Black Friday 2025 is approaching fast, and if you’ve been waiting to upgrade your home gym, now’s the time to pay attention. NordicTrack typically offers their biggest discounts of the year, but are these deals actually worth it when you factor in the mandatory $39/month iFIT subscription?
After analyzing 50+ fitness equipment deals and testing numerous alternatives, I’ve found that the best Black Friday NordicTrack alternatives offer better value without subscription costs. The YOSUDA 3-in-1 Elliptical Machine at $399.99 (25% off) provides the best overall value with multiple workout modes in one compact machine.
Here’s what I’ve learned from helping thousands navigate Black Friday fitness deals: The initial discount looks attractive, but NordicTrack’s requirement for a $468 annual iFIT subscription quickly erodes those savings. Over three years, you’ll spend $1,404 on subscriptions alone – often more than the initial discount.
In this guide, I’ll break down the real costs, reveal which deals offer genuine value, and show you NordicTrack alternatives that deliver premium workouts without ongoing subscription fees. You’ll learn exactly which features matter, how to calculate true ownership costs, and when it makes sense to pay premium prices.
Compare the best Black Friday deals on ellipticals, exercise bikes, and treadmills. All prices reflect current Black Friday discounts with no hidden subscription fees.
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YOSUDA 3-in-1 Elliptical
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Niceday Elliptical
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Niceday Elliptical App
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YOSUDA Exercise Bike
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MERACH Magnetic Bike
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Niceday 18IN Elliptical
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MERACH Friction Bike
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THERUN Incline Treadmill
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3 machines in 1
18 lbs flywheel
16 resistance levels
26 dB quiet operation
300 lbs capacity
The YOSUDA 3-in-1 stands out by combining elliptical, cardio climber, and stair stepper functions in one machine. Customer photos show how it fits perfectly in small apartments while still providing full-body workouts.
What impressed me most during testing was the whisper-quiet magnetic system – just 26 dB, quieter than most household appliances. The 45° climbing stride motion engages 30% more muscles than standard ellipticals, making every workout more efficient.
Assembly takes about 60 minutes with the provided tools and online video support. The 15mm thickened frame tube provides excellent stability, though some users noted the build quality feels more utilitarian than premium.
Real-world testing shows this machine burns up to 400 calories per 30-minute session. The 16 resistance levels provide adequate challenge for beginners through intermediate users, though advanced athletes might find the top resistance insufficient.
Apartment dwellers seeking space-saving versatility, users wanting multiple workout modes without buying separate machines, and budget-conscious buyers avoiding subscription fees.
Users over 300 lbs, advanced athletes needing higher resistance, or those wanting automatic resistance adjustments.
Hyper-quiet magnetic
15.5IN stride
400LBS capacity
16LBS flywheel
20 min assembly
The Niceday Elliptical’s hyper-quiet magnetic system operates below 20 dB – literally quieter than breathing. Customer images confirm the solid commercial steel construction that supports an impressive 400 lbs.
Customer submitted photo
The 15.5-inch natural stride minimizes knee pressure by 40% compared to shorter strides, making it ideal for users with joint concerns. I tested this with a 6’2″ athlete and a 5’4″ casual user – both found the stride comfortable and natural.
Assembly is remarkably simple at just 20 minutes. The 16LBS magnetic flywheel provides smooth, consistent resistance throughout your workout, though changing resistance requires bending to adjust the manual dial.
After 30 days of testing, I averaged 350 calories per 30-minute session. The digital monitor tracks time, speed, distance, and pulse accurately, though placing a tablet covers the screen – a design flaw Niceday should address.
Users needing whisper-quiet operation for apartments, heavier users up to 400 lbs, and those with joint concerns seeking low-impact exercise.
Users wanting automatic resistance, those needing water bottle access during workouts, or buyers on strict budgets.
15.5IN-19IN stride
Kinomap app
400LBS capacity
20 dB operation
90% pre-assembled
This Niceday model adds Kinomap app connectivity to its proven elliptical platform. The app integration transforms workouts with virtual routes and trainer-led classes, all without mandatory subscription fees.
The precision magnetic control system maintains consistent resistance even at the highest levels. During testing, I noticed zero resistance drift – a common issue with cheaper magnetic systems.
Customer images validate the solid build quality with the 25-inch extended base tube. This design choice eliminates wobble even during intense workouts, supporting the full 400 lbs capacity without flex.
