Best for Home Use
Best for Serious Runners
Best for Walkers
Best for Seniors
NordicTrack EXP 7i Review
Brian is a regular competitor and national qualifier in the National Physique Committee events of bodybuilding and classic physique. A veteran writer and editor of more than 24 years, he's published numerous articles on fitness, health, and exercise.
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Jessica is a NASM-certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, and behaviour change specialist. From teens to older adults, she is experienced in addressing unique fitness considerations associated with all age groups.
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Under $1500This Treadmill Could Be For You If You Want:
- Interactive iFit workout programming
- An HD screen which tilts
- A foldable treadmill
- A smaller unit which still delivers top performance
- A treadmill best used for walking, hiking, and jogging
A little smaller but with a few new add-ons, the EXP 7i for 2023 still makes a great entry-level unit to the NordicTrack T Series of treadmills which include the EXP 10i and EXP 14i. Designed for in-home use at a family-friendly price of $1,199, the EXP 7i comes iFit-enabled and includes a 30-day Family Membership with the purchase valued at $39.
One big change this year is that the 7″ HD Smart Touchscreen can now tilt as opposed to remaining fixed, as was the case in 2022. The unit still comes with Bluetooth technology for either headphones or heart rate monitors. Users can either stick with the iFit programming or discontinue and utilize their own television, tablet or smartphone. The screen only works with iFit, but as a folding treadmill easily moved, it’s easy to incorporate other options. The downside is this year’s model has a shorter running track and lower speeds for the same price of $1,199.
What We Like:
- Tilting Touchscreen — If you’re into floorwork, or just want to adjust the screen a bit, this makes a big difference. Having had the 2022 EXP 7i in my own home as well as others with tilting screens, I can tell you it’s nice to have that option.
- Smart-Response Drive — NordicTrack has upped the ante by offering a smart system which self-cools while reducing vibration with better technology in the drive. This system is designed to help reduce strain on the body while replicating real-world road running.
- 30-day iFit Family Membership — The dynamic workout program includes Google Maps Workouts, as well as live trainers who can control the treadmill’s incline and speed from remote. A virtual library of workouts come with, as well as new routines added daily. Whether participating in a class of any design, or utilizing one tailored for the individual, the iFit program offers programs ranging from HIIT to slow walks.
- SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist — Folding treadmills are easy to move and easier to use. With space in the home always at a premium, this feature allows for easy movement as needed.
- Bluetooth Technology — Whether for headphones or heart rate monitoring, the machine comes equipped with the latest in technology.
- Quality Shock Absorption – Equipped with FlexSelect Cushioning, the EXP 7i provides excellent protection for the joints while pounding out the mileage.
- Running Comfort – The treadmill is equipped with an AutoBreeze Workout Fan with four power settings (high, medium, low, and auto).
- Maximum User Weight — The treadmill may be small enough to fit easily in any room, but it still sports a whopping 300-pound user weight maximum.
NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill - Key Specs:
| Star Rating: | 4-stars |
|---|---|
| Motor: | 2.6 HP |
| Incline: | 0-12% |
| Running Area: | 20" x 55" |
| Folding: | Yes |
| Top Speed: | 10 MPH |
| Weight Capacity: | 300 LBS |
| Dimensions: | 70.8" L x 34.9" W x 59.7" H |
| Built-In Programs: | iFit only |
What We Don’t Like:
- No built-in programs — The treadmill comes with a 30-day subscription to iFit, but after that it’s up to them.
- Several Downgrades From 2022 — Last year’s model featured a 3.0 CHP motor whereas this year brings a 2.6. Last year’s model had a 60″ x 20″ belt whereas this year’s has a 20″ x 55″ belt. Last year’s model had a top speed of 12mph whereas this year’s is 10mph. This is a treadmill now best used for hard walking, hiking, and jogging as opposed to longer runs.
From a hardware standpoint, the EXP 7i offers an entry-level treadmill within the NordicTrack T Series. With an upgraded 7-inch HD Smart Touchscreen that tilts and Bluetooth audio capabilities, the treadmill offers premium sound options with a pair of 2″ digitally amplified speakers. Automatic trainer control goes along with the iFit programming where trainers can increase, or decrease, both speed and incline.
