Bowflex T7 Treadmill

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Incline	Motor	Console
Bowflex T7 Check Discounted Price	L:84.6" W:36.3" H:55.2"	375 lbs	Automatic, 0 % to 15%	4.0 HP, 0-12 MPH	7" display, Wireless connectivity, Multiple apps, Multiple pre-set programs

The Bowflex T7 is one of the treadmills released in 2020. Although it’s a machine made for home use, it definitely has the sturdiness and range of features of at least a light-commercial model. It’s similar in terms of features to the Bowflex T10 model that we’ve already covered here. However, it lacks the decline feature and has a smaller console display.

Key Features and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 84.6L x 36.3W x 55.2H inches (215L x 92W x 140H cm)
• Tread belt dimensions: 60L x 20W inches (152L x 51W cm)
• Assembled weight: 280 lbs (127 kg)
• Max. weight capacity: 375 lbs (170 kg)
• Deck cushioning: Comfort Tech™
• Motor: 4.0 HP, 0 – 12 MPH
• Incline: Automatic, 0% – 15%
• Console: 7″ display, Bluetoot & WiFi connectivity, JRNY enabled, multiple pre-installed apps
• Amenities: HR armband strap, sound system, cooling fan, USB charging port, 2 bottle holders, accessory tray
• Warranty: Frame 15 years / Motor 15 years / Parts 5 years / Electronics 1 year / Labor 2 years

Frame construction

The Bowflex T7 treadmill features a heavy-duty steel frame combining rectangular and oval tubes in its construction. However, it lacks the upright bar base reinforcement braces that the T10 and T22 have. All the steel parts are coated with a chip-resistant paint finish black in color, this being the only color available for this machine, at least for the moment.

Of course, the treadmill also integrates several plastic parts. The side rail covers, the motor cover, and the console dashboard are the most notable ones. These are made from a tough ABS polymer. They’re also black to fit the color theme of the unit.

Although it’s the smallest model of the T series, this Bowflex treadmill is still pretty large. With all the parts assembled, it is 84.6″ (215 cm) long, and 36.3″ (92 cm) wide. It is also recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance on each side of the deck, and at least two and a half feet at the rear of the deck, for safe usage.

On the other hand, the treadmill is foldable. The deck can be folded up to save space. This also offers easier access to vacuum under it. The folding mechanism uses a hydraulic system so when you unfold the deck it lowers it slowly to prevent damage. With the deck folded up, the machine’s length is reduced to 52.5″ (133 cm), while its height becomes 67″ (170 cm).

The treadmill is also quite heavy. Its net weight is 280 lbs (127 kg) which pretty much means that the transport of the packaged unit requires at least two people. However, once it is assembled, it can easily be moved by one person, as its front base frame integrates transport wheels.

Deck construction

The Bowflex T7 treadmill features a pretty solid deck. Even though it has a slightly lower weight capacity than the other models, it is still rated for a maximum user weight limit of 375 lbs (170 kg), which is not bad for a home-use machine.

The deck is equipped with the standard Comfort Tech™ cushioning system. The main cushions can be seen on each side of the deck. Four of them are placed at the front of the deck to absorb more shock for each foot strike. The third set is closer to the rear of the deck for a better push-off. On top of this, the deckboard itself also has a bit of flex which contributes to the overall shock absorption of the treadmill’s deck.

The Bowflex T7 treadmill is equipped with a 3-ply belt. Its top layer is textured, designed for superior contact. The bottom layer is designed to stick better to the rollers and prevent slippage. The middle layer adds extra shock absorption to the running surface.

The belt offers an active area of 60″L x 20″W (152 x 51 cm). This being said, the treadmill should be able to accommodate users up to 6’5″ (196 cm) with no problem, allowing a complete range of motion even if running at maximum speed. The running area is pretty high above the floor level (approx. 13″ – 33 cm). Therefore, Bowflex recommends using the machine in a room with a ceiling that is at least 21″ (53 cm) higher than the tallest user.

Incline system

The Bowflex T7 treadmill is equipped with a power incline system. This means that you can adjust the incline while walking or running, without having to pause your workout. It also means that the console can automatically adjust the incline depending on the selected workout or JRNY virtual path.

The machine’s incline system consists of two main elements. One is a small motor, different from the drive motor. The other is a lift system placed under the front part of the deck. Thus, when the incline is adjusted from the console controls, the motor moves the lift, elevating or lowering the front section of the deck.

As we’ve mentioned above, this treadmill does not have the decline feature like the other models. It offers an incline range from 0% to 15%. The incline increments are 1%. There are controls for gradual incline adjustment integrated into the left grip of the machine. However, the console also has pre-set incline controls for 0%, 1%, 3%, 6%, 9%, 12%, and 15%.

