NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill Review – Pros & Cons (2024)

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Last Updated: January 3, 2023

In our NordicTrack 2950 review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, specs, and everything else this folding treadmill has to offer. The 2950 is Nordictrack’s most powerful folding treadmill. This sturdy machine is ideal for athletes who plan to train for long distances or those who have multiple users in their home. Marathoners, long distance runners and even triathletes will love the 2950 because it has a large 4.25HP self-cooling motor so it is well-suited for extensive use. The 15% incline and -3% decline also provide added training variables and the large 22” touchscreen brings the outdoors right into your home with impressive iFit content and outdoor workouts that span the globe. You no longer have to train by yourself in a cold garage during the off-season! With the 2950 runners everywhere can enjoy crisp blue skies and run along sandy white beaches all year long as the iFit classes bring the world into your home.

Nordictrack 2950 treadmill review 2024

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The 2950 is currently no longer in stock at NordicTrack, but we are watching to see if a new model is released in the future. If this happens, we will update this review once we test it.

Who It’s For: Serious runners or walkers who want a folding treadmill with a powerful motor

The 2950 is best suited for:

  • Dedicated runners who want a powerful treadmill for advanced training
  • Walkers looking for something with extensive cushioning that also folds up
  • Those looking for something to replace a gym membership
  • Users who want updated subscription content with both treadmill and floor classes for strength training, plyometrics, stretching and yoga.
  • Users who appreciate the perfectly-sized 22” touchscreen
  • Those who like a clean, simple console with minimal buttons but lots of functionality
  • Runners or walkers who want deck cushioning that can be turned on or off
  • Those who will use the -3% decline to +15% incline range
  • Users who value the iFit classes and content

Our Video Review


Pros
  • Upgraded 22” touchscreen with faster processor and WiFi connectivity
  • Streamlined console for easy navigation
  • iFit Family membership included free for one month with over 16,000 workouts
  • Cushioned deck feature can be turned on or off
  • Good sized tread belt provides extra width and length
  • Sleek design keeps your foot from grazing the motor hood
  • +15% incline and -3% decline automatically adjust for you in iFit, keeping your hands free
  • Incline/Decline range provides abundant training variables and combinations
  • High-end machine with hearty motor and impressive tech that still folds up
Cons
  • On the higher-priced end for folding treadmills
  • Has a maximum weight capacity of 300lbs which may be limiting for some users


Treadmill FeaturesSpecsTesting
  • Upgraded 22” Smart HD Touchscreen is faster and more responsive
    • The 22” touchscreen on the latest model of the 2950 has an upgraded processor and enhanced WiFi connectivity. There is reduced buffering time with the new processor so you can load iFit classes faster.
  • Upgraded 3” Digitally-amplified Speakers and Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity
    • You can now sync your wireless Bluetooth headphones directly with iFit. If you prefer, the upgraded speakers also provide good volume. These will sync with your phone as well if you want to play your music through the 2950 speakers.
  • OneTouch® Controls
    • The One Touch controls allow you to quickly adjust speed or incline with the touch of a button. Incline buttons are on the left while speed buttons are on the right of the touchscreen.
  • Dual AutoBreeze™ Workout Fans
    • There are two fans in the console which can be adjusted up or down for the right height. The fans have four settings and are powerful enough to cool you down while running.
  • -3% decline to +15% Incline
    • The automated incline/decline in iFit makes outdoor routes more realistic as the incline and decline automatically adjust to match the natural terrain. At a flat 0% incline, the deck on the 2950 has a 12” step-on height. At a 15% incline, the deck pivots to 18” off the floor.
  • Includes 1-Month Nordictrack iFit® Family membership
    • Users can access studio-based classes or follow along on an outdoor route guided by a personal trainer.
  • Runners Flex™ Cushioning
    • RunnersFlex cushioning that can be turned on or off via a lever on the side of the deck. When cushioning is turned “On,” a bar underneath the deck releases, allowing for more travel in the deck to reduce impact. When turned “Off” the bar locks up underneath the deck to limit flexibility.
  • SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist
    • The SpaceSaver design keeps the footprint small so even when open, the 2950 doesn’t take up too much space. To fold, simply grab the bar at the base of the deck and lift. To unlatch the deck, press your foot against the foot release bar on the underside of the deck and it will gently drop down to the floor via a hydraulic system.
  • 4.25 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor
    • This is the same power motor found on the Nordictrack 2950 Incline Trainer. The 4.25 motor is surprisingly quiet and manages both speed and incline adjustments without any lag between settings.
  • 300 Lb. User Weight Capacity
    • This is a moderate weight capacity for a high-end machine. The 2950 will support up to 300 pounds.

