Fitness Reality 710ST Smart Technology Elliptical Trainer

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Flywheel weight	Resistance	Console
FR 710ST 2346 Check Discounted Price	L:66.5" W:24.6" H:68.3"	300 lbs	44 lbs	Motorized- magnetic, 24 levels	24 programs, Bluetooth

The 710ST Smart Technology elliptical trainer is one of the machines released by Fitness Reality in 2017. However, in 2020, a newer version was released. So, in this post, we’re going to address the 2346 model which comes with a slightly different console and is compatible with the MyCloudFitness app. The older 2366 model was compatible with the MyFitQuest app.

Key Features and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 66.5L x 24.6W x 68.3H inches (169L x 62W x 173H cm)
• Shipping weight: 154 lbs (69.8 kg)
• Flywheel weight: 44 lbs (20 kg)
• Stride length: 20 inches (51 cm)
• Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Incline: No
• Resistance system: Motorized magnetic, 24 levels
• Console: 24 pre-set programs, 3 workout goals, recovery, Bluetooth, MyCloudFitness compatible
• Extras: Device holder, bottle holder
• Warranty: Frame 10 years / Parts 3 years / Electronics 2 years / Wear parts 2 years

Frame construction

The Fitness Reality 710ST elliptical trainer combines steel, aluminum, and thermoplastic parts in its construction. Most of the machine’s frame is made of cylindrical, rectangular, and oval steel tubes for improved sturdiness and aesthetics. The pedal rails are made of aluminum, while the covers of the drive and resistance elements, as well as several other small covers, are made of heavy-duty thermoplastic material.

All the steel tubes in the machine’s construction are double-coated with a corrosion-resistant and abrasion-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this elliptical trainer. The only exceptions are the flywheel which has a chrome-plating finish, and the aluminum wheel tracks which have their own natural polish.

Like most elliptical machines with a front-drive system, the Fitness Reality 710ST is a fairly large trainer. It is approx. 66.5″ (169 cm) long, and 24.6″ (62 cm) wide, while its moving arms reach approx. 68.3″ (173 cm) above floor level. It is also recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance all around the machine for ease of access and safe usage. Therefore, it may not fit too well in a small room.

The unit is also pretty heavy. It comes in two boxes, one of 110 lbs (49.8 kg), the other of 43 lbs (19.5 kg). Therefore, its transport should be done by two persons. However, once it is fully assembled, this elliptical can be moved by only one person. Its front base is equipped with a set of large transport wheels.

This Fitness Reality elliptical trainer is equipped with two sets of handlebars, one mobile, one fixed. The mobile handlebars feature long grips and oval grips at the top. They are attached to the pedal bars featuring plastic covers for the joints for extra protection. Evidently, since they are connected to the pedals, they continue to move for as long as you pedal. They cannot be locked to remain stationary.

The fixed handlebars attach directly to the front mast of the machine under the console. They are non-adjustable. They have short lateral grips, similar to the handlebars of a bike. Their grips integrate metallic pulse sensors and the console can track your pulse. Both handlebar sets have their main grips covered by high-density foam sleeves for extra comfort.

Elliptical path, stride, and pedal height

The Fitness Reality 710ST features a pretty neutral, horizontal elliptical path. Differently put, the pedaling motion resembles a walk or jog on a straight path, unlike other front-drive ellipticals which may have their path a bit inclined.

The machine does not have an incline system. Therefore, the position of its elliptical path or the length of its stride cannot be adjusted. It makes available a stride of approx. 20″ (51 cm). Therefore, the applicable user weight of this elliptical trainer is 5’1″ – 6’4″ (155 – 193 cm). Also, the pedals are rated for a maximum user weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg).

The pedal trays are made of heavy-duty thermoplastic material. They do not have extra cushioning. The joints of the two pedal bars integrate ball bearings for a smooth motion. The bottom pedal wheels also integrate sealed bearings and have a thick silicone rubber layer on the outside for reduced noise. This being said, the machine provides a low-impact walking motion, a great alternative to a treadmill, especially for users with joint problems or back problems.

The pedal step-up height (the lowest pedal position to the floor) is approx. 11″ (28 cm). Conversely, at their highest point, the pedals are at approx. 20″ (51 cm) above floor level. Therefore, it is recommended to place and use the machine in a room with a ceiling that is at least 25″ (63.5 cm) higher than the tallest user.

Resistance and drive

The Fitness Reality 710ST elliptical trainer is equipped with a motorized magnetic resistance system. This means that it requires an external power source to make resistance adjustment possible. It also means that the console can automatically adjust the resistance. Of course, an adapter with a power cord is included with the machine. The connection point for it is on the main base tube, close to the front.

The machine’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake and a servo motor. As you adjust the resistance from the console, or as the console adjusts the resistance automatically due to a program being selected, the motor moves the brake changing the distance between it and the flywheel, which adds or reduces the workout load.

