When I’m dreaming up the ultimate treadmill, images of the NordicTrack Commercial X22i pop into my head. Not only does the X22i model have an industry-leading 40% incline, but it also simulates downhill movement with -6% decline. Although it costs $3,499, it’s not as expensive as some of its rivals with ultra-loaded features. A top-seller always, I’d advise you check out the entire lineup of NordicTrack’s Black Friday deals which include this and other great machines.

NordicTrack named their high-powered incline trainer treadmill the X22i after its super-sized, 22-inch Smart HD touchscreen that supports customized workout programming through iFit. As I use this treadmill I’m reminded of going to the movie theatre, frankly. The screen is very dynamic and given the short distance from it and you, you’re really on the workout trails running those mountains too, right alongside your iFit trainer. Who needs an expensive gym membership or personal trainer with an interactive treadmill screen like this? AutoAdjust Technology makes for quicker incline and decline transitions as well as ActivePulse Technology for interactive heart rate training. If you’re up for the challenge, keep reading my in-depth, hands-on review, and learn why we’ve awarded it with the best overall deal for an incline trainer.

But be prepared, this model is obviously much larger than average, and no, it doesn’t fold. Measuring 70″ x 39″ x 72.5″ at an in-box weight of 417 pounds, it can sport up to 300 pounds in user weight. It comes with 2.5″ rollers and a 4.0 CHP motor, which obviously are needed to support the 40% incline potential at speeds up to 12 miles per hour.

Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The NordicTrack Commercial X22i

At TreadmillReviews.net, we bring you comprehensive reviews of treadmills so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the treadmills we review. We install them, walk on them, run on them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every treadmill we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles on the deck. We listen and record the sound of the motor, we test and measure the incline/decline, try out all aspects of the console and try the treadmill’s features, such as iFit.

Every treadmill we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think. This particular treadmill has been around for many years, and we’ve done previous reviews of the NordicTrack Commercial X22i. So, in this review, we also compared it to the previous models.

Our reviewers are treadmill and fitness experts. Jessica, the author of this review, is a NASM-certified personal trainer and coach who also holds and MBA in marketing. When not working with clients, she’s usually training seniors at the local YMCA as well as college and high school athletes.

In Brief

The 2023 NordicTrack Commercial X22i is a big ol’ dream machine if you’re into incline and decline workouts. Part of the iFit lineup, the machine comes designed for that program and offers automatic trainer control and Bluetooth heartrate programming. The 22-inch screen is built to work with iFit and iFit alone though, so no, you can’t watch Netflix on it, much as I’d like to. That said, iFit does include both live and on-demand programs which include scenic workouts all around the world. If you want the benefit of high intensity interval training (HIIT) at inclines up to 40%, all while participating in live action on a giant screen, this is definitely your treadmill for the price of $3,499. Obviously this is a luxury treadmill for very specific users. The downsides are obvious as the treadmill is significantly larger and heavier than the norm.

NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill – Pros & Cons (2024) - Key Specs:

NordicTrack Commercial X22i Video Review

In-Depth Review of the NordicTrack Commercial X22i

Why We Like It

The NordicTrack Commercial x22i is a dream machine. If you have a garage gym with plenty of space, or are a professional trainer with a small group of clients though, this machine could make a lot of sense. Priced at $3,499 it’s clearly not for the budget-minded shopper, but a 40% incline is a sight to behold. If you’re wondering how to use such an incline, keep in mind some of my best workouts have included hiking and walking with a weighted vest. You’ll burn your quads like a forest fire on this. It’s 6% decline provides a terrific match, and with speeds up to 12 miles per hour, there’s really nothing you can’t do. This also syncs with their Bluetooth heart rate training program ActivePulse, which can also alter the resistance to match your heartbeat. 

It Comes With a Bombastic 22″ Console

The 22-inch smart HD touchscreen on NordicTrack’s Commercial X22i model makes it easy to interact with iFit programming. Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

The NordicTrack X22i stands apart in the industry with its 22” Smart HD Touchscreen with optimized HD graphics performance and added processor cooling. If you’re planning to invest in this machine, it’s definitely worth the extra cost to pay for iFit programming. Since the screen is limited to use with the popular fitness app, it just makes sense, and you can take advantage of endless, boutique-level fitness experiences for a fraction of the cost. 

