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Editor’s Note: The NordicTrack X9i is currently in closeout, which means it will soon be unavailable. We suggest viewing the NordicTrack X22i as the best alternative, or view our Best Incline Treadmills list for more options.
Incline treadmills are a popular choice for those looking to add treadmills to their home gyms, and with good reason. Walking at an incline can burn more calories than walking on a flat surface, it can build leg muscles, and it can also get you great heart-pumping cardio all without having to run.
While discontinued now, the NordicTrack X9i incline trainer is still a really great option if you are looking for second-hand equipment. The older model will be easier on your budget but still have all those great features and quality NordicTrack offers. In our NordicTrack X9i review, we will tell you all about this machine as well as offer alternatives.
We Know NordicTrack Treadmills
We spend our workouts testing the latest and greatest equipment for you. This means not only have we tested the best NordicTrack treadmills, but machines from other leading brands as well. You can trust we know quality, and as always our reviews are our own and 100% honest. We look for the most user-friendly equipment so you can have the best treadmill for your home gym.
Looking for an Alternative to the NordicTrack X9i?
With the X9i being discontinued, a great alternative is the NordicTrack X22i. It has the same great incline range but with a significantly larger screen and motor. It’s an upgraded version of the X9i with amazing technology like Bluetooth headphone connectivity.
With a 4.0 CHP motor, this is great for serious runners, it can sustain consistent running use without wearing the motor out quickly. Additionally the so-called “WhisperQuiet” technology keeps your run as noiseless as possible.
Best Alternative to the NordicTrack X9i
If you’re looking for an immersive training experience on a club-quality treadmill, the NordicTrack X22i may be a good fit for you. With a fully rotating and tilting 22-inch touchscreen and access to iFIT, you’re able to choose from thousands of live and on-demand workouts that will meet the fitness needs of beginners and advanced athletes alike. The integration of Google Maps enables you to choose a location anywhere in the world to train. With an impressive incline range of -6% to a whopping 40% incline, you can mimic the terrain of any outdoor location you choose.The X22i features auto-adjust technology, which allows iFIT trainers to automatically adjust your speed and incline for a hands-free workout. Or, use your heart rate to guide your workout with the ActivePulse technology. With this, you can connect a Bluetooth heart rate monitor, which will automatically adjust incline or speed to keep you in your designated training zone. A heart rate monitor is not included. There are no pre-programmed workouts on the X22i and a membership to iFIT is required to access workouts.With this treadmill, rest assured that you are getting a high-quality and durable cardio machine. Equipped with a 4.0 CHP, the X22i supports speeds from 0 to 12 miles per hour on a fully cushioned, roomy 22-inch-wide by 60-inch-long running surface. Featuring an AutoBreeze fan, integrated console tray, upgraded Bluetooth technology, premium 30-watt speakers, one-touch controls, and a lower step-up height, the X22i is a solid choice for anyone with the space. It is large and heavy so requires a dedicated spot. Consider ceiling height as well if you plan on using the maximum incline.
A Quick Look at the NordicTrack X9i
While we haven’t personally been able to use this machine, we have used several others from this line. In fact, we have treadmill reviews on the X22i and the X32i. Therefore, we have a great idea of what you can expect from this machine.
With an industry-leading 40% incline, you can get a serious calorie burning workout on the X9i, or set the decline to -6% and switch up how you work your leg muscles. The X9i has all the creature comforts, including two AutoBreeze fans that automatically adjust to the intensity of your workout, an adjustable tablet holder, internet browsing, and different ways to connect your music.
Pros:
- 44 built-in workouts
- iFIT-compatible
- Adjustable tablet holder
- Audio jack
- Two 3” speakers
- Spacious running surface
- AutoBreeze workout fans
- Full-color 7” HD touchscreen
- USB charging port
- Wireless heart rate monitoring
Cons:
- Does not fold
- Large footprint
- Belt speed is limited during decline
NordicTrack X9i Incline Trainer Treadmill Specs
| Footprint | 70.2″ L x 39.6″ W x 71.6″ H |
| Weight | 390 lbs |
| User Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Motor | 3.0 CHP |
| Walking Belt | 60” L x 22” W |
| Display | 7” touchscreen |
| Incline | -6% to 40% |
| Speed | 0-12 MPH |
| Programs | 44 built-in, iFIT-compatible |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame; 5 years parts; 2 years labor |
Key Features of the NordicTrack X9i
The large belt on the NordicTrack X9i means you can power walk with long strides in comfort. Adding to the comfort is the Reflex Cushioning that NordicTrack incline trainers have. This cushioning mimics the spring that asphalt has to help not be so harsh on your joints.
