance and stride to focus on your quads, glutes, calves or core training.
- iFit Technology - Workout programs that control the resistance and include audio coaching. Design by professional fitness trainers. (Additional charge for inserted program cards.)
- Speakers and input for MP3 player
- Heart rate sensors built into the strider handlebars. You don't have to hold stationary grips to get you heart rate.
- 8 Pre-set workout programs that focus on aerobic, weight-loss, endurance or performance goals.
- Wireless heart rate control
Our Review - FreeMotion s5.8
I was impressed with the FreeMotion machine when I was at the corporate headquarters, and the feedback I get is that this new cardio design is a big hit with customers.
I like the idea of optimizing my workout. I also like the free motion concept where I am not restricted to a fixed elliptical stride.
Would I get the FreeMotion s5.8 with the built in TV? Probably not, but that is my preference. I am not a big TV watcher. I prefer listening to music and getting lost in my thoughts. If I watched TV it would probably be the news, and that is depressing, not necessarily motivating.
Go to NordicTrack.com/reeMotion
to learn more!