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When choosing to build out a home gym, a treadmill is often one of the first pieces people consider for cardio equipment. But when perusing the internet for the best treadmills, you’ll find the market is saturated with options that aren’t suitable for tall runners or those with longer gaits. However, we’ve compiled a list of treadmills that...
The post The 7 Best Treadmills for Tall Runners of 2024 — Expert Tested and Approved appeared first on BarBend.
When choosing to build out a home gym, a treadmill is often one of the first pieces people consider for cardio equipment. But when perusing the internet for the best treadmills, you’ll find the market is saturated with options that aren’t suitable for tall runners or those with longer gaits. However, we’ve compiled a list of treadmills that offer at least a 60-inch running deck, which will provide racers of all heights enough runway to take off.
Finding the right treadmill that’ll have you committed to building your routine is one of the best ways to bring the benefits of cardio into your life. Benefits include elevating your mood and managing weight, to improving cardiorespiratory function and increasing longevity. (1) Our team of testers, ranging in height from five foot five to six foot three, laced up with the best running shoes and put the top machines in the market to the test — here are our top picks for the best treadmills for tall runners.
The 7 Best Treadmills for Tall Runners
About Our Expert
This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer and BarBend’s expert tester. She reviewed the research we cite to help ensure we’re providing advice that’s safe and sound. However, before you start a new fitness routine, it’s best to consult your doctor.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Treadmills for Tall Runners
The BarBend roster is filled with marathon racers, former D.1 athletes, and weekend warrior fitness enthusiasts who have tried and tested over 40 of the top treadmills with the goal of giving you the most honest and thorough reviews possible. To provide the clearest understanding of our testing notes, we’ve utilized a multi-point methodology, scoring categories such as footprint, adjustability, and dynamic programming from 1 (not great) to 5 (we love it). Here are some of the areas we focused on when making our picks:
Deck Length
While we’ve tested treadmills with deck sizes between 38 inches and 62 inches, our first point of consideration was making sure to only provide choices with at least a 60-inch running surface. As certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto noted, “You’ll want a running deck at least 60 inches in length to accommodate the length of a typical running stride. Shorter individuals may be able to get away with a shorter deck; taller individuals may need to look for a deck even longer than 60 inches, although this can be tough to find and will cost you more money.”
Cost
Running on a treadmill shouldn’t limit a proper stride length, regardless of the cost. However, we understand that every runner is working with a different budget, so we made sure to include options that varied in price range from entry-level budget treadmills up to premium high-quality machines. However, due to the 60-inch deck length, a majority of these choices are quality treadmills and will be more expensive than treadmills with less suitable space for your pace.
Adjustability and Ergonomics
We sprinted at their top speed and climbed to the max of each treadmill’s top incline. Having access to a wider range of speed capabilities, incline and decline training, and seamless interactive programming puts athletes in the driver’s seat of their success. We wanted machines that provided enough training intensity that tall runners of all levels could benefit from.
Additionally, when there were HD touchscreens for streaming content, we looked for tilting capabilities to keep taller runners in a more ergonomic viewing position. When treadmills on our list had screens that didn’t have tilting capabilities, we made sure to note it. Some lower-priced treadmills come with an LCD display instead of a touchscreen, providing basic user stats and some preset programs.
Best Treadmill for Tall Runners Overall: Horizon 7.0 AT
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a durable, low-cost option for anyone looking for a quality treadmill without overspending. It features a strong motor, a wide range of speed and incline settings, and a unique three-zone cushion system.
Shop Amazon
Specs
Pros
Cons
The benefits of cardio have been proven to lower blood pressure, strengthen hearts, and reduce cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. (2) While many treadmills aren’t suitable for tall runners, the Horizon 7.0 AT provides a 60-inch running deck with enough room for those with long legs and long gaits. You’re also getting 12 miles per hour max speed, and while there’s no decline training, there is up to 15 percent incline. Value, conveniences, durability, and footprint all scored a 4 out of 5 for us.
Workout experience scored a 4.5 out of 5. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted, “It didn’t shake when I was running and the 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning felt comfortable.” This cushioning creates stability at the back of the belt where your foot pushes off, a neutral central zone, and extra cushioning at the front where your foot makes impact. “A well-cushioned running deck is an essential component of a treadmill for individuals who have joint problems, particularly bad knees,” mentioned certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto.
Our tester runs on a Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Durability scored a 4 out of 5 for its 325 max user capacity and lifetime frame and motor warranties. “I recommend looking for a 10-year frame [warranty],” said Capritto, and here Horizon Fitness goes above and beyond. However, the 3.0 HP motor is less robust than the CHP motors we tend to recommend for serious runners.
