Motor

As a manual treadmill, this machine does not come with a motor. You will have to supply all the power when you ride the 98516. There are two advantages to this. First, the lack of a motor means the item is going to be significantly cheaper than its electronic competitors. Second, it offers the user greater control over speed and difficulty. If you want a more intense workout, you can simply speed up, rather than having to deal with programmed workouts or settings buttons.

Treadbelt

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill comes with a fixed incline that helps facilitate the spinning of the treadbelt. While this feature is necessary to make the spinning of the belt smoother, it leads to an uncomfortably difficult workout experience for some. If you prefer the relaxed pace of a manual treadmill on a low setting, the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill may not be ideal for you.

The running surface measures 41.5 x 13.5 inches. Compared to many other treadmills, this is rather small. Any tall exercisers, or those who prefer to take an extra long stride while jogging or running, may want to look at another product. Smaller running space is just one of the compromises you should expect to make when you buy a budget machine. If you just cannot stand to feel confined while running, you are going to have to step up into the higher price brackets.

Computer Monitor

While the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill is certainly not packed with technological features, it does come with a computer monitor. It displays the typical workout metrics, including distance traveled, time elapsed, speed, and calories burned. Two AA batteries are required to run the monitor, but they come in the box.

Monitor

Assembly and Storage

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill comes with few pieces and is very easy to assemble. One person should have no problem completing the task alone.

The easy folding design is definitely one of the best features on this machine. If you are dealing with limited space in your workout area, you will love how the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill folds down to dimensions of 22 x 21 x 50 inches.

Easy folding

Warranty

The frame is covered for up to one year; parts are covered for 90 days.

Dimensions

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill measures 46 x 21 x 50 when it is fully assembled. It can hold a maximum user weight of 250 pounds.

User Reviews

There are mixed reviews for this product. It has an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars from Amazon reviewers. While there are many users who feel that the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill has too many shortcomings, plenty others feel it offers a good value for the money. Users find the machine to be well constructed and capable of delivering a highly effective workout.

Any Complaints?

Some of the issues have already been mentioned. The treadbelt offers a relatively small running surface that is not ideal for taller users or people with a long stride. It also comes with a fixed incline that some users find to be difficult to exercise on.

Final Recommendation

The most important thing is to understand what you are getting into when you purchase the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill. It does not have the technological features that some users like to see. It also makes compromises on running surface and adjustability of the incline. If these issues do not concern you, you will benefit from the fact that this machine offers a highly effective workout for a small price. If you already know from experience that you do not mind working out on a manual treadmill, this product can offer you great value.

The post Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Motor

The Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill is a smooth and quiet ride thanks to the 2.25 horsepower motor. The continuous duty engine can provide a steady and smooth belt motion for users up to 225 pounds. Even at the max speed and incline, you can expect the same experience.

Treadbelt

The key feature on the treadbelt is the Aerosoft cushioning system. This will help relieve any stress you may feel in your legs or feet during a workout. For users who have conditions that impact their knees and ankles, this can be a very valuable feature.

The running surface measures 18 inches by 50 inches, which is a typical size that should only feel confining to users who are very tall.

Programs and Other Features

You will find seven pre-programmed programs on the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill. These programs include endurance challenges, weight loss, cardio, mountain and hill climb, intervals, and manual. If you find that you get bored easily during a workout, these programs may provide a little extra incentive to stay interested and motivated.

Computer Monitor

You can track the progress of your distance, speed, calories burned, and more with the LED display monitor on the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill. It also comes with a thumb pulse monitor to track your heart rate during a workout.

Assembly and Storage

Some users have reported that the assembly process is very tedious. It may take up to two hours to properly put this machine together. At approximately 120 pounds, it may be too heavy for you to assemble by yourself.

The frame of the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill folds down to make storage easier. However, it may not be very easy to move the device because of its weight.

Warranty

This machine has a lifetime frame warranty, a two-year motor warranty, and a 90-day labor and parts warranty.

Dimensions

The Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill measures 31 x 52 x 71 inches and weighs 121 pounds.

User Reviews

More than 130 customers have weighed in with their opinion on the Amazon product page for this treadmill. While not everyone has recommended the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill, they do have plenty of positive comments to make. Compliments most often mention the smoothness and strength of the motor, the diversity of the workout programs, and the overall construction quality.

Any Complaints?

Some tall users have complained about the size of the running/walking deck. Unfortunately, that is a problem they will find with every budget treadmill. Other users have suggested that the max user weight capacity is closer to 225 pounds than the listed 250 pounds. If you require a higher weight capacity, it may be safe to look at another option.

Final Recommendation

The Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill currently costs under $450, which makes it a very smart purchase when you consider some of the great features it has. The motor and the pre-set programs are strong points on this machine, which is rare for a budget-friendly treadmill.

The post Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

While the technological features are not going to wow you, the Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill does pack a pretty good punch for its price. If you want to work out on an affordable, quiet machine that fits easily in your home, this product is worth a deeper look.

Motor

The 2.25 horsepower motor is not the weakest option on the market, but it also probably won’t provide enough power to support running. This is why we say that this model is better for walkers and joggers. Giving up the motor power is just one of the compromises you need to make when shopping for a budget machine.

There is an advantage to all low horsepower treadmills. They do tend to be quieter than some of their competitors. This could be a real plus if you like to listen to music or watch TV while you are working out. The Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill has a top speed of 10 mph.

Treadbelt

The running deck portion of the machine measure 18” x 47.” At this length, it probably is not going to provide ample space for people much over 6’ 2” tall. For people of average height and below, there should not be any problem with the size of the treadbelt.

Unlike many other budget treadmills, this model comes with a cushioning system. Considering the price tag, it is surprising that the Aerosoft Cushioning System is included in the design. With this feature in place, the shock and stress on your feet and joints should be drastically reduced. This is especially beneficial for people who plan to put many hours into exercising on their Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill.

The treadbelt also comes with an incline feature that makes it possible to raise the running deck. While it only lifts up to 5 percent, it does provide some variation in the level of difficulty in a workout.

Programs and Features

There are four pre-programmed workout programs that come with the Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill. These programs cover intervals, rolling hills, weight loss, and a manual option. Four is not many compared to the number of programs found on pricier treadmills, but these options do provide some nice variation for a budget product.

The Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill computer gives users feedback on some of the most important data. It will reliably track distance, time, speed, and calories burned. A pulse heart rate monitor also provides accurate information.

Assembly and Storage

This product comes with a detailed set of instructions that should make assembly easy for most. Most of the parts are already pre-assembled, so one person should be able to handle the job by themselves in as little as 30 minutes.

Once assembly is complete, you will find that the Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill is quite a compact machine. It also easily folds down into smaller dimensions when it is time for storage.

Warranty

The frame has a lifetime warranty while the motor is covered for one year and all parts and labor are covered for 90 days.

Dimensions

The Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill measures 29 x 52 x 61 inches when assembled and 29 x 56 x 26.25 inches. It weighs 108 pounds.

User Reviews

Amazon users seem to have some mixed feelings about the Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill. The positive reviews seem to focus on the easy assembly process, the effectiveness of the overall workout experience, and the compactness of the machine.

The average rating on Amazon is 3.4 stars out of 5, which makes it one of the lower rated treadmills.

Any Complaints?

There have been some quality control issues with this model. While the issues do seem to be rare, they have led to some negative reviews that are driving down the overall user rating on this machine.

Final Recommendation

There is some risk involved in purchasing the Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill due to the reported quality control issues. If you would prefer to avoid that, but you like everything else about this model, you should consider the 725T Plus model. It offers many of the same advantages, does not have any reported quality control issues, and is only slightly more expensive.

The post Merit Fitness 715T Plus Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Motor

The Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill comes equipped with a 2.25 horsepower motor. If this sounds a little low on power to you, you would be right. This motor most likely will not be able to provide enough power to support any running you might want to do. Inclined, high speed running is pretty much out of the question.

For many people, this does not have to be a deal breaker. If your routines consists mostly of jogging and walking, this motor can provide quiet and smooth operation. The incline adjusts from 0 to 10 percent, and the machine can go up to 10 MPH.

Treadbelt

The treadbelt measures 20 x 55 inches. It should be able to accommodate the vast majority of users. Perhaps people 6’4” and taller, or people with an extra long stride, would feel confined.

The Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill really stands out when it comes to comfort. Thanks to the patented PerfectFLEX cushioning system on the deck, this machine can provide an exceptional level of shock absorption and support.

Programs and Features

The Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill comes with a wide variety of pre-programmed workouts. There are many different options to choose from, including workouts based on distance goals, interval goals, and calorie goals. With the variety available here, you should be able to find something that directly benefits your unique fitness goals.

Console

The computer console on the Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill makes it easy to interact and follow along with the programs. You will have quick access to key information like speed, workout progress, incline, distance traveled, and speed. All of this data is easy to read on the back-lit LCD display. Thanks to sensors in the hand grips, you can also check your heart rate while working out.

Console

Speakers

Exercise equipment speakers rarely produce a quality sound. Surprisingly, the Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill provides a pleasant music listening experience.

Fan

The fan is not as effective as the speakers. Most treadmills suffer from a weak fan, and that is the case with this machine. Do not expect a strong cooling breeze.

Assembly and Storage

The Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill has a shipping weight of 192 pounds, making it one of the heavier treadmills on the market. If you do not pay for professional installation and assembly, you should definitely consider asking someone for help. It will be much easier to screw in some of the heavier parts if you have help. It should only take around 45 minutes to an hour for two people to complete the assembly.

The FratherLIGHT design, along with some well placed wheels, make moving and storing this heavy duty machine a lot easier than you might think. It is heavy, but you can lower the deck and wheel it to a proper storage space without too much effort.

Warranty

This product comes with a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor, and a one-year warranty for all parts and labor.

Dimensions

This machine measures 70 x 33.5 x 55 inches and weighs 165 pounds after it is fully assembled. The max user weight capacity is 300 pounds.

User Reviews

There are only 22 reviews up on Amazon for this relatively new product, but the response has been very positive so far. It has received an average rating of out of 5 stars.

Most of the positive comments focus on the easy assembly, quiet operation, wide range of programs, sleek design, and easy storage. Several users have also mentioned that Horizon Fitness provides excellent customer support for this machine.

Any Complaints?

There are only minor complaints for the Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill. The weak fan is a bit of an issue, but that is something that many users have almost come to expect with exercise equipment. The motor is unable to support high speed running, but that is not something most users expect from a mid-price treadmill. Some users also have mentioned that they find the interface to be very basic.

Final Recommendation

Users have very few complaints about the Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill. It has been rated as a “Best Buy” by many different reviewers. It should be considered a solid mid-price treadmill that delivers good value for money. You won’t find some of the features of a high end treadmill, but the Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill can provide you with a comfortable, effective workout experience for years to come.

The post Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Flywheel

The user is the motor of the Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill. With no motor involved, you can expect a very quiet workout that won’t disturb your ability to watch TV or listen to music. The machine has dual-weighted flywheels that are supposed to provide the deck with smooth stability. However, some users have complained that walking or jogging motion on this machine is inconsistently smooth.

Treadbelt

It would seem that the 42-inch treadbelt deck would be long enough to easily accommodate even the longest strides. However, some users have said that they feel the treadbelt comes up short when they want to break out their running stride.

Other Features

Monitor

The Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill has a battery operated, multi-function monitor that tracks several of the basic metrics that you should expect to find on any modern piece of exercise equipment. You can reliably track time, speed, distance traveled, and calories burned.

Heavy Duty Frame

With a heavy-duty steel frame, you should expect this machine to hold up for years. Despite the heavy frame, this product is still relatively light at approximately 60 pounds.

Incline

You can adjust the incline of the Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill. The options are either zero incline, eight degree incline, or 10 degree incline. The highest option should add a high degree of difficulty to any workout.

Safety Features

There are a number of minor safety features that should make this product easier to use. It has a non-slip treadbelt surface, skid-resistant rubber protectors on the bottom, and foam padding for the side and front rails.

Assembly and Storage

The Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill comes with precise instructions that make assembly easy. The parts only weigh 56 pounds, making it possible for one person to handle the assembly process.

Easy storage is a key feature of the Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill. It folds into a more compact shape for easy storage in a garage or closet.

Warranty

This product comes with a one year warranty on the frame.

Dimensions

When assembled, the product measures 46.5 x 43.5 x 26 inches.

User Reviews

The reviews have been somewhat mixed. While roughly 25 percent of reviewers have rated this machine as a one or two out of five, there are still plenty of reviewers who have positive comments. It has received an average rating of out of 5 stars.

Positive reviews tend to focus on the fact that the Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill delivers on its basic promises. It claims to be an affordable, reliable manual treadmill that is easy to move and store when not in use. A majority of users find this to be the case.

Any Complaints?

Many users find that this product is simply too basic for their tastes. Some find it overly difficult to establish a smooth walking or jogging motion on the Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill. There also are mixed opinions on whether or not this device is good for running. Considering it is a manual treadmill, you would think that it could provide reasonable support for whatever speed the user was capable of reaching. However, some users report that it can be very difficult to get this machine to respond smoothly to a running stride.

Final Recommendation

You need to know what you are getting into when you purchase the Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill. Owning a manual treadmill is very different from owning one with a motor. If you simply want a quiet machine that is inexpensive and easy to store, this one should be able to match your needs. Just know that you will probably have to overlook shortcomings in order to earn those savings.

The post Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Lets dig deeper into the individual strengths and weaknesses of the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill so you can make the right purchasing decision.

Motor

With only 1.5 horsepower, the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill is unlikely to provide you with enough power to support full running speed. Users will be limited to walking and jogging, which may not be a big concern for everyone. There is one advantage to the low horsepower of the motor: it is very quiet while in operation. If you only want a treadmill for walking and jogging and you like a quiet, budget-friendly machine, the Confidence Power Plus could be just right.

Treadbelt

Measuring up at only 38.5” x 14” the treadbelt is not long enough to provide people 6’2” or taller with enough room for a full stride. If you are tall, this machine is probably going to make you feel confined while you are exercising.

The treadbelt does not include a cushioning system, which is not a tremendous surprise considering this is a budget treadmill. If you plan on doing a lot of exercising on the machine, however, you should consider that the lack of cushion could have an impact on your joints.

Programs and Features

With only three total programs to choose from, the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill does not exactly keep pace with some of the more feature-rich treadmills on the market. Considering there are only three options, the system does a surprisingly good job of mixing up workout suggestions and challenging users.

Computer Console

The LED display on the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill does not have a graphical representation of a workout. It does come with the data tracking abilities of most standard budget treadmills. It will record distance traveled, time elapsed, speed, and calories burned.

Assembly and Storage

If you are lacking space in your exercise area, you may want to overlook some of the shortcomings of this machine. As a very light product with a very convenient folding design, it will
be easy to fit the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill into an apartment space or a cramped exercise room in your home. The transport wheels make moving and storing the machine even easier.

Users have not reported any common problems during assembly. With such a low weight, one person should be able to assemble everything on their own.

Warranty

Most budget treadmills tend to skip on the warranty. Surprisingly, this is not the case for the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill. A five-year warranty covers the motor, and a one-year warranty covers the frame.

Dimensions

The shipping dimensions are 50.5″ x 25.5″ x 11.5.″ Once it is fully assembled the product will measure 49″ x 24″ x 11.″ It only weighs 53 pounds and supports users up to 250 pounds.

User Reviews

With the no-frills approach taken by the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill, it is unlikely to inspire overwhelmingly positive ratings from users. As a quality, budget-friendly machine with few high-end features to offer, it is not surprising that it has received middle of the road reviews. It currently has an average rating of 3.7 stars out of 5 from Amazon customers.

Users have rated the easy assembly, compact design, low weight, and quiet operation as the best features.

Any Complaints?

The negative reviews tend to focus on the lack of high-end features. The Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill does not have an incline, a pulse reader, or built-in workout programs. Users are reluctant to give it high scores considering all these faults.

Final Recommendation

The fact is that you have to be willing to pay $600 or more if you want all the features that come with a top of the line treadmill. While the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill is definitely not top of the line, it does provide budget-conscious exercisers with a reasonably effective workout experience for a low cost. If you only want to spend a little on a treadmill, you have limited space to work with in your home, and you do not care about technological features, the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill would be ideal.

The post Confidence Power Plus Motorized Electric Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Motor

While the TR 1200i’s 2.5 HP continuous motor leaves a little to be desired in the power department, most joggers and walkers will find that it suits their needs. Heavier individuals and people who want to use it for running may find that it comes up lacking.

With 2” rollers in the rear and 2.5” front end rollers, the motor should be able to deliver smooth, quiet, and reliable operation for many years to come. However, thanks to a lifetime warranty, you never have to worry about whether it will break down or not.

Treadbelt

The LifeSpan TR 1200i folding treadmill has a treadbelt that measures 20” x 56”, which is comparable to other treadmills in this price range. These dimensions allow users enough space to take a jogging stride without feeling cramped. For extremely tall users, or those who have a long running stride, it may be better to look for a treadmill that can provide a length of 60” or more.

Technological Features

The multicolored LCD console

The LifeSpan TR 1200i folding treadmill has a number of programs and features designed to help users achieve their fitness goals.

LifeSpan TR1200i Console

This model is equipped with 17 programs that provide management of different facets of your fitness goals. All of them can be directly controlled through the console. Some of the program categories include diet management, sports training, weight management, and more. Exercise physiologists designed the programs to ensure users have effective guidance that also is safe.

Lifespan Fitness Club

Purchasing a LifeSpan TR1200i earns you a free membership to the LifeSpan Fitness Club. This online resource allows users to create and save exercise regimens, track progress, and find educational health and fitness information.

If you insert a USB device into the console prior to exercising, the fitness club program will record all of your workout stats and store them on your device. The program also can use this information to suggest a custom workout routine that is perfectly tailored to your capabilities and fitness goals.

Other Features

Speakers

Speakers come included with the LifeSpan TR1200i model. While you should not expect high sound quality from these speakers, they do provide a listening experience that is superior to other treadmills in this price bracket. In case you want to plug in a device, there is a built-in headphone jack that works perfectly with MP3 players.

Holders

This treadmill comes with a book rack and a cup holder designed to fit water bottles.

Dimensions

The LifeSpan TR 1200i folding treadmill is 70 x 33 x 54 inches. It has a shipping weight of 220 pounds and weighs 204 pounds out of the box.

Assembly and Storage

This model folds into dimensions of 39 x 33 x 66 inches for storage. Most users have reported that it is very easy to assemble the treadmill. It should take two people roughly two hours to get everything set up and operational.

Warranty

The TR1200i comes with a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor. Parts are covered for three years and labor for one year.

User Reviews

Over 150 people have rated the LifeSpan TR1200i treadmill on Amazon. The average score for these reviews is 4.3. It appears that the general consensus is that this is a quality product without any major drawbacks. Many reviewers have noted the quietness and smoothness of the motor, the overall sturdiness of the treadmill, the free LifeSpan Fitness Club membership, and the wide range of workout programs as the biggest positives.

Any Complaints?

A few reviewers have left negative comments regarding the sound quality of the speakers. Unfortunately, this is a common complaint for treadmills in this price range. Relative to its competitors, the speakers on the TR 1200i are above average.

Some reviewers have also noted that at 204 pounds, the LifeSpan TR 1200i is a little on the heavy side. This makes it difficult for one person to assemble or re-position the treadmill. Make sure you get help.

Final Recommendation

Experts highly recommend the LifeSpan TR1200i treadmill. In the past, this model has been given the “Best Buy” Award from Treadmill Doctor, and Fitness Professor named it “Head of the Class” Best Treadmill under $1,000. In 2013, the LifeSpan TR1200i is back and better than ever. Not only is it quiet, durable, and easy on the joints, but it also has some exceptional extra features that help users manage workouts and achieve fitness goals. This is one of the best value treadmills that you will find.

The post LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

Considering it packs a strong punch in the workout department, and it is priced under $200, you might think this is a sure thing. However, you should consider all the pros and cons in this review before you decide to go with the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill over a model with more technology.

Flywheel & Belt

These features are the best place to start when discussing the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill. The flywheel and belt offer a quiet, smooth experience that has its positives and negatives. First of all, obviously, without an electric motor involved, the user is responsible for powering the treadmill with his or her own leg strength. This could make working out even more satisfying, but it may not be for everyone. The running belt measures 41” by 13” and users report that is sturdy and appropriately sized.

Features

Phoenix 98510 Computer Monitor

The Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill does not come with many technological features. This is a necessary compromise in order to achieve the lower price point. Still, this model does come equipped with a computer monitor that tracks most of the basic data that an exerciser would want to know. You can record calories burned, speed, distance traveled, and time. With this information at your fingertips, it will be easier and more fun to track your progress toward your fitness goals.

Assembly and Storage

Ease of assembly and storage should be where the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill really outshines its heavier and more feature-rich competitors. It has a foldable design that is intended to make storage quick and easy. Just by pulling a pin and loosening some screws, you can either collapse or expand the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill to your heart’s desire. When collapsed, it is much smaller and easier to store than any deluxe treadmill would be. If you are working with limited space, this can be a great feature.

It also is important to note that assembly can take as little as 20 or 30 minutes for one person. Many heavy duty electronic treadmills require at least two people and two hours or more.

Warranty

The Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill comes with warranties that cover the frame for one year and all parts for up to 90 days.

Dimensions

When fully expanded, this product measures 46.5 x 50 x 21.1 inches and weighs 45 pounds. It will measure 21.7 x 21.1 x 50.2 inches when it is folded and ready for storage.

User Reviews

While many budget treadmills get swamped with negative reviews from frustrated customers, the reviews for the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill have by and large been positive. It has received a rating of out of 5 from more than 250 reviewers on Amazon. Most of the compliments are directed toward the easy assembly, the overall quality of the materials, the treadmill’s ability to support running as well as jogging and walking, and the low price.

Any Complaints?

Some users have complained that it is too difficult to fold and stow the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill. As mentioned above, you must pull a pin and loosen some screws in order to fold it into a storable position. A few reviewers have reported that they sometimes have trouble removing the screws.

Final Recommendation

If you are in the market for a low price treadmill that can provide reliable, quiet, and smooth support during your walking, jogging, or running workout, this model might be just what you are looking for. Any exerciser looking for a deluxe model that has all the latest bells and whistles should look elsewhere. However, if this is your first foray into the treadmill market, or if you are always hunting for a bargain, the Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill should be one of your top choices. It is one of the best in the no-frills category, and it is very reasonably priced.

The post Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill Review appeared first on FitnessHandy.

The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill is a big winner when it comes to these concerns. Horizon specifically designed this model for treadmill shoppers dealing with space constraints. As is usually the case, however, with special features come other special compromises. This Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill review will help you weigh the pros and cons.

Motor

With a continuous 1.5 horsepower motor, the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill is very capable of providing smooth deceleration and acceleration of the belt. The speed ranges between one to six miles per hour. The instant safety key could be a great feature for some, including any users with small children. If you want instantly shut the motor down, just pull the key on the console.

Treadbelt

The treadbelt on the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill is smaller than you might expect. At 17 x 45 inches, it can still easily accommodate walkers and joggers, but a runner may struggle to find enough space for a full stride. The recommended maximum user weight for this treadbelt is 250 pounds.

Features

Computer Console

The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill LCD display does not match up well with some of its competitors. It will reliably record distance, time, speed, pulse, and calories burned, but that is about it. Many other treadmills on the market today are packed with programs and technological features that may provide some users with a heightened workout experience. The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill comes with only two programs. However, it does win points for have a very readable and accurate display. A thumb heart rate button tracks all your vitals.

Programs

As mentioned above, the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill only has two workout programs included — manual and weight loss. These two programs are both effective tools, but Horizon is lagging far behind the competition when it comes to interactive and educational features for exercisers.

Speakers

This treadmill does come with two-watt audio speakers that make it easy to listen to music during a workout. It also comes with an input jack that allows a user to plug in a CD player or an MP3 device.

Assembly and Storage

The fact is that Horizon has stripped down some of the extra features to make this model lighter and easier to store and move. Many people avoid purchasing a treadmill because they are afraid they won’t be able to find space in their home to store the product when it is not in use. At only 99 pounds, the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill is much easier for one person to cope with. Best of all, it arrives already assembled. You can unfold the treadmill and get started right away. That is a huge bonus for many shoppers who may be willing to do without technological features.

When it comes time to store the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill, it will fold down to only 10 inches off the ground, making it possible to store it under a bed. An innovative design does away with all of the pins and screws sometimes associated with folding treadmills.

