Life Fitness Essential FT4 User manual

FT4 Treadmill
USER MANUAL

1
LIFE FITNESS ASIA PACIFIC LTD
Room 2610, Miramar Tower
132 Nathan Road
Tsimshatsui, Kowloon
HONG KONG
Telephone: [phone]
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LIFE FITNESS ATLANTIC BV
LIFE FITNESS BENELUX
Bijdorpplein 25-31
2992 LB Barendrecht
THE NETHERLANDS
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LIFE FITNESS DO BRAZIL
Av. Dr. Dib Sauaia Neto 1478
Alphaville, Barueri, SP
06465-140
BRAZIL
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LIFE FITNESS VERTRIEBS GMBH
Dückegasse 7-9/3/36
1220 Vienna
AUSTRIA
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LIFE FITNESS IBERIA
Pol. Ind. Molí dels Frares. c/C, nº 12
08620 Sant Vicenç dels Horts (Barcelona)
SPAIN
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LIFE FITNESS EUROPE GMBH
Siemensstrasse 3
85716 Unterschleissheim
GERMANY
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LIFE FITNESS ITALIA S.R.L.
Via Vittorio Veneto, 57/A
39042 Bressanone (Bolzano)
ITALY
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LIFE FITNESS LATIN AMERICA
and CARIBBEAN
10601 West Belmont Avenue
Franklin Park, Illinois 60131
U.S.A.
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LIFE FITNESS UK LTD
Queen Adelaide
Ely, Cambs CB7 4UB
UNITED KINGDOM
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LIFE FITNESS JAPAN
Nippon Brunswick Bldg., #8F
5-27-7 Sendagaya
Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo
JAPAN 151-0051
Telephone: [phone]
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7363601
11/02
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
10601 West Belmont Avenue
Franklin Park, Illinois 60131 • U.S.A.
847.288.3300 • FAX: [phone]
800.735.3867 (Toll-free within U.S.A., Canada)
www.lifefitness.com
INTERNATIONAL OFFICES

Before using this product, it is essential to read this
ENTIRE operation manual and ALL installation instructions.
This will help in setting up the equipment quickly
and in instructing others on how to use it correctly and safely.
Class HB (Home): Domestic use. Not designed for therapeutic purposes.
CAUTION: Any changes or modifications to this equipment could void the product warranty.
Any service, other than cleaning or user maintenance, must be performed by an authorized service representative.
There are no user-serviceable parts.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Unpacking and Assembly .........................................................................................................................................4
Operation .................................................................................................................................................................6
1. Getting Started........................................................................................................................................................7
1.1 Important Safety Instructions....................................................................................................................7
1.2 Set-up.......................................................................................................................................................8
Folding, Moving, and Positioning the Treadmill // Electrical Requirement // Grounding Instructions
// Starting Up the Treadmill // Getting On and Off the Treadmill // Keeping the Treadmill Deck
Lubricated // Centering the Treadmill Belt // Adjusting the Treadmill Belt Tension
2. The Display Console ................................................................................................................................10
2.1 Display Console Overview .......................................................................................................................10
2.2 Display Console Descriptions ..................................................................................................................11
2.3 Emergency Stop System..........................................................................................................................11
2.4 Accessory Trays and Reading Rack ........................................................................................................12
3. The Workouts ...........................................................................................................................................13
3.1 Workout Overviews ..................................................................................................................................13
3.2 Using the Workouts ..................................................................................................................................13
To Begin Any Workout Setup // Selecting Quick Start // Selecting and Using a Manual Workout //
Selecting and Using a Speed Interval or Aerobic Workout // Selecting and Using a Fat Burner,
Cross-Country, or Hill Climb Workout // Selecting and Using a Goal Workout //
Using the Heart Rate Zone to Maximize Workout Benefits // Ending a Workout Early
3.3 Workout Descriptions ..............................................................................................................................15
Speed Interval // Aerobic // Fat Burner // Cross-country // Hill Climb // Target Time //
Target Distance // Target Calories
4. Service and Technical Data......................................................................................................................17
4.1 Preventative Maintenance Tips ...............................................................................................................17
4.2 When and How to Obtain Product Service ..............................................................................................17
Identifying Problems // Obtaining Service
4.3 Treadmill Specifications............................................................................................................................19
© 2002 Life Fitness, a division of Brunswick Corporation. All rights reserved. Life Fitness is a registered trademark of Brunswick
Corporation. Any use of these trademarks, without the express written consent of Life Fitness or the corresponding companies is
forbidden.

