Most treadmills are designed to help you log miles. The NordicTrack X24 is designed to help you climb.
I live in a small mountain town in Colorado and spend a lot of time on trails, but weather, long winters, muddy conditions, and everyday life don’t always cooperate. That’s what led us to the NordicTrack X24 Incline Trainer.
While we’ve been using it to prepare for mountain races and long days on the trail, what makes the X24 stand out is that you don’t need to be a trail runner to appreciate it. The combination of a 40% incline and -6% decline creates training opportunities that simply aren’t available on most treadmills.
Whether you’re training for a summer hike, preparing for a race with hills, or trying to build strength and endurance in a flat part of the country, the X24 offers something different.
This review covers where it shines, where it falls short, and who will get the most value from it.
For runners training for hills, hikers preparing for big adventures, or anyone looking to add a new level of challenge to their fitness routine, the X24 delivers a training experience unlike that of a traditional treadmill. And for those of us who don’t always have access to the terrain we’re training for, that difference can be incredibly valuable.
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Who Is It Good For?
- General Fitness: If you’re just looking for a walking treadmill, you could go with a lower model and save a lot of money. This machine is specialized, so if you don’t need the extreme 40% incline, a standard commercial deck like the NordicTrack 1750 will give you plenty of utility for less money.
- Heavier Users: The deck is very sturdy, and the machine will feel solid, with a weight limit of 400 lbs. The non-folding welded steel frame provides a stable base that handles high-impact steps without shifting.
- Endurance: The deck is very comfortable for longer runs and has plenty of ways to stay entertained. The SpringFlex cushioning absorbs impact well over multi-hour sessions, and the massive 24-inch screen supports streaming options to help pass the time.
- Intervals: The heavy-duty 4.25 CHP motor transitions smoothly between different speeds and drastic incline shifts without lagging or stuttering.
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill Overview
What truly sets the NordicTrack X24 apart is the ability to tackle both steep climbs and descents. That opens the door to workouts that go far beyond traditional treadmill running.
During testing, I found myself using it for everything from easy recovery walks and ultramarathon training runs to power-hiking workouts that left my legs feeling like I’d spent the day on the trails.
Besides the obvious incline difference, I was curious how the X24 would compare to the NordicTrack 1750. I’ve run on the 1750 for the last 4 years. Turns out, there were some major upgrades.
Nordictrack X24 vs 1750
On the 1750, the workouts were certainly challenging, but the treadmill’s incline limitations meant there was a cap to how closely it could replicate the terrain being shown on screen. The X24 removes most of that limitation.
As the trail pitched upward, the treadmill matched the terrain much more closely, making the workout feel significantly more physically demanding.
However, this treadmill is useful even if you’re not training for a mountain race. If you live somewhere flat, are preparing for a hiking trip, or simply want a low-impact way to increase workout intensity, the X24 offers options that most treadmills can’t match.
Walking at a steep incline can quickly elevate your heart rate without requiring you to run faster or increase impact.
The X24 also does a good job of breaking up the monotony that often comes with indoor training. Between the changing terrain offered through iFIT, the large 24” touchscreen, and the ability to switch between streaming apps, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained.
That doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for everyone.
It’s large, expensive, doesn’t fold up, and is designed for a pretty specific purpose. But for runners looking to prepare for hilly races, hikers building climbing fitness, or anyone wanting to add more variety to their indoor workouts, the X24 offers a training experience that stands apart from the average treadmill.
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill Specifications
- Brand: NordicTrack
- Price: $4,299.99 MSRP (often discounted during sales)
- Speed: 0-12 MPH
- Range: 40% incline to -6% decline
- Motor: 4.25 CHP (drive motor)
- Belt: 22” wide × 60” long deck size
- User Weight Capacity: 400 lbs (≈ 181 kg) maximum recommended user weight
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty on motor plus 1, 3, or 5-year parts & labor warranties on select products
- Console: Built-in 24” HD touchscreen console
- Streaming Apps: Available (Netflix, YouTube+, Amazon Prime Video, Spotify, Audible, and more through iFIT)
- Features: iFIT membership unlocks trainer-led workouts, automatic terrain matching, and personalized training features.
- Connectivity: You can pair compatible heart-rate monitors and Bluetooth headphones, plus sync completed workouts with Garmin Connect and Strava through iFIT.
Quick Take
Pros
- Massive 40% incline and -6% decline range.
- Stable, sturdy feel at any grade.
- iFIT terrain matching keeps workouts engaging.
- Great for runners, hikers, and walkers.
- Comfortable deck for long sessions.
- Expensive.
- Requires a lot of space.
- Best features require an iFIT membership.
- Occasional touchscreen lag.
- Heavy—445-lb in-box weight.
Stability and Feel
It’s large and heavy, and with that, I expect it to be very solid underfoot, and it is. Unlike many folding treadmills, there’s very little movement or flex, even at the 40% incline. Whether I was power hiking or running, the deck felt stable and secure.
The SpringFlex cushioning has a nice balance between comfort and responsiveness. It softens the impact of longer workouts and feels notably softer than the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 I ran on for years.
The 22-inch-by-60-inch running surface also provides plenty of room to move comfortably. The 24-inch console screen placement does make it look shorter, but I measured it, and sure enough, it is 60” x 22”.
John, my 6’2” husband, feels completely comfortable running on it and has plenty of room for his longer stride. He did note that during extended sessions, the taller upright handlebars can get a bit slick once his hands get sweaty. They still do the job of keeping his balance, but it’s definitely a detail worth noting if you are a heavy sweater.
