NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
This treadmill is a solid pick for runners chasing marathon-level performance without breaking the bank.
Buy on AmazonThe NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill is designed for serious runners aiming to meet tough performance goals, like qualifying for competitive races with faster standards. It delivers with a 14 mph top speed and a 4.25 CHP motor, built to endure intense training sessions, whether for long runs or speed work.
Beyond raw power, the 2450 offers versatility with its cushioned deck, suitable for everything from recovery paces to tempo runs. It integrates seamlessly with iFIT, a training service that enhances workouts with guided sessions and interactive features. Check a full review of the NordicTrack 2450 and iFIT to see if it fits your running needs.
Who is this Treadmill Best For?
- Marathon Runners: The 2450 offers cushioned support for recovery runs and the strength to handle extended distances. It also includes training classes, virtual routes, and entertainment options to keep you engaged during long sessions.
- iFIT Enthusiasts: iFIT is a core component of the 2450 experience. While the treadmill functions without a subscription, its full potential shines with iFIT—without it, other brands might be a better fit.
- Netflix and Prime Video Fans: An iFIT membership unlocks streaming access to Netflix and Prime Video, letting you watch movies and shows on the touchscreen display during workouts.
- Active Families Seeking Comfort: The 2450’s robust motor supports daily use by multiple people, paired with a soft deck that delivers excellent cushioning for every stride.
Pros And Cons Of The NordicTrack 2450
Pros
- Soft RunFlex cushioning
- ActivePulse and SmartAdjust with iFIT classes
- Netflix and Prime Video
- 24” touchscreen display
- 4.25 CHP motor, 14 mph max speed, -3% to 12% incline
- 400-lb user weight capacity
- 22” x 60” running surface
- AI Coach with iFIT for personalized training
Cons
- Limited features without iFIT
- Storage options may be inadequate for very long runs
NordicTrack 2450 Specs
- Footprint: 77.3” x 37” x 63.4”
- Deck Size: 22” x 60”
- Motor Size: 4.25 CHP
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Product Weight: 332 lbs
- Speed Range: 0 to 14 mph
- Incline/Decline Range: -3% to 12%
- Cushioning: RunFlex - soft cushioning
- Warranty: lifetime motor, 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year
- Ceiling Height Requirement: user height + 2’ (8’ ceilings for a 6’ runner)
NordicTrack 2450 Build Quality
The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill reinforces the brand’s standing as a leader in home fitness equipment. The latest version features notable upgrades, particularly in the deck design. Key signs of enhanced build quality include a greater weight capacity and a more powerful motor. These improvements proved evident during testing, beyond just the specs.
Frame
NordicTrack maintains its standard frame design, adding subtle reinforcements to support the heavier deck. Constructed from steel, the frame feels exceptionally solid, boasting a 400-lb weight capacity that matches the reinforced structure beneath the deck. A 10-year warranty backs the frame’s durability.
The footrails are wide and textured for grip. Made of plastic rather than metal, they avoid the slipperiness some alternatives have, offering ample space for users to step off the belt comfortably.
The uprights are steel, as are the handles, though the handles transition into a textured plastic coating where they connect. While lacking the premium feel of velvety or metallic textures found on some competitors, this finish appears practical and easy to maintain.
Motor
The 2450’s 4.25 CHP motor is well-suited for extended runs and rigorous daily workouts. Though not a commercial-grade treadmill, it meets the demands of family-wide training. Testing showed this motor to be highly responsive, outperforming others in its class with no close rivals.
Horizon treadmills once led the pack with rapid incline and speed adjustments, with the Peloton Tread as a strong competitor. The NordicTrack 2450, however, outpaces them by nearly 20%, with noticeably quicker speed and incline transitions confirmed through testing. This responsiveness approaches the practical limit for safe adjustments, requiring users to stay attentive during workouts.
The 2450 delivers precise shifts to interval speeds and inclines exactly when needed. It also slows down or reduces incline swiftly, preventing the need to grip the handles during transitions. This makes high-intensity interval training (HIIT) notably smoother on the 2450.
Motor noise aligns with typical home treadmills. At 3.0 mph, the 2450 hums like a microwave; at top speed, it matches the volume of a dishwasher or washing machine, with a slightly higher pitch but comparable loudness.
Its top speed surpasses most home treadmills. Reaching 14.0 mph—compared to the standard 12 mph—the 2450 caters to runners seeking high velocity. For context, 12 mph equates to a 5-minute mile, while 14 mph is a 4:17 mile.
Surface
The running surface measures 22” x 60”, reverting to a traditional size seen in earlier treadmill models. Many recent treadmills, including some from NordicTrack, had narrowed to 20 inches wide. While the added width may complicate storage, it offers extra space that some runners will find beneficial during training. The surface accommodates all running speeds effectively.
The step-up height is 10 inches, not the lowest available, but the treadmill’s handles and footrails provide ample support for stepping on and off. Consider this height when evaluating the 2450, particularly if you face challenges with elevated steps.
