Treadmills are stables in many home gyms. It provides a complete cardio workout to people of different fitness levels. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, it is important that you choose the right treadmill for your home.
There are so many brands of treadmills in the market, but this review will only focus on two models from the Life Fitness treadmills–the T3 and T5. Existing reviews on this treadmill indicate that the former is the simpler and most basic model, but does this mean that the latter performs better?
This review will provide you with unbiased information about the two exercise machines so that you can decide which one gives you the bang for your bucks. And so, without further ado, read on.
Contents
Life Fitness Treadmill T3
Dubbed as an entry-level treadmill but it is far superior to other brands’ models. It has a 350-pound maximum user capacity thus it can support a fairly large user on its 60-inch track. It has a 15% incline that can be adjusted at 0.5% increments thus you have the freedom to customize the difficulty of your workout.
The simplicity of this treadmill makes it a very straightforward machine. In fact, users are satisfied with this equipment without the need to upgrade to a higher model such as the T5 or the F1 Smart. But even if it is a simple treadmill, it does come with convenience.
This exercise machine comes with two display consoles–the “Go” and “Track”. The former comes with 13 pre-programmed workouts so that you can customize your workout routines while the latter allows you to synch the treadmill with your favorite fitness apps.
Features
- The incline of up to 15% that can be adjusted to 0.5% increment
- The motor system is driven by 3 horsepower
- Speed capacity is between 0.5 mph and 12 mph
- Two detachable cup holders
- Running area of 60” x 20”
- Can accommodate maximum user weight of 350 pounds
- Comes with 13 built-in exercise programs
- Belt made from Flex Deck shock absorption system
- Heart rate monitor found on handle grips
- Comes with 2 display consoles called “Go” and “Track”
- Comes with accessory trays and speakers for a convenient workout
- Size at 79.5” x 34.5” x 57.5”
- Lifetime warranty for the tray, 10 years for motor, 5 years for parts, and 1 year for labor
Pros
- The track comes with great cushioning thanks to the patented Flex Deck cushioning system that reduces the impact on the foot and joints by as much as 30% compared with regular treadmills.
- The incline can be adjusted in 0.5% increments to help fitness enthusiasts achieve their workout goals.
- Easily simulate different racks such as running uphill to increase your metabolic rate.
- Wireless heart monitors included and can communicate with the console through telemetry.
- Silent motor with above average rollers for a smooth workout.
- Designed to be energy efficient as it automatically reduces the power it draws when idle.
- Motors adjust to the weight of the user.
- Two consoles offer comprehensive workout options.
- Powered by the quiet MagnaDrive motors for a smooth and less distracting workout.
- Longer warranty periods indicate that the manufacturer is confident about the quality of their product.
Cons
- It is larger than most treadmills thus it might not fit in areas with limited space.
- It cannot be folded, unlike the other model F3.
- It comes with a 32-page manual that makes it difficult to assemble by most fitness enthusiasts.
Performance
The Life Fitness T3 treadmill is one of the most straightforward treadmills there is. Although simple, it can still help you achieve your fitness goals just like other best treadmills.
What we like about this equipment are its two console options. The Go console will satisfy most of its users but if you are an advanced fitness enthusiast, you can benefit from the workout programs that are included in this machine for variety. It is also compatible with many workout apps to ensure that you are training effectively. These are features that you will never find in most basic and conventional treadmills out in the market.
Also Read:
| Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|
 | Life Fitness T3 Treadmill with Go Console | Check Price |
Life Fitness Treadmill T5
Designed to be a better version of the T3, the T5 has a higher weight capacity of 400 pounds thus it is considered one of the most robust treadmills in this particular treadmill series.
It comes with a wider track of 60’ x 22” with excellent cushioning thanks to the Flex-Deck shock absorbing system that can reduce the impact on joints by as much as 30%. It also comes with a power incline for added variety of workouts such that you can simulate running up on a hill thereby increasing your metabolism.
