Smooth 9.45TV Treadmill Rating
2007 was the year of the TV treadmill. The prices ranged from $1,110 - $3,500. Why would you want a television on a treadmill? Because, for the most part, running in place is very boring. No matter how fast you run, you are always in the same place with the same view. Plus I find it tedious to have the seconds ticking off in front of you. It feels like you are in some type of time warp, where time slows down.
That is why people quite often have a distraction when they run on a treadmill, like reading, listening to music or watching TVs.
Icon Fitness has dominated the TV treadmill market with their ProForm, NordicTrack and Epic brands. However, the flat screen TVs are usually 7"-8". You strain to watch them. In fact, Landice is selling an 8" TV option with their treadmills for a whopping $850. Ouch!
Smooth came out with their Smooth Fitness 9.45TV treadmill. Without the TV, you would find this model to be a solid running machine with a 3.0 Hp motor, 60" long treadbelt, and advanced shock absorption. They added a new twist to the TV. It is 15", giving you a much bigger screen. In addition, it is external to the console. With the Icon products, if the TV goes out you have to replace the entire console, which can be very expensive.
If you are looking for a running treadmill and want to be entertained, the Smooth 9.45TV is worth considering.
Update: As of 3/23/09 the Smooth 9.45TV treadmill has proven to be a solid performer with an excellent service record.
