TrimMaster T310 Treadmill Review

The TrimMaster T310 treadmill is the new entry-level model in their range – that means the cheapest. However, there’s nothing ‘cheap’ about the T310 and we were impressed, on the whole, by it.

One of the virtues of the T310 is its compactness. If you’re like many buyers looking for a treadmill with limited space there’s not a lot to choose from. If the ultra compact Reebok I-Run isn’t for you – it is rather basic, this machine offers much more for taking up only a little extra space – although this doesn’t fold flat like the Reebok.

The compromise is that the deck is a bit short. The width is fine but some may feel a little uneasy running at the top speed of 10mph when you find the console is getting futher away – mind you it’s a good incentive to pick up the pace again!

However, the deck is very comfortable with its shock absorption system and the motor, although only 1.5 HP, was quiet enough at jogging speed and even at top speed was still well within acceptable limits. The manufacturer is happy to include a 15 year warranty on the motor so it must be a good one!

The big feature on this machine is the incline and speed controls built into the handles. This allows you to change both settings quickly and easily without interrupting you stride. This is easily the lowest price model to our knowledge that has this function. If you’ve a long running stride you might feel the handles are a little short but most of us had no problems with them.

The handles also contain the grips to measure your pulse and the T310 comes with one heart rate controlled programme to get you into the fat-burning zone – one of the cheapest models with this feature on the market. Another bonus is the built-in polar chip that allows you to use a chest strap (optional). This is by far a better way to measure your heart rate as firstly the sensor is right over your heart and therefore far more accurate than taken from your palms, and secondly, you can keep running without having to place your hands on the grips.

The 7 pre-set programmes are varied enough to keep you coming back for more and the top speed of 10mph and 10% incline are high enough for most runners. It’s important to keep your training programme varied for both motivational and fitness purposes and we feel the T310 has sufficient programmes to do this.

Quality machines come with good warranties and this one certainly does – it has an impressive 15 year cover on the frame and motor, and two years on-site parts and labour for everything else.

Available in UK for £599 from Fitness Options