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Blog about Fitness, Exercise and Exercise Equipment
The following treadmill reviews are synthesized from ConsumerSearch who look at numerous reviews and make their ananysis of the top treadmills in various categories.
Best mid-range folding treadmill.
According to treadmill reviews, the Sole F80 is the best in this price range, with a strong warranty (20 years on the motor, five years on parts and two years labor), as well as options that are comparable to more expensive treadmills. The Sole has a 335-pound weight capacity, and its 55" x 20" running surface is longer than other treadmills in its price class. It has six programs, plus speed and incline controls on the armrests, and both handgrip and chest-strap pulse sensors. The Sole treadmill folds up for storage. The Sole F80 is best for walkers who want to try the occasional run, but it won't take the same pounding as a more expensive treadmill.
Budget treadmill for walking.
The Image 19.0R, along with other inexpensive treadmills, has only a 90-day parts and labor warranty -- the shortest in the industry. Even so, reviews say the Image treadmill is fine if your fitness plans only include walking. This treadmill has a wider 19" belt and a stronger motor (2.8 horsepower with a ten-year motor warranty) than some other budget models. Even so, regular walkers and runners will need a more durable treadmill. It folds up for storage and comes with a handgrip heart-rate sensor. The Image treadmill has a user weight limit of 300 pounds. (compare prices)
Best treadmill for running.
The Life Fitness is a favorite of professional runners for its shock-absorbing deck and customizable controls. This treadmill can also save user data and favorite workouts for several family members. Its 58" x 20" running surface is long enough and wide enough for most runners and its 3.0-hp motor is smooth and quiet. An included heart-rate monitor works in conjunction with special programs to keep you in your heart-rate zone. It has a high 400-pound user weight limit, and is backed by a lifetime frame warranty with ten years on the motor, five years on other parts and one year labor.
Runner's treadmill with negative incline.
Reviews say the PaceMaster Platimum Pro VR is unique in that it has a negative incline (down to a -3.0 grade) -- helpful for runners who want to strengthen the fronts of their legs by simulating downhill running. Some testers say this treadmill is helpful in preparing for hilly races like the Boston Marathon. The PaceMaster's Constant Effort Compensation mode adjusts speed to keep your exertion level constant. It has a 3.0-hp motor, a long 60" x 20" belt and a 400-pound weight limit. The PaceMaster Platinum Pro VR is one of the few treadmills still made in the U.S.
Best treadmill for pros.
Reviews say that this sturdy, well-built Landice treadmill feels like one of the commercial treadmills you'd find in a health club. The Landice can take a real pounding from serious runners. Like the PaceMaster Platinum Pro VR, a 400-pound weight capacity ensures that pretty much anyone can use it. Reviews also give the Landice L7 high marks for ergonomics and build quality, backed by a lifetime warranty on all parts. If you're looking for a quiet treadmill, reviews say the 3.0-hp motor is smooth and discreet. This treadmill has a larger footprint for stability, so you'll need plenty of floor space for the L7. (compare prices)
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![]() New Balance Treadmill NB1500 US $700.00 |
![]() Precor Commercial C966i Treadmill 966i US $1,899.00
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![]() Life Fitness T5i Treadmill lifefitness t5 w HR US $1,299.00
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![]() WESLO CADENCE 340 CS TREADMILL PICKUP PHILLY AREA US $149.99
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![]() Treadmill Exerciser US $125.00
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![]() Reebok Exercise Treadmill w Incline 8000Es 319 US $195.00
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![]() Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill US $159.99
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![]() True Treadmill US $750.00
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| http://www.phpbay.com/affiliates/jrox.php?id=1715 |
Smooth Fitness has always been a strong contender at the $999 price range. The Smooth 5.45 treadmill is no exception. I rate it a "Best Buy" for being one of the most solid and durable machines at this price.
The 5.45 replaces the popular Smooth 5.25. Both have the same frame, motor and console, however, the Smooth 5.45 has a longer deck, offers better shock absorption and is more stable.
The reason why the $999 Smooth treadmills have been such a good value is not only due to the features, but also because of their reliability and durability. They are very low maintenance machines, which is an important consideration when shopping for a treadmill.
