As a former D1 athlete, I love a challenge. After being humbled by the TrueForm Trainer, I was eager for more on the TrueForm Runner. Even with my competition days behind me, I still have a constant urge to improve, to be better every day.
From the moment my heel-striking foot landed on the slat belt, I knew the TrueForm Runner was unlike any treadmill I had ever run on. Along with its shallow-curved deck that is a haven for athletes of all sports, the Runner is one of the most heavy-duty treadmills I’ve had the honor of “testing”-aka running as many miles as possible.
Now that I’ve caught my breath, I can’t wait to share how our testing (mine and our teams) went. Is this practically indestructible treadmill only meant for the pros on the sidelines at sporting events, or is this the treadmill you need to finally unlock the unlimited training potential you’ve been yearning for? You’ll find everything you need to know about the TrueForm Runner below.
TrueForm Trainer Manual Treadmill Review: Bottom Line
TrueForm Runner vs. Similar Treadmills
Along with extensively using a model and putting it to the test during our review process, we also like to draw some comparisons between popular models. You’ll find comparisons throughout this review below, as well as in the chart.
TrueForm Runner | AssaultRunner Elite | AssaultRunner Pro | TrueForm Trainer | Rogue | Woodway Curve LTG | |
Price (MSRP) | |||||
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Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | This manual treadmill has a gentle slope and a cushioned slat belt for a more natural running stride. | The AssaultRunner Elite manual treadmill lets you run as fast as you can with its unlimited speed potential and smooth rolling slat belt. | The AssaultRunner Pro is an affordable manual treadmill with a belt that should last 150,000 miles. | With the subtlest curve of any manual treadmill, the TrueForm Trainer encourages better running form while its low-tech console minimizes distractions from your workout. | The Rogue | Woodway Curve LTG is built on a long heritage of quality curved manual treadmills. |
Awards Earned | |||||
Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Product | TrueForm Runner | AssaultRunner Elite | AssaultRunner Pro | TrueForm Trainer | Rogue | Woodway Curve LTG |
Workout Experience | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
Specs / Features | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
Dimensions / Storability | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
On-Board Workouts & Apps | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 |
Build Quality | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
Overall Score | 82 | 83 | 84 | 81 | 82 |
# of Onboard Workouts | 1 | 8 | 7 | 1 | 6 |
Paid Programming - Cost | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Display | Bright LED Rechargeable Battery | Hi-contrast. UV resistant console | UV resistant console | LCD Battery (Bluetooth optional) | LCD |
Dimensions (In Use) | 64" L x 36" W x 63" H | 69.9″ L x 31.7″ W x 64.4″ H | 69.7″ L x 33.1″ W x 64″ H | 64″ L x 31″ W x 63″ H | 67" L x 34" W x 70" H |
Deck Size | 17" x 64" | 17″ x 65″ | 17″ x 62″ | 17″ x 54″ | 17" x 62" |
Folding? | |||||
Treadmill Weight | 350 lbs | 289.2 lbs | 280 lbs | 300 lbs | 297 lbs |
Weight Capacity | 700 lbs (walking), 450 lbs (running) | 400 lbs | 350 lbs | 400 lbs | 350 lbs |
Motor Size | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Max Speed | Unlimited | Unlimited | unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Incline/Decline | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Warranty | 10-year frame | 10-year frame, lifetime belt, 3-year non-wear parts, 1-year parts & labor | 150,000-mile belt, 5-year frame, 3-year moving parts | 10-year frame | 5-year frame, 3-year belt, 3-year moving parts, 1-year wear items, 1-year labor |
Additional Features | tread surface options: tread, turf, track, Naboso; custom paint and decals, shallow deck curvature | Bluetooth, ANT+, AssaultFitness app, Zwift app | Bluetooth, phone holder, cushioned slats | Customizable frame and belt surface, shallowest curve | TPE slat belt, rated for residential & light commercial use, 3% deck curvature |
Annie rivera says
Will you make a video about this and if it is worth the money of going from an electric to manual? I have read that electric treadmills only work your hip flexors and manual curved are like walking/running outside.
Kacey says
Annie,
There are several benefits to using a manual treadmill. They are more challenging and help the user develop a proper mid-foot strike while running since you have to move the belt along manually underneath you. However, they have less cushion and are not ideal for anyone with balance or mobility issues. If you are an experienced runner or conditioned athlete looking for more advanced training, then a manual treadmill may be the right choice. For those who are looking for everyday conditioning with a bit more cushion for joint comfort, then we recommend a standard treadmill. We have done a review of the Peloton Tread, which is a slat belt treadmill with both motorized and manual functionality. You can find that review here and the YouTube video is here.
Miguel says
Great review!
Despite your warnings, the only place I have for it is in my bedroom. Which is on the second floor of a condo. Would the noise/vibrations be unbearable for my downstairs neighbors?
Thank you
Miguel
Kristen Nelson says
Miguel,
As much as I love the TrueForm Runner, I wouldn’t recommend it for a second floor condo. It is a very large machine that weighs 340 pounds. Most of the manual treadmills are best suited for a main floor (slab on grade). The noise would be significant for downstairs neighbors and you may find it a challenge to actually get the box up to your floor. It would also require disassembly if you needed to move. Best of luck to you!