For Mattie Rogers, preparation is everything: “I keep everything I could possibly need to train or compete in my gym bag,” says Rogers, Tokyo 2020 Olympian and perhaps the United States’ most decorated female weightlifter ever.

After a grueling but ultimately unsuccessful push to qualify for the upcoming 2024 Olympics, Rogers took some much-needed time away from the weight room.

[Related: The Best Weightlifters of 2023]

Flash forward a few months and Rogers is finding her footing again as she prepares to return to competitive weightlifting later this year. On Jun. 7, 2024, Rogers shared the contents of her gym bag with fans on social media.

BarBend caught up with Rogers to dig a little deeper and unpack her must-haves for successful Olympic lifting workouts, plus her plans for the remainder of ’24.

What’s In Mattie Rogers’ Gym Bag?

We watched Rogers itemize her gym bag on camera and wondered what her one must-have item was. “That’s a hard question,” Rogers replied. “I think it might be my thumb tape. I use it every session without fail.”

Weightlifters almost universally rely on adhesive thumb tape when practicing their sport. Taping the thumbs reduces the painful sensations of a binding hook grip and ensures the barbell remains securely wedged in an athlete’s hands.

While tape may be unique to the wizardry of weightlifting, Rogers — a cheekily self-described “junk collector” — keeps plenty of other common gym accessories within arm’s reach. Here’s what you’d find inside Rogers’ gym bag:

Rogers doesn’t use all of these items on a workout-to-workout basis. For example, she prefers to lift without wearing a belt most of the time unless she’s performing a squat workout. “My coach says lifting straps are for pulls only,” she notes.

You’ll also find adhesive spray for her thumbs and, notably, a gait strap in Rogers’ gym bag.

Gait straps are typically used to assist seniors or those recovering from an injury by providing an “anchor” to steady their balance while walking or sitting down.

“I typically use [gait straps] during my mobility exercises,” Rogers remarks.

[Related: How To Determine the Right Weightlifting Shoe Heel Height]

Pre-Workout Nutrition

On her commute to the gym, Rogers downs a Reign Body Fuel pre-workout beverage. “Sometimes I’ll also drink protein powder while I train if I didn’t eat beforehand,” she says.

Not because protein has any specific performance-enhancing benefits when ingested during a strength training session — Rogers remarks that it’s a lingering habit from her years-long efforts to bulk up and make it into heavier weight classes. “It’s a habit that’ll stay with me forever, I think.”

Of Planes, Trains, and TSA Pre-Checks

Weightlifting competitions don’t typically provide access to too much gym equipment beyond lifting platforms, barbells, and bumper plates. For athletes like Rogers, that means getting really good at traveling overseas with exercise equipment in tow.

“There’s no room for anything other than gym equipment in my carry-on bag,” she jokes, noting that she deliberately avoids checking any of her listing essentials in case her luggage is lost or delayed in transit.

For the career weightlifter, touching down in other countries — Rogers’ last two international events were in Thailand and Saudi Arabia — without a toothbrush or phone charger is no big deal. But not having a lacrosse ball or exercise band handy can spell disaster.

Head? Down. Eyes? Forward. Gym Bag? Full.

Rogers has been the face of American weightlifting for a decade, but she’s not known for resting on her laurels. In weightlifting, it’s just as hard — or harder — to stay at the top after you get there.

“This year is not the year to push things before I’m ready,” Rogers notes of the sensitive nature of a leg injury that forced her out of Olympic team contention. But Rogers remains optimistic, offering that she expects to be “back at 100%” by the end of the year.

[Related: The Beginner’s Guide to Olympic Weightlifting]

Fans can expect to see Rogers make a return to the stage at the upcoming 2024 American Open Series II weightlifting meet on Aug. 29 in Fort Worth, TX. If all goes to plan, she’ll qualify for the World Weightlifting Championships in December in Manama, Bahrain. Until then, Rogers is staying in her bag.

More Weightlifting News

Opinion: Ego Cost Rahmat Erwin Abdullah a Gold Medal at the 2024 Olympics

18 Weightlifters Caught Doping in 2023: IWF Report

Meet the 5 Weightlifters on Team USA at the 2024 Olympics

Editor’s Note: BarBend is the Official Media Partner of USA Weightlifting. The two organizations maintain editorial independence unless otherwise noted on specific content projects. 

Featured Image courtesy of Mattie Rogers

The post Interview: The One Item 2020 Olympian Mattie Rogers “Must Have” in Her Gym Bag appeared first on BarBend.

