And it's getting lots of attention, mainly due to the "Best Buy" rating from a leading consumer products magazine.
In addition to a strong motor and sturdy feel, you also get some bonus features on the T202 including the Nike + iPod technology which lets you track your workout stats over time and the iPod dock with speakers to play your favorite tunes.
Is the T202 treadmill a good value for you? Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $799 (+ Free Shipping)
Motor: 2.5 HP
Speed: 0.5 - 12 MPH
Incline: 0 - 12%
Treadbelt: 20 x 55"
Folding: Yes
Hand Grip Heart Rate Control
Built In Console Fan
User Weight Capacity: 325 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, Lifetime on Motor, 1 year on parts and labor
Strengths:
1) iPod/mp3 dock with Built-In Speakers
While this is becoming a fairly standard feature, it's still handy to have and can make your workouts a lot more enjoyable. You can plug in and play your iPod or Mp3 through speakers built into the console.
2) Strong 2.5 HP Motor
The Horizon Fitness T202 treadmill comes with a decent 2.5 HP motor which is pretty good at this price point. It can easily power the spacious 20 x 55" belt and it's covered by a lifetime warranty, which gives you great protection on your investment.
3) Track Your Stats with Nike and Your IPod
The T202 treadmill comes with Nike + iPod technology. Basically you can plug your iPod nano, iPod touch or iPhone 3GS into the treadmill and do your workout.
The iPod saves your workout stats like pace, distance, time and calories burned. Then you just plug it into your computer, go online and iTunes will automatically sync your workout to the Nike website.
This is a fun, effective way to track your workout progress over time. It also helps you reach your fitness goals faster.
4) One Touch Power Incline Buttons
The Horizon T202 treadmill comes with up to 12% incline (higher than lower end Horizon models which only give you 10%). You can change your incline with the touch of a button (instead of scrolling through all of your options), which is a convenient thing to have.
5) 12 Built-In Workouts
You get 3 program options which each target time, distance and calories burned goals. There are also 4 built-in workouts like manual, intervals, hills and weight loss. There is also a 1-31 day goal training for more long term fitness goals.
6) Great Reviews - The T202 earned a "Best Buy" award from a leading consumer magazine, rating especially high in the areas of reliability, safety, construction, and overall operation.
User reviews have also been very positive with the most popular features being quiet operation, sturdy feel and overall value for the money.
Weaknesses:
The Horizon T202 treadmill packs a lot of value into a small price. However this is still a starter treadmill. It won't give you the commercial grade feel or stability of a higher end make like a Sole for example.
Also, we found that the console on this treadmill was a bit underwhelming. You get larger, brighter, easier-to-read consoles with other brands like Proform and Nordic Track.
Overall Conclusion: Good Value
The Horizon T202 is a well-priced starter treadmill that offers a stable feel, strong motor and decent sized walking area.
You also get some other tools to help make your workouts more enjoyable like the iPod dock, cooling fan, built-in workouts and Nike + iPod syncing technology.
Although it's still probably not best for runners or heavier use, overall it gives you good value at this price point.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Horizon T202 treadmill online direct from the Manufacturer. You can usually get them to offer Free Shipping to your home which can save you about $150.
