NordicTrack Treadmill Reviews

NordicTrack is the premium treadmill brand of Icon Fitness, which is the world’s largest treadmill manufacturer. They make other popular models like ProForm, FreeMotion, and Reebok.

We’ve visited the NordicTrack headquarters in Logan, UT several times. They have an impressive operation. This is one of the few treadmill companies that actually builds their machines in the U.S.A. The company has approximately 5,000 employees and a massive manufacturing and corporate complex. 

Why Consider a NordicTrack Treadmill?

You may have heard of NordicTrack before and wondered, what’s all the hype about? Sure, they have a popular brand name – but what really sets them apart from other brands in the industry? 

Over the years, our team has met with various directors, managers and VPs from the company, and overall have been impressed with their focus. They devote considerable resources into the construction, design and innovation of NordicTrack treadmills. In fact, they have a room designed to mechanically abuse their machines. Heavy weights are continually dropped on the deck and motors are run at high speeds for hundreds of hours.

One of the major focuses of NordicTrack treadmills is innovation, and this is where they excel. Their iFit technology, adjustable cushion decks, full color displays with Internet browser, and incline trainers are several reasons why NordicTrack is so popular.

iFit – Run the World

iFit.com was originally founded back in 1989, and the application has made huge developmental strides since then. Today, iFit is a world-renowned interactive personal training technology. This software is available exclusively from machines made by the parent company Icon, which will be the brands NordicTrack and ProForm. In recent years, iFit has gained an immense amount of traction and popularity among users.

The premise behind the iFit program is to help users better track their fitness activity to be able to make more improved progress overall toward their unique fitness goals. Research has proven time and time again that those who keep track of their fitness progress have better results long-term. A recent participation study found that the participants who utilized a fitness tracker for 12 weeks were more likely to increase their levels of physical activity for years to come (1). In addition, using an interactive fitness technology like iFit will allow users to keep their workout routine fresh and new.

In the fitness world, there is a workout principle known as SAID. This acronym stands for Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demand. Essentially, this principle means that our human bodies adapt specifically to imposed demands. What does that mean for your workout routine? If we keep going through our fitness journey and simple keep on doing the same old exercises and routines, eventually our bodies will adapt, and we will reach a plateau. Using iFit helps to alleviate this problem by always keeping a wide variety of workouts available to users of the program.

How Does iFit Work?

iFit is available for access on all NordicTrack and ProForm fitness equipment. When you purchase your machine, you’ll be able to use iFit directly from your treadmill screen. There is a mobile app so that users can connect their account to both their exercise equipment as well as their mobile device. This will allow users to access workouts as well as community support and fitness tracking from anywhere.

*Note: WiFi connection is required for iFit capabilities.

What Can iFit Do?

Previously, there have been many different names for iFit, and the features have varied from machine to machine. The technology is now all under one category, and the features have been amped up, too!

World Class Personal Trainers

Users will have unlimited access to over 130 world-class personal trainers. Different trainers specialize in different workout categories. Not only are the trainer’s industry professionals, but during your workout your personal trainer will be able to make automatic adjustments for you. Trainers are able to guide you and challenge you by adjusting your machine speed, incline, and resistance. The days of having to leave your house and go to the gym to have access to your own personal trainer are gone. Enjoy all the perks of using a trainer right in the comfort of your own home.

Variety of Workout Categories

If you thought using iFit meant only being able to work on your walking or running capabilities… think again. There are many different categories to choose from. Some of the options include walking, running, cross-training, strength, yoga, cycling, rowing, and recovery. There’s something for everyone at every fitness level.

Live and On-Demand Workout Options

Want to work out in a live studio class? Or would you rather browse through an on-demand workout library and choose the class that you’re feeling that day? With iFit, you have the option to do both. Users can choose to get their heart pumping at anywhere and at any time from an ever-growing workout class library.

Or, if you’re in the mood for a live class – trainers are available for scheduled live classes on treadmill machines and the tablet version of the iFit app. During the live workouts, users can text their trainer during the live class so that your personal trainer can respond to you in real time if you have a question or need fitness advice. The live workouts give users a more personable experience with their trainers, as trainers can choose to host a class from the comfort of their home, or even on their favorite neighborhood path. In addition, enjoy some friendly competition during live classes with a live workout leaderboard.

