When it comes to running-friendly treadmills, there aren’t that many out there that can fit the bill. Horizon aims to change the game with their 7.0 AT Treadmill, a device truly built for the home running fanatic.
Is the Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill any good? The Horizon 7.0 AT is a solid treadmill for under $1,000 and features a solid weight capacity and a durable build that makes it a good choice for running. Although it’s missing some of the modern tech that gym machines come with these days, it delivers as a reliable and supportive platform for running and walking.
If you’ve been checking out the Horizon as a potential new workout machine but want to know the truth before you do, this review covers all of the basics. We’ll look at pros and cons, compatibility, and special features, giving you everything you need to make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
The Key Specs
The best way to see what a treadmill has to offer is by looking at its key specifications, and although the Horizon 7.0 AT isn’t the flashiest on the market, it still brings plenty to the table. Choosing this treadmill will get you at-home access to the following in your workout machine:
- A generous sized machine measuring 200 x 76 x 30cm and with an overall weight of 115kgs;
- 0 continuous duty horsepower motor for impressive power and speeds and 120v – 60Hz power supply;
- Johnson Digital Drive System for smooth and responsive operation;
- Rapid Sync Technology that ensures your machine moves along in sync without lagging during fast paced workout programs and interval changes;
- Large running deck measuring over 152cms in length and with cushioning for absolute support;
- Built-in Bluetooth speakers allowing you to connect to your choice of media;
- USB port for rapid charging and device holder for your smartphone, and compatibility with a range of fitness apps;
- Incline range of 0-15% to change the difficulty of your workout and .8km – 19km per hour speed adjustability;
- Easy storage using the one step hydraulic folding so you can store your treadmill when it’s not in use;
Built In Workout Programs
The Horizon AT 7.0 Treadmill comes with a handful of built in workout programs for you to utilize, as this seems to be an exercise machine that’s more about the third party experience. For those users who don’t want to use their smartphone or smart TV as part of a workout, you’ll still be able to do a lot with your AT 7.0.
You’ll get access to seven different workout programs built into this machine, including a 5K run, calorie burner, and maximum heart rate session. They’re a lot of fun and provide a challenge but if you’re hoping for a treadmill that can keep you engaged for years to come without relying on another app or service, this one might not be the best.
Fitness App Compatibility
Where the Horizon Fitness AT 7.0 Treadmill tries to stand out from the competition app compatibility, bringing the usability and possibilities of the machine onto a whole new level. First, you’ll get access to the free, no-subscription app that Horizon Fitness has developed that lets you control all aspects of your workout and view your stats if you’d rather not use the integrated display.
Secondly, you can push the data that you develop on this machine to other apps on your phone, including diet and fitness trackers. If you do plan on using third-party apps and coaching sessions during a workout, you’ll be able to connect them using the Bluetooth integration and hear everything through the built-in speakers of the AT 7.0 Treadmill, but it won’t be fully automated on your machine.
Another great thing about this treadmill and its app compatibility is that the buttons and settings are easy to adjust at lightning speed. As you’re following along with a group workout or training session, you can press the one-touch speed and incline keys to adjust yourself to where you need to be. This does make it a little easier to do the manual adjustments yourself as you complete a workout.
The Pros of the Horizon 7.0
With thousands of happy customers around the globe, it’s easy to see all of the good points that the Horizon Fitness treadmill has to offer. These are some of its best features that make it even better value for money:
- Large running deck
If you’ve ever struggled with feeling like you’re going to fall off a treadmill and it’s prevented you from going as hard as you could, the problem is solved with the AT 7.0. The oversized deck measures around 150 x 50cms and has plenty of space for walking and running. Plus, it’s got ample cushioning to provide a low impact workout no matter how hard you’re going.
- Increased weight capacity and durability
This machine has a much higher weight capacity than others in this price range and even those well above it. The Horizon Fitness AT 7.0 Treadmill can hold up to 147kgs comfortably so it suits more types of users. If you’re at the start of your workout journey and want to know you have a machine that’ll be with you the whole way, this one is it.
- Smooth operation
The Horizon 7.0 runs smoothly without a glitch no matter how many times you change the settings or how fast you plan on running, thanks to the Johnson Digital Drive System it’s been constructed with. As well as being smooth in operation, it’s also quiet, providing you with a discreet workout machine you can use at home without disrupting the family.
- Extra features
There are plenty of features in this treadmill that make it worth choosing and put in a league of its own. You’ll get a tablet holder, built-in speakers, integrated fan, hand grip heart rate monitor, and display screen, so it looks and feels just like a commercial-grade machine you’d find at the gym.
- Affordability
It’s rare these days to find a treadmill under $1,000 that has all the basic features and offers a powerful motor and durable build. There’s no need to spend a few thousand dollars just to get a workout machine like one you’d find at the gym, because this has all of the quality where it counts.
- Ease of use
This treadmill is so simple to use and even if you’ve never owned a workout machine before, it won’t intimidate you. The settings can be adjusted with one touch, there are basic programs to follow, and it sets up relatively easy with most people reporting assembly time taking less than an hour.
