Horizon Treadmill Reviews

Coupon Code Available! Use code Horizon5 at checkout on any Horizon treadmill to save.

Competing directly with brands like ProForm and NordicTrack, Horizon creates a comprehensive line of treadmills that vary in price and features.  The prices for Horizon treadmills range from $699-$1,899. They are designed for various types of users from those who want a machine for walking and light jogging all the way up to those who want a machine for serious running.

Team members recently visited Horizon Fitness to view the equipment first hand and to talk with the management about the company’s focus and goals. Visits like this are extremely valuable and allow us to gain insight beyond what you would learn by reading online or testing store models.

To give you some background on Horizon Fitness, they are owned by Johnson Fitness, which is the third largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world.  They also produce Vision Fitness, a premium specialty brand, and Matrix treadmills, which is the fastest growing commercial treadmill brand in the world.

During our first full day at the facility, we were given a tour of the entire operation from the customer service call center, to the distribution warehouse, to the in-house workout facility, and finally to the engineers hard at work on the newest innovations.

We spoke with members of the upper management and product management teams to learn about the thought and care that goes into each of the elements of Horizon Fitness products.

In addition, we were presented with extensive explanations of the features on each of their various treadmill and elliptical models. Our entire day was filled with detailed information and extremely friendly staff members.

What Makes Horizon Treadmills Different?

They manufacture their own product parts.  First, their company is ‘vertically integrated’, which means they manufacture all of the components that go into their treadmills. Using company-designed parts rather than third party components drastically cuts down on maintenance issues. This commitment to quality can be seen in their Johnson Drive System motor which uses larger magnets to run at a lower RPM resulting in a cooler and quieter system. They also have a completely maintenance free tread belt that has been tested up to 21,000 miles. Many other companies use components designed by third parties, which results in more maintenance issues.

They have excellent customer service. Next, Johnson Fitness places high value on customer service. Their knowledgeable representatives are on hand to help field incoming calls from customers with questions or technical issues. This is one area with which many of the competition brands struggle. During a tour of the operation, Todd Boerboom (National Sales Manager) was particular proud to show off their customer service department. He explained the extensive training their service staff goes through.  He also mentioned that many are longtime employees.  Like other fitness equipment companies, they have to take on temporary staff during the busy winter months. These temps also get extensive training. Todd pointed out that the fitness equipment industry has a poor reputation for service. That is why Johnson Fitness uses other industries with superior service as their benchmark.

They have a strong company culture of wellness.  Finally, the overall culture of the company emphasizes health and wellbeing. The staff is focused on providing the best values in cardio equipment. The Johnson headquarters had a large workout facility complete with locker rooms and showers and it is evident that the fit and trim employees take advantage. This is important to acknowledge because a company that cares about the well-being of their employees also cares about the well-being of their customers.

Their treadmills have a simple 30 minute set up.  Over the years, we’ve put together quite a number of brand-new treadmills.  And to be truthful, the process is usually long and frustrating.  Horizon offers two machines with a very quick 30 minute set up.  It saves you a ton of time and gives you more time using your treadmill so you can get in shape.

They have high testing standards. During our visit, we were walked through the entire design process from concept, to test models, and finally to mass production. Considerable thought and testing go into each product. All of the Johnson Fitness products are engineered to pass European Safety Standards which are stricter than those required in the United States.

What is FitU?

Launched in 2021, FitU is Horizon’s brand-new fitness feature. Essentially, FitU allows you to discover fitness apps and workout streaming classes that are compatible with your Horizon treadmill. With the crazy amount of fitness apps out there, Horizon has decided to let you take control of how you train, and who you train with. Horizon treadmills work with any live or on-demand fitness app. This means you can choose the app or the instructor you like, without your treadmill company dictating the options. With other popular fitness equipment brands like NordicTrack or ProForm, you’ll find a large and expensive touchscreen on the machine to use their own interactive fitness technology. With Horizon and FitU, you can bring your own device of choice, whether that be your phone or even your tablet. When you find a class or app that you’d like to try through FitU, you can stream your favorite fitness service right onto the screen of your treadmill.

