Free Shipping on the Incline Trainer X7i

For those not familar with the NordicTrack Incline Trainers, they allow you to incline the deck up to 40%.  There are several benefits...

1. You get an intense cardio workout, not unlike hiking a hill or mountain.
2. You can target different leg muscles as you increase the incline.
3. There is typically less impact to your joints since you would normally walk at a steep incline rather than walk.

The NordicTrack incline trainer have gotten a certain degree of noteriety because they are used on the popular TV show "Biggest Loser". 

In addition to the 40% incline, the NordicTrack X7i also allows you to decline the deck 6%.  Furthermore it comes with a full color display and installed Google Map/iFit interactive programs.  For an extra cost you can also use iFit Live.   For more information go to my NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer Review.

An example is the NordicTrack Elite 7500 and the ProForm Perspective ES.  Both have 60" treadbelts, speakers, fans and a 7" digital TV.  If you look at the consoles, they are almost exactly the same.  The Elite 7500 has a 1/2 HP larger motor and iFit technology, although the Perspective ES had an extended warranty. 

As of 9/11/09 the ProForm Perspective ES was selling for $1,249 and the NordicTrack Elite 7500 was going for $2,499.  Almost the same machine, but the price is almost doubled on the Elite 7500.  Most likely the price on the Elite 7500 will drop $1,000 by next week. 

If you are considering either a NordicTrack or a ProForm treadmill you first want to determine what your fitness goals are and which features will accommodate those goals, i.e. motor, deck length , workout programs.  Then shop around.  See which models have the features you are looking for and at what price. You may find by shopping both brands you can save yourself several hundred dollars.

To help you get the best value I monitor the NordicTrack and ProForm sites regularly.  I'll alert you to some great buys as they come available.  (ycqsefka2p)

NordicTrack brought back the NordicTrack XT, a TV equipped treadmill with a huge 3.5 HP motor and 60" long treadbelt.  They are offering it at a bargain $1,399 (See Review).

Finally, I got an exclusve discount on extended warranties for NordicTrack treadmills - 10% off.  I know the right people.  Since NordicTrack gives you only a 1-year parts and labor warranty, it makes sense to protect you investment.   You can learn more at my NordicTrack Review.

NordicTrack Reflex Deck

I received an email from my contact at NordicTrack.  He was trying to boost sales for a couple of treadmills that use their patented Reflex deck.  It actually is an intriguing design.  The deck is made from a slab of poplar wood.  The same wood they use for snow boards.  What makes this deck unique is the way it absorbs shock. 

Unlike typical treadmills that use shocks or grommets to absorb shock.  The Reflex deck bends with the impact of your foot and then rebounds, giving a slight jolt.  It may be the most forgiving deck in the industry, and ideal for individuals who want minimal shock to their lower joints. According to my contact at NordicTrack, the Reflex treadmills are extremely popular with the executives in the company who are over 50.   

One of the reasons sales may be lacking on the Reflex treadmills is the fact the deck looks flimsy.  I personally was concerned when I first saw one.  I asked about the durability of the deck and the response was that they never had a problem with a deck cracking.  In fact, the deck is rated for a maximum 350 lb. person.  That may be higher than I would rate it, but overall the deck is solid.

So should you consider a NordicTrack Reflex deck treadmill?  I would say this deck is ideal for individuals that are older or have injuries or stress issues with their joints.  It may not be the right choice for serious runners who are looking for a more solid impact like they would get running outside.  As of 7/9/09 NordicTrack had two Reflex deck models.  The Reflex SR and the Apex 8500.  The prices vary drastically from week to week.  That is their marketing strategy.  Watch for current sales.  I usually will alert you on the review page if the price is a bargain.

One of their best programming features is the iFit technology.  It is a series of workout cards that you insert into the treadmill.  It addition to controlling the speed and incline of the machine, it also provides audio coaching.  These workout cards focus on different types of fitness goals like, fat burn, cardio improvment and wellness.  Each card covers a 8-week period. 

iFit technology has become so popular Icon created a separate web site where iFit afficianados can compare notes through forums. 

Icon/NordicTrack took the iFIT technology one step further and now offer a iFit® Virtual Personal Trainer. They will customize workout programs for you over the course of a year and you can download them onto your treadmill.  The exercise routines are designed by certified personal trainers.  Every 8 weeks you'll get a fitness assessment and new updated workout programs.  The price for an entire year is $99, which is not bad when you compare that to hiring a personal trainer. 

If you are looking for that extra motivation that will help you attain your fitness goals, this could be the answer.

You can learn more at iFit® Virtual Personal Trainer.

NordicTrack Commercial 1500
NordicTrack T7 si
NordicTrack Elite XT
NordicTrack A2550

According to the NordicTrack site this sale will last 5 days and it started on Saturday. If you are considering buying, this may be the right time.