Best Proform Treadmill – Which Model Should You Choose?

Do you want to get fit without leaving the comfort of your home? Feeling cautious or skeptical about which treadmill is actually as promising as it says on the label? Even if you don’t know your way around fitness equipment, and you’re just starting out, ProForm is one brand that is definitely worth your attention.

With state-of-the-art features, professional quality, and a wide price range, their commercial treadmills have a lot to offer. But which models live up to the ProForm name? Is there a potential contender for the title of best ProForm treadmill?

In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks

How Am I Qualified to Write About These Products?

When it comes to long-standing and committed workout routines, I’ve done my fair share. I’m no stranger to the world of fitness, starting out as an enthusiastic gym-goer and later venturing into the world of home workouts.

The main reason for the switch lies partially in the convenience of having whatever piece of equipment I need within reach at all times. Going back and forth to the gym became more of a hassle after my fitness routine had already become an integral part of my life. The commute and general stress of urban living only added unnecessary pressure to a habit that is meant to keep me healthy and happy.

The other part of my decision was the pandemic. With it came the need to stay informed and indoors while also trying to maintain my progress. And treadmills in particular, being one of the most versatile pieces of equipment, were a superb fit for my new routine. There’s no bad weather that can ruin your workout, you don’t have to bear the sound of traffic, and you can take it with you if needed.

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Who Is This Guide For?

This may be useful for any all-around home gym enthusiast looking for a quality treadmill that’s worth their investment. It doesn’t matter if you’ve navigated the training waters for some time or if you’re just putting on your swim trunks – you can still benefit from the ever-evolving technology of ProForm and the specifications that come with it.

Not only does the brand focus on making working out as easy and comfortable as possible, but they also offer a wide range of models that target different budgets and levels of intensity. You don’t have to go out of your way to reap the benefits of a machine that meets your specific needs.

How We Picked the Best Products

Putting our subjective take on the matter aside, we had to look at all the aspects that make up this series of treadmills from other perspectives as well. And since the vast chasm of the internet is stock-full of information and opinions, we didn’t have to dig too deep in order to get our hands on the facts.

To begin with, we saw through the lens of users in online communities like Reddit and Quora, many of which have already given their two cents about ProForm devices through first-hand experiences. And even those who haven’t had the chance to try them out yet were still sharing their reservations or expectations based on third-party accounts.

We also consulted professional review websites and expert opinions from reputable fitness professionals who have years of experience with different models. Some of the websites we looked into include Jay’s Home Gym and Treadmill Review Guru.

As the icing on the cake, we rounded it all up by checking out consumer reviews on Amazon, Titan and Rogue. These websites have provided us with uncensored opinions from customers who have already purchased and tested out these devices, with varying degrees of success.

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How We Compared Each Product

Once all the data was collected, we then proceeded to put the eligible products on the chopping block and compare them side-by-side. Since each option has its own unique set of features and specs, we were able to put them on a fair playing field and draw comparisons on several emerging factors.

• Motor Capacity – The main driving force behind a treadmill, the motor’s capacity will determine how well your machine can handle your workout regime. The greater the power, the more capable it is of keeping up with your pace.
• Incline Adjustments – In order to get a truly engaging workout, you have to modify the incline to create a more demanding path. As you progress further, the steeper angles will help you increase your endurance and build strength over time. But what’s the maximum incline each machine can handle?
• Frame Design – Regardless of your current weight and fitness goals, having a wonky frame is a surefire way to have a bad time. Not only can it hinder your performance, but it may also increase the risk of sustaining an injury. Which product is designed for optimal support?
• Deck Cushioning – Ergonomics is sadly an often overlooked aspect of treadmills in favor of the more flashy features. But having a deck that can provide adequate cushioning is your ticket to a fuss-free and effective workout. But how much shock absorption do you really get?
• Performance Features – With the ever-advancing digital world, we often need the help of technology to get us to our desired goals. For treadmills, this can be anything from Bluetooth integration and tracking apps to trainer-led workouts and additional subscription offers.