What this means is that you won’t have to pay an additional subscription fee for a fitness program through Horizon. This is a really nice thing to see since most companies offer awesome training, at an additional price. With Horizon, you choose how and where you spend your money for interactive training. Rather, you can use any workout program or application that you are already using and get the most out of your treadmill and your workout routine. FitU is set up like an interactive library on Horizon’s website, allowing you to search and filter by whatever style of workout that you are looking for. You can filter between audio or video classes, treadmill only workouts, weight or resistance band incorporated, as well as dance, martial arts, outdoor classes, running, and more.

Some popular applications that are compatible to use with Horizon equipment include:

• Peloton
• Studio
• Zwift
• Apple Fitness
• Aaptiv
• Beachbody on Demand
• Barry’s Bootcamp
• Nike + Run Club
• Orange Theory at Home
• POPSUGAR Fitness

Horizon T101 Treadmill Review

For many years, a common question in the fitness industry has been “What is the best budget treadmill?” Over and over again, we have awarded the Horizon T101 treadmill with this title rank. This machine may be the best value buy treadmill on the planet… seriously. The Horizon Treadmill T101 is the #1 selling fitness treadmill with approximately ½ million units sold. What makes the T101 an attractive offer for a budget treadmill is the fact that it has a reputation for being very low maintenance.

The T101 is also well constructed. However, be aware that the Horizon treadmill T101 is primarily designed for walking, although it should withstand the abuse of moderate jogging.

There are two features that we particularly like about the T101…

High Quality Motor:  The 2.5 continuous duty HP motor is built by the manufacturer specifically for the Horizon treadmill T101. This is not an off-the-shelf motor bought by a third party. In fact, all of the product parts from Horizon Fitness models are designed specifically for their machines to provide seamless integration and less maintenance issues. This motor runs smoothly and very quietly with a peak performance at a lower RPM.

Straight Forward Design:  We also really liked the ease with which this straight-forward machine can be operated. The folks at Horizon Fitness advertise a 30-minute assembly. This is a big advantage over other models.  We’ve set-up many treadmills and it can often take hours of frustration.  With the T101, you can be set up and ready to go in a half-hour.  Then, you can spend more of your time actually using the machine. Once using the treadmill, speed and incline can be adjusted with a single touch using their quick select keys.

Other features on the Horizon T101 Treadmill:

20” x 55” Running Surface – Adequate for users of average height or less.

Up to 10% incline – Engaging the power incline is a great way to target different muscles and to increase the intensity of your workouts.

Horizon Deck Three-Zone Variable Response Cushioning System – Horizon designed their treadmills like a “running shoe”. What this means for the user is that you’ll be able to exercise longer, with less impact. Cushioning is softer in the impact zone and firmer in the push-off zone, so every stride is comfortable.

Bluetooth Connectivity – You can now wirelessly connect your favorite device to the T101’s integrated speaker system and listen to your favorite playlist while you work out.  This means you can watch Netflix and listen to the audio through your treadmill speakers.  Pretty cool!

Integrated Tablet Holder and USB Port – If entertainment while you sweat is a must, then the T101 now has you covered. Use the integrated tablet holder in combination with the rapid-charge USB port to keep your video going as long as you are.

Backlit LCD display – Monitor your progress on the easy-to-read three display window.

Speed Capacity Up to 10 MPH – Adjustable with typical arrow keys or quick select keys for easy use during your workout.

Contact HR Monitor – Allows you to monitor your heart rate during exercise to determine whether you need to slow down or pick up the pace.

Cooling Fan – Provides a moderate relief when you’re working up a good sweat.

Music Connection – With an audio in/out jack so you can plug in your phone or device and listen to music directly from the treadmill’s speakers, or through your headphones.

Folds for Easy Storage – Great feature for saving space when the treadmill is not in use. The Feather Light Folding makes it easy to raise and lower. When lowered, the machine descends slowly and in a controlled manner to avoid accidental injury.

2.5 HP Continuous Duty Motor – Sufficient for walking and light jogging.  This may seem like a very small motor when you compare it to the monster horsepower available from other brands.  Remember, Horizon builds all of its own components, so this Johnson Drive motor is able to run efficiently at a lower RPM, require less fans (quieter overall) and require less maintenance.  Short story – don’t dismiss this machine just because of the lower horsepower.