Just like the T3, it comes with the intuitive Go and Track consoles that can use heart rate control. The Go console comes with built-in exercise programs for better and varied workout performance. The Track console, on the other hand, allows you to integrate the equipment into mobile devices.
Features
- Incline between 0 to 15% with increment adjustment at 0.5%.
- The motor system is 3 horsepower, but it can reach a maximum capacity to 6 horse power
- The speed range is between 0.5mph and 12mph.
- Comes with two cup holders
- Running area is 60” x 22” whereas the dimension of the entire treadmill is at 79.5” x 32” x 61”.
- It can accommodate 400 pounds of user weight.
- Running belt made with patented Flex Deck shock absorption system
- Size is 79.5” x 32” x 61”
- Heart rate monitor on handle grips with wireless chest straps for telemetry
- The accessory tray where gadgets can be docked while exercising
- Comes with speakers to allow users to listen to music during a workout
- Warranty of frame and deck are lifetime while the motor, parts, and labor have warranties for 10 years, 7 years, and 1 year; respectively
Pros
- The running track is made with the patented Flex Deck cushioning system that can help reduce the impact on both joints and foot by 30% for a comfortable workout.
- It comes with a maximum of 15% incline that can be adjusted at 0.5% increments to provide fitness enthusiasts with different running scenarios.
- Wireless heart monitors on handlebar grips can communicate with the console via telemetry.
- Silent motor with smooth rollers for a comfortable and less strained workout.
- High user weight capacity at 400 pounds and motors can adjust to the weight of the user.
- Powered by the quiet MagnaDrive motors for a smooth and less distracting workout.
- The smart motor does not consume too much energy when the treadmill is idle.
- Longer warranty periods indicate that the manufacturer is confident about the quality of their product.
- Comes with two consoles – the Go and Track – that are compatible with many devices and apps
- Extra wide and longer track for more freedom during a workout
- Comes with two or four user profiles depending on the console used
Cons
- Assembly is a bit complicated and the professional setup of the equipment requires payment of at least $150.
- It cannot be folded when not in use.
Performance
The Life Fitness T5 is an upgraded version of the T3 in two ways such that it comes with an extra track and weight capacity. The other important features include the high-powered yet silent motor, comfortable patented cushioning system, adjustable incline, and two consoles.
However, these features are also found in the T3. But with the existing cushioning system and the wider track, the T5 offers more freedom during a workout. In fact, running on this treadmill is 30% gentler to the joints compared to running on an actual road.
The adjustable incline can also give users the option to make their workout more challenging. By adjusting the incline, you can simulate running uphill and this will allow you to improve your cardio workout, so you can burn more calories and train your leg muscles more. It is a winning combination of both form and function.
| Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|
 | Life Fitness T5 Treadmill with Go Console | Check Price |
Difference Between Life Fitness Treadmill T3 And T5
The T3 is the basis of all newer design of the T5 as well as the Life Fitness Club Series Treadmill. Both are made by the same brand and have almost the same similarities but whether one treadmill is better than the other, you be the judge. Let’s take a closer look at their similarities and differences.
Similarities
- Same incline at 15% and the same adjustment increment at 0.5%.
- Motor system of both machines has 3 HP capacity thus providing the same minimum speed (0.5mph) and maximum speed (12mph).
- Comes with two detachable cup holders, accessory trays, and speakers for more comfort.
- Running deck made with the patented Flex Deck shock absorption system.
- Comes with two consoles – Go and Track.
- Provides the same amount of work and challenge to all levels of fitness enthusiasts.
Differences
- The T5 has a larger running deck area than the T3.
