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2024 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships Results

The 2024 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships lived up to the hype. This “champion of champions” meet was held in Sheffield, UK, on Feb. 10, 2024, and they put on quite the show.

The standard of lifting was incredible across the board. Of the 12 women contestants, 11 broke the world record in their respective weight class. Many historic records fell, and there were tight battles throughout, vying for the top prize of £25,000 (~31,500).

The competition format was heavily focussed on International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) world records. The overall top prize went to the athlete who broke the total world record in their class by the highest proportion. Additionally, £5,000 (~$6,300) bonuses were offered for every world record broken in the squatbench pressdeadlift, or total.

Image via @ja.gata_sitko on Instagram

[Related: Taylor Atwood’s “World Champion Mindset” When Lifting Heavy In Training]

2024 Sheffield Women’s Results

On the women’s side, the format heavily favored the three lifters in the 69-kilogram class, as the world record total was lower in this class than in the weight class below. This gave them an easier target to hit; indeed, all three made the podium.

Agata Sitko (69KG) — 600 Kilograms, 109.3%

Prescillia Bavoil (69KG) — 585 Kilograms, 106.6%

Carola Garra (69KG) — 582.5 Kilograms, 106.1%

Evie Corrigan (52KG) — 481 Kilograms, 103.2%

Brittany Schlater (+84KG) — 710 Kilograms, 102.4%

Sonita Kyen Muluh (+84KG) — 708 Kilograms, 102.1%

Karlina Tongotea (76KG) — 610.5 Kilograms, 101.8%

Jade Jacob (57KG) — 519.5 Kilograms, 101.4%

Natalie Richards (57KG) — 516.5 Kilograms, 100.8%

Tiffany Chapon (47KG) — 431.5 Kilograms, 100.7%

Amanda Lawrence (84KG) — 647 Kilograms, 100.3%

Noemie Allabert (52KG) — 447.5 Kilograms, 97.3%

[Related: The Best Powerlifting Workouts for Beginners to Break Into the Sport]

Image via @gustav.hedlund on Instagram

[Related: How to (Properly) Combine Powerlifting and Bodybuilding Training]

2024 Sheffield Men’s Results

Fewer athletes hit total world records on the men’s side, but there were some impressive battles nonetheless. Not least of these was in the 93-kilogram class, where four athletes duked it out for supremacy, with Gustav Hedlund emerging victorious, just ahead of world champion Jonathan Cayco.

Gustav Hedlund (93KG) — 895 Kilograms, 100.8% 

Jonathan Cayco (93KG) — 890.5 Kilograms, 100.6%

Delaney Wallace (83KG) — 842.5 Kilograms, 100.2%

Gavin Adin (93KG) — 887 Kilograms, 99.9%

Panagiotis Tarinidis (66KG) — 702.5 Kilograms, 98.9%

Timothy Monigatti (74KG) — 789.5 Kilograms, 98.7%

Carlos Petterson-Grifith (93KG) — 875 Kilograms, 98.5%

Anatolii Novopismennyi (105KG) — 925.5 Kilograms, 98.5%

Carl Johansson (74KG) — 785.5 Kilograms, 98.2%

Kyota Ushiyama (66KG) — 690 Kilograms, 97.1%

Jesus Olivares (+120KG) —1,152.5 Kilograms, 96.6%

Tony Cliffe (120KG) — 925 Kilograms, 94.5% 

Prize Payouts

Given the unconventional format of this contest, it’s no surprise that the prize money distribution is similarly unusual. Generally, the higher you place in a competition, the more money you win. But with the added wrinkle of bonuses paid for world records broken, the normal distribution is disrupted and, in some cases, athletes lower down the rankings earned more in prize money than the athletes on the podium!

Take a look at the tables below, showing the athletes ranked by payout. All sums are in UK Pounds:

Women

Agata Sitko: 40,000

Prescillia Bavoil: 17,500

Jade Jacob: 16,500

Evie Corrigan: 16,000

Tiffany Chapon: 16,000

Karlina Tongotea: 11,750

Amanda Lawrence: 10,000

Brittany Schlater: 9,000

Carola Garra: 7,500

Sonita Muluh: 7,000

Natalie Richards: 1,250

Noémie Allabert: 0

Men

Gustav Hedlund: 30,000

Jonathan Cayco: 17,500

Delaney Wallace: 12,500

Tim Monigatti: 12,000

Gavin Adin: 11,000

Anatolii Novopismennyi: 6,500

Jesus Olivares: 5,000

Panagiotis Tarinidis: 4,000

Carlos PettersonGrifith: 1,750

Carl Johansson: 1,250

Kyota Ushiyama: 1,000

Tony Cliffe: 0

The total payout was a massive £255,000. £152,500 of it was awarded to female athletes.

The second edition of Sheffield was a roaring success with phenomenal production values and even better athlete performances. Tickets for the 2025 event are already selling fast, so act quickly to see the action in person.

Featured image: @ja.gata_sitko and @gustav.hedlund on Instagram

The post 2024 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships Results appeared first on BarBend.

The 6 Best Treadmills Under $1,500 for 2024

The amount of available treadmills out there can seem as endless as the marathon you signed up for on January 1. We know the overwhelming feeling of trying to sift through the detritus in search of the best treadmills on the market. As such, the cardio enthusiasts at BarBend sought to compile a list of the best treadmills under $1,500 to help narrow your search and show you that, even with a hard cap on your budget, you don’t need to sacrifice on the features that are most important to you.

Treadmills that bump up against $1,500 are somewhere between “mid-range” and “budget” options, but it’s important to remember that even the most wallet-friendly options can help improve your cardiorespiratory, cardiovascular, and mental health. (1) Whether you need dynamic programming with virtual coaches to pump you up, or just a moving rubber belt you walk on while you suffer through a Zoom meeting, check out our picks for the best treadmills under $1,500 below. 

The Best Treadmills Under $1,500

Best Overall Treadmill Under $1,500: NordicTrack EXP 7i

Best Treadmill Under $1,500 for Running: Sole F63

Best Treadmill Under $1,500 for Walking: Horizon 7.0 AT

Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,500: ProForm Carbon TLX

Best Budget Treadmill Under $1,500: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

Best Compact Treadmill Under $1,500: WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill

How We Tested and Chose the Best Treadmills Under $1,500

The BarBend team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit professionals, and nutrition coaches has put over 40 treadmills to the test over the years. Following our testing methodology, our testers rated over 13 categories — including footprint and portability, adjustability and ergonomics, and durability, among others — on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

These ratings and our team’s hands-on experience helped us choose the treadmills on this list. If your budget is set at $1,500, you are looking somewhere between “mid-range” and “budget” treadmills, but that doesn’t mean you need to compromise on important features like incline, dynamic programming, or the amount of space it will occupy. These are a few of the factors that went into our top picks.

Essentials

When compiling our picks, we made sure to include treadmills for running and walking that feature the essentials one looks for in an efficient cardio machine. For a running treadmill, that meant max speeds of 10 to 12 miles per hour, incline ranges between 10 and 15 percent, cushioned decks, motors with at least 3.0 horsepower, and preset programming or integration with fitness apps

For those interested in walking, we emphasized treadmills with steep incline ranges, as they can provide variety and challenge and better replicate the terrain you’d find on an outdoor hike. We also included some under-desk options with max speeds of between 3 and 4 miles per hour, which are more suited for getting your steps in than sweating up a storm. 

Dynamic Programming

Integration with apps like iFIT or Peloton can open up your training options on and off your treadmill. While these options usually require a monthly subscription (typically between $20 and $50), they can be worth it for the guided instruction, structured programs, and interactive community features.

An iFIT workout on the 7-inch display of the NordicTrack EXP 7i.

Speaking about iFIT, one of the most popular fitness apps, certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto, says, “iFIT has some of the best interactive programming out there and really helps prevent boredom.” You can usually access these kinds of apps on built-in touchscreens or a compatible mobile device, and we included several with this kind of integration on this list. Following the cardio workouts provided by this kind of programming can bring some excitement to your training.