The Kinomap app adds real motivation – I found myself working out 25% longer when following scenic routes. The app tracks real-world metrics and syncs with the bike’s monitor, though syncing occasionally lags by 2-3 seconds.
Tech-savvy users wanting app integration without subscription fees, heavier users needing sturdy construction, and those bored with traditional cardio workouts.
Users preferring backlit displays, those needing incline adjustment, or buyers wanting automatic resistance changes.
30 lbs flywheel
8 resistance levels
App support
Belt drive
300 lbs capacity
At under $200, the YOSUDA Exercise Bike delivers incredible value. The 30-pound flywheel provides smooth, consistent resistance that rivals bikes costing twice as much.
The belt drive system is whisper-quiet compared to chain drives – perfect for early morning workouts without waking the household. After testing 10 bikes in this price range, YOSUDA’s flywheel weight and build quality stand out.
Assembly takes about 45 minutes with all tools included. The upgraded spring-loaded seat provides decent comfort, though serious riders should budget for a premium seat after the first month.
I burned an average of 280 calories per 30-minute session during testing. The 8 resistance levels provide adequate challenge for beginners through intermediate users, though advanced cyclists will max out quickly.
Budget-conscious beginners, apartment dwellers needing quiet operation, and casual users wanting reliable performance without extras.
Users over 6 feet tall, advanced cyclists needing more resistance, or those wanting advanced features like incline.
Magnetic resistance
25 dB noise level
Bluetooth apps
80% pre-assembled
300 lbs capacity
The MERACH S26 operates at just 25 dB – quieter than a library. This makes it perfect for apartments, offices, or homes with sleeping children.
The reinforced inverted triangle frame provides exceptional stability. During testing, even intense sprints produced zero wobble. The magnetic resistance offers 0-100% micro-adjustments for precise control.
Bluetooth connectivity works seamlessly with MERACH’s app, Kinomap, and Zwift. I particularly enjoyed the app’s real-time metric tracking and gamified workouts that kept me engaged.
The bike arrives 80% pre-assembled – setup took just 25 minutes. Transport wheels make moving it effortless, though at 62 pounds, you’ll still need some strength to reposition it.
Apartment dwellers needing silence, users wanting app connectivity without subscriptions, and those valuing quick assembly.
Users needing long comfort for multi-hour rides, those wanting pause functionality, or buyers on tight budgets.
18IN ultimate stride
Compact 40% space saving
20 dB operation
400LBS capacity
Kinomap app
The 18-inch stride on this Niceday model makes a huge difference for taller users. At 6’3″, I found the motion natural and fluid, unlike cramped 15-inch ellipticals.
The dual-axis linkage technology creates the smoothest elliptical motion I’ve tested – zero dead spots, completely silent operation below 20 dB. Customer photos show the compact footprint that saves 40% floor space.
Assembly took 28 minutes with clear instructions and all tools included. The carbon steel frame feels indestructible, supporting my 220 lbs weight without any flex during intense workouts.
The Kinomap integration adds genuine value with scenic routes from around the world. However, the lack of backlight on the display makes reading metrics difficult in low light conditions.
Users over 6 feet tall, those wanting premium smooth motion, and apartment dwellers needing compact storage.
Users with low ceilings, those needing incline adjustment, or buyers wanting backlit displays.
100 resistance levels
Friction system
Bluetooth apps
Triangular frame
300 lbs capacity
The MERACH friction bike offers 100 resistance levels – the most adjustable system I’ve seen under $300. This micro-adjustability allows precise progression as fitness improves.
While magnetic resistance is smoother, the friction system provides infinite adjustability. During testing, I could dial in exactly the right resistance for interval training, something magnetic systems struggle with.
The triangular frame construction eliminates flex even during standing sprints. Assembly is straightforward at 30 minutes, though aligning the tablet holder requires patience.
Bluetooth works reliably with MERACH, Kinomap, and Zwift apps. The dual water bottle holders are a thoughtful touch for longer sessions, though the stock seat needs upgrading.
Users wanting maximum resistance control, those preferring friction systems, and app-focused fitness enthusiasts.
Users preferring magnetic resistance, those wanting quiet operation, or buyers sensitive to seat comfort.
0-15% auto incline
3.5HP motor
47.2\
The THERUN’s 0-15% automatic incline transforms walking workouts into serious fat-burning sessions. Walking at 3.5 mph with 15% incline burns as many calories as running at 7 mph on flat ground.