- Varying maximum user weight allowing the T5 to support heavier users.
| Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|
| | Life Fitness T3 Treadmill with Go Console | Check Price |
| | Life Fitness T5 Treadmill with Go Console | Check Price |
Unboxing the Life Fitness Treadmill T3 vs. T5
| Parameters | Life Fitness T3 | Life Fitness T5 |
|---|---|---|
| Incline | 0 to 15% | 0 to 15% |
| Incline increment | 0.5% | 0.5% |
| Motor system | 3 HP | 3 HP |
| Minimum speed | 0.5 mph | 0.5 mph |
| Maximum speed | 12 mph | 12 mph |
| Cup holders | 2 | 2 |
| Running or deck area | 60” x 20” | 60” x 22” |
| Dimension | 79.5” x 34.5” x 57.5” | 79.5” x 32” x 61” |
| Maximum user weight | 350 lbs. | 400 lbs. |
| Roller | 2.5” precision crown rollers | 2.5” precision crown rollers |
| Belt | Flex Deck shock absorption system | Flex Deck shock absorption system |
| Can be folded? | No | No |
| Heart rate monitor | Handle grips | Handle grips with wireless chest straps |
| Display | 2 console options: Go and Track (both compatible with iPod for Go console and fitness apps for Track console) | 2 console options: Go and Track (both compatible with iPod for Go console and fitness apps for Track console) |
| Cooling fan | No | No |
| Accessory tray | Yes | Yes |
| Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | Frame: lifetime Motor: 10 years Parts: 5 years Labor: 1 year | Frame and deck: lifetime Motor: 10 years Parts: 7 years Labor: 1 year |
Buyer’s Guide for Life Fitness Treadmill T3 and T5
Comparing the T3 and T5 Life Fitness treadmills will definitely give you the idea that the latter is the better version of T3. But in reality, both almost have the same features except for the wider running track and the weight capacity of the T3.
Both exercise machines still come with the same incline, adjustable increments, track material, handles, accessories, and displays. With only a few differences, how do you choose which one fits your needs? Read below as we have compiled a list of questions that will help you decide which one you need to get.
Which provides better comfort?
It is important to take note that both T3 and T5 features the same Flex Deck shock absorption system thus it lessens the impact on your foot and joint when you are running on a treadmill compared to when you are running on a dirt road. But what makes the T5 more beneficial is its extra 2 inches running area that can make a huge difference in providing comfort and freedom while running. This is especially true if you have a robust size and you need all the space that you need to be able to use the treadmill comfortably. If you have an average weight and size, then you don’t really need that extra 2 inches on your running area, so you can do away with the T3.
Which can support my building?
Both T3 and T5 can support users with bigger body frames and heavier weight. In fact, the T3 can support up to 350 pounds weight while the T5 can support 400 pounds weight. So, if you are an average fitness enthusiast, you can rely on the T3. However, if you are heavier than 350 pounds, it is safer to get the T5.
Which has better performance?
We cannot really say which one performs better than the other. The thing is that everything relies on your preferences as well as your size when it comes to these two treadmills. You have to take note that both machines can help you achieve your fitness goals because they have almost the same features. Thus, when trying to decide which ones to get, it is critical to base your decision on your weight and personal preferences. But in any case, whatever treadmill you get, you will still get the best results with either of the two.
| Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|
| | Life Fitness T3 Treadmill with Go Console | Check Price |
| | Life Fitness T5 Treadmill with Go Console | Check Price |
Conclusion
The T3 and T5 treadmills by Life Fitness have good track records in the market and they both give you the same cardio workout and results. Deciding which one to choose depends on different things but your size and personal preferences are things that can majorly influence your decision.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, you can benefit from both treadmills because they come with the same features. However, if you have a bigger size, then opting for the T5 is your best option.
If you are just looking for a straightforward, simple, and effective treadmill, then you will be satisfied with the T3. But we can assure you that whatever treadmill you get, you can achieve the results that you need. And that is our guarantee!
Chris Jordan
Hey there, I'm Chris Jordan! I'm a certified personal trainer and dietician with over 11 years of experience in the fitness industry. I've helped thousands of people achieve better physical and mental health. When I'm not working, I love spending time with my dog.
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