NordicTrack Commercial X32i Incline Treadmill Review 2023

NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill vs Similar Treadmills

Here is a quick overview of how this NordicTrack Commercial X32i review compares to other treadmills in its class.

In-depth NordicTrack X32i Treadmill Review: Testing & Analysis

Dimensions/Storability

The NordicTrack Commercial X32i Incline Trainer is a non-folding treadmill with large dimensions and a heavyweight. It is 76.5” L x 40” W x 73” H. With its size, we recommend having a designated for it to stay and not be moved. The X32i weighs around 462 lbs when it’s delivered in the box, so it’s a very heavy treadmill that’s difficult to move.

With everything the X32i offers, we don’t expect this treadmill to be compact or lightweight.

There are two front transport wheels mounted under the frame. When you lift up the backend of the deck, the wheels engage to move it around. So, although it is heavy, it can be moved when needed, but you’ll probably not want to move it around often. When you have to move it, you might want an extra hand, too. I’m able to move around some pretty heavy manual treadmills, but Matt, who is 6’5”, has to help me move the X32i.

In addition to the dimensions of the floor space that the NordicTrack X32i occupies, we recommend factoring in a few extra feet surrounding the deck so you can use it safely. You also want to ensure that your ceiling is tall enough to use the X32i and all of its features. This treadmill has a pretty tall deck at 15” high, when flat. Also, considering its high degree of incline, this treadmill requires a higher ceiling than others.

For someone who is 6’0” we recommend having at least a 9’ 6” high ceiling. The ceiling height requirements will vary depending on your height, so make sure to check out our proper ceiling heights for treadmills guidelines to make sure you’ll have plenty of room for the X32i in your home. A good rule of thumb with this treadmill is to add 43” to your height in inches.

Onboard Workouts & Apps

More and more treadmills on the market come with subscription training content and touch screens. To give you this full NordicTrack X32i review, here’s what is available as far as workouts and entertainment content on the X32i.

iFIT

Being from NordicTrack, the X32i comes enabled with iFIT. iFIT is a popular training platform that’s available on all NordicTrack’s equipment. The library consists of over 17,000 workout classes led by instructors. It’s comparable to other training platforms, like Peloton, however, it does have some stand-out features that I’m about to get into. First, though, let’s talk about pricing.

iFIT functions similarly to a gym membership. You pay a monthly fee, or a lump sum upfront to use it, like you would at your local gym. If you’re like me, having to pay a fee for something encourages me to use it. So, I like the accountability that iFIT gives me to keep up with my training, which turns into using the X32i regularly. iFIT costs $39 per month when you pay for the membership monthly. When purchasing the X32i, NordicTrack offers the option to pay upfront for a 1-year, 2-year, or 3-year membership. If you know you’re going to use iFIT, paying for a membership in advance has its perks.

A 1-year membership is $336 which is $28 per month, a 2-year membership is $524 which is around $22 per month, and a 3-year membership is $629 is only $17 per month. So, even though your upfront cost is more, you’re really saving money over time. iFIT also comes free for the first month if you’re a new member, so you can try it out before you subscribe.

What makes iFIT one of the best subscription training platforms is not only the large library of on-demand workouts that you can take any time but its outdoor classes.

These workouts are filmed literally on every continent.

You can run through trails in Romania, and hike up areas of Chile while following an instructor. The instructor serves as a tour guide as well as a trainer to guide you through the workout. They provide instruction, motivation, and often fun facts about the location during each class.

Some of the outdoor workouts are even filmed during real-life events like the Boston and Chicago Marathons. You follow an iFIT instructor who guides you through the race and each race is available to take in different parts or you can take each part one after the other to complete the entire race in one training session.

There are also indoor workouts filmed in professional studios. These are modeled after in-person studio fitness classes. The camera points at the instructor who leads the workout and often times participants who are taking the class in person are seen in the background.

Along with plenty of running, walking, hiking, and other treadmill workouts, iFIT offers classes on other equipment like exercise bikes, rowers, and ellipticals. There are also mat classes for yoga, meditation, and strength training. So, the NordicTrack X32i includes more than just workouts you can take on the treadmill, you can follow up your run with a yoga session directly from the treadmill’s screen. Note: the workouts on the other equipment aren’t available to take on the X32i.

If you don’t always want to follow along with an instructor, you can draw your own routes using the Google Map feature. This feature gives you access to a world map where you can create a route to hike, run, or walk on your own. During the workout, Google Images of the location are displayed on the screen.

