The Nordic Track T5Zi treadmill has a lot of people talking because of the price - you can find it in some places for under 0. To get a Nordic Track at this price is pretty rare. And the potential to get a great treadmill for a steal of a price is pretty tempting.
But is it really a good buy?
Here's a review of the advantages and disadvantages of the Nordic Track T5 Zi treadmill:
First let's cover the basics. You get a 2.8 HP motor - which isn't bad, especially at this price point. It can give you enough power so you won't feel like your treadmill is struggling just to run. The motor is also covered by a 25 year motor warranty - which again isn't bad at all, considering the price point.
The main features are pretty standard for a budget treadmill: 10% incline, up to 10 MPH speed and a 55" long belt. While this isn't the longest belt in the industry, it's still a decent size and would probably give most people of average height enough room to move without feeling like they're going to fall off the treadmill.
Also, you get a handgrip heart rate monitor which can help you stay in your target heart rate range.
Now for the extras.
One thing many buyers like is that the T5Zi comes with an iFit card reader. iFit cards are sold separately and come with 8 weeks of personal-trainer designed workouts on each one. You just fit the iFit card into the console, the treadmill remembers where you left off and starts the next workout.
Nordic Track worked with Jillian Michaels of "The Biggest Loser" TV show and made Jillian-inspired iFit workout cards. You actually get Jillian's voice coaching you through your workout which can be pretty cool.
Another fun feature with the Nordic Track T5Zi treadmill is that it comes with an iPod dock and speakers. While this is fairly standard with most treadmills today, it can definitely make your workouts a lot more enjoyable.
Finally the console. It's fairly simple but easy to understand and read. There are 4 information windows showing distance, time, calories and speed along with a prominent emergency stop and start button. There are also pre-programmed workouts - focusing on calorie burning or timed workouts.
The T5Zi also folds to save space.
So what's the overall conclusion?
Well, only you can tell if this is the right machine for you. But overall the NordicTrack T5Zi gives you some good basics of a starter treadmill.
It's not a commercial grade machine and probably wouldn't be the best choice for runners or multi-user families. But if you're on a budget and still want a bargain machine with some great basics you might really enjoy this treadmill.
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