If you’re thinking about buying a NordicTrack treadmill, you might be wondering about the entertainment options. Can you watch TV on NordicTrack treadmill models? The simple answer is yes, absolutely. Most of their modern machines are built with this in mind, turning your workout time into entertainment time. This guide will show you exactly how it works on different models.
Can You Watch TV on NordicTrack Treadmill
NordicTrack treadmills, especially those with iFit compatibility, are designed for media consumption. The large, tilting touchscreen is your portal to not just workouts, but also streaming services. It’s a key feature that helps make longer cardio sessions feel much shorter.
How the Built-in Screens Work
High-end NordicTrack treadmills like the Commercial series come with a full HD touchscreen. This screen is powered by an Android-based operating system. It’s not just for iFit trainer-led workouts. Think of it like a tablet attached to your treadmill. You can acces popular streaming apps directly from the console.
- The screen requires a Wi-Fi connection to stream content.
- You’ll need your own subscriptions to services like Netflix or Hulu.
- Some models even support screen mirroring from your phone.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Streaming Apps
Getting your favorite show to play is straightforward. Here’s how to do it.
- Connect your treadmill to your home Wi-Fi network during the initial setup.
- On the main console menu, navigate to the “Extra” or “Entertainment” section.
- Select the app you want to install, like YouTube or Disney+.
- Log into your personal account for that service.
- Choose your show and start your workout. The controls will be on the screen.
Remember, the treadmill’s speed and incline controls are always accessible, usually on the side of the screen. You can adjust them without interrupting your video.
What If Your Treadmill Doesn’t Have a Smart Screen?
Older or more basic NordicTrack models might have a simpler console. But you can still watch TV. You just need a different setup. The easiest method is to use a separate device.
- Place a tablet or smartphone on the console’s media shelf.
- Use a wall-mounted TV in front of your treadmill.
- Consider a small, portable projector for a bigger veiw.
For these setups, you’ll want to make sure your device is secure. A good tablet holder is a wise investment to prevent accidents.
Using Bluetooth Speakers for Better Audio
Treadmill motors and fans can be noisy. The built-in speakers sometimes struggle. For clearer audio, pair your treadmill or your separate device with Bluetooth headphones or a speaker. This creates a much more immersive experience. You won’t have to crank the volume to unsafe levels.
iFit: More Than Just TV
While watching regular TV is great, the iFit membership offers its own engaging content. It’s a major part of the NordicTrack experience. iFit trainers lead you through scenic runs all over the world. The screen displays the location as the treadmill auto-adjusts incline and decline. It’s interactive entertainment built for fitness.
- Thousands of on-demand workout videos.
- Global workouts with automatic trainer control.
- Challenges and structured training plans.
Important Considerations Before You Stream
There are a few practical things to keep in mind to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Internet Connection Strength
Buffering during a run is frustrating. Your treadmill should be within good range of your Wi-Fi router. If the signal is weak in your home gym, think about using a Wi-Fi extender. A stable connection is essential for high-definition video without pauses.
Subscription Costs
Be aware of the seperate costs. The iFit membership is a monthly or yearly fee. Your Netflix, Hulu, or other app subscriptions are additional. Factor these into the overall cost of owning the treadmill.
Safety First
Always prioritize safety. Keep the volume at a level where you can hear your surroundings. Make sure any cords from external devices are managed and out of the way. Pay attention to your form and the treadmill’s speed, even when your are engrossed in a show.
Troubleshooting Common Playback Issues
Sometimes, things don’t work perfectly. Here are quick fixes for common problems.
- App Won’t Load: Restart the treadmill console by holding the power button.
- Poor Video Quality: Check your internet speed on the treadmill’s browser.
- No Sound: Verify the audio output source in the settings menu.
- Frozen Screen: Perform a soft reset on the console.
If problems persist, consulting NordicTrack’s customer support or online forums can help. Often, a simple software update is the solution.
Making the Most of Your Workouts
Watching TV can be a powerful tool for consistency. It’s a technique called distraction, and it works. By associating treadmill time with an episode of your favorite series, you’re more likely to look forward to it. Just try to balance passive watching with active iFit workouts for variety and structured training.
Set a goal to only watch a certain show while exercising. This creates a positive reward system that gets you on the machine regularly. Before you know it, you’ll be reaching your fitness goals without even focusing on the clock.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Can all NordicTrack treadmills play TV?
Not all. Only models with a smart, touchscreen display can run streaming apps directly. Basic models with smaller monochrome consoles cannot, but you can use an external device.
Do you need iFit to watch Netflix?
No. iFit and Netflix are separate services. You need an iFit membership for trainer-led workouts and a Netflix subscription for Netflix content. Both can be used on the same screen.
Is there a extra fee to use streaming apps?
NordicTrack does not charge a fee to access the app platform. However, you are responsible for the monthly costs of any streaming services you choose to log into, like Hulu or Amazon Prime Video.
Can you watch live TV on a NordicTrack?
Yes, if you have a streaming app that offers live TV, like YouTube TV or Hulu Live, you can watch it through that app on compatible treadmill models. A traditional cable box connection is not possible.
What if my treadmill’s screen seems to small?
For a larger view, you can use the screen mirroring feature (if your model has it) to cast to a nearby smart TV. Alternatively, you can simply ignore the built-in screen and use a wall-mounted TV as your primary screen instead.