Best Buy Picks
With innovation and ergonomics in mind, Precor was the first company to install electronics in their exercise equipment. Complicated technology provided users of Precor exercise equipment with the first feedback system on a piece of exercise equipment. This feedback allowed users of Precor equipment to enhance their workouts and become more efficient at exercising. In 1983, one of Precor’s treadmills, the 935e, won an Excellence in Design award, given to the company by The Aluminum Association. Two years later, Precor released a complete line of electronic exercise equipment. The lineup included rowers, cycles and treadmills, all ergonomically designed. Again, being the first to the fray, Precor was the first company to release programmable treadmills to the home and commercial settings. In 1990, Precor designed and released the first cushioned treadmill, giving users the ability to worry less about the damage caused to their joints and bones by exercising on Precor equipment.
Precor has a multitude of different types of equipment and different models for nearly anyone. Their treadmills are one of the types of equipment that Precor specializes in and the awards their treadmills have won showcase this dedication. With two different types of series, the Experience Series and the New Experience Series, Precor offers at least 11 different treadmills to their customers. All of them are designed with the user in mind. This mind set has allowed Precor to become one of the top treadmill designers in the nation and gives customers the chance to rave about their products.
What We Like
- Track cushioning: Precor tracks incorporate Ground Effects technology. This variable cushioning system is firmer where the runner’s feet push off the track, and it’s softer where they land. When combined with Precor’s foot plant technology – which constantly adjusts track speed in response to foot speed – Precor tracks are especially supportive running surfaces that reduce stress on runners’ joints.
- Track incline/decline: With the touch of a button, Precor users can adjust their treadmill tracks up to a 15% incline and down to a 2% decline.
- Consoles: The consoles on Precor home treadmills are comparable to those of commercial-grade machines. They include customizable workout programs that track the personal bests of up to four users. Examples of built-in Precor workout programs include a 5K track, a 1-mile track, a fitness test, and a weight loss program.
- Motors: Precor home treadmills have commercial-grade motors that support frequent use, heavier users, and high speeds. The Precor 9.35, for instance, has a 3.0 HP motor and can support up to 400 pounds. Runners can reach a top speed of 12 mph, which is a bit more than the 10mph speed that’s enabled by most other treadmill brands.
- Aesthetics: Amer Sports has designed remarkably unobtrusive treadmills. Although they are extremely solid, they are not bulky or heavy-looking; Precor treadmills are streamlined to blend with home décor.
What We Don’t Like
- Price: Precor machines are a great option for people who can easily afford them. However, more affordable machines of somewhat lesser quality would be sufficient for most home treadmill users.
- Special features: For the price of a Precor, some users would expect special features such as LCD television screens and built-in speakers that are available with other treadmill brands.
Our Verdict
Precor treadmills are world-class workout machines. They are attractive, durable, easy to use, and provide excellent cushioning. The only drawbacks are the price tag and the lack of the latest audio-visual extras that other machines have incorporated.
