Golds Gym Treadmills may conjure up pictures of the famous Gold's Gym - in reality, the brand is a discount line manufactured by ICON Health and Fitness.
ICON is the largest fitness equipment manufacturer in the world. They also own brands like Reebok, Image, Epic, Weslo and Proform.
This explains why many Gold Gym treadmills look very similar to Proform or Image treadmills.
Strengths:
Unlike a few years ago when there was essentially only 1 Gold's Gym treadmill you could buy, there are now several ranging from $400 up to $1500.
So the variety is better. Since they're very similar to Proform models, you can get some of the same 'bells and whistles' as these brands offer.
For example the Maxx Crosswalk 650 comes with upper body arm bars (similar to those found on elliptical trainers) to work your upper body.
Weaknesses:
These treadmills are not nearly as popular or as well known as other ICON brands. They may look very similar to a Proform. However the warranties are not as long - which could cost you in the long run.
For example, many Proform treadmills come with a lifetime frame and motor warranty, various years on parts and 1 year on labor, which is pretty decent.
As of this writing, the Gold's Gym 1500 treadmill only offered 1 year on the frame and 20 years on the motor. This is not a great warranty and doesn't give you as much protection.
Another thing you may notice is that Golds Gym Treadmills have risen in price lately. This is a bit surprising since they don't give you as much warranty coverage - and they certainly haven't won any 'Best Buy' awards.
Conclusion: Not Recommended
Gold's Gym treadmills offer more in terms of pricing and treadmill options now than they have in the past. However considering they are very similar to Proform models - many of which offer longer warranty protection, you may want to consider a Proform instead.
Proform offers better prices for virtually the same machines. Plus you get better warranty coverage and even some extra toys thrown in.
Another option around the same price point is Nordic Track - another brand that offers long warranties and the latest fitness toys like TV's, WiFi capability, iPod ports and downloadable workouts.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
If you really like the Gold's Gym name, you can buy the latest models direct from the ICON discount warehouse - which goes under the name of Workout Warehouse.
They're currently offering Free Shipping on all their Gold's Gym treadmills.
