NordicTrack FreeStride Trainer FS14i Elliptical Review – 2024

*TreadmillReviewGuru helps consumers find the best home fitness products. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Last Updated: May 5, 2023

The NordicTrack Freestride FS14i Trainer is the premier trainer in NordicTrack’s elliptical lineup. Like the FS10i, the FS14i is a hybrid elliptical/stair stepper combo that allows users to move in three different ways. You can slide the pedals straight forward and back for a treadmill feel, or you can lift your feet up and down to mimic a stair stepper.

NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Review 2024

This hybrid elliptical gives you a lot of training options, but it does require a bit of dedicated space.

Check Best Price

A combination of the up/down and forward/back movement gives you a challenging, but low-impact workout. The FS14i declines to a -10% and inclines to 10%, has 26 resistance levels and a 32 inch stride length forward to back. This allows for a wider stride than comparable treadmills. The FS14i also has a large, 14” touchscreen. Read our review below for more in depth information.

Why Trust Our Review Of The NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer

Here at Treadmill Review Guru, we test equipment to give you insight into if it’s right for you, your goals, and home space. We take our products through a variety of tests to see how it performs and how the overall construction handles use from our reviewers.

When testing the NordicTrack FS14i, we compared it to NordicTrack’s FS10i FreeStride Trainer and the Commercial 14.9 Elliptical. That way you can see how these 3 NordicTrack machines compare to one another.

Our NordicTrack FS14i Video Review


Pros
  • The 3 in 1 design allows the FS14i to be used as a stair stepper, elliptical or treadmill based on how you move the pedals.
  • It can drop to a -10% decline and pivot to a 10% incline for a full range of incline challenges.
  • Regardless of how you use the FS14i, it provides a nice low-impact workout.
  • The resistance is quiet and does not generate much noise regardless of your resistance level.
  • The Flywheel is centered under the user’s body weight for upright posture and back support.
  • It’s iFit enabled so you can access thousands of trainer-led workouts from the touchscreen.
  • There is a fan built into the console that is surprisingly strong.
  • The 14” touchscreen is bright and easy to see.
Cons
  • This machine has a compact footprint — but the 32 inch stride range requires significant space both in front of and behind the machine.
  • There is a monthly subscription cost for iFit after the first 30 days.
NordicTrack FS14i Elliptical


FeaturesSpecifications
  • Includes 30-Day iFit® membership
    • The FS14i includes the first 30 days of iFit free which includes the full database of workout programs and up to 5 profiles. With the 14” screen, having iFit on the FS14i makes sense and we like how it is included free for the first month so users can see and test all the options and classes.
  • 32″ Auto-Adjustable Stride
    • This is roughly double the stride length of comparable ellipticals. It allows you to get a full leg extension on the FS14i. However, this does require a bit of space both in front and behind the machine — so make sure you have enough room for the pedal motion.
  • 26 Digital Resistance Levels
    • The FS14i has 26 silent magnetic resistance levels for minimal noise output during use. Unlike a treadmill that makes quite a bit of thumping noise, the FS14i is relatively quiet since the resistance is silent.
  • Power Adjustable -10% decline to 10% Incline
    • The FS14i will decline to a -10% grade so you can target anterior muscles and vary your workout. It will also incline up to 10% to make the workout more challenging for a higher calorie burn.
  • 20 Lb. Effective Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel
    • The flywheel on the Freestride FS14i is centered under the user’s body weight, for an upright posture with smooth resistance.
  • Oversized Levelers and Cushion Pedals
    • Upright handlebars are well positioned and easy to hold. Pedals and handlebars are coordinated for synchronized motion. You can pedal forward or backward.
  • Steel Frame and 375 Lb. User Capacity
    • We love this max user weight! 375lb indicates a strong, well-built machine. Ellipticals have to be sturdy and reinforced to hold that max user weight up off the floor throughout the workout. We are impressed with NordicTrack’s design and functionality.
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
    • A workout fan in the console is super nice! There are multiple speed options so you get the right amount of air flow.
  • 10-Year Frame Warranty
    • This extensive warranty reflects NordicTrack’s solid design and construction.

