The NordicTrack CX650 elliptical trainer is not only a great looking machine, it's also a great machine to train with. It has everything we've come to expect from the Nordictrack brand in recent years.

The big bonus with this model has to be the iFit Workout Card Technology. These are specifically designed programmes on a card, similar to a digital camera card, to help you achieve whatever your fitness goal may be. Not only do they control the machine to take you through a series of levels of difficulty, it will also talk to you! You recieve step-by-step instructions via the built-in speakers on the console.

The CX650 comes with 5 Personal Trainer workouts that work on aerobic fitness, weight loss, or performance goals. There are also two heart rate controlled programmes that help you stay in the fat-burning zone by matching the machine's resistance to your pulse, if it slows down it increases the resistance, if it gets too high it will lower it - so it does have a heart :0)

You can measure your pulse using the grips next to the console. More expensive models also have sensors in the training handles but with this model you have to take your hands off to hold the grips to track your pulse.

The CX650 has a good stride length of 18 inches with a very smooth action and large non-slip pedals, although non-adjustable. If you get a bit warm during your workout it has a fan in the console, although it has to be said it's not that effective.

The Console/ Display Unit
The console (see left) has a backlit colour LCD display and was clear and easy to read. The slot for the iFit Workout cards is on the front - circled left. You can see your speed, time per session, distance travelled, calories burnt, a carb gram counter and your pulse rate.

From our experience of working with many clients knowing this information can help when you're getting tired. To see how many calories you've burnt and how far you've gone can inspire you to keep going to the end of your programme. The one touch buttons to change resistance is a nice touch as this saves you having to scroll through the settings whilst trying to do a manual workout or override an automatic programme - you have 10 resistance levels to choose from.

Practical Information
This is a foldable trainer so if space is a little tight you can reduce its length and slide it away out of sight. The folding mechanism is well-designed so it was easy to operate. Moving the machine around is pretty straight forward thanks to the built-in transport wheels fitted at the front, it can be moved either folded or fully extended.

Ease of portability can be a major factor in choosing a trainer because if you're not feeling too motivated to train, the thought of struggling to get your trainer into place may be enough to put you off! If it's easy you've got no excuse :0)

Pros: iFit Workout Cards, variation of programmes, good stride length, stylish, the folding mechanism.

Cons: No heart rate sensors in the workout handles.

Our score : 8.5 ( out of 10 ) An excellent trainer with some great features.


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