Take Your Workouts Global

Working out from home on a treadmill may sound less than glamorous to you, but the exercise variety and the scenery options will keep you motivated, educated, and entertained! iFit is integrated with Google Maps Technology. This integration will allow users to take their workout virtually anywhere across the globe. Get your sweat on with breathtaking views and watch your workout fly by as you take in the new and exciting landscapes with your personal trainer.

Series Training

If you have a difficult time sticking to a workout routine, don’t worry, you definitely are not alone. In fact, according to recent studies only about 19% of the United States population engages in sports or physical exercise on a daily basis (2). The series training offered from iFit are perfect for those of us who need consistent motivation and a scheduled program to be able to stick to. There are over 140+ workout series to choose from. The series vary in intensity, workout type, duration, and scenery.

In-Depth Fitness Tracking

The technology keeps a detailed overview of your workout statistics and progress. During your workout, you can keep track of details like heart rate (BPM), heart rate zones, average speed, max speed, and more. When you access your account on the app, it’s easy to track your progress over time to see how far you’ve come when you’re able to look back on training statistics from all of your previous workouts.

Community Access

Staying motivated in your fitness journey is not an easy task, and it’s even more difficult when you’re trying to do it alone. The iFit app offers a community support group exclusively for members, so that you’re able to communicate with others who are on the same journey to health that you are. Community will help you stay motivated, inspired, and accountable.

How Much Does iFit Cost?

Most machines from NordicTrack and Proform offer a 30-day free trial of the iFit application so that users are able to test it out. After the free trial is over if you choose to continue your membership, the cost is $39/month. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option for a fitness technology that you can use at home, we suggest checking out Sole Treadmills with their interactive Studio technology.

Is NordicTrack iFit Worth It?

If you are someone who enjoys workouts that are led by world renowned coaches and would benefit from a community that can encourage you and keep you accountable in your fitness journey, iFit will be a good investment to add on to your NordicTrack treadmill purchase. 

Which NordicTrack Treadmill is Best?

There are many great choices available to choose from when it comes to NordicTrack treadmills. Check out this comparison chart to help determine which treadmill from NordicTrack will be the best fit for your body and your budget. Keep on reading to browse in-depth reviews of each individual machine.

NordicTrack Treadmill Comparison Chart

NordicTrack Commercial Treadmill Reviews

The treadmills in the Commercial line from NordicTrack include the 1750, and 2450 machines. These treadmills are designed to be able to withstand the mileage from the most dedicated runners with commercial-quality features.

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Review

Typically priced around $1,600, this treadmill out-specs the competition. A trusted consumer review magazine has given the Commercial 1750 a “Best Buy” review, with excellent ratings in the categories of ergonomics and exercise range. Some of the top features on the 1750 include:

3.5 Continuous Duty HP Motor — This is a powerful motor for a treadmill and should run effortlessly at even the highest speeds.

22″ x 60″ Running Surface — It should be noted that most manufacturers rate the length by treadbelt. What they don’t tell you is that 1-3” is covered by shrouds. The 60” length is the actual length on the Commercial 1750. In addition, they increased the width of the belt to 22”, giving you more comfort space as you run.

Runner Flex Adjustable Cushioning Deck — The Runner Flex deck is designed to absorb the shock of your impact while providing an energy return when you lift off. NordicTrack claims this patented design allows you to exercise longer. Our perception is that it provides excellent shock absorption. Since some runners prefer less shock absorption, the Runner Flex deck allows you to reduce the cushioning to simulate running outside on a harder surface. This is especially nice if you have varied cushion preferences in your household.

3% Decline — With the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 you can simulate running up and down hills, which allows you to stimulate and tone different muscles groups. It inclines up to 15% and declines to 3%. This feature further enhances your experience running up and down hills with iFit. 

10″ Smart HD Touchscreen — The color display is much more visually appealing than your typical one-color LCD or LED display. 

