NordicTrack Z7XI Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

The NordicTrack Z7XI treadmill is one of the better values for a budget treadmill. It surpasses many of the cheap treadmill models that are available through mass merchants. However, it is important to realize the Z7XI is a budget treadmill with limitation. I would recommend it primarily for walking and below I have suggested weight limits.

What makes this treadmill appealing is the numerous features that are listed below. Nordictrack excels at giving the most for the least amount.

Note: As of 10/04/09 the NordicTrack Z7XI was was selling for $699 with shipping. Not a bad price or budget treadmill. Go to www.NordicTrackTreadmills.com for the latest deal.

NordicTrack Z7XI treadmill features...

iFit Technology - iFit is one of the more innovative ideas to be incorporated into a treadmill. You have a selection of workout programs that includes audio coaching, and controls the speed and incline of the machine.

Each program is designed by a professional fitness trainer, and focused on different fitness goals. There are four categories of cards - weight loss, performance, wellness and body shaping. Each card has 24 workouts that cover an 8-week period.

With each workout there is an audio of the trainer, who motivates and encourages you. The trainer also recommends ways to improve your performance with tips on posture, stride, breathing, etc. A very cool feature that gets people motivated. (Note: There is an additional cost for the cards.)

Sound System - Another feature that helps you burn off calories is a sound system with premium speakers. You can plug in your MP3 player and listen to your favorite tunes. I personally prefer listening to speakers rather than headphones.

Adjustable Shock Absorption - The Durasoft III Adjustable Cushioning allows you to adjust the level of cushioning. For those that prefer a soft or solid cushioning, you can actually adjust the level of absorption.

12 Workout Programs - The NordicTrack Z7XI treadmill has a generous selection of workout programs. Like the iFit technology, the programs focus on different fitness goals like burning calories and building cardio strength.

2.25 HP Continuous Duty Motor - Although they call this a commercial motor, that is an exaggeration. I can guarantee you will not find this motor in a commercial treadmill. It is adequate for moderate walking exercise.

20" x 55" Treadmill - The length of the belt is adequate for most users. If you are over 6'2" you may want to consider a model with a longer belt.

Warranty - You get a lifetime motor and 1-year parts and labor warranty. You may want to consider getting an extension of 1-2 years, especially considering this is a budget model. It gives you the comfort of knowing if there is a problem NordicTrack is responsible for it.

Our Review - NordicTrack Z7XI Treadmill

The Z7XI is a much better treadmill than the cheap models offered by Image or Weslo, and you get some excellent features. When selling for under $799 it is one of the better budget values, just realize it has some limitations. It is best suited for walkers of average weight and height.

Note: This treadmill is a walking machine and is designed for moderate use. Also, the 300 lb. weight limit is pushing it. I would not buy this treadmill if you are over 225.

Also check out the Smooth 5.65.

Customer Review (NordicTrack C2155 - Similar)

"I've only had my treadmill for about a week now and I'm totally happy with my purchase. The wide belt, the fan that you can adjust to blow on you, the lighted panel, I could go on and on about the nice features that come with it at a very affordable price. I highly recommend this product."

---

A disappointment. I've used many different commercial quality treadmills in my travels and liked them all. I mistakenly thought I could buy a name brand machine on the internet and be happy. You need to get on a machine in a brick and mortar store and try it out first. My workout of choice is a brisk walking pace at 12% incline. I'm 6 foot and my hands do not reach the handrails on the C2155 at max incline. Also, the belt seems to slip and drag a little at the same time - I weigh under 200 lbs. The manual adjustment instructions say slip indicates the belt is too loose and drag indicates it is too tight. It should say adjust to minimize each. I never noticed this problem on a commercial machine. The heart rate monitor is a toy. The manual says to stand perfectly still to get a reading. I don't want to stop exercising to monitor my heart rate. Even when standing still the readings are not terribly consistent. This machine is geared for a woman - my wife (5'5" & 125 lbs) likes it. I should have spent an extra $2,000 and gotten a commercial quality machine.

Note: Based on this testimonial, the reader has to realize the C2155/Z7XI is a budget treadmill with limitations. However, for the price it is one of the better budget models. Although the customer has a point about the user weight limit.

Learn more at www.NordicTrackTreadmills.com