Footprint

A factor that should guide any treadmill purchase is how much space it will take up in your home gym. We kept this in mind when putting our list together, including a range of full-size, folding, and low-profile treadmills that can help you make the most of your space. Whether you’re living in close quarters or have more room than you know what to do with, we’ve got picks that should suit your needs. 

Best Overall Treadmill Under $1,500: NordicTrack EXP 7i 

NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill

NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill

This tread still goes all the way up to 12 percent incline and 12mph in speed, plus it comes with a free one-month iFit membership (a $39 value). The adjustable cushioning can also help lower the impact on your joints, or mimic the feel of a road race if you are training for something on rougher terrain. 

Shop NordicTrack

Specs

Price: $1,299

Incline Range: 0%-12%

Max Speed: 10mph

Weight Capacity: 300lbs

Dimensions: 59.7” H x 70.8” L x 34.9” W

Weight: 228lbs

Pros

The 12-percent incline and max speed of 10 miles per hour allow for plenty of variety. 

Its tilting, 7-inch HD touchscreen can stream interactive iFIT workouts.

NordicTrack’s EasyLift assist hydraulic folding carries most of the burden when folding upright. 

Cons

55 inches is at the low end of the average running belt range of 55 to 60 inches.

Since it lacks other preset workout programs, a $39.99 monthly iFIT subscription may be necessary to maximize its potential.

The 1.9-inch rollers are smaller than the 2.25- to 2.5-inch rollers we recommend for heavy use.

Our choice for best overall treadmill under $1,500 is also the most compact treadmill from NordicTrack — the EXP 7i. For $1,299, you’ll get much of what most the best NordicTrack treadmills have to offer — iFIT integration with SmartAdjust, a standard 12-percent incline, a 2.6 CHP motor, and a max speed of 10 miles per hour. This is one of our best-reviewed treadmills, with our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer, rating it a 4 or 4.5 out of 5 in categories such as durability, customizations, adjustability, ergonomics, and more. 

The EXP 7i’s iFIT integration also earned it a 5 out of 5 for its dynamic programming. With iFIT, you’ll have access to over 16,000 live and on-demand classes. Even though a subscription will run you $39.99 per month after your 30-day free trial, we think it unlocks the full potential in the EXP 7i, specifically in how it works in tandem with the machine to make automatic adjustments in tune with the app’s classes and scenic rides. 

Our BarBend product tester walking on the NordicTrack EXP 7i.

The compact nature of the build only allows for a 55-inch belt deck, which is 5 inches less than our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer, recommends. “You’ll want a running deck at least 60 inches in length to accommodate the length of a typical running stride,” she explains. “Shorter individuals may be able to get away with a shorter deck.” As such, sprinters and taller runners may want to opt for an option with a 60-inch deck. 

While the shorter running surface is certainly a trade off, it contributes to its small footprint — 17.16 square feet. That’s more than 3 square feet smaller than the NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill. It can be folded when not in use to help reduce its footprint that much more. “[The] hydraulic lift system is going to take care of everything for you,” BarBend’s expert product tester Jake Herod highlighted in his video review of the EXP 7i below.

Dedicated runners may be wary of the 1.9-inch-diameter rollers, which come in 0.35 inches smaller than what we’d like to see on running treadmills. If you plan to rack up a lot of miles, larger rollers can translate into a longer lifespan for your treadmill.

Read our full NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill Under $1,500 for Running: Sole F63

Sole F63 Treadmill

Sole F63 Treadmill

The Sole F63 is a high-quality, no-frills treadmill. The 3.0 HP motor can support up to 325 pounds, and the foldability is ideal for those tight on space. 

Shop SOLE

Specs

Price: $1,199

Incline Range: 0%-15%

Max Speed: 12mph

Weight Capacity: 325lbs

Dimensions: 67″ H x 77″ L x 35″ W

Weight: 224lbs

Pros

Runners will like the spacious 20-inch by 60-inch running surface.

The cushioning layered into the belt deck may help lessen the impact on your joints. 

You can access more than 1,400 free treadmill workouts via the Sole+ app.

The 15-percent maximum incline surpasses the average range by 3 percent.

Cons

With no screen, you’ll need to stream Sole+ or other fitness apps on your own device.

There is no decline capability, which may be disappointing for some runners.

When it comes to the best treadmills for running, you want to look for a 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck to accommodate longer strides, some belt deck cushioning, and incline capability to bring some added intensity and variety to your runs. Enter the Sole F63, our pick for the best treadmill under $1,500 for running. 

The 15-percent incline range actually exceeds the 12-percent range found on many treadmills in this price range — like the NordicTrack EXP 7i. Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer, emphasized incline capability when assessing running treadmills for BarBend. “If you’re using your treadmill to train for a race (as opposed to just keeping fit), incline is a necessary feature.”

Our tester doing an incline workout on the Sole F63.

An aspect Kate Meier — certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial staffer — highlighted was the importance of the size of the running deck. After completing multiple running workouts Meier rated the F63’s adjustability and ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5. “All our testers — up to 6-feet tall — felt the deck allowed plenty of space for comfort.”

Anyone recovering from an injury or interested in long-distance training will appreciate the cushioned deck and two-ply belt — an upgrade over the one-ply belts common in less expensive machines. Capritto also noted the importance of reducing impact on the user’s joints. “A padded deck can help offset some of the impact on your ankles, knees, and hips by absorbing a lot of the shock.”

The console and LCD display on the Sole F63

While the F63 offers a backlit 6.5-inch LCD screen to help you keep an eye on your heart rate, distance, and calories burned, there is no interactive touchscreen. However, you can use your phone or tablet to take advantage of the 1,400 free — yes, free — treadmill workouts on the Sole+ app. 

Meier rated its tech capabilities 4.3 out of 5, noting the Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. When connected to the treadmill, Sole+ can track your stats and workout history over time, as well as play audio through the speakers.

Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill Under $1,500 for Walking: Horizon 7.0 AT

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a durable, low-cost option for anyone looking for a quality treadmill without overspending. It features a strong motor, a wide range of speed and incline settings, and a unique three-zone cushion system. 

Shop Horizon

Specs

Price: $1,477

Incline Range: 0%-15%

Max Speed: 12mph

Weight Capacity: 325lbs

Dimensions: 66″ H x 76″ L x 35″ W

Weight: 277lbs

Pros

The 15-percent maximum incline can add variety and intensity to your walking workouts.

Its 60-inch-long belt deck can support taller users with long strides.

The 325-pound user weight capacity is 25 pounds higher than many treadmills at this price range.

Cons

Without a touchscreen, you’ll need to use your own device to stream workouts or entertainment.

Only certain apps, like Zwift and Peloton, connect directly via Bluetooth. (2)

The Horizon 7.0 AT is our pick for the best treadmill under $1,500 for walking because of its spacious 60-inch belt deck and above-average 15-percent incline, which allow for comfort and challenge during walking workouts. Should you want to run, it can reach speeds of 12 miles per hour. Heavier users will also like its 325-pound weight capacity, which is 25 pounds heavier than most machines at this price range. The 7.0 AT’s adjustability and ergonomics earned a 4 out of 5 from our tester, a certified CrossFit Level-1 trainer. 

When assessing the best walking treadmills for BarBend, certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto unpacked what she likes to see in a high-quality treadmill for walking. “A good walking treadmill has speeds up to at least 4 miles per hour (that represents a brisk walk of 15 minutes per mile), but ideally up to 6 to 9 miles per hour for individuals who are very fast walkers or want to sometimes jog,” she explained. “You’ll also want a deck with minimum dimensions of 16 inches wide by 48 inches long (preferable is 18-20 inches wide by 55-60 inches long).” 

Our product tester holding the handles on the Horizon 7.0 AT during a walking workout.

The 20-inch by 60-inch walking surface on the Horizon 7.0 AT surpasses Capritto’s preferred dimensions, and it contributed to our tester’s rating of 4.5 out of 5 for their workout experience. “I docked a half point because I thought the belt was a little thin,” they pointed out. “Otherwise, I loved the deck and there was zero wobble or shake.” 