30 Minute Quick Assembly –  In our experience of setting up numerous treadmill models, it can take up to two hours of pure frustration to set up your new treadmill. The T101 offers a quick and easy 30 minute assembly. 

Warranty – Lifetime on frame and motor; One year on parts and labor.

Horizon T202 Treadmill Review

As the older sibling of the #1 best-selling Horizon T101, the T202 from Horizon offers some absolutely fantastic upgrades, including a larger incline and more powerful motor. With this treadmill, you are getting an exceptional deal on a tried-and-true design.

Designed for walking and jogging, the T202 is a great option for anyone looking for a mid-range treadmill featuring quality construction and an easy-to-use design.

The Horizon Treadmill T202 Features

2.75 CHP Motor – This is a nice upgrade compared to the 2.5 CHP motor on the T101. As with all Horizon models, this is not an off-the shelf motor purchased by a third party. All Horizon motors are built specifically for their machines which make for less maintenance and perfect integration. Horizon motors are also designed for peak performance at lower RPMs which keeps the machine running smoothly and quietly at all times.

This motor makes the T202 perfect for walkers and joggers, but may not be the best option for more avid runners. Those looking to put in more miles or follow a more strenuous running regimen may want to look at the Horizon Elite series, which provides more powerful motors to withstand serious mileage.

Clean, Simple Design – Boasting a quick and easy 30-minute set-up, what the T202 lacks in bells and whistles it makes up for in ease of use. The hydraulic folding system makes prep for your workout and storage afterward a breeze. Plus, you can easily tuck the T202 away when it’s not in use so as not to take up precious floor space in your home.

The straight-forward One-touch speed and incline buttons, along with Quick Program keys get you moving exactly how you want without any hassle.  I can’t stress this enough.  One-touch buttons are definitely WORTH IT! You will regret not having them if you buy a machine where you need to click the “plus” button over and over again to reach your desired pace.  One-touch buttons add immensely to the running experience.

20” x 60” Running Surface – The T202 running surface is large enough to accommodate most users. At 60” in length this will also be comfortable for taller users

Speed from 0.5 – 12 MPH – This is another area where we see an upgrade from the T101’s 10 MPH top speed. This extra capability allows you to push yourself as you meet your fitness goals.

0-12% Incline – The T202 also offers an upgrade on the incline, compared to the 0-10% incline on the T101. Using the additional incline will help you target and tone additional muscle groups and challenge yourself when you are wanting a more intense workout.

Bluetooth Connectivity – Designed with Bluetooth capability you can stream your favorite media from your device on the T202’s integrated speakers.  This is a relatively new feature on Horizon machines and definitely one that we like a lot.  You can watch your favorite Netflix shows and have the sound come through your treadmill’s speakers.

Contact Grip Heart Rate Monitor – Keep track of your heart rate using the grip monitors on the T202. This does require keeping your hands on the grips in front of you, which can be a little more difficult if you are jogging.

3-Zone Variable Cushioning Response – The T202 offers Horizon’s 3-zone running surface to help make for more comfortable use. The front portion of the surface is more cushioned to provide increased shock absorption and relieve stress on your joints. The rear of the surface is a bit harder where your feet push off. Honestly, this is one of the more comfortable running decks that you’ll find from the brands out there.

Warranty – Lifetime on frame and motor; One year on parts and labor.

Horizon T303 Treadmill Review

The T303 is the newest addition to Horizon’s budget line of treadmills, but don’t be fooled. “Budget” doesn’t mean that you sacrifice performance or quality when it comes to Horizon, it just leaves your wallet happier. The T303 offers performance features that make it anything but entry-level. In fact, much of what the T303 offers rivals it’s much more expensive competitors.

By putting these kinds of features on an “entry-level” machine, Horizon has built a machine that can grow with you each step of the way on your fitness journey. The price makes it more accessible to those who don’t need to spend money on a commercial grade machine. However, as your needs grow, the T303 will be able to keep up with you so there’s no need to worry about having to upgrade.

