I am in the market for a treadmill. I have done a bit of research / testing but would like some practical feedback on some of the models I'm considering. Does anyone have any thoughts on . . .

* Smooth 9.1 (or Smooth in general, as they are internet only and i cannot try one out)
* LifeFitness T3
* Trimline 3610
* Spirit 240
* BodyGuard Radisson

Thanks in advance.

Regards,
Michael

 

I have a Pacemaster aan I love it. It will let me run as fast as 5 min/mile and it has a heart
monitor. However, it cost $2k. If you want to run on it (because walking for exercise
is very gay) you need to spend that much. Anything less is not fit for running and will not
hold up to the pounding.

 

Thanks ElTianti,

I expected to pay between $1,500 & $2,000 so the pacemaster is within budget, I'll have to go down to the local dealer and check it out.

One question, do you find the running surface long enough. The Pacemaster site shows the running surface @ 54". I know I would have to test it out but that sounds on the shorter side . . . just looking for some feedback.

Thanks,
Michael

 

Michael,

I've had the Smooth 9.2HRC (Heart Rate Control) for about 9months. I use it 3 to 4 times a week for 60 - 120 minutes at a time. Lots of running and it's holding up very well. It's still like new. I really like the controls. It has thumb controls on the hand rails for speed (right) and elevation (left). The workout display shows a circle track so you can track your 1/4mile time (seems appropriate somehow). I often run a lap, walk a lap. Plus it has 5 or 6 pre-programmed workouts that aren't bad. I use the, ah.. er.. Fat Burning workout a lot.

I espesially like the heartrate monitor. I helps me to keep my HR over 130 for the entire workout while not going over 185 (don't want that thing to blow like an over-revved engine).

There is one thing I can complain about. If I slow down too fast or don't run as fast as the treadmill is going, it will slip back about 1/4 or 1/2 inch. Not too bad, just enough to open my eyes. I am used to it now, so it doesn't happen very often, but I haven't experienced that quirk on other treadmils (gyms, hotels, etc). I think I paid $2550ish delivered and setup. It weighs a TON, so you might want to pay for set up.

Not sure how the features compare to the 9.1, but it can't be too different.

HTH, jared

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RUGBY
[B]Thanks ElTianti,

I expected to pay between $1,500 & $2,000 so the pacemaster is within budget, I'll have to go down to the local dealer and check it out.

One question, do you find the running surface long enough.

 

have you given any thoughts to those eliptical type, low impact exercise machines? i used to jog (on a treadmill) and i get a better workout in 30 minutes of the low impact machine than the treadmill in 45 minutes.

 

Mingster,

I belonged to a gym . . . about 40 lbs ago . I used elliptical, stairs, bikes and treadmills for cardio work. I enjoyed the treadmill the best and didn't find the other to be significantly more beneficial (qualitative, not quantitative).

Thanks,
Michael

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RUGBY
[B]Mingster,

I belonged to a gym . . . about 40 lbs ago .