Last Updated: February 13, 2024
TRUE Fitness has been making treadmills for homes for over 40 years. In 1988, they stepped into the commercial space and have made a solid impact there ever since. TRUE Fitness is headquartered in Missouri, USA. In 2020, TRUE Fitness acquired Octane Fitness.
TRUE Fitness Product Line Summary
TRUE Fitness has six home treadmills. These treadmills are built with sturdy welded steel frames and cushioned running decks. They vary from low-tech consoles to high-tech touchscreens. These treadmills are priced at a premium with their most affordable treadmill starting at nearly $3,000. TRUE Fitness treadmills are non-folding treadmills. They have excellent warranties with a lifetime on the frame and 20+ years on the motor. Parts are covered by a 5, 7, or 10-year warranty. These warranties are extremely competitive. The long-lasting design of TRUE treadmills is one reason they are priced so high.
M Series Treadmills
TRUE Fitness only has one M series treadmill available–the M50. This treadmill is TRUE’s most affordable treadmill. It has an easy-to-use console with large buttons. The deck is 20” x 58”, and while this is shorter than most running treadmills, most users should be able to run without running out of space. It has a weaker motor (3.0 HP DC) and a lower maximum user weight capacity (300 lbs) than we expect at its price point. For performance features, the M50 has a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour and can incline to 15%. There are built-in workout programs.
Z Series Treadmills
The Z5.0 is TRUE’s only treadmill in this series. It is a compact, non-folding treadmill with a very durable frame. It has a soft, orthopedic belt that provides a cushioned landing area with a firm push-off zone. It has an LCD screen with large buttons. The compact running surface of 20” x 54” is best for walking, but the treadmill has a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour. Petite runners or those with a shorter stride may be able to run on the Z5.0. It also has a maximum incline of 15%.
Performance Series Treadmills
TRUE Fitness’s Performance line includes three treadmills: the 1000, the 3000, and the 8000. These treadmills have robust builds. The 1000 and 3000 have TRUE’s True Soft System cushioning while the 8000 has Soft Select Adjustable cushioning. These treadmills have a maximum user weight capacity of 350 lbs. The maximum speed is 12 miles per hour and the incline range is 0 to 15%. With any of the Performance treadmills, you have an option of an LCD or touchscreen display. Naturally, the touchscreen console is more expensive.
Excel Series Treadmill
TRUE Fitness’s Excel 900 treadmill is their high-end treadmill. This treadmill has a 9” or 16” touchscreen for console options. The 16” console option increases the treadmill’s price by $2000, which doesn’t make sense to us considering that treadmills that cost just over $2000 total have similarly sized touchscreen consoles. The Excel 900 is built with commercial-grade materials. It has adjustable cushioning and uses TRUE’s orthopedic belt. It has a -3% decline to a 15% incline and a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour. I was surprised that the Excel 900 had a 4 HP DV motor, because I expected an AC motor at its price point, but it should still support a high level of activity.
Other True Fitness Equipment Reviews
In addition to treadmills, TRUE Fitness also makes ellipticals and exercise bikes. They also have one multi-station strength machine. Their ellipticals are high-quality and have a unique upper-body only workout option. The exercise bikes include one recumbent bike and one upright bike. Many of these equipment options have the option of a simple LED screen or a touchscreen display.
Bottom Line TRUE Fitness Treadmill Reviews
TRUE Fitness is for the shopper who prioritizes a high-quality construction, impressive warranty, and long-lasting performance over spiffy features. TRUE fitness equipment does not require you to have a subscription of any sort though some of the treadmills pair with third-party apps. Key features that may interest you in TRUE include the orthopedic running belt and the adjustable cushioning. However, TRUE’s prices are quite high and do not come with the smart features offered by other brands like Freemotion, NordicTrack, and Sole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does TRUE Fitness make good treadmills?
Yes, TRUE Fitness makes good treadmills that have high-quality builds and long warranties. They do not have as many features as similar and more affordable brands, so there is a bit of a tradeoff between their high quality and the amount of features offered. Some of TRUE’s best features are the orthopedic running belt, welded steel frames, and adjustable cushioning. We were underwhelmed by the motor power, the maximum speed and incline range, maximum user weights, and running surface size offered by many of the treadmills for their high price.
Is TRUE Fitness still in business?
Yes, TRUE is still in business. As of 2020, TRUE also owns Octane Fitness, another commercial fitness equipment brand.
What is the weight limit on the TRUE Fitness treadmill?
TRUE Fitness treadmills for home have a weight limit of 300 to 400 lbs with the most common weight limit being 350 lbs on their Performance series. TRUE’s commercial treadmills have higher weight capacities.
How long do TRUE treadmills last?
A treadmill’s lifespan varies by the use and maintenance performed on it. With a lifetime frame warranty and a motor warranty of over 20 years, we expect TRUE treadmills to last longer than more affordable treadmills, but each user’s experience may vary.