Horizon Treadmill T303 Features

3.0 CHP Motor – This is a substantial motor for an entry-level treadmill. Whether you want to walk, jog or run, you’ll be able to do it on the T303. To find a motor of this size on a treadmill with a price tag of $1,099 is impressive and quite out of the ordinary. This is the benefit of a company making its own parts. They can afford to provide performance and power at a lower cost.

This is also great for those of you that are starting out on your fitness journey, but want a machine that will be able to grow with you. This is a great price point for a beginner, but it has the performance features to keep up with you as you make leaps and bounds of progress.

0-15% Incline – This is another area where we see a substantial performance feature for a machine in this category. A 15% incline is big even for a far more expensive machine. If you are a fan of hill days, or HIIT workouts, this treadmill will give you a run for your money.

Plus, just like the motor, this is an area where your machine will be able to grow with you as you get faster and stronger.

0.5-12 MPH – A top speed of 12 MPH rivals what you will find on any other machine. Challenging speed drills and HIIT workouts will be easily attainable and your machine won’t ever slow you down.

3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning – Horizon’s 3-zone cushioning helps you maintain your proper stride and protects your joints at the same time. The front portion of the deck has more cushioning to decrease wear and tear on your joint when your foot strikes. The rear of the deck is firmer to allow for your foot to push off with more force and stability.

20” x 60” Tread Belt – Fear not tall runners and those with a long stride. The 60” long tread belt on the T303 means that you will always have enough space to stretch your legs and run your best every time.

Backlit LCD Window & 3 LED Windows – This is where we see a difference between Horizon and many other treadmill companies. Horizon doesn’t provide the big, bright HD Touchscreens that we are seeing everywhere. However, the combo of LCD & LED windows means that you can track your workout stats as you go and not miss a beat.

Comfort Features – The T303 isn’t just about performance, it’s full of comfort features in addition to the tablet holder. Bluetooth speakers, cooling fan and custom interval keys ensure your workout is exactly what you need.

Warranty – Lifetime on frame and motor; Three years on parts, one year on labor.

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review

If you are looking for a treadmill that will simply allow you to run to your heart’s content, the Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill may be just what you’ve been searching for. The 7.0 AT offers some great performance upgrades from the entry-level treadmills, without the bells and whistles attached to the higher price models. The 7.0 AT certainly doesn’t disappoint when compared to the other models in the Horizon line-up.

Horizon 7.0 AT Awards

• 2021 Editor’s Choice in Runner’s World Magazine
• 2022 Fitness Reward from Good Housekeeping.  

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Features

3.0 CHP Motor – The powerful 3.0 CHP motor on the 7.0 AT means that this treadmill was made to run.

As with all Horizon models, you can count on a motor that is built for quality and longevity. This is not an off-the shelf motor purchased by a third party. All Horizon motors are built specifically for their machines which make for less maintenance and perfect integration. Horizon motors are also designed for peak performance at lower RPMs which keeps the machine running smoothly and quietly at all times.

Steel Construction Frame – This frame is built to be durable and stand up to a more strenuous workout regimen. Compared to the plastic construction on many price-friendly models, the Horizon 7.0 AT is going to provide you with a solid, steady run every time.

60” x 20” Running Surface – This size running surface is going to be comfortable for most users. The 60” length provides space for taller users or those with a longer stride.

12mph Speed & 15% Incline– Whether you like to do speed intervals, HIIT workouts or long distance, the 7.0 AT has you covered. The combination of speed and incline is going to allow users of any ability level to get a great workout.

253 lb. Unit Weight – The heavier weight of this machine guarantees you a solid running surface, even when you are taking advantage of high speeds and inclines. This also eliminates bouncing or moving when you run, to keep your workout quieter. If you live in a shared living space and don’t want to disturb your neighbors this is a plus.

In addition, the heavier machine makes it capable of handling users up to 350 lbs. This is a higher recommended user weight than we usually see in models under $1000. This helps make fitness more accessible for many users.

7” LCD Screen w/ 16 digit alphanumeric LED display – This is one area where you aren’t going to see the fancy technology upgrades that you find in more expensive models. That being said, the 7.0 AT does include Advanced Bluetooth connectivity so that you can stream media from multiple devices to play music, track your heart rate and track fitness stats.

