Quick Answer: In addition to flexible incline and decline capability, consider factors like motor power and cushioning that will make exercise a little easier on your joints. Options like the NordicTrack X24 help you meet your fitness goals quickly and safely.
When fitness influencer Lauren Giraldo coined the 12-3-30 workout in 2019, its simplicity immediately went viral. The straightforward instructions — 30 minutes on the treadmill, at 3 miles per hour, on a 12% incline — made it easy to show up every day and just walk. But not every treadmill is ideal for the 12-3-30. If you plan to do this workout or other types of low-impact steady state cardio often, there are certain features you’ll want to look out for.
The NordicTrack X24 is a great option for workouts like incline walks and even hike conditioning, thanks to a powerful motor that enables inclines of up to 40% and declines of up to 6%. And if you want to think less and sweat more, its corresponding iFIT membership gives you access to thousands of trainer-led workouts on-demand so you never get bored. In CNET’s roundup of best treadmills, the NordicTrack X24 took the top spot and an editor’s choice designation.
Here’s what’s important to keep in mind when looking for the right machine.
What treadmill specs are important for the 12-3-30 workout?
- Motor Power: The steep incline of the 12-3-30 workout places continuous, uninterrupted strain on the treadmill belt, which can cause weaker motors to overheat or fail. A motor with high continuous horsepower, or CHP, is key.
- Max Incline Capability: Many home treadmills max out at a 10% incline, so it’s important to verify that your machine can attain inclines of at least 12%.
- Deck Cushioning: To protect your joints from impact stress, look for a high-quality shock-absorption cushioning system.
- Belt Size: A wide, roomy belt makes it easier to avoid injuries from missteps or stumbles, particularly with more fatiguing endurance workouts.
What sets NordicTrack apart?
NordicTrack pairs premium-grade hardware with smart, integrated software, offering a holistic approach to the at-home workout to help keep your fitness goals on track. And with its iFIT membership, NordicTrack brings the fitness class into your home with over 10,000 trainer-led workouts.
How do the top NordicTrack treadmills compare for incline training?
| Model | Best For | Max Incline/Decline | Motor Strength | Price Range |
| NordicTrack X24 | Dedicated 12-3-30 users, hikers and heavy incline trainers | 40% Incline / -6% Decline | 4.25 CHP | ~$2,999 |
| Commercial 1750 | Mixed-use runners who occasionally walk on inclines | 15% Incline / -3% Decline | 3.5 CHP | ~$2,499 |
| T16 | Budget-conscious walkers seeking basic incline; ideal for the “walking office” | 12% Incline / 0% Decline | 3.6 CHP | ~$1,699 |
Is the NordicTrack X24 Treadmill good for the 12-3-30 trend?
Yes. With its powerful motor and enormous incline/decline flexibility, the NordicTrack X24 is ideal for incline training workouts like the 12-3-30. Plus, its unique SpringFlex cushioning helps keep your joints safe from the stress impacts of longer workouts. It earned a CNET Editor’s Choice award thanks to its incredible versatility and 24-inch touchscreen display, which helps to make 30-minute workouts go by in the blink of an eye.
Does the NordicTrack X24 offer decline training?
With a decline capability of -6%, the NordicTrack X24 is perfect for hikers or walkers who want to vary their workouts with downhill training and target a wider range of muscle groups.
What other benefits come with the NordicTrack X24?
The NordicTrack X24 ranges from a 40% incline to a -6% decline, with a maximum belt speed of 12mph (the equivalent of a 5-minute mile). In addition, its massive 24-inch pivoting touchscreen display keeps every iFIT workout immersive and engaging.
What is an iFIT membership and what are the benefits?
While not required to use the NordicTrack X24, an iFIT membership enhances your fitness journey with over 10,000 instructor-led workouts. What’s more, you can track your fitness over time, get feedback from an AI Coach and take advantage of SmartAdjust, which responds to your workouts in real-time to help monitor and control your training intensity.
Is there a warranty on the NordicTrack X24?
The NordicTrack X24 comes with a lifetime motor warranty, as well as a 10-year frame warranty, two years on parts and one year on the tablet as well as labor and repairs, if necessary.
Click here to learn more about the NordicTrack X24 so you can start incorporating healthy workouts like 12-3-30 into your routine.
FAQ
Do I need an iFIT membership to use the NordicTrack X24?
No, you can use the treadmill in basic manual mode without a subscription. However, a free iFIT account is required to activate and register the machine. Furthermore, the NordicTrack X24 was designed for use with iFIT, so using it in conjunction with an iFIT membership is the best way to get the most out of your investment.
Is a 12% incline safe for fitness beginners?
If you’re new to cardio, marching headstrong up a 12% incline for 30 minutes may strain the Achilles tendon or lower back; beginners should start with a 5% to 8% incline and gradually build up to 12%.
Can I run on the NordicTrack X24?
Yes. While it excels at steep climbing, it has a top speed of 12 mph (a 5-minute mile) and a massive 60-inch deck, making it fully capable of handling intense running and sprinting.
How much space do I need for the NordicTrack X24?
The NordicTrack X24’s footprint is 69.9” in length and 38.1” in width, with a height of 73.3”. This is important to keep in mind, especially for apartments and other smaller spaces, as its weight — over 400 lbs out of the box — will likely deter moving it into position for each workout.
Does the NordicTrack X24 fold for storage?
No. Because of its massive incline mechanism and heavy-duty frame, the NordicTrack X24 does not fold and requires a dedicated, permanent footprint in your home gym.
