Among the least understood parts of the fitness equipment industry is the different levels of equipment and what they mean. And because there is a level of confusion, a lot of brands take advantage of this.
But there are reasons you can purchase a treadmill at $899 from an online dealer or spend $16999 for the top rated Technogym Unity 7000 commercial model. Similarly, there are reasons and differences in what you get for a $250 tinfoil utility bench from Dicks or a Panattasport commercial utility bench at $1275(+freight!).
There are, broadly, three 'quality and use' categories in the world of fitness equipment, as well as some smaller sub-categories. The main levels are, 'Residential', 'Vertical-Market', and 'Full Commercial'.
The broadest and easiest differentiation here is based on warranty. Residential equipment is not made for any type of facility, so it carries zero warranty into those higher use areas. Even if the manufacturer is being deceptive and putting the word 'commercial' in the name of the product. This piece of complete deception is actually common, by the way. Residential use is normally limited to less than 2 hours of use a day and can only be placed inside a residence,
Let me say also that there are a lot of levels within the 'Residential' category. There are vast differences, in warranty, cushioning, repair rate, acceleration, and noise between a $1500 fold-up department store treadmill and a top-rated Landice L8 with an ortho belt at $6600.
The Vertical Market is non-dues-paying facilities. Municipal buildings, Hospitality, Multifamily common area gyms, schools and colleges, training studios, Corporate gyms...things like that. Vertical Market products are generally made for heavier users, and longer use, up to 6 or 8 hours of use a day. Some strength brands throw a vertical warranty onto strength equipment that shouldn't, gambling it will survive, and you should always ask your dealer if the piece is REALLY built for the heavier use.
Full-Commercial Use is a dues-paying piece with a much higher tolerance for user size as well as athletic use, and full day usage. A full-commercial piece is warranteed for nearly any use. It does not mean the technology is better, nor does it always mean the biomechanics are superior (especially true in treadmill cushioning). It does mean it is made for the heaviest duty use.
There is a lot more that can be said about this, and I'll go into that later. For now, always look at the warranty details to see what type of use it is really made for, check the parts warranty and wear items warranty, and always purchase cardio equipment especially from a local dealer who services it.
Happy workouts! Connect with me if you have any questions.
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