Compact Treadmill Review - Horizon Evolve SG

One of the more common concerns of treadmill purchasers is space. Horizon, known for their inventiveness and forward-thinking mindset, has created the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill to address this concern. This treadmill was designed specifically for those who have limit space available, but want the convenience of an in-home treadmill. This type of treadmill does not come without compromises though. Let's take a look at the features of the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill:

Lightweight - The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill, weighs only 99lbs. This makes it very easy to transport on its wheels. Due to its weight and portability, users can expect to make some sacrifices in the sturdiness. Many folding treadmills weigh upwards of 250 pounds. The Horizon Evolve SG concedes a few levels of stability to these larger, more robust treadmills.

Compact- This model was specifically designed to be stored vertically, against a wall, in a closet, or flat under a bed. The folded thickness is only 10 inches compared to many other folding treadmills that have a folded thickness over 2 feet. And many of these "folding" treadmills do not have the ability to be folded flat.

Small Motor - At 1.5 CHP, the treadmill's motor is not the most powerful on the market, but offers smooth acceleration and deceleration, and can be stopped using the easily accessible safety key. With a small motor and a belt speed of 1-6 mph, the treadmill is ideal for casual use.

Walking Surface - When unfolded, the Horizon Evolve SG Compact has a 17" x 45" surface, which is not very wide. Most treadmills have at least a 20" width and at least a 54" length. Based on the dimensions, this treadmill is best suited for someone 5'9" and under. Another downside with this treadmill is the inability to incline.

Easy Assembly - One of the biggest advantages of this model's light weight is the fact that purchasers will not have to labor through a lengthy assembly process. The Horizon Evolve SG Compact arrives fully assembled. All the buyer has to do is take it out the box, unfold it, and plug it into a power source.

Heart Rate Monitor - There is a thumb pulse heart rate monitoring system, located on the panel that will watch over your heartbeat as you are doing your exercise. Unfortunately, the treadmill is not compatible with wireless monitors, but you do not have the ability to use a chest strap monitor.

MP3 Player and Speakers - The Audio-In jack is compatible with CD/MP3 players. Once you connect the CD or the MP3 player, sound is emitted from the 2 speakers, which are 2-watt, located on the console.

Standard Programs - The Horizon Evolve SG Compact only offers two programs, manual and weight loss. Manual is a program with time-based goals (maximum 99 minutes). You manually change speed during the workout. The weight loss program includes a warm up and cool down period, the basic elements in any treadmill workout. The workout is limited to 30 minutes and 4mph speed.

Horizon Evolve SG Compact is one of the more popular compact models, but I must reiterate that you are sacrificing power and sturdiness for a compact design and mobility. If space is not a limitation, I highly recommend looking into purchasing a heavier treadmill with a larger walking space, and powerful motor.