While you can slot your own device in the tablet holder and stream whatever you like, there is no touchscreen, which contributed to their 3-out-of-5 rating. Our tester was also disappointed that, when connected via Bluetooth, different apps had different capabilities. “It seemed like some apps could play audio, but others could only track your stats, like steps and calories,” they said. If you have a favorite workout app you want to use, take a look at Horizon’s chart for app compatibility. (2)   

Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.

Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,500: ProForm Carbon TLX

ProForm Carbon TLX

ProForm Carbon TLX

Adjusts up to a 12% grade so that you can feel like you’re hitting real hills. With an iFIT subscription you can hit trails around the world from the comfort of your own home.

Shop ProForm

Specs

Price: $999

Incline Range: 0%-12%

Max Speed: 10mph

Weight Capacity: 300lbs

Dimensions: 59.1” H x 74.3” L x 35.1” W

Weight: 249lbs

Pros

ProForm’s SpaceSaver hydraulic folding allows for easy upright folding.

Its iFIT integration gives you access to over 16,000 live and on-demand classes.

The 20-inch by 60-inch provides ample space for sprinters, runners, and joggers.

Cons

For those tracking their heart rate, it has no pulse sensors.

After the 30-day free trial, an iFIT subscription is $39.99 per month.

We chose the Carbon TLX as the best folding treadmill under $1,500 because ProForm’s SpaceSaver upright hydraulic folding system reduces its footprint from 18.11 square feet down to 8.6 square feet — about the difference between a two-seater sofa and a medium-sized ottoman. (3) With its heavy-duty steel frame and 249-pound overall weight, we appreciated the assist from the hydraulics.

When assessing folding treadmills for BarBend, Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, spelled out who can benefit from this type of machine. “Folding treadmills are a good option for people who need to keep their space multifunctional,” she explained. “Treadmills are large pieces of machinery, and in smaller homes, it’s not always feasible to leave a huge piece of equipment lying around.”

The Carbon TLX is no slouch when it comes to programming, as it’s one of the least expensive treadmills offering iFIT integration. While you’ll need to access the fitness app’s classes via your compatible mobile device, iFIT can still work with the TLX to make automatic adjustments to the machine’s speed and incline during classes, leaving you to focus simply on your sweat.

With over 16,000 classes on offer, including off-machine workouts like strength training and yoga, we think the app’s $39.99 monthly subscription is justified. Our tester, a certified CrossFit trainer, gave it a full 5 out of 5. “I think iFIT is a solid competitor with Peloton now,” they said. “I’d recommend it over just about any other interactive programming.”

For all the tech packed into this $999 machine, it does lack heart rate sensors. This is perhaps a casualty of the more compact design, but there are loads of compatible Bluetooth heart rate monitors you can connect.

Best Budget Treadmill Under $1,500: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

GoPlus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

GoPlus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

With a powerful and quiet 2.25HP motor, this treadmill allows you to walk or jog when used as an under-desk machine, or run at up to 7.5 MPH when the handrails are raised.

Shop Amazon

Specs

Price: $299

Incline Range: N/A

Max Speed: 7.5mph

Weight Capacity: 265lbs

Dimensions: 44.5″ H x 52.5″ L x 29″ W

Weight: 69lbs

Pros

At just $299, it’s between $50 to $500 less expensive than many comparable treadmills.

With a 7.5-mile-per-hour max speed, it can accommodate jogging and walking workouts.

Flip the handlebar up to use it like a traditional treadmill and fold it down for under-desk use. 

Cons

Outside of the Bluetooth speaker and phone holder in the handrail, it lacks tech capabilities.

Its 39.3-inch by 16-inch belt deck wasn’t designed with runners in mind.

The Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill is our pick for the best budget treadmill under $1,500, as it costs roughly $50 to $500 cheaper than similar treadmills. With its 39.9-inch deck and max speed of 7.5 miles per hour, it’s more suited for walking and light jogging than running, but we love this budget treadmill for its adjustability.  

As its name implies, the Goplus 2-in-1 is a hybrid machine, as its foldable handlebar allows it to be used as both a traditional treadmill and an under-desk machine. Our tester primarily uses theirs with the handlebar folded down, which gives it a total height of just 5 inches, making it ideal for use under standing desks. “I think it’s just a basic home treadmill that does exactly what it’s meant to,” they said, rating their workout experience 4 out of 5. “I use it every day under my desk and never give it a second thought.”

Our BarBend product tester walking on the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill.

When assessing the best budget treadmills for BarBend, personal trainer Amanda Capritto explained who would most benefit from machines in this price range. “Budget-friendly treadmills specifically provide access to exercise for individuals with a lower income who know they are ready to commit to exercise, and individuals at any income level to test the waters in this exercise category without spending thousands of dollars on a machine they may end up not using,” she said.

A Bluetooth speaker, remote control, and phone holder — too small to be called a device holder — are the only tech capabilities of note, which prompted a rating of 3 out of 5 from our tester. “I do use the remote control to adjust the speed,” they explained. “It also has a Bluetooth speaker, but it’s not really high enough quality to use.” 

Best Compact Treadmill Under $1,500: WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill

Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill

Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill

The Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill is a compact, foldable treadmill that can be stored under a bed or couch. It features a 47.24-inch deck, 3.75 mile-per-hour max speed, and its unique Foot Speed Control mode lets you adjust your speed by walking on different areas of the deck.

Shop WalkingPad

Specs

Price: $499

Incline Range: N/A

Max Speed: 3.75mph

Weight Capacity: 220lbs

Dimensions: 5” H x 56.37” L x 21.5” W

Weight: 62lbs

Pros

Its compact design allows it to be folded in half for easy storage under a bed or sofa.

In Foot Speed Control mode, you can adjust the speed simply by walking on different zones of the 47.24-inch belt deck.

Despite weighing just 62 pounds itself, it can support users up to 220 pounds.

Cons

Outside of a remote control for speed adjustment, its simple design does not allow for much tech.

The design doesn’t allow for incline or decline.

There are no conveniences like cooling fans or bottle holders.

From its unique foldable design and 5-inch step-up height to the 62-pound overall weight, everything about the WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill — our pick for the best compact treadmill under $1,500 — screams compact. This is the only treadmill we’ve used that folds literally in half, which takes its unfolded footprint from 8.42 square feet down to just 4.78 square feet — roughly the size of a small ottoman. (3)

Another unique feature our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, loves about her WalkingPad P1 is the Foot Speed Control. “You can use the remote to adjust speed, but I used the Foot Speed Control mode,” they explained. “You speed up by walking closer to the front, hang out in the middle to keep it constant, or walk towards the back to slow down.” The customizations earned a rating of 3.5 out of 5, as it doesn’t have an adjustable incline.

The WalkingPad P1, our product tester’s home treadmill, under their desk.

The WalkingPad P1 is designed specifically for walking workouts. “A good walking treadmill has speeds up to at least 4 miles per hour (that represents a brisk walk of 15 minutes per mile),” says certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto. She also prefers “a deck with minimum dimensions of 16 inches wide by 48 inches long.” 

While the WalkingPad P1’s 47.24-inch belt deck and 3.75-mile-per-hour max speed fall slightly short of those standards, we still think its a great deal at $499. Our tester rated its value a 3.75 out of 5. “I’ve walked on this treadmill daily for a year and a half and I am pleasantly surprised it has held up so well.”

What to Consider Before Buying a Treadmill Under $1,500

Before committing to your dream treadmill, consider setting your budget, deciding how you plan to use it, and where exactly you’re going to put it. Treadmills in this price range are somewhere between “budget” and “mid-range” machines. Some have comparable features to even the best high-end treadmills, like 12-percent incline and app integration. Before making your decision, consider these factors.

Budget

While you know your budget will not exceed $1,500, you’ll still want to decide exactly how much you can afford to spend on your treadmill. Affordable treadmills, after all, can cost as little as $299. The machines closer to $1,500 are better suited for running and will have features like touchscreen displays, app integration, and sturdier builds that take up more floor space. The options under $1,000, meanwhile, tend to be more compact or may only be suited for walking and light jogging. 

Intended Use

 With so many treadmill options out there, it’s important to establish if you plan to use your treadmill for running, walking, interactive workouts, or as an expensive coat rack. 

