Best Treadmills with iFit

iFit-enabled treadmills not only feature live and on-demand programming, but automatic trainer control as well. Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Top by Category

Best Overall – NordicTrack Commercial X32i
Best Runner-Up – NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Best No Frills – ProForm Pro 2000
Best on a Budget – NordicTrack EXP 7i
Best Overall Deal – ProForm Carbon T7

A one-of-a-kind workout app, the iFit system brings features like automatic trainer control and live coaching into your home. Fans of home fitness might recognize the name ICON Health & Fitness, parent company of NordicTrack, ProForm, and FreeMotion, among others. This company renamed itself iFIT Health & Fitness in June, 2021.  The Interactive Fitness & Workout App known as “iFit” now comes as part of the package for most machines offered by these brands. Many of these machines feature a free 30-day trial and some are offered for free in exchange for a contract with the app. But what makes it different from the rest?

Having used iFit on a NordicTrack Commercial 1750 for the last year and tested it against other machines, I can tell you the difference is big. Like most other brands’ proprietary apps, iFit comes with a virtual library of limitless programs in categories spanning cardio to free weights. But unlike the others, this app can actually control your machine’s resistance during live workouts with professional trainers. This automatic trainer control also works on the on-demand programs too. While cutting weight for a bodybuilding contest this June, I completed a series of mountain hikes through the hills of Italy and Scotland led by a tour guide. I also enjoyed the Google Maps workout program which allows you to jog this globe we call Earth. Another great tool is the iFit SmartBeat heart monitor and ActivePulse technology which displayed my heart rate throughout the workout. This lets the machine adjust the resistance to keep me in check both the mountain hikes and the cardio target.

When coaching clients myself for bodybuilding contests, we focus a lot on the “Why.” Why are you training? With iFit, I’ve found that whether you’re trying to lose significant weight or improve endurance, there’s always something there. One bother I’ve had with treadmills over the years is having to adjust the speed and incline myself, and this system takes that off the table. You’re also afforded live coaching and the energy of classes similar to what you’d find on rival Peloton by way of bikes, as well as nutrition coaching. The iFit app travels on any mobile device, computer, or smart TV as well. It also works on any of the manufacturer’s machines, meaning you could mix-and-match a NordicTrack bike with a ProForm treadmill, rower, or elliptical.

Read below to see my picks for the Best Treadmills with iFit and check back from time to time as this list will change with new updates for the lineups. You’re picking here between NordicTrack, ProForm, and FreeMotion machines when it comes to active use, but the fact is you could take the app with you for off-machine workouts or use it nutrition information. For more information about iFit, read our review here.

1. Best Overall – NordicTrack Commercial X32i

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The NordicTrack Commercial X32i is a Big Dog for sure in the world of treadmills. Rated highly in customer reviews and our own trials, this treadmill qualifies as a high-end unit and isn’t for the casual user. Equipped with a giant 32″ monitor, you’ll feel yourself walking across the Swiss Alps while on an iFit trip around the globe. Notice the size of the handlebars and their placement. They’re designed to accommodate the treadmill’s 40% incline and 6% decline features. When the treadmill goes up to 40% you’ll need those handlebars, whether doing hill sprints or mountain climbs.

The X32i comes with 30 days of iFit free, and like all of the enabled machines, features AutoAdjust technology, Quiet Drive Incline technology, optimized HD graphics performance, and dual 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity. The treadmill operates off a 4.25 CHP motor and has speeds up to 12mph.

The system utilizes an Android 9 OS and sports Bluetooth headphone connectivity, two 3″ digitally amplified speakers, and one touch controls. Another big point, literally, for the X32i is the 22″x 65″ commercial tread belt, which is five inches longer than average. Tall users, or those whole like distance running take note. The machine rides on 2.5″ precision and balanced non-flex rollers and has a 300lb user capacity. The other end of the deal is the 462lb in-box weight. You’ll definitely want to let the delivery team install and assemble this unit per their free offer. While watching, you’ll see it’s not particularly complicated, but the treadmill measures 76.5″ in length by 40″ wide, with a height of 73″ and that’s too big to assemble yourself. Dual workout fans help keep you cool on hard runs.

In terms of warranty, the X32i offers 10 years for the frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor. See our in-depth review of the NordicTrack Commercial X32i.

Key Specs

2. Best Runner-Up – NordicTrack Commercial 1750

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An all-round top pick, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a genuine Goldilocks Model when it comes to iFit-friendly treadmills. Not too big, not too small, there’s no question you can work the miles on this mid-priced unit. Equipped with a 14″ HD touchscreen that tilts and pivots, iFit subscribers can engage the scenery and their metrics easy enough here. The touchscreen features HD graphics with processor cooling, premium audio speakers, and is ready for Bluetooth headphones as well as heart rate connectivity. The system operates using Android 9 OS, as well as a dual 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity.

