In 2022, I graduated with a master’s degree in running. Okay, my degree is in Biomechanics, but it’s close enough. My interest is piqued when a treadmill makes claims, like the TrueForm Trainer, that it can improve your running form. Everyone wants to improve their running form, but can it actually do it?
I used to get injured at least once every six months, but the frequency declined after I studied biomechanics. I know a thing (or two) about running form after 15 years of trial and error. If the TrueForm Trainer can help you make the same changes I did in a fraction of the time, I want to know about it and share it with you.
TrueForm designed the TrueForm Trainer to be the most natural-feeling manual treadmill. Its unique construction is designed to reward you when you run well and punish you when you don’t. I’m skeptical of its claims, but we’ll walk through the design of this treadmill together. Follow along as I evaluate its construction and performance.
TrueForm Trainer Manual Treadmill Review: Bottom Line
TrueForm Trainer vs. Similar Treadmills
We compared the TrueForm Trainer manual treadmill to other comparable treadmills. These manual treadmills do not require electricity, have unlimited speed capabilities, and have slat belts, but they differ in several ways.
 TrueForm Trainer |  AssaultRunner Pro |  AssaultRunner Elite |  TrueForm Runner | |
| Price (MSRP) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | ||||
| Bottom Line | 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 AssaultRunner Pro is an affordable manual treadmill with a belt that should last 150,000 miles. | The AssaultRunner Elite manual treadmill lets you run as fast as you can with its unlimited speed potential and smooth rolling slat belt. | This manual treadmill has a gentle slope and a cushioned slat belt for a more natural running stride. |
| Awards Earned | ||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Product | TrueForm Trainer | AssaultRunner Pro | AssaultRunner Elite | TrueForm Runner |
| Workout Experience | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Specs / Features | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Dimensions / Storability | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
| On-Board Workouts & Apps | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 |
| Build Quality | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
| Overall Score | 81 | 84 | 83 | 82 |
| # of Onboard Workouts | 1 | 7 | 8 | 1 |
| Paid Programming - Cost | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Display | LCD Battery (Bluetooth optional) | UV resistant console | Hi-contrast. UV resistant console | Bright LED Rechargeable Battery |
| Dimensions (In Use) | 64″ L x 31″ W x 63″ H | 69.7″ L x 33.1″ W x 64″ H | 69.9″ L x 31.7″ W x 64.4″ H | 64" L x 36" W x 63" H |
| Deck Size | 17″ x 54″ | 17″ x 62″ | 17″ x 65″ | 17" x 64" |
| Folding? | ||||
| Treadmill Weight | 300 lbs | 280 lbs | 289.2 lbs | 350 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs | 350 lbs | 400 lbs | 700 lbs (walking), 450 lbs (running) |
| Motor Size | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Max Speed | Unlimited | unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Incline/Decline | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Warranty | 10-year frame | 150,000-mile belt, 5-year frame, 3-year moving parts | 10-year frame, lifetime belt, 3-year non-wear parts, 1-year parts & labor | 10-year frame |
| Additional Features | Customizable frame and belt surface, shallowest curve | Bluetooth, phone holder, cushioned slats | Bluetooth, ANT+, AssaultFitness app, Zwift app | tread surface options: tread, turf, track, Naboso; custom paint and decals, shallow deck curvature |
Dimensions/Storability
A big difference between the Runner and the Trainer is the frame materials and weight. The Runner is heavier because the outer frame is made up of steel, while the Trainer is made up of steel and plastic. This makes the Trainer significantly lighter than the Runner at 300 lbs and easier to move.
There’s a built-in steel handle at the base to make tilting up the backend to engage the front wheels more convenient. Being our smallest reviewer, I’m able to move the Trainer. However, it is still pretty heavy and might be hard and potentially impossible for some to move, so keep this in mind.
The rear handle really helps when we have to move the TrueForm Trainer.