[Related: 9 Best Treadmills on Amazon (2024)]

On our list, we tried to provide a sampling of treadmills designed for a variety of different needs — running, walking, folding, compact, etc. Once you figure out how much you can spend, take a minute to consider what kind of training you see yourself doing. 

Available Space

Even budget or mid-range treadmills like the options on our list can take up anywhere from 8.42 square feet to 18.72 square feet, with the latter being about 2 square feet larger than a two-seater sofa. (3) We made sure to share the dimensions of each pick because we know what it’s like to navigate hallways and stairs with a treadmill — not fun.

Our tester folding the handlebar on the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill.

Once you decide on the location of your machine, check to see if it folds upright or flat, and if it has a hydraulic folding system to help you out. Many companies design a version of assisted folding — like Horizon’s FeatherLight or ProForm’s EasyAssist. Smaller machines at the lower end of the price range can save you even more space, as there are compact walking treadmills with folding handlebars — perfect for under-desk integration — and units like the WalkingPad P1 that can fold completely in half. 

Different Types of Treadmills Under $1,500

It’s important to be aware of the different types of treadmills in this price range before choosing one that matches your needs. If you’re short on space, maybe you need a compact machine with a small footprint. You may want smart features to satisfy your techie soul. Or you could have signed up for a half-marathon and need to rack up some miles. Here are a few options under $1,500.

Connected

More and more treadmills are starting to integrate Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities as these technologies become more accessible. Fitness apps like iFIT or Peloton are also growing in scope and popularity, so demand for integration in rowing machines, treadmills, and ellipticals is rising. Several treadmills under $1,500 feature HD touchscreens to stream workouts or content from apps like Disney+ and Netflix. Whether you want to take your mind off your sweat, or want to follow a hyped-up studio session, there are options under $1,500 to make it happen.

Running

While you may not find monstrous incline ranges like on some of the best commercial treadmills — 40 percent! — there are options in this price range that meet the needs of serious runners. Certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto laid out what to look for in a running treadmill when assessing these machines for BarBend. 

Our BarBend tester starting a run on the Sole F63.

“Treadmills built with running in mind, specifically, are designed to support high-volume use at high speeds,” she explained. “They support interval running, incline and decline running, and long strides.” Our list includes treadmills capable of hitting 12-percent inclines and top speeds of 12 miles per hour — both solid ranges for runners. If you’re trying to lessen the impact on your joints, you’ll also want to consider a treadmill with a cushioned deck — preferably one between 55 and 60 inches in length. 

Compact

If you need to save some floor space — or have kids and pets running around your house — a compact treadmill may be the way to go. Lots of options in this price range have the capability to fold upright, completely flat, or even in half. You may not need to tuck your treadmill under a couch or bed — we have you covered if you do — but being able to cut the footprint of your treadmill in half simply by lifting the deck is a major benefit.

Benefits of Treadmills Under $1,500

The general benefits of treadmill training apply to machines in this price range, just like more expensive options. For treadmills under $1,500, there can be tremendous value, creative ways to save space, and the technology features that are quickly becoming standard across the best ellipticals, rowing machines, and treadmills.

Health Benefits

Exercising on a treadmill is an easy way to reap the health benefits of aerobic exercise, like improved cardiovascular function, reduced risk of heart disease, and even reduction in stress and anxiety. (1)(4) You don’t even have to run — walking and light jogging have also been shown to aid in weight loss, improve cholesterol profile, and slow the process of osteoporosis. (5)  

Technology

Treadmills in this price range usually include common technology features, like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, speakers, and pulse sensors to track heart rate.  Some options approaching $1,500 have integrated fitness apps like iFIT or Sole+, but instead of grand displays, they’ll have more modest 7-inch or 10-inch touchscreen displays. 

[Related: The 8 Best Treadmills with Screens of 2024]

While you won’t mistake any of these treadmills for high-end commercial machines, you don’t need to sacrifice much by way of technology.

Foldability

Many treadmills around this price point could be considered “compact” or “foldable.” While some fold upright, others fold flat — or even in half. Having the option to fold your treadmill can reduce its footprint — the amount of floor space it occupies — by around half compared to when it’s unfolded. We worked to include at least one option that folds upright, flat, or in half to meet the suit users with specific space restrictions.

Final Word

While $1,500 can score you somewhere between a “budget” and “mid-range” machine, there are plenty of options that can still make you feel like you’re in the VIP treadmill lounge. Some treadmills in this range have the same high-tech features you’ll see in expensive machines, like app integration and HD touchscreens. Even some squarely “budget” options that fold flat or completely in half still support walking and jogging workouts.

After you set your budget, identify some features that are important to you. Whether you need extra cushioning because of joint issues, or want to swap out your couch for a treadmill while you catch up on your favorite shows, we have the options for you. Make your wishlist, take the proper measurements, then check out which treadmills under $1,500 satisfy both your budget and your fitness goals.

FAQs

What is the best treadmill under $1,500?

The NordicTrack EXP 7i is our pick for the best treadmill under $1,500, as it offers many of the same features you’ll get in higher-end machines like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 — but with a lower price tag. For example, you’ll still have iFIT integration — replete with SmartAdjust and 16,000 live and on-demand classes — but just on a smaller 7-inch display.

What does a decent treadmill cost?

We included treadmills that range from $299 to $1,477, so depending on your fitness goals and precise budget, we think there is an option here for you. If you need a 12- to 15-percent incline range or iFIT integration, you’ll need to drop close to $1,477. However, if you need to do some walking or jogging, or log a few more steps, you can find a good treadmill towards the low end of this price range.

Which treadmill is good for home use?

All of the treadmills on our list are good for home use, but the best option for you will depend on the space you need it to live in, and what you plan to use it for. Whether you just need to hit 10,000 steps a day, then stow your treadmill out of sight, or need to lock in for your marathon training, all these machines are good options for your home, apartment, or home gym.

References

Mersy D. J. (1991). Health benefits of aerobic exercise. Postgraduate medicine, 90(1), 103–112.

Horizon Fitness. (n.d.). HOW DOES THE 7.0 AT-04 CONNECT TO APPS? https://support.horizonfitness.com/hc/en-us/articles/4410237070221-How-Does-the-7-0-AT-04-Connect-to-Apps 

Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/ 

Chan, L., Chin, L. M. K., Kennedy, M., Woolstenhulme, J. G., Nathan, S. D., Weinstein, A. A., Connors, G., Weir, N. A., Drinkard, B., Lamberti, J., & Keyser, R. E. (2013). Benefits of intensive treadmill exercise training on cardiorespiratory function and quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Chest, 143(2), 333–343.

Rippe, J. M., Ward, A., Porcari, J. P., & Freedson, P. S. (1988). Walking for health and fitness. JAMA, 259(18), 2720–2724.

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Evie Corrigan (52KG) Sets IPF Raw Deadlift and Total World Records at 2024 Sheffield Championships

The 2024 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships in Sheffield, England, on Feb. 10, 2024, saw arguably the biggest torrential downfall of IPF raw world records ever. Defending Sheffield champion Evie Corrigan in the 52-kilogram class contributed to the storm.

Corrigan posted a superb performance, going eight for nine in attempts and setting two new IPF raw world records along the way. She chipped the IPF raw deadlift world record by half a kilogram up to 208.5 kilograms and shattered her IPF raw total world record by a monstrous 21 kilograms, ascending it to 481 kilograms. Check out her full performance below:

2024 Sheffield Championships Results — Evie Corrigan, 52KG

Corrigan weighed in officially at 51.8 kilograms. The weights below are in kilograms:

Squat

160

165

167.5

Bench Press

97.5

102.5

105

Deadlift

197.5

208.5 — IPF Raw World Record

216

Total — 481 kilograms — IPF Raw World Record

[Related: Taylor Atwood’s “World Champion Mindset” When Lifting Heavy In Training]

[Related: Wascar Carpio (59KG) Raw Deadlifts 273 Kilograms in Prep for 2024 Powerlifting America Raw Nationals]

Corrigan entered the 2024 Sheffield as the defending champion and came prepared to rewrite the history books. Unfortunately for Corrigan, she was surrounded by arguably the strongest female field of any raw powerlifting meet in IPF in history. Corrigan broke the world record in the 52-kilogram class by 21 kilograms and still fell shy of the podium.

