NordicTrack GX 4.5 Recumbent Bike Review

The NordicTrack GX 4.5 is a recumbent exercise bike that allows the user to exercise in an almost lying down position. The padded seat has a back support and the user operates the pedals with their legs stretched out in front of them.

The arrangement of the seat and pedals on this type of exercise bike puts less stress on the joints than an upright bike. This makes it ideally suited to people who are out of condition or who are recovering from an injury although all users will benefit from using it.

The bike has 24 challenging programs consisting of 12 calorie workouts and 12 performance workouts. Additionally there are 22 digital resistance levels which can be selected from a button on the control console to help you burn more calories or tone up.

This exercise bike is iFIT compatible. The iFIT facility greatly enhances the workout experience. You can train with Jillian Michaels, and receive workout downloads. This particular feature requires the iFIT module and a subscription to iFIT which is sold separately.

Other highlights include: Silent Magnetic Resistance braking, CardioGrip heart rate monitor, back-lit display, and a sound system with iPOD / MP3 connectivity.

The machine is covered by a comprehensive warranty which offers a lifetime warranty on the frame, 1 year on all parts and 1 year labor.

Here’s a list of the main features:

… control console

The console houses the controls necessary for the operation of the bike including buttons to select the various workout programs (calorie or performance), resistance level selection, switch on the workout fan and adjust the volume of the audio speakers.

There is a further bank of buttons which can be used with the optional iFIT features for users that choose to purchase the optional iFIT module and subscribe to the iFIT service.

A back-lit display at the top of the console provides the user with feed back on their workout, while a 3.5 mm jack located on the control panel allows audio devices such as an iPOD or MP3 player to be hooked up to the in-built speakers.

… back lit display

A 4″ back-lit display provides feedback. The screen has a wide viewing angle making it easy to keep an eye on all relevant workout data. The display provides information on the following parameters:

DISTANCE
PULSE
RESISTANCE
SPEED
TIME
CALORIES

… one-touch resistance

This exercise bike makes it easier to burn calories and increase your muscle tone by allowing the user to increase or decrease the amount of resistance that is applied to the bike’s motion.

There are a total of 22 digital resistance levels which can be selected from the conveniently located buttons on the control panel.

… workout programs

The exercise bike has 24 built-in workout programs. Each workout has been designed by a certified personal trainer in order to help you get the most out of your workout session. These 24 workouts consist of 12 calorie workouts and 12 performance workouts.

… iFIT compatible

This equipment is iFIT compatible. In essence this is a wireless connection between the internet and the exercise bike which provide additional interest to your workout regime.

The iFIT feature enables you to customize your own fitness program, receive automatic workout downloads, manage your profile online and even work out with Jillian Michaels!

It should be noted that this particular feature requires a home wireless internet connection, the iFIT module, and membership to iFIT which is sold separately.

… magnetic braking

Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) braking is used on this model. This system offers a frictionless, resistance braking which is very smooth in operation and allows the user to adjust the intensity of their workout without having to break the continuity of their workout.

… precision flywheel

An important component of any exercise bike is the flywheel. This model has a 15 lbs, inertia enhanced flywheel that has been designed to give a silky smooth operation. This will benefit the user with a much more natural, fluid feel when pedaling.

… adjustable seat

To ensure a good seating position during your workout the bike is fitted with an over size, padded seat with lumbar support. The seat is mounted on a rail and can be slid forward or back and then locked into position to ensure the optimum seating position for the user.

… heart rate monitor

The exercise bike is also equipped with a “CardioGrip” heart rate monitor. This helps you to make the most out of every workout by monitoring your heart rate with sensors that are built into the handlebars.

By monitoring your heart rate you can ensure that you’re always in the right training zone for your goals. This results in a more effective workout, burn more fat, and improve your cardiovascular health.

… iPOD connection

The user can plug in their iPOD, or MP3 player, into the 3.5 mm jack situated on the control panel using a suitable audio cable (not supplied).

The user is now able to enjoy listening to their favorite music or an audio book through the speakers built into the control console rather than being constrained by a dangling, earphone cable.

Buttons on the control console allow the volume from the twin speakers to be adjusted to taste.