At $999, this is a budget-friendly pick, especially when compared to similar machines that range from $1,500 to $2,000. Our tester noted, “While the tech capabilities on this treadmill aren’t the most impressive, the Bluetooth connectivity makes pairing with Zwift or Peloton possible.” There isn’t an HD touchscreen, but there is a 7.25-inch LCD display that provides basic stats like duration, distance, speed, incline, and heart-rate. Plus, 8 workout programs are built-in to get your rear in gear. Since the console here falls a bit short compared to other higher-end treadmills, our team gave tech capabilities a 3 out of 5.
Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.
Best Manual Treadmill for Tall Runners: AssaultRunner Elite
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
The Assault Runner Elite is a top-tier motorless treadmill thanks to its heavy shock-absorbent belt that utilizes inertia to reach and maintain optimal speeds in training. We also appreciate the added conveniences of built-in water bottle holders and a center storage compartment.
Shop Assault Fitness
Specs
Pros
Cons
Manual treadmills are touted for their ability to help runners improve their form, encouraging a powerful push-off from the balls of your feet to propel you forward. Because of this, you won’t need a power source — you are the power source. The AssaultRunner Elite is our choice for the best manual treadmill for tall runners, and best curved treadmill overall, due to its incredible 400-pound user weight capacity and its generous 62.2-inch running deck, allowing users of all heights and sizes the ability to pick up the pace. Durability, customizations, adjustability, and conveniences all scored a 4 out of 5 for us.
Our product tester running on the AssaultRunner Elite.
Our tester has owned this treadmill for over two years, “I appreciate that the LCD screen is simple and easy,” they noted. Here you’ll see stats such as time, calories, distance, speed, and programs. You’ll also have the ability to connect a heart rate monitor via Bluetooth and ANT+. Tech capabilities scored a 3.5 out of 5 with our tester, who noted, “The monitor is solid, but that’s about it when it comes to tech features.”
At $3,999 the Elite is $1,000 more expensive than the Pro model, but with that price tag, you’re getting two water bottle holders, a UV-resistant console, and a lifetime warranty on the belt as compared to the 150,000 mile belt warranty on the Pro. Additionally, “The Elite reigns supreme compared to the Pro when it comes to max user weight, with 400 pounds versus the 350 you’ll find on the Pro,” noted our tester.
This machine is built to last. The frame and handrails are made from solid steel with a rust-resistant top coat, the hardware is corrosion-resistant, and the console screen is UV resistant. Our tester gave durability a 4 out of 5, stating, “You’re getting a lifetime warranty on the belt, and 10 years on the frame. The only reason I took away a point in this category is because of the plastic sides.”
While users won’t have the option to adjust the incline range, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto noted her appreciation of these manual treadmills, “I love how the AssaultRunner encourages me to maintain good running form and feels more like running outdoors, but brings all the benefits of running indoors.” Similarly, customers love this machine and mention the ease of assembly when they have a helping hand. Customer reviews scored a 4.6 out of 5.
Read our full Assault Runner Elite Treadmill Review.
Best Treadmill with Screen for Tall Runners: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is made for the tech-loving runner. This high-tech treadmill features a touchscreen monitor that can tilt and rotate, and offers automatic incline, decline, and speed adjustments based on the workout you choose.
Shop Amazon
Specs
Pros
Cons
The 1750 is one of the best NordicTrack treadmills out there. With a 60-inch running deck, taller runners or those with longer strides will have room to move. The 14-inch touchscreen can tilt, improving your view based on your height. And, it can swivel, so you can take classes off of your treadmill. This treadmill has an overall score of 4.5 out of 5, one of the highest overall scores out of over 40 treadmills that we’ve tested. Durability, customizations, workout experience, and tech capabilities all scored a 5 out of 5 for us. (Can you tell we love this treadmill?)
This treadmill is iFIT compatible, viewed through the tilting touchscreen, giving users access to over 17,000 workouts. This subscription comes with a monthly membership of $39 after a free month’s trial. We think this is a worthwhile investment, and if you’re not interested in iFIT programming, perhaps you may want to consider an alternative treadmill since its compatibility is a big selling point. Dynamic programming and ergonomics scored a 5 out of 5. For more information on the NordicTrack 1750’s tech features, check out our video from our expert reviewer, Jake Herod, below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eR4J8l0_4Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review (2022) — BEST Of The Best? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eR4J8l0_4)
The 12 miles per hour max speed and -3 to 12 percent incline are powered by a 3.5 CHP motor, stronger than the 3.0 CHP motors we recommend for serious racers. Certified personal trainer and Barbend editorial member Kate Meier took the 1750 for a spin utilizing an iFIT workout. “On screen, the trainer started running downhill and the treadmill adjusted so I felt like I was right there with them,” they said. With iFIT’s AutoAdjust features, your treadmill adjusts its speed and incline based on your trainer’s commands. Workout experience and tech capabilities scored a 5 out of 5.
