| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Motor | Apps | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3G Elite Check Discounted Price | L:84" W:35.5" H:58" | 400 lbs | 4.0 CHP, 1-12 MPH | 8 | Residential: Motor: lifetime Frame: lifetime Parts: 10 years Labor: 1 year Commercial: Motor: 5 years Frame: 5 years Parts: 5 years Labor: 1 year |
As a general idea, almost any treadmill priced over the $3,000 mark is rock-solid, most models within this price range actually being rated as commercial grade. The 3G Elite Cardio Runner model falls into this category as well, actually being one of the most solid treadmills that you can get for the price.
This 3G treadmill meets all the requirements for functioning in a gym, and actually comes with two types of warranty: residential and commercial. Evidently, if you’re going to use it in your own home gym, the warranty is quite extensive, the motor and frame being lifetime covered.
As a general overview, this running machine offers the optimal training setting for users of all fitness levels. It features a really sturdy construction, and running on it offers the same feel as any other commercial treadmill. Needless to say, it has an impressive range of features and functions, and within this post we’ll put the magnifying glass on each and every one of them, providing as many details as possible.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 84L x 35.5W x 58H inches (213.4L x 90.1W x 147.3H cm)
- Tread belt dimensions: 62L x 22W inches (157.4L x 55.8W cm)
- Product weight: 386 lbs (175 kg)
- Supported weight: 400 lbs (181.4 kg)
- Motor: 4.0 HP, Continuous duty
- Incline: Automatic, 0%-15%
- Deck cushioning: Yes
- Speed levels: 0.5-12 MPH.
- Training programs: 8
- Pulse sensors: Yes
- Amenities: Chest strap, sound system, cooling fan, tablet holder, bottle/accessory holders
- Residential Warranty: Frame lifetime / Motor lifetime / Parts 10 years / Labor 2 years
- Commercial Warranty: Frame 5 years / Motor 5 years / Parts 5 years / Labor 1 year
Frame and deck
Since it’s a heavy-duty treadmill, it goes without saying that its main frame is made of thick steel tubing. All metallic parts are powder coated with scratch resistant and corrosion resistant paint.
Overall, the machine is pretty heavy, with an assembled weight of 386 lbs (175 kg), the running 
deck holding most of the machine’s weight. Due to this fact, the deck is non-folding. So, it’s a good idea to assemble it directly in the place where it should be setup for use. On the other hand, its massive weight plays an important role in the treadmill’s stability. You can be sure that it won’t rock as you run on it.
The front base of the 3G Elite Runner features caster wheels, but their main role relates to the incline mechanism, as the front base is the main incline element, and will rest on these wheels as it pushes the deck up. Even though they can also help with moving the assembled machine, it’s not the best idea to tip the treadmill on its wheels and try to move it by yourself, as the deck is extremely heavy.
The rear base features leveling feet, with rubber caps, which help maximize the deck’s stability.
The 3G Elite Cardio Runner has a rather extensive footprint. It takes 84″L x 35.5″W (213.4 x 90.1 cm) of floor space, requiring at least 1′ (30.4 cm) of clearance on each side, and 3′ (91.4 cm) at the rear for the proper safety. The distance between the handlebars is 28.5″ (72.3 cm) at their ends, narrowing at 26.5″ (67.3 cm) near the controls. This makes the interior quite a bit wider than the running belt itself, offering enough space to eliminate any hinderance for the user.
The running surface is pretty spacious, being actually a few inches longer and wider than the average treadbelt required for running. At 62″L x 22″W (157.4L x 55.8W cm) it provides a running surface comfortable for taller users as well. For example, a user up to 6’6′-6’7″ (198 – 201 cm) tall, should not feel cramped or hindered in any way, even when running on the highest speed setting.
The deck incorporates a heavy-duty, 2-ply running belt, highly resistant to stretching. It also features 3″ rollers, with enclosed ball bearings, designed to last for up to 10 years, even if the machine is used daily for at least 6 hours.
One last important aspect to mention regarding the 3G Elite’s deck regards its suspension system. It incorporates the commercial Ortho Flex Shock cushioning, considerably diminishing the impact on each foot strike, rendering a much comfortable running feel than on concrete or asphalt. Also, since it uses an orthopedic belt, vibration during each foot strike, and the sound of cadence, are also considerably lower.
Incline
The 3G Elite Cardio Runner features a motorized, automatic incline system. As we’ve mentioned above, the main active element that produces the incline is actually the front base of the treadmill. The rear part of this base lifts up as incline is increased, the base resting on the front caster 
wheels.
The maximum incline is not extreme as in other commercial treadmills, and that’s actually the main reason some would consider this treadmill only a light commercial one. However, it does provide a maximum incline of 15% (cca 10°), which considerably increases the workout spectrum. Actually, at maximum incline, and a speed setting of 10 MPH+, a non-professional runner shouldn’t be able to last more than several minutes.