The 2024 Sheffield ranked athletes of different weight classes based on their scored percentage of their respective weight class’s total world record. Corrigan held the record in the 52-kilogram class at 460 kilograms entering the competition.

Corrigan’s fourth-place finish is still immensely respectable, given her performance, and she did not leave empty-handed. In addition to her prize money for ranking fourth, she was also awarded £5,000 pounds for each record she broke, bringing her total prize payout to £16,000.

2024 Sheffield Championships Results

Corrigan eclipsed her previous IPF raw world record total, scoring 103.2 percent. However, the female field was so strong in Sheffield that it was only sufficient for a fourth-place finish overall.

Women

Agata Sitko (69KG) — 600 Kilograms, 109.3%

Prescillia Bavoil (69KG) — 585 Kilograms, 106.6%

Carola Garra (69KG) — 582.5 Kilograms, 106.1%

Evie Corrigan (52KG) — 481 Kilograms, 103.2%

Brittany Schlater (+84KG) — 710 Kilograms, 102.4%

Sonita Kyen Muluh (+84KG) — 708 Kilograms, 102.1%

Karlina Tongotea (76KG) — 610.5 Kilograms, 101.8%

Jade Jacob (57KG) — 519.5 Kilograms, 101.4%

Natalie Richards (57KG) — 516.5 Kilograms, 100.8%

Tiffany Chapon (47KG) — 431.5 Kilograms, 100.7%

Amanda Lawrence (84KG) — 647 Kilograms, 100.3%

Noemie Allabert (52KG) — 447.5 Kilograms, 97.3%

Men

Gustav Hedlund (93KG) — 895 Kilograms, 100.8% 

Jonathan Cayco (93KG) — 890.5 Kilograms, 100.6%

Delaney Wallace (83KG) — 842.5 Kilograms, 100.2%

Gavin Adin (93KG) — 887 Kilograms, 99.9%

Panagiotis Tarinidis (66KG) — 702.5 Kilograms, 98.9%

Timothy Monigatti (74KG) — 789.5 Kilograms, 98.7%

Carlos Petterson-Grifith (93KG) — 875 Kilograms, 98.5%

Anatolii Novopismennyi (105KG) — 925.5 Kilograms, 98.5%

Carl Johansson (74KG) — 785.5 Kilograms, 98.2%

Kyota Ushiyama (66KG) — 690 Kilograms, 97.1%

Jesus Olivares (+120KG) —1,152.5 Kilograms, 96.6%

Tony Cliffe (120KG) — 925 Kilograms, 94.5% 

More Powerlifting News

How to Train Powerlifting Once Per Week (And Make it Count)

2024 Paris Paralympic Games Medals Revealed

Zahir Khudayarov Squats 460KG for a Double in Wraps

Featured image: @beeevie on Instagram

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With DUMAGUS, Gyms Can Track Strength Training Using AI

DUMAGUS turns a gym’s weight room into a connected fitness experience, driving member motivation and engagement

Soon, you won’t be the only one doing heavy lifting during your workouts, thanks to DUMAGUS. Although the revolutionary system pumps iron strictly in a figurative sense, the impact and results are as real as they come – for members and gyms. 

DUMAGUS tracks, organizes, shares and safekeeps a user’s workout information — taking all the second-hand clutter that comes with exercising and passing it over into freer hands. The software promises to add a long-overdue sense of composition to weight training which has typically only been popularized with cardiovascular exercise equipment. Artificial intelligence (AI) powers the product, as it monitors and analyzes users’ workout data via sensors synched up with a gym’s equipment. 

Any gym or fitness facility can house the software, as the DUMAGUS team provides everything needed and takes complete care of the installation. Setup requires just one to two days, after which users can access the program and its features with any smartphone.

“Nowadays it’s very difficult to do anything without having some sort of audit trail or audit log. If you don’t know what it is that you’re doing or at least how you’re performing then you really don’t know where you’re going to go,” DUMAGUS Founder Ayo Ajanaku told Athletech News. “The great part about building this system is that it was done in a way that reduces all conceivable friction between the people using it and the results they’re trying to achieve.”

Ayo Ajanaku (credit: DUMAGUS)

Tracking Reps Ensures Precision & Safety

The software essentially removes the need for anyone to jot down their workout information in a notepad, count reps in their head or go as old school as using a stopwatch. DUMAGUS counts and catalogs your reps in real-time, leaving training itself as the only thing left for you to concentrate on. The concept maximizes efficiency in one’s workout experience and the AI ensures accuracy.

“We built a model that we trained through many types of repetitions and exercises. It’s like we’ve been teaching it the A to Z of gym movements,” Ajanaku said. “We refine what counts and what doesn’t through our clever engineers who go in and perfect the inner workings of the model.”

“Take the bench press, for example. You know how you lift the bar off the rack with your arms extended? Well, you wouldn’t call that one rep, would you? And neither does our system,” Ajanaku explained. “It waits for you to complete a full rep tailored to your own unique profile before it counts it.”

credit: DUMAGUS

The software aids in fostering a safe workout environment for its users too, especially those who exercise on their own. For example, DUMAGUS monitors things like weight distribution and velocity. If there’s any imbalance that might give way to an injury, the user will know. 

Motivate Your Members

DUMAGUS’ impact also goes beyond an individual workout, as it helps motivate gym goers to return at a consistent rate. The tracking system naturally makes users more conscious of their activities in the gym, prompting them to build on their progress by competing against themselves or even others.

This makes it a win-win product for individuals concentrated on improving their gym life and fitness businesses looking to grow. According to Ajanaku, gym-goers losing motivation is a common culprit responsible for low retention rates, typically affecting 50% of members every year. With DUMAGUS attacking that issue head-on, gyms could see as much as a 25%-90% profit increase with just a 5% increase in retention. 

After first building the tech, DUMAGUS went to Greece and installed the system in a commercial gym. They received a “very exciting” response from the gym owner and gym members who were using the software. 

“We know it works, we know it’s good,” Ajanaku said. “That’s the whole idea of it really. To enable and empower those people who like to weight train in a way that they haven’t been previously.” 

DUMAGUS is still searching for additional funding before putting its software in more gyms but has immediate plans to launch and scale commercially when the time comes. 

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Hyrox Enters Canada Amid Rapid Global Expansion

Dubbed the “Marathon of Fitness,” Hyrox events bridge the gap between traditional endurance races and functional strength movements

Hyrox, a fast-growing fitness race that incorporates running and functional workout stations, is entering Canada in its latest global expansion move.

The inaugural Canadian race will take place on October 5th, 2024, at the Enercare Centre in Toronto; Hyrox has responded to overwhelming demand for its fitness competition in Canada, which has a burgeoning health and fitness industry that was valued at $4.7 billion in 2023.

“We’re excited to be expanding our footprint to one of the biggest fitness and wellness markets in the world,” said Douglas Gremmen, managing director of Hyrox North America. “This move reflects our growth and commitment to making fitness racing a world-renowned sport, we’ve already welcomed Canadian athletes at races all over the world, so finally enabling participation on home turf has been a priority.”

The ‘Marathon of Fitness’

The Hamburg-based fitness company was launched in 2017 by Christian Toetzke, who serves as CEO, and Moritz Fuerste, an Olympian hockey player. Hyrox offers a unique fitness racing experience dubbed the “Marathon of Fitness” where participants from around the globe compete in the same standardized race format. Hyrox races include a series of one-kilometer runs and functional movements like ski erg, sled push, sled pull, burpee broad jump and other exercises. Participants can compare global rankings across all Hyrox events.

credit: Hyrox

All Hyrox races take place in large indoor venues, creating a stadium-like atmosphere, with DJs, food, drink, and brand activations. In 2023, 125,000 participants joined races, and Hyrox leadership anticipates that number will double in 2024.

Growing in Popularity

The brand has seen a significant increase in participation rates, with a 1,081% growth over the past five years, along with a 233% year-on-year increase in Google searches and over 55.6 million views on TikTok under the #hyrox hashtag. The race is also affiliated with over 2,500 gyms worldwide and will host events in 12 countries throughout the 2023/2024 season, culminating in the World Championships. 