Treadmill taking some lumps over the years? Just like a high-mileage car, even the best treadmills aren’t immune to time. All those successful runs and challenging workouts can lead to some breakdowns across key components, especially if you’ve been lax with your regular maintenance schedule. So, if you don’t want to completely curb your workout routine, it can be helpful to understand how to fix common treadmill problems when they arise.

Troubleshooting common dilemmas across your exercise equipment’s running belt, motor, console display, and more doesn’t require a doctorate in mechanical engineering, though. Many problems have their solution laid out clearly in your treadmill’s owner’s manual. Still, identifying the problem is oftentimes half the battle, which is where we come in. We’ve outlined five common treadmill problems below, along with their potential solutions to help you keep your cardio machines running smoothly for years to come.

Common Treadmill Problems And How to Troubleshoot Them

“Treadmills are generally tech-heavy, complex machines,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, so home gym enthusiasts can expect a bit of treadmill repair in their lives at some point. Below, we’ve outlined common treadmill problems, where they can stem from, and how to address the issues so your running workouts aren’t curtailed for too long. 

BarBend’s Jake Herod running on a motorized treadmill.

We’ve also gone ahead and outlined the tools required for each job. Typically, all that will be needed is your owner’s manual and a bit of patience, but small hand tools and one of the best treadmill lubricants may be necessary for larger tasks. Ready to put your handyman skills to the test? Let’s hop right in.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve thrown out your owner’s manual, you’re not out of luck. Many brands like NordicTrack, ProForm, and others have taken their instructions into the digital age with manuals for each treadmill model available online. If you know your specific treadmill brand and model, you can likely find the required documents with just a quick search.

Erratic Treadmill Speed

Whether you use your treadmill for running, interval training, walking, or another workout discipline, you want your speed to be as consistent as possible throughout your strides. If you feel your treadmill belt is showcasing erratic speed, you’ll want to correct this — and the problem can stem from a variety of areas.

First, examine your treadmill’s location. When figuring out where to position your treadmill, you’ll want to opt for a level, grounded patch of flooring that won’t have your treadmill base teetering and tottering during exercise. Make sure your treadmill is level before diagnosing further.

Our Tester moving the folded Schwinn 810 Treadmill.

Next, you’ll want to read through your trusty owner’s manual and find the recommended speed setting for your machine. Dial in the treadmill to this recommended pace, but do not get on the belt. Observe the belt revolutions for a few minutes.

If you notice any hitching as it moves through its spins, this can indicate that there’s interference or that a new belt is required. For information on how to go about this, please refer to our guide on how to adjust a treadmill belt for cleaning, lubrication, and replacement.

Running deck and treadmill belt of the Sole F80 treadmill.

If you’re watching the belt revolve with no qualms and the treadmill shuts down entirely, you can pinpoint the speed problem to the electronics. A faulty circuit could be the culprit, so we always recommend having your treadmill plugged directly into an outlet with a dedicated circuit breaker — do not use an extension cord. If you’ve determined it’s the treadmill motor, refer to your user manual for proper troubleshooting steps or call in a treadmill doctor.

Burning Smell

If you notice a burning odor when training, those aren’t the calories. A burning smell can be the result of a major issue and potentially lead to a larger fire, so it’s pivotal that you immediately hit the power switch on your treadmill, shut everything down, and remove the power cord from its outlet.

Burning odors can be caused by high friction between your running deck and belt. Use a proper treadmill lubricant to help remedy the issue. This can also be a good time to vacuum any dust from the motor case, as this debris can also lead to that burning funk — think about the first time you turn on your furnace every winter.

A BarBend tester cleaning the deck of the NordicTrack X32i.

For a burning smell linked to a power surge or electrical issue, the repair can be more involved. Thankfully, many top machines — even the best budget treadmills — carry a robust warranty package that can help cover any needed electrical parts. This is why finding a treadmill with ample coverage from the start is an absolute must. “I recommend looking for 10 years on the frame, at least two years on parts, and at least one year for labor,” says Capritto.

Treadmill Belt Slippage

The belt slipping is another common issue you may encounter over your machine’s lifespan. Oftentimes, a slipping drive belt can result from excessive lubrication or a problem across the belt’s tension, meaning it’s either too tight or too loose.

To check your belt’s tension, lift it up by the sides at the center of the track. You should be able to lift the belt between 2 and 3 inches from its resting position. If you can lift higher, the belt is too loose. If the belt won’t budge, it’s too tight. In either situation, you’ll need to correct the tension and align the belt back to its proper positioning.

A BarBend tester adjusting the belt the NordicTrack X32i treadmill.