Construction:

  • Oversized Cushion Pedals
  • Center Drive
  • 20 Lb. Effective Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • Commercial Solid Steel Construction
  • Oversized Levelers
  • 375 Lb. User Capacity
  • Transport Wheels and Handle
  • 58.5″ L x 29.5″ W x 74″ H Footprint

Console:

  • 14” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Pivoting Integrated Tablet Holder
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • SoftTouch™ Upper Body Grips
  • OneTouch® Controls
  • Water Bottle Holder

Functionality:

  • Includes 30-day iFit® membership**
  • 32″ Auto-Adjustable Stride
  • 26 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Power Adjustable 10% Decline to 10% Incline
  • iFit® Bluetooth® Smart Chest Strap Included

Warranty:

  • 10-Year Frame Warranty
  • 2-Year Parts Warranty
  • 1-Year Labor Warranty

In-depth Review of ProForm City L6 Treadmill


Construction

NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Matthew Elliptical

The overall construction makes the FS14i feel solid and sturdy while you’re using it.

Frame

  • The frame on the FS14i is steel with oversized levelers underneath that hold the base stable and powder coated uprights support the handlebars and console
  • The pedals are oversized with a textured footrest and plastic overlays protect the flywheel and joints.
  • Some users have complained about rocking motion on the FS14i — we didn’t experience this, but it may be due to shifting body weight side to side. If you find the FS14i rocks a bit, try to limit your side-to-side motion and make sure you have a mat or carpet underneath to prevent the machine from shifting on the floor.
  • 375lb user capacity is impressive and opens the FS14i up to most users.

Geometry

  • The FS14i is a center drive flywheel system, with the flywheel positioned to the side of the pedals. This allows users to stand upright and provides better balance with less forward-leaning motion than on front or rear drive systems.
  • However, there are no stationary handles on the FS14i, so it can be challenging to get on and off the elliptical since the pedals don’t lock. Because the pedals are designed to move both up and down as well as forward and back, there is more motion than users may be expecting the first time. We recommend users hold on to the uprights when stepping onto the pedals. It also might not be best for users with balance or mobility issues to get on and off safely.
  • The pedals and handles move in line with each other for a synchronized feel. Due to the extended 32 inch pedal range, the horizontal pedal bars do extend both in front and behind the FS14i. We recommend not positioning the FS14i directly in front of a wall or door. Also, warn people who may walk behind or in front of you that the pedals extend forward and back.
  • NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Handles

    The texture on the handles doesn’t feel sticky or slippery, even after you get sweating.

  • Handles engage the upper body so you get more of a full body workout on the FS14i. Pulling the handles towards you engages the biceps, anterior deltoids, and lats. Pressing the handles forward engages the triceps, rear delt, and forearms. This feature makes the FS14i beneficial for multiple muscular systems since you can develop both lower body and upper body conditioning all at once.

Pedals

  • The foot pedals are wide with extended length and extra support under foot. Large steel horizontal beams underlie each pedal which attach to the handles.
  • The pedals have an extended range of 32” which enhances your range of motion significantly. We like that NordicTrack features this length on their FS10i and 14.9 elliptical as well. This pedal stride does feel a bit long, especially if you’re shorter, but it’s nice that you can adjust to make your stride shorter. While we definitely like that the stride is adjustable, in our testing we found it to be a bit challenging to figure out the different movements beyond the forward-motion elliptical movement. In order to do the stair-stepper motion, or even just shorten your stride length, you have to lessen the movement from the handles.
  • Foot pads are molded with a ledge around the sides and front to keep your foot from slipping forward or side to side.
  • NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Pedals

    Gently textured surface provides a nice foot-hold for any athletic shoe.

  • The pedals are plenty large and will support users of all sizes.

