NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill Review

The NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill is a powerful, versatile, and affordable fitness machine designed to meet the needs of home gym enthusiasts. With a combination of advanced features, ease of use, and durable construction, it’s an excellent option for those who want to elevate their fitness routines without breaking the bank. In this review, we’ll cover the key features, performance, and overall value of the NordicTrack EXP 71 to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your home workouts.

Key Features of the NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill

The NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill comes equipped with a variety of features designed to enhance your workout experience:

• Dimensions: 73 x 35 x 59 inches (assembled)
• Weight: 249 lbs
• Running Surface: 60 inches x 20 inches
• Incline Range: 0% to 10%
• Speed Range: 0-10 mph
• Motor: 2.6 CHP DurX Commercial Motor
• Display: 7-inch Smart HD Touchscreen
• Folding Design: SpaceSaver Design with EasyLift Assist
• Cushioning: FlexSelect Cushioning for joint protection
• Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
• Connectivity: Bluetooth audio, iFit compatible (subscription required)

With these features, the EXP 71 offers a solid combination of performance and user-friendly options, making it a great choice for a wide range of fitness levels.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of the NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill:

Pros:

• Reliable 2.6 CHP motor for steady and consistent performance
• Spacious 20-inch wide running surface for a comfortable workout
• 7-inch Smart HD touchscreen for easy control and workout tracking
• 0-10 mph speed range and 0-10% incline for varied intensity
• iFit compatibility for access to diverse interactive workouts
• FlexSelect Cushioning system to protect joints during exercise
• SpaceSaver folding design with EasyLift Assist for compact storage
• Bluetooth audio for wireless music streaming and device pairing
• 10-year frame warranty ensuring long-lasting durability

Cons:

• Smaller 7-inch screen compared to some other models with larger displays
• Requires iFit subscription for full access to interactive workout content
• 2.6 CHP motor may not be powerful enough for long-distance running or intense athletes
• 1-year labor warranty may be shorter than other premium treadmill models
• Price may be higher for those seeking more budget-friendly options
• Limited incline range (0-10%) compared to some models with steeper inclines

Ideal for Home Use and Casual Fitness Enthusiasts

The NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill is a perfect fit for homeowners who want an effective treadmill for daily walks, light jogging, and casual running. It is ideal for individuals who are focused on moderate workouts or those who are just starting their fitness journey. With a speed range of up to 10 mph and an incline of 0-10%, the treadmill offers enough variability for most users to stay engaged and challenge themselves.

For those who need more powerful motors or higher incline ranges, this model may not be suitable. However, for the vast majority of casual fitness enthusiasts, the EXP 71 provides everything needed for a balanced workout experience.

Performance and Workout Efficiency

The NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill comes with a 2.6 CHP DurX Commercial Motor, which provides steady performance for a variety of workouts. Whether you’re walking at a moderate pace or jogging, this motor handles both with ease. While it may not be ideal for intense, long-distance running, it is more than sufficient for users looking for a reliable machine for everyday use.

The treadmill’s 20-inch wide running surface offers plenty of room for comfortable strides, whether you’re walking, jogging, or running. The FlexSelect Cushioning system is also a standout feature, as it allows users to adjust the cushioning to provide either a softer, joint-friendly surface or a firmer feel for a more road-like experience.

The iFit compatibility expands the EXP 71’s functionality by offering access to a variety of interactive workouts, including trainer-led classes and virtual outdoor runs. The treadmill automatically adjusts the speed and incline based on the workout you’re following, providing a more immersive and tailored fitness experience.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

The 7-inch Smart HD touchscreen is user-friendly and makes controlling the treadmill simple. It provides easy access to workout stats, as well as iFit programs, allowing you to track your progress and engage with various interactive training options. The touchscreen can be used to adjust the treadmill’s speed, incline, and other settings, making it easy to customize your workout.

The SpaceSaver design with EasyLift Assist allows for easy folding and storage when the treadmill is not in use, which is perfect for homes with limited space. Regular maintenance of the treadmill involves basic cleaning and ensuring that the belt remains properly tensioned, which is simple to do with the help of the manual provided by NordicTrack.

Durability and Build Quality

The NordicTrack EXP 71 is designed with durability in mind, featuring a robust frame and high-quality components. The 2.6 CHP motor is reliable for daily use, though it may not be the most powerful option for intense running or heavy use. The FlexSelect Cushioning ensures a comfortable running surface, reducing the risk of joint strain during workouts.

With a 10-year frame warranty, the EXP 71 is built to last, providing users with peace of mind that it will stand up to frequent use. The sturdy frame and durable motor ensure that the treadmill can handle long-term wear and tear, making it a solid investment for home fitness.

Portability and Ease of Transport

At 249 lbs, the NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill is relatively heavy, but its SpaceSaver design with EasyLift Assist makes it easier to fold and store when not in use. The treadmill can be stored vertically to save space, which is ideal for those with limited room in their home gym.

Despite its weight, the built-in transport wheels allow for easier relocation once the treadmill is folded. However, because of its size, it’s recommended to have some assistance when setting up or moving the machine.

Final Thoughts on the NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill

The NordicTrack EXP 71 Treadmill is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, versatile, and affordable machine for home workouts. It provides solid performance with its 2.6 CHP motor, a comfortable running surface, and access to iFit for a wide range of interactive workouts. While it may not have the most powerful motor or steep incline range compared to more advanced models, it is perfect for casual users who want an effective treadmill for walking, jogging, or light running.

With features like FlexSelect Cushioning, a space-saving design, and a solid warranty, the EXP 71 offers great value for those looking for a functional treadmill to enhance their fitness routine. If you’re searching for an affordable, feature-rich treadmill for home use, the NordicTrack EXP 71 is a solid choice.