The NordicTrack incline trainer is a new twist on the traditional treadmill. Instead of a regular 10 – 15% incline, you get up to 40% inclines (and even decline!)
The benefit to this is that high incline walking on a treadmill burns calories VERY fast – much faster than on a normal incline treadmill.
In fact, according to the manufacturer (and celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels), you can burn up to 5 times the calories on a NordicTrack incline trainer as you can on a regular treadmill.
So you see weight loss results very fast. And you don’t have to run to see these kinds of results either – walking will give you great results as well.
Obviously this has made the incline trainer a very popular type of treadmill. Another benefit is that NordicTrack has made the belts longer than on past models. That means that you can also run on these machines, just like a regular treadmill.
NordicTrack currently makes 3 different models: the X7i, X9i and the X11i (The X3 and X5 models are older and have been discontinued.)
Which one is best for you? Here’s a brief overview of each model and how it differs from the others:
NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer
This is the most affordable trainer coming in around $1600 depending on where you buy it. It still gives you up to 40% incline and even 3% decline.
It also has a very long 60-inch belt to give you extra running room. It comes iFit LIVE compatible (iFit LIVE lets you download new workouts from the internet and run different world trails using Googlemaps).
While it has a backlit console that is large and easy to read, the console is only dual-color.
NordicTrack X9i Incline Trainer
The X9 is the next step up and runs about $1999 – it’s also the most popular incline trainer mainly because you get a lot more than the X7.
You get a full color console (vs a dual color on the X7) with an added web browser. So you can surf the net, watch YouTube videos or catch up on the latest business news as you walk (the X7 has no web browser).
Plus you can also use it with iFit LIVE to see full-color trails as you run world trails – which is very virtual reality.
Another upgrade is that you get a deeper decline than the X7 – up to 6% for better crosstraining. You also get a stronger motor for heavier, more intense workouts.
NordicTrack X11i Trainer
The X11i is the premium model in the series and runs about $300 more than the X9 model. It still carries the popular X9 features like the extra long belt, 40% incline, 6% decline and full color web browser.
But it adds a much stronger motor and an extra long warranty. Basically the X11i is made for very intense workouts, heavier users or multiple user households.
Bottom Line:
So those are the main differences between the different NordicTrack incline trainers. Which one is best for you? This really depends on your goals, budget and personal workout preferences.
But the bottom line is that if you want to see very fast weight loss results – this is one of the best machine on the market (and you can’t beat the entertainment options either!) Good luck and have fun.
The new X9i is one of three NordicTrack Incline Trainer models for 2017. It’s the mid-level option, and it’s a big step up from the entry-level X7i in terms of console electronics. On the other hand, it’s not as powerful as the top-of-the-line X11i. Basically the X9i is a great option for power walking and jogging, and the X11i is the best Incline Trainer for those who frequently train at higher speeds or are especially heavy.
Full price for the new X9i is $2,999 but Incline Trainer discounts of $1,000 or more are common. This model carries a standard five-year parts and electronics warranty and is sold with a money-back guarantee.
NordicTrack Incline Trainer X9i Treadmill – Key Specs:
| Star Rating: | 5-stars |
|---|---|
| Motor: | 3.0 HP |
| Incline: | -6 to 40% |
| Running Area: | 22″ x 60″ |
| Folding: | No |
| Top Speed: | 12 MPH |
| Weight Capacity: | 300 LBS |
| Dimensions: | 70.2″ L x 39.6″ W x 71.6″ H |
| Built-In Programs: | 44 |
What We Don’t Like:
- The Price: Full price for the X9i, $2,999, puts the machine outside of many shoppers’ budgets. If the machine isn’t on sale today, just practice a bit of patience. With NordicTrack’s frequent online specials you can order this unit for $1,999 or less.
Our Verdict:
The X9i for 2017 is one of the year’s best cardio trainers for serious walkers. It shares many specs with high-end treadmills, lets you make the most of your time with super-efficient calorie burn, and has lots of extras for motivation and training guidance. If you plan to train at higher speeds though, the X11i could serve you better in the long run. Each model of Incline Trainer carries a great warranty package and is an excellent value when on sale.