Current Incentives
• 2-Year Labor Warranty - If there is a problem with your Smooth 5.45 treadmill for the first two years, it is not your problem. The industry standard is typically 1-year coverage for labor. A $100 value.
• Save $100 on White Glove delivery with coupon code “Smoothassembly”. Treadmill is placed in the room of your choice and assembled. Normally $199, with coupon it is $99.
Most treadmills selling for around $1,000 are what I consider budget machines. Consequently, you have to be very selective in finding brands that have good service records.
Smooth 5.45 Treadmill Features...
20" x 55" Treadbelt - The Smooth 5.45 has a longer treadbelt than the 5.25. The 55" length of the belt is ideal for average height walkers and joggers.
2.5 HP Continuous Duty Motor - Smooth equips their treadmills with very reliable motors, and that is why they are backed with lifetime warranties. You can expect this motor to run smooth and reasonably quiet, even at higher speeds.
210 Lbs. Unit Weight - The Smooth 5.45 may be one of the heaviest treadmills at this price. The extra weight means you are getting a machine that is stable and feels solid. You'll find that some brands won't even list their unit weights, simple because they are lightweights that shift when jogging or with heavy users.
However, you don't want to have to move this treadmill. Since the standard free shipping is to the curb, opt for the inside delivery option. It is not that much more money.
Swing Arm Shock Absorption System - This patented shock absorption system reduces the impact to your ankles, knees, hips and back. It is built with two pivots in the front that absorbed the impact of your stride, while giving you a solid lift off towards the back of the deck. I've jogged on this deck, and it is definitely an improvement over the typical elastomers decks, which initially absorb the shock, but then bounce a portion of the impact.
LCD Console - Although the guts of the 5.45 treadmill are impressive, the LCD display is very basic, and changing the incline and speed requires scrolling up and down. On the other hand, it is very simple to use. You get six exercise programs and nine storable user profiles.
Warranty - As mentioned, the Smooth 5.45 treadmill comes with a lifetime motor warranty. You also get a 3-years parts and 1-year labor warranty. The 3-years parts coverage is above average.
Our Review - Smooth Fitness 5.45 Treadmill
With every new version of their entry treadmill, Smooth keeps on giving you a better value. With the Smooth 5.45, they took a proven design and beefed it up.
What makes this a value proposition, is the fact that the 5.45 is one of the most solid and durable machines for $1,000. This is not one of those throw away treadmills you get from the giant retailers.
Note: This treadmill is recommend for walkers and light joggers. Runners will want to upgrade.
Customer Reviews (This is on the Smooth 5.25, which is replaced by the 5.45.)
Solid, reliable, comfortable - I have owned and used the Smooth Fitness 5.25 Treadmill for about six months. I've had lower-cost treadmills, and you do get what you pay for. (Though I don't see that spending $3000 gains all that much.) This one is definitely worth the price. It's comfortable and stable, and a pleasure to use. My significant other and I put around 30 miles per week on it, so we're not heavy users like runners in training. We both use the power incline and vary the speed a lot.
________________________________________
I was hesitant to order a treadmill on line. The lack of variety in the local shopping lead me to research the treadmills on line and I did order this unit online. I'm glad I took the chance. This is a great treadmill. I have done some jogging, mostly walking. It compares with some of the treadmills at my local gym. I walk about 10 miles a week on it. So far so good. I paid the extra delivery charge and the box was put in the room I requested. It is a large, heavy box and the extra $49.00 was well worth it. my husband put it together in less than an hour. - Judy
Author: Kathryn Oneill
Buying a home treadmill? Treadmills are still the most popular choice among exercise equipment buyers today. Why do many people invest in a home treadmill? Here are 7 major benefits of buying your own home treadmill:
1) Burn more calories:
Treadmills burn more calories per hour than any other exercise machine. A study by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) showed that a vigorous workout on a treadmill burns around 700 calories, compared to 627 for stair climbers and 498 for stationary bikes.
Another study done by the Medical College of Wisconsin and the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee showed that calories burned on the treadmill for 60 minutes averaged 705 - 865, more than a stair machine, rowing machine or stationary bike.
2) Workout whenever you want:
With your own treadmill, you have the freedom to workout at any time of the day that you want. No waiting in the lines at the health club, no speeding to the gym to get in before 'the rush', no walking outside at night in the dark.