The touchscreen certainly takes center-stage, but there’s more to the overall presentation of the console than the eye-catching HD graphics. Vertically positioned on the left-hand side are the OneTouch incline controls complemented on the right-hand side with the OneTouch speed controls. They make it easy to quickly set your speed and/or incline as you begin your workout, and it also allows you to make changes during manual interval training.

If you need more precise speed/incline control, the up and down buttons allow you to adjust incline in 0.5% increments and speed in .01 MPH increments. I find this helpful during heart rate training when I need to make smaller tweaks. While some prefer raised buttons, the flat controls are very responsive, and you don’t have to push hard on the buttons to engage. Working our way into the middle, we see the Start and Stop buttons located on either side of the emergency stop key.

Watch My Video Review of the NordicTrack Commercial X22i

Speed and Incline

For serious incline training, look no further than the X22i. With a range of -6% to 40%, it leads the industry in the $3,000 price range. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

The NordicTrack X22i is renowned for its industry-leading incline/decline range of -6% to 40% powered by a hydraulic lift system. When walking uphill, you engage your glutes and hamstrings, and walking at a decline shifts the focus toward the quads. Either way, you’re introducing strength training to your cardio workout, a great way to enhance your overall wellness in a single session. 

Incline training is ideal for weight loss as well. By walking or running on the most extreme incline setting, you can burn calories at about five times your usual rate. To keep you entertained through the burn, the track will change incline in sync with the program or Google Street View workout you choose to view on-screen.

AutoAdjust™ Technology

The beauty of iFit programming comes with the AutoAdjust™ technology. Your trainers on-screen are able to match their workouts to yours for a truly immersive experience. Of the various fitness classes I teach, spin classes can be the most difficult as it can be nearly impossible to communicate the precise level of resistance to add during our workouts. With iFit, your trainer is able to take the reins, removing the guesswork on your part and making the entire experience more seamless.

Push Bar and Sled Grips

NordicTrack’s X22i sled grips allow you to power up your workout for a more intense calorie burn and increased strength training. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

When you first set up your treadmill, the handles seem a little dramatic. However, when you max out the incline, you quickly realize the purpose of the sled grips. You’re positioned much higher when you reach 40%, and the handles are within reach. Using the push bar and sled grips as part of your incline training allows you to burn more calories and tone muscles in the legs and core as you power through extreme uphill hikes as they simulate the feeling of pushing a weighted sled.

Smart-Response Drive System

Speed and incline response is important. It can be highly disruptive when it takes a long time for your cardio machine to speed up, slow down, and move up and down during interval training. NordicTrack incorporates their Smart-Response Drive System to ensure these transitions are as quick and smooth as possible. 

To get from 0 mph to 12 mph, it takes about 20 seconds. If you engage in interval training, expect transitions at a rate of 1.66 seconds for each 1 MPH increment of change. To go from 0% to 40% max incline, it takes 20 seconds, or 2% per second. 

iFit Programming with AutoAdjust Trainer Controls

With your 30-day iFit trial, you get access to much more than simple stat tracking and workout suggestions. iFit is designed to offer a full-spectrum of exercise options for all fitness levels. Aside from treadmill training, you can also pair with compatible bikes, rowers, and ellipticals. Off-machine, you can do strength training, yoga, mindfulness routines, and even participate in special series covering critical wellness components like sleep, neuroscience, leadership, focus, nutrition, anxiety, breathwork, mindfulness and more. 

The 22” touchscreen is much larger than many other products, and it really helps you immerse yourself into the scenic locations featured on iFit programs. The AutoAdjust™ controls match whatever topography you see on screen, and it does a great job at making you really feel like you’re there. 

You get some options when it comes to volume when using iFit. You can choose to adjust the volume of the music and trainer’s voice separately. Unlike some fitness apps that restrict music options, iFit features current hits more likely to appeal to a larger audience. 

