Reebok Z8 Run Folding Treadmill Review

The Reebok Z8 Run folding treadmill is a new model launched by Reebok Fitness in the UK in 2011. With this treadmill, Reebok is addressing the demand for a treadmill that is both compact and feature rich.

This treadmill requires minimal assembly. The machine is pretty much pre-built in the box and just needs to have a few bolts putting on to secure the uprights and console in place and a couple of plastic covers need to be screwed into place.

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 10 mph (16 kph). The treadmill also has 12 levels of  electronically controlled incline (12%).

The console has 8 quick speed keys that enable the speed to be adjusted with a single press as well as 6 quick incline button to enable the adjustment of incline between 2% and 12% with ease. We are fans of these shortcut keys on treadmills as it makes it easier to adjust the speed and incline of a machine during a run.

For a compact sized treadmill, the running area is pretty decent with a width of 41cm (16 inches) and a length of 130cm (51 inches). The running deck provides ample cushioning with two elastomers along each side of the running deck. The design inspiration of this treadmill came from the Reebok Zig shoe and given this, we had expected to see decent cushioning and haven’t been disappointed!

Reebok have really gone to town on the console providing a 3 LED feedback windows as well as an LCD screen and speakers. The basic feedback information such as speed, incline, exercise duration, distance covered and pulse rate are provided on the clear and bright LED windows, whilst the LCD is used primarily for the programmes.

The treadmill has 12 pre-set programmes. The profile of each one is printed on the console itself and for each programme, the duration can be set by the user. Each of the programmes control both the speed and incline of the treadmill with a good variation of difficulty levels between the individual programmes. Of course, the treadmill can be controlled easily in manual mode, where the user adjusts the speed and incline to their liking. A little nice touch is that it’s possible to set a time, distance or calorie target with the manual programme, making it easier to achieve goals. Finally, there is a body fat test function that requires the age, gender, weight and height to entered into the console and the pulse grip sensors to be grabbed for about ten seconds to get a measurement.

The folding mechanism is easy to use and provides hydraulic assistance. Transport wheels are also provided which enables the treadmill to be tilted and moved about whilst folded. The Reebok Z8 Run folding treadmill comes with a decent warranty that covers both parts and labour for a full 2 years.

Best Price

The Reebok Z8 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 Reebok Z8 Run folding treadmill is a nice, solid, user friendly compact sized treadmill. Good shock absorbtion, along with a combination of LED windows and an LCD screen on the console make this treadmill stand out in the crowd. At this sub £450 price, this treadmill is very easy to recommend!

Reebok Z8 Specifications

  • 2 horsepower (HP) continuous duty , self cooling motor
  • 0 – 16 km/H speed range (0 – 10 mph) with one touch keys for 2,4,6,8,10,12,14 and 16 kph
  • 0-12% power incline with one touch keys for 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% & 12%
  • 3 LED windows + back lit LCD screen for feedback – see below
  • 12 pre-set programmes + manual control with targets + body fat test function
  • Hang grip pulse sensors
  • EasyDrop folding mechanism with self locking latch
  • Cushioned deck with 4 elastomers
  • Grip heart rate monitor, Polar receiver built in and chest belt optional
  • 41cm x 130 cm running surface
  • Maximum user weight 110kg (243 lbs)
  • In Use: Length = 165cm, Width = 75cm, Height = 131cmm
  • Folded: Length = 96cm, Width = 75cm, Height = 149cmm

Reebok Z8 - Console / Display Unit

Reebok Z8 - User Reviews

The Pros

  • The features most users liked about this treadmill were:-
  • Very effective impact absorbtion
  • Multiple user profiles and lots of programmes
  • The feel of the machine when running
  • Very good warranty.

The Cons

  • Running deck a little shorter than similarly priced machines - could be a bonus if space is limited
  • No wireless heart rate measurement
Reebok Z8 Reviewer Ratings

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

The Reebok Z8 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

Also see our Treadmill Comparison Table

Whilst every effort is made to give you accurate information we cannot guarantee the technical specification. Models change on a regular basis and may differ slightly from the above review. We recommend you contact the retailer if you have a question regarding technical data. Please read our Legal Disclaimer

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