Two 3” Digitally-Amplified Speakers — NordicTrack offers one of the best built-in sound systems in the industry. It has a sound clarity not found on other brands. You also can take advantage of their Bluetooth audio capabilities and play your favorite jams through your treadmill speakers.

Two Cooling Fan Options – This machine has two separate fans to provide cooling during your workout. An oversized Autobreeze fan is located on the console to target you core. It auto-adjusts according to the speed of your workout. A second fan located on the accessory tray provides another auto-adjusting option so you can stay cool during your workout.

Other Features — 81.25” L x 39.25” W x 62.75” H dimensions, 300 Lb. user weight limit, OneTouch controls for quick incline/speed changes, SpaceSaver Design with EasyLift Assist to make folding a breeze, Integrated tray, Android 9 OS, 2.5” rollers, EKG grip pulse, 0-12 MPH speed

Warranty — The Commercial 1750 treadmill has 10-year frame, 2-year parts, and 1-year labor warranty.

The Commercial 1750 was long awaited to hit the market. We received this comment from the company:

Just so you know, the reason we waited so long to put the Commercial 1750 on sale was to make sure that everything was working shamelessly.  We have always thought that treadmill would be our best and we did not want to release it until it had been tested more than any other treadmill. In fact, it was put through over 2 months of testing, 3 weeks (504 hrs.) of pound testing (meaning we pounded the deck with 475 lbs. of force, over 1 million times), 200 hrs. of human testing, 4 months (1000 hrs.) of console testing and that includes white noise, software checks, console functionality and static electricity charges. A grand total of 1704 hours of testing. I think that makes for a pretty good story and is why we can offer such a good warranty.

NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill Review

NEW FOR 2022!

The “middle child” of the Commercial Treadmill series is the 2450. We usually see this machine priced just around $2,500. To attest to the quality of this machine, a prominent consumer magazine gave the 2450 excellent ratings in the categories of ergonomics, construction, and exercise range. 

The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 treadmill combines a serious exercise machine with features that take the monotony out of running in place. Best of all, the 2022 edition of this treadmill comes jam packed with updates. Some of the most impressive features include: 

3.6 CHP DurX Motor – Let’s just say – this is a bit of an overkill for a motor in a residential treadmill.  No matter how much you abuse this motor, it will take it and more.

22” x 60” Treadbelt – The Commercial 2450 has an extra wide 22″ treadbelt with a 60” length that gives you a nice comfortable zone for long running strides and interval training.

NEW FOR 2022! 22” Tilt and Pivot Smart HD Touchscreen – The touchscreen is designed to be able to tilt and pivot to meet you wherever you are during your workout.

15% Incline & 3% Decline – This gives you the ability to simulate running up and down hills.  It further enhances the experience of running with Google Maps integration through iFit.

Two 3” Digitally Amplified Speakers, Bluetooth Headphone Connectivity – NordicTrack offers some of the best sound systems installed on a treadmill.  Many treadmill companies cheap out on the speakers and they are barely audible.

Adjustable Shock Absorption – We’re not sure about the logic of this feature.  You can turn off the shock absorption so you can simulate running on asphalt, which doesn’t make a lot of sense, since one of the major benefits of running on a treadmill is the reduced impact to your body.  However, some people prefer a firmer running surface. The deck is designed with NordicTrack’s RunnersFlex Cushioning technology.

Other Features – 81.2” L x 39.2” W x 59.2” H footprint, 300 lb. user weight limit, ActivePulse monitoring, EasyLift Assist for easier folding, integrated tray, 2.5” rollers, OneTouch controls to safely change incline and speed during exercise, 0-12 MPH speed, dual workout fans 

Warranty – The coverage is similar to other treadmills at this price range; 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor.

NordicTrack Commercial Incline Treadmill Reviews

The Commercial Incline Series of treadmills from NordicTrack are made for those who are up for a challenge. These machines offer 40% inclines to simulate climbing hills, challenging hiking trails, and adventurous runs. The Incline series features the popular X22i and X32i treadmills.

Our team has tested several Commercial Incline Trainers and we can vouch for the effectiveness of the incline workouts. On top of our opinion, we know for a fact that NordicTrack employees view these machines as favorites.  The NordicTrack incline treadmills are primarily for walking and help deliver effective workouts without subjecting your joints to excess stress and strain. 