During each workout, and in Google Maps, music will play in the background. The music functions like a radio with different stations to choose from. Each station has a preselected playlist of songs to listen to. The music seems to be updated fairly regularly. I do wish that some of the indoor-filmed classes would feature music playing in real-time as the workout is filmed. I think this would help add to the overall experience of those workouts.

Overall, for the training options that iFIT provides, it is definitely worth it to subscribe, especially on the NordicTrack X32i Treadmill. iFIT pairs really nicely with the console and touch screen that I get into below.

OnBoard Workouts

You can, of course, use the X32i without a subscription to iFIT. Without a subscription, you have access to manual mode as well as a featured iFIT class. The featured iFIT class changes occasionally to give you a little more variety. Manual mode is the main feature without an iFIT subscription, however. Manual mode doesn’t require wifi without a subscription to iFIT. Manual mode is also available to use with iFIT.

Something to make note of is that streaming from Netflix and other outside apps isn’t available on the NordicTrack X32i. There also isn’t a place to hold your phone or tablet to view your own content, which means you’re locked into iFIT and manual mode on the touch screen.

Console

The NordicTrack Commercial X32i Incline Treadmill has an impressive 32” touch screen. This is where you stream iFIT workouts and access manual mode. As I mentioned above, this is the largest screen size we’ve seen on treadmills. It is huge so you’re able to see everything really well and navigate it easily.

Like the NordicTrack X22i’s screen, it tilts up and down slightly to help avoid overhead glare. The X32i’s screen isn’t as adjustable as NordicTrack’s Commercial Series treadmills, but it doesn’t need to be with its size.

The overall layout of the console is easy to use.

The numbered quick-touch adjustment buttons on either side of the screen make adjusting the NordicTrack X32i really quick and simple. The right side adjusts the speed. Each number coincides with a speed level, and if you want to adjust by 0.1 increments you can press two numbers in a row. So, if you press 6 and 4 back to back, the treadmill will adjust to 6.4 mph. The left side adjusts the incline to the grade listed. In order to adjust the incline by 0.5%, you have to use the arrow buttons below the speakers. There are also buttons on the right to adjust the speed, too.

You have the option for hands-free training on the X32i, as well. In iFIT, the AutoAdjust feature automatically adjusts the treadmill’s speed and incline settings based on the format of each workout. When you’re taking an outdoor workout, the X32i will also adjust the incline and decline based on the terrain.

AutoAdjust is one of my favorite iFIT features. Once you take a few classes, the technology remembers your effort levels. So, for future workouts, you’ll find that you’re able to keep up with the instructor, while still being pushed to increase your fitness over time.

The X32i also adjusts based on your heart rate when you’re paired with a compatible monitor. You can purchase NordicTrack’s SmartBeat armband or connect to ones from Garmin, Polar, Whoop, or Wahoo. With your heart rate, the ActivePulse technology in iFIT’s workouts adjusts the treadmill based on your heart rate to keep you within specific heart rate zones.

The speakers are Bluetooth-enabled to pair with your Bluetooth headphones. You can’t pair them with your device to play your own content through them. In iFIT you can control the music and trainer’s voice volumes to be balanced or to mute one or the other. With and without headphones, the X32i’s speakers have a good volume range and sound clear. We haven’t had any problems with NordicTrack’s treadmills’ speakers.

In between the speakers are the fans which provide a good amount of airflow. They have multiple settings.

One thing to keep in mind with the large screen on the console is that the 2 cupholders are positioned behind it. This means, to reach your water you have to reach around the sides of the screen. The cupholders hold your water bottle in place though. There isn’t a designated device rack.

The horizontal bar extends up in front of the screen and some of the adjustment buttons. This handle gets in the way of the console a little bit, but overall it doesn’t impact the X32i’s functionality or ease of use.

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Build Quality

Now, let’s get into the overall construction in this NordicTrack Commercial X32i Incline Treadmill review. One thing I want to point out is that even though The X32i has the word “Commercial” in the title, this treadmill isn’t made for commercial use. The X32i is a premium home treadmill. In comparison, commercial treadmills are rated for public use in gyms that see foot traffic all throughout the day. These treadmills are also priced significantly more than the X32i.

The X32i has a 300 lb weight limit that is standard for NordicTrack Treadmills. This isn’t the highest weight limit that we see on treadmills. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 has a 400 lb limit which is the largest limit we usually see on motorized treadmills. Considering the NordicTrack X32i’s high incline and decline range, this treadmill handles a pretty great amount of weight. Users up to this limit should be able to utilize all of the X32i’s features.