Potential Drawbacks of the Treadmill
As with any treadmill, there are some drawbacks that lost the Horizon Fitness AT 7.0 points. Consider these potential negative points that might turn you off from using this workout machine at home:
- Quiet speakers
The integrated Bluetooth speakers sound like an impressive thing but when you hear how loud the volume gets, it’s not that great. Some people found that they kept their smartphone or TV on rather than use the treadmill because the noise of the machine ended up drowning out whatever it was they were listening to.
- Smaller screen
The seven-inch display on this treadmill is nothing to write home about, and you’re probably better off using a tablet in the integrated holder than bothering with it. Having something this small means you’re spending time trying to focus on the screen and not your workout, so it can feel like more of a hindrance than a help.
- Lack of compatibility with apps
This treadmill works with many of the popular fitness apps, but it’s not as integrated or interactive as you might think. Although you can play the media from most of the apps through the Bluetooth speakers, it won’t automatically adjust the settings for you. Finding out which apps this treadmill works with is also challenging as there seems to be no definitive list from Horizon Fitness at the time of publishing.
- Some glitches
There were a few reported issues with the technical parts of the Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill, but none so major that they affected the use of the machine. The biggest complaint was to do with the headphone jack that some people found unresponsive at times, so if you plan on using headphones to hear your workout or watch your favourite TV show, you’ll need to be aware of this issue.
Warranty and Manufacturer Guarantee
Any time you spend big on a fitness machine, you want to feel that peace of mind that your investment is protected. Thankfully, the Horizon Treadmill delivers on this front with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, three year warranty on parts, and one year on labour, with the hopes that you’ll never have to use any of them.
In addition to their solid warranty coverage, Horizon Fitness also guarantees full satisfaction for their customers. If you purchase any of their products, including the 7.0 AT Treadmill, and don’t love it, you can return it for a full refund or offer you a credit for another machine. This extra level of protection takes some of the risks out of buying a treadmill for home and making such a big investment.
The Final Say
The market for quality treadmills under $1,000 can be pretty bleak at times, but the Horizon 7.0 AT manages to stand out from the crowd. Although marketed as a runner’s dream, its stable, large, and cushioned deck is perfect for any physical condition and whatever you plan on using the treadmill for.
This treadmill had some setbacks in terms of app compatibility, but if you use these types of interactive workouts and don’t mind making manual adjustments of incline and speed, it won’t be a bother. The key thing is the quality and stability of the Horizon 7.0 and it’s clear from the cushioned, spacious running deck to the durable frame that it’s made with care.
Horizon Fitness has carved a name for itself in the affordable, quality home workout equipment market and it’s easy to see why. They offer solid warranties, all the features you could ask for, and a well-made machine that will clearly stand the test of time with their 7.0 AT Treadmill.
- CONNECT: Quick and easy app connectivity. Stream fitness classes, movies, and music via Bluetooth connection. Integrated device rest securely holds your phone or tablet. A rapid-charge USB port keeps your device powered. No subscription required!
- BUILT FOR HOME WORKOUT PERFORMANCE: 60-inch belt and 3-zone Variable Response Cushioning for flex and support in all phases of your stride. Max user weight is 325 pounds, with assembled dimensions of 76.5" x 36" x 59".
- PRECISION CONTROL: Experience fast, smooth transitions between intervals using QuickDial controls to simplify adjustments without breaking your stride. Speed range from 0.5 – 12 mph and an incline range from 0 – 15% so you can walk, jog, or run.
- PROGRAM CHOICES: Get on and go at your own pace with a Manual workout program or select a pre-programmed 5K, Calorie, Distance, Fat Burn, Hill Climb, or Max Heart Rate workout. Monitor it all on the 7" LCD screen.
- RESPONSIVE DRIVE SYSTEM: Highly responsive Rapid Sync performance drive system delivers faster speed and incline changes, perfect for interval training. Enjoy a smooth, efficient workout.
Last update on 2022-07-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Related Questions
Before you jump into a brand new treadmill, it pays to learn all that you can about the market. We’ve answered some commonly asked questions that might give you a better understanding of shopping for a new treadmill, so check out our expert advice.
Are Treadmills Dangerous?
Treadmills can be dangerous when used incorrectly so you should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and never leave a child around one unattended. The potential injuries caused by a treadmill include friction burns, falls, and abrasions, with more serious incidents even causing amputation.
What Size Treadmill Do I Need?
A treadmill should be chosen based on its suitability for your height and weight, with most manufacturers listing the maximum weight capacity to consider. In regards to height, it depends on how you’ll be using it, with a treadmill around 127cm in length suitable for walking on and up to 150cm in length for running on.
How Much Does a Good Treadmill Typically Cost?
A good quality treadmill will cost upwards of $500 with the commercial-quality models ranging upwards of a few thousand dollars. For a home workout, you should aim to spend around $1,000 for a treadmill that will last for years, have the latest features, and be comfortable and supportive enough to run and walk on.
Resources
https://www.treadmillreviews.net/horizon-7-0-at/
https://www.fitrated.com/treadmills/horizon-fitness-7-0-at-review/
https://the-home-gym.com/the-horizon-7-0-at-treadmill-a-review
