ProForm 680 Trainer Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

The real story about the ProForm 680 Trainer Treadmill is the price. The price is hard to beat, however this is not a heavy-duty commercial grade treadmill. It qualifies as a budget treadmill, and when buying a budget treadmill you have to use caution. Some bargain basement treadmills are just pure junk, and are not capable of dealing with the abuse that a treadmill must sustain.

ProForm builds some of the best budget treadmills on the planet.

So let's talk about the ProForm 680 Trainer Treadmill. First, you must understand this is a budget treadmill, which means it has certain limitations. For example, I would only recommend this treadmill for walking. Furthermore, I would set the user weight limit at around 220 lbs., not the listed 300 lbs.

Note: As of 11/18/09 the ProForm 680 Treadmill was selling for $699 with shipping. A good value. Go ProFormTreadmil.com for the latest deal.

If you want a jogging treadmill, I recommend you spend at least $1,000. For a running machine start at around $1,500. And, if you weigh 300 lbs. you want a treadmill that has a powerful motor and a quality deck designed for serious impact.

Features on the ProForm 680 Trainer.

2.8 HP Motor - They only give the peak performance rating of this motor, in comparison to the continuous duty rating. I would suspect that it rates at around 1.75 continious duty HP.

Sound System - You get built-in speakers and plug-ins for your iPod. Having speakers located in the console has the benefit of directing the sound right at you. The speakers are not the greatest, but the sound is adequate.

20" x 55" Treadbelt - The length is sufficient for walkers who are average to above average height.

10 Workouts Program - The various programs gives you a good selection of motivating challenges. I recommend you use a different program every time your workout. It prevents you from getting into a rut.

TreadSoft MaxT Cushioning - The cushioning is OK on the ProForm 680 Trainer. Remember this is a budget treadmill, so you are not going to get the advance shock absorption systems found on more expensive models. However, it is a vast improvement from exercising on asphalt or concrete.

Our Review - ProForm 680 Trainer

In the realm of budget treadmills, ProForm builds some of the best models in their price range. As part of the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world, they have the resources to build more for less.

However, you have to realize this is a budget treadmill, built with budget parts. The vast majority of the ProForm 680 Trainer treadmills will last for the duration, but some will not. Durability comes with a price, and in most cases the more you spend, the more durable a machine you will get.

It should be noted that this treadmill is being sold at Sports Authority under a different name, and it has been a hot seller with a good track record.

I recommend the ProForm 680 for people who have a limited budget and want to get back into shape. If you end up with good intentions, but no follow through, you didn't risk that much money.

Also, I would suggest you upgrade the warranty for another year. It comes with a 1-year parts and labor warranty, and extending the coverage can protect your investment.

In conclusion, if your budget is limited this treadmill is a definite consideration and one of the better buys.

Go ProFormTreadmil.com to learn more.