NordicTrack 1250 Treadmill Review | Run, iFIT, Fold, Repeat

Dimensions/Storability

At 77.3” L x 37” W x 59.5” H, the 1250 is not small. It also weighs 322 lbs as it comes shipped, so it’s a heavy machine. It is a folding frame, so you can save some space when you aren’t using it. Otherwise, I recommend finding it a dedicated spot. I can roll treadmills around that are this size on my own, but it can be a hassle to do regularly.

We could move the 1250 around, and though the new model is heavier, it should still be maneuverable.

The folding frame has a hydraulic arm that helps you lift and lower the deck. It has a kick-release mechanism that unlocks the deck from its upright, folded position. The deck will then softly lower to the ground on its own.

The NordicTrack 1750 and 2450 have maximum deck heights of about 17” when fully inclined; the 1250 should be the same. Thus, we recommend a minimum ceiling height of 7’10” for 6’ runners. That’s user height plus 22”.

Onboard Workouts & Apps

I like to think of the NordicTrack 1250 and iFIT training platform as a package deal. It’s kind of like the 1250 is the console for accessing iFIT, if you will. While the 1250 is usable without iFIT and may be the best Commercial Series treadmill from NordicTrack when used without it, it’s not what I recommend for the best experience.

Non-subscribers and unsubscribers are limited to the manual mode only when not logged into a free iFIT account. I recommend not connecting to or disconnecting from the internet. That makes getting to the manual mode simpler.

If you connect to Wi-Fi and make a free iFIT account, you get a few more workout options. I counted ten in addition to the manual mode. These include a couple of featured iFIT classes and a few structured workouts that automatically adjust speed and incline, but they only show a basic screen.

iFIT

To be completely honest, I’m not advocating for iFIT so heavily because my end goal is to get you to subscribe. No. While I think iFIT is a great platform for many people, I emphasize it so much because I don’t want anyone to be disappointed with their NordicTrack treadmill because they don’t have the subscription.

If you are looking for subscription-based training with guided classes and tailored intensity settings, iFIT is one of the best. The treadmill classes are mainly outdoor classes that follow a trainer as they progress along a trail or scenic route. Walkers, hikers, and runners will all be able to find a class that suits their training style.

This is the T Series 10 Treadmill, but the screen size and layout are the same as the 1250, so it should give you a good idea of what an iFIT class looks like on the 1250.

iFIT adjusts the speed and incline of the 1250 automatically. You can follow the preset options of the class, or you can enable SmartAdjust or ActivePulse. These features tailor the speed and incline adjustments to you.

Smart Adjust learns your fitness level over time. It remembers your workout performance and any time you override the preset levels on the class to be easier or harder. Then, it will increase or decrease the intensity of your current class and future classes appropriately.

ActivePulse works with a heart rate monitor. The speed and incline adapt to keep you in the right heart rate training zone as prescribed by the workout. I really like it for heart rate training. A lot of the classes are done in Zone 2, so it’s great for your easy days. I also tend to neglect the incline on other treadmills, but ActivePulse helps me incorporate incline without changing my intensity.

iFIT is more than just trainer-led classes. You can also join series and challenges for ongoing training. In the create section, you get even more options: an interval workout building, target programs, and template workouts that you can perform as is or build from.

Google Maps is another cool feature. It allows you to draw a route pretty much anywhere in the world. The treadmill will then adjust to the real-life grade of the route, and your icon will progress through the miles according to your chosen speed. It’s a cool way to experience the hills of a route you can’t run for real.

The 1250 provides access to all of these apps on screen when you subscribe to iFIT.

But what about entertainment? Well, you can also access a few different apps with an iFIT membership. These include Netflix, Prime Video, Pluto TV, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and Audible. You can use any of these apps while training in an iFIT class or doing any of the other workout options.

The final iFIT feature I want to mention is the AI Coach Tailor. This feature is optional, so you can opt in if you want to try it out. The AI Coach will text you to learn your goals and send you training advice. Tailor’s most useful feature is the ability to schedule relevant workouts. They will appear in your iFIT calendar and at the top of the iFIT dashboard when you first log in.

Console

The NordicTrack 1250 has a 10” touchscreen display. One of the first things you might notice, especially if you are familiar with older NordicTracks, is the lack of speed and incline quick-adjust buttons. These number buttons are nowhere to be found on the new console.

I was worried about the lack of buttons on the NordicTrack treadmill consoles, but my experiences with the new lineup, including the T Series 10’s screen, put my fears to rest. iFIT’s automatic resistance adjustments make training hands-free easier than ever. The only time you might miss the buttons is when you are training in manual mode.

One of the key differences between the 1250 and the other Commercial Series treadmills is the lack of screen rotation. It only tilts up and down and does not rotate side to side.

Like the 1250, the T Series 10 has a 10” display on a console that does not rotate side to side.

You can’t have a screen and subscription service without audio. The 1250 has a set of front-facing speakers below the screen, and NordicTrack has never let us down with the audio quality and volume range. However, you can pair Bluetooth headphones to listen quietly if you prefer.