The family membership allows for multiple user profiles on the account. I love that there are off-treadmill workouts available. You can see my NordicTrack Select-A-Weight dumbbells in several of these images, and they can serve as a great addition to your purchase for a well-rounded fitness experience. My only complaint would be that, since the screen doesn’t tilt or pivot, you can’t really see it all that well when you’re doing off-treadmill workouts, so you’ll need a tablet or other device when doing other types of exercise. I’ve read other reviews that say the screen does tilt, but, as you can see in my video review above, this just isn’t the case. 

NordicTrack’s Commercial X22i features the broadest incline/decline range. Here, I climb a steep hill using iFit programming at max incline of 40%. Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Construction

The welded steel construction of the NordicTrack X22i treadmill makes it strong and sturdy, a must for intensive incline training. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

Frame

The NordicTrack X22i is made of welded, reinforced steel that’s powder-coated for protection from corrosion. Although this makes it heavy, it’s also a solid piece of machinery built to hold up against more aggressive training. This is especially important considering the extreme incline max. Steel is more stable than the aluminum alternative, but it is susceptible to rust and corrosion. Make sure you follow NordicTrack’s suggested maintenance schedule, and wipe the machine down to remove sweat after each use. 

A lot of thought went into the frame design. For starters, the motor is positioned under the rear deck whereas most treadmills put them in the front. This provides extra room for your stride on your tread belt. I also appreciate the way the support beams curve to bring the console closer while you use the treadmill without compromising on stride length, especially when you’re maxed out at 40% incline. NordicTrack really thought of it all as they designed the X22i.

Assembly is easy, but getting the machine into the house is difficult, especially if you’re trying to do it on your own. I’d highly recommend paying an extra $299 for room of choice assembly. My delivery crew was able to assemble in less than 15 minutes.

Deck

The NordicTrack X22i running deck measures 22”W x 60”L, allowing plenty of space for tall/fast runners. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

Running Deck Length and Width

The NordicTrack X22i track measures 22”W x 60”L. For comparison, a typical club treadmill has a 20”W x 60”L track, so the X22i is downright roomy. If you plan on using your treadmill primarily for walking, this may be a bit excessive unless you’re drawn to the extreme incline. Otherwise, walkers should check out our roundup of the best treadmills for walkers.

Cushioning

The X22i’s spring cushioning reduces impact and represents NordicTrack’s most cushioned deck. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

Storage and Portability

If you’re working with a small space, this may not be the best treadmill for you since it’s large and doesn’t fold. I’d recommend checking out our favorite folding treadmills. However, if a sturdy incline trainer is what you’re in the market for, you’ll definitely need to map out where you plan to put it. 

The NordicTrack X22i has a footprint of 70”L x 39”W x 72.5”H. Let’s break those measurements down. The length and width are pretty self explanatory. You’ll need a 6’x4’ rectangular space for your treadmill to live, but, especially with an incline trainer, vertical space is critical. 

When assessing the treadmill height listed in the specs, this is reflective of the height of the machine itself and doesn’t factor in the user and how far their head will be from the ceiling. Use the following formula to ensure you have ample ceiling space:

Step-Up Height (14”) + Tallest User Height + 3 feet < Ceiling Height

If you plan on maxing out the 40% incline, you need to do a little more math as the deck elevates a total of 33” from the floor. 

Max Incline Height (33”) + Tallest User Height + 3 feet < Ceiling Height

You can see why the footprint specs can be deceiving when it comes to vertical space. While it would seem you only need about six feet of vertical space, to facilitate maximum incline for someone standing six feet tall, you’ll need a ceiling of around 12 feet high.

It’s very heavy, but you can move the X22i treadmill relatively easily with the front transport wheels. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmillReviews.net

The X22i weighs 417 lbs., but that doesn’t mean you can’t move it around if you need to. The transport wheels located in the front allow you to roll it easily across uncarpeted floors. It’s easiest to achieve movement when you set the deck to a slight incline of around 10%.Due to its heavy weight, you should consider a treadmill mat with your purchase to protect your floor.

