Why We Like It: As a devoted Peloton enthusiast, the benefits of the Tread Plus are hard to overlook. The opportunity to engage in walking, running, and hiking classes from the comfort of home on a spacious 23.8-inch screen with beloved instructors is a game-changer. This machine is not just about getting your steps in; it allows you to take advantage of its steep 15% incline for power walking and interval training, which is ideal for those of us with knee or joint issues. By focusing on the posterior chain—the muscles along the back of your body—you can enhance strength while minimizing strain.
The touchscreen interface is familiar territory for anyone who has used the Peloton Bike, presenting clear metrics and data that keep you informed during your sessions. I particularly appreciated the ability to set pace targets ahead of time, allowing me to define “brisk” and “recovery” speeds tailored to each workout. The variety offered in classes is immense, and handy filters enable you to sift through options based on instructor, workout length, class type, music, difficulty level, and pace targets. For those looking for a full-body workout, bootcamp classes that combine running with strength training add a fantastic dimension.
Sound quality is another standout feature; the volume is excellent, and the custom control over the music-to-voice ratio enhances the workout experience. Users report feeling stable while using the treadmill, thanks to its 37-inch tread width—a nice bonus, especially for larger athletes. The Tread Plus provides ample space compared to the standard Tread, making your running experience more comfortable. Plus, there’s a generously sized accessories tray that securely holds your phone, water bottle, and anything else you might need during a workout.
One intriguing feature is the Peloton IQ movement tracker, which incorporates hands-free voice commands. While it can be helpful for those who favor a camera-based monitoring system during strength training, it may present some glitches. However, it’s worth noting that Peloton instructors excel at correcting form and providing tips, even without physical oversight. The swivel screen on both the Plus and the standard Tread allows you to join workouts without the camera focusing on you if that’s your preference.
Who It’s Best For: The Tread Plus suits active Peloton aficionados who routinely engage in running, walking, hiking, or race training—often in conjunction with strength training or other fitness activities. It’s an ideal fit for households that have ample room dedicated to exercise, like a basement or garage. This machine caters to busy, goal-oriented individuals who thrive on motivation at home and appreciate the variety of fitness options and classes available through Peloton.
Moreover, the Tread Plus allows subscribers to stream content from services like Disney Plus, YouTube, and Kindle via Peloton Entertainment, making it multifaceted beyond just workouts. Though the Peloton IQ feature isn’t fully optimized for tracking form during running or walking on the Tread Plus, it remains a valuable asset for automated form correction, rep counting, and recommended weights for various classes.
Who Shouldn’t Get It: The Tread Plus may not be the best choice for individuals who favor non-guided fitness or prefer self-paced workouts with their own music or audiobooks. Athletes who enjoy running outdoors or at the gym may find other equipment more suitable, particularly if they are reluctant to pay the extra $50 monthly membership fee for the all-access fitness app.
This treadmill might also be a poor fit for households with limited space. Weighing in at 460 pounds, it’s not easily movable, especially compared to the standard Tread at 286 pounds. Consequently, ample space around the machine is essential for fully utilizing Peloton IQ features effectively.
Additionally, runners who lean towards physical buttons for speed and incline adjustments could struggle with the turning knobs. Remembering whether to roll the knobs forward or backward to change speed or incline can be a learning curve. While it works well for larger jumps (for instance, from 12% to 1% incline), it may take practice to master those subtle 0.5 increments.