“While the four-figure price tag may not be everyone’s idea of budget-friendly, I truly do think this is one of the best buys for the money…The main drawback… is its footprint. It’s large and heavy, so definitely ensure your space can fit it,” noted certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto. At 80-inches long and 38-inches wide, the 1750 is 3-inches longer and wider than the average treadmill.
Read the full NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review.
Best Treadmill for Tall Runners with Interactive Programming: ProForm Pro 9000
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.
Shop ProForm
...
Click here to view the article.
The post The 7 Best Treadmills for Tall Runners of 2024 — Expert Tested and Approved appeared first on BarBend.
When choosing to build out a home gym, a treadmill is often one of the first pieces people consider for cardio equipment. But when perusing the internet for the best treadmills, you’ll find the market is saturated with options that aren’t suitable for tall runners or those with longer gaits. However, we’ve compiled a list of treadmills that offer at least a 60-inch running deck, which will provide racers of all heights enough runway to take off.
Finding the right treadmill that’ll have you committed to building your routine is one of the best ways to bring the benefits of cardio into your life. Benefits include elevating your mood and managing weight, to improving cardiorespiratory function and increasing longevity. (1) Our team of testers, ranging in height from five foot five to six foot three, laced up with the best running shoes and put the top machines in the market to the test — here are our top picks for the best treadmills for tall runners.
The 7 Best Treadmills for Tall Runners
- Best Treadmill for Tall Runners Overall: Horizon 7.0 AT
- Best Manual Treadmill for Tall Runners: AssaultRunner Elite
- Best Treadmill with Screen for Tall Runners: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
- Best Treadmill for Tall Runners with Interactive Programming: ProForm Pro 9000
- Best Simple Treadmill for Tall Runners: Sole F63
- Best Foldable Treadmill for Tall Runners: NordicTrack 2450
- Best Value Treadmill for Tall Runners: Bowflex Treadmill 10
About Our Expert
This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer and BarBend’s expert tester. She reviewed the research we cite to help ensure we’re providing advice that’s safe and sound. However, before you start a new fitness routine, it’s best to consult your doctor.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Treadmills for Tall Runners
The BarBend roster is filled with marathon racers, former D.1 athletes, and weekend warrior fitness enthusiasts who have tried and tested over 40 of the top treadmills with the goal of giving you the most honest and thorough reviews possible. To provide the clearest understanding of our testing notes, we’ve utilized a multi-point methodology, scoring categories such as footprint, adjustability, and dynamic programming from 1 (not great) to 5 (we love it). Here are some of the areas we focused on when making our picks:
Deck Length
While we’ve tested treadmills with deck sizes between 38 inches and 62 inches, our first point of consideration was making sure to only provide choices with at least a 60-inch running surface. As certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto noted, “You’ll want a running deck at least 60 inches in length to accommodate the length of a typical running stride. Shorter individuals may be able to get away with a shorter deck; taller individuals may need to look for a deck even longer than 60 inches, although this can be tough to find and will cost you more money.”
Cost
Running on a treadmill shouldn’t limit a proper stride length, regardless of the cost. However, we understand that every runner is working with a different budget, so we made sure to include options that varied in price range from entry-level budget treadmills up to premium high-quality machines. However, due to the 60-inch deck length, a majority of these choices are quality treadmills and will be more expensive than treadmills with less suitable space for your pace.
Adjustability and Ergonomics
We sprinted at their top speed and climbed to the max of each treadmill’s top incline. Having access to a wider range of speed capabilities, incline and decline training, and seamless interactive programming puts athletes in the driver’s seat of their success. We wanted machines that provided enough training intensity that tall runners of all levels could benefit from.
Additionally, when there were HD touchscreens for streaming content, we looked for tilting capabilities to keep taller runners in a more ergonomic viewing position. When treadmills on our list had screens that didn’t have tilting capabilities, we made sure to note it. Some lower-priced treadmills come with an LCD display instead of a touchscreen, providing basic user stats and some preset programs.
