NordicTrack CX650 Elliptical Trainer Review

We have not yet had the opportunity to properly review the , but hope to be able to very soon.

The NordicTrack CX650 elliptical trainer is not only a great looking machine, it’s also a great machine to train with. It has everything we’ve come to expect from Nordic.

The big bonus with this model has to be the iFitTM Workout Card Technology. These are specifically designed programmes on a card, similar to a digital camera card, to help you achieve whatever your fitness goal may be. Not only do they control the machine to take you through a series of levels of difficulty, it will also talk to you! You recieve step-by-step instructions via the built-in speakers on the console.

The CX650 comes with 5 Personal Trainer workouts that work on aerobic fitness, weight loss, or performance goals. There are also two heart rate controlled programmes that help you stay in the fat-burning zone by matching the machine’s resistance to your pulse, if it slows down it increases the resistance, if it gets too high it will lower it – so it does have a heart :0)

You can measure your pulse using the grips next to the console. More expensive models also have sensors in the training handles but with this model you have to take your hands off to hold the grips to track your pulse.

You can buy extra iFit workout cards that just slot into the front of the console, they retail for around £25, you can see examples of elliptical trainer programmes here at SweatBand.com who sell them for £17.99.

The CX650 has a good stride length of 18 inches with a very smooth action and large non-slip pedals, although non-adjustable. If you get a bit warm during your workout it has a fan in the console, although it has to be said it’s not that effective.

NordicTrack CX650 console Console/ display unit

 

From our experience of working with many clients knowing this information can help when you’re getting tired. To see how many calories you’ve burnt and how far you’ve gone can inspire you to keep going to the end of your programme.

The one touch buttons to change resistance is a nice touch as this saves you having to scroll through the settings whilst trying to do a manual workout or override an automatic programme – you have 10 resistance levels to choose from

 

Our score : 8.5 ( out of 10 ) An excellent trainer with some great features.

Best Price

The NordicTrack CX650 is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Review Summary - In Brief

The Practical Info This is a foldable trainer, (click here to see image on Sweatband's website) so if space is a little tight you can reduce its length and slide it away out of sight. The folding mechanism is well-designed so it was easy to operate. Moving the machine around is pretty straight forward thanks to the built-in transport wheels fitted at the front, it can be moved either folded or fully extended. Ease of portability can be a major factor in choosing a trainer because if you're not feeling too motivated to train, the thought of struggling to get your trainer into place may be enough to put you off! If it's easy you've got no excuse :0)

NordicTrack CX650 Specifications

  • Dimensions:
  • Folded:
  • Machine weight:
  • Max. user weight:

- Console / Display Unit

NordicTrack CX650 Elliptical Trainer Console The console (see left) has a backlit colour LCD display and was clear and easy to read. The slot for the iFit Workout cards is on the front - circled left. You can see your speed, time per session, distance travelled, calories burnt, a carb gram counter and your pulse rate.

- User Reviews

The Pros

  • iFit Workout Cards
  • variation of programmes
  • good stride length, stylish
  • the folding mechanism

The Cons

  • Heart rate sensors in the workout handles would have finished this model to perfection
Reviewer Ratings

Best Price

The NordicTrack CX650 is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Also see our Elliptical Cross Trainer Comparison Table

Whilst every effort is made to give you accurate information we cannot guarantee the technical specification. Models change on a regular basis and may differ slightly from the above review. We recommend you contact the retailer if you have a question regarding technical data. Please read our Legal Disclaimer

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