At over 400 pounds, the X24 is a substantial machine. While that makes it difficult to move, it also contributes to the planted feel that sets it apart from lighter treadmills.
Speed and Incline Control
This is where the X24 earns its place as an incline trainer rather than just another treadmill.
40% is no joke. The handles are there for good reason, and while many trainers will tell you not to hold onto the treadmill when you’re running, this is the exception.
The 40% incline and -6% decline allow for workouts that most treadmills cannot replicate. Whether you’re training for a hilly race, preparing for a hiking trip, or looking for a challenging walking workout, the incline range opens up a lot of possibilities.
The -6% decline is equally useful. Downhill hiking and running place unique demands on the quads, and very few treadmills offer a tangible way to train those muscles indoors.
One of my favorite examples of this is the Grand Canyon workout series on iFIT. I’ve actually done these workouts before on the NordicTrack 1750, but the experience was completely different, and noticeably harder, on the X24.
Because the X24 has those extra capabilities, it was able to accurately match the actual steepness of the canyon trails, making the entire effort feel significantly more realistic and, in turn, exhausting.
The 4.25 CHP motor responds quickly during speed and grade changes, helping workouts feel smooth. My speed intervals flow naturally, easily matching my stride as the belt picks up the pace.
Noise Level
For a machine this size, the X24 is quiet. You can hear the incline motor working during major grade changes, but it’s not distracting. In fact, the AutoBreeze fan is often louder than the treadmill itself at higher settings.
That said, this is still a large machine designed for serious training. If you’re power hiking at a steep grade or running hard, expect some noise, particularly on upper floors.
Console and Navigation
The 24-inch touchscreen is one of the highlights of the X24. The display is bright, responsive, and large enough to make long indoor workouts feel more engaging. Plus, it has a soundbar attached to the bottom. The sound quality is noticeably better than any other treadmill I have had.
Additionally, I appreciate that I can adjust the trainer, music, and overall app sounds.
Navigation is generally straightforward, and finding workouts through iFIT is easy once you’re familiar with the interface. I especially like the “create your own” option, which lets me map out our local trails so we can simulate running them even when we’re stuck indoors.
While the system doesn’t have every backcountry trail available, it includes a surprising number, making it a great tool for training on my local routes.
My only real complaint is that the console can feel a bit crowded when I’m running. Because the machine needs extra clearance to handle that massive incline range, the screen sits significantly closer to your body than it does on a traditional treadmill.
At times, it almost feels like sitting in the front row of a movie theater where you’re just too close to take in the whole picture comfortably.
I find myself wishing I could slide the console back a bit just to give my eyes some breathing room. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it is definitely something I notice during longer training sessions.
I also found that the touchscreen occasionally lags when I tap a button to change my speed or incline. Every now and then, it takes a few taps for the console to register the command and finally adjust.
It really only becomes annoying right at the end of a hard sprint interval, when I’m completely gassed and just want the belt to slow down for my recovery walk—though to be completely fair, that could easily be user error on my part from fatigue.
Set Up and Space
Before purchasing the X24, make sure you have room for it. This is a non-folding treadmill that weighs 445 lbs (in the box). You’ll want a dedicated location because moving it later won’t be easy.
Ceiling height is another consideration. Between the deck height and the 40% maximum incline, users in basements or rooms with lower ceilings should measure carefully before delivery. NordicTrack suggests calculating the minimum ceiling height by adding 3 feet to the user’s height.
Another minor consideration is if you plan to use the console for off-treadmill workouts, like yoga or strength training.
While the screen does swivel so you can follow along from the floor, you’ll need to have space behind the treadmill. If you want to workout to the side of it, the tall handlebars cut right through your line of sight and split the view in half. You can still see the screen, but having to peer around the bars to watch the instructor quickly gets a bit annoying.
iFit and App Integration
Like most NordicTrack machines, the X24 feels most complete when paired with iFIT. Honestly, I really like iFit. The trainers and the scenery add to the experience. Plus, I like to joke that I get to run with Sally McRae or Tommy Rivs.
The platform also includes trainer-led workouts, heart-rate-based training with ActivePulse, and access to streaming entertainment apps (perfect for binge-watching shows). While the treadmill can be used without iFIT, many of its most compelling features require a subscription.
Why We Chose the NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
When we started looking into upgrading our treadmill, we weren’t just looking for another way to run indoors. We wanted one that could replicate the demands of climbing and descending when outdoor training wasn’t practical—especially with John training for a mountainous 200-mile race and me preparing for a big mountain adventure.
Most treadmills max out at a 12% to 15% incline. While that increases effort, it doesn’t come close to replicating the feel of a sustained, steep mountain climb. The X24’s 40% incline changes the equation completely.
We also looked at stair climbers, but they create a completely different movement pattern than walking or running. Plus, I didn’t want to add one more piece of machinery to my living room. One of the things I appreciate most about the X24 is that it allows for a natural stride, whether I’m running, walking, or power hiking.
In fact, some of my favorite workouts on the X24 aren’t runs at all. Setting the incline between 15% and 25% and power hiking creates an incredibly effective workout that translates directly to hiking, backpacking, and everyday mountain fitness.
At the end of the day, the NordicTrack X24 isn’t a treadmill everyone needs. It’s a tool built for steep incline and decline training that standard treadmills just can’t match. If you aren’t planning to utilize those features, a traditional treadmill will serve you just fine and save you a lot of money and floor space in the process.
Our Verdict
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