Ironman Treadmills - For The Guy Who Does The Ironing
Ironman Treadmills are produced by Keys Fitness Products, which also produces Keys, Alliance, Discovery, Healthtrainer, and Encore treadmills. Ironman treadmill models are in two series, the newer Ironman T Series and the substantial Ironman M Series.
The Ironman Triad, a very recent model made exclusively for Costco, the discount retailer, combines features of both machines.
The two Ironman Series include models more suited for general fitness and health conditioning, like the t150, t220, t320 and the m2, m3, and m4, but they also include heavy weight machines like the m5, which, like the other models listed, folds away, and the m6, which has a conventional frame for greater stability in training.
Ironman prices its treadmills from under $1000 to around $2000.
A Full Range Of Choices
The Ironman Triad treadmill has the modern design of the T Series but shares features with the M5, judged a Best Buy in at least one online review.
Its weight capacity is that of the M5, 375 lbs, but its motor--3.0CHP, maximum speed (10MPH), Touch Button controls, remote controls, heart rate monitoring and control, and number of preset, customized, and heart rate programs, fifteen, are all like the M6.
Unlike the rest of the M Series which incline to 12%, however, the Triad inclines to only 10%.
The Triad running surface actually exceeds that of the M6 in length at 60".
Ironman treadmill models carry a warranty that covers for lifetime on the frame, 10-years on the motor, two-years on parts and one-year on labor.
The Ironman Triad sells for about $1400, occasionally discounted by Costco.
Those who review treadmills generally rate Ironman very good.
See Consumer Reports review in January 2005 for a look at the M4, and some point out the excellent value found in the M5, see the TreadmillDoctor.
More information and reviews on a full range of leading treadmills can be found at Best Treadmill Guide