Drive motor

As opposed to the Assault Fitness AirRunner, the Bowflex T7 is an electric treadmill. Therefore, it must be connected to a power source. A power cord with a US standard plug is included with the machine. The connector for the power cord is at the front base of the machine, next to an ON/OFF switch.

The treadmill features a 4.0 HP (peak power) motor, with a continuous power output of 2.5 CHP. The motor is designed to provide a constant high-performance even if running at a high speed for a long period of time. It is also equipped with a small flywheel for improved motion stability.

The machine’s motor offers a speed range between 0 and 12 MPH. The speed adjustment increments are 0.1 MPH so you can easily adjust your pace. The speed can be adjusted either gradually, from the keys integrated into the right handgrip or right handrail. Also, the console has pre-set speed buttons for 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 12 MPH.

The noise generated by the motor at the highest speed without any load is lower than 70 dB. However, depending on your weight, running technique, clothing and footwear, floor type, and other factors, your cadence may generate more or less noise.

Console

The machine’s console is pretty similar to the Bowflex C7 indoor cycling bike. It features a 7-inch display, full-color, with a user-friendly touchscreen interface and super-bright LED backlight. It has both Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.

There are several apps pre-installed on the console. The list includes Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video, as well as various apps for music. Plus, it has the Bowflex JRNY app which offers access to interactive training videos, 50+ scenic destinations, online progress tracking and rewarding, and more. The JRNY app requires a paid subscription but the treadmill comes with one-year free membership. The other apps (i.e. Netflix, Prime Video, etc) require a separate paid subscription. All these apps require a WiFi connection.

Although the JRNY app is the best feature that the console has to offer, you can use the treadmill without it if you don’t want to renew your membership after the 1-year free period expires. There are multiple pre-set programs built-in the console database. The base programs cover all kinds of workouts, including interval, hills, fat burn, and more. You can access any of these base workouts from the program tab. Plus, you can sync the console with various other fitness apps, like MyFitnessPal, Apple Health, and more.

The console’s metrics bar tracks distance, calories, calories/minute, pulse, speed, interval, and incline. It also tracks pace, but this metric is not shown on the metrics bar, only with the workout results. Speed and distance can be set either to metric or imperial units. The pulse reading function works either through the sensors integrated into the machine’s handgrips or with the included Bluetooth armband which automatically syncs with the console if you wear it.

The console also has a set of speakers, a workout fan, and a USB port. The speakers function via Bluetooth; thus, you can play the music on your phone or tablet through the console. The workout fan is right under the display. It has three speed settings. The USB port is at the top of the console; it offers the possibility to charge your phone or tablet while running. And finally, the console dashboard has two large accessory trays.

Assembly and Maintenance

The base of the machine with the motors, belt, rollers and other parts comes pre-assembled. However, the rest of the parts require user assembly. You will have to attach the two upright bars, the accessory tray, the handrails, the console, and several covers. This may take more than an hour but the task is far from being complicated. The manual provides clear, step-by-step assembly instructions, and all the necessary tools are included.

Maintenance doesn’t require much. First of all, it is recommended to keep the treadmill clean and inspect it periodically to make sure that all the parts function properly. It is also recommended to lubricate the belt after every 25 hours of use with silicone lubricant.

The Pros

• Sturdy deck – can hold users up to 375 lbs;
• Heavy unit (280 lbs) which adds stability to the ride;
• Professional-looking design;
• Transport wheels;
• Folding deck, equipped with a soft-drop hydraulic cylinder;
• Comfort Tech™ deck cushioning system;
• 3-ply light commercial belt for a prolonged lifespan;
• 4.0 HP, heavy-duty motor;
• Speed range between 0 and 12 MPH, offering the possibility to perform a wide array of workouts;
• Speed adjustment increments of 0.1 MPH so you can easily adapt your pace;
• Automatic incline system with a range of 0% to 15%;
• 7″ display console with touchscreen technology;
• Bluetooth and WiFi-enabled console;
• Multiple pre-installed apps including Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+;
• Pre-installed JRNY app for scenic rides, online progress tracking, and training videos;
• 1-year free membership for the JRNY app;
• Multiple on-board standard workout programs;
• Bluetooth HR armband included;
• Bluetooth speakers;
• 3-speed workout fan;
• USB port for charging your tablet or phone, and for workout data transfer;
• Pulse sensors integrated into the front handgrips;
• Fairly easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance required;
• Consistent warranty.

The Cons

• The JRNY app requires a monthly subscription after the 1-year free membership expires;
• No decline feature.

Summary

The Bowflex T7 is a heavy-duty treadmill designed for home use. It is equipped with a 4.0 HP motor offering a 0-12 MPH speed range, a solid deck with a maximum load limit of 375 lbs, and a smart console with wireless connectivity. It also comes with a one-year free membership for the JRNY app. It’s a treadmill for users of all levels, for high-intensity cardio training, interval training, weight loss, muscle toning, and stamina development.