NordicTrack Apex 8500 Treadmill Review

"The Most Forgiving Deck in the Industry"

With the NordicTrack Apex 8500 Treadmill, you get a flat screen TV and premium sound system, combined with one of the most forgiving decks in the industry — The Reflex Deck.

I recently tested the 8500 treadmill at the corporate headquarters of Icon Fitness, and was very impressed. This is an ideal treadmill for someone that wants a low impact workout, while being entertained.

The Reflex Deck is an arc-shape wooden deck designed to reduce impact by nearly 40% compared to running outside. If you go to their site, you can see a demonstration. You'll notice that the deck bounces more than normal - it actually springs back. The theory behind the design is to provide an energy retaining system that allows you to workout longer.

Some users may find the spring action undesirable, but most of the customer reviews are very positive. Below are a couple of comments:

"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."

The Apex 8500 Reflex deck should be particularly appealing to individuals suffering from injuries to their ankles, knees and lower back.

It is made of solid popular wood, the same wood used in snowboards.

Other features on the NordicTrack Apex 8500 include:

7" Flat Screen TV with Multi-Colored Displays. This TV is cable/DVD ready. A number of NordicTrack treadmills are equipped with TVs. They are very popular, because they distract from the boredom of running in place. People tend to workout longer when they have distractions like their favorite programs or movies.

Intermix Acoustic Sound System. This is the best sound system built into a treadmill. It comes with high-end speakers, and if that is not enough, a subwoofer. You'll be rockin as you're running. You can plug in your MP3, and other popular audio inputs.

20"x 60" extra long treadbelt. This length is ideal for runners and tall users. When you run on a 54" belt, you often feel you are falling off the end.

3.5 HP continuous duty motor. This motor will provide adequate power to handle running at higher speed, without straining. It is ideal for multiple users, or extensive use.

IFIT technology. You purchase workout cards that focus on different categories of fitness goals like weight loss, performance, wellness and body shaping. Certified personal trainers design them. Each card has 24 workouts, which control the speed, incline and duration of your exercise. During the workout, you get motivational audio from the trainer, who provides suggestions on how to get maximum performance and results.

The warranty includes lifetime motor coverage. The parts and labor is only for one year. I would suggest upgrading to another 1-2 years.

Our Review - NordicTrack Apex 8500 Treadmill

This is the perfect treadmill for someone who is looking for a low-impact machine that will also entertain. If you are suffering from injuries or strains, you'll appreciate the shock absorption. The TV and sound system makes your treadmill workout more appealing. Also, this is one of the most attractive treadmills on the market, the finished poplar wooden deck is very sharp.

When I was at their corporate office, they mentioned that besides being one of their more popular treadmills, the Apex 8500 has a good service record - an important factor. I would still consider upgrading the warranty.

At the current discount price, combined with the various features, we consider the 8500 a good value. Click here for more details on the .