Last Update: November 22, 2024
I plan most of my running workouts at least a week in advance. It helps me stick to a schedule and progress steadily toward my goals. Unfortunately, sand storms, rain, or extreme heat and cold derail my plans often enough. If I need to do a heart rate-based workout or “trail” run indoors, there is only one type of treadmill that can get the job done: iFIT treadmills.
iFIT treadmills have outdoor content that can transform your runs and walks into the best virtual outdoor run possible. There are thousands of workouts to choose from, filmed worldwide. The smart features are immersive and a decent replacement for the outdoors.
Some of my favorite features on an iFIT treadmill include ActivePulse and SmartAdjust. These features adjust the treadmill settings to keep you in the correct heart rate zone and replicate the outdoor terrain shown on the screen. Discover the best treadmills for using these iFIT features and more.
Here’s Our List of the Best iFIT Treadmills for 2024
- NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
- ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
- NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
- NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
- ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
- Matrix TF50 Treadmill
NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill is well-cushioned with a large screen for viewing iFIT content. It is for runners who want to maximize their training experience with smart iFIT features. The 1750 is an easy choice for this list because it perfectly supports runners and walkers without the extravagant cost of other premium iFIT treadmills.
NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill delivers iFIT content on a 16-inch screen, creating a stellar run with smart performance features.
With our compiled treadmill reviewing experience, we suggest a 10-inch screen or bigger for the best viewing experience. The NordicTrack 1750 has a 16-inch touchscreen, which is just the right size for viewing the digital fitness content provided by iFIT. It’s also just large enough for off-treadmill workouts.
The display tilts and rotates to ensure you always have the right viewing angle on and off the treadmill. There are powerful speakers and Bluetooth audio for listening via headphones or earbuds. The audio can be customized with individual controls for the music and coach audio. A built-in Spotify app lets you listen to your favorite songs to get amped up for a hard workout.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 automatically adjusts the speed and incline settings to match the iFIT content so you can train hands-free. iFIT even offers heart rate zone training through ActivePulse, so if you have a compatible heart rate monitor, you can train in the zone indicated by the iFIT coach.
Even the fan has an Auto Breeze setting that allows it to match your training intensity. If you need to adjust the speed settings, iFIT will adjust the current workout and future workouts to reflect your fitness level better.
The NordicTrack 1750 has a 22″ x 60″ running belt that is very cushioned. It’s perfect for walkers or runners recovering or increasing their training intensity/duration. You can comfortably run as much or as fast as you would like up to the 12 mph speed limit with the spacious running surface and 4.25 CHP motor.
Faster runners may want something more powerful; the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 could be a good alternative with its 14 mph speed limit. Walkers and runners who do not need something as powerful could downsize to the Commercial 1250. For most, the 1750 will be the Goldilocks option, not too much or too little.
+ PROS
- 22” x 60” running deck
- 16” tilt-and-pivot touchscreen
- Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify, and more
- Bluetooth connectivity for headphones and heart rate monitor
- Automatic speed and incline adjustments
- -3% to 12% incline
– CONS
- More expensive than some iFIT treadmills
- Console height may be too low for taller exercisers
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Here
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill has a large, spacious deck and a large touchscreen. It is a great machine for runners or walkers who want to train daily. The ProForm Pro 9000 delivers iFIT content in a user-friendly and inviting way.
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill is a large folding treadmill with a 22-inch touchscreen display, perfect for viewing iFIT content.
The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill has a 22-inch touchscreen. This screen size makes the iFIT experience much more immersive, with quality graphics and beautiful, vibrant locations brought to life. It is also fantastic for navigating iFIT’s content while walking or running.
The onscreen cues and labels are easier to read, and the buttons are harder to miss. Bluetooth speakers and audio allow you to listen to iFIT content out loud or train quietly. iFIT content also has closed captioning, so you never miss your trainer’s cues.