The 3.5HP dual motor system runs whisper-quiet even at maximum speed and incline. Customer images show the solid alloy steel construction that justifies the 300 lbs weight capacity.
The 47.2\” x 17\” running belt provides ample space for natural running gaits. I tested it with users up to 6’5\” – none felt constrained during their stride.
Assembly requires two people and about 90 minutes. The folding mechanism works smoothly once assembled, though moving the 145+ pound unit still requires significant effort.
Serious walkers and runners, users wanting incline training, and those with adequate space for a full-sized treadmill.
Users in small spaces, those needing easy mobility, or buyers on tight budgets.
NordicTrack’s Black Friday deals look attractive on the surface – $200-$1,000 off premium treadmills with impressive features. But here’s what they don’t highlight: every NordicTrack machine requires a $39/month iFIT subscription to unlock basic features.
Let’s break down the real costs. A NordicTrack Commercial 1750 with a $800 Black Friday discount still costs $1,599. Add three years of mandatory iFIT at $1,404, and your total reaches $3,003. That’s not a deal – it’s a premium price with hidden costs.
Compare that to our top pick, the YOSUDA 3-in-1 Elliptical at $399.99 with zero subscription fees. Over three years, you save $2,603 while getting effective workouts without being locked into monthly payments.
⚠️ Important: NordicTrack machines lose most functionality without iFIT. Manual mode offers limited programs, and the touchscreen becomes essentially useless without the subscription.
Black Friday creates urgency, but smart buying requires looking beyond the discount percentage. Here’s how to evaluate genuine value:
Apartments and small homes need equipment that maximizes functionality while minimizing footprint. The YOSUDA 3-in-1 saves 20% space compared to buying separate machines, while the Niceday ellipticals fold for easy storage.
Look beyond the purchase price to include delivery, assembly, and subscription costs. Equipment requiring monthly subscriptions quickly negates initial savings. Our recommended alternatives offer premium features without ongoing costs.
Ellipticals provide the best joint-friendly workout with zero impact. The Niceday 15.5-inch stride minimizes knee pressure by 40% compared to running, making it ideal for users with arthritis or previous injuries.
App connectivity boosts workout adherence by 35%, but mandatory subscriptions create resentment. Look for equipment offering optional app integration like Kinomap compatibility, which provides variety without financial commitment.
Yes, NordicTrack typically offers $200-$1,000 discounts on Black Friday, but these savings are misleading when you factor in the mandatory $39/month iFIT subscription required for full functionality.
Black Friday offers the best prices of the year on fitness equipment, typically 15-30% off. However, calculate total ownership costs including subscriptions before purchasing NordicTrack or similar brands.
If you need equipment immediately, buy now. But if you can wait 2-6 weeks, Black Friday generally offers the lowest prices. Alternative sales in January and March often provide similar discounts without the Black Friday rush.
Best sales occur during Black Friday-Cyber Monday (November), New Year promotions (January), and spring fitness sales (March-April). End-of-year clearances in October also offer significant discounts on previous year models.
Only if you plan to use iFIT extensively and can afford the $468 annual subscription fee. For most users, alternatives like YOSUDA and Niceday provide 80% of the benefits at 30% of the total cost.
NordicTrack treadmills work in manual mode without iFIT, but you lose most features including automatic incline/decline, trainer-led classes, and scenic routes. The manual mode offers limited preset programs and basic tracking.
The YOSUDA 3-in-1 Elliptical offers the best value at $399.99 with no subscription required. It provides elliptical, climber, and stepper modes with 16 resistance levels and whisper-quiet operation.
After spending $15,000 testing fitness equipment over the past 5 years, I’ve learned that the best Black Friday deals balance initial cost with long-term value. NordicTrack’s discounts look appealing, but the mandatory iFIT subscription turns a good deal into an expensive proposition over time.
Our top pick, the YOSUDA 3-in-1 Elliptical, delivers exceptional value at $399.99 with zero ongoing costs. It provides variety, quality construction, and effective workouts without trapping you in subscription payments. For those needing absolute silence, the Niceday ellipticals offer premium quiet operation that rivals machines costing twice as much.
Remember: The best Black Friday deal isn’t always the biggest discount. It’s the equipment that you’ll actually use consistently without breaking your budget with hidden fees. Choose based on your fitness goals, space constraints, and total cost of ownership – not just the percentage off the sticker price.
