Nordictrack X3i Incline Trainer

A great feature about this incline trainer is that it offers a 3D perspective over your workout, which makes the entire experience much more interesting. Also, by pressing repeatedly the Display Mode button, you are allowed to choose whichever mode you find appropriate. The information that will be shown regards:

– Distance (miles or km)
– Approximate number of calories burned/ hour and the approximate number of calories burned
– Speed of the belt (mph or km per hour )
– Incline level
– Elapsed time
– Heart rate (beats per minute)
– Animation of the trail you are running or walking
– Progress of the trail marked with a circle
– On the right side of the console, the number of feet climbed

– 1 Manual Workout

– 9 One Step Calorie Workouts

– Random Trail Workouts (you insert the calorie goal and the treadmill selects the speed and incline for each segment so you can reach that goal). These are the same 9 One Step Calorie Workouts, but re-arranged in a different way.

– iFIT SD cards (workouts) compatible. The Workouts must be bought separately.

After inserting the key into the console, you may opt for either a 1 Step Calorie Workout, a Random Workout or an iFit Workout (if you bought the SD cards, separately from the control).

In either of the cases, the process regards the same steps. After choosing the desired program, you must start the walking belt. The incline trainer will start moving while your hands hold the handrails.

The incline trainer will slow down when the program is closer to the end.

For the preset workouts incline and speed is automatically controlled by the treadmill.

When you wish to stop the program, use the Stop button, and also the Start button when you wish to restart it.

The sophisticated display will enable a complete view over your performance by offering all the necessary information you need.

It is indicated to measure your heart rate at all time.

If the program gets difficult, there is the fan option that you can easily access.

At the end of the program, remove the key from the console.

An important note, the number of calories is given with approximation and it’s just 50% relevant. As long the console doesn’t allow you to enter personal info like age and weight, don’t count on this number.

This equipment allows you to read your heart rate by using the metal contacts on the handrail. Keep your hands still for 15 seconds and you will have accurate heart rate information.

You may listen to the music that motivates you by using this iPod compatibility.

You can also plug in your MP3 and CD player.

You have volume control on the console (up and down buttons).

on/off controls.

The console enables permanent display of the details you need to be aware of: the total distance of the walking belt, the total number of hours that the treadmill has been used, the possibility of distance measurement in miles or kilometers. You can turn on and off the display mode at any time.

In order to select the information mode, press and hold down the Stop button, insert the key and release the button.

To view the distance in miles, choose the English option. To view it in kilometers, select Metric.

You also have the option of changing the contrast level of the display, by pressing the Increase/ Decrease buttons.

The exit from the information mode is done by removing the key from the console.

The Nordictrack Incline Trainer X3i Interactive is a great equipment option if you’re aiming at losing calories and maintaining a daily workout program. You also have to pay attention to its limitations which, unfortunately we experienced too.

If your intention is to enroll onto a marathon, you should reconsider your selection and go for more adequate equipment. This is not a machine you can speed or run with full stride. Not if you’re 65 inches tall.

Our experience proved the efficiency of the incline trainer and the easy steering of its options. The calorie- burning workout is great; it really helps you burn calories! But you never really know how much you’ve burned as the calorie number is given with approximation (maximum 50% accuracy).

A great asset of the trainer is its sound system. Although it may seem a small detail, it definitely matters.

But the truth is that this equipment is prone to accidents or small defections. The iFit card we tested and paid separately did not work and the belt didn’t move, which basically determined us to return it and receive a new one. The second machine worked better, though.

Still, small defections may appear, such as the screws that won’t be screwed in all the way.

On the other hand, it does have a 3D display which is a great asset because it offers great feedback during exercise.

There is one thing that you should keep in mind if you are determined to purchase this incline trainer: make sure there is someone else with you when you install it. The same when you move it. The assemble process is a two-man job, so make sure you won’t bear the burden by yourself. The good news is that the set up instructions are clear.

Also, this is not a folding treadmill. Measure your home space and compare it with treadmills’ dimensions before ordering it.

In conclusion, for $1,400 price, Nordictrack X3i Interactive Incline Trainer appears to be a good selection which we recommend to consider buying ONLY if you find yourself in the details posted above. The same price you pay for the Nordictrack Incline Trainer X3i, which as we said at the beginning are the same prices.

If you want an Incline Trainer, a much better and recommended version is the NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer Treadmill or the Nordictrack X5i Incline Trainer Treadmill. Read these reviews too before leaving the site.