NordicTrack 4200 Treadmill Review

The NordicTrack 4200 is one of their hotest sellers. It is designed to get you in shape and entertain you at the same time. And as boring as walking or running in place can be, some distractions are appreciated.

When you look at the features listed below, it is easy to understand why. Without the flat screen TV and the sound system, it would still be a bargain at the current price. This may be one of the better offering on their site.

These are the features that make the NordicTrack 4200 treadmill a good value:

7" Flat Screen TV - NordicTrack has a number of treadmills with flat screen TVs, the 4200 is the least expensive. Televisions are an ideal distraction from the monotony of exercising in place, and having it built into your console is an ideal location. You can plug in cable, DVD players and iPod video. When the TV is not on, the screen will display all of your workout feedback, plus a multi-color intensity profile.

3.25 Continuous Duty HP Motor - You will usually find this size motor in treadmills starting at $1,800. They use MacMillan motors, which is an excellent brand. That is why you get a lifetime warranty on the motor. At 3.25 HP the 4200 treadmill will effortlessly handle both walkers and joggers.

20" x 60" Long Treadbelt - Most treadmills in this price range come with a 54" belt. That is fine for an average height user that walks. However, if you are tall or plan to jog you'll appreciate the extra 6" length.

Intermix Acoustics™ Sound System - I've heard this sound system and the clarity is not that bad. Even when you have the machine cranked up the sound come through.

Wireless Heart Rate Control - When I was out at the NordicTrack corporate headquarters I told them they should include the wireless belt on some of their machines. Apparently they listened. Most of their treadmills have heart rate monitors through handgrips. Who wants to hold on to handgrips when you are walking or jogging. With the Wireless belt you can optimize your workout by letting your heart rate determine your level of exertion. Many experts claim this is the best method for reaching your fitness goals.

35 Built-in Workouts Programs - I don't know of any other treadmill that includes that many programs. You get:

• 15 personal trainer workouts that automatically adjust the incline and speed of your treadmill, each focusing on an aerobic, weight loss or performance goal.
• 4 heart rate programs that keep you in your target heart rate zone by increasing or lowering the speed.
• 4 learn programs that give the ability to create and customize a workout and then save it for future use.
• 4 weight-loss workouts designed to burn calories and lose weight.
• 4 distance workouts allow you to run a 5k, 10k or half-marathon.

Our Review - NordicTrack 4200 Treadmill

No one does a better job of packaging treadmills than NordicTrack. On the 4200 you get a big motor, an extra long deck, flat screen TV, sound system, a generous number of workout programs and wireless heart rate control. For the price these are impressive features.

I would suggest you upgrade the warranty beyond 1-year parts and labor. Treadmill repairs can be expensive. Although when I talked to the corporate office they mentioned that the service record for the 4200 has been good.

The NordicTrack 420 is definitely worth considering if you want a machine that will get you in shape and entertain you at the same time.

Go to NordicTrack.com for more information.