Handles

  • The handles on the FS14i angle upward to keep your wrists, elbows and shoulders in alignment while in use.
  • There are resistance and incline/decline adjustment buttons on the handles for easy and quick adjusting
  • Handles connect down to the pedal beams so motion is streamlined between hands and feet.
  • From the base of the console, the handles extend 8” vertically to provide plenty of area to hold whether you are pedaling up and down or front to back.
  • We do wish that there was a stationary handle or handles to help get on the machine, and to use when you just want to work your lower body like on the NordicTrack 14.9 Elliptical.

FlyWheel

  • This is a center drive system just like the FS10i FreeStride Trainer. The Flywheel is effectively 20 pounds so rotation is pretty smooth. There is a flywheel beneath each pedal for a balanced feel underfoot. Heavier flywheels generally produce smoother motion, but we didn’t notice any jerkiness or heaviness in the pedal rotation. Both flywheels are covered with a plastic overlay to protect the drivetrain from sweat, debris, dust or damage.


Incline

  • Most ellipticals do not incline. The FS14i both inclines and declines — so you can work uphill or downhill like you would on a treadmill. This increases training variables for a more well-rounded workout. Users can move the pedals in an up/down stair stepper motion with the drive angled to a 10% grade for one glute-killing workout.
  • NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Flywheel

    The combination of incline and resistance makes the FS14i a great training machine.

  • Incline is automated in any iFit or onboard programs, so you can start any class and the machine will adjust for you as you progress. This allows users to keep their hands on the handles at all times.

Resistance

  • The FS14i uses magnetic resistance which is quiet and smooth. Magnets adjacent to the flywheel oppose the wheel’s rotation to create resistance. There is no friction which reduces both noise and wear on the flywheel.
  • 26 resistance levels are digitally set to be precise and consistent. Resistance is automated to sync with both the iFit classes and onboard programs, so you have the option to manually adjust resistance or allow it to follow the course of the workout without having to adjust it. This lets users keep their hands on the handlebars throughout the workout.
  • This many levels augments the functionality of the multi-directional design. Most people are strongest in the sagittal plane when motion is forward, so using the FS14i as a treadmill or elliptical is easier than as a stair stepper since pulling the feet up and down tends to be more challenging. Having several different resistance options not only enhances the functionality of the FS14i as an elliptical, it makes it more usable as a stair stepper or treadmill as well.

Console/Controls

NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Console

The console is easy to navigate, and most of the functionality is built into the touchscreen.

Screen

  • 14” Screen
    • The 14” touchscreen on the FS14i is a game changer. The FS10i is a similar machine, but the larger screen on the FS14i makes all the difference. It’s also the same size as the touch screen on the 14.9 Elliptical. You can both see the iFit program — and manipulate the touchscreen controls better thanks to the larger screen.
    • Users who purchase this machine will most likely use the iFit programs even after the initial free month, so having a larger touch screen makes the FS14i more enjoyable to use.
    • The touchscreen is embedded in the center of the console. This position makes it easy to see and touch when needed. The speakers are front facing and project at you so they can be heard loudly and clearly.
    • Touchscreen functionality reduces the buttons needed on the console. The only buttons on the console are to change the incline and resistance levels and turn the fan on/off on the console.
    • The screen is easy to see and reach. It tilts very slightly to adjust. I was able to see my iFit classes and workout metrics well.
  • Resolution
    • The screen is crisp and resolution is adjustable in the settings tab under the main menu.
  • Touchscreen Capabilities
  • The touchscreen controls are good. Toggling through class options or screen controls is easy and navigation is intuitive in both the iFit and onboard programs.
  • Resistance levels, incline grade and volume can be adjusted via the touchscreen.
  • Metric Display
  • A white display bar along the top of the screen provides the following stats:
    • Calories burned/Calories per hour
    • Strokes/Strokes per minute
    • Time Elapsed/Time Remaining
    • Distance
  • Functionality
    • The overall functionality of the FS14i is greatly enhanced by the touchscreen. It makes all the difference in creating an engaging and motivating workout. The size and functionality of the 14” touchscreen makes a big difference.

