Pro Form Treadmils - Sitting In The Front Of The Class

Pro Form treadmils are class leaders in the economy price-range with most Pro Form treadmill models selling for around $1000, give-or-take.

Proform is a subsidiary of Icon Health and Fitness, Inc., the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world and maker of Nordic Track, Welso, Gold's Gym, Image, and Healthrider treadmills, in addition to Proform.

Icon is often criticized for using overseas parts and production facilities and for trading off quality for features, but, while Proform suffers from this image, its models are also often rated as Best Buys and good values.

Some, like the XP series made for Sears, are made exclusively for large discount retailers who back up Proform's weak warranty with their own guarantees, extended warranties, and local service.

Take A Run For Your Money

Proform offers a wide variety of models with various motor sizes, incline levels, deck and running surface areas, and weight capacities, all of which should meet just about anyone's expectations, short of users wanting high-intensity, multi-user capabilities and options.

Many Proform models include pulse grip sensors for heart monitoring or remote chest straps for heart rate program control over speed and incline.

Proform models stress extras like iFit®, Icon's interactive technology that provides workouts on CD or online.

Some, like the Crosswalk Series, have handlebars similar to those found on ellipticals to provide an upper/lower body workout. And all Proform models incorporate SpaceSaver™ fold-away design; Proform pioneered the concept.

Warranties on Proform treadmills are typical of Icon products -  Motors are usually for a few years, depending on the model, but the rest of the coverage is only for 90 days.

Most large retailers and online suppliers offer extended coverage.

Pro form may be a lower-priced brand, and you'll probably get what you paid for, but there's a lot to be said for highly rated value.