NordicTrack Reflex 8500 Pro Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

With the NordicTrack Reflex 8500 Pro Treadmill, you get a iFit Live compatibily, a 7" fulll color touch screen and premium sound system, combined with one of the most forgiving decks in the industry — The Reflex Deck.

I recently tested the Reflex 8500 Pro treadmill at the corporate headquarters of Icon Fitness, and was very impressed. This is an ideal treadmill for someone that wants a low impact workout, while being entertained.

Note: As of 7/29/10 the NordicTrack Reflex 8500 Pro was selling for $1,999. Worth less. Go to www.NordicTrack.com to learn more.

The Reflex Deck is an arc-shape wooden deck designed to reduce impact by nearly 40% compared to running outside. If you go to their site, you can see a demonstration. You'll notice that the deck bounces more than normal — it actually springs back. The theory behind the design is to provide an energy retaining system that allows you to workout longer.

Some users may find the spring action undesirable, but most of the customer reviews are very positive. Below are a couple of comments:

"After trying this treadmill for about two minutes, I was HOOKED!. The Reflex Deck acts somewhat like a trampoline, propelling your every step and greatly reducing the stress on knees (mine are bad anyway) and ankles."

"The deck is what Nordic Track calls a reflex deck. This makes life much easier on your joints while walking and running. I also like the feel of the reflex decks much better than the standard cushioned decks under my feet. The decks that have the cushioning under the belt can feel like you are sinking when you step down. The reflex deck gives you a springing feeling. In my opinion it feels much more natural."

The Reflex 8500 Pro Reflex deck should be particularly appealing to individuals suffering from injuries to their ankles, knees and lower back.

It is important to note when I first saw the deck on the Reflex 8500 Pro I was concerned about the durability, because visually the deck didn't appear all that thick. However, it is made of solid poplar wood, the same wood used in snow boards. The fact is this deck can withstand a beating, and according to the folks at NordicTrack there have been virtually no problems with cracking.

Other features on the NordicTrack Reflex 8500 Pro include:

iFit Live Compatible — With iFit Live you can make the Reflex 8500 Pro interactive with iFit.com and Google Maps.  Through iFit.com you define your profile and set your fitness goals and iFit live will download personal workout that control the speed and incline of the machine.  You also will get audio coaching from fitness professionals like Jillian Michaels. There are a number of additional interactive program through iFit.com that can assist you in reaching your fitness goals.

In addition to customized workouts iFit Live can interact with Google Maps.  You can defines routes on Google Maps and your NordicTrack will simulate the terrain by increasing or decreasing the incline.  I have no idea how they do that, but it is a cool concept.  You can visual the route through Google Maps either by a map, street or satellite view through the use of a laptop.

7" Full Color Touch Screen Display — The screen displays your workout progress with a Google Map™ and you can view the landmarks on the full-color display. "Select your favorite route from built-in workouts. Run the Delicate Arch Trail at Arches National Park, the Diamond Head Trail in Hawaii and more while you view the landmarks on the full-color display." Also built into the console is a cooling fan.

Intermix Acoustic Sound System. This is the best sound system built into a treadmill. It comes with 3" high-excursion drivers". You'll be rockin as you're running. You can plug in your MP3, and other popular audio inputs.

20"x 60" extra long treadbelt. This length is ideal for runners and tall users. When you run on a 54" belt, you often feel you are falling off the end.

3.5 HP continuous duty motor. This motor will provide adequate power to handle running at higher speed, without straining. It is ideal for multiple users, or extensive use.

The warranty includes lifetime motor coverage. There is a 2-yers parts and 1-yr labor warranty.

Our Review - NordicTrack Reflex 8500 Pro Treadmill

This is the perfect treadmill for someone who is looking for a low-impact machine that also motivates with iFit Live. If you are suffering from injuries or strains, you'll appreciate the shock absorption. The intereaction with iFit and the sound system makes your treadmill workout more appealing. Also, this is one of the most attractive treadmills on the market, the finished poplar wooden deck is very eye appealing.

When I was at their corporate office, they mentioned that besides being one of their more popular treadmills, the Reflex 8500 Pro has an excellent service record — an very important factor when considering any fitness equipment.

Go to www.NordicTrack.com to learn more.