The 20″ x 60″ running deck ensures you have plenty of room to lengthen your stride without fear of falling off the rear of the treadmill. The treadmill handles are large and supportive, helping you on and off the deck. The footrails are wide and textured, supporting you while you step onto the treadmill.
The 3.6 CHP motor is suitable for walking or running, and either type of user should have a pleasant experience on the Pro 9000. If you prefer to train exclusively indoors, perhaps following along with a training series from iFIT, the Pro 9000 is perfect for daily use.
The ProForm Pro 9000 inclines and declines. Though the incline motor is noisy, the incline and decline feature is essential for getting the complete iFIT experience, as it allows the treadmill deck to adjust to match the onscreen terrain. If you train with a heart rate monitor, the iFIT programs can adjust to help you stay in the appropriate heart rate zones.
The Pro 9000’s softly cushioned deck will encourage you to go farther and faster in your training while also potentially helping with recovery from past hard workout sessions. The soft cushion is also great for exercisers returning to activity from injury or surgery.
+ PROS
- The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill has a 22-inch touchscreen display, perfect for viewing iFIT content.
- The large display is easier to navigate.
- The ProForm Pro has incline and decline capabilities that perfectly pair with iFIT content.
- The deck is well-cushioned compared to running outside on the road.
- The ProForm Pro 9000 folding using hydraulic assistance.
- The speakers and Bluetooth audio work very well. Closed captions provide another method for following along with the trainer.
– CONS
- The incline motor is pretty loud.
- The Pro 9000 does not have a tablet rack, so you are stuck with iFIT content only.
Read Our Full Review Of The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Here
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
Ready for the workout of your life? The NordicTrack X24 Treadmill unlocks every iFIT feature. There’s nothing another iFIT treadmill can do that the X24 can’t—well, actually, it can’t fold. But still, it is a powerful treadmill with an extraordinary incline range. It inclines from -6%to 40%, only matched by its sister treadmill, the X16.
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
The NordicTrack X24 Treadmill inclines to 40%, a grade that’s beyond challenging.
There is no other treadmill as suited to gearing up for a hike or intense trail run as the NordicTrack X24 unless we are talking about the X16. Yet, the X24 has a larger touchscreen display that makes you feel like you are already on the trail!
NordicTrack’s incline treadmills are dominant in the home fitness space for their incline capabilities. You need a tall ceiling to accommodate this beast. I recommend a ceiling height of 3’ taller than the tallest treadmill user in the household. The X24 is heavy and does not fold, so consider storing it in a permanent location on the ground floor.
The X24 has a powerful 4.25 CHP motor with a lifetime warranty. The deck is a spacious 22” x 60”. So, no matter what you throw at the X24, it is prepared to carry you through it! The X24 is great for long-distance running, hiking, and other forms of intense training. It’s a residential treadmill, but it can handle a lot of daily use.
I’ve been using the X24 treadmill a lot, and it’s not just because it has a nice incline range. I also like the soft cushioning that provides a break from the pounding of training on the pavement outside or firmer treadmills. I can run my longest runs on the X24 with a gentler impact. That makes a huge difference to my training, and it can make a big difference in yours, too!
+ PROS
- -6% to 40% incline range
- 4.25 HP motor with lifetime warranty
- Cushioned 22” x 60” running surface
- 24” touchscreen tilts and rotates
- Supportive incline handles
- Sturdy console and frame
– CONS
- Large, non-folding frame
- 9’+ ceiling recommended
- Very expensive compared to other iFIT machines
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack X24i Treadmill Here
NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
Want to save a little money compared to the previous entries on this list? The NordicTrack EXP 10i is one of the best entry points to iFIT training. It has the same training content you will find on any iFIT treadmill and most of the same features. I like it most for walkers, but some runners will also find the EXP 10i suitable.
NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
The NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill is one of the most affordable treadmills from NordicTrack.
