Teeter FreeStep LT3 Review: A Seated Cross Trainer for Bad Knees
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page. How that works
The short answer
Verdict: the FreeStep LT3 is one of the best ways to get a full-body cardio workout sitting down. It suits people with knee, hip or back problems and older adults who don't feel steady on standing machines. It fits users from 4'11" to 6'6" up to 300 lb, has 13 resistance levels, and carries a 3-year frame and 2-year parts warranty.
Skip it if you have very little floor space, or weigh over 300 lb.
Our verdict: recommendedTeeter FreeStep LT3Full-body, low-impact cardio for bad knees, hips or backs
The FreeStep LT3 is a recumbent cross trainer, sometimes called a recumbent stepper or seated elliptical. You sit in a reclined seat with back support, push two pedals in a stepping motion and pull two handles. It's built for people who want real exercise without impact or balance demands. This review uses Teeter's published specifications, independent reviews and patterns in owner feedback.
Our verdict: recommended
Teeter FreeStep LT3
Best for: Full-body, low-impact cardio for bad knees, hips or backs
- Fits users 4'11" to 6'6", up to 300 lb
- 13-level magnetic resistance on one dial
- Seat adjusts for height and depth, 3 recline positions
- 3-year frame, 2-year mechanical and electrical warranty
Currently unavailable on Amazon
Check availability on AmazonOut of stock right now. Amazon may list other sellers or a restock date.
Pros
- Zero-impact stepping motion that's easy on the knees
- Works the arms and legs together
- Wide fit range for shorter and taller users
- Quiet magnetic resistance
Cons
- Big footprint (about 62 x 33 inches)
- Two people and about 45 minutes to assemble
- 300 lb limit rules out heavier users
Specifications
| User height | 4'11" to 6'6" (150 to 198 cm) |
|---|---|
| Maximum user weight | 300 lb (136 kg) |
| Resistance | 13 magnetic levels, single dial |
| Seat | ComfortSelect seat: height and depth adjustment, 2 mounting positions, 3 recline positions |
| Handles | 4-position, adjustable-length grips |
| Console | Time, distance, speed and calories; media rack; runs on 2 AA batteries |
| Assembled size | 62.1 x 32.7 x 55.4 in (158 x 83 x 141 cm) |
| Machine weight | 110 lb (50 kg) |
| Warranty | 3 years structural, 2 years mechanical and electrical (extendable) |
Source: Teeter's FreeStep LT3 product page.
The motion: why it's easy on joints
Unlike a bike, which moves your feet in a circle, the FreeStep uses a stepping motion. Teeter says the stride is licensed from commercial physical-therapy steppers. Your knees don't bend as sharply at the top, and because you're seated and supported there's no impact. Pushing with your legs while pulling the handles also works the chest, back and arms.
Seat and fit
The LT3's main upgrade over the cheaper LT1 is the seat. It's thicker, adjusts for both height and depth, and reclines to three positions. That helps shorter and taller users get their legs in the right position. To get on, sit down first, then swing your feet onto the pedals, holding the handles for support.
LT3 vs LT1
| LT3 | LT1 | |
|---|---|---|
| User height / weight | 4'11" to 6'6", 300 lb | 4'11" to 6'6", 300 lb |
| Resistance | 13 levels | 13 levels |
| Seat | Thicker, height and depth adjustment, more positions | Recline and height adjustment |
| Pedals | SoftStep pedals | Standard |
| Warranty | 3 yr frame / 2 yr parts | 2 yr frame / 1 yr parts |
| Teeter list price | About $899 | About $699 |
If you'll use it most days, the LT3's seat and longer warranty are worth the extra. If budget is tight, the LT1 gives the same workout.
Who should buy it
- Good fit: knee or hip arthritis, people returning to exercise after an injury (with their therapist's OK), older adults who feel unsteady standing, and anyone who wants arms and legs worked together.
- Not a good fit: users over 300 lb (see our 300 lb+ ellipticals), very small rooms, or anyone who wants a standing workout.
Alternatives
- Best seated ellipticals for seniors, including under-desk options for small rooms
- Best recumbent cross trainers
- Every Teeter FreeStep model compared
FreeStep LT3 questions
Is the Teeter FreeStep good for seniors?
Yes. You stay seated with back support, there's no impact, and the resistance starts very low. That makes it one of the safer full-body cardio options for older adults. Check with your doctor first if you have heart or joint conditions.
What is the weight limit of the FreeStep LT3?
300 lb (136 kg), for users from 4'11" to 6'6".
Is the FreeStep LT3 hard to assemble?
Teeter suggests about 45 minutes with two people. If you can't do it yourself, ask a family member or book assembly through the retailer.
Does the LT3 need to be plugged in?
No. Resistance is magnetic and set by hand, and the console runs on two AA batteries, so you can place it anywhere.
Popular on Amazon: ellipticals
More dealsBest-selling items in this category on Amazon. We haven't reviewed all of them, so check the size, weight limit and return policy.