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UNPACKING THE TREADMILL
1. Carefully cut and remove the SHIPPING BANDS.
2. Carefully disengage the staples securing the TOP
TRAY.
3. Lift the TOP TRAY upward and off of the BOTTOM
TRAY.
4. Remove the TOP SPACERS, DISPLAY CONSOLE
BOX and UPRIGHTS.
5. Remove the remaining packaging from the deck of
the TREADMILL.
Caution: The treadmill should be assembled
before removing it from the bottom shipping tray.
Follow the assembly instructions on the opposite
page before proceeding.
6. From the rear of the TREADMILL, tilt the BASE
upward until it locks upright.
7. Tear the front end of the BOTTOM SHIPPING TRAY
at the corners and fold the flap downward.
8. Carefully roll the TREADMILL forward and off of the
BOTTOM SHIPPING TRAY.
9. Carefully roll the treadmill near the desired location
for use.
10. Unfold the treadmill: Stand directly behind the tread-
mill. Support the treadmill base with the right hand,
and pull and hold the release handle downward with
the left hand. The handle is located on the end of the
left main frame. Begin lowering the base a short dis-
tance. Let go of the release handle and, with both
hands, guide the treadmill deck down to unfold it.
Caution: As the treadmill comes closer to the
ground, it lowers at a faster rate and feels
heavier.

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ASSEMBLING THE TREADMILL
Tools Required: Metric Wrench Set, Metric
Allen Wrench Set, Phillips Screwdriver
1. Locate the USER LEFT UPRIGHT (A) (upright with
pre-fed CONSOLE CABLE). With the HANDLEBAR
EXTENSION facing the rear of the unit, position the
USER LEFT UPRIGHT near the USER LEFT
UPRIGHT BRACKET (B). Connect the CONNEC-
TORS (C) leading from the USER LEFT UPRIGHT
and USER LEFT UPRIGHT BRACKET. Slide the
USER LEFT UPRIGHT over the USER LEFT
UPRIGHT BRACKET until fully seated. Install one
5/8" BUTTON HEAD SCREW (1) and LOCK
WASHER (2) each in the side and rear mounting
holes of the USER LEFT UPRIGHT. Finger-tighten
the SCREWS.
Caution: Do not pinch the cable when sliding
the USER LEFT UPRIGHT (A) over the USER
LEFT UPRIGHT BRACKET (B).
2. Locate the USER LEFT UPRIGHT BRACE (D).
Using four 5/8" BUTTON HEAD SCREWS (1) and
LOCK WASHERS (2), secure the USER LEFT
UPRIGHT BRACE to the front of the USER LEFT
UPRIGHT (A) and the FRAME (E). Finger-tighten
the SCREWS.
3. Locate the USER RIGHT UPRIGHT (F). With the
HANDLEBAR EXTENSION facing the rear of the
unit, position the USER RIGHT UPRIGHT near the
USER RIGHT UPRIGHT BRACKET (G). Slide the
USER RIGHT UPRIGHT over the USER RIGHT
UPRIGHT BRACKET until fully seated. Install one
5/8" BUTTON HEAD SCREW (1) and LOCK
WASHER (2) each in the side and rear mounting
holes of the USER RIGHT UPRIGHT. Finger-tighten
the SCREWS.
4. Locate the USER RIGHT UPRIGHT BRACE (H).
Using four 5/8" BUTTON HEAD SCREWS (1) and
LOCK WASHERS (2), secure the USER RIGHT
UPRIGHT BRACE to the front of the USER RIGHT
UPRIGHT (F) and the FRAME (E). Finger-tighten
the SCREWS.
5. Locate the HANDRAIL (J). With the stepped exten-
sion end of the HANDRAIL facing right, position the
HANDRAIL between the LEFT and RIGHT
UPRIGHTS (A) & (F) at the HANDRAIL MOUNTING
HOLES. Secure the user left side of the HANDRAIL
to the LEFT UPRIGHT using the 2" BUTTON HEAD
SCREW (3) and one LOCK WASHER (2). Secure
the user right side of the HANDRAIL to the RIGHT
UPRIGHT using one 5/8" BUTTON HEAD SCREW
(1) and one LOCK WASHER (2).
6. Locate the DISPLAY CONSOLE (K). Position the
DISPLAY CONSOLE near the top ends of the LEFT
and RIGHT UPRIGHTS (A) & (F). Connect the
CONNECTOR (L) leading from the top of the USER
LEFT UPRIGHT to the CONNECTOR (L) leading
from the user left side of the DISPLAY CONSOLE.
Slide the DISPLAY CONSOLE onto the TOP
UPRIGHT EXTENSIONS. Secure the DISPLAY
CONSOLE to the uprights using two 5/8" BUTTON
HEAD SCREWS (1) and LOCK WASHERS (2) on
either side of the DISPLAY CONSOLE. Tighten the
SCREWS securely.
Caution: Do not pinch the cable when sliding
the DISPLAY CONSOLE (K) onto the LEFT and
RIGHT UPRIGHTS (A) & (F).
7. Tighten all SCREWS securely.
8. Position the TREADMILL into the desired location
for use.
9. Plug the TREADMILL into a proper electrical outlet
as instructed in SECTION 1.2 of this manual.