This Fitness Reality elliptical trainer makes available 24 tension levels. The 24th level delivers quite a high difficulty offering the possibility to improve strength and push your limits. Conversely, the lowest level of resistance is actually not very light compared to other trainers, especially due to the heavy flywheel.

The machine is equipped with an extra-heavy flywheel, similar to the ones on spin bikes. It weighs 44 lbs (20 kg) and is also perimeter-weighted. This type of construction considerably improves inertia and adds consistency to the ride.

The flywheel is bi-directional. In other words, the machine allows reverse pedaling. Of course, when pedaling in reverse, you will get the same resistance as when pedaling forward, and coasting on the machine is not possible.

Like many other ellipticals or exercise bikes equipped with a magnetic resistance system, the 710ST elliptical features a belt drive system. It integrates a solid poly-v belt resistant to abrasion and stretching. This type of transmission comes with a few advantages. First of all, it generates less vibration than a chain so it contributes to the overall smoothness of the ride. And second of all, you don’t need to worry about its lubrication.

Console

The Fitness Reality 710ST elliptical machine is equipped with a mid-range console with Bluetooth connectivity. Therefore, you can sync it with your smartphone or tablet via the MyCloudFitness app to track your workout history online, as well as for other features. The app is free, available for both iOS and Android.

The console features an LCD display with LED backlight for improved readability. The display is divided into multiple sub-sections in order to show as many workout metrics as possible at once. It tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, RPM, calories, watts, and pulse. Speed and distance can be tracked in either metric or English units. While for the pulse reading, the console is not telemetric. It can only read your pulse if you hold on to the sensors integrated into the fixed handlebar of the machine.

The console makes available several workout programs. To begin with, it has the Quickstart mode with the Manual program, which offers the possibility to just exercise adjusting the resistance manually throughout your workout. There are three target settings for time, distance, and calories burned. If a target is selected for any of these metrics, the console will countdown from the selected value until it reaches zero, and notify you with a beep that you have completed your workout goal.

Next, there are 24 pre-set programs. If one of these programs is selected, the elliptical will adjust the pedal resistance automatically, depending on the current segment of the workout. Each program has its own specific segment layout. Several offer an interval training setup, others will progressively increase the resistance, then lower it abruptly, while others have a peak or hill layout.

The console also has a Pulse Recovery function with its own special key on the dashboard. This function provides feedback on your pulse recovery after the workout and evidently requires you to hold on to the sensors. Depending on the pulse count after the workout, the console will provide you with a fitness rating between F1 – excellent, and F6 – poor.

Last but not least, the console does not have integrated speakers or an AUX port, a cooling fan, or a USB port for recharging your device. However, it does integrate a device holder. This consists of a small shelf at the bottom of the unit which can serve as support for your tablet or smartphone.

Assembly and Maintenance

Although the front part of the machine with the flywheel and the resistance elements comes pre-assembled, the rest of the trainer pretty much requires user assembly. This may take up to two hours of your time, but the task is not too complicated. The manual provides clear, step-by-step assembly instructions, and all the necessary tools are included. You will basically have to connect the rail system to the front part of the frame, add the pedals, the front upright bar, the handlebars, the console, and several small covers.

In terms of maintenance, the internal parts don’t require any lubrication. The pedal wheel tracks do require some lubrication from time to time, and a small lubricant pack is included. The joints of the machine may also require lubrication if the begin to squeak, but if lubricated during assembly, this shouldn’t occur. Other than this, you should only keep the machine clean and periodically check for loose parts.

The Pros

• Sturdy steel frame – can support users up to 300 lbs;
• Aesthetic design;
• Adjustable foot levelers;
• Transport wheels on the front stabilizer;
• Large, ergonomic pedals;
• Pedal bar joints with ball bearings;
• Large silicone pedal wheels for a smooth motion;
• Aluminum tray-type tracks for improved pedal stability;
• 24 levels of magnetic, motor-assisted resistance;
• Extra-heavy, 44 lbs flywheel, with a perimeter-weighted structure for improved inertia;
• Smooth and quiet belt drive;
• Fixed and mobile handlebars;
• Pulse sensors incorporated within the fixed handlebars;
• Multi-function function console with an LED-backlit display;
• 24 pre-set programs;
• Goal functions for time, distance, and calories;
• Recovery function;
• Bluetooth connectivity – allows you to track your workout history online via the MyCloudFitness app;
• Tablet holder included;
• Bottle holder included;
• Little maintenance required;
• Excellent warranty.

The Cons

• The console is not telemetric;
• A tablet placed on the device holder may cover the console display.

Summary

The Fitness Reality 710ST is a heavy-duty elliptical trainer made for home use. It features a 24-level motorized magnetic resistance system, a 44-lb. perimeter-weighted flywheel, a set of large ergonomic pedals, and a console with Bluetooth connectivity and 24 onboard workout programs. It’s an excellent machine for light to high-intensity cardio workouts, stamina and strength development, weight loss, and muscle toning. It’s not one of the most affordable ellipticals available in this feature range, but definitely offers excellent value for the price.