Updates:

  • Upgraded 22” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Free 30-Day iFit membership with up to 5 profiles
  • Automatic Trainer Control
  • Improved HD Graphics Performance
  • Increased Processor Cooling
  • Faster Dual 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz WiFi Connectivity
  • Quiet Drive Incline Tech
  • Updated Android 9 OS
  • Bluetooth Headphone Connectivity

Construction:

  • 4.25 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor
  • 2.5” Precision-machined and Balanced Non-flex Rollers
  • 22” x 60” Non-Stretch 2-Ply Commercial Belt
  • Dimensions: 79” L x 39” W x 66” H
  • 300 Lb. User Weight Capacity

Console:

  • 22” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Syncs with Bluetooth Headphones
  • Upgraded 3” Digitally-amplified Speakers
  • Live Touch Buttons
  • EKG Grip Pulse
  • Dual AutoBreeze™ Workout Fans

Functionality:

  • 15% Incline
  • -3% Decline
  • 12 MPH Speed
  • Includes 30-day Nordictrack iFit® Family membership with up to 5 profiles
  • Runners Flex™ Cushioning
  • SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist
  • Integrated Accessory Tray

Warranty:

  • 10-Year Frame Warranty
  • 2-Year Parts Warranty
  • 1-Year Labor Warranty
  • *Restocking fee (for all returns)

Reviewer Tests & Scoring

We use the following tests to evaluate various treadmill features. Each test is administered in our studio by our professional reviewers. We have reviewers of all sizes test each model. Test scores range from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)

Motor Power Test: 5 (motor is powerful and quiet)

  • Motor size: 4.25 HP
  • Roller size: 2.5” rollers
  • Belt quality: 2-ply
  • Noise: within normal range
  • Responsiveness: The motor is quiet and responsive. The new upgraded motor is noticeably faster as well.

We tested the motor power on the 2950 by having several different reviewers use it non-stop for several hours. I’ve run on the 2950 for several testing sessions. Most recently, I completed an iFit HIIT workout that included both sprints and jogging intervals that toggled between 7mph and 9mph. The motor didn’t overheat, had no performance issues, and was able to maintain a steady pace throughout the training session. All our reviewers found the 2950 to be smooth and responsive. We have no concerns about motor power or longevity.

Cushioning Tests: 5 (Gentle and smooth; excellent for distance training)

We use several tests to assess cushioning:

  • Walk Test: <3mph
    • The 2950 feels very comfortable when walking. This treadmill is designed for runners with the powerful motor and elongated deck, but it works equally well for walking or jogging. I find it to be comfortable and cushioned for both long and short distances.
  • Jog Test <6mph
    • Jogging is also smooth and I was able to jog for several sessions on the 2950 without discomfort. A light jog at 6mph was easy to maintain.
  • Run Test: <9mph
    • The 2950 excels at both long distances and high speeds. The deck is supportive with a cushioned landing and solid toe-off. We recommend this treadmill for marathoners, triathletes, and homes with multiple users.
  • Sprint Test: >9mph
    • This is faster than my typical pace, so I had to do intervals to achieve the 9mph pace. At this pace, some other treadmills can either feel stiff or get really bouncy. The 2950 has perfect deck construction with just enough give for a soft landing – but plenty of support for a healthy stride. This is our favorite treadmill for runners.

Frame Size: 5 (all the bells and whistles – and it folds!)

  • Overall size: Deck is 22” wide and 60” long but still folds up!
  • Max weight: 300lbs
  • Treadmill weight: Just over 400lbs
  • Fold/Lock/Move: Folding is easy. The deck locks into place. Wheels under the base make it relatively easy to move when needed.

The dimensions of the Nordictrack 2950 is 79” L x 39” W x 66” H, so it takes up a bit of space when fully open, but folds up to 44” L x 39” W x 79” H. The step up height is 11” and the full incline is 18” off the floor. This is an excellent folding treadmill – just make sure you have enough room around the machine when it’s fully open.