The NordicTrack 1750 and X24 may seem like the “serious runner” treadmills, but there’s a case to be made for the NordicTrack EXP 10i. Believe it or not, I only run about a third of my mileage on the treadmill, though it fluctuates from week to week. Because I run outside so often, a treadmill like the NordicTrack EXP 10i is a more practical fit for my training routine.
The EXP 10i makes a great treadmill for a backup option when you can’t run outdoors, for daily walks while training with iFIT, and for starting a new fitness routine. Its 10” touchscreen shows every iFIT class, just like the rest of the treadmills with touchscreens on this list. However, it also has a tablet rack to give you even more content-viewing options.
Designed with a folding frame, the NordicTrack EXP 10i has hydraulic assistance for unfolding. The deck is also fairly light, so it is easier to fold up compared to the NordicTrack Commercial series treadmills (1250, 1750, and 2450). It weighs only about 200 lbs, considering its 230-lb shipping weight. It is one of the easiest iFIT treadmills to transport.
The motor is 2.75 CHP, which is less than what we prefer (3.0 HP) for a running treadmill. The deck is also only 55” long, so it may be too short for some runners to train comfortably. I like the EXP 10i most for slower runs. Its speed maxes out at 10 mph.
The NordicTrack EXP 10i will appeal to treadmill shoppers looking for a more affordable option to use with the iFIT training platform.
+ PROS
- 0 to 12% incline range
- Soft cushioned deck
- iFIT automatic speed and incline adjustments
- Tablet rack
- Bluetooth heart rate and headphone connectivity
- Folding frame
– CONS
- Not as suited to running as other iFIT treadmills
- 10 mph maximum speed
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill Here
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
A treadmill without a touchscreen and with a tablet rack feels a little more freeing, in my opinion. I love iFIT, but I sometimes follow Zwift or Peloton workouts instead. Call me a traitor, but I get it if you don’t want to commit to iFIT forever or want the option to train a different way. If this resonates with you, the ProForm Carbon TLX might be your best bet.
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
The ProForm Carbon TLX doesn’t have iFIT built into the console, but it pairs with the iFIT app on your phone or tablet for automatic speed and incline adjustments.
The ProForm Carbon TLX is well-designed and simple, which I typically don’t see in iFIT treadmills. It has a low-tech console with a bright digital display. It uses a BYOD (bring your own device) approach, allowing you to access iFIT on your phone or tablet instead of paying more for a touchscreen.
The deck is firmer than other iFIT treadmills from ProForm and NordicTrack. However, it feels sturdy and smooth underfoot. I like the increased shock absorption compared to running outside without an overly bouncy underfoot feel. Most importantly, the deck is 20″ x 60″, perfect for running.
The TLX has a 0 to 12% incline range and a 0 to 12 mph speed range. When iFIT is connected, these performance settings will adjust to your class. You don’t have access to the ActivePulse technology, but it’s a decent tradeoff for the TLX’s lower price. It also requires an aux cord to use the speakers because they are not Bluetooth.
The ProForm Carbon TLX is a folding treadmill. It has hydraulic assistance to help you raise and lower the deck. The folding mechanism feels on par with the other treadmills in ProForm’s lineup, which I appreciate because many brands skimp on this feature on their more affordable machines.
+ PROS
- Priced just under $1k
- Pairs with the iFIT app on phones and tablets
- Folding frame with hydraulic assistance
- 0 to 12% incline and 0 to 12 mph speed range
- Automatic speed and incline adjustments with iFIT
- Spacious running deck
– CONS
- iFIT is not built in, so you have to provide your own device.
- The TLX may be firmer than some shoppers are looking for.
Read Our Full Review Of The ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill Here
Matrix TF50 Treadmill
Matrix may be better known for its commercial treadmills, but it also makes residential equipment. Matrix has partnered with iFIT to deliver premium training content on its touchscreen displays. The Matrix TF50 Treadmill has more third-party apps than the other iFIT treadmills. This sturdy treadmill has an intense and durable build that will remind you of a gym treadmill.
