Tri-Fit attempts to strike in between affordability and quality, but how does it fare? Our Tri-Fit review exposed this cross trainer to some rigorous testing, and here’s what we found…
JTX have a good range of cross trainers and the Tri-Fit sits firmly in the middle of the five products they offer. Although the Tri-Fit is moderately priced, it is not too far off their top-level model (the JTX Zenith Rise) in terms of functionality, and leaps and bounds ahead of their entry-level model.
As such, it is well deserving of consideration. We were lucky enough to take this cross trainer on test for three weeks. In this JTX Tri-Fit review, we show you what we discovered.
JTX Tri-Fit Overview
The Tri-Fit cross trainer is not a low-budget option, but neither will it break the bank. With this model, JTX have looked to strike the perfect blend of affordability with a high quality of build that is reliable and likely to last for years to come.
It has some strong specs that put it in line with commercial gym quality cross trainers, though it is very much designed to be used in the home.
The Tri-Fit looks like a quality piece of kit and has a matt black plastic outer that houses the high-quality steel mechanics driving the main functions of the machine. Though the flywheel is on the smaller side at 8.5kg, the Tri-Fit offers 16 levels of magnetic resistance that are electronically controlled.
The Tri-Fit also offers three levels of incline – which is a feature not often provided on a cross trainer, and likely what gives it its unique ‘Tri’ name. There is a large LCD display and although it won’t win any awards for its aesthetic appearance, it is perfectly functional, well-sized, and easy to read all your key data as well as enabling your to navigate the main settings.
With 19 pre-set programmes to choose from, the JTX Tri-Fit provides plenty of scope for training with a variety of foci. This includes 12 fitness-based workouts which cover hill climbing and interval workouts, with the resistance levels changing automatically as and when required.
There are also 4 heart rate modes which can be used with the built-in pulse sensors or by using a Polar compatible heart rate strap. You can of course also opt for completely manual control, with buttons on the central console, or the quick select intensity buttons on the handles being used to control the difficulty level.
Finally, there is a custom programmable setting which allows you to create your own workout with virtually limitless options.
This cross trainer weighs in at 69kg and has a maximum user weight of 150kg. This high user weight should give you a good idea as to the quality of the Tri-Fit, as many cross trainers have significantly lower maximum user weights than this.
The dimensions stand at 153cm (L) x 75cm (W) x 173cm (H), but be aware that you will need a minimum length of 165cm when using the machine as the pedals need space to move backwards as well as forwards.
The maximum pedal height is 32cm so you should add this to your own height to determine the minimum ceiling height needed for proper operation. We would suggest adding a little more – 40cm plus your height should be ample and not leave you in fear of bashing your head on the ceiling.
The Tri-Fit’s maximum stride length is 20 inches, which is in line with commercial grade equipment (usually 20-21 inches). This stride length can be altered from 16-20 inches, which is an unusual advantage to have from a cross trainer.
Most people will want to use the 20-inch stride length, but for those with smaller leg lengths or for anyone who wants to mix up their training, the adjustable stride length is a pretty nifty feature.
The Q-Factor (which measures the distance between the feet) is 150mm, which is generally considered to be the ideal distance for optimal comfort and efficient training.
You will find a pair of speakers built in, which can be used for music or connecting to various running apps such as Kinomap. There is also a device holder that is positioned just beneath the main screen, and when using Bluetooth you can also connect to i-Console (included) and third-party apps such as Google Maps for even more functionality. For convenience, there is also a well-positioned water bottle holder.
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Using The JTX Tri-Fit
For this review, we tested the JTX Tri-Fit cross trainer for three weeks in total with three different users. Each of the users found it comfortable to use, easy to get started, and with a good range of challenge that would be suitable for people of all levels of cardiovascular fitness.
Worried about assembling the Tri-Fit? The thought of it can make us home gym enthusiasts sweat! Thankfully, assembling this cross trainer is a breeze. All the complex parts are already built, leaving you with a 30-45-minute job of adding the finishing touches.
There are good-quality instructions included and although it is a two-person job, you will be up and training in no time.
Everything about the Tri-Fit has a robust feel to it, and all the main touch points are well made. The pedals are of a good size and have a rubber grip that gives you a good level of stability.
The handles are also large and well designed, meaning you have multiple grip points – so no matter how tall you are there will be a comfortable grip position. The curved design of the stationary handlebars also gives you a range of options for grip position, and is useful if you feel the need to change position when really pushing hard.
There are pulse rate sensors on both the stationary and moving handles, and these work well with heart rate data displayed on the main screen.
The adjustable incline is a key reason the Tri-Fit is well worth the investment. There are not many cross trainers that include an incline setting and there are three incline settings to choose from with this model.
They do have to be set up manually which means you can’t really change mid-workout (at least not without getting off the machine), but they do allow you to target your lower body in slightly different ways depending on the setting you choose. Crucially, the incline does not affect the stride length, so you can still enjoy a large stride with the highest incline.
The adjustable stride length is the final factor that sets this model apart from others and although most people will simply opt for the 20-inch stride, there will be some users who will be glad of the shorter stride length options and this is ideal if you have multiple users of differing heights.
JTX have really pulled out all the stops with the Tri-Fit and we have to say that it is one of our favourite mid-level cross trainers in terms of functionality. The LCD screen does leave a little to be desired, but the Bluetooth connectivity means you can use your own device to access even more features, and the use of third-party apps can help you to not only track your progress but keep you motivated too.
When you use the JTX Tri-Fit you will find that it is incredibly stable, everything feels solid but fluid in motion, and the touch points are incredibly comfortable. All of this means you will be working out for 30-60 minutes at a time without too much discomfort – a gruelling workout that is stress free on the joints and getting that heart rate pumping.
There is a two-year parts and labour warranty and five-year frame warranty, which is a reassuring and supportive back-up from JTX.
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JTX Tri-Fit Verdict
The JTX Tri-Fit is a high-quality cross trainer that will easily reign supreme over others in its price band, and can even put up a worthy fight against more expensive competition. The low-fi LCD is the only real downside to this strong and durable cross trainer, but thanks to some excellent connectivity and third-party apps you can sync your own device to overcome this minor irritant.
If you are looking for a good-quality cross trainer that will last for years to come, then the Tri-Fit is a brilliant option.