Console: 5 (22” touchscreen and clutter-free console)

This console is gorgeous. The touchscreen is large and lovely, the buttons are easy to see and reach, and the layout is simple and intuitive. The screen really pulls you in and makes it feel like you are on site, hiking the remote mountains of New Zealand or strolling the cobblestone streets of London.

  • Screen size: 22” with crisp graphics
  • App interface: Intuitive, easy to use
  • Touchscreen responsiveness: Improved from 2020, very responsive
  • Size/Placement of Buttons: Large and easy to reach
  • Display Metrics: All needed metrics displayed including time, distance, calories, etc.
  • Layout: Console layout is clean; buttons and cup holders are easy to reach.

Durability: 5 (all our 2950’s have always worked great with no issues)

  • Long term durability: The 2950 has good durability reviews. We hear a few customer service complaints about Nordictrack, but the 2950 is consistently well-reviewed by customers for value and longevity.
  • Good for multiple users: Yes! This will support multiple users in your home
  • Can withstand hours per day: Yes, this motor is perfect for extended use. We tested this non-stop for several hours per session
  • Customer feedback: No issues with this product; a few ongoing complaints about Nordictrack customer service.

Warranty: 4 (impressive 10-year warranty, but there is a restocking fee)

  • Length: 10 years frame/motor, 2 years parts, 1 year labor
  • Restocking fee: Yes, $250 for a return (even on warrantied problems)
  • Restocking fee is frustrating for new buyers who want to return the machine.

Subscription: 5 (This can easily replace a gym membership)

  • Content quality: Exceptional
  • Instruction quality: Exceptional
  • Instructor quality: Exceptional
  • Videography: Impressive, movie-quality videography. Multiple angles.
  • Worth monthly fee: Yes. Especially since the first year is free.

iFit is exceptional and it’s getting better every month. iFit adds new classes and features constantly. From Live classes to Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphones to expanded class options and even impressive videography, the subscription content on the 2950 is exceptional. The instructors are professional and the videography feels like a movie. Indoor classes are good, but the outdoor locations are where iFit really shines.

Class Variety: 5 (Live, On-demand, cardio, strength, yoga, recovery, TED talks)

  • Variety of classes: Abundant classes. Live, on-demand, studio, outdoor, etc.
  • Subscription will cover other machines: Yes! One iFit subscription will cover several Nordictrack or ProForm machines (bike, rower, etc.)
  • Good for Cardio: Excellent for cardio (hiking, walking, jogging, running)
  • Good for Strength: Lots of strength options (you may need your own equipment)
  • Good for Yoga/Stretching: Yes, lots of yoga and stretching sessions
  • News/TED/Other: TED talks, other streaming content. No live news or news channels.
  • Can watch Netflix, etc: No, Designed to show iFit content only

You can use this for cardio conditioning, strength training, yoga and stretching and even just casual walking anytime of the day. There are indoor training classes and outdoor routes all over the world. Strength training classes can be easily viewed on the large touchscreen anywhere in your room so you don’t have to stand right next to the machine. The 2950 could easily replace a gym membership since it offers such extensive training options.

Overall Value: 5 (You get a lot of bang for your buck on the 2950)

The biggest question we hear is, “Would you recommend this to family and friends?” The answer for the 2950 is definitely yes! This is a fun machine to use. I feel like I could jump on the 2950 at any time and not feel discomfortable or bored. The cushioning helps my knees and feet not hurt and the programs are engaging and make the time fly by.

In-depth NordicTrack 2950 Review


Functionality

The Nordictrack 2950 is great for running

This treadmill is a runner’s dream. It has a soft, cushioned deck that is expansive but still folds up. The powerful 4.25HP motor is self-cooling and will provide hours of training without overheating or wearing out. This is the ideal folding treadmill for marathoners, triathletes, or anyone who plans to run longer distances. The Nordictrack 2950 is one of the few machines we recommend for extended training. It is also good for those who want to begin a running regimen since the cushioned deck is supportive and helps runners develop a balanced gait.

iFit provides excellent cross-training options

For those who want more full-body training, the 2950 includes iFit free for the first month which includes classes for strength training, plyometrics, bootcamp, stretching and yoga. You can select classes that use equipment, those that just use bands, or plyometric bodyweight workouts. (Workout equipment such as dumbbells, bands, etc., is not included). The large 22” touchscreen is easy to see from anywhere in your room, so you can stand to the side of the treadmill and follow an iFit strength training class.