The Products

So, how did the products fair? Which one takes the cake for the best ProForm treadmill in a tight race? While they’re all effective in their own right, there’s only one that we can confidently call the top pick.

ProForm Pro 9000 – The Best Overall

Arguably the leader of the pack, the Pro 9000 packs a massive list of features in what is one of the flashiest machines in the bunch. With a powerful motor that supports heavy training and marathon running, along with a heavy-duty steel frame, this behemoth is definitely a powerhouse. All of this is wrapped up in a sleek and stylish package, with a ton of tech features that make your workout even more engaging.

Key Specs

Machine Size	77.3″ L X 35.3″ W X 59.6″ H
Motor Capacity	3.6 HP
Maximum Incline	-3 to 12%
Maximum User Weight Capacity	300 lbs

Why It’s Great

Perhaps the first thing you notice when you look at this beauty is its crisp and detailed 22-inch touchscreen display. It’s not just a pleasure to look at, with stunning graphics and an intuitive UI, but it’s also incredibly functional. You can access thousands of built-in workout programs through the iFit library, with automatic adjustments to your max speed and incline range.

One of the most widely-advertised features is the virtual training experience with onboard content, which lets you explore routes in different locations around the world with the help of Google Maps. It even simulates a realistic outdoor running experience with recreated changes in terrain and elevation by taking advantage of Street View whenever it’s available.

Plus, the machine has a responsive deck that uses the ProShox cushioning system to reduce the shock from your feet. It’s more than enough for runners weighing up to 300 lbs, with a keen focus on structure and support in order to prevent injuries. The whole system is air-based, so when you step on the treadmill belt, the air chamber compresses to minimize the impact by up to 28%.

ProForm Smart Pro 2000 – The Best Incline Adjustments

Primarily seen as a mid-level treadmill that’s on par with its more expensive counterparts, the ProForm Smart Pro 2000 holds its own on this list thanks to its clever 15 percent incline range. This opens up a diverse scale of training variables that can be used to tone and shape specific muscle groups. If you pair this with the solid motor specs to back it up, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive machine at this price range.

Key Specs

Machine Size	79″ L X 39.15″ W X 71.4″ H
Motor Capacity	3.5 HP
Maximum Incline	-3-15%
Maximum User Weight Capacity	300 lbs

Why It’s Great

The main draw of the Pro 2000 is its vast incline range, which helps you modify your training for specific goals. You can do anything from rolling hill intervals and downhill sprints to incline circuits and full-body toning. This kind of variability helps keep overuse injuries at bay while diversifying your routine to keep it fresh and consistently challenging.

Another thing that sets this model apart from the rest is the one-year iFit subscription service that’s included right off the bat. The app-based workout library has over 50 workout styles and studio treadmill classes with a personal trainer, including strength and cardio plans. You can also benefit from off-the-treadmill activities, such as yoga, stretching, and core exercises.

Finally, the CoolAire fan that’s located in the front of the console just under the display screen helps you stay cool and comfortable even when the going gets tough. It has four power settings, and you can adjust the direction to blow air in your face or toward the ground. If you want a completely hassle-free experience, you can turn on the auto-fan feature and the machine will increase or decrease the fan speed depending on your workout intensity.

ProForm Performance 600i – The Most Affordable Price

Despite an originally higher price tag for the base model, the ProForm Performance 600i was eventually streamlined for a more budget-friendly appeal. Naturally, some compromises had to be made to lower the cost of production, but that doesn’t mean this machine isn’t worth its weight in gold. The end result is an overall solid treadmill with a respectable slate of features that certainly won’t disappoint.

Key Specs

Machine Size	59.25″ L X 36.63″ W X 79.62″ H
Motor Capacity	2.75 HP
Maximum Incline	0 – 12%
Maximum User Weight Capacity	325 lbs

Why It’s Great

This budget treadmill gives you more than enough to stay in shape and challenge yourself, with a slightly smaller than usual deck and a 2.75 CHP Mach Z motor that can still reach speeds of up to 12 mph. You can use the numbered buttons for speed customization, either by whole numbers or by 0.1 increments for a more exact routine.