Motor

The extreme incline/decline of the NordicTrack X22i treadmill is made possible with a powerful, 4.0 CHP motor. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

To facilitate such an extreme incline range, the NordicTrack X22i needs a powerful motor, and that’s what it has with the self-cooling, 4.25 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus motor. You can read our helpful motor guide for more information, but, in a nutshell, 4.0 is on the higher end of the spectrum, and it’s measured using the continuous duty rating system, meaning it indicates how power is maintained through your workout, not just peak power. 

Unlike most treadmills that place the motor in the front of the deck, the X22i motor is located in the back. Not only does this reduce the size of the motor hood to allow more space for your foot strike, but it makes it possible to achieve the incredible 40% incline. The incline motor is visible during use, but the primary motor that powers the machine lives beneath the protective hood. To keep from overheating, the X22i motor is self-cooling, an important feature for a product capable of such intensive training.

The 4.25 CHP motor on the X22i works in conjunction with the incline drive seen on the left-hand side. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

With such a powerful motor, noise can be a factor, so I performed a test using my decibel meter on my phone. Here’s how it weighed in:

• 3 mph- 40 decibels, comparable to normal conversation
• 6 mph- 51 decibels, comparable to the sound of a dishwasher
• 9 mph- 52 decibels, comparable to the sound of a running car
• 12 mph- 61 decibels, comparable to the sound of a vacuum cleaner

Even though it features a more powerful motor, the X22i noise was comparable to the popular Sole F80.

Accessories

NordicTrack pulls all the stops with the X22i, ensuring you have the accessories needed to keep your workouts engaging and as comfortable as possible. Its Bluetooth headphone connectivity allows you to sync your preferred wireless audio device to enjoy workout music and/or your iFit trainer without bothering others in the home. 

Two 3” digitally-amplified speakers are included if you prefer not to use headphones. Located beneath the screen, you can also use the recently enhanced speakers to connect with your smart device to stream your favorite music while you workout. Behind the screen are two large storage areas where you can fit your water bottle, phone, or other items. While it may seem a bit inconvenient having your water bottle behind the screen, due to the extreme incline, this is the best place the storage pockets could be placed. 

The X22i’s dual AutoBreeze™ workout fans feature variable speed and provide needed relief during intense training. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

The iFit Bluetooth chest strap is an innovative feature. Not only does it provide an accurate heart rate readout, but it’s able to communicate with your iFit programming, allowing the X22i to auto-adjust to maintain the target heart rate. All the while, dual AutoBreeze™ workout fans are powerful and make a big difference in keeping you cool. 

The X22i doesn’t include a tablet holder. If you use iFit, this shouldn’t be a big problem. However, if you enjoy watching your favorite show or doing other activities on your smart device while you workout, this may be a problem.

Rollers

The X22i treadmill’s 2.5″ rollers are able to maintain a better grip on the belt and keep it running cool. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

Treadmills typically have two rollers. They are cylindrical pieces located at the front and back of the deck that attach to the belt to keep it, as the name implies, rolling. As the most commonly broken parts on a treadmill, it’s good to take a look at quality. 

The larger the roller, the better grip it can get on the belt. Larger size also improves durability since it reduces the risk of the treadmill running hot. Common diameter sizes we see in the industry are 1.6” and 2.5”, and, with the X22i, 2.5” Precision and Balanced Non-Flex Rollers are excellent indicators of a belt that will keep rolling and stay on straight.

Belt

Rather than a solid rubber construction, the X22i belt is 2-ply, meaning an added layer is placed on the bottom to reduce noise and improve durability. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmilReviews.net

The belt takes the brunt of each workout, and you can look at its layering to get an idea of how it should stand up. Common tread belts are 1-ply, 2-ply, and 3-ply. A single ply belt is a solid piece of rubber whereas 2-ply belts add an underside of cotton, polyester, urethane or mono-filament. The X22i has a 2-ply belt, and this is the sweet spot. It’s quiet, durable, and results in less heat buildup, meaning you don’t have to lubricate as often. Three-ply belts are more common on orthopedic treadmills to add cushioning, but the added weight can reduce durability with increased heat build-up.

