Obsession Fitness | Exercise Equipment, Home Gyms » Treadmills & Steppers

Paradigm Fitness Walking Electric Treadmill | Compact, Folding Home Exercise Machine

Editor — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 21:28:29 +0000

Here’s a no-frills, compact walking treadmill with an unusually sturdy build for the price range, accommodating users up to 350 pounds. While this model is intended for fitness walking only, it is not self-powered like other walking treadmills — the 1.5 HP motor has a speed range of 0.4 to 4.0 mph.

The space-saving design is ideal for small rooms, but with this comes a relatively short walking surface (16″ x 36″ belt), that’s not recommended for users of above average height. A 6’ tall individual will need to stay aware of over-stepping the tread area — not something you want to be thinking about during a workout.

Otherwise the Paradigm Fitness Walking Treadmill provides a safe, stable and comfortable workout, as advertised. Extra long safety handles add to walking security and balance at any speed. The ground-level walking surface makes it easy to get on and off the treadmill.

The control panel is simple to use and monitors time, distance, calories & walking speed. A speed control button fixed to the handle bar makes it easy to adjust the motor speed.

The walking area and belt come fully assembled. The arms, legs and display unit are easily attached. The treadmill folds for storage and includes transportation wheels.

Paradigm Fitness Walking Electric Treadmill Product Details

1.5 HP motor with 4MPH maximum speed
Heavy-duty frame is designed for extra weight support
Ground-level walking surface and wide side rails
LCD displays time, distance, calories burned and speed for easy reference
Folds for space-saving storage and moves easily on built-in wheels
350-pound maximum user weight; 1-year warranty for frame and 5 years for motor

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Folding Mini-Stair Climber | Brookstone Compact Fold-A-Way Cardio Stepper

Editor — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 00:54:32 +0000

This simple stair stepper from Brookstone offers an adequate cardio and lower body workout and folds away for easy storage when not in use.

The telescopic shaft is a distinguishing feature that can be adjusted to your exact height and accommodate multiple users.

The base is relatively small when compared to more robust and expensive steppers and can lead to some instability when in use. Another con is the lack of side handle bars.

The multi-function LCD console monitors heart rate, pace, training time, distance and calories burned. The computer can also track total steps or all workouts combined for a full week. The monitor automatically shuts off after five minutes of inactivity to preserve the battery life.

Pulse sensor-grips built into the handles monitor your heart rate without the need for straps or wires. However, pulse sensors are generally not as accurate as chest strap heart-rate monitoring.

In our view Brookstone products tend to be overpriced. The tag on this product is a notch high but this is still an affordable basic stair stepper with some nice extra features.

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Mobia by Nautilus Review | 3-in-1 (Stepper, Treadmill, Elliptical) Home workout

Editor — Mon, 10 May 2010 19:20:39 +0000

Combining the climbing motion of a stair stepper, the low-impact benefits of an elliptical trainer and the forward movement of a treadmill, the Mobia by Nautilus aims to take the health benefits of “walking” to a new level.

Nautilus, owner of Bowflex is sometimes criticized for over-hyped, gimmicky fitness equipment, but Gizmodo called Mobia the “iPod of Treadmills”, in part because of the clean white and black aesthetic and sleek, intuitive console.

This machine is designed for 3-in-1, high efficiency walking, not running — the maximum speed is just 4 mph.

Mobia’s independently moving “treadles” let you walk forward like a treadmill while stepping up like a stair climber. These two actions combined provide a core-strengthening cardio workout that’s easy on the ankles and knees. When you step on a treadle it depresses under your weight, absorbing impact and providing the feeling of walking in sand.

In a study conducted at New York’s Adelphi University, Mobia modality burned up to 2 times more calories in 30 minutes than a treadmill at the same speed.

The display tracks 5 functions: Speed, Distance, Time, Total Calories and Heart Rate.

The Mobia comes with a Telemetry Chest Strap that wirelessly monitors heart rate and the specialized Nautilus Nutrition Plan and Introduction to Fitness Guide. Maximum wight capacity is 300 lbs.

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Fold Up Powered Incline Walking Treadmill | LifeSpan Fitness TR200 Fold-N-Stor

Editor — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:40:09 +0000

Here’s a sleek and compact folding treadmill that comes fully assembled out of the box. Ideal for small spaces, the LifeSpan Fitness TR200 easily collapses to fit under a bed, upright in a closet or behind a door.

The blue LCD console features a large, easy to use display with 6 exercise programs. You can track speed, time, distance, steps, heart rate and calories burned.

The incline feature, not always seen in treadmills of this price range, is excellent for varying difficulty and working different muscle groups. A push of a button easily adjusts the incline levels between 4, 6, 8, or 10. Another button skips directly to 3, 4, 5, or 6 miles per hour.