The TrueForm Trainer Treadmill has a maximum deck height of 16 inches and a step-up height of 14 inches in the middle of the deck. You don’t have to factor in the ability to incline on the TrueForm Trainer, so you only need a minimum ceiling height of 8’ for a 6’ runner to train comfortably. For more information, check out our blog on ceiling height.
Console & Features
Manual treadmills can typically be used just about anywhere because they don’t require an outlet. Some people even roll them outside—weather and climate permitting. This is due to their lack of motors and battery-powered consoles. The TrueForm Trainer has an LCD display that uses batteries. When the belt starts moving, the console turns on.
Everything is clear and easy to see on the console.
Even though we expect simple consoles on manual treadmills (their lack of electricity is their appeal), the Trainer’s console is more basic than most.
For starters, it only displays your pace, speed, distance, time, and heart rate (when connected to a compatible Polar heart rate tracker). Unfortunately, metrics like calories aren’t tracked. You can change the distance and speed from miles to kilometers and vice versa, though.
There is also a mode that lets you create your own intervals. However, in this setting, you can only set time and/or distance goals.
You won’t find any storage on this treadmill, not even for a phone or water bottle. Eliminating distractions, like watching your device, for instance, may be intentional on TrueForm’s part. There is less room for distractions and more room to focus on running and improving as an athlete. It’s not a bad idea if this is your goal. Although, a water bottle holder would be nice.
Overall, this console is underwhelming and could use some upgrades. The console on the AssaultRunner Elite has a lot more functionality, in comparison. The console isn’t a huge dealbreaker for the TrueForm Trainer, though. I promise you, this is a worthy contender for any runner. Keep reading to find out why.
Build Quality
Now, let’s dive into the construction. The TrueForm Trainer is the less expensive little brother to the TrueForm Runner, which was built for use in public gyms. The Trainer is made for home use, but in our testing, it is still very durable.
The Trainer is best suited for home use.
Among other components of the construction, one aspect that has us impressed is the weight capacity. The TrueForm Trainer is rated to handle up to 400 lbs. This means most people should be able to use this machine.
Frame
The frame is made up of welded seven-gauge steel with steel uprights and handles. A molded thermoplastic makes up the side rails and outer part of the frame. There are also 112 sealed steel ball bearings under the deck, as well as large pulleys that control the direction and motion of the belt. In order to walk backward, for instance, you have to turn around and face the rear of the treadmill.
The handles consist of one continuous piece that the console is attached to.
The handles are metal and extend back on either side of the deck while you’re running to provide balance assistance when you need it. They can also be used as leverage when getting into a full sprint. Overall, the TrueForm Trainer feels as durable as competitors like the AssaultRunners, but it feels a little bit different to use, which I’ll get into below.
MotorLess
A big aspect that makes manual treadmills, unlike electric ones, is the fact that they don’t have motors. The Trainer doesn’t have a motor. Instead, your feet control the speed. What makes this treadmill, and other curved manual treadmills, ideal for running, especially at high speeds, is the fact that the belt will go as fast as you do. The TrueForm Trainer has an unlimited max speed.
It also requires significantly less maintenance than motorized treadmills because of its lack of a motor.
We took noise measurements of the TrueForm Trainer with two different runners at 3 miles per hour, 6 miles per hour, and 9 miles per hour. They varied in their weight, height, and foot strike pattern. The results showed that the taller runner was louder when training on the Trainer from a range of 48 dB to 63 dB. The other runner’s range was 47 dB to 61 dB.
There is some variance from runner to runner, but the noise level of the Trainer is similar to other manual treadmills and even to motorized treadmills (without anyone walking or running on them).
Deck
The deck is unique because of its shallow curve. TrueForm claims that they have the shallowest curve in their decks compared to other manual treadmills. From the highest to lowest points on the deck, there is only a 2.5” difference. The shallower curve is definitely noticeable when the Trainer is lined up next to others, like the AssaultRunner Elite.
TrueForm says that less of a curve makes for a more “natural and neutral” running form. TrueForm has designed its treadmills (both the Trainer and Runner) to help improve form and encourage a midfoot strike. There was even a study showing how effective the TrueForm Runner is at correcting runners’ gaits.
