If you're looking for one of the best bargain treadmills of the new year, you'll want to check out the Nordic Track T5.5 treadmill.
Coming (as of this writing) at $599 with Free Shipping, it packs a lot of value into a very small price tag.
You get a strong 2.5 HP motor with decent sized 20 x 55" deck. It comes iFit compatible so you can add even more workouts to the 20 built-in workouts you already get.
It folds up to save you space and even adds a fun side with the iPod dock and speakers.
Is it the best treadmill for you? Here's what to know about the Nordic Track 5.5 before you buy:
Quick Stats:
Price: $599 + Free Shipping
Motor: 2.5 HP Commercial Pro Motor
Speed: 0 -10 MPH
Incline: 0-10%
Treadbelt: 20 x 55"
Folding: Yes
Heart Rate: Yes Hand Grip
325 lb Weight Capacity Deck
iPod dock with Speaker System
20 Built-in Workouts
iFit Live Compatible
Lifetime Frame, 25 Year Motor Warranty, 1 parts and years labor
Strengths:
1) Incredible Price
This is one of the killer deals NordicTrack usually rolls out for the New Years season. To get a NordicTrack for under $600 - especially as strong as this one - is a steal. If you're on a budget but still want a decent motorized treadmill for under $600, this treadmill is worth considering.
2) Great Essentials
You get some great treadmill essentials here like a strong 2.5 HP motor, decent sized 20 x 55" belt, heart rate monitor and built-in workout programs. The console - while smaller than higher end models - is backlit and easy to read with one-touch incline and speed buttons (so you don't have to go scrolling through a ton of options to get to your desired setting.)
3) iFit LIVE
The Nordic Track T5.5 treadmill comes iFit LIVE compatible. iFit LIVE connects your treadmill to the Internet using the wireless in your home. From there you can download new workout programs (even some by Jillian Michaels of 'The Biggest Loser' where she coaches you through your workout.)
You can also map out different trails to run all over the world and keep track of your fitness progress over time. This makes it easier to reach your fitness and health goals.
4) iPod Dock with Speakers
You can plug your iPod or MP3 player into the built-in audio jack and listen to your favorite music while you workout. While this is becoming a fairly standard feature in many treadmills, it's still nice to have and can make your workouts a lot more enjoyable.
5) 20 Built In Workouts
In addition to iFit LIVE workouts, you also get a total of 20 built-in workouts designed by a certified personal trainer. These workouts focuse on maximum calorie-burning or distance. The treadmill automatically adjusts the incline and speed for you during the workout.
6) Hand Grip Heart Rate Monitor
The NordicTrack T5.5 gives you a hand grip heart rate monitor so you can track your heart rate and stay in your target fat-burning zone.
Weaknesses:
If you don't have Wireless Internet in your house you won't be able to use the iFit LIVE capability. Also note that the iFit LIVE module is sold separately with this treadmill.
Quick Summary:
If you're on a budget but still want a decent treadmill, the Nordic Track T5.5 is worth checking out. You get a strong treadmill for a surprisingly low price. From the powerful motor to the decent sized belt to the 20 workout programs - and even the warranty is better than many $700 models.
While it's still not a commercial grade machine, you just can't beat this price - especially for a Nordic Track.
Where To Buy:
You can get the sale on the Nordic Track Commercial T5.5 treadmill direct from the Manufacturer. You can also currently get Free Shipping to your home which can save you about $150