The 2450 features soft cushioning, noticeably gentler than running on pavement. Data indicates it offers more cushioning than even highly cushioned running shoes, making it well-suited for increasing mileage and supporting recovery runs. It provides a low-impact option for runners seeking relief from harder surfaces.
Storage
The NordicTrack 2450’s heavier deck makes folding more challenging, reflecting its enhanced durability. However, this added weight may prevent some users from folding it solo, particularly those unable to lift 50 lbs comfortably.
Unfolding is straightforward thanks to a kick-release folding mechanism. Pressing the release on the hydraulic arm while slightly lifting the deck—bearing minimal weight—allows it to lower gently to the ground. This system also aids when lifting, ensuring the deck descends safely if released, avoiding sudden drops.
To relocate the NordicTrack 2450, tilt it onto its transport wheels, grip the rear of the deck firmly, and pull it along. Short-distance moves are manageable, though navigating thick carpet or stairs can be cumbersome.
When unfolded, the treadmill dimensions are 77.3” x 37” x 63.4”. For safe operation, allow additional space on the sides and behind it. When folded, the dimensions shift to 46.5” x 37” x 68.5”.
With a 10” step-up height and a maximum 12% incline, the 2450 requires a ceiling height roughly two feet above the runner’s height to support all training features, accounting for vertical motion during use.
Incline/Decline
The NordicTrack 2450 offers an incline range from -3% to 12%. With iFIT programming, the treadmill automatically adjusts its incline to mirror the grade of onscreen routes, simulating both uphill and downhill terrain. This feature benefits runners and walkers training for outdoor events with elevation changes.
Testing revealed minor incline variations, likely due to the cushioning system. While it’s often suggested to set treadmills at a 1% incline to mimic outdoor running, measurements show most treadmills, including the 2450, already sit at roughly 1% when set to 0%, making manual adjustment unnecessary.
The incline motor generates slight noise during operation, comparable to a dishwasher or washing machine in volume. Adjustments occur quickly, minimizing the duration of this sound, which remains unobtrusive during use.
The incline and decline features of the NordicTrack 2450 stand out, particularly when integrated with iFIT. The automatic adjustments provided by iFIT enhance the realism of workouts, simulating real-world terrain effectively, which is especially useful for those who might overlook manually setting incline or decline in custom routines.
Features
The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill’s training platform is central to its functionality. While some features operate independently of an iFIT account, many are tied to it. To fully utilize the treadmill’s capabilities, an iFIT membership is highly recommended, unlocking a sophisticated, tech-driven experience for subscribers.
Center Console
NordicTrack has eliminated physical buttons for specific speed and incline settings on the 2450’s console, opting for a streamlined touchscreen interface. Off-screen buttons remain for starting and stopping the treadmill, alongside controls to adjust speed, incline, volume, and fan speed incrementally.
The physical buttons on the NordicTrack 2450 are functional but lack tactile feedback, potentially posing accessibility challenges for some users.
The onscreen speed and incline buttons omit certain levels, jumping from 9 mph to 14 mph and from 0 to -3% for decline. Given that iFIT’s interface scrolls to accommodate buttons, these gaps seem unnecessary, as space isn’t a constraint.
Future iFIT updates could address this by including all speed and incline levels or allowing customization of visible buttons. The inability to fine-tune speed to tenths of a mile with quick successive presses also feels limiting.
The simplified console underscores NordicTrack and iFIT’s focus on hands-free training, prioritizing minimal interaction during workouts. This design, paired with iFIT features, aims to mirror the natural flow of outdoor walking and running.
Screen
The NordicTrack 2450’s screen measures 24 inches, offering clear visibility both on and off the treadmill. It rotates, enabling access to iFIT’s non-treadmill workouts—such as yoga, strength, and meditation—though it doesn’t pivot fully to face behind the treadmill, it accommodates viewing from either side effectively.
The touchscreen responds well, with onscreen buttons functioning smoothly during use. Compared to older NordicTrack models, this higher-quality display reduces lag significantly, allowing instant loading of iFIT classes and libraries without delays.
Console stability is impressive, with minimal shaking during runs. Testing showed it outperforms most home treadmills in this regard, ensuring an uninterrupted viewing experience. While shaking can sometimes be more noticeable to bystanders than runners—due to synchronized motion between the user and screen—this issue is negligible on the 2450.
Speakers
The NordicTrack 2450 features two 2” front-facing speakers positioned below the screen. They deliver adequate volume, ensuring audio remains audible over running noise. The treadmill allows separate control of iFIT class and entertainment audio, so if sound seems low, adjusting individual levels resolves the issue.
Bluetooth
Users can pair headphones with the 2450 effortlessly through the menu, enhancing the audio experience. While Bluetooth doesn’t support playing music through the speakers, iFIT provides built-in music options on-screen.
Bluetooth also enables quick pairing with a heart rate monitor, ideal for the iFIT ActivePulse feature. The treadmill lacks built-in pulse grips, relying instead on wearable monitors, which offer greater accuracy.
