The NordicTrack X7i incline trainer is the most affordable version of the popular incline trainer treadmills. Incline trainers are popular for one main reason: they give you up to a 40% incline.
And this high incline walk practically burns calories. In fact, according to the manufacturer, you can burn 5 times more calories on an incline trainer than on a flat treadmill.
So people who are looking to lose weight very fast like this type of treadmills. The X7 is a bit more streamlined and simpler than the X9i or X11i models.
So is it right for you? Here is a review of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Pro #1 High incline and decline
This is the main benefit of the X7. You can go from 0 to 40% incline, or anywhere in between, to incorporate calorie-burning intervals into your workout.
The X7i incline trainer also has a 3% decline option to add even more of a cross-training challenge to your workout.
Pro #2 Extra Long Belt
The problem with older incline trainers like the X3, for example, was that the belts were made too short. That made sense at the time, since the incline trainer was originally only intended for walkers.
But a lot of people wanted to run on these machines. After all, they are like a treadmill, but with a very high incline.
So NordicTrack lengthened the belt on the X7i to 60 inches. This gives you plenty of room to run or stretch.
Pro #3 Backlit Console
The console is two-color and easy to read. There is a scrolling message board that guides you through the next steps for your workout.
There’s also an iPod dock with speakers so you can listen to your favorite tunes. And a dual-speed console fan to keep you cool.
Tablet Holder Pro #4
NordicTrack has added a new tablet mount above the console to this year’s new model. You can connect your tablet and watch your favorite shows or movies on the go.
This adds even more entertainment options to the mix that will make your workouts go faster.
Pro #5 iFit LIVE
The NordicTrack X7i incline trainer is compatible with iFit LIVE. iFit LIVE connects to the Internet and you can easily track your workouts over time or download new workouts to your treadmill.
Plus, you can also run famous trails around the world, from Paris to Hawaii, and watch real-life landmarks go by.
Keep in mind though that since the console is only two colors on this machine, if you want to use this feature you have to connect to iFit with your tablet and view it that way.
Pro #6 Free Wireless Heart Rate Monitor
As of this writing, the X7i incline trainer also comes with a free wireless heart rate monitor. Many people prefer the wireless chest strap as it tends to give you more accurate results.
Those are the pros, and the cons?
With #1 Two Color Console
The X7i incline trainer only has a two-color console, while the X9 or X11 models have a full-color console with a web browser. And you can use this web browser to connect to iFit to view scenery on the console screen with these models.
So unless you have a tablet to use with iFit on the X7i treadmill, you’ll lose the iFit scenario with the X7, while you won’t with the X9 or X11.
With #2 Less decrease
The X9 and X11 give you a deeper 6% decline, while you only get 3% with the X7i model.
With #3 it does not fold
Due to design limitations, the Incline Trainer X7i does not fold.
Those are the main advantages and disadvantages of the NordicTrack X7i incline trainer. Overall, it’s a bit simpler than the X9i or X11 models, but it’s also about $400 less. So in the end it really depends on what is most important to you.
No matter what you decide, make sure to go slow and listen to your body. And if you’re new to exercise, be sure to check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. Good luck!