NordicTrack Incline Trainer X11i Review

I chose NordicTrack Incline Trainer X11i to replace for my old NordicTrack X9i Incline Trainer Treadmill when it was broken down after long time of use. Until now I have been satisfied with the best things it brought to me. Here is my feeling about this great product.

NordicTrack Incline Trainer X11i - Pros & Cons

NordicTrack Incline Trainer X11i Description

Firstly, I want to provide you with some details of this product before giving my reviews on it.

Motor

This incline trainer has a heavy-duty 4.25 CHP DurX™ commercial pro motor which is a nice update from the 3.0 CHP motor in the X9i. It delivers smooth performance, strong power, and quiet operation at even top speed up to 12 MPH. The motor is designed to withstand even the most rigorous workout sessions.

Incline and decline

This machine is a favorite choice for hikers because it allows them to simulate walking up/down hills and mountains because it can incline to 40 degrees and decline to -6 degrees. It also helps trainee burn five times more calories than they could do by only training on a flat surface as well as targets numerous lower body muscles.

Tread belt

It comes with a 2-Ply and wide commercial tread belt that is measured at 20” x 62”. This is typical tread belt size of treadmills used for running. It is wide and long enough for even tall runners to stretch their strides comfortably. Moreover, it is equipped with a Reflex™ Cushioning system to enhance the comfort for trainee’s strides.

Display

The NordicTrack X11i has a 10-inch touchscreen monitor which shows all the built-in training programs and user’s workout stats. Plus, it is also fully web-enabled to allow you to check surf the web, watch videos, your email, and lots more.

Workout Programs

With a wide selection of built-in workout apps, trainee can get the training he wants or trains according to his objective. 44 built-in programs are designed to help user enhance strength, lose calories, speed training, or tone muscles while the X7i model only has 38. Each program can adjust the trainer’s speed, incline and angle of the track from -6% to 40%.

iFit technology

The machine is also iFit enabled like other high-end models to simulate different running routes and terrains making user’s workout programs more ample. It is also used for online data management.

Heart Rate Monitor

The X11i gives two options for heart rate monitoring. Dual CardioGrip sensors are built into both handlebars. And a wireless chest strap is included to give trainee accurate heart rate readings to improve and enhance the efficiency of their workout.

Dimensions and Weight

The treadmill is measured at 73"" L X 38"" W X 69"" and weighs around 350 lbs. with this size and weight, it is rather hard for users to move it around without the support of foldable feature or wheels.

NordicTrack Incline Trainer X11i Review

Comfort

The long and wide tread belt of the incline trainer gives me enough space to perform in. It does not restrict my movement and at the same time gives me a feeling of running outdoors. Plus, this surface provides a smooth, comfortable run thanks to a Reflex™ Cushioning system equipped on it. This system not only offers smooth and comfortable stride but it also helps reduce impact and tension on ankles, joints, and back.

In fact, since using Nordic Track’s machine, I have never felt back or joint pain like when running on the roads. Moreover, in order to ensure the comfort while training, like NordicTrack X9i Incline Trainer Treadmill the machine also features 2 Autobreeze™ workout fans. They work well in keeping me cozy and cool even during my extensive workouts. You can find this feature on other good models like Official Boston Marathon Treadmill 4.0 or NordicTrack Commercial 1750 with three Fans.

Support

The sturdy frame of the machine supports user weighing up to 400lbs. This user weight capacity is higher than my old model could do. That makes the treadmill become an ideal option for heavy runners. In addition to 44 built-in workout programs, this trainer is integrated with the iFit® Technology. It aims to add more realistic training to user’s program and transform usual incline training to hiking any trail in the world. The ample workout programs really help me avoid the boring caused by repeating the same exercises many time.

With the support of the Cardiogrip™ heart rate monitor equipped with wireless chest pulse, I can identify my heart rate and if I am reaching my target rate zone or not. Besides, the unit also provides entertainment support including an iPod-compatible sound system and a web browser accessed through a 10″ touch screen.

Convenience

When it comes to assembly, I easily assembled the machine in a few steps. It took me less time to assemble the X11i than any my old machines. Like other modern treadmill models, instead of manual controlling the unit features a 1-touch incline/decline and speed controls that let me adjust the performance of my machine easily.

