Precor TRM 211 Review

Name: Precor TRM 211
Brand: Precor

Last Updated Apr 19, 2022

Updated byJessica Jones, NASM-CPT, CNC, BCS

Editor's Rating: 6.2 /10

The TRM 211 is the entry level model in the Energy™ Series by Precor, offered for $2,499. Precor’s instinctive Energy™ Series is a line of residential treadmills that are designed with convenience features for easy and comfortable workouts, using comfort technology features exclusive to Precor. While we can speak to the overall quality of Precor treadmills, its asking price is a bit steep considering this is the brand’s “entry level” offering.

What sets this series apart from others is its focus on both comfort and personalization. One of the top features of the Energy™ Series is the special shock absorption system that uses Precor’s own Energy Stride ™ Technology. This technology uses a deck mounting system to offer underfoot cushioning tailored to your individual stride by reducing impact on areas where you need it the most.

It’s easier to set and track fitness goals when you have precise information tailored individually to your needs, and Precor offers features to help you achieve your personal objectives. For example, the built-in SmartRate® Zone heart rate tracking program not only gives you feedback on your heart rate as you run or walk; it also categorizes this feedback into one of four groups (warm up, fat burn, cardio and high), and then displays this feedback on an easy-to-read visual scale. That said, it falls flat in that the 211 is the only treadmill in this lineup that does not offer any sort of wireless heart rate monitoring option. Needless to say that when you’re running, you don’t want to have to keep your hands on the touch sensors, so this “SmartRate” program isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

What We Like:

Advanced Comfort Features: Energy Stride™ Technology offers quality shock absorption by allowing the deck to conform to your personal stride, delivering optimal support to areas of the deck where you need it most. This feature is ideal for joint support while running or walking.
Motor: Featuring a continuous duty 3.0 HP motor, the highest performing motor on the market, means that the horsepower is maintained throughout the workout for a steady, durable motor that will endure workout after workout. This motor is incredibly quiet, smooth, and long-lasting.
Deck: While this model has a shorter deck at 57 inches long and 20 inches wide, it is also more compact and therefore easier to use in smaller spaces. The belt is made with multi-ply polyester coated with dry silicone lubrication, meaning no maintenance necessary. Precor also features a PVC non-slip surface for increased safety.
Incline/Decline: Most treadmills offered at this price point will feature inclines of up to 12%, but the TRM 211 has an incline of up to 15%. And while there is no decline option, with an incline this steep, users can easily achieve hill runs and interval training at steeper grades.
Warranty: Precor offers an impressive lifetime warranty on the frame, along with a five year warranty on parts.

Precor TRM 211 Treadmill - Key Specs:

Star Rating:	3.1-stars
Motor:	3.0 HP
Incline:	0 to 15%
Running Area:	20" x 57"
Folding:	No
Top Speed:	12 MPH
Weight Capacity:	300 LBS
Dimensions:	81" L x 32" W x 54" H
Built-In Programs:	6

What We Don’t Like:

Console: The TRM 211 is designed with a basic blue and white LCD screen, but this model is not compatible with either Android or Apple devices, and there are no audio or entertainment options. The console area is also smaller than other models, so there’s less room to store your device or other accessories.
Workout Programs: There are only 6 preset workout programs featured on the TRM 211. Unlike other models in this series, the 211 does not include any personalized user IDs to store individual user workout data.
No Bluetooth: A lack of connectivity for wireless heart rate monitors makes some programming far less useful than it should be.
Price: If you just want a robust treadmill with a good warranty and little in the way of features, this isn’t the worst option out there, but with a sticker price north of $2,000 it’s really a tough sell in a competitive marketplace.
Frame: This model does not have any handlebars, making it difficult for stability, which can also be a safety issue for some.
Max Weight: The max user weight for this treadmill is up to 350 pounds, which isn’t bad, but most high performance treadmills have a weight capacity of 400 pounds or more.
Deck: The average deck length is around 60 inches so this deck comes in with a shorter than average deck at 57 inches, which can be a problem for taller people or users who want to do sprint training.

Our Verdict:

Let’s be blunt here. The Precor TRM 211 tries and fails to meet our expectations of what a $2,000+ treadmill should look like. If you want something sturdy and reliable with a good warranty, it just barely passes the test, but it may not be the best option for you if you are looking for more advanced options in terms of workout programming, heart rate monitoring, and other bells and whistles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Precor TRM 211 compatible with wireless heart monitors?

The machine works with any Polar® compatible wireless heart rate transmitter, but those are sold separately.

How long does the Precor TRM 211 last?

A lot of a treadmill's life expectancy is contingent on usage and care. We'd say 5-10 years is a safe bet with this model depending on those factors, and the Precor TRM 211's warranty will help ensure its longevity.

Is the Precor TRM 211 quiet?

Our experience, as well as that of other users, is that this model is indeed quite quiet for a treadmill. It should not interfere with roommates or other family members.

Does the Precor TRM 211 have elevation control?

Yes, this treadmill offers 15% incline with push button control. No decline is offered.