NordicTrack Exp 7i
Walking and running outdoors may not always be a convenient option for everyone.
As there is still a NEED to maintain fitness through exercise and physical activity (even in the comfort of your home), treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes were designed and produced.
Enter the NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill — with features like 3.0 continuous horsepower (CHP), a smart-response motor, and more.
When purchasing this treadmill, you get a 30-day iFit subscription, opening the doors for expert trainers, a personalized strength training routine, automatic trainer control for speeds and inclines, and a movable folding treadmill.
You also get to enjoy the AutoBreeze workout fan feature that instinctively changes the fan speed from high, medium, and low power depending on your choice of workout, incline, and speed (12 mph as the top speed and 12% as the top incline).
I know how much you want to get into the details of this 222-pound folding treadmill. Let’s get into the specifics of the NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill.
Pros
- EasyLift assist technology for easy folding and moving
- 300-pound weight capacity
- Has automatic trainers and control for a more fitted workout experience
- Access to elite trainers to give appropriate training routines
- With HD smart touchscreen for easy workout access, Google Maps workouts, and statistics tracking
Cons
- Brand reviews show it is not the best for intense and extensive running
- It only has a 7-inch touchscreen, which may be smaller than other treadmills
- Workout fan is not as efficient and useful for tall people compared to other treadmills
Features
In this NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill review, I observed that it indeed holds a lot of helpful and functional features similar to comparable treadmills.
In a nutshell, the NordicTrack EXP 7i has these features:
- 7-inch high-definition smart touchscreen
- FlexSelect cushioning (present in all NordicTrack treadmills)
- Smart response motor drive system
- Wide selection of iFit membership workouts
- Bluetooth audio for wireless connectivity
- Two-inch digitally amplified speakers
- EasyLift assist technology
- AutoBreeze workout fan
However, this 3.0 CHP smart-response motor mid-level treadmill is only suitable for walking, hiking, light jogging, and light to medium running.
Here are some of the standout features in detail:
1. Console
In buying this treadmill from the NordicTrack lineup of treadmills, you can enjoy interactive training workouts from its console with a 7-inch high-definition smart touchscreen and large quick-touch buttons.
These features give you easy access to workouts. It even helps swiftly adjust to the manual mode when you do not have an iFit fitness subscription by pressing the incline, speeds, and volume buttons.
Also, the NordicTrack EXP 7i will give you comfort (I can vouch for this!) while walking, exercising, or light jogging, as it has an AutoBreeze fan near the console.
You can manually maneuver the intensity of the fan by pressing the button at the bottom left of the HD display.
Aside from that comfort, the console also has a built-in sound system where you can connect your other devices through Bluetooth to play music or audiobooks.
You can easily change the volume by pushing the button right below the iFit logo on the touchscreen. In fact, I didn’t have a hard time finding and using this with the other important buttons.
However, I agree with users saying that the screen is too small and the console is not fitted for users who stand below 5 feet and 4 inches.
It also lacks a tablet holder for when you need your other devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets). Yet, it has side console trays and a ledge below the handrail that can be fully maximized for this purpose.
2. Automatic Trainer Control and Training Programs
EXP 7i treadmills come with a 7-inch HD smart touchscreen and a 3.0 CHP motor system. You are guaranteed visual displays of your high-intensity strength and leg training programs.
This also gives you access to elite trainers, allowing you to explore other home gyms and travel across the world without stepping outdoors.
A NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill will give you automatic trainers AND auto-adjust technology that makes you exercise similarly to your trainer’s surroundings!
The NordicTrack treadmill includes automatic controls for trainers on these features:
- Adjust the incline from 0% to 12%
- Change the speed from 0 to 12 miles per hour
I can attest to how this feature will ensure your safety and balance while walking, jogging, or running, as the treadmill also has left and right handrails with heart rate sensors.
3. Folding Treadmill
The EXP 7i is an excellent addition to start your home gym fitness equipment. It provides a 222-pound foldable treadmill with EasyLift assist technology that lets you conveniently fold and move the NordicTrack treadmill.
You can adjust it in a folded position, giving you enough space for other activities when you are not using your treadmill.
It is suitable for small spaces, designed and created to be a space saver. To fold it, you have to lift the steel base until a folded position, and it will automatically lock in place.
After securing the folding of the EXP 7i machine, you can move it around with the built-in transport wheels.
Then, all you have to do to unlatch is pull the release lever in yellow, and it will gradually release the treadmill’s base.
Despite being heavy at 200+ lbs, I found the treadmill surprisingly easier to move around than expected!
4. Running Belt and Deck
The NordicTrack EXP 7i has a 20-inch width by a 60-inch length of tread belt and deck size, which is wide enough to hold your whole body safely while running on different inclines and speeds (even at top speed!).
Yet, this can be a different experience for every individual as the running belt and deck size appropriate for you must be based on the following:
- User weight
- User height
- User stride
- Slow or fast pace usage
Moreover, the NordicTrack EXP 7i also houses the FlexSelect cushioning to proactively avoid injuries in joints for most users during foot landing.
Personally, I like how this cushioning provides a soft place for you to bounce feet and joints during light jogging, running sessions, and walking programs.
You also get to feel the outdoors with how much the low-impact cushioning imitates real-life running.
