| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Incline | Motor | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
XTERRA TRX3500 Check Discounted Price | L:77.2" W:35.5" H:56.1" | 350 lbs | Automatic, 0%-12% | 3.0 HP, 0.5-12 MPH | 30 preset programs, 2 custom, 1 HR, 2 user profiles, Bluetooth |
The TRX3500 is one of the treadmill models released by XTERRA Fitness in 2017. It’s a machine made for home use but does offer an impressive weight capacity, running surface, an array of features similar to light commercial models. In terms of specs and features, it can be compared to the ProForm 905 CST or the Schwinn 870 MY17. It’s a pretty solid running machine, and also comes with a very consistent in-home warranty.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 77.2L x 35.5W x 56.1H inches (196L x 90W x 142H cm)
- Tread belt dimensions: 60L x 20W inches (152.4L x 51W cm)
- Assembled weight: 214 lbs (97 kg)
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs (159 kg)
- Motor: 3.0 HP, 0-12 MPH
- Incline: Automatic, 0%-12%
- Deck cushioning: XtraSoft
- Console: 30 preset programs, 2 custom, 1 heart rate, Bluetooth
- Extras: Sound system, cooling fan, tablet holder, bottle holders
- Warranty: Frame Lifetime/ Motor lifetime / Parts 2 years / Deck 2 years / Labor 1 year
Frame & deck
Needless to say, the XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 treadmill features a durable steel frame. Its deck and base frame are designed to support users up to 350 lbs (159 kg). Due to the heavy-duty steel 
construction, the unit weighs quite a bit; with the frame fully assembled, it’s approx. 214 lbs (97 kg). This means it requires at least two people for transport and assembly. But on the other hand, all this weight considerably enhances its overall sturdiness and stability. You can be sure that it won’t wobble or rock even when you run at full speed.
The machine’s stability is also improved by its adjustable levelers. Both its front and rear bases rest on levelers with large rubber pads which offer the possibility to perfectly stabilize the unit on any type of floor.
The fully assembled treadmill is fairly large. It is approx. 77″ (196 cm) long, and 35″ (90 cm) wide. To these dimensions, it is recommended to add at least two feet of clearance on each side, and at least three feet of clearance at the rear of the deck, for safe operation and ease of access.
The machine’s frame has a folding design, though, which makes it a great choice for home use. The deck can be folded and locked up, and this way, the unit’s length is reduced by approx. 50%. The deck’s folding mechanism integrates a hydraulic cylinder which assists you when lifting and lowering the deck, supporting some of its weight. Also, the front base of the machine features transport wheels, so it’s fairly easy to relocate it when it’s folded.
The console masts are ovalized, an aspect that improves the unit’s overall aesthetics. They’re united by
a transversal bar, which can serve as support for your workout towel or an additional bottle holder.
The XTERRA TRX3500 treadmill offers a professional running surface of 60″L x 20″W (152.4 x 51 cm). Therefore, it can accommodate users up to 6’5″ (196 cm) tall, promoting a full stride even at maximum speed. The integrated 2-ply Duraweave belt provides superior adherence. Its rollers are crowned in order to improve traction and prolong the lifespan of the belt. They integrate industrial grade ball bearings which enable them to deliver a very smooth motion.
The treadmill’s deck is equipped with the XTRASoft shock absorption system which consists of multiple points of cushioning throughout the deck for superior impact absorption. Therefore, running on this treadmill will result in less workout-related pain, so you can walk or run longer than on asphalt or concrete.
Incline & step-up height
The XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 features a motorized incline system. It consists of a lift element placed under the front section of the deck and a motor which can set in motion this lift. Evidently, the
incline of the deck can only be adjusted from the console or from the controls built-in the left handlebar, when the unit is connected to a power source.
The machine’s incline range is between 0% and 12%. Of course, a full commercial machine can provide much more incline, but this 12% can also considerably increase the difficulty of your workout. For example, you’re going to need quite a high level of fitness in order to run at 10 MPH with the incline set at 10% for more than a few minutes.
Some of the console preset programs use incline. Therefore, when using one of these programs, the machine will auto-adjust the incline of the deck. Also, the console features quick selection controls for the 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12% incline settings.
When it comes to the deck’s step-up height, the running surface is situated at approx. 8″ (20 cm) above floor level. Also, by setting the incline to its maximum position the front part will reach a height of approx. 13.5″ (34 cm) above floor level. These being said, it’s recommended to install and use the machine in a room with a ceiling height that is at least 20″ (51 cm) higher than your own height.
Drive motor
The XTERRA Fitness treadmill TRX3500 is equipped with a motor 3.0 HP motor designed to support long distance running workouts without overheating or losing performance. It’s also equipped with a small flywheel which reduces vibration which results in a smoother motion of the front roller.
The motor offers a speed range between 0.5 MPH and 12 MPH. Just as for the incline, the console features controls for gradual speed adjustment and quick speed adjustment. However, the quick keys for speed adjustment only cover the settings from 1 to 10 MPH. So, if you want to increase the speed further, up to 12 MPH, you will have to use the arrow controls on the console, or the ones integrated into the right handlebar.
