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The ProForm Pro 7500 treadmill is an upgraded version of the Pro 7000, with a large 22″W x 60″L running area, 34 onboard workout apps, and wireless heart rate monitoring. But how does this compare to the top-of-the-line Pro 9000?
As part of a collection that also includes the bestselling Pro 2000 treadmill, the Pro 7500 was redesigned in 2015, and offers a touchscreen display, iFit enabled console, and built-in web browser. So is this enough to set it apart from similarly priced treadmills, such as the NordicTrack 1750?
In this review we take a close look at the design features, entertainment options, workout programs, and benefits of the iFit service, to help you decide if the Pro 7500 is the best treadmill to help you achieve your own personal fitness goals.
Note: The ProForm Pro 7500 has now been discontinued. For an up-to-date list with reviews for all the latest ProForm treadmills, we recommend taking a look at our comprehensive buyer’s guide.
Design and safety features
Despite being an upgrade of the Pro 7000, the Pro 7500 treadmill actually includes many of the same physical design features. But one area that has been upgraded is the motor, which is now the 4.0 CHP rated version of the Mach Z™ Commercial Pro motor (0.2 CHP more than the Pro 7000). In reality this isn’t much of a difference, so has it had any impact on the maximum belt speed and incline settings?
Unfortunately not, but considering the belt speed is already capped at 12 mph and the incline range varies from -3% to +15%, we’re not overly disappointed. You have to remember that unless you’re buying a specialist treadmill that’s designed for steep incline training (NordicTrack Incline Trainers) or marathon preparation (Boston Marathon treadmills), these are the best settings you’ll find on any home treadmill.
Although it’s not quite the 40%+ gradient of the Incline Trainers, having this incline range is enough to create a running experience that closely emulates the feeling of running over changeable terrain. This is something that’s used a lot in the Map category of iFit workout programs. Setting the running deck to steeper inclines also has the benefit of burning more calories in a shorter space of time compared to flat running at the same belt speed.
The combination of incline and decline running deck settings even allows you to shift the focus between different lower body muscle groups – steep inclines for increasing muscle tone in your hamstrings and glutes, with shallower gradients and decline settings for quads and calves.
Taking another look at the large frame motor it’s obviously constructed from high-grade components (backed by a lifetime warranty), and uses an internal cooling system to reduce vibration and wear on parts, creating a quieter indoor running experience. Although it’s slightly less powerful than the 4.5 CHP motor of the Pro 9000 treadmill, it can still comfortably handle the full belt speed and incline settings, even under the full 350 lb capacity. The motor also includes an in-home efficiency booster to reduce the amount of electricity it requires.
Another important feature to mention is the 22″W x 60″L running surface, which supports the natural running stride of taller users much better than a shorter running deck with a 50″ or even 55″ long running surface. This is the same size running area that you’ll find on the top-of-the-line Pro 9000, and bestselling Pro 2000 treadmills of the same series.
Underneath the tread belt, built into the running deck you have ProForm’s highly popular ProShox™ cushioning system, which has been a key feature of most ProForm treadmills, including the Pro, ZLT, and Sport series designs. This serves to reduce the impact when your foot strikes the tread belt, which reduces the stress on your feet, as well as your knee, ankle, and hip joints.
One final feature worth mentioning is the large 2.5″ precision-machined rollers, which are designed to decrease tension on the tread belt. These are slightly larger than the set you find on ProForm’s Sport series treadmills, which reduces the likelihood of sideways belt movement due to more of the belt being in contact with the rollers.
Safety features
As with the Pro 9000, the ProForm Pro 7500 includes a number of unique safety features you won’t find on most other ProForm treadmills. This includes the safety screen timeout feature, where the console automatically resets if no buttons are pressed and the belt hasn’t moved in a set amount of time. Then you have the child-safety passcode, which is a 4 digit sequence that’s used to unlock the console and enable the buttons.
These features are in addition to those offered by ProForm’s more affordable treadmills, such as a short set of hand rails and side plates in case you lose balance, and a safety key in the event of a fall. The safety key is a short lanyard with a clip at each end, with one clip attached to your clothing and the other to the console. In the event of a fall, the clip detaches from the console and the belt comes to a stop. It’s a standard feature of most motorized treadmills, but still worth a mention.
ProForm Pro 7500 Treadmill – Features Summary
- 15% Incline, -3% Decline
- 0-12 MPH QuickSpeed® Control
- 4.0 CHP Mach Z™ Commercial Pro Motor
- 22″ x 60″ Tread Belt
- 34 Workout apps
- 7″ full-color web-enabled touchscreen
- 350 lb Weight capacity
Display console design
The Pro 7500 console features a similar design to the Pro 5000, with a 7″ full-color web-enabled touchscreen that lets you catch up on your favorite TV show or watch a movie via the built-in internet browser. If you’re more interested in your running performance, you can also swipe the screen and switch back to a display of your most important workout feedback. This includes the speed speed, time, distance, heart rate, incline, and number of calories burned.