With a maximum speed of 10mph, the treadmill also has a maximum incline of 12%, as well as OneTouch® Controls. An AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan helps keep users cool, while an integrated tray affords them the chance to set phones or other objects inside while running.
The 2.6 CHP Commercial Plus Motor keeps the 55″ x 20″ belt moving atop the frame, which measures 70.8″ in length, 34.9″ in width, and sets 59.7″ inches high. Maximum user weight is 300 lbs, and the machine operates using 1.9″ precision and balanced rollers. Given the size of this 2023 unit, we’d recommend it for hard walking, hikes, and jogs. Don’t be fooled though. You can still earn the burn that way, particularly as the machine can sport up to 300 pounds in user weight. Another benefit to a smaller unit is it’s easier to keep lubricated and align the belts if needed. NordicTrack offers a 10-year warranty on the frame, two years on the parts, and one year for labor.
About iFit:
I’m an iFit user myself and have a NordicTrack 1750 in my home as well as the 2022 EXP 7i. The iFit program was a key tool in my training for the 2022 Indiana Natural NPC bodybuilding competition where I brought home two first place trophies, as well as two third’s and a second. I can highly recommend the app at just $39 per month and don’t intend to discontinue it.
The iFit program brings professional trainers to your home live by way of the treadmill’s screen. The trainers can control the machine’s resistance and speed to keep up with the session. The program also brings Google Maps Workouts to the home and allows users to run virtually along the beaches and mountains of Earth, or anywhere with a map. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) programs to slow walks are available in either the library of pre-prepared programs, or the daily routines generated.
A recent upgrade to iFit-enabled machines is the new ActivePulse heart rate program, which allows the machine to automatically adjust speed and incline based on the user’s heart rate. A leader in the field of interactive workout programming tailored to the individual, iFit’s Family Membership comes with four user profiles, meaning multiple people in the household can have workouts with individualized data tracking. To read our complete review of the iFit workout app, read here.
Our Verdict:
We’ve long been fans of the NordicTrack lineup, and the EXP 7i is a great entry level unit. Downgraded a bit yes, but if you’re into walking or jogging, then 10mph with a 12% incline is probably sufficient to cut the fat. The smaller screen is better now that it can tilt, and at $1,199, it’s still a high-quality, low-cost unit. It’s a great treadmill for the price, and so long as you like the iFit training program, it’s a no-brainer. Given the machine’s lack of built-in programs, there other options of course, such as listening to music or watching television.
- Tilting Touchscreen
- 30-day iFit Family Membership
- SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist
- Cushioning for joint protection
- No built-in programs
- Short Running Space
- Short warranty
What’s Changed For This Year
Each year a few models get upgrades. Larger screens, stronger motors, or better tech are common. Occasionally you will see two treadmills with the same name on the manufacturers site, which is confusing enough for us treadmill experts, let alone a new consumer. Below is a quick breakdown of what is new on the latest version of this treadmill.
New for 2023 (January 2023 release)
- Upgraded 7″ HD Touchscreen: The new model has a screen which can tilt.
- Smaller Frame: The new model has a shorter running space of 20″ x 55″ which is 5″ shorter. The machine itself is also smaller in size.
- Smaller Motor and Lower Speeds: The motor has moved down from a 3.0 to a 2.6 CHP and now top speeds are 10mph instead of 12.
New for 2022 (January 2022 release)
- iFit Family Membership Commitment: The 4-year iFit Family Membership commitment was reduced to 1-year with no commitment required for Individual Plan.
Recent Updates
- October 25, 2022: Added photos from personal use, updated FAQs, and added pros and cons table.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can one expect the NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill to last?
With a solid tread and 1.9" precision and non-balanced non-flex rollers, the machine is well built and could last 10+ years when properly maintained.
Can the NordicTrack EXP 7i's 2.6 CHP motor support long and extensive training?
The 2.6 CHP motor is sufficient for jogging and walking. With a 20" x 55" walking space, this wouldn't be a good pick for marathon training.
How is the NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill's noise levels?
The NordicTrack EXP 7i is rated an average treadmill in terms of noise.
Do you have to turn off the NordicTrack EXP 7i every day?
It's recommended to unplug your treadmill after each use.
Is iFit required to use the NordicTrack EXP 7i?
No, you can use the EXP 7i in manual mode.