The NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer – Built For Burning Up Calories

The NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer is an advanced treadmill that features a 7" backlit display, 40% incline and -3% decline cushioned deck. This big stepper lets you get a cardio-blasting workout to burn off excess calories at a faster rate.

The Machine

The NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer has a high-resolution display that shows your workout graphically as well as tracks your speed, time, distance, pulse, and calories burned. You can access iFit Coach technology via your phone or tablet for entertaining workouts through interesting landscapes.

The specs on the NordicTrack X7i include:

• 2.75 CHP DurX™ Commercial Motor
• 0 - 12 mph 1-Touch™ Speed
• 0% - 40% 1-Touch™ Incline
• 0% to -3% 1-Touch™ Decline
• 22" x 60" Tread belt
• 7" backlit display
• 38 built-in workouts
• iFit® Bluetooth enabled
• iPod/mp3 compatible sound system
• CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor/Chest Strap
• Reflex™ Cushioning
• Dual AutoBreeze Workout Fan
• 325-lb. User Capacity
• Warranty: Lifetime frame, motor, deck; 5 year parts & electronics; 2 year labor

The Buzz

UPDATE: It looks like the X7i Incline Trainer was discontinued in 2017.  Take a look at our Top Incline Trainer picks to find a comparable model.

The NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer has a 2.75 CHP motor, which is decent for an incline trainer but not as strong as the one on the other models. Other components include the 2.5" precision-machined rollers, and a composite construction deck with shock absorbing Reflex™ Cushioning.

Of the four incline trainers currently offered by NordicTrack, the X7i is the least expensive.  It is also the only one without a web-enabled touchscreen.  For that you'll have to upgrade to at least the X9i Incline Trainer which offers a 7" display with internet capability.

All of the new incline trainers, which were redesigned for the 2017 model year, feature a set of SpeedWeight adjustable dumbbells, which adds an upper body workout to your treadmill routine.  You can use them while you walk or separately, and there are workouts included.

These incline trainers have been used by all of the contestants on The Biggest Loser under the direction of pro trainer Jillian Michaels, which is a big endorsement as to their effectiveness for strengthening the cardiovascular system, increasing endurance, and burning fat. Many new owners of the NordicTrack X7i have noted in their reviews that they bought it because the iFit Coach capability.

The technology allows the user to hike simulated terrain in such exotic locations as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite Park, the Diamond Head Trail in Hawaii, anywhere you want to go via Google map integration. The treadmill automatically adjusts the incline to match the terrain.

If you want a more powerful machine, take a look at the X11i model, which has a 4.25 CHP motor and a 10" touch screen.  

Or to take it to the next level, consider the new X22i top of the line model, which adds a stunning 22" Smart HD display to the mix.

What We Say About the X7i Incline Trainer

Incline trainers are meant for walkers who like steep uphill courses; runners and walkers who prefer a flat workout are advised to buy a traditional treadmill for the same price. Yet, we don’t want to seem overly critical of the NordicTrack X7i in terms of what this machine delivers; it is a physical and demanding workout.

The noise level and cushioning are great, and the power output of both the motor and incline motor can handle the incredible stress of a steep incline at low speeds.

They've also stepped up their warranties too which goes to show you that they are putting a lot more into their construction than they used to. The NordicTrack X7i Incline Trainer at under $1600 is a really great deal for a great machine.