NordicTrack X22i Commercial Incline Treadmill Review

The X22i has consistently been one of the most popular treadmills among consumers from NordicTrack. It’s normally priced around $3,000.

The X22i incline trainer comes loaded with some impressive features.

Next-Gen Sled Push – The Commercial x22i Incline Treadmill features the addition of the Next-Gen Sled Push feature. Sled push workouts have gained major popularity for being a full-body blasting workout in addition to your cardio. They involve literally pushing a weighted sled in front of you for a certain distance.

NordicTrack has sought to replicate that particular workout on a treadmill. The added push bar and sled grips place your hand and body in position to properly perform the exercise. From there you simply put the treadmill at 1.0 mph and push your workout yourself.

22″ Smart HD Touchscreen – At 22-inches, this touchscreen provides a totally immersive experience.  Using the iFit, you can view landscapes around the world while you work out.  Google Maps also lets you observe the street view if you choose a more familiar route.  The machine will sync to your route’s terrain with increases and decreases in incline percentage. You can easily switch between your workout route and your stats with the easy swipe of a finger.

3.6 Continuous Duty HP Motor – This is a monster motor that will easily handle almost all users without straining.

22″ x 60″ Treadbelt – A 60″ belt is not uncommon in this price range, but you should take notice to the width.  This is an extra wide belt that will make your exercise service feel spacious.

Reflex Cushioning – The X22i comes with the most cushioned deck from NordicTrack. This is a lower impact cushioned deck that decreases impact. This will allow you to run faster and for longer amounts of time without compromising the safety of your joints.

Ability to Incline and Decline – The X22i goes from -6% all the way up to 40% incline.  A decline feature is attractive because it lets you better simulate both up and down hills while you work out on virtual courses.  Plus, this helps you target additional muscles in your lower body.

Other Features – 70” L x 39” W x 72.5” H Footprint, 2.5” rollers, two 3” speakers, Android 9OS, 300 lb. weight limit, dual workout fans, OneTouch speed and incline controls, 0-12 MPH speed

Warranty – 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor. Again, this is not an impressive warranty for the price in our opinion.

NordicTrack X32i Commercial Incline Treadmill Review

Priced for around $1,000 more than the X22i, this model has everything we love about the Commercial Incline series with some big upgrades. 

If you are looking for an incline trainer with all of the bells and whistles, NordicTrack has you covered with the NordicTrack X32i Commercial Incline Treadmill features.

4.25 Continuous Duty HP Motor – NordicTrack loves to put monster motors on their machines.  The huge 4.25 CHP motor means that this machine can handle anything you are ready to dish out. The extreme inclines on these machines require a motor that can keep up and this one definitely does the trick.

22” x 65” Treadbelt – This is an upgrade that will have your workout feeling comfortable and never cramped. The other incline trainer models sport a 60” length on their treadbelts. The Commercial x32i boasts an additional 5 inches of length. Even the tallest of users will find that they are able to use this comfortably, without ever worrying about a long stride. With some of the other incline trainers on the market, buyers have complained that they lose 5″ of length when the deck is lowered.  This is because part of the deck lowers underneath the console.  You won’t have a length issue with the x32i Incline Trainer. Quite frankly, this is the LARGEST treadbelt we’ve ever seen on a treadmill.

2.5” Precision and Balanced Non-Flex Rollers – The larger rollers on the Commercial X32i will keep your machine running smoothly for longer. Larger rollers mean that there is less wear and tear on the machine, which means less maintenance for you.

40% Incline – The giant 40% incline on the Commercial X32i is the reason this machine delivers a killer workout. You don’t need to be doing anything other than walking at these extreme inclines to get your heart pumping and your muscles firing. These incline settings are the same on the X22i.

-6% Decline – Anyone who has ever walked or run down a hill knows that this makes a world of difference. This decline allows you to work a whole different set of muscle groups than walking on a flat surface or propelling yourself uphill.

32” Smart HD Touchscreen – As expected, we see a major upgrade in the technology department with this massive 32” HD touchscreen. This is the largest screen found on any cardio fitness equipment that you are going to find. In fact, some other machines have a very small screen that is hard to view.  You won’t have this problem with the x32i Incline Trainer.  The crystal-clear graphics and interactive technology make for an even more immersive experience when used with your iFit subscription. Most of the price tag on this machine is due to this large touchscreen.  If you are happier with a smaller screen, consider the X22i instead.

Next-Gen Sled Push – If you’re looking to incorporate something new into your workout on the Commercial x32i, try a sled push workout. The addition of the sled grips and push bar make it easy to do this whole-body workout in your home. A sled push involves pushing a weighted sled and set distance along the ground and requires your whole body to do. With the Commercial x32i Incline Trainer all you need to do it place your hands in the set position, set your speed to 1 mph and reap the benefits of this intense workout.

Other Features – 76.5” L x 40” W x 73” H Footprint, two 3” speakers, Bluetooth headphone connectivity, Android 9OS, 300 lb. weight limit, dual workout fans, OneTouch speed and incline controls, Reflex cushioning deck, 0-12 MPH speed

Warranty – 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor. For the monster that this treadmill is, we would expect to see a better warranty. 

NordicTrack EXP Treadmill Reviews

The EXP series of treadmills for NordicTrack are considered their line of budget-friendly machines. This line of treadmills was previously known as their “T-Series”, and recently was updated to be known as the EXP series. These treadmills are your standard entry-level machines. You still get many of the bells and whistles that are associated with NordicTrack treadmills, but at a more residential price point. The 3 treadmills you’ll find in this series are the EXP7i, EXP10i, and EXP14i. 

NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill Review

The most budget friendly option out of the three is the EXP 7i treadmill. Typically priced around $1,300, the EXP 7i comes packed with features that anyone will appreciate – from those looking for casual cardio all the way to avid runners.

3.0 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor – This is a powerful, quality motor that is pretty standard for this price range. This motor has a SMART-Response drive system which allows for reduced vibration and self-cooling.

20” x 60” Treadbelt – This is pretty standard for the EXP machines from NordicTrack. The 60″ length is going to make the EXP 7i comfortable for tall users and those with a longer running stride. The deck is designed with the FlexSelect cushioning from NordicTrack to lessen joint impact.

0-12% Incline – This incline is nothing to look over. The 12% incline capability is high enough that you will really be able to challenge yourself during your workout. 

0-12 MPH – A standard top speed for treadmills is typically 10 MPH, so a top speed of 12 MPH is great for those who don’t want to be limited while exercising. With incline and speed ranges like this, you’ll always be able to keep pushing yourself further. 

7” Smart HD Touchscreen – A 7″ display screen is not huge, but it will be sufficient for most people. 

Other Features –77.3” L x 35.3” W x 59.6” H footprint, 300 lb. weight limit, 1.9” rollers, Two 2” speakers, Bluetooth® capabilities, fan, EasyLift™ Assist, Integrated tray

Warranty – 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill Review

The EXP10i treadmill is normally priced around $300 more than the EXP 7i machine. It comes with a few upgraded features to justify the price jump. For a budget treadmill, the specs on this machine do not disappoint.

3.5 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor – This is a really powerful motor that will be able to handle miles of use, from light walking to avid running. This motor features their SMART-Response Drive System that enables self-cooling and reduced vibration of the motor.

20” x 60” Treadbelt – The standard treadbelt size that we see is 20″ x 55″. Although it may not seem like much, the extra 5″ makes a difference. The 60″ length will make this machine more comfortable for tall users and those with a longer running stride.

Incline AND Decline – A decline feature is something we do not see much on a treadmill at this price point. The EXP 10i allows you to go from -3% decline to 12% incline to mimic going up and down hills. This will take your HIIT workouts to a whole different level.

0-12 MPH – A top speed of 12 MPH is nothing to look over. Most treadmills will max out at 10 MPH, so if you want to have the option to push yourself during your workouts – this is a really great feature. 

FlexSelect™ Cushioning – The cushioning on the EXP 10i is designed to mimic running on a real road surface and soften the impact on your joints.

