NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical Review (2024)

Name: NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical
Price: 1499 $
Availability: InStock

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.

Editor’s Note: The NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 as the best alternative, or view our Best NordicTrack Ellipticals for more options.

The NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical is a popular machine that has served many home gym users over the years since it was first released in 2012. This machine could be considered an entry-level machine that beginners could use to start their fitness journeys. It could also be beneficial for those who are taking on a weight loss transformation.

This machine has been discontinued in favor of more recent models such as the AirGlide 14i and the FS14i. However, we feel a NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical review was still in order in case you find it secondhand or want a similar machine. So, we are going to break down all the pros, cons, and everything in between so you have the best information possible should you have a chance to score this elliptical for your garage gym.

We Know Ellipticals

Our team at Garage Gym Reviews is made up of fitness experts, certified personal trainers, athletes, and home gym owners who want the best for their equipment, just like you would. That’s why everyone at GGR commits themselves to studying, researching, and using the equipment we do reviews on.

We also understand the value of a hard-earned dollar, and we want you to be assured you’re investing your money into the best products possible when you hit that order button. Take what you learn from this review and combine that knowledge with your personal needs so you have the most dependable equipment in your garage gym or personal workout space.

Looking for an Alternative to the NordicTrack A.C.T.?

Best Alternative to NordicTrack A.C.T.

NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical

GGR Score: 3.6

Check Price

Product Highlights

7” smart HD Touchscreen
Water bottle holder, dual 2” digitally amplified speakers
AutoBreeze workout fan, oversized cushioned pedals
22 levels of digital resistance and up to a 20% incline
Constructed with heavy-duty solid steel

Pros

Programming options
iFIT enabled
Quiet
Sturdy build
30 pre-programmed workouts
Incline options

Cons

Stride length is small for a commercial elliptical
Requires a 4-year iFIT membership
Heavy

Intended for commercial use, the Commercial 9.9 Elliptical is a sturdy treadmill that offers interactive programming through its required 4-year membership to iFIT.

If you’re looking to move on from the A.C.T, or if you want a machine that would also be worthy of your workout space, then check out the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9.

Like the A.C.T, it would also be great for home gyms. It can accommodate multiple family members who train, is easy to move if necessary, and even has financing options for people that are trying to work with a limited budget. Like the A.C.T., it has magnetic resistance, 22 levels of resistance. Also, this machine has a 7-inch HD touchscreen you can use to stream iFIT workouts.

A Quick Look at the NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical

The NordicTrack A.C.T. is a center-drive elliptical, which is different from more traditional front-drive or rear-drive machines. This means the drive system that makes it function is on either side of the machine. The A.C.T. does support the iFIT app, which is also owned by NordicTrack. If you want to burn calories without the impact that you may feel from a treadmill, then the A.C.T. is worthy of consideration.

Pros:

Strong weight capacity
Adjustable stride length
Long warranty
Close foot pedals
Compact

Cons:

Incline is not available
No touchscreen
Wireless internet needed for iFIT

NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical Specs

Footprint	54” L x 31.5” W x 64.25” H
Weight	231 lbs
Weight capacity	350 lbs
Flywheel	23 lbs
Stride length	18”-22”
Incline	None
Resistance options	22
Preset programs	26
Interactive programming	Yes, iFIT
Warranty	3 years parts, 1 year labor

Key Features of the NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical

While the NordicTrack ACT isn’t the most technologically advanced elliptical, it is simple to operate. One noteworthy feature that does make it stand out is that the pedals are surrounded on the sides. This can prevent anything from interfering with the motion while you’re exercising. There are also dual CardioGrip heart rate monitor sensors on the handles.

Footprint, Portability, and Durability

The NordicTrack A.C.T. Commercial Elliptical weighs 231 pounds, and it stands over 5 feet tall with a width of 4.5 feet. Because it has a center-drive design, it’s a smaller machine than many other ellipticals, but it is still a big piece of equipment. It does have transport wheels, so it can be moved if necessary. However, you might want to make sure that the space you use for it won’t be used for many other needs.

