NordicTrack T 6.5 S Review

Like on most NordicTrack treadmills, you get a wide variety of workouts to choose from, for a total of 20 programs. Those include incline training, intervals, time/calorie/distance goals, cardio and many others.

Plus you can access a full library of additional workouts through the company’s patented iFit technology.

This is an exclusive subscription based program that gives you access to personal trainers around the world that guide you through personalized workouts in a gym or outdoor setting.

So you can literally choose a different workout every single day, and never repeat the same routine. Compare this to the typical 5 or 10 workouts you get on other entry level treadmills and you can see how the T6.5S stands out.

One of the most anticipated upgrades on the new T 6.5 S is the large 10″ touch screen display (which it shares with the up-level T 8.5 S), something not typically found on an entry level treadmill, or even most advanced machines for that matter.

On it you can access all of your workout information and make changes with the swipe of a finger, and access all of the great features of iFit Coach, including Google map running trails anywhere in the world.

Just choose a location and it’s as if you are actually there, running through the streets of Paris or hiking up the Andes mountains.

The NordicTrack T 6.5Si features SpaceSaver design, allowing you to fold the treadmill up after a workout with the touch of a button.

Typically machines in this price range have very cumbersome folding procedures, but the T 6.5 S makes it very easy for you with its simple hydraulic system.

One of the neat features on this treadmill, also something you don’t typically find at this price point, is FlexSelect cushioning.

You can choose the amount of cushioning for your walk, jog or run to fit your needs, and vary it from one workout to the next.

You can turn it off to replicate a true outdoor run, or turn it on to give yourself more cushioning and support to minimize impact on your knees and joints.

This is great for those times you want to feel like you are outdoors but the weather just isn’t cooperating.

As we mentioned above, the NordicTrack T 6.5Si is very well priced, especially if you can find it on sale for under $1500.

Touch screen display, incline capability, iFit Coach, advanced cushioning, lots of workouts and a strong warranty…you’d have to pay at least $2,000 to find that elsewhere.

The NordicTrack T 6.5 Si comes with a 2.6 CHP DurX motor, which isn’t really strong enough to handle much heavier workouts.

If you are more of a runner, you might want to look at the more advanced T 8.5 S or T 9.5 S treadmills, which have stronger motors, larger running surfaces and enhanced features.

The T 6.5 S tops out at 10 mph and 10 degrees of incline. Although this is fine for most beginners and casual users, it might not be enough for those who want to do more intense training.

If you are a more serious user, look for a treadmill with at least 12 mph top speed and 15 levels of incline.

It might not sound like a big jump, but those extra speeds and ramp levels make a big difference when it comes to your training.

Although the FlexSelect cushioning is great for deciding whether you want more or less support, the belt itself is on the smaller side and may not be ideal for taller users.

The T 6.5S has a 20″ x 55″ running surface, which is typical for an entry-level treadmill, but if you are on the taller side you may find it a bit cramped.

If that sounds like you again look at the T 7.5 S or T 8.5 S, as both have 20″ x 60″ running belts.

The NordicTrack T 6.5Si is a solid entry level treadmill, and it certainly has plenty of features and capabilities that you don’t always find at this price point.

You have a nice cushioned deck, incline, a large number of workouts, iFit technology, touch screen, SpaceSaver design, easy folding capability, music integration and a decent 300 lb. max weight capacity.

On the flip side, you have a relatively weak motor, smaller running area and lower max speed and incline, so it’s not really built for anything more than walking and perhaps light jogging.

However, if you’re not planning on doing any serious training, and just want a basic machine for burning calories, losing weight and toning up the leg muscles, the NordicTrack T 6.5S will suffice.

Also look at the upper level NordicTrack T Series treadmills, and the Commercial Series if you want something even more advanced.