Make a Run for It: Are ProForm Treadmills Worth It?

Thinking about adding a treadmill to your home gym setup? ProForm treadmills are probably on your list of options — after all, they’re high tech and well-liked by most buyers.

A treadmill is a big investment any way you slice it — but luckily, ProForm treadmills are considered a pretty sweet value for the price. We put together this guide to help you make the best decision for your budget and running needs.

ProForm is known for its top-of-the-line treadmills with ultra-sturdy motors and cool features. Many of the machines have Bluetooth speakers and color touch screens you can use to access app-based workouts, including iFit.

iFit

iFit is the brand’s interactive personal training app that features live and on-demand fitness classes and workout sessions. A subscription for unlimited use costs $39/month.

The 16,000+ workouts are led by top trainers and take place in thousands of different destinations, so you can (virtually) run almost anywhere. If you’ve been doing the same loop around your neighborhood for the last year (or just really haven’t left your apartment), it’s a pretty enticing feature.

Plus, the ability to switch things up and progress through harder runs just might be the ticket to staying motivated for the long haul.

iFit also syncs with some of the treadmills to automatically adjust your speed, incline, and resistance to match your class instructor (but you can override this setting if you wanna do your own thing).

If you would rather not take tread classes, you can opt out of a membership and use your treadmill on your own.

Value

ProForm treadmills are known for their value. They strike the right balance between features and price, which makes the brand a super-attractive option for basically anyone.

Even better, ProForm has a bunch of different models at a wide range of price points, making it easier to find the treadmill that’s best for you.

While the more affordable models have fewer special features than the higher-end ones, they still offer a great workout on a quality piece of equipment.

ProForm Pro Series

These are basically the gold standard of what a treadmill should be in 2022. Both of ProForm’s Pro Series treadmills offer top-of-the-line features.

So what’s the diff between these two?

The Pro 9000 costs $300 more than the 2000, which buys you a bigger touch screen and a higher motor capacity. The two machines have the same weight capacity and speed/incline range, so a higher motor capacity is likely meant to keep it running with heavier use.

That said, the Pro 2000’s motor capacity still beats what you’d get from most other treadmills. So unless you’re an elite athlete (for real, not just in your mind), it’ll likely suit your needs just fine.

ProForm Carbon Series

Don’t need the mack daddiest of treadmills? ProForm’s Carbon treadmills don’t boast quite as many jaw-dropping specs, so they’re less expensive. But they still deliver on performance and offer enough extras to give you a fun workout experience.

The Carbon Series treadmills don’t have the same speed or incline capacity as the Pro Series, and their incline doesn’t go downhill. Their tread belts are a little shorter, so they might not feel as roomy for tall runners or those with very long strides.

Their motors are a little less powerful, too, but still well within the realm of solid for a home treadmill.

As with the Pro series, the only differences between these two are price, motor capacity, and touch-screen size.

ProForm City Series

The City L6 is ProForm’s entry-level treadmill. A fold-up model made for smaller spaces, it’s designed to do the basics without the bling and might not feel quite as sturdy or powerful as the brand’s pricier offerings.

The City L6 doesn’t have the major speed or motor power of the Carbon or Pro treadmills, so it’s not the best for sprints or speed work. It also doesn’t have an incline, so you can’t simulate going uphill. It’s just straight, flat surface, sugar pie.

But if you’re short on space, still like the idea of using a treadmill with iFit capacity, and aren’t planning on doing super-intense workouts, this base model could be a good choice.

Before you finalize your order, make sure to look over ProForm’s company policies. It’s important to understand your options when it comes to returns, repairs, and even financing.

ProForm’s policies include:

• Warranty. ProForm offers a warranty for 10 years on the frame, 2 years on parts, and 1 year on labor.
• Returns and refunds. You can request a return within 30 days of receiving the treadmill, and you’ll have to pay a $250 return shipping fee. Shipping and delivery charges are nonrefundable. Charges for any wear or damage to returned equipment may apply.
• Shipping. ProForm offers free shipping through the following carriers/services: UPS Freight, Old Dominion, NVC Logistics, MXG Group, NonStopDelivery, Demar Logistics, and Last Mile Home. The shipping service will call before delivery, and all non-UPS shipments require a signature upon delivery.
• Assembly. White-glove assembly (normally available for an additional fee) is on hold until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ProForm instead offers detailed assembly instructions and recommends having two people available to put together products.
• Financing. ProForm offers a no-money-down financing program with 0% APR for 12, 36, or 39 months, with equal payments for eligible buyers. Restrictions, exclusions, and exceptions may apply.

