NordicTrack EXP 7i Review

The new EXP 7i follows the same form factor as the NordicTrack's commercial machines. With a 2.6 CHP motor and an incredibly comfortable running surface, this treadmill provides a solid workout. The simple console features basic functionality, but its small screen is filed in the “you get what you pay for” department. iFit is a stellar workout program, especially with a paired machine; unfortunately, the small viewable space and digital latency distract from its appeal.

Performance Comparison

Exercise Quality

The NordicTrack EXP 7i provides a great platform for general running, walking, and hiking workouts. With an adequately large tread deck, a 10 mph top speed, and an incline that rises to 11.3%, it isn't hard to create a challenging workout. The deck is quite comfortable, even for lightweight users.

The running surface of the EXP 7i measures 54.5 inches long and 20 inches wide, which is suitable for longer strides or high-speed running without kicking the motor cover or the side rails. While not as wide as some higher-end machines, we found it adequate for any workout. Our testers found it roomy and had no problems staying within the rails. With a top speed of 10 mph, the machine can facilitate a zippy 6-minute mile. Those looking for HIIT workouts or sprint training won't find the speed necessary to push the red line. The machine's incline adjustments push it from flat to 11.3%, allowing you to incorporate incline training and hills into your routine. Additionally, the Runners Flex Cushioning deck is effective at absorbing impact and helping to stave off fatigue. We measured the cushioning at the center of the deck using a digital force gauge and found that it required

The treadmill can be operated manually to suit any level of workout. Setting goals such as time, distance, or calorie targets is simple. There are no longer pre-programmed workouts, so if it's a program you'd like, you'll be using an app on the screen or your own tablet. Using iFit through the treadmill's display, the machine automatically adjusts your speed and incline. If you use your own screen, you can still use iFit, but the treadmill will not make those adjustments for you. We love the iFit for the scenery and experience, but experiencing it through the small screen doesn't do it justice. Unlike other machines, the EXP 7i does not feature redundant adjustment dials on the handrails or heartrate sensor pads. Only having adjustments on the periphery of the hood isn't ideal, but we have gotten used to it. You can connect a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate monitor, but you'll need to adjust speed and incline through buttons on the hood.

Companion App/Connectivity

The main feature here is this machine's ability to connect with iFit. Generally, we'd refer to this two-way connectivity at FTMS (FiTness Machine Service) protocol, but NordicTrack doesn't use the term. FTMS is simply two-way communication between the treadmill and a connected app; this allows your workout class to change speed and incline without your input. It's a fantastic experience to follow one of the iFit coaches through a mountain trail run and have your speed and incline change as if you were there. You simply run; it's an immersive experience that can really take your mind off running indoors on a conveyor belt. The EXP 7i's screen size makes it difficult to immerse yourself; additionally, the fantastic production quality and amazing views can't be fully appreciated on the small screen. You can play your own music through the speakers on the console when connected via Bluetooth.
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User Interface/Ease of Use

The EXP 7i isn't hard to use; the controls are simple and easy to navigate. Starting a workout requires waking the machine through the touchscreen and selecting either a manual workout or one of the iFit workouts. The machine isn't quick to boot up and requires patience to initiate a workout.

You can use the numbered buttons on the console's right side to adjust your speed. You can also use the plus/minus button located below them. Similarly, you can adjust the incline using the numbers ascending the console's left side or the plus/minus button underneath. Unlike other treadmills, NordicTrack doesn't have adjustment knobs, dials, or toggles located on the handrails; instead, they rely on iFit to make adjustments. Should you bring your own display, such as an iPad, you can view your iFit workout on that screen, covering the original display but leaving adjustment buttons free.

The EXP 7i defaults to using iFit but will allow you to choose a manual workout. Treadmills typically err on the side of caution, often giving a countdown to when the belt beneath you will start moving, but this machine starts rather unexpectedly. When you select a workout, the screen goes to the “Loading workout…” screen, and the belt starts moving. Nothing about the screen indicates that it's about to happen, and it caught most of our testers by surprise. We got used to it and started standing on the side rails while selecting a workout.

Features

The EXP 7i isn't quite as full-featured as some of the higher-end models we tested, but it does have a few options that enhance your experience. Dual drink holders, a tablet shelf, and speakers you can connect to via Bluetooth are all in the hood. There is neither a fan nor a USB port to run one or charge an alternative device.

The Runners Flex Cushioning between the frame and running deck is a highlight of this machine, with more than average deflection to help pad your stride. While incredibly comfortable to run on, some of our testers feel its squishy surface was unnatural. We measured the deck flex of this treadmill at 609 Newtons, making it slightly more compliant than the Echelon Stride 6, which required 658 Newtons of force to flex the deck half an inch.

Ease of Assembly

The NordicTrack EXP 7i was the most time-consuming of the full-sized treadmills we assembled. The difficulty doesn't come from the design or packaging but poor tolerances. Sure, the 228-pound box is hard to move and is packed full of styrofoam, but once unpacked, the challenges come from fitting its hardware into the proper holes. Two places required augmenting pre-drilled holes to achieve alignment sufficient to use the included hardware. In one case, installing the upright post required using clamps to get the bolt holes to line up.

All told, the final assembly time of this treadmill was 105 minutes. Following the assembly video was helpful, but there were some differences between the machine assembled in the video and the one we received. The included tools suffice, but using a screwdriver with a handle and a ratchet with a few sockets made the job much easier. When attaching the hood and console, having a friend who can either hold its weight or connect some wiring for you is helpful.

Storability

The downside of a full-sized treadmill is that it is not especially easy to store, which is true with the EXP 7i. The “SpaceSaver Design” allows the deck to fold upward while the “EasyLift Assist” pneumatic arm helps facilitate that movement so it feels less heavy than it is. We measured the machine at 34" long, 35.75" wide, and 67" tall in the folded position. The wheels along the bottom of the frame will allow you to move it on hard flooring without too much effort, but it won't likely fit into a closet or through a doorway.

With the treadmill open, the EXP 7i measured 70.75" long, 35.75" wide, and 59" tall, but you'll need more space than this. NordicTrack recommends having at least 8 feet of clear space behind the treadmill and 2 feet on each side. They also recommend against placing it in a garage or anywhere with moisture, so plan accordingly.

Noise Level

Measuring the amount of noise produced on the EXP 7i with a digital sound meter netted average results. A jogger on the belt at 4 mph generated 62 dB of noise. It was not as loud as the Peloton Stride, but none of the models tested were too loud for casual conversation or listening to music at a reasonable level.

Should You Buy the NordicTrack EXP 7i?

The EXP 7i is well-built, capable, and comfortable. We enjoy the diversity of workouts that iFit provides, and while the app adds cost, the treadmill itself is reasonably priced. The screen size and inability to have a properly functioning workaround are strikes against it, as are the less-than-accurate manufacturing tolerances. With those grievances aired, we found the exercise quality quite good. This treadmill would be a great option if you don't mind a little struggle to assemble, the small display, and the lack of a fan.

What Other Treadmills Should You Consider?

If you want better connectivity and/or a higher top speed, the XTerra Fitness TRX3500 features Bluetooth FTMS and a 12 mph maximum speed. If you're sold on the benefits of iFit workouts, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 comes with our highest recommendation. The swiveling console and large touchscreen integrate with iFit, allowing you to get lost in the workout without fussing with controls. While it's more expensive, the 1750 can sustain even the most hardcore runners.