LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill vs Sole F80 Treadmill
The LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill and the Sole F80 Treadmill have a lot in common. Both carry similar price tags, feature a folding design and include a bright LCD display that tracks time, distance and calories. With high ratings and generous deck sizes, both treadmills have a lot to offer the average runner.
LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill Specifications:
Average Price: $1499.99
Product Dimensions: 33 x 54 x 71 inches
Belt Size: 20 x 56 inches
Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor; 3 years on parts; 1 year on labor
Power: 2.5-horsepower
Sole F80 Treadmill Specifications:
Average Price: $1999.99
Product Dimensions: 33 x 80 inches
Belt Size: 20 x 60 inches
Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor; 5 years on belt, rollers and electronics; 2 years on labor
Power: 3.0-horsepower
LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill and Sole F80 Features
LCD Console
The LifeSpan TR 1200i includes a multi-colored LCD display that tracks time, distance, calories, steps, heart rate, speed and incline level. The keys are large and easy to press, the console can handle simultaneous readouts and there are 17 programs to toggle through. The console also includes a headphone jack for listening to your iPod as well as the Intelli-Step pedometer for counting steps. What’s most unique is that you can save your workout progress to a USB port, then upload the information to your personal LifeSpan Fitness Club account.
The Sole F80 includes a 7.5-inch LCD console that has windows for tracking speed, incline, distance, time, calories, pulse and pace. The display has added versatility in that it features a ¼-mile track and peak-and-valley graph that allows you to monitor progress during specific workout programs. As an added bonus, the console has an integrated sound system so that you can listen to your iPod or MP3 player. When you’ve completed the workout, be sure to check the message board that will indicate your progress from one workout to the next. The same message board comes in handy when you need to be walked through the treadmill’s features or workout programs.
Workout Programs
The LifeSpan TR 1200i offers a variety of unique programs that center on weight loss, healthy living, sports training and monitoring heart rate. There are 17 pre-set programs and 20 segments within each that vary based on speed and incline. If there’s a workout program you love, add it using the two custom programs. Here you can set the speed and incline level and save them for future use. There is also the My Zone heart rate control program that monitors your heart rate.
The Sole F80 offers fewer programs than the LifeSpan. It has six standard workouts, two custom workouts and two heart rate-controlled workouts. The custom and heart rate programs work in the same way as the LifeSpan. For the custom program, simply enter in the program for future use based on speed and incline level. For the heart rate program, work out while keeping your heart rate in the target zone. As an added bonus, the Sole F80 includes a wireless chest strap for heart rate monitoring that has a 99.9 percent accuracy rating.
Durability
The LifeSpan TR 1200i is a durable machine that allows you to control your speed and incline without having to remove your hands from the handlebars. With 2.5-horsepower, a sound deck suspension system that supports 300 pounds and a generous 20-by-56 running surface, you’ll find the LifeSpan to be comfortable and high-performance, reasons why the treadmill earned itself several awards from Treadmill Doctor and Fitness Professor. The side rails are made from nonslip plastic, the two-ply belt is sturdy and the folding system utilizes the EZ Drop system.
The Sole F80 gets the shining star in terms of durability. The treadmill has a powder-coated, all-steel welded frame and super sturdy inclines. The treadmill is very quiet thanks to its steel zinc-coated flywheel and Cushion Flex deck. There is 3.0-horsepower packed into the treadmill, and the Cushion Flex deck provides the utmost comfort and stability, with reduced impact of up to 40 percent compared to running on asphalt. The frame can support 350 pounds, and the belt is two-ply and double woven for supreme durability
How Does the LifeSpan TR 1200i and the Sole F80 Treadmills Compare?
Both treadmills have been highlighted for their features, durability and range of programs. The Sole F80 is a bit more expensive, but offers more horsepower, supports more weight and has a very durable frame made from steel. The treadmill also includes a chest strap for tracking your heart rate, has the exclusive Cushion Flex deck that reduces impact and provides a better warranty
On the flip side, the LifeSpan has the unique fitness account where all exercise information can be uploaded to a personal account. There are also more programs to choose from and more possibilities in terms of controlling the speed and incline throughout each program. Both treadmills have the same speed – 0.5 to 11 miles per hour – and 15 levels of incline. Each treadmill is an excellent buy and won’t leave runners disappointed thanks to their user-friendly features. Best of all, both treadmills fold up for less space.
