Sydney - Guru Team

Since the Life Fitness Ride CX has a light flywheel, it is a bit easier to use when you first start pedaling and getting the flywheel moving. Lighter flywheels like this one are considered to be gentler on the joints because it takes less effort to move the flywheel. This bike and the ones from Sole all feel smooth when you use them though. It is really when you first get on and start pedaling that you can notice a difference in the flywheel weights. Once you get the flywheels moving and start adding and changing the resistance on all of these bikes, they all feel stable. I don't really notice a difference in the flywheels once I start adding on resistance and continue pedaling. The biggest difference between the Life Fitness Ride CX versus Sole's bikes is the placement of the flywheel. Since the Ride CX has a rear flywheel it is less prone to corrosion, because it is less likely to get sweat and water on it while you're using it. The Ride CX doesn't necessarily put you in more of an aerodynamic position than the Sole, but the drop handlebars on the Ride CX could help encourage more of that positioning since they offer a lower grip option. All of these bikes' handles go up plenty high enough for our tallest reviewer who is 6'5" to get a comfortable bike fit.

We aren't aware if new models of these treadmills will be coming out this year, or not. We have both of the current models and we highly recommend them both. The 7.8 AT is great for interval training because the motor adjusts the speed and inclines quickly. The cushioning is also a little softer than the F85. The F85 has a heavier weight capacity and the option to stream from apps like Netflix on the screen, rather than having to use your own device to stream like on the 7.8 AT. Feel free to let us know if you have any more questions about these models, so that we might be able to help you make a choice between the two.

I have to reach a bit further on the IC4. The Sole SB700's saddle adjusts a little bit more forward than the Schwinn IC4 bike. So, the IC3 might have a similar adjustment range to the IC4, but I can't say for sure since I haven't been on it.

Unfortunately, we don't have the Schwinn IC3 bike in our studio, but when I use the Sole SB700 I have the handles just about all the way back towards the seat and the seat back a few notches. I'm about 5'1". There are only a few bikes that have too far of a reach for me but they all have touch screens and only up/down adjustability in the handlebars. Both of these bikes however have 4 adjustment points, the seat and handles adjust up/down, and forward/back, which is better for fitting a wider range of users.

I apologize, I completely forgot to add links to our reviews of these treadmills. Here's the Assault Runner Elite, NordicTrack 2450, Sole F80, and Horizon 7.8AT. Here's also the NordicTrack 1750, Sole F63, and Horizon T101. We are updating the reviews for both of the NordicTrack treadmills to include the new 2022 models, so these are the 2021 models still FYI. Hopefully, this gives you a bit more information about each of these treadmills.

Flat-belt manual treadmills are much smaller than curved-belt manual treadmills and are meant for walking only. They do save a lot of space, and most have a deck that folds up, plus they're typically a lot lighter than curved-belt treadmills and they can be quieter too. They are however significantly cheaper, so you won't be getting the same level of quality as a curved-belt manual treadmill. You could check out the Stamina Inmotion T900 Treadmill and there are a number of manual treadmills from Sunny Health & Fitness that all offer different features. Just forewarning that if you're hoping for a treadmill like the Woodway, you'll probably find these options underwhelming. Some of the quietest motorized treadmills we've tested are the NordicTrack 2450, NordicTrack 1750, the Sole F80, Sole F63, the Horizon 7.8 AT, and Horizon T101. All of these treadmills have worked really well for us, and we haven't had problems with any of these brands' customer service. The NordicTrack Treadmills have the softest cushioning for shock absorption, while the Sole treadmills feel firmer to use but still provide good shock absorption. The Horizon Treadmills' cushioning is in between these other treadmills. It feels soft underfoot, just not quite as soft as NordicTrack. The treadmills from Sole and Horizon have simple LCD consoles that come with preprogrammed workouts, while the NordicTrack treadmills include attached touch screens and are enabled with the interactive training program, iFit. iFit requires a monthly subscription to access the full library of guided workouts. You don't need iFit to use either the NordicTrack 2450 or the 1750 though. All of these models should handle the level of use you're looking to do, well. Although you'll probably get a bit more use out of the higher-end options from each of these brands, which are the NordicTrack 2450, Sole F80, and Horizon 7.8 AT. All of these treadmills fold up when they're not in use and have incline options. The NordicTrack treadmills also decline. Please let me know if you have any more questions!

Thanks for this information. Since you're comfortable with walking on a curved manual treadmill, then I would recommend the AssaultRunner Elite. It is lighter than the Trueform Trainer so it will most likely be a lot easier to get upstairs. We haven't tested the Trueform Trainer so we can't speak to its durability, but the AssaultRunner Elite in our experience is extremely durable and should handle that level of use with ease. We've never had any issues with Assault's customer service either. Before knowing how comfortable you are with using a curved manual treadmill, I was going to recommend some flat-belt manual treadmills but they're much smaller and don't sound like something you're looking for. With whichever curved manual treadmill you decide to go with, I would highly suggest placing a mat underneath it and placing it on carpet, if you're able. Both of these should help absorb some of the sound from the treadmill.