The 7.0 AT also works with the free Horizon fitness app to give you real-time workout tracking and allows you to control your workout from your device.

Folding Capability – The 7.0 AT is a folding treadmill, which is great for those that live in smaller spaces or want to tuck their treadmill away from tiny hands when it’s not in use.

Variable Response Cushioning – This is a system that we find on Horizon models that is really great for curbing the wear and tear on your joints that comes with running. The 3-zone cushioning is specifically designed to work with your natural stride. Horizon DeckYou receive more cushion at the front of the belt where you need to absorb the shock of landing. Meanwhile, the rear of the surface is a little harder to allow you to push off for better forward motion.

1.6mm 2-Ply Belt – This is a belt that is going to require some regular maintenance. It certainly isn’t the thinnest belt on the market and can withstand regular use, but it will need to be lubricated.

Warranty – Lifetime on frame and motor; Three years on parts, one year on labor.

Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Review

One of the newer arrivals to the Horizon line-up is the 7.4 AT. As usual, we go into viewing this model with high hopes. Horizon consistently delivers high-end machines that we trust to deliver fantastic results. And there’s good reason for this. Inside every Horizon machine you will find the Johnson Drive System Motor. It uses larger magnets to run at a lower RPM, which results in a cooler and quieter system. The 7.4 features a nice upgraded 3.5 CHP motor.

Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Features

3.5 CHP Motor w/ Rapid Sync Technology – Since we talked about the motor already, let’s start there. A 3.5 CHP motor on a mid-level machine is nothing to shake a stick at. This motor is going to keep up with even the most avid of runners. Whether you enjoy HIIT workouts, speed training, or want to run your first (or tenth) marathon. This motor has you covered.

The Rapid Sync feature is a new part of this machine that is quite impressive. This feature makes the motor respond faster when you change speed or incline. When your body is ready to kick it into high gear, the machine is right there with you.

The Rapid Sync Technology means it responds 33% faster than other treadmill motors. This keeps you from having to wait while your machine catches up with your drive.

22” x 60” Tread Belt – Not only does this machine provide power, it provides space. The tread belt on the Horizon 7.4AT Treadmill is long enough to accommodate tall users, as well as those with a longer stride. You will also find the 22” width gives adequate space to keep you from feeling cramped.

3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning – Yes, the tread belt on the Horizon 7.4AT Treadmill is deckroomy, but its deck is also cushioned specifically to keep you feeling good. The 3-zone cushioning system provides more cushion in the front to protect your joints when your foot strikes the deck. It’s then firmer in the back so you are able to push off more effectively and maintain your stride.

0.5 – 12 MPH – When it comes to speed, 12 mph is going to do the trick. Not only is the motor built to tackle your toughest workout, the speed is too. HIIT and speed training will be covered not matter what your goals are.

0-15% Incline – A 15% incline on a mid-level treadmill is impressive, there’s no way around that. If you want to push yourself with an intense hill workout, you will feel it with this kind of incline.

Folding Capability – If you live in a small space or share your home with friends or family, you may not want your treadmill to be a topic of conversation. The FeatherLight Folding feature on the 7.4 AT makes it easy to tuck your treadmill away.

Display – This is the one department where you will see a difference between Horizon and other treadmill brands. They don’t include the large HD Touchscreen displays that we are seeing on a lot of other machines like NordicTrack or ProForm.

The 7.4 AT has a 16 digit alphanumeric LED display, along with an 8.25” LCD Screen. You can track all of your workout stats, but if you want to use an interactive training app you will need to provide your own tablet.

325lb. User Capacity – With the ability to accommodate users up to 325lb, most everyone has the chance to start their fitness journey with the 7.4AT.

Warranty – Lifetime Frame & Motor, 5-year Parts, 2-year Labor. This is part of why a company producing their own parts works for you. We live in a time of the diminishing warranty, because things are made quickly but not necessarily to last, that’s not the case with Horizon. That’s why they back their products with a warranty that’s at the top of the market.

Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill Review

The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill is not for the faint of heart, but for the price, you’re getting a tremendous machine. Priced at $1999, you are going to be paying for everything you get. So, the question really is, “do you need it?”