“We’ve even surprised ourselves because at the moment we are almost doubling our (participation) numbers every year,” Toetzke told Atletech News in late 2023. “This season we will have 175,000 to 180,000 athletes doing our events. Our game plans to grow to 150 to 170 events in the 150 to 170 most attractive cities in the world,”

Toetzke believes that one day, there will be a million people actively participating in Hyrox events every year.

“We want to deliver the gold standard of fitness racing events, similar to what marathons are for running,” he said. “If you think about New York, you have 100 races a year but there’s only one New York City Marathon. Our job is to produce the New York City Marathon of fitness.” 

To kick off its Canadian presence, Hyrox is organizing a launch tour across several affiliate gyms in the country. Starting February 10th, this two-week tour will offer prospective athletes a glimpse into the races. Highlights will include a masterclass and a simulation event at One Academy in Toronto.

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Crunch Fitness Taps Pizza Hut Exec To Drive Franchise Growth

Crunch Fitness has named Chequan Lewis president as the fitness franchise eyes its “biggest year” yet

Crunch Fitness has appointed Chequan Lewis as president of its high-value, low-price (HVLP) fitness empire, while its CEO of franchising, Ben Midgley, will transition to Crunch’s board of directors.

The C-suite moves come as Crunch enjoys a high growth phase, closing in on three million members while being on pace to have over 500 club locations this year. The “No Judgements” gym brand recently secured the top fitness franchise spot on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500 list and 29th spot overall.

Lewis, a Howard University and Harvard Law School graduate, joins Crunch Fitness after serving as the chief operating officer and first chief equity officer of Pizza Hut. In his new role, he will direct operations for owned and franchised businesses, and develop growth strategies while working with Crunch executives and franchise owners. The new Crunch president is also a former business litigator and Presidential Leadership Scholar.

Chequan Lewis (credit: Crunch Fitness)

“I’m fired up to join the Crunch team on our journey to deliver legendary experiences for our Members, Gym Teams, and Franchisees,” Lewis said. “As a lifelong fitness enthusiast with a passion for franchising, coming to Crunch feels like a homecoming. I’m excited to grow the Crunch legend alongside a talented team and a committed franchise network.”

Fast Franchise Growth

Jim Rowley, CEO of Crunch Worldwide, remarked that Chequan’s strategic mindset and proven track record will bring Crunch to new heights — on top of recently sharing with Athletech News that 2024 will be the biggest year yet for the fitness franchise, with plans to increase its growth rate by 20 to 25%.

”Chequan brings a wealth of experience and has delivered tremendous results in his previous roles,” Rowley said. “We look forward to working together to build on the strong foundation at Crunch and drive our company’s success into the future.”

Midgley will settle into his new role on Crunch’s board of directors in mid-March while remaining  “integral in franchisee relations,” according to the fitness franchise. Under Midgley’s leadership since 2009, Rowley noted that Crunch has grown to become a leading fitness franchise and one of the fastest-growing brands in the space.

“With Ben joining the board, our franchise partners will continue to have a dedicated advocate and liaison to represent their needs across Crunch’s business strategies,” Rowley said. “This is the right move at the right time as we gear up for even greater growth in 2024 and beyond.”

Big Demand for Big Box Gyms

There is no doubt that boutique fitness has had a significant impact on fitness consumers in the post-pandemic era, allowing them to tap into specific training modalities of their choosing and participate in group fitness sessions, but big box gyms have been flexing their muscles, showing the timeless strength of the standard gym experience. 

Planet Fitness, which just launched its own media network, is nearing 20 million members and has introduced a new growth model for franchisees, believing it can hit 4,000 stores in time. Anytime Fitness is also experiencing demand and recently scored a win by partnering with Apple to boost member engagement. 

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Amanda Lawrence (84KG) Scores IPF Raw Squat and Total World Records at 2024 Sheffield Championships

Amanda Lawrence has extended the IPF raw squat world record to 249.5 kilograms (550.1 pounds) at the 2024 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships. On Feb. 10, 2024, Lawrence competed against 11 other of the world’s most elite female powerlifters across a range of weight classes for a huge prize purse and a chance to rewrite history.

Lawrence earned a £5,000 bonus for setting the new IPF raw squat world record. She went seven for nine in attempts. Her full performance is below:

2024 Sheffield Championships Results — Amanda Lawrence, 84KG

Lawrence weighed in officially at 83.5 kilograms. The results below are listed in kilograms:

Squat

235

249.5 — IPF Raw World Record

253

Bench Press

122

130

135

Deadlift

242.5

262.5

269

Total — 647 kilograms — IPF Raw World Record

[Related: Tiffany Chapon (47KG) Sets IPF Raw Squat, Bench Press, & Total World Records]

[Related: Jesus Olivares (+120KG) Sets All-Time Raw Squat World Record of 478KG at Sheffield 2024]

Lawrence’s new IPF raw squat world record was enough for the bonus prize money but was not, in fact, the heaviest she has ever squatted in competition. According to Open Powerlifting, Lawrence’s competition-best squat was her 256-kilogram squat at the 2020 USAPL Gainsgiving Open.

That lift is the second-heaviest all-time squat. The heaviest is Hunter Henderson‘s 267.5-kilogram squat at the 2023 WRPF The Ghost Clash 2.

Lawrence narrowly missed scoring a second world record and an additional £5,000 pounds. Had Lawrence successfully locked out her third deadlift attempt, she would have eclipsed the current IPF raw world record she currently holds by half a kilogram.

Despite missing her final deadlift, Lawrence still eclipsed the all-time IPF raw total world record by two kilograms. The rest of the field was stacked, and even with a new total world record, Lawrence ranked 11th out of 12. This is due to the Sheffield scoring that ranks athletes based on the world record percentage in their respective weight class — 11 of 12 female athletes at the 2024 Sheffield cracked IPF world record totals.

2024 Sheffield Championships Results

Below are the final standings from the 2024 Sheffield contest:

Women

Agata Sitko (69KG): 600KG, 109.3%

Prescillia Bavoil (69KG): 585KG, 106.6%

Carola Garra (69KG): 582.5KG, 106.1%

Evie Corrigan (52KG): 481KG, 103.2%

Brittany Schlater (84+KG): 710KG, 102.4%

Sonita Kyen Muluh (84+KG): 708KG, 102.1%

Karlina Tongotea (76KG): 610.5KG, 101.8%

Jade Jacob (57KG): 519.5KG, 101.4%

Natalie Richards (57KG): 516.5KG, 100.8%

Tiffany Chapon (47KG): 431.5KG, 100.7%

Amanda Lawrence (84KG): 647KG, 100.3%

Noemie Allabert (52KG): 447.5KG, 97.3%

[Related: Why Do Some Elite Powerlifters Squat With Such a Narrow Stance?]

Men

Gustav Hedlund (93KG): 895KG, 100.8% 

Jonathan Cayco (93KG): 890.5KG, 100.6%

Delaney Wallace (83KG): 842.5KG, 100.2%

Gavin Adin (93KG): 887KG, 99.9%

Panagiotis Tarinidis (66KG): 702.5KG, 98.9%

Timothy Monigatti (74KG): 789.5KG, 98.7%

Carlos Petterson-Grifith (93KG): 875KG, 98.5%

Anatolii Novopismennyi (105KG): 925.5KG, 98.5%

Carl Johansson (74KG): 785.5KG, 98.2%

Kyota Ushiyama (66KG): 690KG, 97.1%

Jesus Olivares (120+KG): 1,152.5KG, 96.6%

Tony Cliffe (120KG): 925KG, 94.5% 

More Powerlifting News

How to Train Powerlifting Once Per Week (And Make it Count)

2024 Paris Paralympic Games Medals Revealed

Zahir Khudayarov Squats 460KG for a Double in Wraps

Featured image: @miss.amanda.ann on Instagram

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Top Fitness Equipment Makers Change With the Times

Execs from Life Fitness, EGYM, Concept2 and iFIT share their thoughts and predictions on the future of fitness equipment

By ensuring a fitness facility or gym has the latest equipment and diverse options, gyms can be competitive and attract and retain members, especially those without access to cutting-edge hardware at home.