Both of these bikes are great options. I would say if you want to clip into the pedals, the Schwinn IC3 has hybrid pedals to either clip in or strap into the toe cages, so I would go with that one. If you don't want to clip in and want a bike with a more extensive warranty, then go with the Sole SB700, it has a lifetime warranty for the frame.

Hi, thanks for your question. When starting a workout regimen, we strongly encourage folks to consult with their healthcare provider prior to starting. There are some treadmills on the market that are great for walking and I would look into one with front and side handles, as well as soft cushioning. You might also want to look into stationary bikes like recumbent bikes. These offer a lower-impact activity than walking on a treadmill, which might be better for joint pain. Since you're wanting to build up strength in your legs, a stationary bike could help too, since they primarily work your legs. For starting out, definitely start slow and listen to your body. For using either type of machine, you don't want to overdo it. I would start with a length of time and pace that feels doable and then gradually work up from there. If you're interested in a treadmill or stationary bike, let us know and we can help suggest specific models.

Thanks for your question. Most treadmills from Sole and Horizon come with included chest strap heart rate monitors. These are meant to be worn against your skin for accurate readings. The treadmills also have built-in heart rate programs, too for heart rate training. I can suggest a specific model with some more information. How are you planning on using your treadmill? Do you want one for walking and/or running? How often and how long were you hoping to use it? What kind of space do you have for it? Do you need one that has a folding deck to save space? Do you want extra entertainment in addition to the onboard workouts? Treadmills from NordicTrack and ProForm also utilize heart rate training in their fitness subscription iFit which has guided workouts with a virtual trainer. These treadmills use an armband heart rate monitor, but it is sold separately. In our testing, we've found all of these brands that I've mentioned to be reliable and they make solid treadmills.

There are certainly a lot of great treadmills for walking on the market. With some more information, I can recommend a specific model or two. How much space do you have for the treadmill? Do you need one that folds up, or stores out of the way, or do you have a designated space for it? How often were you planning on using the treadmill? Would you like one with a touch screen attached and some entertainment, like guided walks? Or are you looking for one with a more straightforward console?

Treadmills aren't low impact because jogging/running is a high-impact exercise. However, treadmills usually have some level of cushioning built into the deck to help absorb the impact that comes with running and jogging. There are treadmills that feel softer underfoot than others. NordicTrack has some of the softest cushioning on treadmills we've tested. What are you hoping to do with your treadmill? How often are you hoping to use it? With a bit more information, I can suggest a specific model that has a high level of cushioning.

Hi, thanks for your questions. We recommend curved manual treadmills, like the Trueform, for running rather than just walking. From our experience, these kinds of treadmills have a bit of a learning curve when you first start using them, they require a bit more concentration to use since your feet control the speed of the deck, and they're meant for running at high speeds. They can make a good amount of noise too, so I don't think it would be suitable for an upstairs condo. I would check out manual flat-belt walking treadmills, they're smaller, lighter, made for walking, and should produce less noise. We also have tested some quiet motorized treadmills. Are you just planning on using the treadmill for walking? How often were you hoping to use the treadmill? Are you set on a manual treadmill? With a bit more information, I can suggest specific models.

Hi, thanks for your question. If you haven't already, be sure to get clearance from your doctor to start running again. Assuming that you already have, it's important to start slow and listen to your body. I would begin with walking only, assuming you haven't been able to move around much with a broken ankle. Once you feel up to it, try increasing your walking pace and go for longer periods of time. It's when these begin to feel easy, you could try adding in light jogging increments with the walking. From there, is where you can slowly increase your pace. It takes time to build endurance as well as a consistent, sustainable workout routine. Walking can be done every day, but we don't recommend running every day, especially when you're just starting out. It's important to give your body rest to allow your muscles to recover. Are you hoping to just get back into running? I'm only asking because running is a high-impact activity, so it can put a lot of stress on your joints and legs. Equipment like exercise bikes, rowing machines, and ellipticals are low-impact so you don't get stress on the joints like you do with running, but you'll get similar benefits with these activities.

Yes, we have a list of best compact treadmills that all fold that you can check out. Were you looking for a treadmill with a deck that folds up or one that folds flat? What are you hoping to do on the treadmill? With a bit more information I can recommend a specific treadmill.