Again, refer to your treadmill’s user manual for proper alignment and tightening steps. This will likely require some hand tools, too, including some Allen keys, pliers, socket wrenches, or screwdrivers, depending on your machine’s build. 

Read through your specific instructions, gather your tools, and get after it. We also recommend using a silicone treadmill lubricant at this time (not too much) for some additional preventative maintenance.

Display Errors

“High-def touchscreen consoles are becoming the norm,” says Capritto in reference to the abundance of treadmills with screens available today. As such, it can be downright frustrating when you go to take in a trainer-led workout only to find that the treadmill console won’t function properly.

Our tester utilizing the Quickspeed controls of the ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill

Treadmill display issues can be one of the most common problems dealt with in your home gym. Thankfully, though, they are often the result of minor electrical issues and take just a few steps to correct.

The first troubleshooting tip is to check that your machine is plugged in properly to its dedicated outlet. If your console runs on batteries, it can also be wise to check their conditions as well. After all, can you expect a power-reliant component to run properly if there’s no power being delivered to the source?

If power isn’t the issue, a reset to your treadmill’s circuit breaker could be in order. Unplug or remove the batteries, wait 60 seconds, and then power back up.

Power Supply Issues

Fumbling through troubleshooting steps and still can’t find a solution? Well, did you check to see if your treadmill was plugged in? While it can be an overlooked solution, sometimes your power cord can be the culprit of all your treadmill headaches. 

A BarBend tester inserting the safety key to the NordicTrack X32i.

You could have moved the machine slightly and pulled the prongs from their power source. You could have flipped the power switch off to conduct some routine maintenance and forgotten to turn it back on. Your safety key may not be in its proper position to activate operations. We’re not judging at all — trust us, we’ve been here, too.

[Related: Where Can I Get a Replacement Treadmill Safety Key?]

Preventative Maintenance Tips

While all the aforementioned treadmill problems can rear their heads unexpectedly, you can definitely set yourself up for fewer headaches down the road by adopting a treadmill maintenance regimen. In this sense, you can compare your treadmill to your car — doesn’t your automobile run better if you care for it regularly with oil changes, check-ups, and a cleaning every now and again?

But a solid treadmill maintenance schedule doesn’t need to include a 50-point inspection after each workout. A simple wipe down and disinfection is all you really need on a daily occurrence, along with keeping tabs on any strange noises or smells. 

It can also be beneficial to vacuum around your treadmill weekly and check for any signs of wear across the belt or frame, especially if your running or walking belt is spinning each day (that’s a lot of potential for dust and debris to make its way into your treadmill’s internals).

A BarBend tester cleaning the handlebars of the NordicTrack X32i.

The more involved processes — lubricating the belt, vacuuming the motor control board, checking the tension to prevent the belt from slipping off-center — can be done periodically throughout the year. We recommend every three to six months. Sure, it may seem like a headache now, but these small steps can make a big difference in ensuring your tread is always ready to perform.

Final Word

Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, states, “Treadmills, regardless of price range, provide an opportunity for people to access cardiovascular exercise when it may not be safe to do so outdoors.” So, when your treadmill stops working, it can be a real detriment to your fitness goals. Understanding how to fix common treadmill problems can be beneficial to your progress and equipment, allowing you to address and diagnose issues quickly with handy solutions that won’t sideline your training for long.

Of course, not every issue can be resolved with DIY gusto. Larger breakdowns across the motor and frame do occur, which is why we always recommend purchasing a treadmill with a worthwhile warranty package. That said, many treadmill problems can be eradicated with a simple maintenance schedule. Treat your machine with respect, use these troubleshooting tips when necessary, and help create a trustworthy home gym setup that’s free of unwanted breakdowns or operating snafus.

FAQs: How to Fix Common Treadmill Problems

The post How to Fix Common Treadmill Problems: Keep Your Home Gym in Top Shape with This Helpful Guide appeared first on BarBend.

The reigning Mr. Olympia, Derek Lunsford, isn’t resting on his laurels after clinching the Men’s Open title from Hadi Choopan in 2023. On June 5, 2024, Lunsford shared insights from his workout at Beach Bods Gym in St. Pete Beach, FL, and his cheat meal to fuel it. 

Derek Lunsford’s Cheat Day Meal

Following his arm workout, Lunsford visited a nearby Korean restaurant for what he describes as one of his final cheat meals before the start of his prep. He ate:

Ramen Noodles

Beef 

Quail Eggs

Korean Beef Bulgogi

Beans Sprout

Squid Salad

Lettuce

Peanut Butter

Teriyaki Sauce

Barbecue Sauce

Rice

See how Lunsford eats and trains below: 

In 2024, Lunsford wants to enjoy the season. “I’ve been trying to have fun. I want to get better, retain the title, and even come back better this year, but keeping it fun is what it’s all about,” he expressed.

