iFit is a popular fitness platform that offers interactive workout experiences through its subscription-based service. iFit is found on most of today’s major cardio brand machines and is the most popular interactive training app out there.
Many fitness enthusiasts in the market for a new treadmill or other cardio gear wonder whether they need to subscribe to iFit to use their new iFit-enabled machine.
In this article, we’ll take a look at iFit-enabled machines and answer two questions:
Is iFit worth the money?
Do you have to subscribe to iFit to use an iFit enable machine?
Do You Have to Subscribe to iFit to Use an iFit Enables Machine?
No, you are not required to subscribe to iFit to use an iFit-enabled cardio machine. Every feature, with the exception of guided iFit training, will work without adding an extra monthly expense—some companies like ProForm and Nordic Track offer select machines free with an iFit subscription.
Understanding iFit-Enabled Machines
iFit-enabled machines, such as treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes, come equipped with built-in screens and connectivity options that allow users to access various features and workout programs offered by iFit.
These machines provide an interactive and immersive workout experience, enhancing motivation and engagement for users.
Non-iFit Features of iFit-Enabled Machines
When using an iFit-enabled machine, several features are available to users, even without an iFit subscription:
Basic Workout Tracking
iFit-enabled machines offer basic workout tracking functionalities such as distance covered, time elapsed, speed, calories burned, and heart rate monitoring. These metrics provide valuable feedback to users and help them track their progress over time.
Manual Workout Mode
Users can adjust the machine’s speed, incline, or resistance levels to customize their workout experience. This allows for flexibility and personalization in training sessions.
It also allows for all-important tracking. It’s hard to make improvement goals over time without knowing the details of your training session.
Basic Pre-Programmed Workouts
iFit-enabled machines often have various pre-programmed workouts catering to different fitness goals and preferences. These workouts are designed to challenge users and offer diverse training options.
Whether it’s a hill climb simulation or an interval training session, these programs add variety and excitement to the workout routine.
Remember that these are automatic, data-driven workouts without interaction with the screen or a trainer.
Connectivity Options
iFit-enabled machines are typically equipped with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allowing users to connect their devices and stream their content, such as music or videos, while working out.
This feature lets users enjoy their favorite entertainment or listen to motivational playlists during exercise sessions. In other words, your screen is still very useful even without a subscription!
The Role of an iFit Subscription
While the features above can be accessed without an iFit subscription, it’s significant to note that the main selling point of iFit is its interactive and guided workout programs. With an iFit subscription, users access a vast library of trainer-led workouts, scenic routes worldwide, and personalized coaching.
The role of an iFit subscription is the exact same role a personal trainer plays in your fitness journey, just in the comfort of your own home!
If you are the type of person who has trouble self-motivating or pushing as hard as you should, this type of interaction is invaluable.
The Benefits of an iFit Subscription
While some of you will immediately understand the benefit of having a virtual trainer leading you through every workout, some may not. If you’ve never had a coach or trainer, you may not be familiar with how much of an impact they can make!
Here are some of the high points of having an iFit subscription.
Trainer-Led Workouts
iFit offers a range of trainer-led workout programs across various disciplines, including running, cycling, strength training, and yoga. These workouts are led by certified trainers who provide real-time guidance and motivation, simulating the experience of having a personal trainer.
Users can follow along with the trainers as they demonstrate proper form and technique, ensuring effective and safe workouts.
Scenic Routes and Virtual Workouts
With iFit, users can virtually explore scenic locations worldwide, immersing themselves in stunning landscapes as they follow along with the workouts.
Whether running through the streets of Paris or cycling along the beaches of Hawaii, these virtual routes provide an engaging and visually captivating experience. Users can feel transported to different destinations, adding an element of adventure and novelty to their exercise routine.
This is, by far, my favorite feature of iFit! When jogging through different cities worldwide, you almost forget you are working out! The time goes by so much faster than staring at a numeric readout or getting lost in Netflix shows.
This feature makes me use my treadmill at least twice as much as if I didn’t!
Personalized Coaching
iFit utilizes user data and feedback to provide personalized workout recommendations and coaching tips. By analyzing performance, heart rate, and workout history, iFit tailors workout plans to individual needs and goals.
This personalized approach helps users achieve their fitness objectives more effectively and efficiently.
Free Cardio Machines!!!
You read that right: companies like ProForm and Nordic Track offer free cardio machines with multi-year iFit memberships*.
This is a fantastic deal. Since it’s recommended that you subscribe to iFit anyway, you might as well get a free treadmill or elliptical, or bike out of the deal while you’re at it, right?