Matrix TF50 Treadmill
Matrix TF50 Treadmill has multiple console options, including large touchscreen displays with training and entertainment content from apps like iFIT and Netflix.
The Matrix TF50 has third-party apps galore, including Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify. My favorites are Kindle, Instagram, and Hulu. For more options, the treadmill has an HDMI port that allows you to mirror any content you want from your device. A subscription may be required by a specific app but not by Matrix. You don’t have to be an iFIT member or Matrix subscriber.
To view these apps, you must opt for the TF50 version with the XUR, XIR, or XER, which are 22 inches, 16 inches, and 10 inches, respectively. The least expensive version of the console is the XR, but this is an 8.5-inch LCD, which is incompatible with entertainment or training apps.
The Matrix TF50 is a premium treadmill at a matching price point. It has a 20″ x 60″ running deck and a 3.25 HP motor. Based on the price point, Matrix’s reputation, and our testing of Matrix products, we think the TF50 will last longer and perform better than other 3.25 HP motors. Yet, I would have liked a stronger motor or an AC motor on this expensive treadmill.
The TF50 has a 400-lb weight capacity and weighs 265 lbs due to its durable steel frame. Matrix covers the TF50 with a lifetime warranty on the frame, motor, and cushioning. It is a folding treadmill with a nearly 90-degree folding deck and four transport wheels for easy relocation.
iFIT owns several treadmill brands, but Matrix does not fall under that umbrella. Instead, Matrix has partnered with iFIT to offer iFIT content on its machines. This partnership combines a near-commercial grade build with one of the most popular treadmill training platforms.
The incline range is from 0 to 15% while the speed reaches 12.5 mph for great variability during your iFIT training. iFIT is only one of the training options on the TF50. This treadmill also offers onboard content like those traditionally found on gym treadmills and Sprint 8. Thus, this powerful Matrix treadmill performs as well as it entertains.
+ PROS
- The Matrix TF50 has third-party apps from Netflix, Instagram, Kindle, and more.
- The TF50 supports iFIT for fun, trainer-led content.
- An HDMI port lets users mirror their smart devices onto the touchscreen display.
- The TF50 offers several different console sizes to fit everyone’s needs.
- The deck inclines to 15%.
– CONS
- The Matrix TF50 is a very expensive treadmill with only a 3.25 HP motor.
- The most affordable console option does not support third-party apps.
Read Our Full Review Of The Matrix TF50 Treadmill Here
What is iFIT?
iFIT is a digital fitness platform and the parent company of several fitness brands: NordicTrack, ProForm, and Freemotion. Matrix partners with the brand. iFIT enables users to subscribe to one platform for multiple types of equipment. If you want to run, walk, cycle, row, or elliptical, iFIT’s got you! There are even off-equipment classes for yoga and strength training.
With thousands of trainer-led classes from over a hundred coaches, iFIT has enough content to last you a lifetime. On the treadmill, you can follow these coaches to distant locales to scope out the trails while the speed adjusts to your fitness level and the incline adjusts to the real-life terrain shown on the screen.
SmartAdjust allows the treadmill to scale iFIT workouts to your fitness level. Any time you manually override the iFIT presets, it will adjust that workout and all future workouts accordingly.
ActivePulse provides a more dynamic adjustment. Simply pair a heart rate monitor and activate the feature to allow the treadmill to adjust the speed and incline to keep you in the right heart rate zone. You can also set a maximum speed limit to prevent iFIT from going too fast, even if your heart rate remains low.
iFIT now offers entertainment apps, and while the exact apps offered might change, we’ve really enjoyed using Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify on these machines. You can use the apps while training in an iFIT workout or on their own.
If you don’t want to train in an iFIT class, you can create a custom workout. You can create a target workout for time or distance. You can also customize an interval workout. In the same tab, you will find preset workouts that are not trainer-led. They show the manual training screen: a 400m track.