The machine will support a user weight of up to 350 pounds, which makes it a very durable elliptical. Thanks to the moving handles, you will get an upper-body workout as well as a lower-body and calorie-burning session.

Ergonomics

The A.C.T.’s strides can be adjusted, but it has to be done manually. You turn the knob clockwise while pulling the pedal back. It has 22 different digital resistance levels, which can challenge fitness enthusiasts of all levels. The 23-pound flywheel helps provide a smooth motion when you’re using it. So, you can focus on burning as many calories as possible throughout your workout.

The motion of the machine and working handlebars can benefit both people looking to lose weight as well as cross trainers and serious athletes. There is also a workout fan to help keep you cool while you train. Just don’t have it pointed directly at your face if you wear contact lenses as it may cause them to dry out.

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

The silent magnetic resistance makes this a very quiet machine. So, you can train hard without bothering others. You can build your own workouts and follow your own journey with the help of Google Maps, or you can choose one of the 26 preset workout programs that are included. Ten of those are focused on calorie counting while eight others emphasize HIIT training.

The console isn’t touchscreen, and it’s pretty basic, but it does include a backlit display to help you see the screen and buttons. Aside from compatibility with iFIT, it’s also iPod-compatible.

As for conveniences, there is a tablet holder for your smart device. If you purchase this elliptical for home use, you will need wireless internet to access all of the features that are offered by iFIT such as the iFIT Coach.

Final Verdict of Our NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical Review

The NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical is a space-saving cardio machine that may not have the greatest advancements in technology, but it’s a very reliable machine that will last you for many workouts to come as you work to achieve your own personal fitness success. Fitness equipment such as ellipticals can take a home gym to a new level, and if you’re able to get your hands on one of these, you’ll find it the value to match the investment.

NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical Rating

NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical

In our NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical review, we break down the specs of this machine and offer alternatives.

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 1499

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4

NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical

Footprint and portability – 4.5

Durability – 4

Customizations – 3.5

Adjustability and ergonomics – 4

Tech capabilities – 3.5

Conveniences – 4

Value – 4.5

NordicTrack Commercial 9.9

NordicTrack A.C.T. Elliptical Review FAQs

How old is NordicTrack A.C.T.?

The NordicTrack A.C.T. was first released in 2012, and it was initially well-received by the fitness community. As of this writing, it’s no longer in production, but if you were able to get your hands on one through an online source or by someone in your area selling it, it would be a solid asset to have for your cardio training needs.

How much does a NordicTrack A.C.T. weigh?

The NordicTrack A.C.T. weighs 231 pounds fully assembled, and it has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. This is comparable to other ellipticals in the market. You may want to make sure that wherever you use it will be a suitable permanent place, but it’s a very solid machine that will show it is worth the footprint that comes with it.

Are NordicTrack ellipticals good?

NordicTrack elliptical trainers are dependable and reliable equipment that would be a solid fit for most home gym owners. The brand offers have free stride trainers as well as front-drive machines such as the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i and Commercial 9.9. The brand’s current lineup is all iFIT-enabled.

Roger Lockridge

Roger "Rock" Lockridge has worked in the fitness industry for 20 years in a variety of roles, including as a personal trainer, fitness class instructor, supplement advisor, nutritionist, and most notably as a writer since 2009. He has contributed to numerous fitness brands, including Men's Health, Muscle & Fitness, BarBend, Bodybuilding.com, and Iron Man Magazine, sharing information on training, nutrition, supplementation, motivation, profiles on world-class athletes, and strength sports news.He has also competed in various bench press contests and the Arnold Sports Festival's 5K Pump & Run three times. He has been training in his home gym full-time since 2015. His personal transformation story has been featured by Men's Health, Bodybuilding.com, and others.