The Proform 505 CST treadmill is an electronic treadmill is both stable and solidly built. It combines this with loads of technical gadgets and functions that will please any running fan. It includes 15 different work outs, it responds quickly to changes and has top of the range cushioning. The manufacturer says that this treadmill is perfect for anyone who wants to take their running seriously from the amateur to the professional. It’s motor is 2.25 horsepower with 25 year manufacturer’s warranty. Proform certainly seem very confident that this treadmill can accommodate the demands of full on training over an extended period. But can it really deliver on these claims?
Specifications
- Maximum Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Max Speed: 10 mph
- Incline: From 0 to 10 degrees
- Fold Up? Yes
- Running Deck Size 20 by 55 inches
- Built-In Programs: 15
- Warranty: Frame – Lifetime Motor – 25-Year Parts & Labor 1-year
The Pros
Size: The first thing you notice is the size of this treadmill. It also weighs 200 lbs , so you probably don’t want to move it too often. It is a good size for runners. The tread-belt or running deck size is 20 by 55 inches and this will be suitable for most of the longer stride runners. It provides a nice length and it provides a comfortable run.
Because it is a well built machine it can cope with 300 lbs with ease. This may not seem that fantastic. But most other treadmills in this price range are often only designed to accommodate weights up to a maximum of 250 lbs. To back up this claim the manufacturer’s Proform have given the motor a warranty of 25 years. This isn’t something you often see with treadmills at this price.
Comfort Level: It utilizes a ProShox Lite 3 belt cushioning system. This provides excellent protection to ankles, legs and feet from the impact and repetitive strain injuries. When you’re really pushing yourself on a long run this cushioning is really appreciated. This system not only protects your joints and bones from wear and tear it provides a resilient and long lasting running tread-belt. You might even start to take the cushioning for granted but when you step back on to an ordinary treadmill you’ll definitely notice it and be thankful for the cushioning when you step back onthe Proform 505.
Capabilities: This durable machine has a number of interesting features. The 2.25 HP motor is more than capable and provides a smooth and comfortable run even at the maximum of 10 mph and an incline of 10 % It includes 15 work out programs to provide tough work outs for even the most demanding runners.
These workouts that in-built can’t be modified while running but they are easy to choose and make your selection. The Proform 505 CST Treadmill controls are very responsive and simple to use. The changing the speed is quick and smooth and so are changes to the incline adjustments. You can also insert your iPod into the machine and listen to it through speakers. The quality is not top of the range but is better than having to wear a headset
The Cons
iFit: It is IFit Live compatible but there is a cost in getting it set up and working fully. iFit Live is a training program that is fully interactive and you can download training programs and workouts using Google maps technology. It’s a fantastic service but you do need spend money to subscribe both initially and then on an on-going basis going forward. It is a very valuable feature should you want to use it. But, some customers think the 505 CST treadmill includes the iFit Live in the price not that it is compatible only.
Assembly: Unfortunately it is not among the easiest to assemble. It needs at least 2 people and can take up to several hours to complete. I guess you could see this as being a good thing because it has 25 year warranty it should require some expertise to put it together correctly. If you’re not that handy with putting together technical things you might want to consider hiring someone who is skilled in this area to assemble it for you. The small cost of getting this done will be quickly repaid through having a treadmill machine which works as it should.
Should You Buy The Proform 505 CST Treadmill?
This treadmill is capable of catering for many different shapes and sizes. It has a wide range of functionality that makes it able to be suitable for both newbies and experienced runners and users. At the current price of around $600 it is not the most expensive treadmill on the market but is also not the cheapest. If you are looking for a treadmill that you are able to use for many years the Proform 505 CST treadmill might well be a worthwhile buy.
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