5. Smart Response Motor Drive System
This treadmill is a perfect purchase for walkers, runners, and joggers as it has the minimum continuous motor horsepower of 3.0 and a smart response drive system.
This is a crucial aspect to look at because this serves as the core of your treadmill. Without this, your treadmill and all its fancy features will not run.
The smart-response motor provides enough energy for the machine to be suitable for walkers and runners like you in jogging and running, regardless of speed and incline.
It also helps in reducing noise from motor vibration and has an automatic motor cooling system as you hit the highest speed and incline positions.
Price
With all of its features, I think the NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill is worth its price, which is $1099, with free standard delivery on their official site.
Yet, if you prefer to pay in installments, you can have a 0% interest in 39 months with a $29 price for a fixed monthly payment.
A 12-month installment plan is also possible with NordicTrack. Similarly, it has the same price range and a $29 monthly payment.
Also, this price is within the price range of mid-level treadmills. However, what sets this apart is its unique and efficient features, such as the belt cushioning, HD touchscreen, enough treadmill length, and appropriate width.
Warranty
In this EXP 7i treadmill review, I discovered that its warranty is pretty standard and similar to other NordicTrack equipment and treadmills within a similar price range:
- Frame Warranty – 10 years
- Parts Warranty – 2 years
- Labor Warranty – 1 year
However, you can only avail of these warranty conditions if your machines adhere to the following situations:
- It was NOT used as a physical display for a store
- It was bought and used within the United States of America
- It was used following the machine manuals
- It was used within the suggested weight and user capacity
- It has NEVER been used as a commercial gym equipment
Also, as owner, you get to pay for the handling fee and trip charge in cases where the machine parts need to be shipped and if you availed of home service.
Dimensions
For the dimensions, this machine can hold up to a 300-pound weight capacity and fits even the small spaces within your place with these product specifications:
- Length – 77.3″
- Width – 35.3”
- Height – 59.6″
In addition, this treadmill has a 20-inch by 60-inch tread belt. This tread belt is appropriate for runners and walkers.
However, this tread belt size may be too narrow for runners. Nevertheless, this size is enough if you are an expert runner with the right balance and court feel.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Users
I know how difficult it is to make a buying decision with unanswered questions in your mind. With that, I have here a section for your frequently asked questions as answered by users!
Can I Use NordicTrack EXP 7i Without an iFit Subscription?
Yes, you can use the treadmill without purchasing an iFit subscription. All you have to do is access the manual mode.
The manual mode lets you manually change the incline and speed with the buttons at the right and left corners of the 7-inch touchscreen display.
Yet, remember that without iFit, you cannot access iFit personalized expert coaches and even the iFit automatic adjust feature on the machine’s incline and speed controls.
How Much Does an iFit Membership Cost?
An iFit monthly membership after the 30-day free subscription for every purchase of this treadmill has a price of $39.
Note that your iFit free membership automatically renews after the trial period. If you do not want to use iFit, you better cancel it before the 30th day of the free subscription so that you will not be charged the iFit price.
Nevertheless, there are other options for iFit that have a price range of $180 to $396 yearly payments, depending if you get an individual or a family plan.
Does NordicTrack EXP 7i Have Bluetooth?
Yes, this treadmill has a Bluetooth feature for wireless connections for headphones and smartphones to help provide clearer audio for workout programs.
To use this feature, you need to hold the Bluetooth button placed within the console for 3 seconds and pair your devices. Remember that the machine can ONLY save 8 devices.
Should I Turn Off My NordicTrack EXP 7i Every Day?
Yes, you should turn it off. Based on the manual, manufacturers emphasized that you must turn it off and unplug the power cord every after use.
Where Is the NordicTrack EXP 7i Reset Hole?
The reset hole is located right at the back edge of the console. However, pressing the reset hole alone will not work.
To reset the treadmill, you must press the reset hole while simultaneously turning on and pressing the power switch.
In my experience, I needed a helping hand when it came to resetting the treadmill. NordicTrack also recommends this dynamic in their manual.
What Is the Weight Limit for the NordicTrack EXP 7i?
The machine can hold up to 300 lbs or 136 kg of weight. User weight beyond this limit is NOT allowed; if damages are done, it will not be included in the security agreement.
Also, manufacturers do not recommend two individuals using it simultaneously, even if within the required weight limit, as it may affect the incline and speed.
Is There a Return Policy for the NordicTrack Treadmill?
Yes, the treadmill has a 30-day return policy from the delivery date. However, NordicTrack will only refund you the treadmill price. Other fees, such as shipping and in-house assembly, are not included.
Also, you need to pay $250 for the return shipping fee and other additional fees depending on NordicTrack’s machine assessment.
NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill Bottom Line Review
From this EXP 7i treadmill review, I say this is an excellent buy for your home gym.
It has a mid-price range for great features like:
- 3.0 motor CHP
- Compact and foldable
- iFit assist technology
- Compact footprint
- Ideal-sized belts
- Automatic incline and speed controls
- 7-inch HD display
However, the display may be too small for tall people, and they may need a larger screen to fully experience the workout. Also, the fan may not work in their favor.
Nonetheless, you can still connect other devices as second screens. This treadmill fitness equipment is also Bluetooth-enabled with extra features like a 30-day iFit free subscription, water bottle holders, a storage tray, and Google Maps workouts for all your fitness needs.
