Peloton vs. NordicTrack: Choosing the Right Fitness Equipment for You

Published on March 26 by Matt

Although Peloton and NordicTrack are two of the most popular at-home fitness equipment brands, they have key differences that set them apart. Whether you’re looking for a high-end exercise bike, a smart treadmill, or a complete interactive workout experience, understanding the distinctions between these brands can help you make the best choice for your fitness needs.

Brand Overview

NordicTrack

  • Founded in 1975, NordicTrack is known for its innovative fitness equipment, including treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and rowing machines.
  • Offers iFIT interactive training with a variety of workout styles.
  • Provides incline and decline capabilities on select models.
  • Appeals to users looking for versatility and a variety of workout options.

Peloton

  • Launched in 2012, Peloton became famous for its high-energy, immersive cycling workouts.
  • Offers a limited range of equipment, primarily focusing on bikes and treadmills.
  • Features live and on-demand classes led by professional trainers.
  • Best for users who thrive in a structured, community-driven workout environment.

Equipment Comparison

Exercise Bikes

  • Peloton Bike & Bike+: High-quality build with a sleek design, featuring live and on-demand cycling classes. The Bike+ has a rotating screen for off-bike workouts.
  • NordicTrack Studio Cycles (S22i & S27i): Offers incline/decline adjustments, a unique feature missing from Peloton, and integrates with iFIT for scenic rides.

Treadmills

  • Peloton Tread: A premium treadmill with a large HD touchscreen, high-quality belt, and engaging classes. Lacks incline/decline flexibility.
  • NordicTrack Treadmills (Commercial Series, Incline Trainers): Offers a variety of models with incline/decline adjustments and iFIT integration for terrain-based workouts.

Workout Programs & Subscription Services

  • Peloton App: Provides thousands of live and on-demand classes, leaderboard competition, and social engagement.
  • iFIT (NordicTrack): Offers interactive workouts with global locations, personal coaching, and incline/decline auto-adjustments.
  • Pricing: Peloton’s subscription costs around $44/month, while iFIT’s plans range from $15 to $39/month.

Price & Value

  • Peloton’s equipment tends to be more expensive upfront but provides an immersive, community-driven workout experience.
  • NordicTrack offers more variety in price points with flexible financing options and more features, such as incline training.

Which One Is Right for You?

  • Choose Peloton if you want a highly engaging, community-focused workout experience with top-tier instructors.
  • Choose NordicTrack if you prefer versatile workout options, incline/decline training, and a lower subscription cost.

Both NordicTrack and Peloton offer excellent at-home fitness solutions, but the best choice depends on your personal preferences and fitness goals. Peloton excels in cycling workouts and community-driven motivation, while NordicTrack provides more equipment variety and terrain-adaptive training options.