The ProForm Power 995 treadmill is a sturdy, big and good value treadmill. It includes the ability for users to have a different workout delivered to the treadmill each day using it’s iFit Live functionality. It is certainly a very capable machine with a 3 horsepower motor, and incline up to 15% and a top speed of 12 mph. It comes with 20 pre-set workout programs that provide a varied workout schedule. The running deck is 20 by 60 inches which will accommodate most users running at full stretch and can handle a maximum weight of 325 lbs.
Proform believe their iFit Live program makes this treadmill the top one in it’s market. But does this machine really live up to this claim or is it just hype?
Specifications
- Motor Size : 3 Horsepower
- Maximum Weight Capacity: 325 lbs
- Top Speed: 12 mph
- Incline: 15%
- Number of Programs: 20
- Foldable: Yes
- Running Deck Size 20 by 60 inches
- Warranty Frame – Lifetime, Motor – Lifetime, Parts – 3-Years Labor 1-Year
The Pros
Running Deck Size: This has one of the largest belts at 20 by 60 inches, in its market. The belt comes with Proform’s ProShox Elite 2 system of cushioning the impact and jarring of legs and ankles. The manufacturers claims it can support weights up to 325 lbs. A treadmill that can support this weight must be strong and sturdy to prevent the machine starting to be jump and jar the user. According to reviews it does manage to accommodate this weight successfully.
They report that when it is being used at high speeds and at an incline the workout is comfortable and smooth. The 60 inch length of the belt means that even if you have a long stride you don’t have to stick to the lower speeds. It is long enough for most users.
iFit Live Technology: This is both one of its best features and might also be considered one of its worse. On the plus side you can get a new workout program delivered to your treadmill each day. It is voiced by Jillan Michaels! This technology gives you plenty of variety in your daily training program so will help cut down on the level boredom, which can certainly be a factor with those machines that only have just a few in-built workout programs
You get more than just a brand new training program each day, you can also use Google Maps to personalize your training even more. You can plan out your own running route from any part of the world and iFit will get the treadmill to copy the inclines and outline of the route chosen It is possible to compete against other iFit users and watch how you are getting along using Google Maps – map, street or satellite view. This is a wonderful innovation that you will probably see incorporated more and more in to home treadmills. It is just another way to add more interest to your workout program.
Design: It is well designed. Although it is a large treadmill it isn’t unwieldy and awkward as you might expect. It is regarded as being among the most efficiently designed treadmills around. It folds up easily for convenient storage. The LCD display clear and easy to read. And unlike many treadmills it has a working fan. You can also plug in your iPod to listen to your music through its speakers. The controls are pretty intuitive from users comments which make it a simple treadmill to use.
The Cons
iFit Live Technology: As noted earlier this technology is one of its biggest pluses and also possibly it biggest letdown for many users. To be able to use this technology you need buy an iFit Live wireless adapter. It costs $100. On top of that there is an annual subscription to pay to keep using it. If you are going to use all of its capabilities it probably works out as reasonably priced service. Included in the price you get a treadmill that is more interactive and provide benefits that you don’t get with an ordinary treadmill.
The real problem is it is not made transparent that the treadmill is iFit compatible only and is not included in the price as standard. The sales copy should make this clear to avoid disappointed. A number of people have bought this machine believing it was included. They only found out they would have to pay for it after they had assembled it.
Steep Inclines: Even with the 3 Horsepower motor it sometimes increases in speed when on steeper inclines. You might end up jogging up the incline even though you set the treadmill for walking. Tightening the belt helps to alleviate the problem but it is still evident. At a price of around $1000 this shouldn’t happen.
Should You Buy The ProForm Power 995 Treadmill?
That depends! To get the most out of this treadmill you should really be prepared to buy the iFit technology. As this turns it from a run of the mill treadmill to one that is better than most other treadmills. If you aren’t going use the iFit Live functionally you can find other treadmills that just as good for less money. But, if you are going to utilize the iFit Live functionality you will have a treadmill that gives you plenty of new ways to push yourself through different training programs that are right for you. Because of this you’ll find the ProForm Power 995 is well worth investing in.
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