The NordicTrack Reflex 4500 Pro Treadmill with Extra Springy Cushioning

The NordicTrack Reflex 4500 Pro treadmill is a state-of-the-art design at a budget price. What with the quiet 3.0 DuraDrive™ Commercial Pro motor, the advanced Reflex™ shock absorption system, and an upgraded deck, it is amazing NordicTrack can price this at an affordable $1099.

The Machine

The NordicTrack Reflex 4500 Pro treadmill comes with a Grafixx™ LCD display that shows multiple fields of information or can be switched to a single display. You can access iFit® Live on the internet (using a home wireless network connection to iFit.com) to subscribe to workouts with trainer Jillian Michaels, view Google Maps for worldwide trails, or customize your own fitness program.

The full specs on the NordicTrack Reflex 4500 Pro are:

• 3.0 CHP Commercial DurX™ Motor
• 0-12 mph 1-Touch™ Speed
• 0-15% 1-Touch™ Incline
• 20" x 55" Commercial Tread Belt
• Reflex™ Cushioning
• 20 Workouts
• iFit® Live module compatible*
• iPod® plug-in port
• Intermix Acoustics™ 3.0 Sound System
• Dual-grip CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor
• 350 lbs User Weight Capacity
• SpaceSaver® Folding Design
• Warranty: Lifetime motor & frame, 2 yrs parts, 1 yr labor

*Home wireless network required. iFit Live module sold separately.

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The Reflex 4500 Pro treadmill is no longer being produced, replaced by a whole new lineup.   For a comparable machine check out the newest NordicTrack treadmills here.

Reviews on the NordicTrack 4500 Pro and the entire Reflex Series of treadmills have been thumbs up across the board due to the Reflex Cushioning System that stands apart. It is comprised of a solid piece of poplar wood and a shock absorbing system that responds with a noticeable “trampoline-type” reaction.

It is a bouncy system that absorbs your foot strike as you step, then springs back instantly when you lift your foot. Reflex cushioning reduces impact on your joints by up to 40% compared to running on a road.

Consumers also like the console design which has an MP3 player port and 3" high-excursion driver speakers, and easy access to the 20 pre-set workouts that focus on weight loss, aerobic fitness, or performance goals.

On the downside, the 2-year parts and 1-year labor warranty is notably weak; however, since the Reflex 4500 Pro treadmill offers the value of a machine costing $1500 or more, plus NordicTrack includes free shipping, it is advisable that you spend the extra money to extend the warranty.

What We Say

The NordicTrack Reflex 4500 Pro treadmill is an ideal choice for walkers who need a treadmill with extra cushioning. If you suffer from hip or knee problems and need to walk for exercise, this is the type of system to get.

And while walkers are usually stuck with sub-$1000 machines with skimpy motors, this 3.0 chp bad boy is tough enough to handle even an overweight walker.

Runners may not like the cushioning and feel it may be too springy, and they can look at two NT alternatives: the Commercial 1500 and the 1750, both with DuraSoft cushioning. Overall, for just $1,099 the NordicTrack Reflex 4500 Pro treadmill is a Good Buy.