Last Updated on January 30, 2020 by Jeff
Treadmill Overview:
Update: It looks like the ProForm ZT8 is out of stock or possibly discontinued. Click here to checkout ProForm’s newer model, the Smart 400i Treadmill.
If you don’t have the motivation to go to the gym, or need a strong push to get exercising, the ProForm ZT8 could be the treadmill for you. For a reasonable price, the ProForm ZT8 Treadmill provides some great motivational features like 22 built-in programs and iFit® capability. We always get excited in our treadmill reviews when we find a machine where you can fire up a brand new exercise program nearly every day and never be bored with the (potential) monotony of running. The iFit® program will provide you with the ability to train with programs developed by professional trainers, to train for events like 5K, 10K, and marathon races, it allows you to race against other users of iFit® in real time and it allows you to share all of your workout information on social media. The ProForm ZT8 will have you looking forward to your next workout before you even finish the one you’re on. It’s like a motivational speaker in treadmill form.
Update: It looks like the ProForm ZT8 is out of stock or possibly discontinued. Click here to checkout ProForm’s newer model, the Smart 400i Treadmill.
Technical Info:
Dimensions:
- Height: 57”
- Width: 34”
- Length: 72”
- Running surface: 20”x60”
- Item weight: 222.5 lbs
- Max user weight: 325 lbs
Features:
- 1.9” precision welded steel frame, balanced with powder coated finish to ensure quality and durability.
- 2.75 CHP Mach Z motor powering a 2-ply commercial tread belt up to speeds of 12 mph and incline up to 12%.
- Quick control operations for speed and incline to raise and lower your intensity rapidly for that perfect workout.
- Space saver design with Easy Lift Assist allows you to effortlessly fold the treadmill and store it quickly.
- ProShoxTM cushioning to ensure no joint pain during those extended and intense workouts.
- Compatible music port for iPod with two 2” integrated speakers so you can train to your own background music.
- CoolAire 4” workout fan to keep you moving during your most intense workouts.
- Grip pulse EKG heart rate monitor ensures you’re in that perfect target heart rate zone for intense, calorie burning workouts.
- iFit® compatible so you can stay motivated, train for events or compete against other runners. Requires iFit® wireless module (sold separately) and iFit® subscription.
Computer Features:
- 6” backlit display.
- 22 built-in programs
- Display readouts include:
- Incline
- Calories
- Time
- Distance
- Heart Rate
- Speed
- ¼ Mile Track
Warranty:
- Frame: 10 yr
- Motor: 10 yr
- Parts: 2 yr
- Labor: 1 yr
Shipping and Assembly:
Shipping costs will vary for the ProForm ZT8 Treadmill depending on where you purchase from and what type of delivery you prefer. However, some retailers, such as Amazon.com, will provide free shipping.
The ProForm ZT8 goes together quickly. It comes packaged with all of the tools you’ll need to put it together and with detailed, step-by-step instructions. The deck itself may be a little heavy to move around by one person, but it can be done. Assembly takes no longer than an hour, even for a novice.
What We Love About the ProForm ZT8 Treadmill:
Computer
ProForm equips there treadmills with some of the best computers on the market and the ProForm ZT8 has a pretty good one for this price point. It has 22 built-in programs to keep you motivated throughout your workout and keep you coming back for more. It is also iFit® compatible. With iFit® you can stay on track and motivated with progressive weight loss programs with trainers like Jillian Michaels.
You can prep for events like 5K, 10K, half and full marathons with personalized training. You can map a route with simulated terrain using Google Maps®. You can compete with others in real-time virtual races. With iFit the amount of workout possibilities are practically limitless. In order to fully utilize this you will need to purchase an iFit® wireless module for about $100, but it also comes with a one year free subscription to iFit®.
What Isn’t So Great:
Heart Rate Monitoring
At this price range, you are starting to fall out of the range of chest strap heart monitoring on treadmills. That is the case with the ProForm ZT8. It does have heart rate monitoring, but it is done through grip sensors, which we all know is not as accurate or efficient as a chest strap. If you look hard enough, you may be able to find a competitor treadmill at this price or maybe a few bucks more with that capability. If you’d like a good starting point, check out our review of the Schwinn® 870 Treadmill.
Final Word on the ProForm ZT8 Treadmill:
The ProForm ZT8 Treadmill is a really good bike at just under $800. It has a decent sized 2.75 CHP motor and good speed and incline up to 12 mph and 12%. The best thing about the ProForm ZT8 Treadmill is the computer, which has tons of programs and the ability to connect to iFit®. Connecting to iFit® provides almost infinite workout options for the user. The only bad thing about the ProForm ZT8 Treadmill is that it does not have the option to use a chest strap heart rate monitor. It only has the ability to use the pulse grips.
Update: It looks like the ProForm ZT8 is out of stock or possibly discontinued. Click here to checkout ProForm’s newer model, the Smart 400i Treadmill.