Does The ProForm Power 545i Treadmill Offer The Workout Expected?
The Proform Power 545i Treadmill has the look of many smarter treadmills that are around right now.
There is an emphasis on the console and data by making this area so dominating and full of buttons and data.
There is also the promise of plenty of programmes, as well as a comfortable deck to run in. Does this machine do enough to beat the competition or are there hidden flaws?
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The Pros and Cons of this ProForm Power 545i Treadmill.
Pros:
- The running deck is large and well-cushioned
- There are lots of built-in programmes, so you don’t have to rely on fancy apps
- The iFit subscription is a nice extra for virtual sessions
- The display has multiple feeds in real-time for better information on the session
- You can raise the deck at an angle to decrease the size when in storage
Cons:
- The design of the console isn’t the most ergonomic or user-friendly
- There are limitations on how you can get a pulse reading
- The incline is fine but not as intense as you might expect
The ProForm Power 545i Treadmill has a great running deck and lots of programmes to play around with
This running machine has a full-sized running deck at 51cm by 140cm, wider than the average to provide more stability, and also has the right stride length for running.
The deck also benefits from “advanced” ProShox cushioning to add to the low-impact feel of the workout and reduce the risk of injuries.
There is then the option to increase the incline up to 10%. This is a little lower than average, but should still prove helpful. There is also a space-saving design where you can raise to the deck at an angle to make it a little easier to put away.
Again, other brands will go further with this in terms of the folded dimensions. But, it is better than an over-sized machine that doesn’t fold at all.
From there, you can enjoy real-time data on the console so you can see your progress without having to playing around with the buttons.
There is also a multi-window view means various stats at once. Glance at it and adapt as needed without distracting yourself too much.
Alongside the basics like the distance travelled and time elapsed, there is a pace reading, which should help those training for big events. You can also keep track of calories burned and your pulse.
If you want to go even further, the ProForm treadmill is compatible with iFit for virtual training and competition with other users. Also has a fun mode with custom routes on Google Maps.
There are 31 programmes without this subscription, 20 of which are pre-set. This can allow for custom weight loss and other modes without so much reliance on the apps and wireless connections.
There are some little details that inhibit the user-friendly aspect of this ProForm Power 545i
The promise of “large, clear, easy-to-read physical buttons”. This might not be ideal for everyone. Physical buttons aren’t always as reliable, or as attractive, as a touchscreen option. Also, the term “large” depends on your opinion.
They don’t look especially big. The quick controls could help for pre-setting options, but those are that large either and aren’t as conveniently placed as other machines.
Here the focus is mostly on placing everything around the console rather than creating a more ergonomic design with controls on the frame.
On that note, there aren’t the usual pulse sensors in the handrest on the side. Instead, the system uses a Bluetooth Smart wireless receiver to collect data from a chest strap. The phrase “any compatible” chest strap is a warning to buy one separately.
How do these issues with the design and ergonomics affect a final recommendation for this ProForm Bluetooth Enabled Treadmill?
This is one of those machines that isn’t as perfect as it first appears when you get into the finer details of the design. There are choices and omissions that do let it down a little. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t benefit from a great workout.
There is a lot to enjoy here with the different programmes and the data stream and you may find that you get along just fine with the layout and buttons on the console. With the right user, the ProForm treadmill still has the potential to help with long-term training goals.
Find more reviews about the ProForm Power 545i Treadmill on Sweat Band here.
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