Accessories

  • Fans
    • A multi-power fan is located in the console of the FS14i which you can control via buttons on the console or in the touchscreen.
    • The fan has four settings: low, medium, high and auto. The auto feature syncs the fan speed with your cadence and resistance, so the harder you work, the more air the fan blows. The air output is surprisingly strong, but the fan does make a noise.
  • Console Storage
    • The FS14i doesn’t have any storage or device rack built into the console, so you’re limited to using the touch screen for iFit, or using your television for entertainment.
  • Cupholders
    • There is one large cup holder in front of the console. It holds my 22oz water bottle or my phone in place. Neither move while I’m using the FS14i.

Noise Level

The FS14i makes very little noise. The incline and decline feature and fan make the most noise, but it’s overall noise output when in use is still pretty low.

Storage / Folding

  • The FS14i does not fold up and even though the footprint itself is rather compact, the machine requires a significant amount of forward and rear space for the 32 inch stride length. This is not a small machine. It is heavy and hard to move, so we recommend placing the FS14i where you plan to use it and don’t move it regularly.
  • There are wheels under the frame to roll the FS14i when needed, but moving it regularly is not recommended.

iFit and Onboard workouts

Pre-programmed workouts

  • The onboard workouts are sufficient to keep you active and provide plenty of training variables. However, we find iFit workouts to be a great way to stay interested and motivated, so it’s nice to have one free year to determine how much you will actually use it.

  • iFit Subscription

    NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer iFit Class

    iFit is included free for the first month with up to five profiles.

    • Elliptical classes are filmed in a studio with a trainer in front of you and other participants working out alongside. There are also outdoor elliptical, hiking, walking, and running routes. The resistance is automated, so it will automatically adjust to whatever the trainer is doing.
    • The outdoor routes really make a difference on the FS14i — since you can enjoy the scenery and outdoor landscapes of areas all over the world, it makes it feel more engaging to workout. Our personal preference is the hiking trails offered in some really beautiful locations.

    Functionality:

    Overall, the FS14i FreeStride Trainer gives a great low impact, full body workout. We did notice that in order to adjust the stride length of the pedals, it can take a little finessing of your positioning. It does require you to work a little harder to shorten your stride, especially when you mimic the up and down motion of a stair stepper, but that makes it an effective machine for exercise.

    NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Cupholder

    The only bit of storage is this large cupholder.

    We do wish there was a little bit of storage available on the console, but it’s not a huge issue. iFit definitely enhances the experience on the FreeStride Trainer because you can take a wide variety of iFit’s classes on it, like walking, hiking, running, and elliptical classes. We highly recommend getting the membership to get the most functionality out of the machine.

    The trainer controlled auto adjusting of the resistance and incline is very helpful to have when you’re taking a class so you don’t have to worry about changing the levels yourself. Although, all of the buttons are well within reach to easily use.

    Bottom Line: NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Elliptical

    The NordicTrack FS14i is a hybrid 3 in 1 trainer that can be used as an elliptical, treadmill or stair stepper. The iFit classes and programs help target different areas and different movement patterns in each workout. When taking an iFit class, the FreeStride Trainer will automatically adjust the tension and incline levels when the trainer gives the cue.

    The handles move in line with the pedals for streamlined motion between hands and feet. The FS14i also inclines to 10% grade and declines to a -10%. This makes hiking both uphill and downhill more realistic and it targets different muscle groups in the legs. Uphill work targets the posterior chain: glutes, hamstrings and calves. While downhill training focuses more on the anterior groups of the quads and anterior tibialis.

    The NordicTrack FS14i is a good elliptical trainer, but it takes up a bit of space and requires about four feet of clearance both in front and behind the machine. However, the 26 digital resistance levels and extended range of motion make this a great option for those who need a low-impact but high-calorie burning workout. As a center drive elliptical, the FS14i allows users to stand upright for better balance and more posterior engagement. The 20lb flywheel motion is smooth so both pedals glide evenly. iFit classes and content are varied and interesting. iFit offers live classes, several outdoor routes and has a Leaderboard as well.

    2 Comments

    POST REPLY

    Reply Cancel Reply