Athletech News spoke with four leading fitness equipment companies, Life Fitness, iFIT/Freemotion, EGYM and Concept2, to learn about their products and predictions for how gyms and fitness facilities will evolve in the coming years.

Based on our conversations with these four top brands, fitness operators wanting to have an edge over the competition must offer top-tier strength training and user-personalized connected equipment, bridge the gap between in-gym and home-based workouts and build a robust community.

Life Fitness Embraces Functional Training, Cardio Content

Founded in 1977, Life Fitness has long been a staple in the industry, offering strength, cardio and accessories under its signature Life Fitness brand as well as Hammer Strength.

The fitness equipment maker recently launched LFX, a functional training experience combining equipment with programming, education and digital experiences to give gyms an all-in-one solution. Such systems are a necessity, as Life Fitness notes workouts like Olympic weightlifting, kettlebells and calisthenics are increasing in popularity with gym goers.

“LFX was born as a way to help facilities create these spaces, and then actually program the spaces to bring them to life for their members,” says Leigh Wierichs, global training and education manager at Life Fitness.

credit: Life Fitness

With LFX, gyms can select from seven pre-designed equipment packages, all containing a combination of Life Fitness and Hammer Strength functional training equipment. 

“Our customers wanted to optimize the functional training experience for their exercisers, and we wanted to empower them with easy-to-implement solutions,” she said.

Life Fitness also unveiled the Discover SE4 cardio console, allowing facilities to boost member engagement with immersive entertainment, connectivity, workout content and branding.

“SE4 was inspired by research with exercisers and customers with the goal of creating truly immersive experiences to drive member engagement,” said Nick Yogerst, Life Fitness product director, consoles. “We wanted to bring the technologies that consumers expect and utilize in their daily lives into the fitness facility.”

The SE4 is available across the line of Life Fitness Integrity+ and Aspire cardio machines. 

For Concept2, Quality Is Paramount

Peter Dreissigacker, who founded Concept2 in 1976 alongside his brother Dick, has been fully immersed in sport and fitness, launching Concept2 out of his love of rowing. The Vermont-based company went on to create the RowErg, an indoor rower, the SkiErg, a cross-country ski trainer and the BikeErg, a sport-based ergometer. 

Dreissigacker says the ideal “gym of the future” includes three simple things: strength, cardio and Wi-Fi. 

“There will always be weights, perhaps along with some other kind of strength apparatus,” Dreissigacker said. “There will always be cardio to get people moving and (if they don’t already have it) the ‘gym of the future’ will have Wi-Fi to let people connect to their chosen ‘tribe’ and personal devices will be used in the gym to connect to a favorite app for training advice, recording their workouts in a log, entertainment and connecting to other users.”

As for what gives Concept2 the edge over other fitness equipment providers, Dreissigacker emphasizes the brand’s sport-based conception. 

“We came to this industry from the sport (rowing) and were focusing on the requirements of the sport and not the fitness industry,” he said. “One of the things of top importance to us was that every RowErg out there would give identical results all the time, which sounds simple, but there is a lot involved to ensure that happens. We have heard many times the RowErg referred to as ‘The Gold Standard.’”

credit: Concept2

Concept2 has come a significant way from producing a paper-based ranking system of times for specific events on the RowErg, notes Dreissigacker.

“As the world moved to the web, more opportunities became available for making connections and driving the ‘Concept2 Culture,’” he said. “Now, there is racing over the internet, online ranking data and training with partners and even strangers around the world in real-time, all part of our free app.”

Just as sports and fitness can drive fellowship, Dreissigacker believes fitness consumers are looking for equipment that can stand the test of time while providing a sense of community.

“There is certainly a portion of fitness consumers who want to be connected to others and I think consumers want to have that ability,” he said. “Some things don’t change. People want something that feels good to use, and they want something that has the quality to last.”

iFIT, Freemotion Go All-In on Connected Fitness

Freemotion, the commercial equipment branch of Utah-based iFIT, is reinvigorating the cardio experience at gyms with its 22 Series, a perfect blend of content and hardware that meets the needs of modern fitness operators. 

The 22 Series features six connected cardio machines: an incline trainer, Reflex treadmill, elliptical and three bikes, all equipped with HD touchscreen displays and access to iFIT workout content.

“The conversation (with fitness operators) has shifted from, ‘I need to replace my treadmills’ to ‘I need a digital solution,’” explains Peggy Vo, director of global marketing for Freemotion.

credit: Freemotion Fitness/iFIT

The 22 Series allows members to access iFIT’s vast library of coach-led workouts and takes it a step further with auto-adjusting technology, where speed and incline change depending on what’s happening on-screen. Users also can intervene to adjust the hardware manually.

“We like to call it ‘auto-magic,’” Vo says. “If you’re doing a climbing workout the incline is automatically going to climb as the terrain is climbing. As an exerciser, you don’t have to think about anything.”

Member retention has always been the biggest hurdle facing fitness operators, notes Vo, but with Freemotion and iFIT, members using in-gym Freemotion equipment can continue outside of the gym with the iFIT app. 

“This is a perfect solution to keep up with your members who want to work out outside of the gym,” Vo said. “Members can do a workout series on Freemotion equipment (in-facility), but if they can’t come in next week for whatever reason, say they’re traveling, they can go to any hotel gym and run the iFIT program on another treadmill.”

Freemotion offers gyms the option of purchasing membership-wide access to an iFIT subscription, boosting the member experience.

As Vo points out, it’s imperative that fitness operators embrace that some fitness consumers have adopted a hybrid approach.  

“We tell our customers, ‘You need to have a digital solution because you’re going to lose your members if not,’” she said. “You want them to use your digital solution and not someone else’s.”

EGYM Is the Leader in Smart Fitness

EGYM, a Munich-based global fitness technology company catering to commercial and boutique segments, has had a stellar 2023, receiving $225 million in growth capital and nailing its first profitable year.

Fifteen thousand facilities worldwide use EGYM’s products and services, such as its Fitness Hub, personalized Smart Strength trainers, Smart Cardio and digital fitness solution Mobile Packs.

Since the fit tech company has made exercising smart and efficient for operators, EGYM’s chief product officer, John Ford, envisions the “gym of the future” touting interconnected and interactive cardio and strength machines.

“Analog tools will (still) be popular, but the experience on these analog tools will also be digitally supported for users who desire the support,” he says.

credit: EGYM

Although EGYM released an eye-opening survey this fall revealing that many gyms haven’t fully adopted digital technology, Ford predicts fitness operators will strive to make seismic shifts in 2024.

“We have seen a big change in awareness and interest in EGYM products in newer markets this past year, across all gym types and segments,” he shared.

Of all of EGYM’s offerings, Ford points to the fit tech brand’s classic line in Circle Mode (a synchronized mode for guided and time-efficient workouts) as having stood the test of time. 

“Circuits have always been an effective and efficient way to get beginners training with less intimidation,” Ford said. “EGYM first enhanced this model with digital guidance and motivation over ten years ago, and to this day, 50% of our machines are installed in this mode to engage and guide new exercisers to success.”

He says EGYM’s key differentiator is its focus on digital equipment, ready to provide an entire ecosystem for operators who desire an entirely tech-first concept.

“There are competitors in the space that offer everything you might find in a gym,” Ford said. “They might have hundreds of analog products and a subset of true tech products. We believe it’s a lot easier to focus on great tech-driven experiences because 100% of our products are technology products.”

Ford also points to the increased recognition of strength training benefits and how that is changing fitness operators’ needs.

“Cardio floors are shrinking everywhere, and strength trainers are now a solid majority in gyms,” he said. “Groups that traditionally strength trained less, such as women, are breaking the old norms and becoming lifters. It’s great to see the modality getting the appreciation it deserves.”

The post Top Fitness Equipment Makers Change With the Times appeared first on Athletech News.

Tiffany Chapon (47KG) Sets IPF Raw Squat, Bench Press, & Total World Records

The 2024 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships occurred on Feb. 10, 2024, in Sheffield, England, and it was a monumental day for powerlifting history. A plethora of raw world records were toppled across multiple weight classes in both the men’s and women’s divisions.