Derek Lunsford’s Arm Workout

Lunsford consumes a protein shake before his gym sessions. Research indicates that pre-workout supplements can significantly improve athletic performance. (1) Below is his arm routine:

Machine Preacher Curl

Cable Triceps Pushdown

Superset: Alternating Dumbbell & Hammer Curl

Machine Tricep Pushdown 

Dumbbell Concentration Curl

[Related: A Guide to the Best Pre-Workouts, Tested and RD Approved]

Lunsford kicks off his arm training session with machine preacher curls, beginning with a warm-up followed by several working sets. He incorporates isometrics to intensify biceps tension. The International Journal of Sports Medicine supports isometric training to enhance muscle strength and growth. (2) Lunsford’s training partner spots him for the last set to help maximize Lunsford’s efforts. 

Lunsford uses the cable machine for a triceps pushdown to effectively engage the targeted muscles under steady tension. He follows with a pair of dumbbells for alternating dumbbell curls, followed by hammer curls to change the focus to the short head of the biceps and forearms.

After the triceps pushdown, Lunsford concludes his arm workout with concentration curls, performing them while flexing and extending his biceps slowly.

A Bodybuilder’s Impact

While demonstrating the triceps pushdown, Lunsford expressed that bodybuilding transcends weightlifting and muscle flexing. He contends that bodybuilders have the potential to profoundly influence lives and make a significant impact on the world.

“What actual impact are you making on others? In your community and just in the world in general,” asks Lunsford. “We could just be bodybuilding to glorify physiques, or we can talk about some real stuff like mental health, our faith, and making a positive impact. We can do both, not glorifying our bodies but building a better body and spreading a positive message. I feel like that’s not thought about too much.”

Lunsford notes this is the best he’s seen his physique at this weight. “I’m my worst critic, but I notice this is the strongest my physique’s ever been…the biggest, densest, and leanest it’s ever been at this weight.”

References

Martinez, N., Campbell, B., Franek, M., Buchanan, L., & Colquhoun, R. (2016). The effect of acute pre-workout supplementation on power and strength performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 13, 29. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-016-0138-7

Lum, D., & Barbosa, T. M. (2019). Brief Review: Effects of Isometric Strength Training on Strength and Dynamic Performance. International journal of sports medicine, 40(6), 363–375. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0863-4539

Featured image: @dereklunsford_ on Instagram

The post Derek Lunsford’s Cheat Day To Fuel His Arm Training appeared first on BarBend.

The ‘World’s Smartest Fitness Studio’ is realizing its expansion ambitions, inking an 8-unit development deal in Louisiana on top of an already signed agreement in Texas

Lumin Fitness, which has dubbed itself “The World’s Smartest Fitness Studio,” is bringing its AI-powered and gamified brand of boutique fitness to the Bayou.

The brand has signed an 8-unit development deal with franchise partner Louisiana Fit, representing its second multi-unit franchise agreement and initial steps toward the New Orleans, Lafayette and Baton Rouge markets. 

Kevin Moody, a Louisiana businessman with extensive ties to the state, led the investment group. Moody owns hundreds of franchise locations across the country with household brand names like Planet Fitness, Popeyes and Pizza Hut. 

“When we were introduced to Lumin Fitness, we knew it was a fit,” said Moody. “The distinctive business model and technology, combined with the team’s expertise and scalability potential, were precisely what we were seeking for our next investment. We can’t wait to introduce this innovative concept to the people of Louisiana.”

Lumin debuted its mission-based fitness games using AI, motion tracking and LED digital display walls this past fall with an initial studio launch in Irving-Las Colinas, Texas.

During the brand’s exercise experience, users select their music and training style in the Lumin Fitness app before embarking on a 40-minute full-body, high-intensity functional training workout with interactive elements. Participants receive real-time guidance and feedback from trainers during their workouts.

Before its Louisiana deal, Lumin signed an agreement with Verge Fit Holdings to open 13 locations over the next three years in additional Texas markets such as Dallas, Austin and Houston. The brand adds that it’s actively looking to sign more franchise partners.

“Our goal is to create a group of strong multi-unit operators who are as invested in our success as we are in theirs,” said Craig Sherwood, chief development officer at Lumin.

The post AI-Powered Studio Lumin Fitness Signs Louisiana Franchise Deal appeared first on Athletech News.

