The Proform 850 T Treadmill is touted by the manufacturer as having superior technology, durable construction and innovative cushioning. This treadmill is the middle of the road in their Tech Series and is sometimes on sale for $799 on the Pro-Form website.
Some of the features of the 850 T, not included on the other two Tech Series treadmills make it a viable option for its price. This unit is the only one of the three that is iFit Live compatible, a wireless interactive experience designed to give you result-specific workouts. Listen to Jillian Michaels (the toughest trainer in the U.S.) coach you through your workout. Choose from performance, weight-loss, or wellness goals then have them wirelessly downloaded every day to your console.
The Google Maps application is a pretty cool feature allowing you to run/walk/jog your favorite scenic routes from around the world, or even train for a specific marathon. The treadmill will automatically simulate the terrain and adjust the incline to correspond with the real route. The module is sold separately for $129.99, but I think it is an option worth seriously considering.
Their ProShox Lite compresses with each step giving an even stride and less shock to your joints; the heart rate monitor is built into the handlebars; the 6 inch backlit display shows your time, speed, calories burned, and distance. Certified personal trainer-designed, the calorie app has 8 workouts for burning 200-700 calories, or use the timed app for 20-60 minute workouts. The distance app gives you from 1 mile to 5k marathon to help you train for the real thing. An iPod/MP3 music port and 2.0 Intermix Acoustics sound built-in is just one more plus.
The deck of this treadmill has an incredible weight capacity of 325 lbs. The 2.5 CHP commercial-grade motor is not bad, but if power is your number one consideration then for $50 more the 1050 T comes in at 3.0 CHP and the ProForm Power 995 at 3.5 for a chilly $1,999. Another cool little feature that is found on the 850 T is a built-in fan on the console, like your car's AC. This model also features a fully automated 0-12% incline and one touch of a button can take you from 0-12 MPH without tedious scrolling through options. The 20" x 55" tread belt is 5" shorter than the 1050 T, but what is 5" when you add up all of the other forward-thinking attributes?
Pro-Form, as well as HealthRider, NordicTrack, Image, Epic, Reebok, et al, is owned by Icon Health and Fitness. Pro-Form seems to control the treadmill market by producing affordable options for home workouts. With innovative features like iFit, CoolAire, and increased weight capacity, it's not surprising that they are attempting to produce sturdier treadmills with features that will appeal to a broad range of customers. Given the stats the Proform 850 T Treadmill is a a winner.