Best Treadmill for Tall Runners Overall: Horizon 7.0 AT
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a durable, low-cost option for anyone looking for a quality treadmill without overspending. It features a strong motor, a wide range of speed and incline settings, and a unique three-zone cushion system.
Shop Amazon
Specs
- Price: $999
- Running Deck: 20” W x 60” L
- Dimensions: 59? H x 76.5? L x 36? W
- Weight: 277lbs
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Max Incline: 15%
- Max User Capacity: 325lbs
Pros
- The 60-inch running deck will provide enough space for tall runners and those with longer strides.
- At $999, this is a more budget-friendly pick than the average $1,500 to $2,000 machine.
- The 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning helps protect your joints from impact.
Cons
- The tech on this treadmill is limited outside of Bluetooth connectivity, so if you’re looking for an HD touchscreen or dynamic programming, you may want to look elsewhere.
- The verified 3.0 horsepower motor is less robust than the continuous horsepower motors we like to recommend for serious runners.
- Runners looking for decline training won’t find it on this machine.
The benefits of cardio have been proven to lower blood pressure, strengthen hearts, and reduce cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. (2) While many treadmills aren’t suitable for tall runners, the Horizon 7.0 AT provides a 60-inch running deck with enough room for those with long legs and long gaits. You’re also getting 12 miles per hour max speed, and while there’s no decline training, there is up to 15 percent incline. Value, conveniences, durability, and footprint all scored a 4 out of 5 for us.
Workout experience scored a 4.5 out of 5. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted, “It didn’t shake when I was running and the 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning felt comfortable.” This cushioning creates stability at the back of the belt where your foot pushes off, a neutral central zone, and extra cushioning at the front where your foot makes impact. “A well-cushioned running deck is an essential component of a treadmill for individuals who have joint problems, particularly bad knees,” mentioned certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto.
Durability scored a 4 out of 5 for its 325 max user capacity and lifetime frame and motor warranties. “I recommend looking for a 10-year frame [warranty],” said Capritto, and here Horizon Fitness goes above and beyond. However, the 3.0 HP motor is less robust than the CHP motors we tend to recommend for serious runners.
At $999, this is a budget-friendly pick, especially when compared to similar machines that range from $1,500 to $2,000. Our tester noted, “While the tech capabilities on this treadmill aren’t the most impressive, the Bluetooth connectivity makes pairing with Zwift or Peloton possible.” There isn’t an HD touchscreen, but there is a 7.25-inch LCD display that provides basic stats like duration, distance, speed, incline, and heart-rate. Plus, 8 workout programs are built-in to get your rear in gear. Since the console here falls a bit short compared to other higher-end treadmills, our team gave tech capabilities a 3 out of 5.
Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.
Best Manual Treadmill for Tall Runners: AssaultRunner Elite
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
The Assault Runner Elite is a top-tier motorless treadmill thanks to its heavy shock-absorbent belt that utilizes inertia to reach and maintain optimal speeds in training. We also appreciate the added conveniences of built-in water bottle holders and a center storage compartment.
Shop Assault Fitness
Specs
- Price: $3,999
- Running Deck: 17.25” W x 62.2” L
- Dimensions: 64.4? H x 69.9? L x 31.7? W
- Weight: 289.2lbs
- Max Speed: N/A
- Max Incline: N/A
- Max User Capacity: 400lbs
Pros
- The 62.2-inch deck length is longer than the 60-inches we tend to recommend for taller runners, giving users even more space for their stride.
- This heavy-duty treadmill has a 400-pound user weight capacity, allowing for a wider range of users.
- Runners can go from standing still into a sprint with a few quick steps, making sprint training and HIIT workouts ideal when compared to motorized treadmills.
Cons
- There are no incline adjustments available on this treadmill.
- Due to the weight of this machine, we recommend having at least two people to assemble it.
- The AssaultRunner Elite is similar to the Pro, besides a more generous warranty, a higher max user weight, and added conveniences, but it is $1,000 more expensive.
Manual treadmills are touted for their ability to help runners improve their form, encouraging a powerful push-off from the balls of your feet to propel you forward. Because of this, you won’t need a power source — you are the power source. The AssaultRunner Elite is our choice for the best manual treadmill for tall runners, and best curved treadmill overall, due to its incredible 400-pound user weight capacity and its generous 62.2-inch running deck, allowing users of all heights and sizes the ability to pick up the pace. Durability, customizations, adjustability, and conveniences all scored a 4 out of 5 for us.