New episodes drop every Tuesday @ 6 AM EST.Listen on Apple, YouTube, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. VARIED NOT RANDOM #166: MATTIE ROGERS TALKS OLYMPICS, INJURY, TRAINING, & LIFE. RECENT EPISODES… View Post

Back in 2020 gyms closed down, people were stuck in their homes, and sourdough became the “it” girl… but a bright light through the darkness of the pandemic was at-home connected fitness equipment — from shiny exercise bikes to the best treadmills that your unemployment check could buy. Peloton may be most well known for their exercise bikes and classes, but the Peloton Tread is a solid treadmill with on-demand and live classes that can be taken via the connected HD touchscreen. 

Is the hype over Peloton’s programming worth the $2,995 price tag and $44 monthly subscription fee? Our team has tested over 50 treadmills from top brands, including the Tread, in an effort to find out. While the Tread’s specs often come in second place compared to other high-end treadmills, we think those looking for a studio-like experience from their living room may find a home within the Peloton community. You have questions. We have answers. We’ll cover everything you want to know in this Peloton Tread review.

Main Takeaways

Peloton provides some of the most engaging and entertaining programming we’ve tried, with live workouts, a roster of energetic coaches, and musically-themed runs.

A treadmill suitable for runners of all levels, the Peloton Tread features a max speed of 12 miles per hour and a 12.5-percent incline range.

The 23.8-inch HD touchscreen can stream studio classes, scenic trail runs, and entertainment from apps like Netflix, YouTube, Max, Disney+, and NBA (subscription required). 

Peloton Tread Highlights

The Peloton Tread has a footprint of 15.58 square feet — 68 inches long and 33 inches wide — making it about the same size as a standard loveseat. (1) It’s also smaller than many of the best high-end treadmills, which can measure between 70 and 80 inches long and 30 to 40 inches wide. 

It is, however, quite heavy at 290 pounds. “The Tread is relatively heavy,” said our tester, Tatum McKee, a casual runner who’s currently training for a half marathon. “So make sure [to place] it in a location you’re happy with because it is difficult to move.” It’s also worth noting that moving a treadmill with a big screen on top can make the process that much more awkward (and perilous). 

Our tester walks on the Peloton Tread.

“The design of the Tread is sleek and modern, and the 23.8-inch touchscreen is gorgeous,” said another tester, a certified personal trainer. This 1080p HD touchscreen provides clear and crisp viewing of Peloton programming, which consists of thousands of on-demand and live classes, scenic runs, and access to entertainment apps like Disney+, Netflix, and more. “They really are the best when it comes to their programming, smart technology, and everything that can be viewed and accessed from the screen,” mentioned our tester.

When it comes to training, the Tread provides a reasonable amount of functionality, but it may not be enough for more serious athletes. While the 3.0 CHP motor is in line with what we look for on running specific treadmills, the 59-inch running deck is shy of the standard 60 inches we tend to recommend for running or for those with long strides. Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, agrees. “You’ll want a running deck at least 60 inches in length to accommodate the length of a typical running stride,” she says. 

You’ll also find a max speed of 12 miles per hour and a 12.5 percent-incline here, a reason why we think the Tread is one of the best incline treadmills we’ve tested. 

Training With the Peloton Tread

We had three BarBend team members test out the Peloton Tread, running, walking, and jogging along to live classes and scenic outdoor trail runs over the course of multiple weeks. We took the Tread through all of its paces — exploring the touchscreen, engaging with the community features, and training at its max speed and incline to see if this machine could withstand a wide range of training.

Belt on the Peloton Tread.

To convey our findings in the simplest way possible, we’ve utilized the BarBend equipment testing methodology, rating the Peloton Tread on a scale of 1 (we don’t like it) to 5 (we love it) in categories such as durability, dynamic programming, tech capabilities, and conveniences. The following are areas from our training that really stood out to us. 

Setup

While Peloton sends professionals to build the Tread for you — the cost of delivery and setup is included in the total price of the Tread — our team struggled to get this machine up and running after it was built. 

“When I first went to calibrate the treadmill, it just shut off. It wouldn’t work so I had to reach out to Peloton’s customer service,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer. “They had to send a new screen and I had to have professionals come back to get it to finally work. The process of getting everything set up was super frustrating, but now that it works, I really like it.”

Running Classes and Coaching

Few brands can compare to the production value, music quality, and variety of the Peloton App, though it’ll cost you a hefty $44 monthly subscription fee. Tread classes are available in 13 different categories, with options available for beginners, advanced athletes, hikers, HIIT lovers, and bootcamp enthusiasts. 

Plus, you’ll be able to hop off the treadmill to take classes for strength training, barre, shadow boxing, yoga, and more. Dynamic programming scored a 5 out of 5. 

