NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Reviewed and Rated

NordicTrack released several versions of 2950 treadmill over the years, but they all have the same size and weight. In fact, 2950 is very similar to NordicTrack 2450, its predecessor, with just slight differences that only a trained eye can spot. Both of these models were designed for commercial use, which means that they are huge and very sturdy. Once the unit is fully assembled, it will take up approximately 79″L x 32.6″W of space in your room. You will have to think carefully about where you're going to place it, as NordicTrack recommends two feet of extra space on the sides, and three feet of extra space in the back for optimal results. But don't let its sheer size scare you - this treadmill is equipped with the EasyLift technology. This means that you can fold up the deck, and a hydraulic system will hold it firmly in spot, so don't worry about it falling down and breaking. This allows you to clean under the machine and leave up some extra room when you're not using it. The NordicTrack 2950 is also very, very heavy. It weighs over 300 pounds! Assembly will be slightly difficult because of its mass, but once the unit is set up, you can then conveniently roll it around on the transportation wheels positioned at the front.

The frame holding the machine together is made out of durable tube steel. Every steel part is coated with a powder finish. This coating gives it a sleek look, plus it protects the paint from chipping and damage, and the frame from rusting. Not all of the 2950 parts are steel though, as some of them are plastic, like the console, handlebars, and some of the covers protecting other parts. The plastic is ABS though, very durable and resistant to wear and tear damage. The track of the treadmill is very hardy, and it's able to support users up to 300 pounds, even when they run full-speed. The deck is enveloped by a 2-ply belt that creates a 60″L x 22″W running surface, so users up to 6'5" tall should be able to use the treadmill comfortably. Even if you are taller, you should have no issues with the treadmill, but once you begin running at high speeds you might not be able to achieve a full stride. The deck is supported by non-flex balanced rollers. They have a 2.5" diameter which makes the ride smooth and fluid. The rollers have commercial-grade steel ball bearings that make them durable. The deck has Reflex cushioning. This means that you can adjust how the track feels when you run. You can either choose a setting that makes the front of the track softer, absorbing shock, or you can choose a firmer platform that gives a better response. All of that is done by turning a dial positioned on the left side of the deck.

One very important feature that 2950 has is the incline and decline settings. They are motorized, and the incline ranges from 0 to 15 degrees, while the decline goes from 0 to -3%. They have three pre-set positions, but you can manually adjust the incline and decline by small increments to make the angle easier to survive. The system is automatic, with a motor that powers a metallic lift sitting at the front. By selecting the incline setting, the motor lifts the front of the deck, and if you choose the decline position, the back of the deck is lifted to the desired angle. The angle can be changed only through the console, but some of the programs that the console has automatically change the angle throughout the exercise. The console has two sets of controls that you can use to change the angle. One set is used to adjust the angle by the smallest of increments, while the quick setting buttons place the deck at the three preset positions. Remember that if you select the decline angle, you won't be able to use the highest speed setting as that can create a hazardous exercise. The deck sits about 11-inches from the ground. The incline will raise the deck further above, so remember to place the treadmill with a ceiling high enough to accommodate your height plus at least an extra 20".

Every treadmill from NordicTrack comes with a powerful motor, but their power is slightly different from one treadmill to the other. The predecessor, as an example, has a motor that is 4.0 CHP, while the motor on 2950 has 4.25 CHP, making it mightier. The motor is CHP DurX, a commercial-grade engine that can survive everything you put it through. The motor is created to give every user maximum performance, even if that user weighs 300 pounds and is using the highest speed setting. The motor has an internal cooling system that prevents it from dying mid-exercise, and it has a little flywheel that makes the ride smooth and quiet. The flywheel neutralizes vibrations as well. The deck can go from 0.5 MPH to 12 MPH. Just like the incline and decline settings, the speed can be adjusted in increments of 0.1 MPH, or it can be adjusted in larger skips of 0.5 MPH. Although the motor is quiet, if you run at full speed, expect to make a good level of noise. As the motor is powerful, it requires a source to give it the energy, and in this case, that source is your standard outlet. The console has a spot for the cord that comes with the unit, but the cord has no adapter. So just make sure to place the treadmill near an outlet and you're all set!

The console of the previous model was 14" wide, but the console of this model is an amazing 22" wide, with full HD colors and smart touchscreen technology. The older version only had a USB port, but this one also has an HDMI port. This means that you can connect the console to a larger display where you can see your results and goals in glorious HD. The console is angle-adjustable. The display will show you every important metric, like the speed, time, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and much more. You can set the speed and distance units to either imperial or metric. You can also choose to break your distance into 400m increments, as long as one race lap, so once you're done running you'll be able to see just how much laps you've run. You can connect an HR strap to the console via Bluetooth, but the treadmill does not come with one. If you find chest strap heart rate monitors uncomfortable, you can just grab the bar at the front and rely on the integrated pulse readings.

The console can be connected to a Wi-Fi hotspot, and then you can connect to the iFit app. This app has over 16000 different programs and an integrated live coach. The app also allows you to create your own map, with unique goals and trails based on real-life locations. But the app has a catch - once you buy the treadmill, you have a free one-year subscription to iFit, but when the year expires you will have to pay a monthly fee to keep using it. You don't have to do this though, as the console offers 40 preset programs that are sure to keep you entertained. The console has built-in speakers and three cooling fans that do a good job of keeping you safe from the heat. The speakers are compatible with most devices and MP3 players, so you can blast your favorite tunes for some extra motivation. The console has two trays on the sides for water bottles and other valuables, and one large tray at the front.

Although this treadmill is fairly large and heavy, the setup is surprisingly simple and quick. Most of the treadmill will arrive pre-assembled, so you will need the help of one more person to carry all of that weight. You will only have to attach the console and the bars. This job shouldn't take more than an hour to complete, and the manual is very easy to understand and follow, making the job all that more enjoyable. Every tool you need for the job will come with your order. Maintenance is super-easy too. Just make sure you keep the track free of any debris or dirt to keep the motor and rollers safe and make sure to periodically check for loose bolts and screws, and that's it!

2950 is a fairly expensive machine. That shouldn't surprise you though, as it is commercial-grade, with an excellent ten-year warranty. We believe that this treadmill is well worth the money! But the cost will increase slightly if you decide to subscribe to the iFit app, although it's only about 15 dollars per month.

The NordicTrack 2950 is an amazing, very sturdy treadmill. The sturdy steel frame can support users up to 300 pounds, while the motor is quiet and smooth even if you go full-speed. The incline and decline are automatic and easy to adjust. The deck has a sturdy belt with a cushioning system. The console has a large, colorful display with a myriad of amazing features and 40 preset programs. The iFit app gives you over 16000 exercises to enjoy, although it does require a monthly subscription after one year expires. The machine is fairly large and heavy, but it has transportation wheels and it can be easily folded up. 2950 is fairly pricey, although we believe that if you can afford this treadmill, you should definitely go for it as it will not disappoint!