Quick Summary
The NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical has arrived, as the brand continues to update its machines with greater focus on interactive training. This model is the replacement for the outgoing C 9.5, and while some basic features remain the same, quite a bit has changed. First and foremost its console has been redesigned to be much more streamlined, though its touchscreen remains a modest 7 inches in size. Another change that came as a bit of a surprise is the lightening of its flywheel. Geared towards a more entry to mid-level user, the flywheel of the Commercial 9.9 has been lowered from 30 to 25 pounds. While this is lower than some of NordicTrack’s higher spec models, it’s still an acceptable weight for the category. Its retail price compared to its predecessor remains unchanged ($1,299), though as always we expect to see occasional sales and discounts from NordicTrack throughout the year.
Specifications
| Model | NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 |
| Rating |  92.2% |
| List Price | $1,299 |
| Best Price | $1299 |
| Resistance | 22 Levels |
| Resistance Type | SMR™ Silent Magnetic |
| Stride Length | 17.5" - 18.5" |
| Pedals | Adjustable & Oversized |
| Incline | 0 - 20% |
| Flywheel | 25 lbs |
| Programs | iFit Streaming |
| User Profiles | 4 users |
| Heart Rate | Dual CardioGrip Heart Rate Monitor |
| Display | 7” Smart HD Touchscreen |
| Max. Weight | 350 lbs |
| Dimensions | 68.25" x 28.75" x 68.5" |
| Upper Body |  |
| Accessory Tray | |
| Speakers | |
| Cooling Fans | |
| Folding? |  |
| Quick Controls | |
| Warranty | Frame: 10 Years Parts: 2 Years Labor: 1 Year |
Rating:
Our Rating
Rating: 92.2/100. Combining items like interactive training options, adjustable stride length, and a touchscreen display make the bang-for-buck factor on the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical reasonably high overall. Depending on your height and inseam measurement, that stride adjustment will make a big difference to your overall comfort when using the machine.
Adjustable stride length is a key to this elliptical trainer’s good ergonomics. With auto adjustable digital controls, you can set the length from 17.5 to 18.7 inches. For reference, 20” is the norm on commercial elliptical machines. The option to go as short as 18” means that people with shorter gaits can use the machine comfortably too — plus anyone can vary the stride during workouts to focus on different muscle groups. Additionally the incline adjusts up to 20 degrees. Using the incline lets you avoid leaning forward, which can be a problem for people using front drive ellipticals. It also adds extra variety and challenge to your workout.
With its 7-inch touchscreen, the focus is really on the use of iFit—NordicTrack’s streaming training service. You’re no longer relegated to setting built-in programs and finding your own motivation. Instead, motivational pro instructors coach you and encourage you through your workouts, offering a variety of intensities, each with their own energetic workout playlist. A pair of speakers supply the audio, though there’s also a headphone connection if you don’t want to disturb the rest of the house.
While on the topic of iFit, there’s one item that needs to be addressed. NordicTrack is quick to tout the ability to be able to follow along to other types of training sessions, like strength training, yoga, and stretching. While that’s all well and good, the angle and location of the monitor on this elliptical says otherwise. Granted, you can access your iFit membership from other devices (like an iPad or tablet), so if that’s an option for you then this information is technically still accurate.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- 17.5″ to 18.7″ stride, auto adjustable
- 25-pound flywheel
- Grip-mounted heart rate monitoring
- Moving arm bars
- Bluetooth-capable audio to follow your own workout soundtrack
- USB charging port
- Built-in cooling fan
- Terrain-matching control during workouts, meaning incline and resistance is adjusted automatically
- One-touch resistance and incline controls for manual modes
- Oversized and cushioned pedals
Cons:
- Lighter flywheel than previous version
- Additional monthly cost for subscription service
- Access to built-in workouts no longer available
Workout Programs
As stated above, working out on the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical is all about streaming iFit training. You’re following along with high quality instructors either in the studio or in the real world through their ‘Global Workouts” section, with an energetic soundtrack running in the background. Along the way you don’t need to worry about any of the machine’s settings, as they are adjusted for you as the workout intensifies or slows down the pace. Just because you’re following a trainer doesn’t mean all of these workouts are super intense either. You can choose things at a higher intensity, or even simple walking workouts depending on your mood and motivation.
There are a couple of key items that we love about working with iFit. First, users have the ability to override the resistance and incline settings in the workout, so if you just can’t keep pushing as hard as the trainer is asking, you can dial things back down as needed. You also have the ability to independently alter the volume of the background music and the trainer to suit your personal preferences. Some days when you just want to zone out, there’s something nice about just dialling into the musing and getting your workout in. Lastly, the stat tracking in iFit is a great way to keep tabs on your performance, and see how you’re progressing.
Warranty & Guarantee
As a part of internal changes across the NordicTrack Lineup, all machine warranties now include:
– Frame: 10 Years
– Parts: 2 Years
– Electronics: 2 Years
– Labor: 1 Year
Conclusion
If you like the idea of streaming coaching videos, training sessions that take you up and down trails around the world, and the idea of a well-built piece of equipment from a longstanding brand in the category, this new Commercial 9.9 Elliptical is a great place to start. Just remember the need for a tablet for off-machine workouts, and the fact that your subscription means a $39/month carrying cost, which some people won’t care for, but otherwise it’s a very solid machine.
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