Peloton Tread

You’ll also find scenic runs that can take you around the world, featuring gorgeous backdrops in locations like Barcelona, Greece, Japan, and more. “I used the scenic run and the interval run,” said our tester, Tatum McKee. “They were very easy to use and engaging.” There are three categories of scenic tread workouts to satisfy users looking for virtual outdoor runs or who are interested in reaping the benefits of walking without leaving their homes.

Travelogues: Follow along with an instructor on guided runs. Auto-resistance and auto-incline can adjust your speed and incline depending on the terrain of the trail you see on screen.

Distance: As you run or walk through locations, the video is responsive to your speed and intensity, so if you speed up or slow down, so will the pace of the playback you see on screen.

Timed: Run or walk through locations around the world with a timed countdown rather than a distance goal.

Most importantly, the Peloton instructors are awesome and the playlists within classes are fire. There are currently 26 instructors you can choose from, including Matt Wilpers, a former D1 runner who gives cues to improve your form, and Jess King (one of my faves), who can turn any workout into a party. 

And the music selection is better than any other fitness app programming we’ve tried or tested. You can expect rides incorporating hip-hop, 80s, pop, punk, and rock, as well as artist series for performers like ABBA, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and more. 

Touchscreen

We think the Peloton Tread is one of the best treadmills with screens thanks to its 23.8-inch 1080p HD touchscreen. “The console was very intuitive to use,” said McKee. “…The font was large enough to read…. [and] even when sweating I felt like it was responsive.”

During a workout, this touchscreen provides you with stats and training metrics like power output, speed, elevation gain, heart rate, calorie burn, elapsed time, and more. Additionally, your training efforts will be stored so you can track your progress from one week to the next.

 In addition to streaming Peloton’s live and on-demand programming from this monitor, you’ll also have access to entertainment apps such as Netflix, Disney+, Max, YouTube TV, and NBA League Pass. However, you’ll need your subscriptions to access these apps. Tech capabilities scored a 5 out of 5. 

Speed and Incline

The max speed of 12 miles per hour supports runners looking to tackle a 5-minute-mile pace, and the 12.5-percent incline can help increase intensity and improve running performance. (2)(3) 

Adjustment knobs on the Peloton Tread.

“It is very easy to adjust the speed and the incline of this machine,” said McKee, who also measured the total time — 25 seconds — for the incline motor to adjust from 0 to 12.5 percent via the incline knobs. The knob on the right handrail controls speed and the knob on the left handrail controls incline. “The dials on the handlebars are some of my favorite features on this treadmill,” noted our tester, a certified personal trainer. You can also adjust your speed and incline by tapping preset values on the screen. Our tester gave their overall experience on this treadmill a 4 out of 5.

Additionally, a treadmill that’s adjusting up and down will need to provide a sturdy and stable experience or else you can risk injury. “It felt very sturdy and safe while running and walking even at the highest incline and speed,” said McKee. Durability scored a 4 out of 5.

What to Consider Before Buying the Peloton Tread

“Treadmills are a great home gym item for individuals who want to increase their daily or weekly cardio exercise via walking, jogging, or running,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. However, there are some areas you’ll need to consider when deciding if the Peloton Tread is the right treadmill for your home and routine.

Dynamic Programming

When selecting a treadmill to suit your training, make sure that the available programming will benefit your needs. The Peloton app offers a massive library with thousands of on-demand, live, and scenic classes for beginners and advanced athletes. 

Peloton classes can be taken off of the treadmill and streamed either from the touchscreen or your mobile device, with options like bootcamp classes, yoga, warmups, cooldowns, strength training, HIIT workouts, and more.

Without a subscription to All-Access, you basically have no access and won’t be able to take classes via the touchscreen or use any of the entertainment apps. You will have two or three sample run classes you can take without a subscription — just to wet your whistle —but you’ll primarily find yourself using the “Just Run” feature. 

“Just Run” allows you to adjust your speed and incline manually, and provides some basic stats like elevation, power output, distance, calories burned, and time elapsed.

Consider if trainer-led classes are what you’re interested in, and if your running experience would benefit from entertaining anecdotes, coach cues, musical motivation, scenic backdrops, the ability to compete for top placement on leaderboards, and a community atmosphere. This programming could be a game changer for your mileage or an unnecessary expense if it doesn’t align with what you want.

Footprint

Here’s an important question: Do you have enough space for the Tread? If it doesn’t fit in your home, you’ll probably want to continue your search for a machine with a smaller profile. “Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position if applicable. And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit,” says Capritto. 

Transport wheels on the Peloton Tread.

