The Nordic track name is owned by Icon Health and Fitness, one of the largest fitness equipment companies in the world (They also own brands like Proform, Healthrider, Image, Epic and Reebok.)
The advantage to buying from the largest fitness equipment company in the world is that, unlike some brands that have closed up shop and filed for bankruptcy, ICON is large enough that it can probably weather the storm of tough economic times.
Nordic Track is ICON's higher end brand of fitness equipment. And their ellipticals offer some popular features with buyers.
Strengths:
Incline For Better Crosstraining - Incline lets you increase your workout slope. This works different muscle groups to burn the maximum amount of calories (incline is only found on certain models).
Incline is a feature that isn't found on many elliptical trainers (unless you want to spend $3000+ on a Precor)
Built In Speakers with iPod / MP3 Jack - Several of this year's models come with built in speakers and iPod / mp3 plug in ports. You can play your favorite workout music and listen to it through the console spaekrs.
Longer Stride Lengths - While many of the older NordicTrack elliptical models offers 15-16" stride lengths, the new models are coming with 18" - 22" stride lengths.
A longer stride feels more comfortable and helps you more fully work your leg muscles, burn more calories and get a better workout overall.
iFit Card Reader - Several models offer iFit card capability. iFit workout cards offer 8 weeks of personal trainer workouts (per card). You insert the card directly into the elliptical console and the program will automatically adjust your speed and incline to fit the workout's goals.
You can even get iFit cards with workouts designed by Jillian Michael's from The Biggest Loser. You get Jillian talking you through your workout.
Folding To Save Space - Several of the Nordic Track Spacesaver ellipticals fold up for easy storage and movement. While fairly common with treadmills - this is rare to find with elliptical trainers.
Weaknesses:
Several of the older economy models are still kicking around stores. They're not as advanced as the newer models and may not hold up as well over the long run.
And as with most brands, the higher end models give you more in terms of stability, workout features and durability.
Summary:
NordicTrack elliptical trainers have vastly improved over the years and give you a lot more than they used to.
Some models include incline to change your workout slope and give you a more effective workout. The strides are longer and some ellipticals even come with adjustable stride lengths so that everyone can choose a stride length that feel comfortable for them.
You also get the fun stuff to make your workouts more enjoyable like iPod / Mp3 jacks with built in speakers, iFit card readers, customizable workout programs, built in fans and even built-in TV's (Freemotion S5.8)
Keep in mind that if you plan on heavy, frequent use of your elliptical, you'll want a higher end model with high user weight capacity and longer warranty as they will probably stand up better over the long run.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can save money by buying a NordicTrack Elliptical trainer direct from the Manufacturer. They're currently offering Free Shipping on most ellipticals which can save you about $150.