A few other notable features from iFIT include Feed.fm radio, which includes genre and decade stations. The music is always up to date. Whenever I train with iFIT, I hear newly released songs I haven’t had a chance to hear elsewhere.
While most of the classes are in English, iFIT now offers AI translation and captions in multiple languages during their classes. iFIT also allows you to control the trainer and music volume separately.
iFIT classes are also available as part of training series or challenges to keep you motivated multiple days in a row. All of these features converge to create one exciting digital fitness platform.
Factors To Consider When Finding the Best iFIT Treadmill
Where to Train
iFIT is more than just a treadmill training service. iFIT provides thousands of classes from training on and off the treadmill. If you plan to use iFIT for strength and yoga classes, you might want to place your treadmill where you will have plenty of space around it to perform these moves.
Of course, you can download the iFIT app to a compatible smart device (phone, tablet, or television). Some iFIT treadmills, like the Commercial series from NordicTrack, allow users to pivot and tilt their screens for easier off-treadmill viewing.
While you do not have to use your treadmill screen for non-treadmill training, I advise creating a workout space setup that enables you to get the most out of your iFIT training.
Treadmill Specs
iFIT has some impressive features. I like the automatic adjustment of the speed and incline. The incline is particularly helpful in helping me feel like I am really out on the trail with the iFIT trainer. I get the most out of iFIT using a treadmill with incline and decline capabilities, but not every user will need these features. Consider how this might change your style of training.
Other features like a larger running deck and motor allow you to run and walk, while smaller treadmills are better suited to walking only. The treadmill you choose could determine how enjoyable you find the iFIT platform. Larger screen sizes feel more immersive, but smaller screens are more affordable. Regardless of which treadmill you choose, ensure it is the right fit.
Subscription Service Loyalty
iFIT is one of the most versatile training platforms. iFIT has content for treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and rowers. You will not have to buy an additional subscription if you buy more iFIT cardio equipment. This is important to consider if you are looking at cardio equipment that is not very iFIT compatible.
For users trying to replace their gym membership in the most budget-friendly way, it may be best to consider only iFIT equipment to keep all your equipment on the same subscription or go with a competing brand altogether.
Some of these treadmills are better suited to unsubscribing from iFIT than others. So, if you love the products but aren’t sure you will be loyal to iFIT long-term, consider treadmills like the NordicTrack EXP 7i or the Matrix TF50.
Bottom Line – Best iFIT Treadmill
iFIT is an amazing and exciting training platform. Finding the best treadmill is about more than the training platform, so we hope you keep your specific training plans and performance goals in mind when deciding on the right one. Fortunately, iFIT is available on a diverse set of machines.
Whether you want to walk or run, iFIT has options. There are large, non-folding treadmills and extremely compact treadmills. iFIT treadmills have smart features like touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. Many iFIT treadmills also have softly cushioned decks and impressive inclines. iFIT provides trainer-led content from top trainers in locations around the world.
Say goodbye to your gym membership because iFIT has just about everything you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is iFIT?
iFIT is $39/month for five users. You can also subscribe annually or for two years for a discount. The year plan is $396, while the two-year plan is $699. The ProForm+ program is a three-year iFIT membership for $1403, and you get one free piece of equipment from the ProForm+ eligible products.
Is NordicTrack the same as iFIT?
iFIT is NordicTrack’s parent company, and the digital fitness platform is supported by smart NordicTrack equipment. NordicTrack sells quality home fitness cardio machines, while iFIT is better known for creating trainer-led classes that can be viewed on these machines. iFIT also owns ProForm and Freemotion.
What’s the difference between iFIT and Peloton?
iFIT focuses on outdoor trainer-led content for treadmills, rowers, ellipticals, and exercise bikes, whereas Peloton is better known for its music-driven studio classes. Peloton has classes on treadmills, rowers, and exercise bikes. Both platforms have off-equipment classes. Peloton’s top tier is more expensive than iFIT, but Peloton does have more affordable alternatives.
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