The device also has a durable frame design, with two handles and side rails that offer a bit less support than other models. It doesn’t necessarily shake when you run at a faster pace, but the tread belt does have a tendency to slightly sway from side to side. But even so, the built-in ProShox cushioning offers a comfortable deck and helps absorb the shock of your every step.

In terms of optional subscription offers, the iFit service is once again available with access to interactive studio classes and personal training sessions with certified professionals from all over the world. While it doesn’t have some of the more advanced slate of features, you do get 22 ultra-motivating workouts that let you target specific body parts for greater accuracy.

ProForm Carbon T7 – Best Folding Model

For anyone that wants a compact treadmill that can deliver a powerful performance, the ProForm Carbon T7 might be just what you’re looking for. Despite its foldable design and smaller footprint, this device has a lot to offer with a reasonable 2.6 HP motor and a somewhat smaller tread belt with 1.9″ balanced, non-flex rollers. Of course, these special features were necessary modifications to optimize the machine’s portability.

Key Specs

Machine Size	73.5″ L X 35.2″ W X 57.5″ H
Motor Capacity	2.6 HP
Maximum Incline	0 – 10%
Maximum User Weight Capacity	300 lbs

Why It’s Great

Starting off with the obvious, the ProForm Carbon T7 is a very light and easily maneuverable machine that can be tucked away for storage with just a few quick moves. While you’ll have to use the manual mode to fold the device, given the lack of hydraulic lift and lower assist, the overall process is relatively simple.

The LCD monitor, though small, offers an intuitive layout with several control buttons that give you complete access to the console. It also comes with a set of 2-inch speakers on either side for a more immersive running experience. And, of course, the 7″ display screen is clear and bright enough to see all your progress in real-time.

As far as subscription offers go, the ProForm Carbon T7 comes with a 3-year iFit membership that gives you access to live and on-demand workouts for a more tailored routine. Although this is definitely a head-turning and cool feature, the lack of preset programs is a bit of a letdown, as is the absence of a fan to keep you cool during intense workouts.

The Buying Guide

Even among the most reputable treadmill brands, some aspects of performance and additional features can vary drastically from model to model. When comparing ProForm models, you need to pay attention to the following criteria to ensure you’re making the right treadmill purchase:

Belt Size

Of course, we all want a responsive deck with plenty of space for a comfortable run but we also want something that won’t take up too much space. Generally speaking, the commercial-grade standard is a 22″ x 60″ belt and appropriate deck cushioning, which is what you see on most of the ProForm models.

Bear in mind that a smaller belt size may be more suitable for walking and short jogs, while larger models are better suited for runners and demanding fitness regimes. This doesn’t mean smaller belts are worse per se, just that they might not offer the kind of support you’re looking for.

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Folding System

Given the limited space many of us have in our homes, getting a folding model is often a priority. Even though the electric folding system is the most convenient of all, it’s also prone to malfunctions and breakdowns, which is why the manual option has become more popular in recent years.

Fortunately, the latter is what you get for the Carbon T7, which offers a 90-degree folding deck that doesn’t feel too heavy or cumbersome when shifting the device from one place to another. You can easily store it beneath the bed or in a closet with no major effort.

Strong Warranties

As much as we want our fitness machines to last, we can’t exactly manifest that outcome. Accidents can always happen and there’s no telling when something might go wrong, which is why having an excellent warranty in place can make for a more enjoyable running experience.

The good news is that ProForm doesn’t have a weak warranty policy to begin with — most models come with at least a 12-month limited warranty on all parts and labor. However, you can also upgrade to more comprehensive packages on either the basic or extended protection plans.

Having strong warranties doesn’t just give you peace of mind but also ensures that your investment is being well taken care of. The parts you might need to replace after extended use can be expensive, and finding a relevant retailer isn’t the easiest task either.

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