The gradual adjustment keys offer the possibility to adjust the resistance in increments of 0.1 MPH and 0.5 MPH. By pressing one button repeatedly, the speed of the belt will be adjusted in increments of 0.1 MPH, while when pressing and holding the button, the speed adjustment will increase to 0.5 MPH. This is quite a useful feature as you can easily find the most comfortable pace for your workout. Also, since the top speed setting is 12 MPH, the machine offers the possibility to perform sprint workouts and interval workouts.
Console
This XTERRA treadmill features a console with a pretty impressive range of features. To begin with, it has a 6.5″ LCD display with blue LED backlight which considerably improves its readability. The 
display is divided into several sub-sections, showing multiple workout metrics simultaneously. It tracks pace, calories, time, distance, heart rate, also showing the selected speed and incline levels.
For speed and distance, there are both metric and standard unit settings available. Therefore, speed can be shown either in MPH or km/h, while distance can be shown in miles or km. Distance can also be displayed as a 1/4 mile (400 m) track and will count the laps that you have completed.
For heart rate monitoring, you can use the sensors built-in the machine’s handlebars. However, the console is also telemetric. This means it can communicate with various wireless HR chest strap transmitters. An HR chest strap is not included, though.
There are two user profile settings on the console. For each user setting, you can select age, weight, workout duration and target heart rate. Therefore, if two persons are using the machine, each one can save their own settings. Also, since you can input your weight and age, the console can calculate better the amount of calories burned.
In terms of programs, the unit has 30 preset, 2 custom, 1 for heart rate, and of course, the manual program. The 30 preset programs cover various workouts, some of them focused on fat burning, others offering an interval setup, while others will help you perform a consistent cardio workout. The 2 custom programs give you the possibility to design your own workout, while the heart rate programs will auto-adjust the speed of the tread belt, in order to keep you within the selected HR interval.
The console integrates a Bluetooth transceiver that allows it to interact with smartphones or tablets that have the free XTERRA app. This way, you can directly stream your workout data online, in order to keep a better track of your progress, share your results on social media. The XTERRA App also allows you to sync your workout data with one of many fitness cloud sites, such as iHealth, MapMyFitness, Record, Fitbit, and more.
The XTERRA TRX3500 console is also equipped with several amenities. Among them, we can count a sound system, a cooling fan, a tablet holder, and two bottle holders. The sound system consists of two large speakers, one on each side of the unit. The console has an audio jack input so you can connect it to your phone, tablet or MP3 player and listen to your music through the integrates speakers. The workout fan is placed at the bottom of the unit. It’s not too powerful but does provide a bit of cooling during a more intense workout, if needed. The tablet holder is placed above the fan; it can accommodate any tabled, but there isn’t any USB docking port. And finally, the unit’s dashboard features two molded bottle holders, one on each side.
Assembly & Maintenance
The treadmill’s deck with its motors, belt, and other components comes pre-assembled and already attached to the bottom metallic frame. Therefore, all you need to do for the assembly is attach the console masts, the towel support bar between them, and the console. This shouldn’t take more than 30 min. All the necessary tools for assembly are included, and the manual provides very clear instructions.
Like for most treadmills, the belt requires periodic lubrication (after every 180 hours of use). However, it’s pre-lubricated so it shouldn’t need further lubrication for your first 180 hours of use. The running belt should be wiped clean with a damp cloth after every workout to prevent any small objects or textile fibers from being dragged into the motor or the rollers.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame construction;
- High weight capacity – can support users up to 350 lbs;
- Space-saving design (the deck folds up);
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Adjustable stabilizers;
- XTRASoft cushioning, with multiple shock absorption points;
- 60″ x 20″ running surface;
- Motorized incline with a range between 0% – 12%;
- 3.0 HP motor offering speeds up to 12 MPH;
- Speed can be adjusted increments of 0.1 MPH, allowing you to find the perfect pace for your workout;
- EGK pulse sensors integrated into handlebars;
- Speed and incline controls built-in the handlebars;
- Telemetric console – can read pulse from any Bluetooth Smart HR chest strap transmitter;
- Bluetooth enabled;
- Compatible with multiple fitness cloud sites, such as iHealth, MapMyFitness, Record, or Fitbit;
- 33 workout programs;
- 2 user profiles;
- Sound system included;
- Cooling fan included;
- Tablet holder included;
- Accessory trays included;
- Quiet operation;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- A tablet placed on the tablet holder may cover the console display;
- HR chest strap not included.
Summary
The XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 is a heavy-duty treadmill made for home use. It’s equipped with a powerful 3.0 HP motor, automatic incline, and a cushioned deck with a superior weight capacity. Its console offers over 30 workout programs. It has Bluetooth connectivity so you can save your progress online and plan your future workouts. There also are various amenities on the console, such as a sound system, cooling fan, and a tablet holder. These being said, the XTERRA TRX3500 is a pretty solid treadmill, perfect for light to intense cardio workouts, muscle toning, endurance development, intervals, and weight loss. It’s not one of the most affordable units but does offer an excellent feature range and overall quality for the price.