Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Sole F80 Treadmill 2011 Model Review


The Sole F80 Treadmill 2011 model is an excellent, high end home treadmill that features a longer deck and a more user friendly console display than previous models of the Sole F80.

If you are a moderate runner - or even an athletic runner - I think you'll be pleased with the changes to this most current model. If you want a powerful, high quality treadmill that is built to take a pounding, you'll be pleased to note that the Sole F80 - like all Sole treadmills - comes with a powder coated, all steel welded frame.

The 3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor combines with the all steel, zinc coated flywheel to deliver a smooth and fluid motion. The running surface protects your joints with it's impact reducing Cushion Flex deck.


If you want to learn more about the Sole F80 Treadmill (2011 Model) check out the reviews at Amazon.com

Sole F80 Treadmill 2011 model Features and Specifications
  • 3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor
  • Easy Assist folding deck design lets you raise and lower the running surface
  • Shock absorbing Cushion Flex deck running surface
  • 7.5 inch LCD display lets you track workout metrics such as speed, time, distance traveled, and calories expended
  • Integrated sound system with built in speakers
  • 2 heart rate controlled workout options
  • 6 automatic workouts
  • 2 customizable workout programs
  • 20 inch by 60 inch running belt
  • Speed range from 0.5 miles per hour to 11 MPH
  • 15% maximum incline
  • Cooling fan
  • 350 lb. user capacity
  • Lifetime warranties on motor, deck, and frame.
Sole F80 Treadmill Customer Reviews

We have found several customer reviews for the recently released 2011 Sole F80. Like the previous model, this Sole treadmill has received overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Men and women that have purchased and used this treadmill like the upgraded features, notably the larger running surface. Also mentioned were the convenience of the Easy Assist folding deck, the generous warranty, and the quietness and sturdiness of this treadmill. Several remarked about the value. One person called the Sole F80, "The best buy for the money."

Any complaints? Yes, one person said the speakers were not that great. Another had problems with delivery. And one person said that the Sole F80 was quiet but he wished it was quieter. Overall, customers gave this treadmill a 4 out of 5 star rating. Here are a couple of typical customer reviews.

"This is my first treadmill ever, and I was nervous to spend so much money, but all the reviews everywhere (here and on Consumer Reports) said that this one was the best at-home treadmill you could buy. Why buy a cheaper one that will break in a year? You can't beat the awesome warranty on frame, parts, and even labor. So with peace of mind, I took the plunge and placed my order. ..."( read more )

"I,like many others, have researched treadmills for a long time (over a year) prior to making a purchase. I had been running at two different gyms, talking to everyone I could (who isn't a sales person) who purchased a unit, and actually ran on way too many units in stores. Without a doubt the Sole (and model) beat it's competition...."( more )
The 2011 model of the Sole F80Treadmill rates as a best buy in it's price range. It makes an excellent treadmill for men and women that want a treadmill that they can depend on for serious training for years to come. We can recommend this treadmill without reservation.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill

The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill is a convenient treadmill for use at home. It accommodates most walkers and joggers. It is very easy to set up right out of the packaging. The Horizon Evolve treadmill requires no assembly. You simply move the 99 lb. treadmill to where you want it in your home, plug it in and you're good to go.

With the simple workout controls on the console, you can easily track and manage your workouts. The manual and weight loss programs help guide you and motivate you toward your fitness goals.

Perhaps the best feature of the Horizon Evolve treadmill is it's ability to fold compactly so that you can store it out of your way when the treadmill is not in use.



Features and Specifications for the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill

  • No assembly required
  • Compact design
  • 1.5 horsepower continuous duty motor
  • 2 workout programs ( manual and weight loss )
  • Heart rate monitoring
  • Lightweight
  • Speed range of 1 to 6 miles per hour
  • 250 lb. user capacity
  • Built in speakers for MP3 or CD player
  • LCD display console which monitors key metrics .
  • 17" by 45" walking/jogging surface.
  • Console safety key
  • Warranty information - 10 years frame; 5 years motor; 1 year electrical components,part, and labor.

What are people saying about the Horizon Fitness Evolve SG Compact treadmill?

The Horizon Evolve SG Compact treadmill received many more positive reviews than negative reviews from the dozens of men and women that gave written reviews on this treadmill. We examined the customer reviews at Amazon, Sears, Horizon Fitness, as well as other sites.

Many of the women and men this submitted reviews were pleased with the ease of setting up the Horizon Evolve. Several commented on this treadmills compactness and on how easy it is to store. The Horizon Evolves' quietness was also something that folks liked.

Here's what one satisfied user had to say...

"After using this for a couple of months, I'm raising my rating to 5 stars. This is one of the best purchases I've made, the only exercise machine that I look forward to using. You don't need all of the extra programs, bells and whistle to get your heart pumping and your sweat glands pouring. This device easily fits in our kitchen, opposite a countertop TV and JBL iPod speaker (much better than the built-in one with this or any other treadmill), and I've come to feel unready for the day ahead until doing my 30 minutes on the single automatic program. I've progressed from being able to walk at 3.5 mph to 4.5 mph and am feeling the overall aerobic benefits more each day. Now if I only had as much motivation to use Total Gym and all of the other neglected gadgets I've collected! ..." Read the entire review here.


We feel that the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill would be a good choice for men and women looking for a compact treadmill that they can use for walking or light jogging. Since to stores easily under a bed or in a closet, it's an excellent option for those with space considerations.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

The LifeSpan Fitness TR200 - Is This Treadmill Right For You?


The LifeSpan Fitness TR200 Fold-N-Stor Compact Treadmill was called "the perfect treadmill for small spaces" by one recent review. Infact, this portable, walking treadmill does fold away nicely for easy storage under a bed or in a closet when you're not using it and need the space.

The LifeSpan Fitness TR2000 comes fully assembled. You just take it out of the box and you're ready to go. The blue LCD console lets you track workout measurements such as time, calories, distance, steps, heart rate, speed, and incline level.

The controls include an easy to use start button, up/down arrow keys, and quick start incline and speed buttons.

Six exercise programs ensure you will always have a variety of workouts to keep your workouts fresh. Contact heart rate grips and built-in speakers for your iPod or MP3 player are also included.

If you want to buy the LifeSpan Fitness TR200 treadmill, you can get it cheap online through Amazon.com here.

LifeSpan Fitness TR200 Features and Specs

  • Comes fully assembled
  • Folds to fit under a bed or in a closet
  • LCD console that tracks key fitness metrics
  • Quick start speed and incline buttons
  • Six workout programs
  • Contact heart rate grips
  • Lifetime frame warranty
LifeSpan Fitness TR200 Customer Reviews

The online customer reviews of the LifeSpan Fitness TR200 were overwhelmingly positive. Many of the reviews commented on the compactness and quietness of this treadmill. For people that didn't have a great deal of space to dedicate to a treadmill, being able to stow this treadmill out of the way when not in use was much appreciated. As one reviewer stated, "It fits us...and our budget."

The fact that the TR200 treadmill comes full assembled was another positive mentioned by several reviews. Karen, who is new to treadmills, had this to say.

"I haven't used a treadmill before but I really like this one. It can be adjusted to what ever walking conditions you prefer. It seems very sturdy, I'll be able to use it for a long time. It's quiet, I can even talk on the phone while walking. It is perfect for me."


Several reviewers had problems with his TR200 treadmill stopping abruptly. In at least one instance, the motor needed to be replaced. While the great majority of customers report that they are very satisfied, problems with the motor are a significant source of concern. Also troubling is the apparently spotty record by customer support for those with this issue. We suggest you spend sometime reading through the experiences of men and women before you buy this - or any other - treadmill.

If you want more information on the LifeSpan Fitness TR200, check out online reviews at Amazon.com

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Proform 380 Treadmill Review


The Proform 380 Treadmill is a moderately inexpensive treadmill that comes with a number of features usually found on higher end models. A 1.5 horsepower continuous duty/ 2.25 horsepower motor makes your exercise sessions run smoothly and quietly. The LCD display console lets you monitor the progress of your workout on a 5" by 7" screen.

With the push of a button, you can adjust your speed from zero to 10 miles per hour. The level of incline can also be adjusted up to 10 degrees of incline. One of the best features of the Proform 380 Treadmill is the ProTech cushioning. It is built into the 16" by 50" running deck to reduce the impact on your joints.

As with most home exercise equipment, we have found Amazon to have the best price on the Proform 380. Plus you can get free shipping - which is nice. Click here to check it out.

Proform 380 Treadmill Features and Specifications

  • 1.5 CHP/2.25 HP motor
  • Push button control of your walking/running speed from 0 to 10 MPH
  • Adjustable incline to 10 degrees
  • 16" by 50" walking/running surface
  • ProTech cushioning built into the deck
  • LCD display console to monitor progress
  • Six pre-set workout programs
  • iPod compatible with built-in speaker
  • EKG grip pulse technology
  • Coolaire workout fan
  • 250 lb.user capacity
  • 5 year warranty on the frame; 90 days parts and labor
Proform 380 Treadmill Reviews

There were not as many reviews online for this particular treadmill, but the several we found were generally favorable. One reviewer liked that you can monitor your heart rate and calories burned during workouts. A couple of people liked that this treadmill folds up compactly when it's not being used.

Laura said that it was a "real bonus" that the Proform 380 has a running deck that cushions her joints. She also likes the speakers for her iPod as well as the heart rate monitor. A few reviewers commented that the treadmill was a bit squeaky.

Buy from Amazon

The Proform 380 treadmill is a good choice in a moderately priced treadmill. If you are looking for a treadmill with some top feature but don't want to pay hundreds of dollars more, the Proform 380 would be an excellent choice that gives you great value for the money.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Treadmill Workouts : Benefits of Using Treadmills

In this brief video, Aaron Hale discusses some of the health benefits of working out on a treadmill. since 2002, Aaron has been a American Fitness Professional and Associates Cardio & Strength and Conditioning Specialist.



Benefits of Using a Treadmill

  1. Many mid to upper grade treadmills feature a cushioning system that is far easier on your joints that outdoor surfaces such as asphalt and concrete.
  2. Working on a treadmill targets cardiovascular health and endurance.
  3. Lower risk of injury on a treadmill than on outdoor surfaces.
  4. Treadmills are the perfect vehicle for sprint training and interval training.
  5. And many other health benefits.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

BowFlex Series 7 Treadmill Review


The Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill has what you need to give your cardiovascular system an intense workout. With 15 different workout programs and a powerful 3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor, this treadmill will provide your workout sessions with plenty of power and variety.

The 15 workout programs give you a huge selection of exercise options from which you can choose. These included exercise programs targeting fat burning, cardiovascular endurance, heart strength and recovery testing, and a body mass index test.

Other workout options include the calorie goal workout, the distance goal workout, the speed interval jogger program, and the hill intervals. You also get two workout programs that you can customize.

Order the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill from Amazon and save up to 35%

The Bowflex Series 7 has a running deck that folds up for your convenience when you're not using it. The Running/Walking Deck has a large 20 inches by 60 inches surface and features the Strike Zone deck cushioning system to give you support, stability, and comfort as your feet lift off and land while you run, jog, or walk.

Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill Features and Specifications
  • 3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor
  • Speed range goes from 0.5 MPH to 11 mile per hour
  • 15 exercise programs
  • Backlit LCD computer display
  • Strike Zone cushion deck for easy landings and firm push off
  • Generous 20" by 60" running surface
  • 3 speed fan
  • Quick incline and speed keys
  • Grip and telemetric heart rate monitors
  • Warranties; 15 year on frame, 10 years motor, 2 parts, 1 year electronics and labor
  • 300 lb. maximum user weight
  • Two ply belt
Customer Reviews of the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill

The highly popular Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill has more than 200 written reviews on Amazon alone that were submitted by men and women that purchased and use this treadmill. Overwhelmingly, these reviewers give the Series 7 high marks. Over 84% of them gave this treadmill either a 4 or 5 star rating ( 183 of 217). 138 folks gave it the full 5 stars. That's 63% of all the reviews.

What did they like about the Series 7? Several reviewers commented that the recommendations by Consumer Reports and Treadmill Doctor were important in their decision to buy this particular treadmill. Other reviews commented favorably on the machines sturdiness and quietness. Another feature they liked was the choice of many different exercise programs.

Assembly was judged fairly easy by most that mentioned this. They all seem to agree that this treadmill is very heavy and you should make some sort of arrangements for getting it into your house and placed where it is going to be used.

They also liked both the size of the running/walking deck and how it protected their joints while exercising. On reviewer, Dana used her Bowflex Series 7 to train for a half marathon and was pleased with the results, "...I have put on over 800 miles and its had no problems at all. My one disappointment was with the fan. It is not as strong as I would like. This treadmill is also difficult to move around as its very heavy. However, this is a great treadmill, well built and made to last. It was well worth every penny! "

What did the Bowflex Series 7 owners not like about it? Well, there's that fan. Several men and women said that the built-in fan was nothing special. Other complaints included disappointments with customer service and confusion setting up the custom programs. You can check out all the customer reviews here.Bowflex Series 7 customer reviews.

Best Treadmill Reviews feels that the Bowflex Series 7 is a great treadmill compared to others in this price range. It is built to last and has the features to keep your workouts fresh and challenging. If you are seriously considering purchasing the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill be sure to check it out at Amazon and take advantage of their discount pricing on this and other home treadmills.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Best Treadmills Under $500


Looking for a reliable treadmill under $500? Here are the Top 5 treadmills costing below 500 dollars based upon their average customer review rating.

  1. Merit Fitness 725T Treadmill - Over 100 men and women have rated this treadmill in the Amazon customer reviews. Currently, it sports a cumulative 4 star rating. It's a great choice in an affordable, space efficient treadmill if you are a walker or recreational runner.
  2. Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill - This compact, manual treadmill draws good reviews from the nearly 90 men and women that submitted written reviews. If you're a walker, you can set your own pace on this treadmill. And you don't have to find and electric outlet to set it up.
  3. Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill - The Horizon Evolve (pictured above) barely sneaks in under the $500 limit. It's has some of the features you'd expect to find on higher priced models.
  4. Merit Fitness 715T Treadmill - The Merit Fitness 715T features 4 preset workout programs, a fold up frame, and thumb pulse heart rate monitor.
  5. Phoenix Denise Austin 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill - This manual treadmill has a heavy duty flywheel and a sturdy walking/jogging belt. It even has a single button electronics display that lets you track your speed, distance, time, and calories burned.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill

The Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill features a heavy duty flywheel and a walking/jogging belt that measures 41.5 inches by 13.5 inches. It's manual treadmill so you provide the power and determine how fast or slow you want to go.

The single button display lets you easily monitor your speed, distance, time, and calories. It comes with two AA batteries. The Phoenix 98516 has a fold up frame so you can fold it up and roll it away when you're not using it.

Features and Specifications of the Phoenix 98516 Easy up Manual Treadmill

  • Heavy duty flywheel
  • Comes almost completely assembled
  • Folds up and locks for storage and transport
  • Single button electronics monitor
  • 250 lb. weight limit
  • 41.5 by 13.5 inches walking/jogging surface
  • 90 day warranty on parts; one year on frame
Customer reviews of the Phoenix 98516 Treadmill

The dozens of customer reviews we found we somewhat mixed on this treadmill. While most people liked it, several reported frustrating problems with the walking/jogging belt. Even those that give the Phoenix 98516 good marks cautioned that you probably should only consider it a walking treadmill. And users that approached the 250 lb. limit had problems.

Many people that only wanted a basic manual treadmill for walking felt that this was a good basic treadmill. One pointed out that it was a good choice for seniors that do not want an electric treadmill that they might get "thrown off of ". You can read more here. Customer reviews.

While Best Treadmill Reviews feels that the Phoenix 98516 could be a serviceable - even good - treadmill for some men and women in certain situation, we cannot give it our recommendation.

We feel there are other treadmill in this price range that deliver better value for your hard earned dollars ( for example, The Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill ). You can checkout several top rated treadmills in this general price range here. Top Rated Treadmills Under $200

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill Review


The Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill is a quiet, self powered treadmill that lets you exercise at the pace you choose to walk or run . It has a 42 inch walking/running deck and dual weighted flywheels to keep the deck running smoothly.

It folds up and can be easily stored in a closet when not in use. The InMotion II Manual Treadmill operates quietly so you can listen to music or watch your favorite television program while you are working out. It has a battery operated console that tracks time, distance, speed, and the number of calories you've burnt while exercising.

Since it does not require an electrical outlet, you can use it most anywhere.

Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill Features and Specifications

  • Self-powered, manual treadmill
  • 42 inch long walking/running deck
  • Folds for easy storage
  • 8 and 10 degree incline positions
  • Heavy duty steel frame
  • 1 year warranty on frame




Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill Review

Reviews of this treadmill were mostly positive but there were a few negative ones as well. Men and women that liked the Stamina InMotion II said that it was well made and a good value for the price. Overall, they got what they expected from a manual treadmill.

Some reviewers said that they liked the fact that they could fold it up when not using it. One said that he thought he got a better workout with a manual treadmill.

Others cautioned that this would not be a good choice in treadmills if you wanted to do a lot of running. But overall, the reviews were decidedly positive. At Amazon currently, over 70% of the men and women that submitted written reviews gave the Stamina InMotion II Manual treadmill a 4 or 5 star rating.

We feel comfortable recommending this treadmill to anyone that wants an affordable manual treadmill for walking and light running. As long as you realize it won't deliver the bells and whistles of a higher priced treadmill but deliver dependable service you should be just fine with it.


Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Sole F63 Treadmill - 2011 Model Review


The 2011 model of the Sole F63 Treadmill comes with features you would expect to see only on treadmills priced hundreds of dollars higher. Like all Sole treadmills, the entry level Sole F63 has a powder coated, all-steel frame and stable, heavy-duty inclines.

The Sole F63 gives runners the smooth, fluid motion they would find at the gym with a combination of the reliable 2.5 horsepower continuous duty motor and the all steel, zinc-coated heavy flywheel.

To take care of your joints, the F63 comes with a low impact 1 inch phenolic deck. This shock absorbing running surface reduces impact to the leg and back joints making this treadmill a great choice for frequent runners or those with walking and running related injuries.

Order the Sole F63 Treadmill (2011 Model) from Amazon

The Easy Assist folding deck design lets you fold the Sole F63 up to save space when it is not in use. When you're ready to use the treadmill again, just release the handle and step back while the F63 unfolds itself.

You can control your speed and incline manually or choose from six automatic programs. These programs include programs that target fat burning and cardio endurance. You also get two programs that you can customize to better suit your workout needs and preferences.

The vibrant 6.5 inch LCD Display lets you track your workout progress with ease. It includes display windows for time, speed, incline, distance traveled, pulse rate, pace, and calories burned. A 1/4 mile track display and peak-and-valley graph give you additional visuals to track progress and stay motivated.

Sole F63 Treadmill Features and Specifications

  • Powerful 2.5 horsepower continuous duty motor
  • Speed range from a leisurely walk at 1 mile per hour to a challenging run pace at 10 miles per hour
  • Phenolic shock absorbing deck
  • 20 inches by 55 inches running surface
  • Easy Assist Folding Deck
  • 6.5 inch LCD console display
  • 15 degree maximum incline
  • Hand pulse grips
  • 8 total workout programs
  • 325 weight capacity
  • Cooling fans
  • Lifetime warranty on motor and frame, 3 year on deck
Sole F63 Treadmill Customer Reviews

Currently, there are no Amazon customer reviews on the just released 2011 model. The 2009-10 model received good reviews with an overall 4 star rating out of a possible 5 star rating. You can read those reviews here. Customer reviews for the Sole F63 Treadmill ( 2009-10)

Best Treadmill Reviews feels that this latest version of the Sole F63 treadmill is an excellent choice for men and women that want a serious treadmill at a price point that gives them great value for their hard earned money.

If you run frequently or need to protect your joints from the excessive pounding they can receive from running, the Sole F63 treadmill offers you a way to get your running in while taking care of your joints.


Monday, November 22, 2010

Merit Fitness 725T Treadmill Review


The Merit Fitness 725T Treadmill is an affordable treadmill that will stand up to regular use at home. This treadmill is a good fit for you if you plan on using a treadmill for walking and recreational running.

The Merit 725T has a speed range that goes from one mile per hour all the way to a challenging 10 miles per hour. You can adjust the elevation range from level to 10 degrees of incline. A 1.25 horsepower continuous duty motor serves as the power plant from this treadmill.

You can track your workout progress from the computer console. With one center LED window and two side windows, you'll be able to monitor your resistance level, time, speed, and distance traveled.



Merit Fitness 725T Treadmill Features and Specifications

  • 1.25 horsepower continuous duty motor
  • Fold-able treadmill to save space when not in use
  • 7 pre-set workout programs
  • Aerosoft cushioning system to protect your joints
  • 18 inches by 45 inches running deck area
  • 250 pound weight capacity
  • Hand contact heart rate monitor
  • Lifetime warranty on frame, 2 years on motor
Merit Fitness Customer Reviews

Overall, the Merit 725t received 4 out of 5 stars from men and women that bought this treadmill and use it regularly. Here's a sampling of some of their comments...

SilverHoney said, "...I'm really happy with this treadmill. I can't tell the difference between this one and much more expensive models..."

Hassadah commented, "...If you(re) looking for something durable and effective for your exercise needs this will surely be the purchase..."

You can read more customer reviews here. Merit Fitness 725T customer review page.

Best Treadmill Reviews feels that this is a good quality, affordable treadmill that will meet the needs of most people that plan on using it for walking or light running. Note the 250 pound capacity limit if you are a larger individual. But if you want a compact, foldable treadmill that lets you workout your cardiovascular system no matter how bad the weather gets outside, the Merit Fitness 725T Treadmill is a good choice.