10” Smart HD Touchscreen – A 10″ display screen will be sufficient for most people. It’s certainly not the largest that we see out there, but it is a good size for the price point of the EXP 10i. Although it’s not a giant screen, the 10″ SMART Touchscreen will enable you to take advantage of your 30-day iFit membership that’s included with your machine purchase.

Other Features –79.9” L x 35.08” W x 59.25” H footprint, 300 lb. weight limit, 1.9” rollers, Two 2” speakers, Bluetooth® capabilities, fan, EasyLift™ Assist, Integrated tray

Warranty – 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill Review

NEW FOR 2022!

The latest launch in the EXP series is the 14i treadmill. Once again, it’s normally priced around $300 more than the EXP 10i. The EXP 14i provides features and performance that even an avid runner will appreciate. This machine really checks all the boxes. 

3.5 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor – This is a powerful, quality motor for a machine in this price range. The 3.5 CHP motor will be able to handle even those users that really like to put in the miles. This motor is also self-cooling and reduces vibration to ensure quiet, smooth use every single time you step on.

20” x 60” Treadbelt – This is the standard treadbelt size for most treadmills in this series and it is nice to see the 60” length. The additional 5 inches from the 55″ standard is going to make this very comfortable for taller users and those with a longer stride. The belt is equipped with a FlexSelect cushioned deck to mimic a road-running experience and dampen impact. 

300 lb. Recommended Weight Limit – The weight limit on this machine speaks to its quality construction and sturdy design. This also means that larger users are able to use the EXP 14i to reach their fitness goals.

-3% Decline-12% Incline – This is a solid feature to find on any treadmill. The ability to both decline and incline will allow you to simulate going uphill and downhill. This feature gives not only an extra cardio challenge, but it will allow you to target additional muscles in your legs while exercising as well. 

0-12 MPH – A top speed of 12 mph means that you will never have to hold back because your machine can’t keep up. Speed training is a breeze on the EXP 14i and provides you with yet another way to push yourself as your skills improve.

ActivePulse Heart Rate Monitoring – This feature is exclusive to the EXP 14i. The ActivePulse monitoring will listen to your heart and allow you to maintain your optimal heart rate zone during exercise. Note: Utilizing this feature requires the SmartBeat forearm monitor that is sold separately from NordicTrack. However, if you are interested in heart rate training, this is a nice feature. 

14” Smart HD Touchscreen – You may be getting used to seeing advertisements for giant 30” screens on treadmills, but that’s not really what the EXP14i about. The 14” screen on this model may not be huge, but it will provide you exactly what you need to take advantage of all that your iFit subscription has to offer.

Other Features –79.9” L x 35.08” W x 59.25” H footprint, 300 lb. weight limit, 1.9” rollers, Two 2” speakers, Bluetooth® capabilities, Fan, EasyLift™ Assist, Integrated tray, integrated device shelf, EKG grip pulse

Warranty – 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

Are NordicTrack Treadmills Worth the Money?

In short – yes. Because of the sheer volume of sales, NordicTrack and their parent company, Icon Fitness, can offer some excellent value. It should be noted that many of the major components like motors, belts and rollers and developed in house and are built specifically for their products. This compares to other fitness equipment manufacturers that typically buy components off the shelf.

What is the LifeSpan of a NordicTrack treadmill?

According to manufacturers, the average expectancy of a residential treadmill is around 10 years. When comparing specs you will find NordicTrack has some of the largest and most powerful motors for the price. Their motors go through stringent testing for fail safe, sound immunity and brush life. In general, they provide higher output at cooler temperatures and are backed with a lifetime warranty. We’ve seen their test room where they torture the motors to verify their durability. 

Is NordicTrack Reliable?

NordicTrack has been around for over 40 years. However, like the American auto industry, NordicTrack has redefined itself in the last several years. In the process it has become a dominating force in the treadmill industry. That is due to the fact the company offers quality machines with some very innovative features at a valued price.

In general, the competition does not have the financial resources to compete at this level. There are companies that build treadmills comparable in quality, but none can match the specs and features found on most NordicTrack models.

Sources

2. RunnersWorld (2019)
3. Statista (2021)

This article was written by Brook Norris and published on Monday, 10 January 2022.