Trupace is a fairly new discount brand of treadmill to the North American market - although TruPace products have been distributed in Europe for over 15 years.
Trupace recently partnered with 1800 Treadmill to distribute these affordable treadmills to North American buyers.
Starting around $499 and up, these are not your typical cheap, flimsy, department-store treadmills. They actually have much more substance to them than you'd expect.
This is probably because they are being sold direct-to-consumer, without the store markup. So you're getting them at cost basically (with Free Shipping too).
How do they stack up against heavyweights like Proform or Nordic Track? Here's a review of the strengths and weaknesses of Trupace treadmills:
Strengths:
1) Folding
All Trupace models have soft-drop folding mechanisms. This means you not only can fold them up and out of the way to save space.
But the soft-drop mechanism makes it easy to fold and unfold the treadmill without the strain on your back. The treadmill practically unfolds itself.
There's also transport wheels on the bottom of the treadmill so you can easily fold it up and move it out of the way.
2) TruRide Cushioning
This is a special cushioning system that Trupace uses on their treadmills. It helps protects your joints and ligaments from impact.
Although it's not the most advanced cushioning system out there, it will still give you some protection - and it's much more comfortable than some of the cheaper department store treadmills we've tried.
4) Speed & Incline Controls on the Side Handrails
All Trupace models have incline and speed controls on the side handrails in addition to the front console.
This can be useful as you can change your incline or speed without reaching up to the console, which can sometimes throw off your stride. This is a feature you usually find in higher end brands like Smooth.
5) Heart Rate Monitors
Stay in your target fat-burning range with the hand grip heart rate monitors on these treadmills. Although it's a fairly standard feature these days, it's still to have.
6) iPod/MP3 Port with Speakers
The higher end models (M120 and M150) have iPod/MP3 docks with speakers. So you can listen to your favorite tunes or the latest John Grisham audiobook while you walk.
7) 30 Day Trial
You can try out your Trupace treadmill from 1800 Treadmill for 30 days. And if you're not completely satisfied, you can return it, no questions asked.
Weaknesses:
The M100 has a very small walking area (16" x 50") so it's not recommended for taller users.
Plus, while the consoles are actually quite impressive at this price point, you don't get some of the entertainment extras that other brands like Proform or Nordic Track give you (iFit LIVE, extra workout programs, Nike + iPod syncing). Then again, with prices this low, it may not matter to you.
Conclusion:
Trupace is a starter treadmill brand. It's not going to give you the feel or luxury touches of a health club brand. Still, considering what you get at this price point, it's made a pretty good start. The construction is much better than you'd find with several other brands. Motor powers are decent and consoles are attractive and easy-to-read.
If you're looking for a decent discount brand you may want to consider Trupace. They are offering a 30 day trial and Free Shipping.
Where to Buy At A Discount:
You can buy Trupace treadmills direct online here. They're also currently offering Free Shipping which will save you about $150.
