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Proform 520 Treadmill Review This Proform 520 Treadmill Review unbiased info and opinions on this low priced treadmill. See how this Proform treadmill compares to other treamills. Keep reading for information on the best features, pros and cons, warranties, and key specs of the Proform 520. The Proform 520 treadmill is a compact, fold up model that will help you to reach your fitness goals. As a plus, the 520 is very affordable - about the cost of a few months membership at your local gym. The 520 will make it easier for you to tone your lower body, as well as maintain your cardiovascular health and stamina. With the 520 you can exercise in the comfort of your own home whenever it is most convenient for you. Keep in mind, however, that the Proform 520 is designed for light, occasional use not heavy, daily use. This is the norm for low priced treadmills. One of the best features of the Proform 520 is that it has incline power of 3-10%. This is important as studies have shown that by increasing and varying incline during your workout can result in almost twice the calorie burn. Another great feature is the fold-up design which allows for easy storage and saves space if that is a concern of yours. The 520 also has a great heart rate monitor that will display your heart rate to let you know that you’re working out in your optimal heart rate zone. This information is displayed on an LCD screen on the console that also gives you other important information like your distance traveled, time, speed and the number of calories burned during your workout. The 520 also has a “Safestart” feature that prevents a sudden or uncontrolled start of the treadmill. In spite of all of its great features, the Proform 520 has some important drawbacks to consider. For starters, the 520 has a rather weak motor and speed range of 0-8 miles per hour. This range of speed and feeble motor power will really limit your workouts, which is why the 520 is only recommended for light workouts (i.e. walking). Another reason for this is the small 18” x 50” tread belt size. A tread belt of these dimensions will also limit your workouts as people of most sizes won’t have the room for a full (running) stride. There have also been reports of the belt slipping after a few years of moderate use. This is often a belt tension problem that can usually be fixed, but not always. The Proform 520 comes with the very standard 90 day warranty. Most other comparatively priced machines come with the same 90 day warranty. An extended warranty on the 520 could give you more confidence in your purchase and its reliability, though we don’t recommend spending the extra money. Back on the plus side, another great thing about the 520 is that it is iFit compatible. IFit technology allows you to purchase additional workouts that are programed by certified personal trainers. These workouts are then added to your treadmill where you can use them to add variety to your exercise routine. Some workouts even have audio coaching from the personal trainer. The 520 also has a cushioned deck which will help prevent you from injuring your joints. Overall, the Proform 520 is a decent treadmill at a discount price. The features are adequate and you can certainly get a good workout using this treadmill. You will most likely not, however, be able to get a strenuous workout on multiple days of the week. The 520 was simply not built for that kind of use. Recommended: Yes, unless you are willing to spend more or want a treadmill primarily for running or jogging. Key Specs and Features:
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