At 0% incline, the running surface gives you an elevation of 8″ (20.3 cm). Incline should also add a couple more inches. Therefore, in order to determine the required ceiling height for you to safely use this treadmill, you should add at least 15″ (38 cm) to your own height.
Evidently, since incline is motorized, it can only be adjusted via the machine’s console. Adjustments are made in increments of 1%.
Motor
The deck of a treadmill is not the only element that indicates the machine’s maximum user capacity. Its motor should also be able to withstand the amount of stress generated by the user’s weight, cadence and training. The good news is that the 3G Elite Runner is equipped with a 4.0 HP motor, made for continuous duty, and being able to support users up to 400 lbs, for prolonged workout sessions.
This treadmill has a speed range between 0.5 and 12 MPH, a satisfactory speed range for users of all levels. It can be adjusted in increments of 0.1 and 0.5, but there are also direct keys for several speed settings. Evidently, transition to a selected speed setting doesn’t happen abruptly, giving the runner that possibility to adjust their pace.
This 3G treadmill is listed with a power draw of 15 amp, but its realistic draw is somewhere between 10-12 amp. It requires to be connected to a 110V power circuit, and has an American standard plug.
Console and amenities
The console equipped on the 3G Elite treadmill features 3 displays which indicate different values. The top display indicates incline, calories, calories/h, time, speed, distance, pace and Mets. In case you’re wondering, the Mets value represents how much harder your body is working than if it 
were at rest. The bigger monitor to the left offers the grid for adjusting incline and speed within a workout program. The smaller display to the right dedicates to heart rate.
There are 8 preset workout programs on board, including Manual, Course, Goal, Fit Test, Fat Burn, Aerobic, Custom and Body Index. Some of them have multiple settings though. For example, there are 8 Courses under the Course tab, 2 programs under the Fit Test and 2 Custom program profiles.
If using a certain course, the treadmill will automatically adjust incline and speed, according to the selected course. The Custom user profiles actually give you the possibility to create and save your own courses. With the Goal function you can setup goals for time, calories and distance for your daily workout, while the Manual mode allows you to freely control incline and speed as you exercise. Of course, the heart rate programs focus on establishing your fitness level and offer you a safe HR interval for your workouts.
Speaking of heart rate, the transversal grip of the treadmil includes pulse sensors. However, the console can also read your heart rate wirelessly, via the included HR chest strap transmitter.
The treadmill’s dashboard actually integrates several other amenities. It has a sound system compatible with most MP3 or smart devices and a USB charging port. The top part hosts a 2-speed cooling fan, while the lower part is molded into two bottle/accessory holders. The dashboard also includes a tablet holder.
Last but not least, the whole console is pretty easy and straightforward to use. Each training program has its own direct access key. Speed and incline have direct keys for 2-4-6-8 and respectively 2-3-4-6-8, but they can also be gradually adjusted via +/- keys. The console also offers keys for the control of your MP3 device. It includes a Pause button which gives you the possibility to interrupt your workout if it’s the case, without losing your accumulated data. And of course, it includes a safety magnetic key.
Assembly and Maintenance
Although the assembly process of the machine is not complicated, it’s rather problematic, as the machine is really heavy. It requires at least two people to carry and assemble, and it’s for the best to assembly it in the exact place where it’s supposed to be used.
The runner’s deck is already assembled. All you have to do is attach the left and right console masts, the handlebars and side covers, and then connect the console. The whole assembly shouldn’t take longer than 30 minutes. Tools and manual are included.
Just as any other treadmill, maintenance requires the periodical lubrication of the running belt. This requires 100% pure liquid silicone lubricant, which is also provided. Typically, with home use it requires lubrication once every 4-6 months, while with commercial use lubrication may be needed monthly. The treadbelt should also be kept clean and wiped with a damp cloth weekly.
The Pros
- Extremely sturdy piece of equipment;
- Able to support users up to 400 lbs;
- Spacious running surface;
- Heavy-duty, orthopedic tread belt;
- Cushioned deck;
- Motorized incline with a 0%-15% range;
- Continuous duty motor, with 4.0 HP;
- Speeds for all range of users, from 0.5 to 12 MPH;
- Numerous amenities, including sound system, cooling fan, accessory holders and media tray;
- Pulse sensors;
- Telemetry enabled console, and HR chest strap transmitter included;
- 8 main workout programs, some of them having multiple levels and options;
- Easy assembly;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty package.
The Cons
- Really heavy machine;
- No online connectivity.
Overall
The 3G Cardio Elite Runner is a light commercial treadmill, but one of the models with a high user capacity, a well-constructed, durable deck, and a high performance motor. It’s definitely not one of the cheapies, but it’s safe to say that its quality exceeds the price. It offers an impressive array of features, and offers training possibilities to cover the athletic needs of just about any runner. Whether you want it for walking, jogging, running, interval training, cardio training or weight loss, the 3G Elite Runner has what it takes to help you achieve your athletic goals.