Peloton vs NordicTrack Treadmill – Which brand is better?


Running is one of the best ways to keep in shape, maintain or shed your weight and strengthen your bones and muscles. This is what makes the treadmill one of the most used training equipment across the globe. Which brand, between Peloton and NordicTrack treadmills are the best?

If you have been to a couple of gyms or fitness camps like myself, you must have come across both the Peloton and NordicTrack treadmill because they are two of the most known fitness brands in the world. Their equipment is made of quality material and they always give outstanding performance.

Although the NordicTrack equipment tends to be a little more affordable compared to Peloton, the difference in price is not that significant. If you are curious to find out exactly what makes each brand stand out, keep reading.


What are the differences between Peloton and NordicTrack Treadmills?

Peloton
NordicTrack
Weight Capacity
300 lbs
300 lbs
Available Programs
On Peloton Monthly Subscription
50 built in plus iFit Coach
Running Surface
20†by 67†59 ind. Slat belt
22†by 65“ 2-ply tread belt
Incline Range
0% to 15%
6% to 40%
Maximum Speed
12.5 mph
12 mph
Heart Monitoring
Needs Bluetooth chest strap
Bluetooth chest strap included
Fans
No
Yes

 

Peloton vs NordicTrack Treadmill – How they compare

Running Surface

Pelotons running deck is longer than NordicTrack’s but the comfort of the two varies greatly. While Peloton incorporates the slat belt mechanism that matches manual treadmills, the NordicTrack brand invest more into the plush 2-ply tread belt.

The choice between the two boils down to preference because some people appreciate the softer impact on knees and joints on the NordicTrack while others appreciate the hardiness of the Peloton track because it is more realistic.

With Peloton treadmills, they run on ball bearing rail systems that can be disengaged to give the runner a manual experience while the reflex cushioning provided by NordicTrack is ideal for sensitive knees, joints and muscles.

NordicTrack treadmills offer a greater deal of shock absorption on their running track compared to the harder and rougher Peloton alternative.

Build and Performance

Both these treadmills have been built of stainless steel with little areas made of plastic such as the bottle holder. The high definition monitors that are fixed into the design rest on this sturdy steel frame and from this 32†screen you can see your progress and vitals report.

Built in speakers for both treadmills are front facing which gives you better reception in terms of listening to whatever choice media or training program you choose to connect to through the Bluetooth connection available.

This sturdy build allows for the NordicTrack to incline up to a 40% elevation with a stable and intense running pace. You can adjust the speed and incline range by use of some select keys placed on the handles of the NordicTrack.

For Peloton, however, you can only incline as far up as 15% and the mode of adjustment is a knob which not only inconveniences the runner mid training but is also highly inaccurate and nerve wracking to control. Another feature that Peloton lacks is the in-built fan also adjustable with some integers.

Both treadmills weigh a hefty 400 lbs and assembling them or moving them around is a two-man job. Essentially, to save yourself the unnecessary trouble, pay to have professionals do the complete set up for your home gym.

NordicTrack treadmills have more benefits in features built in compared to Peloton. You get a fan, higher incline range and automated adjustment systems which make NordicTrack a more preferable option.

Program Variety

The 32†touch screens help to see and select from a number of varieties available for both Peloton and NordicTrack treadmill users. On Peloton you have access to live classes or the option to select form live and on-demand classes. You can get any class from cardio, walking, running, strength and boot camp training series.

Limited to about 14 live classes with a guided trainer daily which are only accessible with an active monthly renewable subscription, Peloton’s program options seem fewer.

NordicTrack treadmills allow you the option of 50 built-in programs that you can access with or without an active subscription. Their live streaming platform is the iFit Coach which provides you with thousands of other trainer guided workout programs.

NordicTrack programs are unique as they give you the opportunity to cross train with other exercises included in their programs such as yoga, Pilates, running, incline programs and more.

NordicTrack treadmill has more variety and options in workout programs with lesser restrictions compared to Peloton which is heavily limited in scope and also by monthly subscription.


Peloton vs NordicTrack treadmill – A Comparison Overview

Peloton Treadmill – Overview

Also referred to as the Tread, this design by Peloton is a classic combination of elegance and power. It is made of stainless steel and features aluminum slats covered with rubber which provides the cushioning needed for shock absorbing properties.

With a 32†touchscreen, the peloton will bring the live classes and on-demand sessions to your home gym opening up the virtual world of cycling classes. The trainers are said to be the best in the world and they will motivate you to your desired fitness goals.

The deck is long giving you plenty of running space and incline options up to 15% off the ground. Bluetooth connectivity is provided to help you connect your headphones to the device for a more zoned out experience in training.

The screen will display your training and health merits but you will need to buy a Bluetooth enabled heart rate strap monitor to keep a track of your vitals.

Pros

  • World-class engaging Peloton content
  • Bluetooth enabled equipment
  • Sleek, clear and large console for display
  • 67†long running deck
  • Adjustable incline and speed settings

Cons

  • Manual control
  • Slat rubber belt not easy on joints
  • No decline angles available

NordicTrack Treadmill – Overview

[amazon box=”B07T1F9TJ8″ template=”horizontal” ]

Made of stainless steel for a hardy and durable designed equipment. Fitted with a large 32†console for information display. Heart rate monitoring is provided for with the Bluetooth compatible heart rate strap monitor.

This treadmill features a reflex cushioning 2-ply belt system that provides great shock absorbing benefits making it easy for aching knees or joints to manage a good workout with minimal impact. NordicTrack also in-built a fan to keep the runner cool all through training and we can’t tell you how much you will appreciate this feature.

The programs available as well as the scenic virtual routes that have been built-in to the NordicTrack treadmill will have you working our in exciting new places with their unique challenges daily. You will be pleased to know that thousands of iFit Coach programs are available to the user even without a renewed subscription.

Pros

  • Automatic speed and incline adjustments
  • iFit Coach programs available with annual subscription
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Greater incline range
  • Increased variety of training options
  • Cross training programs available
  • Heart rate monitor included

Cons

  • Expensive equipment

View price on Amazon

 


Verdict: So, which treadmill brand between Peloton and NordicTrack is better?

Having assessed their most distinct features, the NordicTrack brand seem to be doing something extra compared to Peloton and you know they value of the bang of the buck. With the awesome annual subscription all-inclusive package that they provide combined with their heavily accessorized treadmills, it’s an easy pick to choose NordicTrack over Peloton treadmills as the best in the market.