Besides, via the Racetrack display, I can monitor and track my training progress conveniently. It shows the important statistics of my training including speed, distance, time elapsed, calories burned, and heart rate. Plus, the heart rate sensors are put right on both handlebars automatically measuring my pulse when I am holding them.

Another convenient feature is an integrated adjustable tablet holder. It let me attach my tablet to the built-in bracket and enjoy my favorite shows, songs, or movies while training. However, I wish this model was designed with foldable feature for me to store or move it easier. I often have to have my brother to help move it after finishing training because it is quite heavy.

Performance

It is rated as an ultimate exercising machine, the Nordic Track X11i incline trainer promises to trainee burn 5 times the calories just by walking. Although, the manufacture did not provide any evidence to prove for that, I still believe that is true. The X11i is amazingly quiet for a large machine compared to the X9i. Upgraded for 2016, now the machine features WhisperQuiet™ technology. A heavy-duty 4.0 CHP DurX™ commercial pro motor operates very strongly, smoothly but very stably and not nosily.

Especially, while most treadmills only offers 15% incline, the unit offers up to 40% incline and -6% decline feature. It allows me to accelerate my training and burn calories like a runner while just walking without the strain and stress to my joints. With these great features, it definitely allows users to reach their target fitness goals faster.

Quality and durability

For over years, NordicTrack has been well-known for its high quality and durable products. Incline Trainer X11i is not exception. It is designed with superior quality parts. A 2-ply tread belt is featured with large 2.5″ rollers to not only reduces the noise from the tread belt but also help enhance the durability of the product. The 4.25 CHP motor is strong enough to withstand regularly strenuous workouts. So, you can train on this machine every day without worrying about tear and wear.

In the terms of quality, at its price this unit is the best one in the market right now. Noticeably, the treadmill includes lifetime warranty on the deck, motor, and frame and six years on electronics and parts that make it become more reliable than ever.

Use

Although the 60″ tread belt can accommodate runners, The NordicTrack Incline Trainers are primarily walking machines because of the steep incline. I have used it to do cardio and burn fat, and it has worked very effectively for me.

Overall, I highly suggested this model for those who are looking for a cross- trainer that can provide them with higher resistance and greater performance as well as help them reach their fitness goals easier. However, if you are budget-conscious buyer, you should consider other cheaper models from the NordicTrack like the Incline Trainer X7i and X9i.

Compare NordicTrack Incline Trainer X11i to other models

NordicTrack Incline Trainer X9i

Firstly, I would like to compare the X11i to another incline trainer model of Nordic Track. Although this unit comes at lower price than the X11i model, it is still one of the best cross-training treadmills on the market. Like the X11i of Nordic Track, the X9i can be inclined up to 40% and declined down to -6% that helps enhance user’s performance. Other similar features between two models includes Reflex™ cushioning system, a roomy 60″ x 22″ workout surface, 44 built-in programs and so on.

Generally, the X11i is the updated model of the NordicTrack Incline Trainer X9i. However because of having lower price, the X9i only has 3.0 HP motor, a full-color 7″ touchscreen display and just withstand users weighing less than 350 lbs instead of 400 lbs like the X11i. If you are not heavy trainee, I highly recommend the X9i.

Horizon Fitness Elite T9 Treadmill

Another model which I want to recommend as a good cross trainer is Horizon Fitness Elite T9. Although it only comes with 2.75 HP motor, this still offers a top speed up to 12 MPH. A 60″ x 20″ track of the machine is roomy enough for tall runner to stretch their strides comfortably. However, when it comes to the incline level, this model only offers 0-15% incline range so it can’t enhance the trainee’s performance as good as the X11i could do.

That is because Horizon Fitness Elite T9 has lower price. But there are also many good features found on this treadmill. For example, a full-color 10″ touchscreen allowing users to track their time, distance, speed, incline, calories, heart rate and pace of their training process. Variable response cushioning system offers a smart blend of firmness and shock absorption. And 44 workout programs target calorie burning, interval, distance, performance and step goals. I like the foldable design on this unit that isn’t included on the X11i.