Audio Options
iFIT employs AI to translate classes into various languages, accessible by adjusting language settings. The accuracy of these translations isn’t independently verified but expands accessibility. All tested iFIT classes include closed captions, which can be enabled, and entertainment services offer subtitles as well.
Fan
The 2450 features a 3-speed fan with an auto mode that adjusts speed based on effort—intensifying as you run faster and easing when you slow down. The fan provides sufficient cooling during workouts, though the vent angle remains fixed, limiting directional control.
Storage
The NordicTrack 2450 offers limited storage space. It includes two cup holders, each capable of holding a cycling water bottle (bidon). Additional items, such as two gels and a protein bar in one holder and a phone in the other, fit but feel cramped. Despite the tight space, items remain secure during runs.
The NordicTrack 2450 lacks a dedicated phone holder. While iFIT’s entertainment streaming apps reduce the need for a tablet rack, a designated spot for phone storage would enhance convenience.
Safety
The NordicTrack 2450 includes a safety key that clips on during training. Using it is advisable, particularly when pushing toward the 14 mph top speed, which presents a significant challenge.
For ActivePulse users, setting a maximum speed in the user settings is recommended. This safety feature caps acceleration, preventing the treadmill from exceeding your specified limit. It’s useful for maintaining control, especially with rapid incline changes, as sustaining high speeds on hills can be tougher than on flat terrain.
Performance
The NordicTrack 2450 supports extended runs with ample power and a mix of performance and entertainment features to maintain engagement throughout. Its soft cushioning eases the effort, enabling distances and paces that might be challenging outdoors, making it an effective tool for marathon preparation, such as for a race like Boston.
The 14 mph top speed stands out as impressive, though manually controlling it can feel impractical due to less accessible onscreen buttons during high-effort running, like a sprint. The console height may also interfere with knee drive at top speeds. Stepping further back on the deck can provide additional space for comfort.
Walks and easy runs on the NordicTrack 2450 are highly enjoyable, thanks to smooth, rapid incline adjustments that enhance variety. The screen remains user-friendly at slow to moderate speeds.
Overall, the 2450 offers impressive versatility. Paired with an iFIT membership, it delivers an exceptional experience.
Content Options
The NordicTrack 2450 performs adequately with a free iFIT account, but its full potential emerges with a paid membership. It’s highly recommended for current iFIT subscribers or those certain they’ll opt in.
You can sample iFIT’s “Train” membership on your phone at a lower cost before committing to the Pro membership with the treadmill purchase. This approach allows you to explore the platform without an immediate investment in the equipment.
An iFIT subscription offers compelling benefits, notably its trainer-led treadmill classes. With thousands available, these sessions feature trainers guiding you through global locations, with the 2450’s speed and incline adjusting automatically to match the workout.
The NordicTrack 2450 offers two iFIT customization features to personalize workouts. SmartAdjust tracks manual speed overrides—whether to increase or decrease difficulty—and adapts both current and future sessions based on your preferences. ActivePulse, paired with a heart rate monitor, modifies treadmill speed to maintain the workout’s designated heart rate zone.
With iFIT on the NordicTrack 2450, you can take individual classes or participate in challenges and series to sustain your training. For a structured approach, the AI Coach feature texts you to understand your preferences and curates iFIT workouts on your home screen aligned with your goals.
The AI Coach also recommends complementary non-treadmill workouts, such as strength training and yoga, which you can follow on the 2450 regardless of using the coach. The rotating screen allows clear viewing while exercising beside the treadmill.
For tailored sessions, you can design custom workouts by setting distance, time, or calorie goals with specific speed and incline levels, including interval options. An upcoming iFIT update is expected to reintroduce Google Maps workouts, enabling virtual routes worldwide.
A manual mode is available for unstructured training, where entertainment apps can enhance the experience.
For walkers and runners who enjoy entertainment during workouts, the NordicTrack 2450 supports three apps: Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify. Access requires personal accounts for each service, and you can use them alongside iFIT classes.
Without an iFIT subscription—or if you cancel—you can still use a limited selection of featured iFIT classes, preset workouts with a manual training display, and the manual mode. However, without even a free account, metrics become unavailable, and functionality may be inconsistent.
An iFIT subscription is strongly advised for 2450 users. A single iFIT Pro membership accommodates up to five users and extends to other compatible equipment, making it ideal for those expanding a home gym with additional cardio machines.
The Verdict
The NordicTrack 2450 stands as the most powerful model in the brand’s top treadmill series. New iFIT enhancements—including entertainment apps, an AI coach, and a workout builder—offer walkers and runners unprecedented training variety. Conquer challenging runs with a -3% to 12% incline range and speeds up to 14 mph, or opt for a cushioned recovery walk.
This folding treadmill boasts a sturdy build, featuring a spacious running deck that accommodates all strides and a robust motor delivering the fastest incline and speed transitions among tested models.
For current or prospective iFIT subscribers seeking a comprehensive guided fitness platform, the 2450 could be an ideal match.