If watching movies isn’t your thing, you can always take advantage of the MP3 and iPod® compatible Intermix Acoustics 3.0 sound system, with two 3-inch speakers for listening to your favorite workout music. Intermix Acoustics is featured throughout the ProForm treadmill range, but the 3.0 version can only be found on their Pro series, Boston Marathon series, and the ProFormPremier 1300. If you need somewhere to store your device while you run, you can always use the accessory tray or setup on the integrated tablet holder.
The Pro 7500 console also includes dual multi-speed CoolAire™ workout fans, which create a more comfortable workout environment that can improve your endurance over longer running sessions.
Heart rate monitoring
Most home treadmills are configured to work with one or more types of heart rate monitoring, which are usually referred to as ‘touch’ and ‘telemetry’. Because the Pro 7500 is part of the Pro series, you can choose from both. Either you use the dual EKG™ touch sensors that have been built into the handles, or wear a compatible chest strap for transmitting the reading to the console.
Touch sensors are great, but they are generally better suited to short periods of monitoring, and preferably during walking or jobbing workouts. For running, it’s much more efficient to use a wireless chest strap, as it allows you complete freedom of motion and doesn’t require you to maintain constant contact with the handles. Not only does the Pro 7500 support telemetry heart rate monitoring, it even includes a wireless chest strap to help get you started.
Workout programs and user profiles
The ProForm Pro 7500 features a console that’s identical to that of the Pro 7000 treadmill, with the same Quick controls, button layout, and entertainment options. But are there any differences in workout programs?
Between the Pro 7000, Pro 7500, and Pro 9000, the only difference in terms of fitness programs is a slight increase in the number of onboard workouts. All three treadmills have the same categories for onboard workouts and iFit programs, as well as the same targets for the Set-A-Goal programs.
Program summary:
- Onboard program categories: Calorie, Speed, Incline, Intensity, Random
- iFit program categories: Map, Train, Compete, Track, Set A Goal, Video, Lose Weight
- Set-A-Goal options: Distance, Time, Calories Burned, Pace
The variation in the number of onboard workouts isn’t exactly noteworthy either, with all three models offering between 34 and 38 programs.
So in summary, although there are some important differences in terms of the physical features (motor power, screen size, etc.) you have access to practically the same range of workouts with the Pro 7000, Pro 7500, and Pro 9000.
Workout program categories
- ManualOf all the workouts available on the ProForm Pro 7500, Manual gives you the greatest freedom once the program starts. There’s no pressure to achieve a target and you’re not following any preset profile of speed and incline settings. The running deck and tread belt only adjust when you make selections at the console, giving you complete control over the workout intensity.This is also one of the best options for a lower intensity workout, such as walking or jogging, and you can still keep track of important workout information via the different display modes on the screen.
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Onboard WorkoutsThe onboard workouts for the Pro 7500 operate in much the same way as for the Pro 7000 and Pro 9000. As we mentioned earlier, the only difference is in how many you have access to.Each program is a profile of segments, where each segment is used to store the incline and speed settings for the different stages.
As the workout progresses, the treadmill automatically adjusts to meet these settings, but you can always override the current segment using the Quick controls on the console if you need to change the intensity.
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Set-A-Goal WorkoutsOne of the benefits of buying a treadmill in ProForm’s Pro series is that you have access to the full range of goal programs. This allows you to set a target for the distance, time, number of calories burned, and even the pace of your run.Not every ProForm treadmill includes Set-A-Goal programs, and of the ones that do there’s only a select few that include this Pace option. It’s normally only included on their high-end treadmills that are designed to withstand heavier use on a regular basis, such as training for distance events.
This is one of the reasons the Pace goal also featured in ProForm’s Boston Marathon treadmill collection, which currently offer an unprecedented 15 mph maximum belt speed and ultra powerful 4.25 CHP motor.
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iFit WorkoutsAs with most of the Pro series treadmills, the ProForm 7500 includes an iFit enabled console. This means you have access to the full benefits of iFit technology, but only after signing up for a paid subscription and connecting the console to a Wi-Fi network.In our opinion this still works out more cost efficient than the treadmills that support iFit Workout Cards, but whether it’s a feature you need for your routine very much comes down to personal preference.
At the time of writing this review, an iFit Premium subscription works out to about $21 per month, but this gives you access to a complete health and fitness solution.
iFit have also developed their own range of personal fitness trackers, called View, Link, Act, Classic, and Duo. But if you were to compare the costs of an iFit subscription against buying one of these fitness wearables on its own, how much more do you get for the money?
It really comes down to the improved overall workout experience that an iFit enabled console can bring, but given the choice and if budget isn’t an issue, we would recommend taking advantage of both.
iFit from the treadmill console gives you advanced workout performance tracking and access to hundreds of personalized downloadable workout programs, designed by world-class trainers. You can also create custom workouts using the Workout Builder, which includes mapping out a real-world route with Google Maps™ technology.
Away from the treadmill an iFit membership gives you access to everything from on demand workout videos to meal plans, weight loss programs, and challenges, as well as an active community where you can share you achievements and find fresh motivation. Your iFit account can be accessed from your computer, smart phone, tablet, or the ProForm Pro 7500 console.
Ease of assembly and maintenance
ProForm continue to be one of the best fitness companies in the industry for designing cardio equipment that’s quick to assemble, with clear setup instructions that are easy to follow. Although it’s probably not something you want to base your buying decision around, knowing what to expect from the assembly process can help you get started with your new fitness routine as soon as possible.
Fortunately, the ProForm Pro 7500 user manual includes clear step-by-step written instructions, accompanied by exploded diagrams with parts references to show how each part fits together. ProForm even include most of the tools you need, including a hex key that can adjust the walking belt.
It’s important to bear in mind that ProForm recommends two people for this assembly. That’s because having most of the treadmill pre-assembled cuts down on the setup time, but does mean you’re moving heavier parts around, such as the running deck.
If this isn’t possible, an alternative to self-assembly is the ProForm professional assembly service.
Professional assembly services
Many modern fitness companies now offer an in-home assembly service, which is often a more convenient option than assembling the equipment yourself.
ProForm only guarantee curbside delivery, but as part of the initial purchase they do offer an in-home assembly service, depending on your location. As an alternative, Amazon have also started offering their own home assembly service for treadmills.
With Amazon, your options very much depend on your location, but it’s an excellent way to find highly rated local companies that can setup the treadmill for an affordable price. Moving the treadmill to a new room isn’t included, so you’ll need to have the boxes in the location you plan on using the machine. If Amazon don’t have service providers in your area, you can sign up to be emailed when they become available.
Transport and maintenance
As with most of their treadmills, the ProForm Pro 7500 is fitted with transport wheels, which make it easier to move between rooms if needed. You can also benefit from the folding SpaceSaver® design, which is fitted with a powerful shock (EasyLift Assist) for reducing the effort needed to raise the deck to its vertical storage position, creating a compact footprint.
For maintenance, the user manual is packed with useful information to keep the treadmill running smoothly. This includes how to update the console firmware, set a child-safety passcode, calibrate the incline system, and troubleshoot basic issues.
What’s covered by the warranty?
- Frame: Lifetime
- Motor: Lifetime
- Parts: 5 years
- Labor: 2 years
Review Overview
Overall Review Rating
3.5 / 5
So is the ProForm Pro 7500 the best treadmill for your own personal fitness routine, or is the upgraded Pro 9000 a more cost effective option? Also, are there any treadmills in the NordicTrack collection that offer more advanced features for the same price?
The Pro 7500 is actually in the same situation as the Pro 4500 and Pro 7000, in that it’s one of the treadmills ProForm recently discontinued. Although it’s no longer available through their official website, several vendors still have a few models listed on eCommerce sites like Amazon.
Unfortunately this often means the Pro 7500 is excluded from any sales ProForm has, resulting in a higher list price. At time of writing there were models in stock on Amazon for under $1,500, but during our review of the Pro 7000 we found it listed for nearly $4,000.
So price and availability is a major issue. But if you take a look at the features, you’ll see it’s virtually identical to the Pro 5000, which is still an active treadmill in ProForm’s Pro series. Usually retailing for just under $1,500 when it’s on sale, the Pro 5000 is a new design for 2016, and offers the same incline range, console screen, motor, belt speed, warranty, and cushioning system as the Pro 7500.
But this is where we’re going to highlight the NordicTrack 1750 treadmill, as we did when reviewing the Pro 4500 and Pro 7000.
The NordicTrack 1750 is usually on sale for the same price as the Pro 5000, with many of the same features (slightly lower 300 lb capacity). The only real difference is the Runners Flex™ cushioning system, which can also be found on the top-of-the-line Boston Marathon 4.0.
ProForm and NordicTrack are both owned by the same parent company (ICON) so it’s not unusual to see their technology cross over. But the NordicTrack 1750 is the only treadmill at this price that we’ve seen to offer this cushioning. NordicTrack also issued a statement on their website, stating that their engineers “made changes to the incline pivots and cushioning for better durability and major noise reduction” in 2016.
So in summary, we would have to recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill over the ProForm Pro 7500.
Product dimensions: 39.5"W x 63"H x 80"L Weight capacity: 350 lbs
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