The 4.0 CHP motor with Rapid Sync Technology, combined with the 15% incline and 12 mph top speed make this a machine that can really handle anything. If you are a runner that needs a machine that can keep up with you, the 7.8 AT will not disappoint.

7.8 AT Treadmill Features

4.0 CHP with Rapid Sync Technology – This is the most powerful motor you will find from Horizon and it’s no joke. 4.0 CHP is going to help you reach even the loftiest of goals. If you are planning on logging some serious miles and doing intense training, this machine won’t let you down or slow you down.

The Rapid Sync feature is a new part of this machine that makes it better equipped to keep up with you and your fitness aspirations. It means the motor respond faster when you change speed or incline. When you’re ready to push yourself to the next level, the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill is right there with you. The Rapid Sync Technology responds 33% faster than other treadmill motors. This keeps you from having to wait while your machine catches up with your needs.

3-Zone Variable Cushioning – You can rest easy that your stride is in good hands with the variable cushioning on the 7.8 AT’s deck. Horizon places more cushion on the front of the deck to soften your foot striking the surface. This relieves stress on your joints. On the back, you’ll find the opposite. A firmer surface on the rear of the deck creates a better area to push off and maintain your stride.

22” x 60” Running Area – You’ll find all the space you need on the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill. The 60” length provides ample space for even the tallest of users and the longest of strides.

0-15% Incline – This incline guarantees you can tackle even the most intense of hill workouts. A 15% incline is larger than you’ll find on most treadmills, so the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill has a bit of a leg up in this department.

0.5 – 12 MPH – This speed range ensures you can do speed training and HIIT workouts to your heart’s content. You can push yourself to reach your goals and thanks to the Rapid Sync Technology, your changes in speed will happen 33% faster. There’s nothing holding you back.

FeatherLight Folding Capability – If you live in a small apartment, the ability to fold your treadmill and put it away if a major bonus. Not everyone wants their exercise routine to be the focus of their living room.

350 lb. User Weight Capacity – We have to admit this is pretty substantial. A weight capacity of 350 lb. is more than we see with most models and it’s nice to see an option that works for a larger range of people. Nobody should have to miss out on a stellar workout regimen because of their starting weight.

Display – We have talked about this before with Horizon machines and their displays. Horizon doesn’t provide the huge, flashy HD Touchscreens that we are seeing on a lot of other brands like NordicTrack or ProForm. The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill features a 9.3” high contrast TFT screen and a 16 digit alphanumeric LED display. These allow you to track your workout stats as you go, but you aren’t going to be taking a live-class on the machine’s display.

If you want to use your own tablet to follow along with another interactive training program, you have a multi-position tablet holder to help you get things right where you want them.

Warranty – We have seen a trend towards somewhat less inclusive warranties from some brands in the recent past. This is not the case with Horizon. The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill comes with a lifetime frame and motor warranty, 5 years on the parts and 2 years labor.

This is the benefit of purchasing from a company that manufactures all of their own parts. They can really put their money where their mouth is when it comes to the warranty.

Comfort – Yes the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill really brings it with the performance features, but that doesn’t mean you are going to be sacrificing comfort. The built-in accessory tray, Bluetooth speakers, USB charging capability and fan will ensure you get a great experience every time you step on.

Which Horizon Treadmill is Best?

If you aren’t sure which Horizon treadmill is the best fit for you, check out this quick reference comparison chart below.

Horizon Treadmill Comparison Chart

Are Horizon Treadmills Worth the Investment?

To sum it up – yes. Over the last several years, Horizon treadmills have improved in both quality and available interactive technology. They are more durable, and the stability and shock absorption have improved substantially. Add to that interactive feature like popular fitness app integrations through FitU, and you have some very attractive treadmills at a value price.

Horizon treadmills are built by Johnson Fitness, which also builds the high-end Vision Fitness treadmills and the commercial grade Matrix treadmills. Johnson Fitness is one of the largest fitness equipment companies in the world. Consequently, they can offer more value due to economy of scale.  If you are considering getting back into shape or want to lose some extra weight, these machines will do the job.

Overall, we are thoroughly impressed with the Johnson Fitness operation and different Horizon Fitness models.

This article was written by Brook Norris and published on Wednesday, 2 February 2022.