While ProForm’s products, shipping, and customer service have many positive reviews, some users have shared not-so-pleasant experiences, from used parts to equipment failing after a short time. These users have had difficulty reaching ProForm’s parent company, iFit, to get their issues resolved.

All of ProForm’s treadmills are known for being durable, comfortable, and feature-filled. TBH, the brand as a whole sorta sets the bar for what a home treadmill should be, so these machines are definitely worth considering.

The main thing is figuring out which model is the best investment for you. Consider the following as you make your decision:

Price

Your budget is a key factor in deciding which treadmill is for you. Luckily, ProForm offers options at a variety of price points, from the affordable City L6 (starting at $699) to its pricier Pro Series (up to $1,799).

Don’t forget: You’ll also want to budget for your iFit subscription, which is offered at a monthly fee (but it is ~optional~).

Size

When it comes to exercise equipment, size matters. Depending on both your needs and your living space, you’ll need a treadmill that will — quite literally — fit into your life.

Think about your space and the max size you can accommodate (including storage, if you plan to fold up your ProForm after each use!).

Max speed and incline

Do you crave a more intense treadmill run, with high speeds and steep inclines? Or are your workouts a little more leisurely? Your exercise plans and goals will determine the levels of speed and incline you need in a treadmill.

ProForm’s Pro Series is great for serious runners who want to run fast and hard, while the City L6 will best benefit those looking for a slower, less intense workout. And if you want variety in your workouts, the Carbon Series can fit your needs.

Weight capacity

While both the Pro and Carbon series can support up to 300 lbs., the City L6 can hold a max of 250 lbs.

Features

What features matter to you? Maybe a screen is nice, but you don’t mind using a tablet. Or perhaps you really want a built-in fan and the ability to connect your wireless headphones.

Figuring out your absolute must-haves will help you select the model that best meets your needs.

Horizon T101

• Price: $999
• Features: max speed of 10 mph, multi-app compatible (Peloton, STUDIO, Nike Run Club, Aaptiv), 300-lb. capacity, foldable, built-in Bluetooth speakers and USB charging ports, tablet holder

Much like the ProForm City L6, this base model is a solid, well-rounded product at a budget-friendly price. Unlike the City L6, however, this simple Horizon treadmill offers a few special bells and whistles, including Bluetooth speakers, a fan, USB charging ports, AND incline ability.

The Horizon T101 is great for treadmill newbies as well as more seasoned runners — as long as they don’t go too fast, since it has a max speed of 10 mph. And while Horizon doesn’t include iFit, it does offer a greater variety of on-demand fitness apps, including Peloton, Nike Run Club, STUDIO, and Aaptiv.

NordicTrack Commercial 2950

• Price: $2,499
• Features: 22-in. touch screen, max speed of 12 mph, 300-lb. capacity, built-in fan, both incline and decline options, iFit-compatible, large tread belt

With both incline and decline capabilities, a 22-in. screen, and speeds up to 12 mph, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 offers many of the same functions as the ProForm Pro 9000. It also features a built-in fan and access to the iFit subscription service.

Despite their many similarities, two key details put the Pro 9000 ahead of this NordicTrack treadmill.

First is the cost, with the NordicTrack coming in at a significantly higher price than the ProForm. Second, the NordicTrack isn’t foldable, so it may not be the best option unless you have the space to leave it out all the time.

What is the best ProForm treadmill?

Overall, ProForms are top-notch treadmills, and each series has its pros and cons. While some models may have more bells and whistles than others, it all comes down to which treadmill is best *for you*.

The Pro 9000 is the best for Really Serious Runners since it can run at top speeds and simulate running downhill.

An average exerciser who runs more to stay fit than, say, to try to win races? You’ll get a solid experience with the Carbon T7 or T10 — it just won’t go quite as fast or simulate running downhill.

If you’re looking for something that works for walking or light jogging, or maybe just as the occasional sub when you can’t run outside, the City L6 is a good choice. It still has iFit capacity, is easier on your wallet, and can be folded up and stowed away when you’re not using it.

Which is better: ProForm or NordicTrack?

Honestly, that’s something you need to decide for yourself. Both brands offer high quality treadmills (and other home workout equipment) with similar features that can help you get your fitness on.

Which is best for you depends on your needs and preferences. You’ll want to consider each brand’s available models, the features they offer, pricing or financing options, and any other details that are important to you.

To help you out, we’ve got all the deets you need on NordicTrack’s treadmills here.

Where can I buy ProForm treadmills?

Ready to get your own ProForm treadmill? You can order one directly from ProForm’s website.