Review of Merit Fitness 715T Treadmill (reviews, best, used, problem)
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I bought the treadmill to use in my home during bad weather months. Though I'm not a rabid runner, I do try to jog short distances most days. Though it's not the same as running outside, of course, I find this treadmill to be a decent replacement.
As I exercise late at night, the quietness of the machine is one of its best features. The motor is very quiet. The loudest part is the bouncing of the machine during use (there's more on this a bit later).
The treadmill is easy to assemble into a solid piece. It folds down easily to a fairly small shape, although not small enough to fit under the bed and not light enough to put in a closet by myself.
The display is nice, with easy-to-read numbers. Anyone who has used a treadmill will be able to figure out the functions and settings. I like having the settings, like interval training or varied hills. Because I'm not naturally inclined to ramped up my workout, having the machine do it for me is a necessary prompt.
There are a few problems. The incline is manual. While it is not difficult to adjust, it must be adjust while the machine is off and the user has to climb off and pull the ramp up to the desired position.
It's also a lightweight machine, best suited for walkers rather than runners. I am more than a hundred pounds below the weight limit, but the machine still shakes alarmingly while I jog in my easiest, smoothest stride. Though I've come to realize I won't break the machine, it is still unnerving and I can't help wishing for a heavier, truly professional machine.
For the price, it's a good machine with a decent control panel and sturdy construction. Overall, this treadmill is effective, accessible, and safe to use.