Other features include built-in speakers and headphone port for an iPod or MP3 player.

While this treadmill is sturdy and stable, it’s not the best choice for heavy running. The 1.5-horsepower drive motor offers speed ranges of 0.5 to 8 MPH. For models with more speed and power, browse our other treadmill reviews.

LifeSpan Fitness TR200 Fold-N-Stor Product Details

Fully assembled treadmill
Folds compactly to store under bed or in closet
Blue LCD console tracks time, calories, distance, steps, speed, and incline
Quick-start speed and incline buttons; 3 speed and 3 incline programs
10 Incline levels
Built-in speakers and headphone port
Contact heart rate grips
30.5″ x 51.5″ x 60.5″ — Folds to 13.5″ x 59.5″
Drive motor: 1.5-horsepower continuous-duty motor
Speed: 0.5 to 8 miles per hour
Weight capacity: 250 pounds
Lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the motor, and 1 year on parts and labor

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Smooth Fitness 6.75 Folding Treadmill (2010 Model) | Adjustable Incline & Deluxe Sound System

Editor — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:27:02 +0000

The 6.75 Folding Treadmill, the newest offering from the highly regarded Smooth Fitness brand, is a feature-rich, mid-range machine that replaces the popular 6.45 treadmill model.

There’s nothing negative to say about the older version — the Smooth 6.45 is a solid, high-quality treadmill with a good range of useful features. The 6.75 builds on this foundation with additional features and enhancements.

The improved gas-shock assist, dual stage soft-drop folding system lets you gently lower the deck into place with a foot operated lever. After a workout it can be easily tilted back into folded position and wheeled away for storage.

The 6.75 model features an enhanced, deluxe sound system that accommodates iPods, MP3 players, CD players or other audio devices. No need for tangled headphone wires when using this premium system.

Hand Rail Toggle Switches make it easy to adjust your incline and speed without touching the console or distracting from your workout.

Speed settings range from 0.5 – 12 mph and there are 15 incline levels. The 12 preset programs include 5 speed programs, 5 incline programs, 2 distance programs, plus a heart rate program

Other features include a 3.0 HP motor, a larger and improved dual color LCD display, heart rate control with wireless heart rate strap, ultra quiet, whisper weave treadbelt, transport wheels, water bottle holders and a 2-speed fan.

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The NEW Smooth 6.75 Treadmill direct from Smooth Fitness

Stamina InMotion II Manual Folding Treadmill | Self Powered, Space Saving with Adjustable Incline

Editor — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:56:35 +0000

To contrast the high-end treadmills we regularly review, here’s a look at a self-powered, very affordable model from Stamina.

Th InMotion II features a non-slip, low-impact 42 inch long walking/running surface that lets you set the pace, but your legs are the only motors driving the belt. This a good choice for light jogging or simple walking — still one of the most fundamentally beneficial forms of aerobic exercise.

With no motor the InMotion II saves electricity and is relatively quiet, but far from silent as manual treadmills are sometimes advertised.

The InMotion II includes a multi-function, battery-operated monitor, which tracks distance, workout time, speed, and calories burned.

Other features include two incline positions (8 and 10 degrees), foam-padded front and side rails, a sturdy, heavy-duty steel frame and skid-resistant rubber floor protectors.

The treadmill folds up for convenient storage in a closet, in a corner or under a bed.

If you’re looking for a powered folding treadmill see our reviews of the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill and BodyCraft 1120 Folding Treadmill.

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The Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill on Amazon
The Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill on eBay

Stamina InMotion® II Manual Treadmill Fitness Machine
US $139.00
Auction Ends: Saturday Sep-04-2010 12:06:44 PDT
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Stamina InMotion II Manual Treadmill Folds 1yr warranty
US $99.99
Auction Ends: Saturday Sep-04-2010 20:23:22 PDT
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Bowflex Series 3 Exercise Treadmill | Walking, Runnning Cardio Workout With Incline

Editor — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 23:55:14 +0000

The Bowflex Series 3 Treadmill is an affordable alternative to the highly regarded Series 7, considered one of the best home treadmills for the price by Consumer Reports and many other respected authorities.

Bowflex folding treadmills are robust and reliable and you can’t go wrong with any of the three available models — the Series 3, Series 5 and Series 7.

Like the higher end models, the Series 3 is heavy, bulky and well-constructed with the look and feel of a professional club machine. The 1.75 horsepower continuous-duty motor runs at speeds of up to 10 mph.

The ample walking and running surface measures 20″ X 54″ and features Bowflex’s unique Strike Zone deck cushioning system for stability, comfort and low stress on the feet, ankles, knees and hips. The deck features a 0-12% adjustable incline for a more challenging workout

The workout programs include manual, cardio, running, fat burn, speed interval jogger, and hill intervals, monitored on a crisp four-window LED display.

