Reflex Deck reduces impact by nearly 40% compared to running outside. It actually returns energy to your stride and adds an extra layer of protection for your joints - great for runners or power walkers who are prone to shin splints and other injuries.
Other goodies include an iFit card reader so you can get more interactive specialized workouts, odometer with miles tracker, heart rate monitor, built-in fan and carb counter.
Is it right for you? Here's a review of the Nordic Track Apex 4500 treadmill to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1999
Motor: 2.25 Commercial Drive Motor
Speed: 0 -10 MPH
Incline: 0-12%
Treadbelt: 20 x 55"
Folding: Yes
300 lb Weight Capacity Deck
Lifetime Motor Warranty, 1 Year parts and Labor
Strengths:
1) Reflex Deck Cushioning Reduces Impact By Nearly 40% - Reflex deck cushioning is Nordic track's most advanced cushioning system - very soft and easy on the joints. While the deck may look slim, it's extremely tough (it's made of the same material used to build professional snowboards).
It has been highly rated by both experts, users and doctors (you can read user reviews at the website). The arc-shaped deck first flattens to absorb the impact, then springs back to its original arc shape, propelling you into the next stride.
It reduces impact by nearly 40% compared to running outside. So if you're a runner or concerned about protecting your joints, this is a great cushioning system to have. Some users have commented that it's so soft they feel like they could run forever.
2) Work Out With Jillian Michaels from 'The Biggest Loser' - The Apex 4500 has an iFit card reader built into the console. Each iFit card contains 8 weeks of interactive workouts. You just plug the card into the console and the treadmill remembers where you left off.
Nordic Track has teamed up with Jillian Michaels (from the TV show 'The Biggest Loser') to make specialized iFit workout cards with Jillian-designed workouts. You actually get Jillian talking you through your workout. Very cool.
3) 12 More Built In Workout Programs - In addition to the iFit card option, the Apex 4500 also comes with 10 goal-specific workouts (weight loss, aerobic or performance) designed by a personal trainer that adjust the incline and speed of your treadmill. There are also 2 customizable workouts that you can design yourself and save for future use.
4) iPod Port With Speakers Built Into the Console - You can plug your iPod or MP3 player into the built-in audio jack and listen to your favorite music or audiobooks while you workout.
Weaknesses:
While the lifetime motor warranty is excellent we would have like to see a longer parts warranty on the treadmill (parts are only covered for 1 year) However you can get extra coverage on checkout.
Also, runners or taller users may want to upgrade to the longer 60" deck found on the Elite 7500 which also has solid cushioning, a 7" flat screen TV and iFit card, iPod port and 35 built in workouts.
Overall Conclusion: Recommended
The Nordic Track Apex 4500 is a great entry level treadmill with a strong motor, decent sized treadbelt, lots of workout programs, iFit card reader and lots of console feedback like carbs burned, odometer, training zone indicator, etc.
The main strength is the Reflex Deck cushioning which is one of the best cushioning systems on the market right now. It's a great option especially for runners who are concerned about protecting their joints.
Overall a good value buy. If you're looking for a bit more - with many of the same benefits of the 4500 - but with a longer 60" deck and built-in TV - you may want to look at the Elite 7500 first.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can get the Nordic Track Apex 4500 treadmill direct from the Manufacturer. They're currently offering Free Shipping and you can also save on sales tax.
