NordicTrack X11i Incline Trainer Review

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NordicTrack has manufactured many generations of fitness machines and their incline trainers are no different. Currently, they’re promoting their x22i and x32i equipment.

The incline trainer is a next level treadmill with endless advantages. But, which one should you choose? Take a look at our NordicTrack x11i review to see if it stands out from the rest.

Incline trainer vs. treadmill

Incline trainers are in fact treadmills but they have more advanced settings and features.

For instance, incline trainers can incline at much higher levels than treadmills. Treadmills typically have an incline range from 0-12% or less, while incline trainers have ranges up to 40% and a decline range.

It’s no secret that uphill walking or running is more challenging than performing on a flat surface. This is because an incline creates resistance. The resistance from an incline trainer activates your muscles more than working out with a 0% grade.

One study demonstrated that with increasing incline, metabolic and mechanical variables increased. These include heart rate, oxygen intake, blood lactate levels, ground reaction force and muscle activity.

The changes in metabolic and mechanical variables due to incline training also increases weight loss. Your body needs to work harder to move uphill and therefore you burn more calories. Even if you’re simply walking, an increased metabolic rate occurs with an increase in speed, grade and gravitational load.

Compact treadmills and folding treadmills are made to fit your home. Unfortunately, commercial incline trainers aren’t made in compact sizes. However, if you have enough space in your home, you can compare it to the size of the machine and see if it would make a good fit.

With extra accessories, features and settings, there’ll be an added cost. Incline trainers are significantly more expensive than treadmills. But, for some people, the above benefits outweigh the difference in price.

NordicTrack x11i review

The x11i came out in 2012 and is still a strong competitor with other models. Because this incline trainer is older, the specifications on the NordicTrack may have not been updated to reflect recent upgrades. Luckily, we’ve done some digging to fill in the gaps.

The NordicTrack x11i incline trainer is a commercial exercise machine. The weight of the machine is not listed but the x22i is the same size and weighs 417 lbs. There are wheels underneath the machine so you may be able to move the trainer around. But, don’t underestimate the size and weight of this one. The size of the tread belt can easily accommodate taller people and longer strides to climb up slopes. To repeat, it’s just a matter on whether or not it fits in your place.

The screen on the console of the NordicTrack x11i is a 14″ smart HD touchscreen. This is a major upgrade from before, as the screen was only 10″. There are 2 x 3″ digitally amplified speakers and bluetooth audio capabilities. So, you can pair your phone and jam to your favorite playlist while training.

There are now 50 built-in workout programs and WiFi connectivity if you want to stream iFit. The powerful 4.0 CHP motor reduces vibration and has a self-cooling system. The deck features NordicTrack Reflex cushioning technology with dampeners that reduces joint impact and it can simulate an outdoor running surface. And to help you stay cool, there are dual fans and 2 water bottle holders. The Google Maps workout technology is compatible with iFit so that you can take your workouts around the globe by choosing a location on the map.

The x11i boasts a large incline range of 0-40% and can decline up to 6%. The speed settings are comparable to other treadmills which range from 0-12mph. During an iFit workout, the speed and incline will be remotely changed so that you go with the flow. And, you can get a full body workout using the sled push mode at 1mph. These settings provide all athletes from any fitness level with versatility.

NordicTrack has a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor, 5 years for parts and electronics and 2 years for labor. This is excellent coverage for the cost of this machine.

The NordicTrack x11i price is $2,999 USD. But, it does come with the 1 year of iFit and free scheduled delivery, which normally would cost $149.

iFit connectivity

With the purchase of the NordicTrack x11i, a 1 year iFit family membership is included. The iFit programs are definitely a highlight that comes with NordicTrack products. With a subscription, you can access more than 16,000 workouts, live workouts and personal training and workouts all over the world.

You can also track your stats and progress and see how you compare to others on the iFit leaderboard. Additionally, iFit workouts are varied as they include yoga, tabata, speed and others. That’s the beauty of the mobile app because iFit can be streamed from anywhere. The value of the 1 year membership, which includes 5 user profiles, is $468 USD. Once the year is over, you can renew your family membership for $33/month or $15/month for 1 person.

Is the NordicTrack x11i price worth it?

We think the NordicTrack x11i has some great specs but we suggest contacting NordicTrack to get the full rundown on current pricing and upgrades. It’s still available in limited quantities on their website. If the NordicTrack x11i price is the same as the x22i, we recommend going with the latter.

If you want one of the newest and advanced incline trainers, we think NordicTrack x22i is definitely the better option. See our complete review for the NordicTrack x22i incline trainer here.

USA Home Gym

USA Home Gym gives in-depth insights into gym equipment, supplements, and fitness training methods. The motivation behind USA Home Gym is to provide you with information that goes beyond what you can find in any user manual, customer review, or other online review sites.

We go to great lengths to ensure that our reviews are completely comprehensive, usually covering everything from the design features to the warranty coverage and exercise options. This is all to help guide you towards the home gym equipment that’s best suited to your goals and budget, whilst also being the highest quality option in your chosen price range.