Nordic S45i Treadmill Review

The NordicTrack S45i is a well-rounded treadmill built for home users who want a high-performance machine with smart capabilities and a comfortable running experience. Positioned as a premium home treadmill, the S45i combines a powerful motor, spacious running deck, and iFit integration to deliver a connected, challenging, and user-friendly workout platform. This review covers the S45i’s features, strengths, drawbacks, training performance, and who it’s best suited for.

Key Features of the Nordic S45i

The Nordic S45i is designed for runners and fitness enthusiasts who need a machine that can handle frequent and varied training. Its durable frame and interactive features make it ideal for both casual and serious home workouts.

• Dimensions: 202 x 91 x 151 cm (approx. 79.5 x 36 x 59.5 in)
• Motor: 3.0 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor
• Running Belt: 20” x 60” (51 x 152 cm)
• Incline Range: 0 – 12% digital incline
• Speed Range: 0 – 22 km/h (approx. 13.7 MPH)
• User Capacity: 136 kg (approx. 300 lbs)
• Display: 10” full-color HD touchscreen
• Workout Programs: iFit-enabled with unlimited trainer-led workouts (subscription required)
• Smart Features: AutoAdjust™ technology for incline and speed
• Cushioning: FlexSelect™ cushioning system
• Folding: SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist

The inclusion of a 10-inch HD touchscreen gives the S45i a significant edge in usability and engagement over models with basic consoles.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 3.0 CHP motor is strong enough for daily running and interval training
• Full-color 10″ HD touchscreen enhances user experience
• iFit integration includes global runs, studio classes, and auto-adjust features
• FlexSelect cushioning offers adjustable shock absorption
• Long, spacious belt fits users of all heights and running styles
• 12% incline adds effective calorie burn and muscle engagement
• Folds easily with SpaceSaver and EasyLift features
• Bluetooth audio and built-in speakers add entertainment flexibility

Cons:

• Requires iFit subscription for full functionality (only limited features without it)
• No decline feature (incline only)
• Bulky when unfolded — requires a dedicated workout space
• Setup may take time and likely needs two people

Ideal for Intermediate to Advanced Home Runners

The Nordic S45i is ideal for users who want an immersive treadmill experience at home. With its high-definition screen, responsive incline/speed transitions, and professional-grade training programs, it suits those who are serious about progressing in their cardio routines.

It’s particularly well-suited for intermediate and advanced users who need consistent performance, want real-time workout adjustments, and value guided coaching or scenic runs for motivation.

Performance and Training Experience

With a powerful 3.0 CHP motor, the S45i is capable of supporting long-distance runs, interval workouts, and incline-based training without lag or overheating. Speed changes are smooth and fast, making it a reliable option for high-intensity sessions.

The 60-inch deck length gives runners plenty of room to extend their stride comfortably, while the 20-inch width allows for lateral stability. FlexSelect™ cushioning lets users tailor the deck firmness based on preference or injury prevention.

iFit’s AutoAdjust™ technology automatically changes your speed and incline to match the trainer’s cues or the terrain of a virtual route, offering a hands-free, immersive experience.

Smart Features and Display

The standout feature of the S45i is its 10” HD touchscreen. It’s large, vibrant, and easy to navigate, making it ideal for following along with iFit workouts. Users can explore:

• Thousands of iFit classes including walking, jogging, and HIIT
• Scenic virtual routes around the globe
• Real-time coaching with automatic incline/speed adjustments
• Daily suggested workouts based on progress and goals

Bluetooth audio capabilities and built-in speakers add flexibility for users who want to listen to their own playlists or follow workouts without headphones.

Durability and Build Quality

The S45i is constructed with a durable steel frame and commercial-grade motor, ensuring long-term reliability for most household runners. It has a 136 kg (300 lb) weight capacity and is designed to absorb the impact of repetitive use, making it a good match for households with multiple users.

The FlexSelect cushioning system not only enhances comfort but also helps extend the treadmill’s lifespan by reducing deck stress.

Storage and Portability

Despite its large footprint when in use, the Nordic S45i is relatively easy to store thanks to its SpaceSaver design. The EasyLift Assist lets users fold the deck up with minimal effort, making it a solid choice for those with limited space.

Built-in transport wheels allow you to move the unit within the room when needed, although moving it between rooms or floors will require assistance due to its weight and size.

Final Thoughts on the Nordic S45i

The NordicTrack S45i stands out as a feature-rich treadmill designed for users who want a more engaging and challenging cardio experience at home. The 10” HD screen, solid motor, and incline capabilities make it an appealing option for runners and fitness enthusiasts alike.

While it does rely on iFit for its full suite of features and doesn’t offer decline training, it more than compensates with quality-of-life features, powerful performance, and a premium workout interface. If you’re looking for a treadmill that delivers interactive training, strong performance, and a comfortable running surface, the S45i is a worthy investment.