This treadmill can be folded when not in use and lowered with no effort using the hydraulic power system.

This model does not include chest strap heart rate monitoring. Like many treadmills and elliptical trainers it uses pulse rate grip sensors that do not always produce accurate readings.

The easy to follow instructions and included tools make assembly relatively painless.

Also see the Bowflex TC3000 Treadclimber, an innovative fitness machine that meshes the benefits of treadmills and stair stepping.

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Find the Bowflex Series 3 Treadmill on Amazon
Compare to the Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill
Bowflex Treadmills on eBay

Gym Handy use w/ Treadmill Bowflex Eliptical weights
US $0.99 (0 Bid)
Auction Ends: Thursday Sep-02-2010 18:59:14 PDT
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Bowflex TC5000 Treadclimber Treadmill Fitness Machine
US $900.00 (1 Bid)
Auction Ends: Saturday Sep-04-2010 11:53:32 PDT
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Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Folding Treadmill | Inclined Frame for Walking & Rehab

Editor — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:13:05 +0000

We’ve reviewed many types of motorized treadmills, from entry-level to high-end gym quality models. This is our first look at a manual treadmill that requires no electricity.

For those who can’t afford a powered treadmill or are simply averse to researching the hundreds of available features, a manual model is a simple, economical solution.

The Phoenix 98516 includes a heavy, weighted flywheel and a solid 41.5-by-13.5-inch running surface. The track is set on a small incline allowing the belt to be driven by user weight and motion — the faster you tread, the faster the belt spins.

The 98516 can be used for running but is really more appropriate for walking and rehab. The frame is a bit wobbly while in use and user weight should not exceed 250 pounds.

The easy to learn low-tech display includes a single button, runs on two AA batteries and tracks speed, distance, time, and calories burned.

The folding option and relatively small size make this treadmill simple to move and store. It’s also very easy to assemble.

More Info & Price Comparisons

Click here for the Phoenix 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill
Comare to other Manual Treadmills on Amazon
Phoenix Manual Treadmills on eBay

Phoenix Denise Austin 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill
US $167.35
Auction Ends: Monday Sep-06-2010 8:07:32 PDT
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NEW Manual Treadmill Fitness Phoenix 98516 Tread Mill!
US $93.33
Auction Ends: Tuesday Sep-07-2010 4:56:03 PDT
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Women’s MS-90 Mini Stepper with Twister Plate/Board | Cardio, Flexibility and Calorie Burning

Editor — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 01:35:56 +0000

The MS-90 incorporates a basic stepper, a separate twisting disk and two sets of light dumbbells for a quick, well-rounded and varied cardio/aerobic workout.

The machine is compact, simple to assemble and very easy to use. The twister plate can be removed to further save space in small rooms. On top of the pole sits a small, a very basic computer monitor that tracks steps and time only.

If you’re looking for a robust, sturdy piece of cardio equipment, this is not the best choice. The machine wobbles a bit as you exercise, not unexpected from something so small. But the non-slip pedals and rubber non-skid footpads help maintain balance. Both the stepper and twister provide a good range of motion and an adequate workout.

The MS-90 is marketed as a “hers” option, although there’s no reason why it can’t be used by men as well.

MS-90 Mini Stepper with Twister Plate Product Details

Step machine for cardio/aerobic exercise and calorie burning
Twister board trims waist and improves flexibility
Two 2-pound and two 3-pound neoprene dumbbells
Slip resistant pedals and rubber non-skid footpads
Comfortable foam grip handlebars
Basic exercise computer tracks progress

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a very basic computer monitor that tracks steps and time only.

Smooth Fitness 5.45 Best In Class Folding/Incline Treadmill | Health Club Quality Home Exercise

Editor — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:18:36 +0000

This treadmill is the sturdiest and most solid that we’ve seen in the under $1,000 price range. Smooth Fitness accomplishes this by going big and heavy — the 5.45 is a rock-solid behemoth.

The Smooth Fitness 5.45 delivers health club quality performance without the shifting or shaking associated with many home models. At 75″ x 36″ x 60″ and 210 pounds this may not be the choice for apartments, condos or small homes, although the folding feature does save space when not in use.

The running deck measures an ample 20″ x 55″ and uses Whisper Weave technology, making the 5.45 as quiet as any home treadmill currently on the market. Other positives include good speed and incline and an advanced shock absorption system that markedly reduces stress on joints.

The downside? The console is less advanced than many comparably priced or even cheaper models. It includes just 6 buttons without much control or variety, although it does track the basics — speed, incline, distance, calories, time and pulse. This may not be of concern to those looking to invest in the running platform rather than the bells and whistles.

The treadmill comes nearly assembled but requires some time to attach a few small pieces and the side rails. Plan to have the help of at least one other person if planning to move it after delivery. Includes a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor and 3-year warranty on parts.