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Problems With Proform Walkers

Jun 14, 2011 | By Chris Blank

Proform is the brand name for a budget line of treadmills manufactured by ICON Health and Fitness Ltd., the same company that makes NordicTrack treadmills and a sales leader in the treadmill market. Proform treadmills feature an attractive array of features for the price, and are often available for less than $1,000, as of December 2010. Nonetheless, Proform treadmills have definite drawbacks, especially for serious athletes and heavier users.

Overstated Weight Limits

Like many budget manufacturers, Proform tends to overstate the weight ratings for their treadmills. Several models feature underpowered motors and less durable parts and construction that cannot stand up to the wear and tear treadmills often receive. Heavier runners should opt for treadmills with more powerful motors and sturdy construction that can withstand their weight, according to Treadmill Ratings Reviews.

For example, a machine suitable for distance training or runners who weigh more than 200 lbs. should have at least a 3 HP continuous duty motor. Treadmills with these specifications usually carry a price tag of least $1,500. The weight limit for the Proform 7.5 Distance Trainer with its 2.25 HP continuous duty motor should be set at 235 lbs. rather than 300 lbs., Treadmill Ratings Reviews claims.

Not Suited for Serious Training

Running or walking on a treadmill differs from running or walking outdoors, explains exercise physiologist Therese Ikonian on Internet Fitness. There is no wind resistance and the surface of the treadmill is flat. To compensate, exercisers should set the treadmill for a slightly faster speed or vary the incline of the platform during a workout.

For walking and casual exercise, Proform machines are fine. However, the consensus among reviewers is that the low cost for these machines comes at a price. Light duty parts that will not stand up to the demands of serious training or multiple users. The warranties for Proform models reflect this shortcoming, which range from 90 days for parts and labor to 2 years for parts and 1 year for labor, although several models feature a lifetime warranty for the motor.

iFit Live Problems

ICON Health heavily promotes the iFit Live feature on its treadmills which allows uses with a wi-fi connections access to Google Maps that they can download onto the display panels of the treadmill. The treadmill incline adjusts to match the features of the terrain featured on the display. However, the insert module and accompanying membership cost extra, Treadmill Ratings Reviews states. Treadmill Talk reports that users have encountered difficulties with the interface for the program with Google Maps along with internal system glitches.

References

Article reviewed by V. Mac Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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