One of the problems with the fitness equipment industry is a lack of innovation. There really isn’t much going on. The exception is a new product from Smooth Fitness, called the Smooth Agile DMT.Â
Although similar in many ways to an elliptical trainer, it has several unique features that make it more of a hybrid. In fact, when I talked to Smooth about their new product, they did not call it an elliptical, but rather a “Dynamic Motion Trainer.” Read more …
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 …
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…
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 …
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
This was a recent question from a visitor to the site …
Been reading your site so much I am getting a headache 
 Great information, but I am driving myself crazy going back and forth over several models. I am not sure if you answer advice questions so if you don’t, I understand that reply. I am a first time treadmill purchaser so I want to stay under $1000 in case it ends up collecting dust like many do. It would only be used for walking and jogging by 2 individuals both 5’11″ (210lbs being heaviest) 3-4 times a week. I am not as concerned with ipod capable or someone having 24 workouts over 15. I just want a good reliable machine. I know the smooth 5.25 is very highly recommended, but a couple others I was looking at had larger motors or pads, which may be important for multiple users. Any advice would be appreciated. Here are the 3 I have narrowed:
Thanks!