ProForm PRO 9000 Treadmill

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Incline/ Decline	Motor	Console
ProForm PRO 9000 Check Discounted Price	L:77" W:39" H:70"	300 lbs	Incline 0%-15% Decline -3% - 0%	4.25 CHP, 1-12 MPH	40 programs iFit enabled

We’ve already covered several models from the ProForm PRO series, such as the ProForm PRO 2000 and the ProForm PRO 5000. We’re addressing this post to the newer ProForm PRO 9000 which is one of the models released in 2017. It’s one of the ProForm treadmills with the largest running surface available. Although it’s not advertised and sold as a commercial-grade machine, it definitely has a construction and range of features similar at least to a light-commercial treadmill. For reference, this is the ProForm part number PFTL17116.

Technical Details & Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 77L x 39W x 70H inches (196L x 99W x 178H cm)
• Tread belt dimensions: 60L x 22W inches (152L x 56W cm)
• Assembled weight: 295 lbs (134 kg)
• Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Motor: 4.25 CHP Mach Z
• Incline: Automatic, 0-15%
• Decline: Automatic, -3% – 0%
• Deck cushioning: ProShox
• Speed levels: 0-12 MPH
• Console: 40 workout programs, iFit enabled
• Amenities: Sound system, cooling fans, accessory trays, tablet holder
• Warranty: Frame lifetime / Motor lifetime / Parts 5 years / Labor 2 years

Frame & deck

Since it’s a machine pretty close to light-commercial grade level, the ProForm PRO 9000 has quite a durable construction featuring a high-grade steel frame. However, it does integrate several ABS parts as well. For example, the side rail covers, the rear and front base covers, the motor cover, and the console dashboard are not metallic. They do not reduce the machine’s overall sturdiness, though, as their role is only protective or cosmetic. The unit is rated for a user weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg).

This ProForm treadmill is not one of the largest machines available, but it still takes 77″L x 39″W of floor space when fully assembled. On top of that, ProForm recommends leaving at least 8′ (244 cm) of clearance at the rear, and at least 2′ (61 cm) of clearance on each side for safe operation.

The machine has a folding design. The deck can be folded up, its folding mechanism integrating a hydraulic lift-assist system which facilitates the folding/unfolding of the deck. With the deck folded up, the machine’s length is reduced by approx. 2/3, while its total height gains a few inches.

The fully assembled unit is not exactly light. It weighs approx. 295 lbs (134 kg). Therefore, it is recommended to be carried and assembled by at least two people. However, once it is assembled, its transport is eased by the small wheels integrated into the rear part of the front base frame. So, as long as you can lift and handle a weight of at least 45 lbs (20 kg), you should be able to move the folded and assembled unit without a problem.

The front and rear bases of the unit are equipped with adjustable stabilizers. The two console masts are united at the middle by an ABS accessory tray, similar to the PRO 5000 model.

One last aspect with regards to the unit’s metallic frame that we’re going to cover here is the paint finish. The ProForm PRO 9000 is coated with a rust-resistant and abrasion-resistant paint. The color used for the base frame is black, while the color of the paint finish on the console masts is metallic gray.

The machine’s tread belt offers a running platform of 60″L x 22″W (152 x 56 cm), the largest ProForm treadmill running surface. It offers plenty of space for a complete and satisfying stride length even for users taller than 6’5″ (196 cm). It uses a heavy-duty 2-ply belt, resistant to stretching which provides a high adherence during running.

The belt is set in motion by two large 2.5″ balanced and crowned rollers which not only that provide an excellent traction and stability for the belt, they’re designed to prolong its lifespan. They integrate industrial-grade ball bearings for a smooth motion and long-lasting performance.

The unit’s deck is equipped with the ProShox cushioning system. For this machine, it consists of two larger cushioning elements on each side. However, as opposed to other ProForm treadmills, such as the ProForm 705 CST, the ProShox elements are concealed by the side rails. Nonetheless, the machine provides a running platform that absorbs up to 25% of the shock of each foot strike, resulting in a much pleasant ride and less pain in your hips, knees, and ankles.

Incline, decline & step-up height

The ProForm PRO 9000 is equipped with an automatic incline/decline system. This means the incline or decline can only be adjusted from the unit’s console. Also, certain preset programs will auto-adjust the incline or decline if selected.

The unit’s incline/decline system consists of a small lift and motor placed at the front of the deck. As you select a certain incline or decline level from the console, the motor will power the lift in order to provide the apposite incline or decline.

There are 15 levels of incline available, and 3 levels of decline. The incline/decline increments are 1%. The console has buttons for gradual increase or decrease, but there also are quick selection keys for the 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15 incline settings, and -3, -2, -1 decline settings.

At 0% incline, the deck provides an elevation of approx. 10.5″ (27 cm) above floor level. With the incline set at maximum, the front of the deck rises by approx. 6 extra inches (15 cm). Therefore, in order to avoid any ceiling issues, it’s recommended to use the machine in a room with a ceiling that is at least 20″-22″ (51-56 cm) higher than your own height.

Motor

The ProForm PRO 9000 is equipped with an industrial-grade Mach Z 4.25 CHP motor. It’s definitely a motor that can provide a high and constant performance for prolonged workouts with no problem. Even if you’re close to the maximum weight capacity, and even if you use the highest speed settings, the motor shouldn’t overheat or lose performance. A small flywheel is also equipped onto the motor to enhance motion stability and to reduce vibration.

The speed range provided by the machine’s motor is between 0.5 and 12 MPH. Evidently, speed can only be adjusted from the machine’s console. Just as for the incline and decline, there are buttons for gradual adjustment and quick selection adjustment. The quick selection buttons cover all the speed settings from 1 to 12 MPH.

