Last Updated: February 12, 2024
After the success of Horizon Fitness, Johnson Health Tech needed a premium fitness brand to balance out their affordable brand. In 2001, Matrix Fitness was born. Matrix Fitness makes commercial and residential treadmills. Their commercial equipment is available in hotels and gyms as well as used by sports teams. With two decades of experience, Matrix is now a respected fitness brand that makes treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and more.
Matrix Treadmill Product Line Summary
Matrix Fitness makes two treadmill lines: folding and non-folding treadmills. All of Matrix’s treadmills use the Ultimate Deck, which is a moderately firm running surface. The decks are firmer than those of Horizon and much firmer than the soft running decks of NordicTrack and Freemotion. The Matrix treadmills come with multiple console options, so the base price of the machine could increase depending on the console you settle on. The console options range from low-tech LCD screens to high-tech touchscreen displays. The touchscreen displays offer nearly unlimited content options and are some of the best for walkers and runners who want training and entertainment options.
TF Series Folding Treadmills
Matrix’s folding treadmills are particularly impressive, because the treadmill decks fold nearly 90 degrees. They also have four transport wheels that allow the treadmills to be more easily relocated than others. The TF30 is a compact walking and running treadmill with a smaller running deck and a 15% incline. The TF50 is a larger treadmill with a more spacious running deck, perfect for fast running and users with a longer stride.
T Series Non-Folding Treadmills
Matrix’s non-folding treadmills have welded steel frames. The series starts with the T30 which is nearly identical to the TF30, except it does not fold. Likewise, the T50 is nearly identical to the TF50. These frames are stronger, because they do not have folding mechanisms like the TF folding treadmills. The best treadmill in the series, the T75, has a very sturdy frame and deck. However, it is the T75’s commercial-grade AC motor that makes it a standout. It also has the widest running deck at 22”.
Other Matrix Equipment Reviews
Matrix Fitness makes several other categories of equipment apart from treadmills. Their cardio line includes ellipticals, stair climbers (or ClimbMills™), bikes, and rowers. The ICR50, Matrix’s studio bike, has a rear flywheel and a beautiful large display. There are also a few strength options and accessories. The cardio machines have similar console options as the treadmills. They have great builds that pull from Matrix’s commercial experience to make a quality residential product.
Content Options with Matrix Treadmills
Matrix is not owned by iFIT, but in a unique partnership, they are able to offer the platform on their smart displays. Unlike other iFIT treadmills, Matrix treadmills have more content options even if you choose not to subscribe. There are built-in training programs and Virtual Active routes. The virtual routes can be upgraded with Virtual Active expansion packs available through Matrix. Another popular option on the Matrix treadmills is the Sprint 8 program. This interval workout is fast and effective. Lastly, Matrix has tons of built-in apps for entertainment including Instagram, Facebook, and more.
Note: not all of the consoles provide access to all of the content options. The XR console does not have access to the smart training options and has more basic treadmill programs available.
Common Features on Matrix Treadmills
Matrix treadmills have solid builds. They have multiple console options ranging from simple LCD screens to HD touchscreens. They have USB charging ports, HDMI connections, WiFi connectivity, and Bluetooth. The treadmills have 15% inclines. The belt size ranges from 20 to 22 inches wide and 55 to 60 inches long. All of the treadmills are built using the Ultimate Deck cushioning. The treadmills typically have lifetime warranties on the frame, motor, and cushioning. Parts and labor warranties vary.
If you are looking for a treadmill with similar content options to the Matrix treadmills but need a more affordable machine, try NordicTrack or ProForm for iFIT. Sole treadmills also have unlimited content options like the Matrix treadmills.
Bottom Line Matrix Fitness Treadmills
Matrix is the sister brand of Horizon and Vision Fitness. Matrix Fitness manufactures residential and commercial treadmills. The residential treadmills have sturdy designs with firm running decks. The folding treadmills have nearly vertical folding decks. The T75 of the non-folding treadmill series has a very powerful AC motor. Matrix Fitness Treadmills have multiple console options with extensive content. The treadmills have Virtual Active outdoor routes, Sprint 8 programming, iFIT, and more. There are also built-in third-party apps from Netflix, Spotify, and more. Matrix treadmills rank highly for me as compact full-sized treadmills and treadmills with unlimited content options.
