We live in some very stressful times. War, energy prices, housing crisis, rising food rates all adds up to people stressing out about the future. And we all know that being stressed out is not healthy, physically or mentally. It can not only affect our physical well-being, but can have negative affects on our home life and work environment. Read more …
Smooth 9.45TV Treadmill Rating
2007 was the year of the TV treadmill. The prices ranged from $1,110 – $3,500. Why would you want a television on a treadmill? Because, for the most part, running in place is very boring. No matter how fast you run, you are always in the same place with the same view. Plus I find it tedious to have the seconds ticking off in front of you. It feels like you are in some type of time warp, where time slows down. Read more …
New Smooth 6.45 Treadmill Rating
Smooth just released an upgrade from their popular Smooth 6.25 treadmill – the Smooth 6.45. The 6.25 has proven to be a very reliable and durable treadmill. Building on this winner, they utilized the same frame and electronics and added the following…
- 60″ Treadbelt
- 3.0 HP Continuous Duty Motor
- Swing Arm Shock Absorption System
- Sound System with Audio Input Jack
These features improve the quality of the 6.45 as a jogging/running machine in comparison to the 6.25.
As mentioned, one of the most attractive features of the Smooth 6.26 has been the reliability. The treadmill has an excellent service record. If the Smooth 6.45 is basically the same machine, with several upgrades, hopefully it will also prove to be a low-maintenance treadmill.
The current price of the 6.45, as of 5/19/08, was $1,799. I suspect that price will occasionally drop, when they have it on sale. Click here to read my detailed review and ratings on the Smooth 6.45 treadmill.
Note: As of 3/23/09 the Smooth 6.45 treadmill has had a solid performance and service record. I have yet to receive any negative reviews. The feedback I get from the company is that service issues have been minimal. Since launching the Smooth 6.45, the company has also introduced an upgraded version the Smooth 6.45 M, which includes built-in speakers. Read more …
New Smooth 5.45 Treadmill Rating
Smooth just released the Smooth 5.45 treadmill. This replaces their popular Smooth 5.25 treadmill. I gave the 5.25 a “Best Buy” rating not only for the quality, but also the service record. It was a low-maintenance machine at a reasonable price.
When I found out the Smooth 5.45 was replacing the 5.25, I was reluctant to extend this top rating, since it is a relatively new machine. And often new treadmills have bugs that need to be worked out. I talked to Keith Menear, the Director of Customer Experience (I luv that title.), and he told me the 5.45 is built on the same frame and uses the same electronics. In fact, the console is exactly the same. So that would suggest this new treadmill should have comparable service record.Â
The difference between the two treadmills is the smooth 5.45 comes with a longer deck, has improved shock absorption and is more stable. It weighs a hefty 210 lbs. What makes the 5.45 even more attractive is it sells for the same price as the 5.25 – $999, with shipping. So you are getting more for your money.Â
The $999 price range is very competitive, however you have to be cautious on the brand and model you buy. Being at the high-end of the budget category, you have some models that are lightweight machines built with mediocre components.Â
If you are looking for a moderately price treadmill that can handle walking and light jogging, the Smooth 5.45 is worth considering.
Fred