ProForm Cardio Strong Review

Editor's Rating: 7.0/10

The ProForm Cardio Strong Treadmill, which sells for around $800 from popular retailers like Costco, is an affordable machine that provides basic comfort and convenience features.

The frame on the Cardio Strong Treadmill is equipped with the patented Space Saver design, so it can fold vertically in just one step. However, this not necessarily a compact model with a running area of 20″ wide and 55″ long. The drive system features a 2.6 CHP Mach Z Motor and the treadmill’s weight capacity is 300 pounds.

For joint support, this model is designed with the ProShox Cushioning system. There are also 1.9″ precision-machined and non-flex rear rollers for additional comfort and less wear and tear. Users can incline from 0 to 10% with the Cardio Strong Treadmill, and speeds top out at 10 mph. Like other ProForm models similar to this one, incline and speed changes can be made using the Quick Incline/Quick Speed keys on the console.

Also on the console is an LCD display screen (dimensions are not disclosed, but it’s fairly small), that comes with 18 built-in workout apps and the Onboard Marathon Training program that works to help you maintain your target pace. This console also comes with a small speaker and smartphone compatibility, as well as a CoolAire two-speed cooling fan and two water bottle holders. TO keep track of your heart rate while working out, you can access the grip-pulse EKG heart rate monitor system.

The warranty on this model includes lifetime coverage on the frame, 25 years coverage on the motor, and 1 year for parts and labor.

What We Like:

  • Onboard Marathon Training Program: This is a unique feature that can help you maintain your target pace if you training for a race or other event. It works like a metronome, providing an audible tone that keeps you in sync with your target pace, called the Cadence Coach.
  • Folding Design: This is not really a “compact” treadmill, so while it does fold up, it’s not going to be as discreet as say other more inexpensive models that are really compact. But, this model features a frame that can be easily folded in just one step, making it ideal for in-home use.
  • Price: ProForm typically offers treadmills that are pricier, so it’s nice to have an inexpensive model from a more well-known brand like ProForm. This model retails for right around $800.


What We Don’t Like:

  • Display Screen: The dimensions for the LCD display are not disclosed, but we assume it’s only about a 5-6″ screen. This small screen provides the bare basics, but it’s pretty difficult to read, especially when you are in motion on the treadmill.
  • Overall Quality: This machine has been known to be pretty noisy, and the speaker and fan pretty weak too. It’s an inexpensive model so we would not expect superior quality, but these qualities are definitely something to take into consideration.
  • Speed and Incline: This model tops out at 10 mph and offers incline up to 10%. This is not terrible if you are purchasing this model for solely walking, but it takes away from the overall versatility of the machine with such limited speed/incline options.


Our Verdict:

The name of the ProForm Cardio Strong Treadmill can be a bit deceiving as it’s not particularly strong and the incline/speed ranges don’t offer a lot of cardio variety. However; as an inexpensive model for light jogging, some running, and walking, it’s not terrible. Check out our reviews of the best treadmills for in-home use for some better, more durable suggestions.

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