Bluetooth also allows you to connect a Bluetooth heart rate monitor, which you will need to do if you plan to use the ActivePulse feature. Most monitors should connect via Bluetooth unless they require a more specific protocol. For instance, my Garmin watch connects fine.

The 1250 has a cooling fan with three speeds and an automatic feature. The auto mode allows the fan speed to adjust automatically to match your training intensity. If you run faster, the fan speed will increase.

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Build Quality

In addition to updating the screen, NordicTrack also improved the build quality of the 1250. The deck is larger, the weight capacity is higher, and the motor is more powerful. These are all things that have improved the 1250’s build quality and performance.

This older version of the 1250 looks a lot like the new model, but we spotted key differences that demonstrate NordicTrack’s commitment to improving.

Frame

NordicTrack stuck to their tried and true Z-shaped frame. The base of the treadmill and the upright are all steel. The footrails and handrails are made of textured plastic, which offers stable support and is easy to clean. I had hoped that NordicTrack would make them feel a little more premium, but they are perfectly functional as is.

The 1250 now has a 400-lb weight capacity, making it one of the best in this price range. If the deck is as heavy and sturdy as the new 1750 and 2450, I have no doubt about this new rating.

Motor

I am so happy to see the 1250 upgraded to a 3.6 CHP motor. This motor strength is perfect for long-distance running. You can do everything from walking to training for a marathon on this treadmill.

The only time I would really recommend going with the more powerful 1750 or 2450 is if you have multiple runners in your household training on the treadmill every day. The 2450 also goes up to 14 mph, so it’s the better option if you need a faster treadmill.

With a maximum speed of 12 mph, the 1250 falls in line with most home treadmills. The incline range is more impressive, ranging from -3% up to 12%. I love that the treadmill inclines and declines so you can get the full experience of running uphill and downhill with the iFIT coach.

Because we don’t have the newest model of the 1250 in our studio, I haven’t been able to test the motor noise or responsiveness. However, I can tell you that the 1750 and 2450 both got a little quieter and much more responsive when adjusting speed. I expect the 1250 to follow suit with its new motor.

I expect the 1250 noise level to be around 50 dB at three mph to 68 dB at 12 mph.

If we receive the 1250 for testing, I will update this review with our findings for noise, motor responsiveness, and incline accuracy.

Deck

The NordicTrack 1250 provides enough room for running with its 22” wide and 60” long running deck. You have plenty of space with this deck to run fast, all the way up to the 12 mph speed limit, without feeling crowded.

NordicTrack is known for its soft cushioning, and since the 2450 and 1750 haven’t changed, I don’t expect the 1250 to either. It should be every bit as cushioned, providing a soft running surface. I’ve inspected a lot of treadmill shock absorbers, and NordicTrack’s are noticeably softer to the touch than any competitor’s that I’ve tried.

The old NordicTrack 1250 seemed spacious enough at 20” wide, but those extra 2” feel even more comfortable for running.

The step-up height to the deck should be about 9-10”. There was about a 1” difference between the 1750 and the 2450, so expect the 1250 to fall somewhere within this range. NordicTrack reports all of the step-up heights at 10”.

I also expect that the deck thickness is comparable at about 0.75”.

Warranty

NordicTrack supplies a standard warranty of ten years on the frame, two years for parts, and one year for the tablet. Labor is also covered for one year. While this meets industry standards, I must point out that the 1750 and 2450 have the superior warranty: a lifetime frame and motor warranty.

Should You Buy the NordicTrack 1250

Are you looking for a softly cushioned running treadmill with guided training programs? Then, yes, I think the NordicTrack 1250 would be a good purchase for you. If you aren’t ready to commit to a subscription-based training service, then maybe not.

The NordicTrack 1250 has a 10” touchscreen that acts as your window to connected fitness classes and entertainment apps with iFIT. You can tour distant locations through workouts or stream your favorite Netflix shows. It’s a great way to enhance your workout.

I like the NordicTrack 1250 for easy runs and long runs because the soft cushioning makes running more comfortable and easier on the body. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide the kind of workout you want for your walks, hikes, and runs indoors.

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NordicTrack 1250 Treadmill Q&A / FAQ

Is the NordicTrack 1250 a good treadmill?

The NordicTrack 1250 is a good treadmill for walkers and runners who want soft cushioning and a subscription training service. The 1250 pairs with the iFIT platform to give exercisers thousands of training classes guided by expert coaches.

Can you watch TV on the NordicTrack 1250?

You can watch Netflix, Prime Video, and Pluto TV when you have an active iFIT membership on the NordicTrack 1250.

How big is the NordicTrack 1250 Treadmill?

The NordicTrack 1250 is 77.3” L x 37” W x 59.5” H. It is a folding treadmill, so you can reduce its footprint when it is not in use.

What is the life expectancy of a NordicTrack treadmill?

We expect treadmills in this price point to last up to 10 years. We have received reports of NordicTrack treadmills lasting much longer, too. Your experience may vary depending on your treadmill use, keeping up with the maintenance routine, and other factors. The 1250 has a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year parts warranty, and a 1-year labor warranty.

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