Are you referring to the warmup period or when you start the interval training portion? For a warmup, I would try to spend about 5-10 minutes warming up, doing things like brisk walking for a few minutes, and then maybe move up to jogging. Pick a pace that works for you and doesn't feel strenuous during the warmup to let your body properly warm up. Towards the end of the warmup, you could then start including slower, shorter intervals that aren't quite as long or as fast as the intervals you are planning to do during your workout. For interval training, you'll vary your speed. The speed levels and how long you hold them for are going to be up to you and your fitness level. If you're wanting to do a shorter, more intense training session, then higher speeds are best for a higher intensity level. If you're wanting to do intervals for a longer period of time, then you'll want to pick speeds and lengths of time that you can sustain for the duration of the workout. Interval training can look like this: (assuming you're properly warmed up first) Walking for 1 minute and then jogging/running for 30 seconds repeated for the duration of your workout. Interval training can also look like this: Jogging/running for 3 minutes, then walking for 1 minute repeated for the duration of your workout. You can also increase your speeds during the intervals, too. What speeds and for how long you stay at them is entirely up to you and what you can handle and how you want to train. Over time, you'll find that you can jog or run faster for longer periods of time than when you start. It's important to listen to your body to determine what you can handle and what is best for you. I don't recommend going to the max when you're just starting out.

Manual treadmills that are compact and usually fold up with flat belts are typically only suitable for walking because of their small deck size. Curved belt manual treadmills like the AssaultRunner Elite are made for running at all speeds.

Great question. What kind of climate do you live in? Does it get really cold or really hot and humid? Climates like these can cause damage to treadmills if they're not inside a temperature-controlled space. I wouldn't recommend placing a treadmill in your garage if you live in an area with extreme temperatures and the garage isn't temperature-controlled. For a dusty garage, you're going to need to clean the treadmill a bit more to make sure dust doesn't get under the belt and in the motor. which can cause damage too. I would place a cover on it when you're not using it to help with the dust, and regularly clean under the treadmill.

Thanks for your question. We haven't tested the TRX3500, but have tested the TRX5500 from Xterra. Our experience with this treadmill is that it's solid and similarly constructed to treadmills from Sole which are known to be really hearty machines. Both of these brands are owned by the same parent company so it makes sense that they have similar qualities. We haven't had any issues with Xterra's customer service either. The TRX3500's motor size, weight capacity, and lifetime warranty are excellent indicators of a well-built treadmill. In our experience with using treadmills under $1000 is that they can still be of great quality, especially if they're from reputable brands and if they're properly cared for and regularly maintained. Good luck with your new treadmill and check back with us on how it's doing, we'd love to hear how it's working for you and how you're enjoying it.

For an affordable treadmill, I'd check out the Sole F63. It's a great value treadmill that has a 325 lb weight capacity and is best for walking, jogging, and light running. For more options, you can check out our best cheap treadmills list. All but one of the treadmills on this list have a weight capacity of at least 300 lbs.

Some of the quietest treadmills that we've tested with at least a 15% incline are the NordicTrack 1750, NordicTrack 2450, Sole F80, and Horizon 7.8 AT. The first two from NordicTrack have attached touch screens and subscription workout content, the 1750 has a smaller screen than the 2450. The Sole F80 and Horizon 7.8 AT both have simple consoles with onboard workouts. All of these incline up to 15% and the NordicTrack treadmills decline to -3%. If you want more than a 15% incline then I would check out the NordicTrack x22i Incline Trainer. It inclines up to 40%, declines, and is quiet, too. I've included links to all of our reviews of these treadmills. The NordicTrack reviews are of the 2021 models, but we are working on updating them to include pictures and information on the new 2022 models. Besides an incline, what else were you looking for in a treadmill? I'd be happy to help you narrow your search more if you can give me a little more information about how you want to use the treadmill.

Hi Bill, thanks for your question! Based on the information that you've given us, I would check out the Horizon 7.4 AT, Horizon 7.8 AT, and the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. All of these treadmills fit into this criteria. The Horizon treadmills have nice cushioning in the deck and lower-tech consoles. The 1750 has slightly softer cushioning, so a little more shock absorption, and a 14" touch screen. For the NordicTrack 1750, you will have to pay a monthly subscription for iFit which is the training app available on the touch screen, in order to use the heart rate training feature with a compatible heart rate tracker. The heart rate training program comes built-in on the Horizon treadmills. I've included links to our reviews of each of these treadmills, so you can learn more about them. The NordicTrack 1750 review will be updated soon to include information and images of the new 2022 model, currently, this is the 2021 model. Please let me know if you have any questions.

It depends on what kind of sprints you're doing. If you're doing short sprints, like Tabata, then hopping onto the side rails in between each set will be more efficient than dropping the speed. If you're doing longer intervals, you'll probably want to adjust the speed up and down throughout. It can be a little dangerous to hop on and off the side rails in between sprints especially if the treadmill is at a high speed, so I always make sure to use the handles for balance during these when I'm getting on and off the belt.

Thanks for your question. I would look at the Botorro R5, the Echelon Stride, and the ProForm City L6. All of these treadmills are lightweight and compact.

As far as a budget-friendly option, I would check out the Sole E25 Elliptical. We haven't tested this model in particular, but I've linked our spec review of it. In our experience, Sole makes really stable equipment, and they back up the construction with a lifetime warranty for the frame, 350 lb weight capacity, and a heavy 20 lb flywheel.