Delivery

NordicTrack uses third party freight shipping companies to deliver their products, and this can be a headache at times. Issues like late deliveries and delayed customer service response are not a reflection of the manufacturer, and there are some tips to improve your delivery experience. 

For starters, have realistic expectations. Freight delivery typically comes from the nearest large city, and they cannot guarantee a specific delivery time. Be prepared to take half a day off work or otherwise ensure someone can be home to receive the delivery on the scheduled day. It can also be a good idea to print the confirmation email once you make your purchase. It includes your tracking number and contact information for the freight company, making it easier to clear up any issues that may come up. 

What We Don’t Like:

• Short Warranty

  Yes, you get 10 years on the frame, but only two years on parts and one year on labor. Given the price here, I’d expect to see more. This is a standard warranty offered by NordicTrack and in fairness, I’ve yet to have a problem with a unit from this brand, but for $3,499 I’m still a little disappointed by the warranty.

• iFit-Dependent

  Yes, the machine will work without the $39 per month iFit program, but you’ll lose the value of the giant 22-inch screen and might as well shop around a bit. The treadmill effectively goes into a manual-only mode as there are no built-in programs. At this point it simply must be said, if you’re not going to use the iFit program, all you’re really getting is the 40% incline and -6% decline.

• Weight Capacity

  A high weight capacity is a sign the machine is capable of standing up under heavy loads. Especially considering the NordicTrack X22i can reach a 40% incline, I ‘m a little surprised this isn’t rated higher. Other units from rival brands support up to 400 pounds with smaller frames.

This Treadmill Could Be Right If You Want:

My Final Verdict

The roomy deck, dual fans, and excellent cushioning make running at 12 MPH a comfortable experience. Photo by: Jessica Jones / TreadmillReviews.net

Although the full price is $3,499, purchase includes a 30-day trial of the Family Membership to iFit. I’m in love with the incline range, and, despite the price, the X22i made our pick for Best Overall Value Incline Trainer for 2023. Comparable products only feature an incline of 30% and will run you as high as $12,000, so the X22i really is a great deal. With recent changes at NordicTrack, warranties across the board have been shortened to 10 years on frames, 2 years on parts and electronics, and 1 year on labor. Unfortunately this just doesn’t keep up with their competitors and is a bit of a disappointment. I also hope they make changes to improve their customer service experience.

The new X22i has just about everything: high power, serious Quiet Drive incline/decline, and fantastic electronics. As a favorite luxury treadmill, the X22i Incline Trainer offers an impressively immersive workout. Highlights include a steep incline, a strong motor, an extra-wide HD screen, and iFit programming for customized training. This is one of the top treadmills on the market. 

For some shoppers the price is just too high. Its price tag is the only significant drawback, and no matter what deal you get, this machine comes at a premium price. For the serious runner looking for a treadmill built to offer exceptional training, immersive workouts, and an industry-leading incline range, the NordicTrack X22i is my number one recommendation. 

Check Price

What’s Changed For This Year
Each year a few models get upgrades. Larger screens, stronger motors, or better tech are common. Occasionally you will see two treadmills with the same name on the manufacturers site, which is confusing enough for us treadmill experts, let alone a new consumer. Below is a quick breakdown of what is new on the latest version of this treadmill.

New for 2022 (January 2022 release)

New for 2021 (November 2020 release)

Recent Updates

• November 11, 2023: Updated specs and pricing.
• January 4, 2023: Did a hands-on review. Updated entire article with details like step-up height, max incline height, transition rates, images of motor, and much more.
• October 24, 2022: Added photos from personal use, updated FAQs, and added pros and cons table.
• July 13, 2021: Added some FAQs to the page.
• July 24, 2021: Updated the specs to include the Integrated Sled Push feature and reduced noise levels.
• April 1, 2022: Updated specs and FAQs.