Proform 3.8 Treadmill Review

The Proform 3.8 treadmill is part of the new range of models for 2008 and has more functionality than the commendable Proform 3.6 – but at a cost, it’s an extra £125 but is it worth it?

It has some very useful features including the innovative iFit Fitness Journal software that gives you daily, weekly, monthly and yearly fitness reports for you plus your partner. One factor in achieving your fitness goals is being able to see your progress – reaching one target drives you on to meet the next.

As more advanced software comes online perhaps the day of the treadmill sitting in the corner doubling up as a clothes hanger are numbered!

Several new functions featured on the Proform 3.8 include Create & SaveTM workouts, they must spend ages thinking up these names :0), gives you the ability to create and customize a training programme and then save it for future use.

Another improvement on the 3.6 is the ProResponseTM Impact Reducing Cushioning which is superior to the ProTech IIITM system. It gives firmer support at the foot-strike and take-off part and softer support throughout the rest – it’s really quite clever and provides a very comfortable running experience associated with higher priced machines.

Our reviewers thought a 2.0 HP motor would have finished this machine off nicely as it would mean a higher speed than 10mph. However, this is quite sufficient for many runners and with the variation in programmes and 10% incline there is more than enough to keep most runners happy for some time.

Where this machine lets itself down is the display, whilst the controls are easy to use and the one-touch buttons to alter speed and incline are useful, the actual display area is quite small and not always easy to read. It also looks dull- more like a fan heater – and uninspiring.

The warranty is very good for a machine this price with lifetime cover on the frame, 5 years on the motor and two years on site parts and labour warranty.

IMPORTANT: Due to the weight of this product, Proform’s warranty is invalid if delivered by a one-man team without special lifting equipment. We can confirm that Sweatband (see below) complies with the terms of the warranty.

Best Price

The is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Review Summary - In Brief

The Proform 3.8 has many useful and innovative features that will keep most runners happy, the iFit software is a big plus. It does look clinical and uninspiring and the display is a bit small but these are minor points that shouldn't put you off. It has a very comfortable running deck and feels stable even at top speed. It also comes with a great warranty which will give peace of mind. A good machine that's well worth a look.

Specifications

■1.75 horsepower (HP) motor

■0 – 16 km/H speed range (0 – 10 mph)

■0-10% powered incline

■QuickspeedTM one touch controls

■LCD display

■6 iFit Workouts

■GrafixxTM Display – you select your preferred workout information

■Create & SaveTM workouts

■SpaceSaverTM Easydrop folding mechanism

■ProResponseTM Impact Reducing Cushioning

■Grip heart rate monitor

■51 x 140 cm walking/running surface

■Maximum user weight 130kg (287 lbs)

Proform 3.8 Treadmill - Console / Display Unit

Proform 3.8 Treadmill - User Reviews

The Pros

  • The features most users liked about this treadmill were:-
  • The folding mechanism was easy to use
  • A good sized running deck on a machine in this price bracket.
  • The feel of the running deck.
  • The iFit workout software and ability to save and monitor your progress.
  • Very good warranty.

The Cons

  • The small display.
  • Its clinical look.
  • Could perhaps benefit from a bigger motor - although no one reported any problems with the 1.75HP.
Proform 3.8 Treadmill Reviewer Ratings

7.5

Power - 6.5
Appearance - 8
Running Area - 8
Comfort - 8
Reliability - 8
Noise - 7.5
Ease Of Use - 7.5
Controls - 7
Warranty - 8.5
Value for Money - 9
Best Price

The is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

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