As with all iFit-enabled machines, this treadmill is built with AutoAdjust technology for trainer or program control, Quiet Drive Incline Tech, and ActivePulse Technology. A 3.5 CHP motor powers the treadmill from -3% decline up to 15% incline, at speeds topping out at 12mph. A key benefit to the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is the fact it can fold up using the SpaceSaver Design. Folding it is as easy as one lift of the back and it can be rolled off to the side when not in use. This treadmill sports a 300lb maximum weight capacity and weighs 340lbs in-box. It measures 80″ x 38″ x 65″ and has a 22″ x 60″ tread belt atop 2.5″ precision and balanced non-flex rollers. Other comfort features include integrated trays and fans.

The warranty on this unit is 10 years for the frame, two for parts and one for labor. Read review of the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

Key Specs

3. Best No Frills – ProForm Pro 2000

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The ProForm Pro 2000 is a value buy given the features it offers. Priced to include a 30-day trial of iFit included, the Pro 2000 can be purchased for just $47 per month over 39 months. A good sized model, the treadmill features a 10″ Smart HD Touchscreen and Bluetooth audio capabilities with dual 2″ speakers. Equipped with a 3.25 CHP motor and 20″ x 60″ tread belt, the machine rolls atop 1.9″ precision-balanced rollers and ReBound Pro Cushioning. Like other mid-sized iFit-enabled models, the Pro 2000 comes foldable with and easy lifting feature.

Fitness fans can incline up to 12% and decline -3% while moving between 0 and 12mph using quick one touch controls. Like all iFit machines, automatic trainer control and Bluetooth heart rate training come as part of the package. Comfort features include workout fans and storage trays. The treadmill measures 77.3″ in length, 35.3″ in width, and 59.6″ in height with a 300lb maximum weight limit. When delivered, the unit weighs 262 lbs and we encourage customers to allow the delivery team to install it. Even mid-sized models like this can be a bit awkward due to the length and weight.

For the average user, the ProForm Pro 2000 brings all the basics you’ll need to get a great workout. A 10″ screen is plenty to interact with live-streaming workouts and incline/decline options between 12% and -3% can give you all the High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) options you need up to 12mph. The motor size is sufficient for HIIT and most folks will be able to hit all their goals on this model.

The ProForm Pro 2000 comes with a 10-year frame warranty, two years for parts, and one year for labor. Read our review of it here.

Key Specs

4. Best on a Budget – NordicTrack EXP 7i

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The NordicTrack EXP 7i is all a person needs for home cardio fitness at under $1,200. The smallest treadmill in the brand’s EXP Series lineup, the 7i brings an iFit membership of 30 days with the purchase. But for under $1,200 a customer can get all the benefits of iFit’s automatic trainer controls and heart rate technology without sacrificing a lot of home space.

This treadmill brings a 7″ HD Smart Touchscreen and Bluetooth audio, including two 2″ digitally amplified speakers. The EXP 7i features one touch controls and a smart-response drive system to match the automatic adjustment technology. This unit folds easily and brings a 20″ x 60″ tread belt with FlexSelect Cushioning. The belt rides atop 1.9″ precision and balanced non-flex rollers for a smooth ride. A smaller machine, the EXP 7i utilizes a 3.0 CHP Plus motor and can incline up to 12% with maximum speeds of 12mph. Measuring 77.3″ in length by 35.3″ wide and 59.6″ high, this folding treadmill still supports up to 300lbs in user weight and only weighs 222lb in the delivery box.

Other comfort features include the workout fans and integrated user tray. If you’re primarily interested in speed walking, or perhaps HIIT by way of inline training, this little unit will certainly do the trick. The warranty brings 10 years coverage on the frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor. Read our full review of the NordicTrack EXP 7i here.

Key Specs

5. Best Overall Deal – ProForm Carbon T7

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Part of the ProForm+ program, the ProForm Carbon T7 can be had effectively for free when customers sign up for three years of the iFit Family Membership plan at $39 per month, or a one-time fee of $1,403. This means you get both the machine and app for the same price. It’s a deal to good to ignore, and NordicTrack also has a similar program offered select machines as well.

A space-friendly unit, the T7 has a 7″ Smart HD Touchscreen and dual 2″ speakers. Bluetooth-enabled, just like the other iFit machines, the T7 can be used with ActivePulse heart rate programming as well as automatic controls. If you’re looking for a space-saver this is it. With a tread belt of 20″ x 55″ it is a smaller training area and yet supports up to 300lbs in user weight. The machine only weighs 223lbs in-box and can fold up easily and be rolled away when not in use. It measures 73.5″ in length, 35.2″ wide, and 57.5″ in height. The unit comes with a 2.6 CHP motor which can reach speeds of 10mph and inclines of 10% by way of easy-to-reach controls. Granted, a 2.6 CHP motor isn’t what you need for heavy distance running, but it’s great for fast walking or incline work.

