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ProForm 350 Treadmill Review
Well, if you've read any of our exercise equipment reviews you'll have gathered that we're not exactly fans of budget treadmills. With prices coming down and quality going up, there are now some decent treadmills under $1,000 available, but under $400? It's great that manufacturers are catering for this end of the market, but can you really make a decent treadmill at this price? Let's find out...
ProForm 350 Treadmill Review - Features...As far as the essentials go, the 350 has a 2.25 THP motor, which actually delivers just 1.5 HP continuous duty. 2.25 HP is the peak power output, 1.5 HP the continuous power output, which is more important. This is really only adequate for walking, not jogging or running. The treadmill reaches up to 10mph - but it's straining at that speed - and has a power incline of up to 10%. The belt is a mere 50" by 17", which is a very compact running surface and really only suitable for people around 5'6" or 5'7" to stretch out on. Even then it's going to be tight. What also concerns me is the cushioning on the deck. The ProSoft Impact Absorption seems to absorb very little of the impact and with continuous use may become uncomfortable for your joints. The build quality is actually not bad for this price range and there are far more flimsy budget treadmills around. But even so, the 350 doesn't feel particularly stable and I'd question its durability in the long term. Whilst ProForm claims that it's suitable for users up to 250lbs, I'd be a little bit more conservative in my estimates! Especially as this is a folding treadmill. The electronic features and controls are limited to a power and incline control, cooling fans, some grip pulse sensors and a MyCalories centre with an LCD display. No workout programs at this price! I am impressed by the three year warranty on the motor, although the parts and labour warranties only run to 90 days. Again, you've got to remember that this is a budget treadmill retailing for under $400 and you get what you pay for, so I don't want to too hard on ProForm! I have seen the 350 retail for as much as $599, but to check out the best price - currently $399 - visit WorkoutWarehouse
Proform 350 Treadmill Review - The Bottom Line...There are two kinds of ProForm 350 treadmill review - those that expect the kind of build quality, performance and features that you get on leading treadmills aimed at the home and light commercial market - like Sole, for instance.And those that treat it at face value - an affordable treadmill, which isn't going to fall apart after a few weeks, but is unlikely to be good for much more than walking. We're erring towards the latter. If you're looking for a compact, folding machine that will take up little room in the corner, then this may be a good choice for you. However, tall people, heavy people and runners should look elswhere. Our ProForm 350 treadmill review would conclude that this is a reasonable machine for the money if you're on a tight budget. However, you simply can't make a quality treadmill with a decent motor, sturdy frame and good cushioning at this price. If you do want more information and the latest price, then check out WorkoutWarehouse
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