If you were just shopping for one of these the first time, you might not know the difference between it and something that probably would not be as reliable. There are proliferating web sites that essentially review what the marketing materials of exercise equipment producers say and then maybe get the opinion or verification of a credentialed runner. Not to discount the fact that features can be of varying importance; however, the thing that people tend to miss is that if an adult gets on something regularly and jogs, beyond maybe 100 miles of testing, it tends to break down. With these things in mind let me qualify the following by saying that I got a full refund on my used CS550 because it needed to be almost completely refurbished after failing during its very first 5k workout, and it only has about 300 miles on it since.
Let’s say you have been jogging for 20 minutes–who knows how far–and there is some fatigue setting in. Maybe you take a heavy step forward or maybe one foot comes down on the frame as well as the belt. In neither situation would anything be damaged on a CS550. This TRUE has a metal frame, so the side railings that one stands upon are far less likely to be affected (and noisy after) than plastic parts. However, some home units that include internet connectivity features probably would incur damage. Further, if covered under warranty, as with a FreeMotion Incline Trainer, the technician sent pursuant to making a claim might never have worked on the particular item, or even the brand, before.
There is also the changing physiological state of anyone who exercises. You almost assuredly will become sore, and probably will pull, strain, or perhaps even severely injure something. People break down just like exercise equipment does; though ideally we get stronger as we recover. If you do a few miles, or hours, a day until something behind your knee cap is sore, you might realize that the TRUE machine is likely to be fully operational whenever you are ready again.
The CS550 may have been near the top of the product line and the brand itself has expensive merchandise. Typically, something similar might be identified with opulence. That could be consistent for the percentage of persons who essentially obtain an expensive coat hanger or hat rack when their exercise equipment is only used briefly and then not at all. The luxury here is associated with durability.
The CS550 may have been near the top of the product line and the brand itself has expensive merchandise. Typically, something similar might be identified with opulence. That could be consistent for the percentage of persons who essentially obtain an expensive coat hanger or hat rack when their exercise equipment is only used briefly and then not at all. The luxury here is associated with durability.
The CS550 is on the quiet side in comparison to a FreeMotion unit I had previously. The 5HP alternating current motor is mostly to meet club or multi-user needs and is not quieter than a smaller motor would be. Because of the essentially bullet-proof drive system, it is approved for users who weigh up to 500 lbs. (if some 300 lb persons can record a 6 minute mile, they might demonstrate it on someone else’s!). You probably could improve by a few decibels if there is a similar model with a 4HP motor and then it might only be authorized for persons up to 400 lbs.
The cushioning makes use of neoprene. I had not heard of neoprene before, which is also used in varied applications that include wetsuits. It is effective at absorbing impact. TRUE’s system is described as being firmer at the back where the foot pushes off and softer where it strikes. Though it probably absorbs 15% of what one’s lower body would normally have to, the simple cushions were not visually impressive to look at. As with other commercial units, this particular model does not have the brand’s adjustable cushioning and is set at the softest setting permanently.
The dimensions are unlikely to be a problem for anything except maybe floor space. If you are particularly tall, with a gargantuan stride, perhaps there would be an issue. There is good width to the running surface.
Most of TRUE’s home models have a pricier orthopedic walking surface that is thicker as to absorb added impact. A modest trade off is that it requires regular waxing, every 3 months if I am not mistaken. Because this is a commercial unit, it does not have an orthopedic belt system (and plugs into a 20 amp socket, not the standard outlet). It should not require maintenance for thousands of miles.
This unit has a fan installed; under a 15″ touch screen, which was an expensive add-on feature. While varied reviewers will pay attention to consoles, my own opinion is that they can miss the utility of an installed fan. The fan might aim low, but is still welcome, and has two speeds. FreeMotion’s cool air system did have it dialed in better. Still, a stand up floor fan might be the preferred method.
Included programs accept inputs such as age and weight, and combine them with other specifications such as speed and incline (an added kit would allow it to decline and it could be a worthwhile upgrade). You can also watch television over the full 15″ screen by attaching a coaxial cable from a DVR or cable box. However, it does not have speakers so the user probably needs headphones to listen.
It is a high-quality piece of equipment. What I mean by that is it is very sturdy, and unlikely to make squeaking sounds even if you are thudding and stumbling on it regularly. If this absorbs 15% of impact, there could be a competitive product that is better for the bones and joints, either way it is easier on them than asphalt, or a rubberized surface. Space should be adequate for most of the big and tall folks, but I cannot verify how reliable it would actually be for someone who weights closer to 400 lbs., particularly if he or she is fleet of foot.