What is iFIT and Should You Get It?

If you’ve been looking at exercise equipment these days you’ve likely come across something called iFIT. It is one of the latest developments in the world of fitness machines. Many of the latest makes and models of ellipticals and treadmills feature built in iFIT technology. But what exactly is this feature and is it really worth spending a little bit more for an elliptical machine that includes it?

Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about iFit in a nutshell:

What is iFIT?

iFIT is an immersive workout program that you can access either on your device or on the machine itself, giving you access to an ever-growing library of professional trainer led workouts. There are programs for every level: beginner, intermediate and advanced, and you can choose exotic locations all over the world to virtually train there.

While most ellipticals come with a range of workout programs included, iFIT can take that to the next level by expanding your horizons and giving you endless programs that you can use on and off the elliptical.

To see all of the current models that carry iFIT you can see them at NordicTrack here and ProForm here.

Included in the latest iFIT iteration, on top of all of the workouts, is SmartAdjust, which automatically changes the resistance, inline and decline on your elliptical so you can concentrate on the workout. ActivePulse uses Bluetooth technology to keep your intensity in the ideal heart rate zone.

You also get personalized recommendations based on your feedback, challenges, tracking, app connectivity and the newest addition, an AI coach who can plan out all of your workouts.

The nutrition and workout trackers can help you stay on top of calories burned to ensure that you are maximizing weight loss and getting the most benefits possible from your workout, whether you are looking to lose weight or just stay in shape.

iFIT’s direct connection to Google Maps literally lets you workout wherever you want, around the world. Simply choose the route you want and your machine will automatically take you through all of the ups and downs of that particular terrain. This is especially handy if you are training for a specific race. You can select the route of the race itself and be able to adjust your machine, and your body, to the nuances of the terrain. And you watch this all unfold right on the touchscreen on your elliptical. Yes, it is definitely as cool as it sounds!

How much does iFIT cost and which ellipticals have it?

Of course, like all good things, iFIT does involve some extra expense. Currently all NordicTrack and ProForm ellipticals come with iFit, as does some Matrix ellipticals. Most have touch screens as well.

As of this writing, the program is called iFIT Pro, and it is available month to month or as a 1,2 or 3 year membership. Monthly membership is $39, 1 year is $396 on sale, 2 years is $699 on sale and 3 years is $899 on sale. Note that these rates will likely change, but this will give you a general idea of what to expect.

There are also machines that come free if you commit to 3 years of iFIT, like the ProForm Carbon E10. So the machine itself is at no cost, but you do have to pay for iFit for that three year period. We’re not sure if they will continue to offer that going forward.

It may seem like a bit much on top of the price of the elliptical itself, but most people feel it is well worth it in order to get the most out of your machine.

Of course, you’ll also need a wireless home network in order to access iFIT but once you have your account set up, you can access it from any iFIT compatible machine, so you can get the same individualized workout you’d get at home at the gym by logging into your account from the gym machines.

iFIT is the next dimension in exercise technology and it is already having a major impact on exercise enthusiasts around the world. You can get in on the fun when you purchase your next elliptical by making sure you buy an iFIT enabled or compatible machine. Then the workout you want will just be a few taps away!

To see all of the current models that carry iFit you can see them at NordicTrack here and ProForm here.

What’s the bottom line on iFIT ellipticals?

Do you need iFIT on your elliptical? Of course not. Is it really cool and if you are considering an iFIT brand elliptical is it worth it? We believe so for one simple reason…

The more you enjoy working out, the more often you will do it. So anything that adds to your enjoyment, that motivates you to get on the machine every day, is a very good thing indeed. The workout programs and tracking are great, but we believe the coolest feature is the ability to run anywhere in the world and actually see it while you work out. It really amps you up to actually follow a marathon path, hike through mountains, traverse bridges, go through national parks…it really is like you are there.

Why stare at the wall in front of you or watch the same videos over and over again when you can literally work out anywhere in the world?

iFIT is very cool, that’s the bottom line. It’s a relatively small monthly or yearly fee, and if it will get you on the elliptical a few more times each month it’s certainly worth it. And if you decide for whatever reason that it’s not for you, although we don’t see how that would be possible 🙂 you can always just cancel it.

And again, if you’re looking at a Horizon or Sole or other brand that doesn’t have iFIT compatibility, it’s certainly not a deal breaker. Other brands offer their own version of iFIT, or at least the ability to link to one fitness app or another, so you’ll be just fine without it.

Have you used iFit? Tell us about it!