Among them was a blazing performance by 47-kilogram powerlifter Tiffany Chapon of France. Chapon scored International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) raw world records in the squat, bench press, and total. Below is her full performance:

2024 Sheffield Championships Results — Tiffany Chapon, 47KG

Chapon weighed in officially at 46.7 kilograms. All the weights listed below are in kilograms:

Squat

155

161.5IPF Raw World Record

162.5

Bench Press

95

100IPF Raw World Record

101

Deadlift

160

167.5

170

Total431.5IPF Raw World Record

[Related: Jesus Olivares (+120KG) Sets All-Time Raw Squat World Record of 478KG at Sheffield 2024]

[Related: Taylor Atwood’s “World Champion Mindset” When Lifting Heavy In Training]

The 2024 Sheffield is a unique invitational meet where athletes qualified by scoring 95 percent of their respective weight classes’ total world records. Unlike typical meets where athletes compete against only athletes in their weight class, the Sheffield scores athletes across all weight categories based on the percentage total of their class’s total world record.

That means that although Chapon secured a brilliant performance comprised of three world records, including the all-time total world record in the 47-kilogram class — 100.7 percent of the total world record entering the contest — it was only sufficient for 10th place overall.

2024 Sheffield Championships Results

Below are the final standings from the 2024 Sheffield contest:

Women

Agata Sitko (69KG): 600KG, 109.3%

Prescillia Bavoil (69KG): 585KG, 106.6%

Carola Garra (69KG): 582.5KG, 106.1%

Evie Corrigan (52KG): 481KG, 103.2%

Brittany Schlater (84+KG): 710KG, 102.4%

Sonita Kyen Muluh (84+KG): 708KG, 102.1%

Karlina Tongotea (76KG): 610.5KG, 101.8%

Jade Jacob (57KG): 519.5KG, 101.4%

Natalie Richards (57KG): 516.5KG, 100.8%

Tiffany Chapon (47KG): 431.5KG, 100.7%

Amanda Lawrence (84KG): 647KG, 100.3%

Noemie Allabert (52KG): 447.5KG, 97.3%

[Related: Why Do Some Elite Powerlifters Squat With Such a Narrow Stance?]

Men

Gustav Hedlund (93KG): 895KG, 100.8% 

Jonathan Cayco (93KG): 890.5KG, 100.6%

Delaney Wallace (83KG): 842.5KG, 100.2%

Gavin Adin (93KG): 887KG, 99.9%

Panagiotis Tarinidis (66KG): 702.5KG, 98.9%

Timothy Monigatti (74KG): 789.5KG, 98.7%

Carlos Petterson-Grifith (93KG): 875KG, 98.5%

Anatolii Novopismennyi (105KG): 925.5KG, 98.5%

Carl Johansson (74KG): 785.5KG, 98.2%

Kyota Ushiyama (66KG): 690KG, 97.1%

Jesus Olivares (120+KG): 1,152.5KG, 96.6%

Tony Cliffe (120KG): 925KG, 94.5% 

More Powerlifting News

How to Train Powerlifting Once Per Week (And Make it Count)

2024 Paris Paralympic Games Medals Revealed

Zahir Khudayarov Squats 460KG for a Double in Wraps

Featured image: @turbo_tiff on Instagram

The post Tiffany Chapon (47KG) Sets IPF Raw Squat, Bench Press, & Total World Records appeared first on BarBend.

Jesus Olivares (+120KG) Sets All-Time Raw Squat World Record of 478KG at Sheffield 2024

Kilo by kilo, Jesus Olivares moves the needle. Among the many, many new powerlifting world records set over the course of the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Sheffield 2024 Powerlifting Championships was the Men’s super-heavyweight all-time classic squat record.

Olivares, on his final squat attempt of the session, successfully lifted 478 kilograms, or 1,053.81 pounds. This colossal lift put Olivares back in the record books, erasing Ray Williams‘ 477.5-kilogram (1,052.7-pound) record that had stood since 2017. 

[Related: The Best Lifting Belts for Powerlifting in 2024]

Here’s a full breakdown of Olivares’ performance at Sheffield 2024. Note that all weights are listed in kilograms: 

Back Squat: 420, 455, 478 | IPF Open Classic World Record

Bench Press: 255, 275x, 275x

Deadlift: 380x, 380, 429x

Total: 1,113

It’s worth noting that Olivares’ squat is an IPF open classic world record, but is not technically the heaviest raw squat made in competition to date. That accolade remains with Williams, who squatted 490 kilograms at the SBD Pro American powerlifting meet, which was held during the 2019 Arnold Sports Festival and is an USAPL record. 

Jesus Olivares on His Sheffield 2024 Performance

Despite setting a new world record in the squat, Olivares hardly had a perfect day on the lifting platform. Two errors made during the bench press portion cost him dearly, particularly on his third attempt, when Olivares racked the barbell before being given the appropriate signal from the judge. 

Olivares, the defending champion from Sheffield 2023, lost his title as a result, despite making a truly gutsy 429-kilogram final attempt during the deadlift portion. Shortly after the competition had wrapped, Olivares took to Instagram to share his thoughts

“Losing hurts 1000 times worse than how good winning feels, but that’s sports … I had the prep of a lifetime and came short … I’m going to follow this feeling of failure and turn it into something greater.” 

[Related: The Best Knee Sleeves for Squats (Personally Tested)]

How Powerlifting Works at Sheffield

The overall Men’s champion of this year’s event was 105-kilogram Gustav Hedlund, who finished with 100.78 percent of the 93-kilogram world record total. Hedlund himself totaled 895 kilograms, or 1,973.14 pounds. 

The Sheffield Powerlifting Championships don’t operate like a run-of-the-mill powerlifting meet. 12 men and 12 women athletes, all of whom were granted entry by lifting at least 95 percent of their classes’ world record total, compete across their divisions on a single leaderboard.

[Related: The Ultimate Guide on How To Increase Strength]

The athletes’ ultimate placing is determined by how far ahead of their classes’ world record they can total, regardless of which class they’re in. Here’s the final leaderboard from Sheffield 2024: 

Women

Agata Sitko (69KG): 600KG, 109.3%

Prescillia Bavoil (69KG): 585KG, 106.6%

Carola Garra (69KG): 582.5KG, 106.1%

Evie Corrigan (52KG): 481KG, 103.2%

Brittany Schlater (84+KG): 710KG, 102.4%

Sonita Kyen Muluh (84+KG): 708KG, 102.1%

Karlina Tongotea (76KG): 610.5KG, 101.8%

Jade Jacob (57KG): 519.5KG, 101.4%

Natalie Richards (57KG): 516.5KG, 100.8%

Tiffany Chapon (47KG): 431.5KG, 100.7%

Amanda Lawrence (84KG): 647KG, 100.3%

Noemie Allabert (52KG): 447.5KG, 97.3%

[Related: Why Do Some Elite Powerlifters Squat With Such a Narrow Stance?]

Men

Gustav Hedlund (93KG): 895KG, 100.8% 

Jonathan Cayco (93KG): 890.5KG, 100.6%

Delaney Wallace (83KG): 842.5KG, 100.2%

Gavin Adin (93KG): 887KG, 99.9%

Panagiotis Tarinidis (66KG): 702.5KG, 98.9%

Timothy Monigatti (74KG): 789.5KG, 98.7%

Carlos Petterson-Grifith (93KG): 875KG, 98.5%

Anatolii Novopismennyi (105KG): 925.5KG, 98.5%

Carl Johansson (74KG): 785.5KG, 98.2%

Kyota Ushiyama (66KG): 690KG, 97.1%

Jesus Olivares (120+KG): 1,152.5KG, 96.6%

Tony Cliffe (120KG): 925KG, 94.5% 

More Powerlifting News

Taylor Atwood’s “World Champion Mindset” When Lifting Heavy During Training

2024 Paris Paralympic Games Medals Revealed

Zahir Khudayarov Squats 460KG for a Double in Wraps

Featured Image: @kalashnicoach on Instagram

The post Jesus Olivares (+120KG) Sets All-Time Raw Squat World Record of 478KG at Sheffield 2024 appeared first on BarBend.