This Operation Manual describes the functions of the following products:
Life Fitness Essential treadmill:
FT4
See Section 5, titled Specifications page in this manual
for product-specific features.
Statement of Purpose: The treadmill is an exercise machine that enables users to walk or run, in place, on a moving
surface.
Health-related injuries may result from incorrect or excessive use of exercise equipment. The manufacturer
STRONGLY recommends seeing a physician for a complete medical exam before undertaking an exercise
program, particularly if the user has a family history of high blood pressure or heart disease; or is over the
age of 45; or smokes, has high cholesterol, is obese, or has not exercised regularly in the past year. The
manufacturer also recommends consulting a fitness professional on the correct use of this product.
If, at any time while exercising, the user experiences faintness, dizziness, pain, or shortness of breath, he or
she must stop immediately.
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1GETTING STARTED
1.1 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY WARNING: The safety of the product can be maintained only if it is examined regularly for
damage and wear. See Preventative Maintenance section for details.
• Before using this product, it is essential to read this ENTIRE operation manual and ALL instructions. The tread-
mill is intended for use solely in the manner described in this manual.
• Always follow the console instructions for proper operation.
• Close supervision is necessary when used by or near children, invalids or disabled persons.
• If a treadmill does not function properly after it has been dropped, damaged, or even partially immersed in water,
contact Customer Support Services for assistance. See Section 4 for details.
• Never insert objects into any opening in the treadmill. If an object should drop inside, carefully retrieve it. If the
item is beyond reach, contact Customer Support Services for assistance. See Section 4 for details.
• Use caution when unfolding the treadmill. As the treadmill base is unfolded, it will feel heavier and lower at an
increasing rate as it moves closer to the ground.
• Never place liquids of any type directly on the unit, except in an accessory tray. Containers with lids are
recommended.
• Do not use the treadmill outdoors, near swimming pools or in areas of high humidity.
• When in use, keep all loose clothing, shoelaces, and towels away from the treadmill’s moving components. Keep
hands and feet away from all moving components.
• Keep the area around the treadmill clear of any obstructions, including walls and furniture. An area of six feet by
four feet behind the treadmill is recommended.
• Always be careful and exercise caution when mounting or dismounting the treadmill. Use the handlebars when-
ever additional stability is required.
• Wear shoes with rubber or high-traction soles. Do not use shoes with heels, leather soles, cleats or spikes. Do
not use the treadmill in bare feet.
• Do not tip the treadmill on its side during operation.
• To ensure proper functioning of this product, do not install attachments or accessories that are not provided or
recommended by the manufacturer.
• Be sure that the Safety Key is properly located before use.
• Use this product in a well-ventillated area.
• Use this product on a solid, level surface.
• Make sure that all components are fastened securely. These include the console, uprights, and handlebars.
• Keep the power cable and plug away from heated surfaces.
• Never place the power cord under carpeting or set any object on the power cord. Do not route the power cord
under the treadmill. Do not pull on the power cord.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