The Peloton Tread takes up 15.58 square feet of floor space, making it smaller than the average high-end treadmill, which can take up more than 18 square feet. It’s worth noting, though, that it is quite heavy at 290 pounds and it can’t fold when not in use. Portability scored a 2 out of 5.

Subscription Costs

As we’ve discussed, you’ll need to keep up with the $44-a-month All-Access membership to be able to use the HD touchscreen. While we love Peloton’s programming, if you’re not interested in it, there’s no reason to buy this treadmill, as you can find plenty of high-quality treadmills for a lower price. Check out our list of the best treadmills under $1,000. 

While an All-Access membership is needed to access programming from the touchscreen, there are more affordable subscriptions, although these are exclusively for use on a tablet or phone. The Peloton App+ membership ($24 a month) allows you to stream treadmill classes, however it won’t be able to track your training metrics like the All-Access membership. The Peloton App One subscription ($12.99 a month) offers three cardio classes a month, plus a wide assortment of off-Tread classes.

Peloton Tread Vs. The Competition

We’ve worn out our running shoes on over 50 treadmills over the years, and here is how the Peloton Tread stacks up against the competition. In the below chart, it’s Peloton vs NordicTrack, BowFlex, and ProForm. 

How does the Peloton Tread compare to the competition? The Tread, NordicTrack 2450, BowFlex Treadmill 22, and ProForm Pro 9000 all feature impressively large HD touchscreens which can be accessed with a monthly subscription fee, 12 miles per hour max speed, and access to incline training. However, the Tread is the only machine here that doesn’t provide any decline training and has the worst warranty out of the lot.

If you’re interested in accessing streaming apps, the Tread and BowFlex model both offer entertainment apps in addition to their built-in app programming. However, we’ve tested JRNY, and while the AI learning is intriguing, we didn’t think the classes were on the same level as Peloton or iFIT. Additionally, the Peloton Tread wins out over the BowFlex 22 when it comes to footprint, as the 22 takes up a massive 23.38 square feet of space compared to the Tread’s reasonable 15.58 square foot footprint.

When comparing the Tread to the 2450 and Pro 9000, it becomes a question of what kind of programming you’re interested in. The Tread has a marginally smaller footprint over the others, and a 3.0 CHP motor that’s slightly less strong and robust compared to the 2450 and Pro 9000’s 3.6 CHP motor. However, while we’re huge fans of iFIT and have tested many of the best treadmills with iFIT, you won’t find live classes on that app like you would on the Peloton Tread.

Places to Buy the Peloton Tread

You can purchase the Peloton Tread directly from the brand’s website, as well as via third-party retailers like DICK’s Sporting Goods and Amazon.

Customer Experience

Shipping from Peloton is free and can take between one and two weeks to arrive. At no extra cost, Peloton will deliver and set up your Tread in your room of choice in about 20 minutes. However, if you happen to live in a remote area, you may incur additional shipping fees.

“Most people won’t have to build their Tread since Peloton’s going to do this for you free of charge. However, if you do find you have to build your machine, I have a few tips,” said one of our testers, a certified personal trainer. “It’s easy to lose screws under the belt when attaching the arms, so be careful at this point to avoid making the same mistake I did.” 

They continued, “Additionally, give the monitor cable some slack when you install it or else it can unplug when adjusting later on.” 

Other than these two spots, our tester found building their Tread easy to do by themselves.

Warranties

“I recommend looking for 10 years on the frame, at least two years on parts, and at least one year for labor,” Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, says about treadmill warranties. In fact, many of the best Sole treadmills offer lifetime frame warranties. However, here is where we feel the Peloton Tread severely disappoints. 

The warranty covers the frame for five years, the belt and drive motor for three years, and the components for one year. This is a less-impressive warranty than the 10-to-lifetime frame warranties we’ve seen on similarly-priced machines. Warranty scored a 3.5 out of 5 with our team.

For an extra $299, you can extend the one-year components warranty to two years, which can cover accidental damage such as cracked screens or coverage from unexpected power surge failures. You’ll have limitless service and repair claims you can make within this one or two-year warranty period.

Company Information

Peloton was born in 2012 and over the last decade has become popular due to their high-energy coaching, impressive music selections, AI-powered personal training devices, and live classes, which are filmed in New York and London. The Peloton Bike is their most popular product, but they also sell treadmills and rowing machines, all of which feature large touchscreens that sync with the Peloton app and its library of on-demand and live classes. 

To contact Peloton, you can reach a representative seven days a week between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. ET. To do so, you can call 1-866-679-9129 or start a live chat from the brand’s web page.

