Quick Summary
The NordicTrack EXP 7i comes into the market of high-tech home treadmills as part of the brand’s T Series, which begins with the entry-level T 6.5 Si and caps off with the EXP 101. As the lineup’s mid-point, the EXP 7i really does hit that sweet spot for most consumer’s with a starting price of $1,299 and discounts certain to come later this year. Brand for brand, the NordicTrack T Series matches up well against Horizon and it’s 7.0 AT, 7.4 AT, and 7.8 AT. With solid engineering and a respectable warranty, it stands out as a potential workout partner for active people’s homes.
Like a growing number of NordicTrack machines, the EXP 7i comes with a 1-year Family Membership to iFit, valued at $468. Powered by a 3.0 CHP Commercial Plus Motor, the treadmill is most comparably sized with the Horizon 7.0 AT. As solid mid-sized motor, the treadmill is geared to handle well the average user with both acceleration and deceleration. This does come into play when engaging sprints and HIIT over long periods of use by runners up to 300 lbs, both in terms of walking and running.
Having the ability to handle stress is key, and the EXP 7i is engineered with a Smart-Response Drive System. Built atop 1.9-inch precision and balanced non-flex rollers, the treadmill is equipped with FlexSelect™ Cushioning to better absorb the shock of driving feet. Once a runner gets their rhythm in stride, the EXP 7i offers a solid base for cardio workouts.
Built with a 7-inch HD Smart Touchscreen, Bluetooth audio capabilities, and two 2-inch digitally amplified speakers, the treadmill sports automatic trainer controls in keeping with the iFit program. This is the same size screen as offered by way of the Horizon 7.0 AT, and comes built into a console with OneTouch Controls. If users choose to discontinue the iFit subscription after the initial year, the treadmill can still be utilized independently, or in conjunct with a separate tablet or smartphone. EKG Grip Pulse sensors are built into the handles for heart-rate readings which can be incorporated into the iFit program or monitored separately.
In terms of the machine itself, the EXP 7i provides a 20-inch by 60-inch commercial tread belt with 0-12% incline. While no decline is offered here, the treadmill offers an industry-standard 0-12 mph speed capability. Users also have at their hands an integrated tray as well as AutoBreeze Workout Fan. Measuring 77 inches long by 35.3 inches wide, the treadmill is 59.6 inches high and comes in at 222 lbs in-box. Designed with SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist, the machine is relatively easy to relocate within a home.
NordicTrack offers a 10-year warranty on the frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor.
All in all, the EXP 7i offers a solid bargain when considering the included year of iFit programming, valued at $468. The introductory retail price of $1,299 less that puts it in good stead with the Horizon 7.0 AT priced at $999, with both machines offering comparable features.
Rating: 97.2/100
Specifications
Model | EXP 7i |
Rating | 97.2% |
List Price | $1,299 |
Best Price | $1299 |
Speed | 0 - 12 mph |
Incline | 0-12% |
Motor | 3.0 CHP |
Deck | 20" x 60" |
Belt | FlexSelect™ Cushioning |
Folding? | |
Programs | iFit only |
Max. Weight | 300 lbs |
Heart Rate | EKG Grip Pulse |
Dimensions | 77.3” x 35.3” x 59.6” |
Display | 7-inch HD Smart Touchscreen |
Cooling Fans | |
Accessory Tray | |
Speakers | |
Quick Controls | |
Warranty | Frame: 10 years br>
Parts: 2 Years Labor: 1 Year |
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Substantial running surface (20-inch x 60-inch)
- SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist
- 3.0 CHP motor
- Rapid speed and incline adjustment
- 300 lb weight capacity
- 1-year Family Membership in iFit included with purchase
- Bluetooth for heart rate monitoring and audio
- EKG Grip Pulse
- Smart-Response Drive System
Cons:
- Lack of on-board programming (10 workouts built-in)
- No decline option offered on machine
Introduction
As noted, the NordicTrack EXP 7i represents the mid-level treadmill of that lineup’s T Series and is new to the market for 2021. Priced into the $1,000-$1,500 range, it compares favorably to other machines in that category As with all things home fitness this year, the EXP 7i is trending toward interactive training and comes built with iFit in mind. Whereas treadmills from competing brands offer either their own workout app, or perhaps connectivity for a different system, NordicTrack includes one year of the iFit Family Membership into the purchase. That said, if users prefer other systems or none at all, the machine can certainly work independently. One of the advantages offered by exercising at home is that a television, tablet, or smartphone can always be incorporated easily enough. As with most new machines, the EXP 7i does require a Wifi or Internet connection and it is Bluetooth-enabled.
Workout Programs
The NordicTrack family of exercise machines has begun offering their products iFit-enabled with many coming with an included 1-year membership upon purchase. The iFit exercise community not only includes both live and on-demand workouts, but professional trainers in remote locations who can control the machine’s resistance and incline during the workout. Automatic trainer control allows the user to relax and simply hit the track without having to worry about slacking off or losing steam. The interactive workouts come by way of the treadmill’s 7-inch HD Smart Touchscreen and 2-inch speakers.
The Family Membership plans comes with four user profiles and fitness fans can track their performance metrics and tailor their goals accordingly. The iFit package also comes with Google Maps workouts which allow runners, walkers, and joggers alike to travel about the globe virtually. The Google Maps component affords visual, and audio, guided strolls along beaches, mountain paths, and cities around Earth. Daily recommended workouts are automatically generated for the user based on past workouts, and a virtual library of other health and wellness information is also provided.
Features
The running deck of the NordicTrack EXP 7i measures 20 inches x 60 inches, which above the industry standard of 20 x 55, making it good for high-speed sprinting. With a sturdy tread belt, the treadmill comes with FlexSelect Cushioning and a Smart-Response Drive System to help control for shock and vibration. The EXP 7i features a maximum speed of 12 mph and an incline range up to 12%.
Bluetooth connectivity allows for a number of additional options, from other fitness trackers to smartphones, and play music through the speaker system. EKG Pulse Grip sensors are embedded in the handlebars so cardio checks will be no problem. The treadmill also features an integrated accessory tray and cooling fan.
Warranty & Guarantee
The NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill warranty includes:
– Frame: 10 years
– Parts & Electronics: 2 years
– Labor: 1 year
Conclusion
Rating: 97.2/100