Horizon offers a line of treadmills that range from no-frills, ultra-compact folding models to the sturdy, full-sized T6 model that can stand up to light commercial use. Life Fitness treadmills are like an up-sized version of Horizon treadmills, with more powerful motors and larger running decks intended for heavier use, for which you can expect to pay.
Motor and Speed
Horizon treadmill motors range from 1.25 to 3.0 continuous horsepower, with maximum speeds ranging from 6 mph on the ultra-compact space saving Evolve models to 12 mph on larger models.
Most Life Fitness treadmills feature a 3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor, except for the Club and Platinum Club models, which have a 4.0 horsepower motor. All Life Fitness treadmills have a maximum speed of 12 mph, except for the F3, which has a maximum speed of 10 mph.
Incline
Most Horizon treadmills offer a 10 to 12 percent maximum incline, with the exception of the T6, which adjusts up to a 15 percent incline. The Life Fitness F3 adjusts from 0 to 12 percent incline; all other Life Fitness models have a maximum incline of 15 percent.
Maximum User Weight
Maximum user weight limits for Horizon treadmills range from 250 lb. on the ultra-compact Evolve models to 400 lb. on the full-size Horizon T6. User weight limits for Life Fitness treadmills range from 350 to 400 lb.
Features
Both Horizon and Life Fitness treadmills offer a surprising number of similar features, including cushioned running decks, in-console iPod chargers and customizable exercise programs.
Standout Horizon treadmills include the ultra-compact Evolve models' ability to fit beneath a bed or couch, in-console iPod controls, the trademarked Advanced Goal Center to help you set and meet short- and long-term goals and a wireless pedometer included with the Horizon WT751 to track your every step, even when you're not on the treadmill.
Standout features on Life Fitness treadmills include touch screen displays, a Polar wireless heart rate chest strap included with some models, iPod video compatibility, multiple user profiles, a race mode that lets you compete with a computer-simulated racer and an online Life Fitness Virtual Trainer that lets you create and track custom workouts.
Cost
As of May 2010, Horizon treadmills cost from $500 to over $2,000 for the T6 model. Life Fitness treadmills cost from $2,500 to $7,000, depending on base unit and console selected.
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