The Nordictrack 2950 is great for weight loss

If you have set a goal to lose a few pounds this year, the 2950 is a helpful tool. The combination of motivating trainers and varied iFit content can help you gain cardiovascular conditioning, strengthen and tone your muscles, and increase your daily calorie burn. When used regularly and combined with healthy lifestyle choices, the 2950 can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Overview of Construction

Steel Frame

Two steel side beams with one cross beam mid-deck and one more at the base of the deck support and stabilize the frame. All steel beams are powder-coated for protection. Like other folding treadmills, the 4.25 CHP motor is at the front of the deck, protected by a motor hood. Four steel springs and a pivoting brace under the deck create the RunnersFlex cushioning. Handrails are black molded plastic and extend 20” forward from the console for good support. Confident in the quality of this machine, Nordictrack backs up the construction of the 2950 with a 10-year frame warranty.

22” x 60” Deck

    • Cushioning/Feel: RunnersFlex cushioning keeps the deck sturdy for a good toe-off while still allowing for a bit of downward travel to moderate impact. Advertised as Nordictrack’s “most cushioned deck,” the 2950 rivals higher-priced machines with a well-engineered tread deck that still folds up.
      • Foot impact from running can be up to double a runner’s weight. This constant jarring is hard on the joints and spine. It also causes more discomfort both during and after a run. The cushioning in the 2950 reduces foot impact by allowing the deck to absorb the shock rather than your body.
      • You can turn cushioning “on” or “off” via a lever on the side of the deck. For those training for an outdoor event, you can turn the cushioning off to simulate more of a “road” feel.

Nordictrack 2950 deck

    • Length/Width: The 22” wide tread belt offers 2” more lateral space than on other folding treadmills. 60” in length is also impressive and provides plenty of both forward and aft length for a long stride or tall runner. The length of the belt allows the console to be set back a bit from the front of the tread deck — so you can stand right in front of the console and not hit the motor hood with your foot.

Nordictrack 2950 folding grab bar

  • Belt: The commercial belt is 2-ply with good texture on the surface. It does not flap against the deck while in use and I didn’t hear the characteristic sliding sound as my feet moved along the belt.
  • Rollers: Two 2.5” rollers move the belt along the deck. Placed at the top and rear of the running platform, these help create a smooth belt flow. Small rollers require more tension to keep the belt in place, so the 2.5” rollers on the 2950 entend the life of the belt and reduce overall wear and tear.

4.25 CHP Motor with Quiet Drive Incline Tech

Nordictrack 2950 motor hood

The 4.25 CHP motor is self-cooling and commercial grade for durability and strength. It has been upgraded to include a Quiet Drive incline tech feature that reduces the overall noise when the deck inclines or declines. Since incline is one of the main features on the 2950, we are pleased to see Nordictrac upgrading the incline feature to make it even smoother and quieter than before. This treadmill is noticeably quieter than the 1750 or even the 2450.

+15% Incline to -3% Decline

The respectable decline to incline range on the 2950 is one of its best features. This offers multiple training variables and provides a great way to stimulate calorie burn while staying low-impact. Nordictrack tested the caloric demand when working an incline and found that a 200lb person walking at 2mph for 20minutes burned 157 calories at a 10% incline and 63 calories at a -6% decline. Just hiking up the incline is sufficient to stimulate extra calorie-burn. Additionally, the decline feature makes the outdoor routes feel more realistic as the deck inclines and declines to match the natural terrain.

NordicTrack 2950 Console/Controls

Nordictrack 2950 console and touchscreen

Upgraded 22” HD Touchscreen

The 22” HD touchscreen has also been upgraded with a faster processor and Android 9 OS. This allows the iFit classes to load faster with better response time when you tap the touchscreen buttons. The screen uses high resolution and the quality graphics really bring the outdoors to you. On one of my favorite routes, I enjoyed the Icelandic landscape as much as the run. The screen also pivots gently up and down so you can adjust it to your visual range. These days users are looking for more out of a treadmill than just a moving track to run on at home. The 2950’s screen size and quality graphics overcome the monotony and isolation of exercising at home. I found the touchscreen on the 2950 to be noticeably faster and more responsive than previous models.