1.2 SETUP
Read the entire Operation Manual before setting up the the treadmill.
FOLDING, MOVING, AND POSITIONING THE TREADMILL
The treadmill can be folded easily by means of a “gas shock” mechanism. Folding the treadmill when it is not in use
frees up floor space and makes it easy to move the unit.
Folding the treadmill: When the treadmill is idle, set the incline grade to 0 percent, switch the unit off, and unplug it.
Then, with both hands, lift the back end of the treadmill upward until it clicks and locks into place.
Caution: The treadmill must be set to 0% before folding. Damage may occur and the treadmill may
not lock into a proper upright position.
Moving and positioning the treadmill: Once the treadmill is folded and locked, simply roll it to the desired location.
When positioning the treadmill for use, allow for a clearance area of six feet by four feet behind the treadmill to make
it easy to get on and off the treadmill and to adjust the tension of the belt. See the section titled Specifications for the
treadmill’s dimensions. Also, make sure to use the treadmill on a firm, level surface.
Note: Occasionally, after extended treadmill use, a fine black dust may accumulate on the floor beneath the unit. This
does not indicate that anything is wrong with the treadmill, and the dust can easily be removed with a vacuum clean-
er. To prevent the dust from accumulating on floor, place a mat beneath the unit.
Unfolding the treadmill: Stand directly behind the treadmill. Support the treadmill base
with the right hand, and pull and hold the release handle downward with the left hand.
The handle is located on the end of the left main frame. Begin lowering the base a
short distance. Let go of the release handle and, with both hands, guide the treadmill
deck down to unfold it.
Caution: As the treadmill comes closer to the ground, it lowers at a faster rate and feels heavier.
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENT
Consult the chart below for electrical requirements outside the U.S. and Canada. The plug must be inserted into an
electrical outlet that has been properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be properly grounded. If the unit malfunctions or breaks down, proper grounding provides a path of
least resistance for the electric current, which reduces the risk of shock to anyone touching or using the equipment.
Each unit is equipped with an electrical cord, which includes an equipment grounding conductor and a grounding
plug. The plug must be inserted into an outlet that has been properly installed and grounded in accordance with all
local codes and ordinances. Use only the power cord provided with this treadmill.
DANGER: A risk of electrical shock may result from improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor.
Check with a qualified electrician if in doubt as to proper grounding technique. DO NOT modify the plug provided with
the product. If it will not fit an electrical outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
STARTING UP THE TREADMILL
The On/Off switch for the treadmill is located next to the power supply cord at the front of the treadmill. To start up
the treadmill, simply flip the switch to the On position (|).
The treadmill will start up only when the safety key has been properly inserted into the key-holder on the console. For
more information, see section 2.3, titled Emergency Stop System.
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GETTING ON AND OFF THE TREADMILL
With the treadmill belt idle, step on the side rails to straddle the belt. Set up a workout using the steps described in
Section 3.2, titled Using the Workouts. When the belt is in motion, hold the handrails and carefully step onto the belt.
Continue to use the handrails as necessary for stability. After completing a workout, wait until the belt is idle before
stepping off.
CAUTION: Always face forward during a workout.
KEEPING THE TREADMILL DECK LUBRICATED
The treadmill deck has been pre-lubricated at the factory. However, it may require periodic lubrication throughout its
usage life for optimal performance and reduced wear-and-tear on important components . With an average rate of
use, which is approximately three weekly 30-minute workout sessions, the treadmill lubrication level should be
checked every 9 - 12 months.
To check the lubrication level: When the treadmill is idle, reach underneath the belt, palm-side-down, as far toward
the center as possible. Then, place the hand on the deck. If it is moist then it does not require lubrication. If the deck
is dry, it requires lubrication.
To add lubricant: The Lube-N-Walk®Wax Kit is recommended for this treadmill. Follow the instructions included
with the kit to add lubricant. Use of other lubrication kits may void the warranty. Contact the product service center for
more information on the Lube-N-Walk Wax Kit. See Section 4.2 for contact information.
CENTERING THE TREADMILL BELT
With normal use, the treadmill belt periodically may tend to run off-center. To test and adjust the belt, run the treadmill
at 4 mph (6.5 kph) without a user on it. To perform any centering adjustment, use the Allen wrench that was shipped
with the unit, and turn the left and right roller bolts, as described below. The roller bolts are located in the back of the
frame side rail.
If the belt runs too far to the left: Turn the left roller bolt one quarter-turn clockwise to tighten it. Then, turn the right
roller bolt on quarter-turn counterclockwise to loosen it.
If the belt runs too far to the right: Turn the right roller bolt one quarter-turn clockwise to tighten it. Then, turn the
left roller bolt on quarter-turn counterclockwise to loosen it.
After performing any adjustment, continue to run the belt without a user on it for three minutes to confirm that it is
centered. Repeat adjustments as necessary.
CAUTION: Never turn the bolts more than one quarter-turn at any time. Also, over-tightening the belt
can shorten the belt’s life considerably.
ADJUSTING THE TREADMILL BELT TENSION
As the belt stretches over time with normal use, the user may begin to feel the belt slipping across the rollers. The
slipping sensation indicates that the belt requires tightening. When the belt is idle and not in use, turn each roller bolt
one quarter turn clockwise to tighten it. Make sure to turn each bolt an equal amount.
Afterward, walk on the belt while it is in motion to test the adjustment. Repeat the tightening if necessary, but do not
turn the bolts more than one quarter-turn at any time.
If this adjustment does not stop the belt from slipping, call Customer Service. See section 4.2, titled How to Obtain
Product Service.