NordicTrack Reflex 4500 PRO Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

"The Most Forgiving Deck in the Industry"

The NordicTrack Reflex 4500 PRO comes with their patented Reflex Deck, which significantly reduces impact. Overall, treadmills offer better shock absorption over running on streets and pavement, however, the Reflex Deck takes it to the next level.

According to NordicTrack, the deck reduces impact by nearly 40% over running outside. As you can see from the animation below, it bounces and absorbs the impact in the process. The way the deck works is it bows when your foot strikes the surface and spring back when you launch your foot. The theory behind the design is to provide an energy retaining system that allows you to workout longer.

Note: As of 3/8/10 the Reflex 4500 PRO was not available. Go to the NordicTrack Treadmill Reviews for the latest models.

The concept is intriguing, but I had one concern - the durability. I was at the NordicTrack headquarters last summer, and I asked just how reliable is this deck, considering the degree of motion. The staff assured me there have been no problems with the deck cracking or breaking. In fact, they told me it is made of solid poplar wood, the same wood used in snowboards.

If you are considering buying the Reflex 4500 PRO treadmill, it is important you understand this is not like your normal treadmill. There is that spring like motion when you impact the deck. The majority of people like the degree of shock absorption, however, I did get one review where the user said the action took some getting use to. Regardless, this deck really lowers the level of impact, and reduces stress to your ankles, knees, and lower back.

Below are a couple of customer reviews:

"After trying this treadmill for about two minutes, I was HOOKED!. The Reflex Deck acts somewhat like a trampoline, propelling your every step and greatly reducing the stress on knees (mine are bad anyway) and ankles."

"The deck is what Nordic Track calls a reflex deck. This makes life much easier on your joints while walking and running. I also like the feel of the reflex decks much better than the standard cushioned decks under my feet. The decks that have the cushioning under the belt can feel like you are sinking when you step down. The reflex deck gives you a springing feeling. In my opinion it feels much more natural."

Other NordicTrack Reflex 4500 PRO features.

20" x 55" Treadbelt - The length of the belt is adequate for average height walkers and joggers. If you are over 6'1" you may want to upgrade to a longer belt.

3.0 Continuous Duty HP Motor - This motor is more than sufficient enough for walkers and joggers.

Sound System - Speakers are built into the console. The sound is not bad considering. You can plug in your iPod or MP3 player.

iFit Live - iFit Live is the next generation of iFit technology. It allows your treadmill and computer to communication through Wi-Fi. At an extra cost you will be able to create an indepth profile on iFit.com and define your fitness goals. In response iFit will develop your own customized fitness program. You'll be able to receive automaticworkout downloads, workout with personal trainers like Jilliam Michaels, track your progress and manage your profile online (Requires wireless connection).

In addition, through Google Maps you can simulate exercising on trails thoughout the world. For example, you can simulate running the Boston Marathon, and get street views as you run through the city. Note: Using the Google Maps feature of iFit Live requires a browser on a Laptop or smart phone. The console on the Reflex 4500 has slots to fit your laptop.

The iFit is already proving to be a huge success with customers.

20 Workouts - You can choose between aerobic, weight-loss or performance workouts, depending on your fitness goals. A good selection of motivating exercises.

Warranty - You get 1 year parts and labor coverage. I would upgrade the warranty at least another year. The cost is not that much.

Our Review - NordicTrack Reflex 4500 PRO

What makes the Reflex 4500 PRO appealing is the Reflex Deck. Everything else is fairly average. Here is my recommendation. If you want one of the most forgiving decks on the market at a reasonable price, than this is a good choice.

Don't let the looks fool you, this deck is durable and can take a beating. Customers who have bought a treadmill with the Reflex deck were generally very satisfied. In fact, my contact at NordicTrack mentioned that among the executives in the company, the Reflex treadmills are the models they choose for themselves. We're typically talking individuals over 50 who prefer a machine that reduces impact.

You can learn more at NordicTrack.com.