3) Wear whatever you want:
With a home treadmill you can wear whatever you want to workout. No worrying if your shorts match your T-shirt. No worrying if your shirt is too ragged or if your sweat pants are too loud.
4) Workout for as long as you want:
I don't know about you but I hate, hate, hate it when someone kicks me off the treadmill at the gym because my 'time is up'. With a home treadmill you have the freedom to go as long (or as little) as you want.
5) Get the body you've always wanted:
It's a fact: when it's convenient you'll exercise more. Which means you have the power to get the kind of body you've always wanted. Tighten those buns, tone those abs, say 'good bye' to that spare tire and 'hello' to a tiny waist with your own treadmill.
6) No more boredom:
How many times have you gone to the gym and been bored out of your mind within 10 minutes of your workout? With a home treadmill you can set it up in front of your TV and watch your favorite shows or movies.
Before you know it you'll have gone farther than you even realized - and burned more calories too. That means a better body in less time.
7) A simple way to exercise for those of us who aren't gym bunnies:
If you're not a muscle bound, 0% body fat gym bunny, a home treadmill is a simple, easy way to lose weight and stay in shape. Many people, for one reason or another, feel embarrassed by going to the gym. Consequently, they don't enjoy their gym workout and don't get the most out of it. Home treadmills are easy to use and simple to work for anyone, regardless of fitness level.
These are just a few benefits of owning your own home treadmill. Chances are you have your own reasons for wanting one.
Just remember that the seeds you sow today will be the rewards you reap tomorrow. Good luck and have fun!
Colder weather is approaching rapidly for those of who live in the northern regions of the United States. This is a good time to start thinking about alternatives to outdoor exercise. Perhaps it is time to invest in a treadmill, elliptical trainer, or exercise bike. I have not forgotten than many folks in all parts of the country simple prefer to exercise in the comfort of their own home.
To assist in your decision the blog will carry a series of articles on exercise equipment. The first of the series will provide a review of treadmills. The following is a synthesis of reviews by Consumer Search from reviews by Consumer Reports, Runners World, Prevention magazine and TreadmillDoctor.com.
There's a wide range of prices and quality among treadmills, with cheap models available in discount stores for as little as $300. But there's a world of difference between these cheap treadmills and the $1,000-and-up models recommended most often in professional reviews. The difference is aptly represented by the manufacturer's warranty. Treadmills costing less than $1,000, including the Epic 450MX and Image 19.0 (*est. $600) often come with just a 90-day warranty on parts and labor.
Spending more gets you much better warranty coverage. The Sole F80 (est $1500) has a service warranty that covers the deck, frame and motor for a lifetime, other parts for five years and labor for two years. Spending more for a treadmill like this will get you better insurance against breakdowns. This is important when you're considering fitness equipment that weighs 200 pounds or more, where a technician will need to come to your home for repairs.
Cheaper treadmills costing less than $1,000 not only carry shorter warranties, but most also don't perform as well in tests. While they may be lighter in weight, inexpensive treadmills can also be less stable, offer fewer features and have smaller and narrower belts. The Weslo Cadence G-25 (*est. $300), for example, is an ultra-compact treadmill. Its belt is just 43" x 13", compared to the 55" x 20" (or longer) belts found on other models. This means the outsides of your feet can never be more than 13 inches apart or you'll step on the side rails, and the 43-inch length will barely accommodate a walking stride. TreadmillDoctor.com editors say that treadmills in this price range have "cheap, cheap parts." They say the following about the Weslo G-25: "If you can keep this working for more than a workout or two at the 6 MPH top speed, contact us because we'll try to get your machine in the Smithsonian." While reviews say the Image 19.0 (*est. $600), another compact treadmill, should only be used for walking, at least it has a wider 19-inch belt. The Epic 450MX has a 20-inch belt. Even so, the warranty for both of these is only for 90 days, and there's a 300-pound weight limit on these machines, so they are inappropriate for heavier walkers.
