ProForm Power 690 Treadmill Review

 

The ProForm Power 690 treadmill is one of several new releases for 2010, even though it is still 2009.  Car companies do it, why not treadmill companies.  This model actually has many of the same features of previous models, excluding the iFit Live — a breakthrough concept in interactive exercising that unfortunately will not be releases until December 2009.

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Note: As of 11/18/09 the ProForm Power 690 treadmill was selling for $1,299 with shipping. Worth considerably less. Go to ProFormTreadmills.com for the latest price.

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When released, iFit Live has the potential to be the most innovative technology ever equipped in a treadmill.  For those unfamiliar with iFit, the  current version is a series of workout cards that you insert into your treadmill.  It controls the speed and incline, while providing motivational audio coaching.  Each card covers eight weeks of progressive training, and focuses on specific fitness goals like weight loss, performance and sculpting.  The workouts are designed by certified professional trainers. 

iFit Live takes the iFit technology to a whole new level.  First, the cards are replaced by Wi-Fi that communicates between your treadmill and your computer.  (Obviously, if you do not have Wi-Fi it won't work.)   All your workout data like distance run, time, calories burned, etc., is downloaded and tracked on your personal profile page on iFit.com.  You also have these killer apps...

• With Google Maps™ you can map your own workout route.
• Race  against your Facebook friends.
• Workout with Jillian Michaels.  There currently are a series of iFit workout cards designed by her.
• Download workouts suited to your fitness goals.
• Other features include a nutrition and activity tracker, motivating text messages and emails, and workout videos available for download.

Since it is not released yet, I have not tried it out.  My information comes second hand from the company.  They are very pumped about this new release.  I am curious how it will actually perform with the treadmill.  Note, there will be an additional cost for iFit Live.

Update on iFit Live: I still don't have the details, but a link is availbable. I was kind of shocked at the $399 price for the module. I have a feeling that will drop. Not sure if there is an additional monthly fee. I've got a call into the company to learn more. At this stage I cannot endorse this feature, but still think the treadmill is a good deal when on sale.

Other Features...

20" x 55" Treadbelt - The belt is sufficient for most users.  Joggers that are tall may want to consider a treadmill with a 60" treadbelt.  It should be noted that although they list the belt at 55" long, when you factor the area covered by the front shroud, you actually have less walking/jogging length.  This is typical for most treadmills.

2.75 Continuous Duty HP Motor - They claim the motor is commercial grade, which is misleading.  This motor may be used for commercial industrial applications, but you would not find a motor this size in a commercial treadmill.  However, at 2.75 HP this motor is adequate for walking and jogging without straining. 

Sound System with MP3/iPod Input - ProForm has a decent sound system in comparison to other brands.  I personally work out to music.  It helps to burn calories and get into the zone.

4 Performance & 4 Distance Workout Programs - Not a huge selection, but enough to give you a variety of challenges.

Additional features on the ProForm Power 690 include a built-in fan, shock absorption and a LCD display that are typical for a treadmill at this price.  The warranty covers 25-years on the motor and 1-year parts and labor.  You may want to consider extending the coverage to protect your investment.

Our Review - ProForm Power 690

As mentioned, the majority of the components and features on this treadmill have been used in previous models.  The story here is the iFit Live, and that is an untold story since it is currently not available.  It will be interesting to see it in action, because the description is impressive. 

Considering the other features, when priced at $900 or less the Power 690 is a good value.  ProForm in general, offers some of the best built budget treadmills.  That is why they dominate that market.

Go to ProFormTreadmills.com to learn more!