Golds Gym Treadmills may conjure up pictures of the famous Gold's Gym - in reality, the brand is a discount line manufactured by ICON Health and Fitness.
ICON is the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world. They also own brands like Reebok, Nordic Track, Freemotion, Epic, Weslo and Proform.
This explains why many Gold Gym treadmills look very similar to Proform or Image treadmills.
Strengths:
Unlike a few years ago when there was essentially only 1 Gold's Gym treadmill you could buy, there are now several ranging from around $400 up to $1500.
So the variety is better. Since they're very similar to Proform models, you can get some of the same 'bells and whistles'.
For example the Crosswalk 570 come with upper body arm bars (similar to those found on elliptical trainers) to work your upper body.
You'll also find iFit card readers (so you can add new workouts to your treadmill), iPod docks and built-in speakers.
Weaknesses:
These treadmills are not nearly as popular or as well known as other ICON brands. They may look very similar to a Proform, however the warranties are not as long - which could end up costing you in the long run.
A further downside is that even as other treadmill brands continue to improve every year, Golds Gym has fallen down a bit. For example you can now get Proform treadmills which are similar in price but that have a lot more bells and whistles, strong motor powers, longer belts and better warranties.
Also keep in mind that the lower end models (under $700) are not recommended for runners or heavier usage. They just aren't built to take a lot of use and hold up well over the long run.
Conclusion: Not Recommended
Gold's Gym treadmills offer more in terms of pricing and treadmill options now than they have in the past. However considering they are very similar to Proform models - many of which offer longer warranty protection and better fitness toys, you may want to consider a Proform instead.
Another option around the same price point is Nordic Track - another brand that offers longer warranties and the latest fitness toys like web browsers, WiFi capability, iPod ports, high inclines and declines, and downloadable workouts.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
If you really like the Gold's Gym name, you can buy the latest models direct from the ICON discount warehouse - which goes under the name of Workout Warehouse. They offer some pretty decent deals starting from $587.
They're also currently offering Free Shipping on all their Gold's Gym treadmills.