Reviews say that with treadmills, you generally get what you pay for. Fitness experts recommend that serious runners start shopping for treadmills at the $2,000 mark, although less expensive treadmills are fine for walking. Editors at Runner's World agree; the best treadmills for running are priced over $2,000. For our report, we paid close attention to what reviews are recommending in the range of $1,000 to $2,000. That money should get you a good warranty with at least a full year of in-home labor coverage, plus better construction and more features than you'll find on cheap treadmills. Reviews suggest that frequent runners or households with more than one runner should consider spending even more.
Best treadmills, $1,000 to $2,000
In years past, we've seen good reviews for Smooth treadmills. Although we did not see as many reviews for them this year, we didn't find any evidence that their treadmills are not still good choices. This company's treadmills are sold mainly online, so one drawback is that you can't try them out in person. TreadmillDoctor.com says that since this company has grown so large so quickly, customer service has suffered. We did read a small number of complaints about unresponsive service at Epinions, but overall, owners seem happy with their treadmills.
The Smooth 5.25 (est $1000) is a standout in its price range. The display panel is highly readable, and it folds up to save space. The Smooth treadmill has six programs and a heart-rate monitor on the handgrip. At 52" x 20", the Smooth's belt is shorter than those on more expensive models, and it has a comparatively low 275-pound capacity. However, this treadmill is backed by a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, and five years on all other parts, with one-year in-home labor coverage. Reviews say this is a good-quality treadmill mainly for walking. Heavier individuals will need a treadmill with a higher weight limit, and taller people may need a longer belt.
The upgraded Smooth 6.25 (est $1600 is a better choice for occasional runners. This treadmill is a step up from the Smooth 5.25 (above) and has both a longer 54" x 20" belt and slightly more power, with a 2.75-hp motor. Like the Smooth 5.25, it folds for storage and has a handgrip heart-rate monitor (with optional chest strap), but it also has two more preset programs, for a total of eight. The relatively low weight capacity of 275 pounds makes this treadmill more appropriate for lighter runners.
TreadmillDoctor.com says the Sole F80 (est $1500) is "The best treadmill under $1,500" although we had a hard time finding it in stores for that price. The Sole F80 has a 55" x 20" belt, a bit longer than both Smooth treadmills above, and a higher 335-pound weight capacity. The Sole treadmill also folds for storage, and it has the useful feature of speed and incline controls on the side rails. It has a lifetime warranty on the frame, deck and motor, along with five years on other parts and an impressive two years on labor. It has six preset programs, a 2.5-hp motor and handgrip heart-rate monitor, with included chest strap. If you've stayed in a Hilton hotel recently, you might have used a Sole treadmill; Hilton now has in-room Sole treadmills in many of its hotels. This Sole treadmill has the best warranty in its price range.
We found some good reviews for Vision Fitness treadmills, but this manufacturer has been subject to a recent recall for some of its console panels, which could speed up unexpectedly. The Vision Fitness T9200 Simple (*est. $1,400) doesn't have a heart-rate monitor or any preset programs to help vary your workout. Vision Fitness does offer a lifetime warranty on the frame (with one-year labor), and the treadmill has a 325-pound weight limit. TreadmillDoctor.com says the T9200 is a good "starter" treadmill. One reviewer also recommends the step-up Vision Fitness T9500 Deluxe (*est. $2,000), which has an orthopedic belt to cushion your run.
The Bodyguard T240 (*est. $1,900) is cited as the best treadmill in the $1,500 to $2,000 range by TreadmillDoctor.com, though we did not see this brand tested elsewhere. The Bodyguard T240 has a 57" x 20" belt, a 350-pound weight limit and six programs, with an optional chest-strap heart-rate monitor. This treadmill's greatest strength, according to reviews, is its quality construction, which is backed by a superb warranty for this price range -- lifetime on the motor, ten years on parts and three years labor. This company also makes Polar heart-rate monitors.
We found a good review for the Keys Ironman 320t (est $1000) . TreadmillDoctor.com says the list price of $1,500 isn't very competitive, but we found this model pretty substantially discounted in stores. The folding Ironman treadmill has a 2.5-hp motor, an included chest-strap heart-rate monitor, handgrip pulse sensors and a 350-pound weight limit. The belt measures 56" x 20." The frame carries a lifetime warranty along with ten years on the motor, two years on other parts and a one-year labor warranty.