Frame

The X32i from NordicTrack is made with quality materials for a stable and durable build that handles a lot of use. In the over 3 years we’ve had our model of the X32i, this treadmill has been proven to be stable and well-constructed.

The steel frame supports the base of the deck and sits on the floor. Since this is a non-folding treadmill, the frame extends to the entire length of the deck, rather than just under the front part.

The frame is why the X32i is such a heavy treadmill. The frame is also what allows it to incline up to 40%.

From the floor frame, two steel uprights connect and extend up to hold the console, touch screen, and handles in place. Everything remains stable on the console. Even though the front horizontal handle blocks the bottom of the screen and console slightly, it provides a good base to grab when you need balance. The upper handles are also helpful, especially when you’re fully inclined. They have a good texture that doesn’t feel slick, too.

Motor

The NordicTrack Commercial X32i has an impressive 4.25 CHP motor. This is a large motor size for home treadmills. In our testing, the X32i’s motor has handled distance training and high-intensity workouts really well. It is because of this that we recommend this premium treadmill for distance runners and hikers. It’s also a great choice if you have multiple people in your household who want to spend a lot of time on a treadmill.

In addition to being powerful, the motor is also quiet. When recorded at speeds from 3 mph up to 12 mph, the decibels ranged from 51.5 to 65.8. Even at its highest speeds, the X32i generates similar noise output to a printer or a window fan. For reference, the ambient room noise was 35 dB before turning on the treadmill. With its low noise output, the X32i is really non-disruptive and appropriate for most homes.

The X32i goes up to 12 mph which is a 5-minute mile running pace. This is a quick pace that provides plenty of range to choose from for most people. Unless you’re a high-level runner, you should find the 1-12 mph range to provide plenty of challenge.

We timed how quick the motor is to adjust the speed. It takes around 23 seconds to go from 1 mph up to 12 mph. It is responsive and great for interval training. It isn’t quite as fast as Horizon’s premium treadmill, the 7.8 AT, but it only takes a few more seconds to adjust. Those few extra seconds won’t leave you waiting on this treadmill though.

The drive motor that controls the pace of the belt is positioned under the rear of the deck, so it’s out of the way.

The X32i doesn’t have a motor hood at the front of the deck, so you don’t have to worry about hitting anything while running.

There is a separate motor to adjust the incline and decline under the deck, too. This allows the X32i to incline up to 40% and decline to -6%. Both are the highest incline and decline levels that we’ve seen offered on treadmills.

The incline motor is positioned in front of the drive motor under the deck.

The incline and decline are extremely impressive and make for very challenging workout options. This is where the upper handles on the console are needed. I can barely keep a decent walking pace with the deck fully inclined on the NordicTrack X32i.

I usually have to hold onto the handles periodically while inclined, too.

Along with the upper handles for balance, the X32i has max speed settings for certain incline and decline ranges to help keep you safe while using this treadmill’s training features. At a 16% incline the speed tops at 8 mph and at a 25% and above incline, the speed goes up to 6 mph max. While declining, the speed goes up to an 8 mph max at -3%, and at the full -6% decline, the speed maxes out at 6 mph.

Considering how challenging the incline and decline are, these speed ranges should still provide plenty of range for most people.

The incline and decline adjust quickly for interval training, too. From 0% up to the full 40% it takes around 24 seconds and it only takes 5 seconds to adjust the -6% decline from 0%.

We measured the accuracy of the incline and decline as we do on other treadmills we review. At a flat grade, the deck measured at 0%. Many other treadmills we’ve tested, including others from NordicTrack have a slight incline when the deck is adjusted to the treadmills’ 0%. So, the X32i is very accurate. The decline is also very accurate at -6.3%. The incline measured at 38.8%, so not quite 40%, but with this small of a difference, you won’t notice. This isn’t factoring in the cushioning which is the amount of give in the deck when you’re walking and running on the treadmill.

Along with all of these training features, the NordicTrack X32i also lets you do sled-pushing. When you set the speed to 1 mph at a flat grade, you can push the belt with your feet while holding the handles to mimic pushing a weighted sled in the gym. This allows you to engage even more muscles and adds even more variety to your training.

Deck

Runners, hikers, and walkers also have plenty of room to do all that the X32i offers on the deck. It is 22” wide and 65” long to accommodate all stride lengths. 60” is what we’ve found to handle most runners. The X32i just offers a little bit more length in case you need it and have space in your home for it.