Console Layout

The console is simple and streamlined on the 2950. Extra buttons have been eliminated since most program features are controlled via touchscreen. The main area of the console includes the screen, OneTouch controls on either side, fans and speakers. It is a very sleek design. A ledge just below that features the fan and volume buttons, manual speed and incline controls, Start/Stop buttons and Emergency Key.

Fans

Nordictrack 2950 console controls

The two workout fans in the console are good height and provide a nice breeze. Multiple power settings allow you to find just the right amount of flow. The fans are not too loud.

Upgraded 3” Dual Speakers

Shaped more like a sound bar, the speakers wrap around the fans so the sound resonates evenly on both sides. Speakers have good volume. If anything, they get a bit loud when turned all the way up. But the quality is clear so it isn’t fuzzy even when turned all the way up.

Bluetooth Enabled for Wireless Headphones

The latest model has also been upgraded so it now syncs easily with Bluetooth headphones. You can listen to your program on your headphones without disturbing those around you.

No Tablet Holder

There is no longer a tablet holder on the 2950. Since the machine is designed to feature iFit, the screen size has increased significantly over the past few years. Nordictrack expects most users will watch an iFit program on the screen rather than use a tablet.

Other Storage

An extra storage tray spans the uprights underneath the console. This features two large side pockets and an extra fan in the middle. Two large water bottle holders flank the console and there’s also a little lip on each side for a phone or keys.

Subscription: iFit included free for the first month

Nordictrack 2950 screen graphics

A purchase of the 2950 includes an iFit Family Plan free for the first month. iFit is Nordictrack’s proprietary database of routes and classes. It is extensive with multiple classes and training options available. Be advised, you need WiFi to run iFit programs. When you first set up your treadmill, the screen will prompt you to log in and connect to your personal network. It will then automatically reconnect whenever you turn on the machine. Without WiFi you will not be able to run iFit.

  • Varied training options: iFit offers a wide variety of classes. The new interface has been improved so finding the right workout program is now easier. When you first load iFit, a few new workouts will appear on the screen. You can also select workouts by type, trainer or location. The classes include in-studio workouts or outdoor routes anywhere the world. There are walking, hiking, jogging or running options as well as combo classes, bootcamp options or strength training and even yoga.
  • Live and On-Demand Classes: iFit offers both recorded on-demand classes that can be viewed at any time or live classes that are scheduled in advance.
  • Outdoor Running Routes: The outdoor routes are updated regularly and feature options of all lengths and difficulties. Some of the recent additions include hikes through Zion National Park, trail walks through New Zealand, or a Thanksgiving 10k run filmed live with other runners.
  • Walking Routes: The classes are not just for runners! There are fantastic walking tours all over the world in some beautiful locations. I’ve enjoyed hikes through the plains of Africa, the mountains of New Zealand, and even a delightful tour through downtown London.
  • Cross-Training, Strength Training, Yoga: Some of the more challenging workouts incorporate exercises both on and off the treadmill. You can choose a class that combines a little bit of interval running with weight training off the treadmill — or select a stretching option that has you work and then stretch certain muscles.
  • Adaptive Heart Rate Training: iFit now includes adaptive heart rate training where the difficulty of the workout is customized based on your heart rate zones and specific workout goals.
  • Leaderboard: iFit also includes a Leaderboard similar to those found on other subscription platforms. The Leaderboard appears on the right side of the screen and has several filters. If you don’t want to see the Leaderboard, simply swipe to the right and it will disappear off the screen.

Storage / Folding

Nordictrack 2950 treadmill folded

The 2950 folds up easily. Using a bar at the base of the deck, you just lift and the running platform will rise to connect with the console and lock in place. Once locked, the deck is stable and shouldn’t accidentally come unlatched. The 2950 also has wheels under the front stabilizers so you can pivot the machine forward and gently roll it out of the way.


Bottom Line: NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Review

The 2950 is our pick for the Best Treadmill for Runners because it offers everything a dedicated runner needs: speed, incline, deck cushioning, training options, and a large touchscreen. You’ll be hard pressed to get bored on the 2950! The upgraded model is faster, more responsive and quieter as well. This is the highest grade Nordictrack treadmill that will still fold up. We are consistently impressed with the 2950 and highly recommend it for anyone looking for the right combination of quality, tech, and functionality on a folding treadmill.

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