The Bowflex 7 series(est $1500) is made by Nautilus. Here again, TreadmillDoctor.com says this treadmill isn't much of a deal at its $2,000 list price, but we found it in several stores for about $500 less, making it a lot more appealing. We also found a couple dozen good reviews for this model at Amazon.com. The Bowflex has a large 60" x 20" belt. This folding treadmill has handgrip pulse sensors plus a heart-rate monitor, along with a 3-hp motor (good for this price range) and 300-pound user weight capacity. The frame has a 15-year warranty, along with ten years on the motor, two years on other parts and one year labor. If you can find it on sale, the Bowflex treadmill competes with the Sole F80. The Sole has a longer warranty period and slightly higher 335-pound weight limit, along with a 15 percent incline. The Bowflex has a larger 3-hp motor (2.5-hp on the Sole) and 5-inch longer belt, but a shorter warranty and 12 percent incline adjustment.
Budget Treadmills for Walking
The Image 19.0R, along with other inexpensive treadmills, has only a 90 day parts and labor warranty, the shortest in the industry. Even so, reviews say the Image treadmill is fine if your fitness plans only include walking. This treadmill has a wider 19 inch belt and a stronger motor (2.8 horsepower) than some other budget models. Even so, regular runners and walkers will need a more durable treadmill. It folds up for storage and comes with a handgrip heart-rate sensor. The Image treadmill has a user weight limit of 300 pounds.
Best Mid-Range Folding Treadmill
According to treadmill reviews, the Sole F80 is the best in this price range, with a strong warranty (20 years on the motor, five years on parts and two years labor), as well as options that are comparable to more expensive treadmills. The Sole has a 335-pound weight capacity, and its 55" x 20" running surface is longer than other treadmills in its price class. It has six programs, plus speed and incline controls on the armrests, and both handgrip and chest-strap pulse sensors. The Sole treadmill folds up for storage. The Sole F80 is best for walkers who want to try the occasional run, but it won't take the same pounding as a more expensive treadmill.
Best Treadmill for Running
The Life Fitness is a favorite of professional runners for its shock-absorbing deck and customizable controls. This treadmill can also save user data and favorite workouts for several family members. Its 58" x 20" running surface is long enough and wide enough for most runners and its 3.0-hp motor is smooth and quiet. An included heart-rate monitor works in conjunction with special programs to keep you in your heart-rate zone. It has a high 400-pound user weight limit, and is backed by a lifetime frame warranty with ten years on the motor, five years on other parts and one year labor.
Runner's treadmill with negative incline.
Reviews say the PaceMaster Platimum Pro VR is unique in that it has a negative incline (down to a -3.0 grade) -- helpful for runners who want to strengthen the fronts of their legs by simulating downhill running. Some testers say this treadmill is helpful in preparing for hilly races like the Boston Marathon. The PaceMaster's Constant Effort Compensation mode adjusts speed to keep your exertion level constant. It has a 3.0-hp motor, a long 60" x 20" belt and a 400-pound weight limit. The PaceMaster Platinum Pro VR is one of the few treadmills still made in the U.S.
Beat boredom with this 30-minute treadmill routine.
By Natalie Gingerich, Prevention
Spice up a humdrum treadmill routine and burn 60 percent more calories with this powerful butt and thigh shaper from Jackie Warner, owner of Sky Sport and Spa gym in Beverly Hills, Calif. A steep incline and manageable pace engage more leg muscle.
|
TIME |
EFFORT |
PACE |
|
0 – 5 Minutes |
Warm up at a comfortable pace |
3.0 – 3.5 mph |
|
5 – 7 Minutes |
Slow pace and bump incline to 15 percent. Take long lunging strides, bending front knee 45 – 90 degrees each time (keep front knee behind toes and, if needed, hold railing lightly for balance) |
2.5 – 3.0 mph |
|
7 – 9 minutes |
Lower incline to 1 percent and increase pace to a fast power walk |
4.0 - 5.0 mph |
|
9 -10 minutes |
Slow to a comfortable pace |
3.0 - 3.5 mph |
|
10 - 25 minutes |
Repeat minutes 5-10 three more times |
|
|
25 – 30 minutes |
Cool down at a comfortable pace |
3.0 - 3.5 mph |





US $1,899.00





