Reebok T4.2 IWM Folding Treadmill Review

The Reebok T4.2 IWM folding treadmill is a brand new addition to the Reebok performance series of fitness equipment and is an upgraded version of the highly popular T4.2 treadmill originally in 2011.

So, starting with the basics: This is a solid and sturday machine with a powerful 2 horsepower motor that makes light work of turning the belt to the maximum speed of the 11.2 mph (18 kph). The speed can be controlled using direct speed keys on the console that allow you to increase or decrease the current speed to 2,3,5,7,9 or 11mph.

The running deck is nice and roomy with a 50cm wide belt and the elastomer cushioning along with the deck work well to reduce joint impact whilst running.
This treadmill offers a maximum incline of 12% (electronic incline) and the level can be conrolled through the six direct incline keys on the console (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12%), in addition to the standard up and down buttons for incline.

So far, this treadmill seems like a good, sturdy running machine of a decent spec… The feature that is unique on this machine is the three magic letters in its name: IWM. This stands for Interactive Weight Management and is a rather clever system! The treadmill is supplied with a stylish set of scales that communicate with the treadmill wirelessly. The console has the facility for up to 7 users to setup their individual profiles consisting of age, gender, height and weight (which is set using the wireless scales). The computer automatically works out a target weight using a the data from the profile by calculating the user’s Once the user profile is quickly setup, using the weight management functionality is dead straightforward: select the user profile, press the large weight management button on the console and stand on the scales until three beeps are heard to confirm successful communication with the treadmill. The clever weight management system works out the difference between your actual weight and target weight and designs a custom programme with a target calories and distance! Even a small variation in your weight (100 grammes) will result in a different programme being designed! Whilst we’d question the fitness validity of using a BMI calculation to work out a target weight and whether daily variations in a person’s weight should be used, we have to say that we’re huge fans of this system for a very simple reason: it takes the thinking out of using a treadmill for weight loss and provides great motivation and variety!

The console features a blue backlit LCD which is clear and easy to read. The screen provides all of the vital statics ranging from heart rate, speed, incline, distance being run, user profile selected etc. In addition to the weight management system, there are a total of 29 programmes assembled together into 6 logical groups: interval incline programme (9 intensity levels), interval speed programme (9 levels), weight loss (9 levels), 5k/3 mile programme and heart rate control (HRC) programme. The HRC programme requires the use of the chest strap that is included with the machine. Heart rate controlled programmes that automatically adjust the speed or incline of the treadmill to keep you in your target heart rate zone are the most effective means of achieving fitness goals.

Another nice characteristic of the Reebok T4.2 IWM treadmill is that is ships mostly assembled in the box. Completing the assembley is only a matter of bolting in the uprights, connecting and screwing in the console and mounting some cover plastics. It comes with the tools needed and the entire process can be done in 20 minutes – even by those that find anything beyond IKEA furniture a challenge!

The folding mechanism on this treadmill is quite unique. Reebok call it their “transformer” mechanism: it results in the treadmill being folded almost completely vertically and the result is that the floor space used by the treadmill when in its folded position is a mere 82cm by 86cm! This is the smallest folded footprint of any treadmill that we’ve seen of a similar specifications. Additionally, moving the treadmill around is a little easier than normal due to third trolley wheel that pops out. We can confirm that this is much easier to do than the standard mechanism with folding treadmills: tilting the whole machine onto two wheels at the back and maveuring it!

The Reebok T4.2 IWM treadmill comes the sort of warranty you’d expect from a market leading brand: Lifetime frame, 10 years on the motor as well as a full 2 years on site parts and labour.

Best Price

The Reebok T4.2 IWM 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

A high specification treadmill with a price tag that won't break the bank! A well designed and engineered treadmill that provides a wealth of training options and is ideal for those aiming for weight loss and those wishing to train for running events. With its superior maneuverability and vertical folding mechanism, this treadmill is perfect for those with limited space that do not wish to compromise on any features normally found in gym class treadmills.

Reebok T4.2 IWM Specifications

  • 2 horsepower (HP) continuous duty , self cooling motor
  • 0 – 18 km/H speed range (0 – 11.2 mph) with one touch keys for 2, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11mph
  • 0-12% power incline with one touch keys for 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% & 12%
  • Backlit LCD – see below
  • Interactive Weight Management functionality with wireless scales
  • 29 programmes, including heart rate control
  • 9 user profiles
  • EasyDrop folding mechanism with self locking latch
  • Cushioned deck for impact absorbtion
  • Grip heart rate monitor, Polar receiver built in and chest belt included
  • 50 x 130 cm running surface
  • Maximum user weight 130kg (286 lbs)
  • Transformer folding mechanism

Reebok T4.2 IWM - Console / Display Unit

Reebok T4.2 IWM - User Reviews

The Pros

  • Feel of the running deck and cushioning
  • Clever weight management system with the wireless scales
  • Multiple user profiles and lots of programmes
  • Folding mechanism resulting in small dimensions when folded
  • Very good warranty.

The Cons

  • Running deck a little shorter than similarly priced machines - could be a bonus if space is limited
  • No speakers
Reebok T4.2 IWM Reviewer Ratings

Power - 9.5
Appearance - 9.5
Running Area - 9.5
Comfort - 9
Reliability - 9
Noise - 9
Ease Of Use - 9.5
Controls - 8.5
Warranty - 9
Value for Money - 9.5
Best Price

The Reebok T4.2 IWM 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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