The ProForm 785CS Treadmill: A Steady Machine for Walkers

The ProForm 785Cs treadmill is an exciting budget model that features automatic workout intensity and incline control adjustments. Even if you are a beginner and don’t have a clue about how to start a cardio exercise program, the on-board programming will take you through the steps to help you lose weight and improve your fitness level in a few weeks.

The Machine

At $799, the ProForm 785CS treadmill comes with 16 pre-programmed workouts as well as the popular iFit® technology which allows for different exercise instruction cards to be plugged into the console. The card automatically adjusting your speed and incline while the audio portion of a Personal Trainer both motivates your workout as well as coaches you through your paces.

The full list of features on the ProForm 785CS includes:

• 2.25 Mach Z™ HP Commercial Motor
• 0-10 mph Quickspeed™ Control
• 0-10% Quick Incline™
• 20" x 55" treadbelt
• ProStride™ Adjustable Cushioning
• 16 Personal Trainer Workouts
• Interplay™ Music Port
• iFit® Workout Card Technology
• Dual-Grip EKG™ Heart Rate Monitor
• 325 lbs. max. user weight
• CoolAire™ Fans
• SpaceSaver Design
• 20 Year Warranty on Motor; 90 days labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The 785 CS treadmill is no longer available for sale.  To find a comparable treadmill check out the new full lineup from ProForm to see which model appeals to you.

The ProForm 785CS treadmill has a short labor warranty and a smaller but still adequate tread belt. The cushioning is a plus but the HP motor is not for runners. Experts and equipment pros also point out that the 90-day parts and labor warranty is weak and you’ll need to purchase an extended warranty.

The features on the ProForm 785CS are very nice but users are finding that the parts are cheap and that problem, along with the short labor warranty, is a bit of an issue.

Cheaper parts and plastic consoles and motor coverings are what keeps the prices down on these models, so most users realize they can’t be too critical in their treadmill reviews.

The only real issue that came up with the ProForm 785CS was that the frame feels stable at low speeds, but at high speeds (6-9 mph) there is a noticeable shake while running. That’s a Red Flag for runners, but if you are looking for a walking / light jogging machine, this won’t be a problem for you.

What We Say

The ProForm 785CS is an average treadmill for the price and nothing in terms of major quality stands out. Even though ProForm uses a lot of cheap plastic parts on the machine, it might still give you a few years of good use.

However, if you are looking for a cheap running treadmill, we suggest you look at brands which have better sales on proven models.

You can’t go wrong with the best-sellers at this price range; for example, we recommend you take a look at the NordicTrack Commercial 1500/ZS (formerly known as the 1500) or the popular Sole F63 before you invest your money in a ProForm 785CS treadmill.