NordicTrack A.C.T. Pro Elliptical Trainer Review

The NordicTrack A.C.T. center drive elliptical trainer has proven to be so popular they've have come up with several versions of it, each with different electronic features.  The NordicTrack  A.C.T.  Pro is their new release for 2010.  Unique to the Pro version is iFit Live and the Grafixx hi-res display. 

The basic design of the A.C.T. consists of...

18" - 22" Adjustable Stride — The one flaw with an elliptical trainer is you need to find the right model whose stride length suites your physique. For example, taller individuals will want to opt for a longer stride. If you have multiple users at different heights, that can be an issue. With an adjustable stride, individuals can find the right stride and their comfort zone.

The other advantage of an adjustable stride is the fact you can change the stride length and focus your workout on different parts of your lower body. The adjustable stride provides more of a "full body" workout than a standard stride elliptical.

Compact Design - Elliptical trainers can be space hogs. Some models have very long lengths, particularly front wheel designs. Of course, there are some very compact rear wheel designs, but they are usually cheap models that are not very stable. The center design condenses the mechanics and results in a machine that is only 47" long. In comparison, the Sole E95 is 82" in length. The A.C.T. is ideal for apartment and condo dwellers.

Very Stable — Unless you get a very heavy model, many elliptical trainers are not that stable. They may tend to rock, especially during a strenuous workout. The center drive ellipticals have a square base that contributes to a solid, stable feel.

Level Motion — There is some controversy over which is better, a front or rear wheel elliptical trainer design. Now the discussion needs to include center design. Although it is a matter of preference, there are a couple of advantages with the A.C.T. Commercial center design.

First, you are centered over the motion. In comparison to the front design, you tend to have to lean forward when using the handlebars. I find the center design to be more natural in positioning and in the motion of the stride.

Second, I also thought the position of your body in relation to the handlebars gave you a better upper body workout. I have a front drive elliptical, and unless I make a conscious effort to put pressure on the handlebars, my arms tend to just go through the motions. I thought the center drive did a better job of distributing the resistance and the benefits.

Pedal Distance — One additional advantage to the center design of the NordicTrack A.C.T. is the pedal distance. They are closer than many models. This is an attractive feature to females of average to below average height. Many complain about the discomfort of the pedal distance of many front and rear drive ellipticals.

Cooling Fan - According to NordicTrack this feature is very popular with their customers.

Sound System - The sound system is not as good as the premium system on their treadmills, but it is still adequate and convenient. You can plug-in MP3 players.

Warranty - The warranty is 10-year brakes and 1-year parts and labor. I would extend the warranty. The additional cost is reasonable and it protects your investment.

Grafixx Hi-Res Display — This is a backlit display with a higher-resolution graphic display than you will find on other models.  It has the ability to animate your screen.

iFit Live — Newly released, combines a cardio machine with interactive online programming. In my discussions with NordicTrack I know they are pumped about this new technology and have very high expectations. 

The current version of iFit is a series of workout cards that you insert into your elliptical trainer. It controls the resistance of the machine, while providing motivational audio to push you harder. Each card covers eight weeks of progressive training, and focuses on specific fitness goals. The workouts are designed by certified professional trainers.  They are like having your own personal trainer in your home. 

iFit Live takes the iFit technology to a whole new level. First, the cards are gone and instead your treadmill communicates with your computer through wi-fi. (Obviously, if you do not have wi-fi it won't work.) All your workout data like distance run, time, calories burned, etc., is downloaded and tracked on your personal profile page on iFit.com. You also have these additional features...

• With Google Maps™ you can map your own workout route and through your laptop or smart phone you can view your progress with a street, map or satellite view. As you encounter inclines the resistance will increase on your elliptical.
• Race against your Facebook friends.
• Workout with Jillian Michaels. There are workout programs that you can download that include Jilliam Michaels coaching.
• Download workouts suited to your fitness goals.  You input your desired goals and iFit Live will download workouts geared towards those goals.  Life the cards these workouts are design by certified personal trainers and include audio coaching.
• Other features include a nutrition and activity tracker, motivating text messages and emails, and workout videos available for download.

This is the kind of feature that can push people to burn more calories and get into shape. Note, there will be an additional cost for iFit Live.

Our Review - NordicTrack A.C.T. Pro

The basic design of the NordicTrack A.C.T. Pro offers a good center drive cardio machine.  It is one of the least expensive center drive ellipticals on the market.  And as mentioned, it has the advantage of being compact and yet stable.  The adjustable stride is also a nice feature. 

What makes the A.C.T. Pro worth considering is the iFit Live.  This feature can be a great motivator for those who need an extra push to burn the calories.  It also offers the ability to progressively improve your exercise routines.

Between NordicTrack and their sister company, Proform, there are usually several versions of the A.C.T.  You want to get the model that is currently discounted with the features you desire.  They will sometimes take one model and double the price so you think that the model that is selling at a supposedly discount is an exceptional deal. 

At $999 with shipping the NordicTrack A.C.T. is definitely worth considering.  However, this is a machine best suited for moderate residential  use.  It is not commercial grade, but still a good value.

Go to www.NordicTrackEllipticals.com learn more.