The deck might be a bit smaller, but it comes with ISO Flex Cushioning for better shock absorption and rides atop 1.9″ precision-balanced rollers. And yes, it comes with a fan for cooling purposes. In terms of warranty, the T7 offers a 10-year frame guarantee with one year for parts and labor. One of the only downsides to iFit treadmills is that without the app, the screens lose value. We’ll discuss that a bit below, but with the T7 and ProForm+ deal, you get both machine and app for the same price, nearly halving the cost of the purchase. Read our in-depth review of the T7 here.

Key Specs

The iFit value

Let’s face it, there are costs and benefits to every deal. The iFit Family Membership is $396 per year or $39 per month. An individual plan is $180 per year or $15 per month. The family plan comes with up to four user profiles, and both single and family plans can be downloaded onto devices for travel. This program also syncs with Apple Health, Garmin Connect, Google Fit, and Strava.

The biggest question I hear about iFit is whether these machines will work without it. What happens if you try the program and don’t want to continue with the app but like the machine? The machines do work in a manual mode. So you can at some point opt out of it and simply use the machine. The big downside is that the screens have limited use at that point and there’s no automatic trainer control anymore. The manual mode is very simple and if you’re not into interactive training you’re probably better of with a different treadmill. Some of the lower-cost iFit treadmills come without a screen and have integrated tablet holders instead. Those might be better if you’re planning to cut the app at some point. The answer is no, the iFit treadmill screens do not work with Netflix or Hulu. You could however download the iFit app onto a smart television or use a different device though.

As a competitive bodybuilder and trainer of those who compete in weight class sports, the “Why” is also top of mind. If you’re looking for high-level exercise programming without the muss and fuss of records keeping, iFit is great. I have an Excel spreadsheet with nearly 15 years of barbell workouts from powerlifting to bodybuilding because I log all of my workouts in a notebook as I’m going. Old school for sure. Like other apps, iFit tracks all of your own metrics and suggests routines based on past performance. While I was hiking through Italy, the program began offering me other hikes through other parts of the world. Like other programs, you can crank up the incline and hike at 5mph or run for miles. The difference is the benefit of the machine controlling the resistance and even adjusting to your heart rate in both live and on-demand programming.

In terms of cost, shop around here amongst our reviews and you’ll see NordicTrack and ProForm are right on target with their competitors. FreeMotion is a bit pricier. But if you’re looking for cost-friendly units at any level, you’ll find them here.

NordicTrack’s Commercial X32i features an impressive 40% incline. This allows you to simulate steep hills in iFit programming. Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Performance

Customer service is a common complaint for all equipment brands because, let’s face it, people rarely call customer service with compliments. In reading our own comments from customers, I find the biggest problem treadmill owners face is remembering to lubricate their machines. This is a must. When someone says their machine simply quit working, ask if they ever lubed it. That said, I did have an experience with another brand recently where the app quit working and ultimately I had to reboot it while holding down the “1” and”7″ keys. That’s not particularly intuitive and it took a few calls to customer service to figure it out. Overall, iFit treadmills sell well for a reason. They’re good units.

Read our guide here to treadmill motors before making a purchase. There’s a big difference in wanting a treadmill for marathon training as opposed to walking. The price of treadmills varies and motor size, screen size, and incline/decline options seem to be a big determiner. If you’re looking to lose weight, then remember that varying the incline while walking can be very effective. It can also be easier on the joints than running. I have yet to see one of these machines fail to live up to the promises in terms of speed ranges or incline though, so rest assured performance is more a matter of expectations than brand quality.

Warranties

We watch this like hawks here and have seen a number of changes over the years. Ideally you’d like to see a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, with perhaps 5-10 years for the labor and parts. That’s still out there but becoming less common. At minimum you’d want 10 years for the frame and a 30-day money-back guarantee. We’ve found the iFit treadmills tend to meet or exceed this and we haven’t seen too many complaints on that end.

A treadmill which folds easily makes for a real space-saver. Folding treadmills can be wheeled away when not in use.
Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Trainer Tips

This year I used an iFit treadmill and program as my primary cardio while cutting weight for an NPC bodybuilding show. I took two first place trophies, one second, and two thirds. I cut from 212 in January to 165 by June 25 and turned 47 years old four weeks later. It was a tested event meaning no drugs or steroids allowed. If you’re looking for that kind of action you can find it on any of these machines, even the smaller ones. I’ve found high-resistance walking with incline and decline variations at speeds between 1 and 6mph to be sufficient to break a serious sweat. The ActivePulse technology which helps adjust the resistance based on heart rate was great. If you’re worried that an iFit treadmill might be too much for you as a beginner, reconsider. Power walking and mountain hikes are great even for heavier people with thick leg muscles.

Conclusion

The iFit treadmill series spans enough brands there’s something for everyone. The price ranges are also pretty wide. If you’re looking for interactive training with a cardio unit, I’d strongly recommend checking these out. With the automatic trainer controls and heart rate training offered, there’s not a lot like it on the market.