Our tester has owned this treadmill for over two years, “I appreciate that the LCD screen is simple and easy,” they noted. Here you’ll see stats such as time, calories, distance, speed, and programs. You’ll also have the ability to connect a heart rate monitor via Bluetooth and ANT+. Tech capabilities scored a 3.5 out of 5 with our tester, who noted, “The monitor is solid, but that’s about it when it comes to tech features.”
At $3,999 the Elite is $1,000 more expensive than the Pro model, but with that price tag, you’re getting two water bottle holders, a UV-resistant console, and a lifetime warranty on the belt as compared to the 150,000 mile belt warranty on the Pro. Additionally, “The Elite reigns supreme compared to the Pro when it comes to max user weight, with 400 pounds versus the 350 you’ll find on the Pro,” noted our tester.
This machine is built to last. The frame and handrails are made from solid steel with a rust-resistant top coat, the hardware is corrosion-resistant, and the console screen is UV resistant. Our tester gave durability a 4 out of 5, stating, “You’re getting a lifetime warranty on the belt, and 10 years on the frame. The only reason I took away a point in this category is because of the plastic sides.”
While users won’t have the option to adjust the incline range, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto noted her appreciation of these manual treadmills, “I love how the AssaultRunner encourages me to maintain good running form and feels more like running outdoors, but brings all the benefits of running indoors.” Similarly, customers love this machine and mention the ease of assembly when they have a helping hand. Customer reviews scored a 4.6 out of 5.
Read our full Assault Runner Elite Treadmill Review.
Best Treadmill with Screen for Tall Runners: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is made for the tech-loving runner. This high-tech treadmill features a touchscreen monitor that can tilt and rotate, and offers automatic incline, decline, and speed adjustments based on the workout you choose.
Shop Amazon
Specs
- Price: $2,299
- Running Deck: 20” W x 60” L
- Dimensions: 65? H x 80? L x 38? W
- Weight: 340lbs
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Max Incline: -3 to 12%
- Max User Capacity: 300lbs
Pros
- The 14-inch HD touchscreen display can tilt and pivot, allowing an easier eye line to streamable iFIT classes for taller runners.
- The 60-inch running deck allows tall runners enough space to pick up their speed.
- The robust 3.5 CHP motor will easily power up to 12 miles per hour max speed and -3 to 12 percent inclines.
Cons
- This treadmill takes up a lot of space, with an 80 by 38-inch footprint.
- You’ll want a subscription to iFIT programming with this treadmill, and that membership comes with an additional $39 monthly fee after a free month trial.
The 1750 is one of the best NordicTrack treadmills out there. With a 60-inch running deck, taller runners or those with longer strides will have room to move. The 14-inch touchscreen can tilt, improving your view based on your height. And, it can swivel, so you can take classes off of your treadmill. This treadmill has an overall score of 4.5 out of 5, one of the highest overall scores out of over 40 treadmills that we’ve tested. Durability, customizations, workout experience, and tech capabilities all scored a 5 out of 5 for us. (Can you tell we love this treadmill?)
This treadmill is iFIT compatible, viewed through the tilting touchscreen, giving users access to over 17,000 workouts. This subscription comes with a monthly membership of $39 after a free month’s trial. We think this is a worthwhile investment, and if you’re not interested in iFIT programming, perhaps you may want to consider an alternative treadmill since its compatibility is a big selling point. Dynamic programming and ergonomics scored a 5 out of 5. For more information on the NordicTrack 1750’s tech features, check out our video from our expert reviewer, Jake Herod, below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eR4J8l0_4Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review (2022) — BEST Of The Best? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eR4J8l0_4)
The 12 miles per hour max speed and -3 to 12 percent incline are powered by a 3.5 CHP motor, stronger than the 3.0 CHP motors we recommend for serious racers. Certified personal trainer and Barbend editorial member Kate Meier took the 1750 for a spin utilizing an iFIT workout. “On screen, the trainer started running downhill and the treadmill adjusted so I felt like I was right there with them,” they said. With iFIT’s AutoAdjust features, your treadmill adjusts its speed and incline based on your trainer’s commands. Workout experience and tech capabilities scored a 5 out of 5.
“While the four-figure price tag may not be everyone’s idea of budget-friendly, I truly do think this is one of the best buys for the money…The main drawback… is its footprint. It’s large and heavy, so definitely ensure your space can fit it,” noted certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto. At 80-inches long and 38-inches wide, the 1750 is 3-inches longer and wider than the average treadmill.
Read the full NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review.
Best Treadmill for Tall Runners with Interactive Programming: ProForm Pro 9000
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.
Shop ProForm
...
Click here to view the article.
