NordicTrack S251 Treadmill Review

The NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is engineered to offer a perfect mix of advanced features, reliable performance, and convenience for home fitness enthusiasts. With its powerful motor, wide range of workout options, and intuitive design, the S251 is built to accommodate walkers, joggers, and runners alike. In this detailed review, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, pros and cons, and overall value of the NordicTrack S251 to help you determine if it’s the right treadmill for your fitness needs.

Key Features of the NordicTrack S251 Treadmill

The NordicTrack S251 Treadmill comes with a variety of features that elevate the workout experience:

• Dimensions: 74.5 x 35.5 x 63 inches (assembled)
• Weight: 240 lbs
• Running Surface: 60 inches x 22 inches
• Incline Range: 0% to 12% incline
• Speed Range: 0-12 mph
• Motor: 3.0 CHP DurX Commercial Motor
• Display: 7-inch Smart HD Touchscreen
• Folding Design: SpaceSaver Design with EasyLift Assist
• Audio: Intermix Acoustics 2.0 Sound System
• Cushioning: FlexSelect Cushioning
• Connectivity: iFit compatibility (subscription required)
• Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

With a strong motor, solid incline settings, and a large running surface, the S251 provides a versatile and comfortable workout experience for a wide range of fitness levels.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of the NordicTrack S251 Treadmill:

Pros:

• 3.0 CHP motor delivers smooth and quiet performance
• 12% incline range helps enhance workout intensity
• 0-12 mph speed range accommodates various workout intensities
• 7-inch Smart HD touchscreen for easy navigation
• iFit compatibility opens up a variety of workout programs and classes
• FlexSelect Cushioning reduces joint impact for greater comfort
• Easy to fold and store thanks to SpaceSaver design and EasyLift Assist
• Intermix Acoustics 2.0 sound system for quality audio
• 10-year frame warranty ensures long-lasting durability

Cons:

• Requires iFit subscription for access to most features
• 3.0 CHP motor may not be powerful enough for very high-intensity users
• 7-inch touchscreen may not be as large as some higher-end models
• Larger size might be difficult to accommodate in smaller spaces
• Labor warranty limited to 1 year, shorter compared to some competitors

Ideal for Home Fitness Enthusiasts

The NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is designed for a wide range of fitness users. Whether you are a beginner looking for a reliable treadmill for walking or a more advanced runner seeking a high-speed, incline-enhanced workout, the S251 can meet your needs. The 3.0 CHP motor is strong enough for moderate-to-high-intensity workouts, and the 0-12 mph speed range ensures that users can tailor their workout to their fitness level.

The 12% incline range is ideal for users looking to add variety and intensity to their training regimen. This feature helps target different muscle groups and offers an extra challenge for those seeking to boost calorie burn. The treadmill’s FlexSelect Cushioning provides comfort while minimizing impact, which is ideal for those concerned about joint health during workouts.

While the treadmill is designed for home use, the larger size may not be suitable for people with limited space. However, the folding feature allows for easier storage after use, making it convenient for homes with smaller workout areas.

Performance and Workout Efficiency

The NordicTrack S251 offers solid performance for various types of workouts. The 3.0 CHP motor provides smooth and reliable operation, making it ideal for walking, jogging, and running. The motor is powerful enough for typical home workouts but may struggle with very high-intensity running or frequent use by multiple users.

The 12% incline provides a great challenge for users looking to increase workout intensity or target different muscle groups, such as the glutes and hamstrings. This incline level is a key feature for anyone wanting to increase cardiovascular endurance or build strength in the lower body. The speed range of 0-12 mph ensures versatility, making it suitable for beginners to advanced users.

The FlexSelect Cushioning system helps reduce joint impact, which is beneficial for users with concerns about long-term joint health. This cushioning system can be adjusted to provide a firmer surface for a more natural feel or a softer surface to reduce impact.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

The NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is user-friendly, thanks to its 7-inch Smart HD touchscreen. The touchscreen interface makes it easy to navigate through settings, track your progress, and access iFit workout programs. The screen provides essential workout information like speed, incline, time, distance, and calories burned, making it easy to monitor your performance.

For maintenance, the treadmill requires basic care, such as cleaning the belt and occasionally lubricating it. The FlexSelect Cushioning system helps maintain a comfortable workout experience without needing much upkeep. The treadmill’s SpaceSaver design makes it easy to fold up for storage, and the EasyLift Assist feature allows for hassle-free folding and unfolding.

Durability and Build Quality

The NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is built with durability in mind. The 3.0 CHP motor and sturdy frame are designed to last for years, even with frequent use. The treadmill’s frame is backed by a 10-year warranty, ensuring that you’re investing in a long-term piece of equipment. The build quality is solid, making the S251 a reliable option for home use.

The FlexSelect Cushioning system also contributes to the overall durability, as it absorbs some of the impact during your workouts. This reduces wear on both the motor and the treadmill’s components, extending its lifespan.

Portability and Ease of Transport

Weighing in at 240 lbs, the NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is relatively heavy compared to some other models, but it’s designed with portability in mind. The folding design, along with the EasyLift Assist feature, makes it easier to move and store the treadmill when not in use. While its size may require more space than entry-level models, the ability to fold and store it in a more compact form helps conserve space in your home.

Despite its heavier build, the treadmill’s transport wheels make it manageable for most users to move the unit when necessary.

Final Thoughts on the NordicTrack S251 Treadmill

The NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is an excellent option for those seeking a solid, feature-packed treadmill for home use. With a 3.0 CHP motor, 12% incline, FlexSelect Cushioning, and a 7-inch Smart HD touchscreen, it provides everything you need for an effective and enjoyable workout. The addition of iFit compatibility further enhances the treadmill’s appeal by offering access to virtual workouts and on-demand classes.

While it may not be as powerful as some higher-end models, the S251 is more than capable of meeting the needs of most users. Its folding design and EasyLift Assist make it convenient for home use, and the long-lasting build quality ensures that it will be a reliable workout companion for years to come.

If you’re looking for a mid-range treadmill that offers excellent features at a reasonable price, the NordicTrack S251 Treadmill is a great choice.