Warranty

The frame is covered for up to 10 years, the motor for five, and the electrical components as well as all parts and labor are covered for one year.

Dimensions

The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill measures 59 x 23 x 48 inches when fully expanded. It folds down to only 10” by 59”.

User Reviews

Over 170 reviews have been written about the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill on Amazon. The average score of those reviews is out of 5. Many customers have complimented the treadmill on its ability to follow through on the promise of being easy to move and store. Positive comments also touch on the effectiveness of the workout experience.

Any Complaints?

Some users have been disappointed to find that the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill does not have a water bottle holder. The only other repetitive complaint has been the speakers. Users say that music often sounds tinny through the SG’s two-watt speakers. However, the second option of plugging in an MP3 player is satisfying to most.

Final Recommendation

If you are struggling to find space in your home for workout equipment, the folks at Horizon have just what you need. They have designed a product that requires no assembly and is easy to store under a bed. It is important to remember that the sleek, lightweight design does lead to compromises regarding technological features. The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill may not have all the bells and whistles that other models have, but if you want a plug and play experience at a reasonable price, you cannot do any better.

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ProForm have made a name for their company by releasing some great value buys in the treadmill department. The ProForm 505 CST treadmill is another product that should be placed in the value category. While it is a good price for what you get, there are some facets of this product that leave some room for improvement. However, in general, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives, making the 505 a smart purchase.

Motor

The ProForm 505 CST treadmill has a 2.25 continuous duty motor that is less suited for runners than it is for joggers or walkers. Runners and people weighing toward the higher end of the suggested maximum of 300 lbs may find that this treadmill feels a little lacking in power. For everyone else, this motor should be able to provide a smooth and quiet experience. That could be especially important if you like to watch TV or listen to music while you are exercising.

Treadbelt

Some of the same issues that apply to the motor also apply to the treadbelt, namely that it can come up a little short for runners. The belt is 20” by 55,” which may not provide enough room for the longer stride that runners need.

Technological Features

The iFit Live is one of the most popular features of the ProForm 505 CST treadmill. If you want some extra motivation as you strive to meet your fitness goals, iFit Live can provide it. This feature allows users to manage profiles, customize fitness programs, and download workout regimens, and receive motivation from workouts with Jillian Michaels.

With the ability to map routes and track progress via Google Maps, this feature makes it easy for treadmill users to put their workout in a real world context. The machine will even use actual terrain from your real world route to adjust the incline.

However, it is important to note that a wireless connection is required for this feature to work. If that is not a problem in your home, iFit Live can make it much easier, and much more fun, to achieve your fitness goals.

Other Features

• MP3 Compatibility — This feature has an intuitive design that puts it easily within the reach of a user. Sound quality is adequate but not great.
• 0-10 percent Quick Incline Control — This allows the user to touch a button to quickly change the degree of incline.
• 0-10 MPH Quick Speed Control — This is the same functionality that applies to incline change. With one touch of a button you can alter the speed of the ProForm 505 CST treadmill.
• ProShox Lite 3 Cushioning — It provides extra support for the joints.

Warranty

The warranty on this model covers the frame for life, the motor for 25 years, and parts and labor for up to one year.

Dimensions

75 x 30.3 x 11.3 inches
Shipping weight: 195 lbs.

Assembly and Storage

Users report that assembly of the ProForm 505 CST takes roughly two hours. If do have trouble, you should take note that some have had minor complaints regarding the convenience of ProForm’s customer service. After you have successfully set up your treadmill, you will find it very easy to vertically fold the deck and slide it into a storage space.

User Reviews

Users have good things to say about the sturdiness of the ProForm 505 CST treadmill, its quietness during operation, and its smooth tread belt. However, some have voiced concerns about the inconsistent accuracy of the heart rate monitor.

Any Complaints?

There have been very few serious complaints about this model. Most users are happy with the quality they get for this value price. Potential buyers should consider the fact that while ProForm lists 300 lbs as the maximum weight capacity, testing seems to suggest it should be more like 250 lbs.

Final Recommendation

It will be difficult to find a treadmill that offers better value than the ProForm 505 CST treadmill. This company always offers products that have technological features that compare well with much more expensive models. We highly recommend the ProForm 505 CST treadmill for people 250 lbs or under looking for good value.

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