With 44 built-in workout programs, iFIT personal trainers at your fingertips, and Google Maps running you can customize any workout to your fitness goals, you can do a lot on this machine. There are two handlebars at different angles that include heart rate monitors as well as a wireless heart rate monitoring chest strap if you prefer to be hands free.
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Footprint, Portability, and Durability
As with most NordicTrack incline treadmills, the technology that allows for seamless transitions between inclines does not support folding. At 70 inches long and nearly 40 inches wide, this machine is going to take up a good bit of space in your home gym.
Weighing close to 400 pounds also means once you set this treadmill up, it’s unlikely you’ll move it. The 3.0 CHP motor on this model is ideal for those who want to walk, jog, or go for a serious run.
RELATED: Best NordicTrack Treadmills
Ergonomics
I’ve mentioned the WhisperQuiet technology, and while it won’t make this treadmill completely silent it can reduce excess noise. The Reflex Cushioning is easier on your joints than other treadmills, and the wide tread belt adds to the stability as well as accommodates tall users.
There are two accessory consoles for water bottles and anything else you may need to keep close. This model also automatically changes your incline while you are running if you have it connected to iFIT Coach.
Technology Benefits and Conveniences
With a smart-phone compatible charging port and two 3-inch speakers, the X9i is great for playing your music or listening to the iFIT instructors. The adjustable tablet holder means you can watch your shows and videos if that’s your thing no matter what angle you are climbing.
The 7-inch full color HD touchscreen display also has web browsing capabilities. There is also enhanced WiFi connectivity so you can browse the web or check your emails with ease. However, this screen is significantly smaller than the standard today, so if a treadmill with a large screen is something important to you, know that you have plenty of other options.
Customer Reviews of the NordicTrack X9i
Being discontinued, you won’t find many reviews of this machine on Amazon or Google, so I did a little deeper digging for you and went to YouTube comments. Most customers liked the ease of use and how the incline automatically adjusts for you. They also mentioned that it comes preloaded with two free maps on iFIT.
The biggest downside a lot of people were mentioning was that you cannot see your stats while in a Google Maps workout. If you want to see your stats, they said you had to completely exit out of the video and go back in. If you are someone who likes to keep track of those things, that might be something to consider.
Final Verdict of Our NordicTrack X9i Review
Though discontinued, the X9i model shows how NordicTrack has been consistent with high-quality fitness equipment. Perfect for someone who wants to power walk or jog at an incline, the many work app options help you switch things up and stay consistent.
Newer incline training models aren’t going to be as easy on the wallet as a second-hand X9i, but NordicTrack always has great financing options to help.
NordicTrack X9i Rating
NordicTrack X9i
In our NordicTrack X9i review, we take a look at the specs of this now-discontinued treadmill.
Product Currency: 4
Product Price: 3499
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.3
NordicTrack X9i FAQs
Can you run on the NordicTrack X9i?
With a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor, you can run on the X9i. If you are a serious incline runner, the NordicTrack X22i is going to be a better option for you with bigger motors and more horsepower.
How much does the NordicTrack X9i weigh?
The NordicTrack X9i comes in at around 400 pounds.
Are NordicTrack treadmills any good?
NordicTrack treadmills are known for quality for a good reason. With great features like WhisperQuiet deck and iFIT training options, the brand has clearly shown that they know what the customer wants. Their treadmills offer quality and all the up to date tech you want in your machine.
Is the NordicTrack x32i worth it?
With reviews rating this the best overall luxury treadmill, the NordicTrack X32i is worth the price tag. With the great quality we’ve come to expect from NordicTrack and an HD touchscreen with enhanced WiFi connectivity, it really has it all.
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