The NordicTrack fitness brand debuted in 1989 during the heyday of infomercials. That year, millions of Americans first saw the intense calorie-burning NordicTrack ski machine in action. Since then, the brand has been expanded to include treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes, and other fitness products.
Special Features of NordicTrack Fitness Equipment
» iFit Live is included on the newer NordicTrack bikes, incline trainers, and other gym equipment. This unique technology offers virtual personal training with Jillian Michaels from TV’s The Biggest Loser, so each user can be guided toward individualized goals. iFit even lets users compete in treadmill races with their Facebook friends and virtually hike through Yosemite National Park and other popular destinations.
» Full color screens help keep exercisers motivated. NordicTrack’s advanced consoles look just like personal computer screens. They display motivational messages, fitness games, fitness videos, virtual hikes powered by Google Maps, and more.
» Audio entertainment centers on NordicTracks include iPod docks and high fidelity speaker sets.
» Compact design is used on several models. The A.C.T. Commercial Elliptical is just 47” long, and the NordicTrack Reflex 8500 Pro Treadmill folds up to save space. The brand’s classic skier can also be adjusted to take up little space.
Another NordicTrack Brand Advantage: Popularity
NordicTrack is now owned by Icon Health and Fitness, one of the world’s largest producers of fitness equipment. This means that the equipment is well-distributed and well-known throughout the US and Canada. You can buy NordicTrack products online and rest assured that there’s a knowledgeable technician in your area if ever needed. The brand recognition also means that resale value is relatively high if you decide to trade up.
NordicTrack Equipment Lines
Treadmills – Treadmills are among the most popular fitness machines in the world, and customers tend to give NordicTrack treadmills five-star ratings. They like their inclines, commercial-grade motors, cushioned tracks, and 7” flat-screen TVs. The newer NordicTrack treadmills are also equipped with iFit technology for virtual personal training and exercising with Google Maps technology. The brand’s current treadmill lineup includes 12 models, so there’s something for everyone.
Incline Trainers – NordicTrack incline trainers are endorsed by “America’s Toughest Trainer,” Jillian Michaels, because they burn up to five times the calories expended during traditional training. At the same time, NordicTrack incline trainers are designed to be low-impact and easy on the joints.
These can reach speeds of up to 12 mph and are available with iFit Live. Of the brand’s three current models, two feature extra-long tread belts and a variable decline in addition to the incline.
Elliptical Machines – NordicTrack elliptical trainers stand out for offering good value and innovative features. Consumers benefit from Icon Fitness’s large economy of scale, getting more machine for less money. Several models can even be folded to save space in smaller homes. However, there have been complaints about noise for some of these machines, especially when they’re used by heavier individuals.
There are eight NordicTrack elliptical models, and each has appealing features. The FreeStrider 35 Si stands out in particular because of its extra-long variable stride.
NordicTrack bikes – NordicTrack’s current offerings include two upright stationary bikes and two recumbent stationary bikes. Recumbent bikes may be especially recommended to people with back pain or joint problems. Special features of NordicTrack bicycles include iFit compatibility, music ports, built-in fitness games, and up to 30 built-in personal trainer workouts.
NordicTrack Strength Training Equipment
NordicTrack’s diverse line of strength training equipment includes two full sets of weights, two vibrating platforms, and two all-in-one gym products that are “As Seen on TV.”
NordicTrack Striders
The NordicTrack FreeStrider series includes two elliptical trainer models with incredible 35” variable strides. These let users exercise a wide variety of muscle groups, always using a full range of motion.
Another option in the strider category is the Mini Stepper, an inexpensive portable machine that tones the buns, thighs, and calves.
NordicTrack Skiers
Despite all their modern developments, NordicTrack still rightfully takes pride in its Classic Pro Skier with its sturdy oak and steel design. They advertise that after 20 years, “it’s still the best total-body, calorie burning workout available.” These machines have adjustable elevations and variable resistance, so they can help an exerciser burn calories quickly. They’re also great for muscle toning and cardiovascular fitness. Exercise data are displayed in five LED windows.
Drawbacks of NordicTrack Fitness Equipment
Shorter warranties – Many NordicTrack ellipticals, treadmills, and other products include just 1-year warranties. Longer warranties are usually offered on big purchases. However, free in-home service is provided if something should go wrong during the first year.
Wireless requirement – To enjoy many of iFit’s special features, the user needs to have wireless internet technology in the workout area.
Size — Some NordicTrack equipment is cleverly designed for small spaces and portability. However, some of the brand’s elliptical machines and treadmills have large footprints, so be sure to check a machine’s dimensions before ordering.