The deck also has a fairly high step-up height of 15” when flat, so keep this in mind if you have mobility issues. It isn’t as low as other treadmills.

Runners and walkers of all sizes will have plenty of room up on the comfortable belt.

This is one of the most comfortable running decks we’ve used. The cushioning is very absorbent and forgiving on the joints. If you have joint sensitivity, the X32i is a treadmill to consider. I love how comfortable it feels underfoot while running.

At speeds over 9 mph, it can feel a little bouncy, so just keep this in mind. If you prefer running on a firmer surface, you might want to consider the Sole TT8 or Sole F85. The cushioning on these treadmills feels more similar to running outside on roads.

If you’re looking for a really well-cushioned deck and a treadmill that comes with maximum training features though, the NordicTrack X32i is it. It’s definitely worth it and the solid construction pairs really well with all of its features.

Warranty

When you purchase the NordicTrack X32i Incline Trainer, it comes with a 10-year frame, 2-year parts, and a 1-year labor warranty. This is NordicTrack’s standard warranty. For set-up, having multiple people is very helpful because of its large size and weight.

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Should You Buy The NordicTrack Commercial X32i Treadmill

When it comes to features and build quality, the NordicTrack X32i offers the best of the best. If you’re looking for a home treadmill with maximum features, the X32i is the one to consider. The 32” touch screen is the largest screen we’ve seen thus far on treadmills. It offers streaming from iFIT with a subscription. iFIT’s content is really unmatched when it comes to the outdoor workouts. You can train all over the world from the comfort of the X32i’s deck.

Speaking of comfort, this treadmill has some of the best deck cushioning we’ve tested. It’s forgiving on your joints to help minimize the high impact that running involves. The X32i is also a highly challenging treadmill when you utilize all of its training capabilities. The 40% incline and -6% decline make you feel like you’re hiking up and down actual mountains and the 12 mph max speed will cause most runners to work up a great sweat. It’s also quiet, easy to use, and fun! If you have the space for this non-folding treadmill and are looking for the best premium home treadmill on the market, we highly encourage you to look into the NordicTrack X32i.

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NordicTrack Commercial X32i Treadmill Review FAQs / Q&A’s

Can you use the NordicTrack X32i Treadmill without a membership?

Yes, you can use the NordicTrack X32i without a subscription to iFIT. Without iFIT, you have access to the manual mode which doesn’t require even wifi to use. This is where you adjust the treadmill yourself. There is also a free featured iFIT workout available to follow along with, without a subscription. The featured workout changes monthly to give you a preview of what iFIT has to offer.

To get the most out of the X32i’s touch screen, we do recommend checking out iFIT. With the thousands of workouts available and AutoAdjust and ActivePulse technology, as well as the Google Maps feature, having a subscription is really worth it on the beautiful 32” touch screen.

Does the X32i fold up?

The NordicTrack X32i doesn’t fold up. With everything this treadmill has to offer and can do, we are glad it doesn’t fold up. This does mean that it requires a designated space in your home to use, but if you have the room and budget, it’s definitely worth it.

Is there a free version of iFIT?

The free version of iFIT includes a manual mode that tracks your workout metrics in real-time. There is also a free iFIT featured workout you can take without paying for a subscription to iFIT.

Is your NordicTrack X32i Commercial Treadmill review a paid review?

No, our review of the NordicTrack X32i isn’t paid. NordicTrack and other popular fitness brands send us their treadmills and equipment to test and compile reviews of, but our reviews reflect our completely unbiased opinions. We earn commissions if you use our affiliate links in reviews, but this is how we’re able to keep creating quality content and provide you with informed information. Our goal is to help you find the best treadmill for you. We work to test out models from several brands so that when we determine our top recommendations, they reflect our experience using all kinds of treadmills on the market.

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About the Author

Sydney Kaiser, ISSA-CPT, ISSA Nutritionist Certification
Sydney is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer, and sports nutritionist who combines her passion for fitness, health, and wellness with her passion for writing. After graduating from UC Riverside with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, she began teaching indoor cycling and Lagree Fitness group fitness classes to people of all ages and abilities. Raised in Central Michigan, Sydney grew up training and competing on the Arabian Horse Association circuit through both Regional and National levels in Dressage and Sport Horse classes. In college, Sydney went on to compete at the collegiate level as a Division 1 equestrian athlete. Here at TRG, Sydney relies on her extensive background in fitness when reviewing and recommending all kinds of fitness, recovery, and health-related products.

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