The arrow keys for the gradual speed adjustment are bi-functional. If pressed once, they will adjust speed by 0.1 MPH; if you press and hold a key down, the tread belt’s speed will adjust in increments of 0.5 MPH. The fact that you can adjust speed in increments of 0.1 is quite a plus, as you can easily find the most comfortable pace for your workout.

The motor itself does not produce a high level of noise. In fact, it’s pretty quiet. But just as for any other treadmill, your running cadence will generate some noise. Differently put, in an apartment building, your neighbors will definitely hear you running.

Last but not least, the treadmill requires a standard 120V circuit. It comes with a standard power cord with a grounding pin, for American-type outlets, not an AC adapter. It’s recommended the use of a surge suppressor, however, this is not supplied with the box. The power cord plugs into the machine at the front base. There’s also an ON/OFF switch function.

Console

The ProForm PRO 9000 offers an impressive range of features. To begin with, it’s equipped with a large touchscreen LCD display with LED backlight which is similar to a tablet. However, it does not have all the functions of a tablet. For example, it does not have a built-in web browser other apps. It only uses the built-in workout programs and the iFit applications.

In terms of fitness metrics, the console unit tracks time, distance, the number of vertical feet you have climbed, calories, and pulse. Of course, it also indicates the current speed and incline settings, while the mid-section shows the profiles of the program in use. There’s also

There are both metric and English unit settings available. In other words, you can have the speed reading in km/h or MPH, while the distance in km or miles. For the distance traveled there is also a race track function. This shows the distance as a track of 1/4 miles (400 m), and counts the laps that you complete.

The front handlebar under the console is equipped with pulse sensors. The unit can track your pulse via a Bluetooth wireless HR chest strap as well. However, this accessory is not included.

There are 40 workout programs available on the console. Some of these programs have an interval structure, others focus on a high-calorie burn, others will help you build stamina, and several are for weight loss.

One of the best features of the machine’s console is its iFit compatibility. It has Wi-Fi connectivity and can directly connect to your Wi-Fi in order to access your iFit account. If you have an iFit account and an active subscription you can directly stream your data into your online iFit profile. This way, you can keep a better track of your progress. On top of that, iFit gives you the possibility to run on virtual paths downloaded via Google Map, compete with other iFit users, and a whole bunch of other nice features.

The console features several amenities as well. First of all, it has an incorporated sound system which is compatible with most MP3 players, smartphones, and tablets. Therefore, you can play your music through these speakers in order to benefit from a higher sound quality than the one offered by your phone or tablet speakers. There are volume touch buttons on the right side of the console.

As opposed to other ProForm treadmills this one is equipped with dual workout fans. The two fans are placed one on each side of the console; they’re fairly large and they provide a significant cooling power. There are several fan speeds available as well, the controls for this being placed on the bottom left section of the console.

A tablet holder is also included. It can be attached to the top part of the console so that your tablet won’t cover the controls or the console display. Plus, there are several accessory trays molded into the console dashboard which give you the possibility to store your water bottle, TV remote control, keys, phone or other small stuff.

Assembly & Maintenance

The deck of the treadmill, along with the incline and drive motors, the belt and all the other elements, comes pre-assembled and attached to the metallic base frame. So, the assembly only requires you to attach the front base covers, the two console masts, the console, and the side handlebars. This shouldn’t take more than one hour. The manual provides all the necessary instructions and schematics, and some of the tools (Allen wrenches) required for the assembly are included.

Just as for any treadmill, maintenance requires the periodic lubrication of the belt. However, all ProForm treadmills come pre-lubricated, so they shouldn’t require any lubrication for a while. The belt must be kept clean to prevent any small objects or textile fibers to be caught into the motor. Also, it’s recommended to periodically check the integrity of the machine, look for loose bolts and parts and re-tighten them if necessary.

The Pros

• Light commercial construction, 300 lbs weight capacity;
• Folding deck, with a soft-drop assist mechanism;
• ProShox cushioned deck;
• Motorized incline and decline;
• Commercial grade motor, 4.25 CHP;
• Largest ProForm running surface – 60″L x 22″W;
• Up to 12 MPH speed;
• Speed increments of 0.1 and 0.5;
• Large, crowned rollers, 2.5″ for superior traction and a prolonged belt lifespan;
• 2-ply, commercial quality belt, stretch-resistant;
• Large LCD display console with touchscreen navigation;
• 40 built-in workout programs;
• Trail distance function;
• Goal setting functions;
• iFit enabled, which opens superior progress measuring possibilities, a wide array of custom workouts, running via Google Maps, competing with others, and more;
• Bluetooth HR chest strap compatible;
• Sound system compatible with most smartphones, tablets and MP3 devices;
• Dual cooling fans;
• Tablet holder included;
• Multiple accessory trays;
• Quiet machine;
• Fairly easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance required;
• Excellent warranty.

The Cons

• An iFit membership is not included with the machine;
• Bluetooth wireless HR chest strap is not included;
• No browser or any other apps on the console rather than iFit and the treadmill programs.

Summary

The ProForm PRO 9000 is a heavy-duty treadmill equipped with a 4.25 CHP motor, a motorized incline/decline system, a large LCD touchscreen console that is iFit ready and has a wide array of preset workout programs. It has the largest ProForm running platform and the deck also folds up to provide better storage possibilities. It’s an excellent machine for users of all levels, for light to intense cardio workouts, stamina development, muscle toning, and weight loss. In all, it offers great value for the price.