In Conclusion

The Peloton Tread is popular for a reason, and that reason is because it gives you access to a wide range of engaging and entertaining live and on-demand classes. While comparable treads can have a higher speed and incline range — and we’ve seen better motors on less-expensive machines — the Peloton community is truly one of a kind. 

Before you pull the trigger and bring a Peloton home to support your treadmill workouts, keep in mind that Peloton now allows some third-party treadmills with Bluetooth capabilities to pair with the app. While you’ll have to stream programming from your own device if you go this route, it’s certainly a worthwhile consideration if you’re interested in saving some cash. 

FAQs

References

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

Unknown. (n.d.). Running Pace Conversion Chart. https://www.unco.edu/campus-recreation/pdf/intramural-sports/spring20/running-pace-chart.pdf

Barnes, K. R., Hopkins, W. G., McGuigan, M. R., & Kilding, A. E. (2013). Effects of different uphill interval-training programs on running economy and performance. International journal of sports physiology and performance, 8(6), 639–647. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.8.6.639

The post Peloton Treadmill Review (2024): Solid Programming, Mediocre Machine appeared first on BarBend.

The 2024 Olympics begin in less than two months. And as the commencement of the summer Games on Jul. 26 looms ever closer, we’re starting to wonder who will take home those precious gold medals in Paris.

On Monday, Jun. 10, two-time Olympic Champion Lasha Talakhadze (+109KG) posted a 320-kilogram, or 705.4-pound, back squat double to social media. It’s a mammoth squat from the king of the Men’s super-heavyweight division. But does it signal that Talakhadze has the strength to win his third straight Olympic title?

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Shoes for Squats]

We’re going to break down Talakhadze’s squat and then channel the spirit of Stephen A. Smith to determine if Talakhadze’s trajectory is pointed at the top of the podium or if he’ll suffer his first international defeat in over a decade at the 2024 Olympic Games.

Lasha Talakhadze Back Squat: 320KG for 2

The video in question was posted by Georgian sports physician Giorgi Asanidze, who documents most of Talakhadze’s weightlifting workouts. This isn’t the first time Talakhadze has squatted 320 kilograms or more — his last double at this weight hit the net on Jul. 5, 2023.

Talakhadze recruited the assistance of not one but two spotters. Not to assist him with getting the weight up, but to ensure Talakhadze’s weight plates remain on the sleeves of his barbell. The bar was packed to the ends — too full to even use barbell collars.

[Related: The Best Pre-Workout Supplements for Squat Workouts]

Will Lasha Talakhadze Win the 2024 Olympics?

Since his triumph at the World Weightlifting Championships in 2015, Talakhadze has relentlessly dominated the Men’s super-heavyweight division. Glance at his resume on the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) directory and you might mistake it for El Dorado:

Talakhadze has won every single weightlifting meet he’s competed in since 2015.

He was the gold medalist at the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.

Talakhadze is a seven-time European and World champion and holds all three Senior world records in the Men’s super-heavyweight division.

But his momentum has finally begun to slow. After a career-best performance at the 2021 World Weightlifting Championships, where he posted a record 492-kilogram Total, the Georgian giant has failed to match or exceed that level of strength:

Best Total in 2022: 466 kilograms

Best Total in 2023: 474 kilograms

Talakhadze withdrew from the 2024 IWF World Cup in April — a strategic move to “focus on Paris,” but the decision indicated Talakhadze may still be struggling to find his footing and return to the level of readiness that made him the indisputable modern G.O.A.T. of men’s weightlifting.

So, does Talakhadze have what it takes to win a third Olympic gold medal? We think so, but only just. A common Olympic lifting rule of thumb is that an athlete’s best clean & jerk should roughly equal 80% of their back squat.

80% of 320 is 256 kilograms (bear in mind he hit it for two reps); that’s below Talakhadze’s world record clean & jerk of 267, but Talakhadze has not jerked more than 253 since 2021.

[Related: The Best Weightlifters of 2023]

A 320-kilogram squat double bodes well for Talakhadze’s strength ahead of what some fans suspect will be his final Olympic Games, but he’ll need to transfer that leg strength to a big clean & jerk in a competitive setting while fending off newly legitimized threats to his position from Lalayan and Minasyan.

Talakhadze will compete in the Men’s +102-kilogram Group A weightlifting event at the 2024 Olympics on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

More Weightlifting News

Team China’s Weightlifting Roster for 2024 Olympics Revealed

Opinion: Why Weightlifting Sucks to Watch in 2024

Hampton Morris Breaks 50-Year Record Drought for USA

Featured Image: Jenny Marchese / @one_kilo_

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