| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Belt dimensions | Motor | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Assault AirRunner Check Discounted Price | L:69.9" W:32.8" H:64" | 350 lbs | L:62.2" W:17.1" | N/A | 11 programs, Bluetooth |
The AirRunner is one of the fitness machines released by Assault Fitness in 2017 and still is one of the highest-rated treadmills today. It’s a non-motorized (manual) treadmill offering superior sturdiness and a considerably different construction than the average motorized treadmill. It’s not exactly one of the most affordable machines but definitely offers excellent value for the price.
Key Features and Specification
- Assembled dimensions: 69.9L x 32.8W x 64H inches (177.5 x 83.3 x 162.6 cm)
- Belt dimensions: 62.2L x 17.1W (158 x 43.4 cm)
- Assembled weight: 280 lbs (127 kg)
- User weight limit: 350 lbs (158.7 kg)
- Incline: N/A
- Motor: N/A
- Performance monitor: 3 interval programs, 3 target programs, 4 heart rate programs, 1 comp program, Bluetooth
- Warranty: Frame 5 years / Parts 3 years
Frame construction
The Assault AirRunner is constructed on a heavy-duty steel frame. The base frame is made of rectangular steel
tubing but most of it is concealed by the large side covers. The two upright bars feature an oval design while the handlebar assembly is cylindrical. All the steel parts in the machine’s construction are double-coated with a corrosion-resistance and chip-resistant paint finish.
The unit’s side covers are made of heavy-duty thermoplastic material. Just like the belt, and the whole deck, they are rated for a maximum user weight limit of 350 lbs (127 kg). Also, their surface is textured for improved footing.
Although it may seem smaller than the average electric treadmill, the Assault AirRunner still is a fairly large fitness machine. It is approx. 69.9″ (177.5 cm) long, and 32.8″ (83.3 cm) wide. Plus, it is recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance on each side of the deck, and at least three feet of clearance at its rear for ease of access and safe usage.
This treadmill is also very heavy. Its net weight is approx. 280 lbs (127 kg). Therefore, the transport of the packaged unit requires at least two people. But on the other hand, once the machine is fully assembled, it can be relocated by only one person. Its front base features a set of transport wheels while its rear base integrates a lifting handle. Also, its rear base is equipped with two adjustable levelers with large base pads.
One last aspect to mention here is that the AirRunner treadmill does not have a folding frame. Its upright bars and handlebar assembly do not fold, and the deck cannot be stored vertically.
Deck and belt construction
First of all, the Assault AirRunner is not an electric treadmill; it does not need an external power source, 
power cord, or adapter. The belt is powered exclusively by the user. It also does not have an incline system and the position of the deck cannot be adjusted.
The AirRunner treadmill is equipped with a heavy-duty slat belt. Each segment of the belt is metal-reinforced and has a thick rubber coating with a textured surface for an improved grip. Assault Fitness actually rates this belt for an outstanding durability of 150,000 miles.
The machine’s belt offers a running surface of 62.2″ (158 cm) long, and 17.1″ (43.4 cm) wide. This being said, it should be able to accommodate users up to 6’6″ (198 cm) with no problem, allowing a complete stride and leg extension. Also, as we’ve mentioned above, the treadmill is rated for a maximum weight capacity of 350 lbs (158.7 kg) which needless to say applies to the belt as well.
The front and rear rollers integrated into the deck assembly feature two V-groove wheels each. The belt has two internal tracks which pass through the grooves of the rollers’ wheels for maximum stability. Plus, the deck has 50 sealed bearings and 6 guide pulleys on each side (100 + 12 in total) which not only that keep the slat belt perfectly tracked and stable, they also provide a very smooth motion, with almost no friction.
The deck doesn’t have a cushioning system like other treadmills. However, due to the curved design, and the slightly higher front section, the drop of each footstrike is minimal. This considerably reduces the impact on your joints and back. It also provides a natural and more comfortable motion than a treadmill with a standard flat running surface.
