Reebok ZR8 Treadmill Review
Mark’s Big Update:
Reebok refreshed their treadmills line up in 2023 – replacing the ZR8 treadmill with some impressive new models.
Closest to the ZR8 spec is the Jet 200 – with new treadmills with bigger specs stealing the show.
Here are the options:
Reebok Jet 200 Treadmill: This model packs an impressive spec into a mid-priced unit. You get 18km / hour top speed, electronic incline (15 levels), and a unique air-flow cushioning system. It works with the Reebok app, and synching your phone or tablet is simple. A lot of treadmill for the price. Check out my detailed review here, or skip to the impressive gallery and check the latest pricing at the official Reebok Amazon UK store.
Reebok i-Run 3: This is a compact treadmill, which is built to fold away with a slim upright profile. It has an impressive spec, with 13km / hour top speed, elastomer cushioning on the running surface and the choice of connecting your phone or using the wide LCD console. Perfect for cardio and fat burning, this popular treadmill solves the problem of not having a dedicated fitness room. Here is my detailed review – or jump to this page at amazon.co.uk for the full spec and latest pricing.
Summary: The Reebok ZR8 treadmill combines serious quality with those trademark Reebok elegant looks. You’ll find an advanced shock absorbing running surface, a fully programmable console with automatic incline as well as speed / distance settings. Best of all this model folds up, using a hydraulic system to offer ‘soft drop’ when you need to use it. There is currently a large discount on this model at amazon.co.uk – check out this dedicated product page for the full picture gallery, latest offer and feedback from current owners.
Detailed Review of the Reebok ZR8 Treadmill
The Reebok ZR8 is a big and solid treadmill. If you intend to move your treadmill around a lot then you might want to consider a lighter home model. The Zr8 does fold up (you can see a picture of it folded on the amazon.co.uk product page). The hydraulic arm makes getting it into the running position smooth and easy. With a big running surface, I was surprised to see a 120kg (almost 19 stone) top weight – it certainly looks like it could take a couple more stone, so maybe this is just the Reebok legal department being careful?
With a top speed of 16 km/hour (10 mph), this treadmill is plenty fast enough for most home users. Only the most serious athletes out there require the 20km/ hour top speed models. There is a 2 horse power motor, which has been engineered for a smooth ride. The best feature of all is the automatic incline. This can really add some burn to your runs, and is controlled via the computer – rather than manually.
That computer certainly looks impressive, fanning out over the top of the safety handrails with a lot of different buttons. This includes preset programs, and you can tailor your own program too. You will find all the regular running stats (time, speed, distance, pulse and calories) displayed. It is possible to switch from kilometers to miles too. There is Mp3 compatibility, and built in speakers. This model does not include a built-in fan.
Console and Electronics
When you first see the console unit of Reebok’s ZR8 Treadmill, it will look complex – almost to the point of overkill.
You’ll then see that most of the ‘noise’ comes from the preset runs either side of the display. These show the shape of runs in terms of intensity. Some are constantly increasing speed, others vary this in intervals – and so on.
This console is easy to use, with the buttons fanning out across the bottom in easy reach and instantly changing the speed, incline and entertainment options. The display gives you all the stats on distance, speed, time and pulse rate – all in easy to read format. Underneath the console is the red safety key. Simply attach the other end to your clothing, and it will automatically stop the belt should you fall off.
Note that the updated models (Jet 200 and Jet 300) work with running apps and maps – a big plus. That said, for everyday running, the ZR8 covers everything using the LCD displays.
What Current Owners Said About the Reebok ZR8 Treadmill
Starting with the negatives – there are only a couple of unhappy users out of a list of many happy ones. It seems one of these had a sequence of motors go, these were replaced – though he is rightly unhappy with the saga. The other complaint involved tripping a home fuse box. While I sympathize here, it does feel like an odd amount of detail in the feedback, especially coming from an electrical engineer…
Most people were very positive, and overall this treadmill has excellent reviews. Big, robust and great value appear again and again. Assembly does not seem to have caused many issues, though 2 people are needed for this.
Wrapping Up: How Does the ZR8 Treadmill from Reebok Compare?
You’ll get a lot of treadmill for a mid-range price with the Reebok ZR8 – and that distinctive Reebok style too.
While the technology is older, this does mean many people won’t be paying for fancy gimmicks that will never get used. You can track your runs, calories and pulse-rate perfectly with the console. I also like the electronic incline, cushioning tech and range of programmes for cardio, fat burning and endurance.
No wonder the ZR8 has been a best-seller for Reebok for years.
Check out the user feedback and current discount for yourself now on the amazon.co.uk product page.
Reebok Zr8 Treadmills: Full Specification
- Designed with an easy folding mechanism for convenient storage
- The Smart Zig cushioning system provies shock reduction on shins and hamstrings
- A Powerful 2.0 Horsepower motor provides a running speed of 6 to 10mph
- Treadmill inclines to 15 electronic presets for challenging uphill running
- A resourceful control panel with LED display, mp3 input, onboard speakers and volume control
- Display panel shows Speed, time, distance travelled, calories, incline setting and montiors pulse rate
- The most comprehensive workout programme with 24 preset selections and extra user designed settings
- Supports a maximum user weight of 120kg
- Measures 102 x 74 x 143cm when folded for storage.
- When in use, the treadmill measures 165 x 74 x 143cm
More Great Mid-Range Treadmills:
