ProForm Power 690 (Discontinued)
Overview
UPDATE: This model is no longer available for sale. Check out all of the new ProForm treadmills here.
This treadmill is a 2010 model from ProForm that they still have in their offer in 2012. It’s an obsolete model considering the latest treadmills we’ve had the chance to test in 2011 and 2012. If you want to take a look at our review from 2009, when this machine was first launched, please continue reading.
At first glance this machine attracts attention to the folding system, the power of the motor, the iFit card system and, for some runners, the Distance Workouts as well.
But these features are found in other offers ProForm has to offer for less money (up to $900).
We gave this machine a try. Find out more about our conclusions at the end of this review.
Specifications
Click Specifications to see detailed model info
Speed: 1-12 mph : Speed is changed through the Quick Speed and the buttons located at hand on the right side of the console.
Inclination: 0-12% : Incline is changed through Quick Incline and the buttons located on the left side of the console.
Motor: 2.75 CHP : This machine has a Mach Z Commercial Plus motor with the inbuilt cooling system.
Belt: 20'' x 5'' (51cm x 140cm) : The belt is backed by a ProTech Cushioning system included to reduce joint impact with 15% less than road running.
Metal Frame :
Supported user weight: 300 lbs (~150kg) :
Warranty : You receive a lifetime warranty for frame and motor and 1 year for parts and labor.
Features
Space Saver Design
The deck folds (almost) vertically which allows saving space.
Dual Grip EKG Heart Rate Monitor
Handle Bars are positioned parallel with the front of the console. Heart rate readings are done through the handlebars and listed on the console. For accurate readings stay with the hands on the handlebars at least 15 seconds.
3. iFit Training Module
This module is optional, not included.
Read our review on the iFIT LIVE module to find out more details about it.
Grafixx Display
The display is more fun and interactive with Grafixx Display.
This is what you see while working out:
– The incline level
– The speed
– The distance walked or run
– The elapsed time
– Pace in minutes per mile or minutes per kilometer
– The approximate number of calories burned
– Heart rate
5. 16 preset Workouts
– 4 Distance workouts (1 mile, 5k, 10k or half marathon)
– 4 Performance Workouts
– 4 Calorie workouts
– 4 Timed workouts
– 1 Manual mode
Manual mode appears every time the key is inserted. Note that each workout controls automatically incline and speed.
Fan
The fan has low and high speeds. If you turn on the fan and forget it after you complete the training it will automatically turn off after a few minutes.
Compatible with iPod and Sound System included
In the Audio jack you can connect a CD player, and MP3 player or the iPod. Sound is playing on the console speakers.
Conclusions
The first thing we wanted to test is the ProTech cushioning system. From our experience we know this cushion system should reduce the impact over joints up to 33% (not only 15%) as stated by ProForm in their Specs.
After our test we declare ourselves satisfied with this feature.
Another detail that got our attention is the Distance Workouts. The Half Marathon workout we liked the best but all are equally interesting to be tested and used.
The pre-set workouts are very cool. But if you prefer the ProForm Power 690 Treadmill buy the iFit Module too. It’s a must to be used and played with because of various reasons: it’s fun, useful and sort of geeky.
But we noted some disadvantages that you should be aware when looking into this offer. Assembly requires 2 persons and with some muscles on them. To avoid problems better hire a specialist to do this job for you.
You have the folding option but to fold the machine you should be able to lift 20 kg (45 lbs) minimum and not have back problems. And if you don’t do this right you might get some new problems.
And a final note is that this is a home-use treadmill built to be used moderately, not a treadmill for gym use.
Overall the machine is good, powerful, does the job it’s meant to for those who work out on a daily basis for a healthy life. Still for the same features (or even better) there are other offers ProForm has launched.
PS: A very unpleasant detail is that on the ProForm Customer Service website, for some models the User Manual must be paid for. It’s so easy to scan and make a manual in .PDF version then give it to download for unlimited times. Not to mention this also saves some trees.
UPDATE: The ProForm Power 690 is no longer available for sale. You can check out all of the latest ProForm treadmills on the official site to see which one is right for you.
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