The machine’s deck is also pretty high above floor level compared to a motorized treadmill. At its highest point, the belt is at approx. 18″ (45.7 cm) above ground, while at the lowest point (the mid-section area) is at approx. 13″ (33 cm) above ground. Therefore, it is recommended to use this treadmill in a room with a ceiling that is at least 25″ (63.5 cm) higher than your own height.
Console
The Assault Fitness AirRunner includes a console similar in terms of features to the one available with 
the Assault Air Bike. To begin with, it has an LCD display divided into 7 sub-sections. It tracks time, calories, distance, speed, watts, pace, and pulse. Speed and distance can be set either to metric or to English units. The heart rate reading only works if you use a wireless HR chest strap (Bluetooth or ANT). This accessory is not included.
The console makes available several workout programs. Each program category has its own quick-access key on the right side of the unit. There are 3 interval programs, 3 target programs, 4 heart rate programs, and 1 COMP program.
The interval program category offers 2 pre-set programs and one custom program. The first two are pre-set for 20/10 (20 sec. work, 10 sec. rest) and 10/20 (10 sec. work, 20 sec. rest). Each one of these two programs has 8 intervals. The Custom interval program works in the same way but offers the possibility to set up the desired timer for both the work duration and rest duration.
The target programs offer the possibility to select workout goals for time, distance, and calories burned. If a target is selected for any of these, the console will count down from the selected value until it reaches zero. It also has an alarm to notify you when you have completed one of your goals.
From the four heart rate programs, three are pre-set for 65%, 75%, and 85% of the maximum BPM, while the fourth is Custom, allowing you to select the desired HR percentage. Evidently, in order to use one of these programs, you will need to wear a wireless HR chest strap (not included). When one of the HR programs is in use, the console will count your pulse and prompt you to increase your pace if you’re below the selected HR percentage, and decrease your pace if you exceed it.
The COMP program is similar to the target programs. You will have to set a goal for time, distance, and calories. However, if you select a goal for time, only time will count down, while the other metrics will count up. If distance or calories are selected as targets, the timer will count up.
The console is battery-powered. It requires four AA batteries which are included. It starts up when it detects belt movement or when you press one of the buttons. It also automatically turns off after approx. 30 minutes of inactivity on the machine.
Last but not least, the bottom keypad of the console creates a small shelf that can serve as a device holder. However, there are no AUX or USB ports for data transfer.
Assembly and Maintenance
The machine’s running deck comes pre-assembled. You only need to attach the two side upright bars, their bottom covers, the handlebar, and connect the console. This shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. All the necessary tools for the task are included and the manual provides very clear step-by-step instructions.
For maintenance, it is recommended to keep the machine clean, especially the belt, to prevent any textile fiber or debris to damage the inner wheels. The inner bearings are pre-lubricated from the factory and they shouldn’t need additional lubrication for a long period of time. However, if the belt begins making noises, lubrication with silicone oil may be necessary.
The Pros
- Heavy-duty construction – can support users up to 350 lbs;
- Superior stability;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Lifting handle on the rear base;
- Energy-saving, environment-friendly fitness machine;
- Durable slat belt rated for 150,000 miles of use;
- Bearing tracks (50 ball bearings on each side) for a smooth belt motion and superior belt stability;
- Curved running surface for a natural motion and reduced running impact;
- Multi-function console – it tracks time, distance, pace, speed, calories, pulse, and watts;
- 11 workout programs available – 3 interval, 3 target, 4 heart rate, and 1 comp;
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless heart rate reading;
- Device holder integrated into the console;
- Batteries for the console are included;
- Little assembly required;
- All the assembly tools are included;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty and customer support.
The Cons
- No backlight on the console;
- Heart rate chest strap is not included.
Summary
The Assault Fitness AirRunner is a heavy-duty non-motorized treadmill offering commercial quality and sturdiness. It features a curved running surface with a slat belt for a low-impact ride. Its inner tracks integrate 50 bearings each being designed to deliver a very smooth belt motion. It also includes a HIIT console with 11 workout programs and Bluetooth connectivity. In all, it’s a treadmill for users of all levels, great for both low and high-intensity cardio workouts, interval training, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss.