LifeSpan TR2000 Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

There are two features of the LifeSpan TR2000 that are worth noting  It is compact and the deck can decline. 

I recently checked it out at Fitness Solutions in Knoxville, TN.  Owner Richard Dowdy explained the benefits of the design and what it means to the user.  In general, he had very favorable comments about the overall quality of the machine.

Note: As of 11/18/09 the LifeSpan TR2000 treamill was selling for $1,499 with free shipping on Amazon.com.

Compact Design

If you look at the LifeSpan TR2000 you will notice something different.  There is not a plastic shroud in the front of the deck, which normally houses the motor.  That is because the motor is in the back and underneath the deck.  Consequently, that cuts off a fair amount of the unusable length of the treadmill.  In this case the TR2000 is only 63.5" in length.  That is in comparison to a model like the Sole F85, which is 80" in length. 

You would think that would mean a shorter running surface.  However, they placed the console further forward than most treadmills.  And often the position of the console reduces the active running space.  For example, theLifeSpan TR1000 is your typical treadmill with a front motor drive.   It has a belt that is 20" x 54".  When you take into consideration the placement of the console, which is over the belt, it reduces your usable running space around 43".

Because the position of the motor and the placement of the console you have a  running area of approximately 51" on the LifeSpan TR2000.  So even though the belt is listed as 56" in length, it is more comparable to a treadmill that has a belt rated at 60" or more.  So if space is an issue, this is a model to consider. There is only one minor drawback.  With the motor underneath, it raises the deck, which means you are higher up in comparison to a typical treadmill.

A Treadmill that Declines

There are only a few treadmills in the industry that decline.  Why would you want be able to decline a treadmill?  So you can work out different leg muscles.  Have you ever hiked mountains and hills?  Do you notice the strain on your calves.  With the LifeSpan TR2000 you can simulate the workout you get from hiking up and down.  Note, because of the design, I believe you can only incline up to 10%, which still gives a heart pounding workout.

Other Features - LifeSpan TR2000

2.5 Continuous Duty HP Motor - This motor is adequate for jogging and running.  Fanatic runners should  consider upgrading to a model with a larger motor.

Incline and Speed Controls in Handlebars - Having the controls in the handlebars lets you reach comfortably on your side to make changes.  You don't have to awkwardly reach in front to make adjustments. You'll find this same design on Spirit and Sole treadmills.

Warranty - You get lifetime on the motor, 5-years parts and 1-year labor.  Brands like NordicTrack and ProForm only give you 1-year parts at this price.  Smooth and Sole have the same parts warranty, but offer 2-year labor.

Our Review - LifeSpan TR2000 Treadmill

There are a number of features that are average on this treadmill.  The warranty, the LCD console and the installed programs are nothing special.  What makes this treadmill unique is the compact design and the ability to decline the deck.  In addition, LifeSpan has a decent reputation for quality control and customer service.   

If you're are looking for a treadmill that gives you ample running space, but doesn't take up excessive room — this is it. And if you want a treadmill that can simulate hiking hills — this is it. 

Amazon Customer Reviews

There were eight customer reviews averaging 5 stars, which is the highest rating.  Here is one of the comments...

 “I purchased this treadmill based on the awards and TV shows that I saw this unit featured for its small footprint.  I have limited space in my townhome and had been looking for a folding treadmill that I could jog on.  This has been a great unit and I love the ability to walk uphill or downhill!”

Click here for more Amazon Customer Reviews.