NordicTrack Elite
Commercial Elliptical Review
There are two reasons to consider the NordicTrack Elite Commercial elliptical trainer. First, it is a heavy-duty machine. Second, it is equipped with a power incline feature.
NordicTrack is owned by Icon, which is the largest fitness equipment manufacturer is the world. In the past, they were known for budget brands like ProForm, Weslo and Image. Recently they have been upgrading and improving the equipment in their NordicTrack line-up. And the results have been impressive.
Note: As of 12/30/08 the NordicTrack Elite Commercial was selling for $1,999 with shipping. Go to
www.NordicTrack.com
for the latest price.
Being a billion dollar plus business, Icon has the resources and most importantly the research and development to compete aggressively in the higher-end market. The Elite Commercial is their latest example.
Features of the NordicTrack Elite Commercial.
Power Incline - Personally, I own an elliptical, and I wish it had a power incline feature. Like the incline on a treadmill, it adds a new dimension to your workout. There are two benefits to the power incline. First, it kicks up your cardio and helps you to burn more fat. You increase the intensity of your workout. Second, as you adjust the incline you can focus your exercise on different parts of your leg muscles, like your glutes, calves and quads.
Solid and Stable - Although NordicTrack never lists the unit weight of their ellipticals, you can tell this is a heavy machine. That contributes to the stability, as does the fact that this elliptical is very long footprint. The downside it is a space hog.
iFit Technology - When I was at the corporate headquarters I asked if the iFit technology was popular with their customers. The answer was an affirmative yes. In fact, they have an iFit web site that has forums where users compare notes and ask questions.
iFit is exercise programs designed by personal trainers. You purchase cards that you insert into the machine. The level of exertion is controlled, and there is audio coaching. There are different categories of workouts that focus on different goals like weight loss or performance. Within the categories, you have different levels of progress. You start at the beginning and work you way up. Just as if you had a personal trainer.
16 Personal Trainer Workouts and 2 Learn Programs - In addition to the iFit technology there are 16 built-in programs that offer a variety of exercises and challenges. I find changing workouts helps to break-up the monotony of exercising in place. You can create your own workout with the 2 learn programs.
Console and Display - I'm not overwhelmed with the display, but it is functional. What I do like are the numerous buttons on the console that give you simple and easy access to functions and features. Regarding heart rate control, it includes wireless heart rate control. The resistance of the machine can be controlled by a heart rate sensor that you wear around your chest. Many swear by this method of exercising.
Warranty - The warranty on the NordicTrack Elite Commercial is average. However, considering the price of this elliptical, and the fact that NordicTrack offers bargains on extended warranties, I would opt for another year or two of coverage.
Our Review - NordicTrack Elite Commercial Elliptical Trainer
I know that other manufacturers that compete in this price range are getting worried. Icon Fitness, the parent company of NordicTrack is making serious inroads into this segment of the market and will muscle in on the competition. The Elite Commercial is a perfect example. Not only is it a solid and sturdy machine with a smooth and quiet stride, it is equipped with some impressive features like the power incline.
My only issue is that they refer to this elliptical as "Commercial". When I think commercial, I think of Precor or LifeFitness models, which cost in excess of $4,000. I'm not sure how this elliptical would hold up under the daily stress of a health club, but it should do very well in your home.
To learn more go to www.NordicTrack.com