The Trainer and Runner have the same angle of the curve and pretty negligible differences in the belts unless you customize the Runner with turf, so rest assured you can experience the benefits of correct running mechanics on the TrueForm Trainer, too.
As far as the cushioning, the belt is made out of rubber slats that help absorb the shock that comes with running. From our experience, motorized treadmills with less cushioning can result in sore joints. This happens to me when I run on certain brands with firmer decks. However, the rubber slat belt on the Trainer doesn’t make my joints ache like this.
If you’re an outdoor runner who needs a break from running on concrete from time to time, the Trainer will feel nice underfoot because of the shock absorption.
The belt itself is 17” wide and 64” long.
Regarding width, manual treadmills are known for having narrower decks to help keep you running in a straight line. This deck is plenty long for all stride lengths, whether you’re just walking or at an all-out sprint.
Should You Buy the TrueForm Trainer
Calling all runners and athletes who want a treadmill that can handle a lot of use and doesn’t require electricity. The TrueForm Trainer is the one to check out! TrueForm has created high-end manual treadmills that are durable and designed to help improve your running form. The TrueForm Trainer is the more affordable alternative to the practically indestructible Runner.
We consider the TrueForm Trainer to be one of the best manual treadmills on the market. We’ve awarded it as the best manual treadmill for athletes. Not only is the Trainer durable, but it also has a shallow curved belt that has been proven to help improve your running form.
This isn’t your typical plug-in treadmill that has a motorized belt to keep up with. The TrueForm Trainer is fully manual and designed for runners and athletes of all levels. On this capable machine, you can run as fast as you want and work on bettering your balance and running overall.
TrueForm Trainer Treadmill Q&A / FAQ
Is the TrueForm Trainer worth it?
The TrueForm Trainer is a high-quality manual treadmill with the shallowest curve on any slat belt manual running treadmill. It encourages a midfoot/forefoot running stride over heel striking. The belt is cushioned and moves smoothly underfoot.
Training on the TrueForm Trainer burns more calories than on a motorized treadmill because you have to move the belt yourself. While the TrueForm Trainer has unlimited speed potential, it is harder to run on, like all manual treadmills.
Given all of this, the TrueForm Trainer could be worth it for someone who wants all of a manual treadmill’s benefits. The Trainer is one of the best manual running treadmills and is priced competitively.
Can you walk on a TrueForm Trainer?
Yes, you can walk on the TrueForm Trainer. But, it is harder to walk on than a motorized treadmill. Maintaining your walking pace is difficult because the treadmill is best for jogging, running, and sprinting.
The TrueForm Trainer may be overkill for only walking, but it is a great option for athletes who want to supplement the rest of the training on the Trainer with low-intensity sessions.
What is the difference between the TrueForm Trainer and the TrueForm Runner?
The Trainer is a residential manual treadmill with more plastic components. The TrueForm Runner is a heavy-duty manual treadmill designed for high-use settings like commercial gyms. The Runner comes in multiple colors and belt textures. The Trainer is a more affordable version that is suitable for heavy use by one person or a household of users only.
What is a TrueForm Trainer?
The TrueForm Trainer is a manual running treadmill with a slat belt. It is the least curved manual running treadmill available. This design encourages forefoot and midfoot running instead of rearfoot running. It does not require electricity, has unlimited speed potential, and comes with an impressive 150,000-mile belt warranty.
Is your TrueForm Trainer Manual Treadmill review a paid review?
No, our TrueForm Trainer review is not a paid review. Many of the treadmills and other products we receive are sent from the brand for free, but we are not paid to conduct the review. Brands do not give guidance for our reviews. We have developed our own process over a decade of reviewing and testing.
How do we make money, then?
When you use the links in many of our reviews, we may receive a commission when you make a purchase through them. This does not increase the cost of the treadmill for you. We have this relationship with most fitness brands, so we can give a balanced review of the product because we won’t steer you toward one brand or another. Our goal is to match you to the right treadmill.
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