NordicTrack C 990 Treadmill Review

The C 990 packs a punch with a powerful 3.0 CHP motor – something that most treadmills in this price range do not have. The motor has dual cooling fans, high quality wiring and insulation, and a thermal cut-off switch. It is also very smooth and silent, even at the highest speeds.

The patented FlexSelect cushioning technology allows you to change the running surface depending on your preference. If you love the comfort of indoor running, you can turn the cushioning on and train on a smooth, cushioned surface that reduces impact and protects your joints.

If you enjoy the challenges of outdoor running, you can turn the cushioning off and train on a firm, hard surface.

So you get to choose your own workout experience.

The 20″ x 60″ tread belt offers plenty of space for you to train comfortably.

The less expensive model in the series – the C 700 – only has a 20″ x 55″ belt.

The extra five inches of space available on this belt will definitely benefit taller people with longer strides.

The machine also features a 2.5” roller, which is one of the largest in this price range. This is a marked improvement from previous models, which only had a 1.9” roller.

A bigger roller prevents slippage, lowers the noise level, reduces wear and tear, and extends the life of the tread belt.

The NordicTrack C 990 comes with 32 preloaded workout programs divided into five categories – calorie, intensity, incline, speed, and heart rate.

The machine also allows you to create your own goal-based workouts. You can set specific heart rate parameters based on your fitness goals and the machine will adjust the speed and incline automatically to make sure you stay in the right heart rate zone.

This is an excellent feature which allows you to train smart and reach your goals faster.

The machine is also iFit Coach compatible. If you have an iFit subscription, you can add a whole new dimension to your workout routine. You can download personalized workout programs and choose your favorite running trail or a world famous terrain from the HD video library or Google Maps. The treadmill will change the incline to match the terrain you choose.

NordicTrack is known for its ‘more for less’ approach of stacking its budget treadmills with plenty of features and the C 990 is no exception. The machine is absolutely packed with features that you will not find in most treadmills in this price range.

The NordicTrack C 990 has a bright 7″ HD touch screen display (10″ on the top of the line C 1650), workout fan, an accessory tray, an integrated tablet holder, and an iPod compatible music system.

It comes with a built-in iFit module. It also allows you to use a wireless chest strap for accurate, hands-free measurement of your heart rate.

Moreover, the OneTouch controls make it extremely easy for you to use the machine, even if you are a first time user. You can change the incline, increase or decrease the speed, and choose workout programs instantly at the touch of a button.

The unique SpaceSaver design allows you to fold the treadmill into a vertical position when not in use.

The C 990 allows you to use a Bluetooth based wireless tool for heart rate training, but you have to buy it separately.

With some NordicTrack treadmills, the chest strap is included as part of the package. But this is certainly not a deal breaker.

Other than that, it’s very hard to find any negatives with this treadmill. It has just about everything you could ever ask for.

The NordicTrack C 990 has a powerful motor for a budget treadmill and has a longer running track than most treadmills in its class.

It is ergonomically designed and very easy to use. It is definitely a good choice for anyone who is looking for a dependable treadmill at an affordable price.

You can take a look at the NordicTrack C 990 treadmill on the company site to get the best deals and compare it to other models you may be interested in.

If you prefer a bigger screen and a more powerful motor, check out the C 1650 model as well.