Here is a short list with links to some of the machines offered for free with an iFit subscription at the time I am writing this article:
- Nordic Track C1100i treadmill
- Nordic Track S10i studio bike
- Nordic Track RW700 rower
- ProForm Carbon T7 treadmill
- ProForm Carbon E10 elliptical
- ProForm Studio Bike Pro
- ProForm Carbon HIIT H10
- ProForm Pro R10 rower
*Typically, Nordic Track requires a 4-year iFit membership, while ProForm requires a 3-year plan.
If you aren’t sure about which cardio machine is right for you, we have you covered with these resources:
The Verdict
In conclusion, subscribing to iFit is not a requirement to use an iFit-enabled machine. Basic features such as workout tracking, manual mode, pre-programmed workouts, and connectivity options can be accessed without an additional monthly expense.
However, subscribing to iFit offers many interactive features, including trainer-led workouts, scenic routes, and personalized coaching. If you are serious about your results, an iFit subscription is a must!!!
Whether you use an iFit subscription or not, an iFit-enabled machine provides a versatile and engaging platform to enhance your fitness journey.
FAQ
Can I use an iFit-enabled machine without an internet connection?
Yes, you can still use an iFit-enabled machine without an internet connection. While some features like accessing trainer-led workouts and scenic routes require an internet connection, the basic functionalities of your machine, such as manual mode, pre-programmed workouts, and workout tracking, can be used offline.
However, an internet connection is needed to experience the interactive features and benefits of iFit fully.
How much does an iFit subscription cost?
The cost of an iFit subscription varies depending on the plan you choose.
At the time I’m writing this (May 2023), iFit offers two primary subscription options: monthly and annual. The monthly subscription typically ranges from $15 to $39 per month, depending on the promotional offers and the duration of the commitment.
The annual subscription offers cost savings and may range from $180 to $396 per year. It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change. You can see iFit’s current pricing here.
Can I use iFit on my mobile device or tablet?
Yes, iFit is a mobile app that can be downloaded on compatible iOS and Android devices.
This allows you to access iFit workouts, track progress, and enjoy the platform’s features on your mobile device or tablet. The app provides a convenient way to take your workouts on the go and access iFit content even if you don’t have an iFit-enabled machine.
Can I use an iFit subscription on multiple machines?
Yes, an iFit subscription can be used on multiple machines.
If you have multiple iFit-enabled machines in your household, you can use the same iFit account and subscription across those machines. This allows multiple users to access the benefits of iFit and enjoy the interactive workouts and features on different machines without the need for separate subscriptions.
It’s important to note that some manufacturers may have restrictions or additional charges for using iFit on multiple machines. So, checking with the specific manufacturer or iFit customer support is advisable for detailed information regarding multi-machine usage.
Can you cancel and restart your iFit membership?
Yes! If you pay monthly, you can stop the service and restart it later. This comes in handy in a lot of applications. When canceling a monthly plan, you can access your iFit account until the end of the month you canceled.
If you have paid for your membership annually, you can cancel for a full refund within 30 days. After that, your iFit membership cannot be refunded. You can see all of their terms of membership here.
We have an iFit subscription. I don’t use it, but my husband loves it. It really is a personal thing.
You are 100% correct! I recommend that if people are unsure, make use of the free trial that comes with most machines.
We waited to subscribe for a long time, but during the pandemic, we spent more time working out. At that point we decided to get iFit and our only regret is not doing it sooner. It makes running so much more enjoyable. The runs through the streets of Italy are my favorite! The time flies and the trainers are really engaging. If anyone is on the fence, it’s totally worth it!
I haven’t tried Italy yet, I’ll have to look! My personal favorite is the forests of the Pacific NW. Such beautiful nature that you just don’t see anywhere else!
We got this for a free trial when we bought our rower. We used to have a Concept2, which doesn’t have a very nice screen. When we started using our new machine, we didn’t use iFit, but our daughter did. She kept telling us to try it, so we did. My husband isn’t a fan, but my daughter and I use it every day.
Great feedback! It’s def not for everyone, but everyone I know that’s tried it likes it to some degree. And yeah, that’s one of the biggest reasons I don’t recommend the Concept rowers. I can’t believe they still don’t offer better displays!
I need help with my treadmill it is not able to control it because it is looping.
I have heart issues and must have cardio!!!!
You should call your treadmill company for service.
Hello I purchased a rower over a year ago and was not able to use try the free ifit as I had no internet available and also had knee surgery . I have recently been connected to interment not sure as to how great it is yet and ready to test the new knees , but wanted to know if the free ifit would trial would still be available to me
You would need to check with iFit directly. I think they changed their policy recently, but since I don’t work for them don’t know for sure.