We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.

Editor’s Note: The Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the Sunny Health And Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400 as the best alternative, or view our Best Treadmills Under $400 roundup for more options.

If you are on the hunt for a budget treadmill, you may have stumbled across the Gold’s Gym GG480. This Gold’s Gym trainer used to sell for around $350 at stores like Walmart or other local fitness equipment stores, however it is now discontinued as Gold’s Gym has started making newer models like the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720. 

We are going to take a deeper look into the Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill review by giving you the facts and offering an alternative for somebody looking to buy a comparable treadmill that is on the market. 

We Know Treadmills 

As certified personal trainers, endurance athletes, and fitness enthusiasts, our team here spends a lot of time working out. We know a thing or two about treadmills and treadmill workouts because gyms are our second homes. It is our job to give you the facts so you can make the most informed decisions when it comes to purchasing your own treadmill. 

Looking for an Alternative to Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill?

Best Alternative to Gold's Gym GG480 Treadmill

Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400

GGR Score: 3.6 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Under $500
  • Has manual incline options
  • Compact and folds
  • Speeds up to 9 MPH

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Has incline
  • Folds easily
  • Very compact
  • Tread comes with shock absorption
  • Quick-speed buttons on the handrail

Cons

  • User weight capacity is 220 lbs
  • Top speed of 9 MPH
  • No decline option

Bottom Line

A great walking treadmill that can be easily folded and used in small spaces.

If you are looking for a comparably priced treadmill, we suggest the Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400, which is priced at under $400 on Amazon. We have tested and used this machine at length and thinks it’s a good budget treadmill. 

You may notice that the 2.2 HP motor on the SF-T4400 is not quite as strong as the 2.5 CHP motor you see on the GG480, but these are both excellent walking treadmills if walking is your preferred form of cardio. You will find that both of these treadmills are able to be folded to help with your storage needs. 

A Quick Look at the Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill

At this price, you can expect a baseline treadmill, and the Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill is a great example of a cardio machine that provides the basics so you can get your workouts in. The Trainer 480 is highlighted by its 300-pound maximum user weight limit and Airstride Plus Cushioning system to protect your knees. The tread belt clocks in at 18 inches wide by 50 inches long. When it was available, it was sold with a set of 1-pound hand weight dumbbells to use as part of your workout program. When you are all finished with your workout for the day, don’t forget that the Trainer 480 is also a folding treadmill to help you save on storage space.

Pros: 

  • Around $350
  • 0-15% incline 
  • Powerplus heart rate monitor 
  • 8 built-in workout programs 
  • Spacesaver design 
  • Airstride Plus cushioning system 
  • 300-lb weight capacity 

Cons: 

  • 90-day parts and labor warranty 
  • 2.5 CHP G-Force motor not for serious runners 
  • Small 50” W X 18” L treadmill deck 

Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill Specs

FootprintUnlisted
WeightUnlisted
Weight capacity300 lb
Motor2.5 CHP G-Force 
Belt size50” W X 18” L 
Incline and decline0-15% Incline
FoldableYes
Speed range0-10 mph
DisplayClear View DisplayNot Backlight Racetrack monitor 
Programming8 built-in programs 

Key Features of the Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill

The main distinguishing factor of this treadmill is the low price. Unlike many other cardio machines, even ellipticals, this treadmill even comes with a pair of 1-pound hand weight dumbbells to help you elevate your workout to a new dimension. You will also find a 0-15% incline ability as well as a speed range of 0-10 miles per hour. 

The Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill is also highlighted by what the brand calls “Airstride Plus” cushioning. A cushioned treadmill is great for people who are trying to put less stress on their knees and other joints. When you are all finished with your workout, you can store this treadmill away by using the spacesaver design to help it fold away. 

Footprint, Portability, and Durability

If you are looking for a simple and reliable machine, the  Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill could be the best move for you. While the 2.5 CHP G- Force motor may not be the best for running, it is reliable for walking and jogging. The tread belt is on the smaller side at 18 inches wide by 50 inches long. 


This being said, the weight capacity is 300 pounds, which is great for a treadmill of this size and price. For easy storage of this fitness machine, you are also able to fold up the treadmill using the spacesaver design. The warranty is 90 days parts and labor and 5 years on the motor. 

Ergonomics

As a basic treadmill, this cardio machine is not meant to be flashy. However, reviewers were impressed by the Airstride Plus cushioning as providing a more comfortable experience. This design is meant to help prevent injuries, protect your joints, and add an element of comfort to your stride. 

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

The Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill comes with a non-backlit, blue-tinted ClearView display console. You can track how far you’ve been with a racetrack display and you can also watch your heart rate using the Powerpulse Heart Rate Monitor on the grips. On the console you will find eight built-in workout programs: four are weight loss workouts and four are performance workouts. 

There are no built-in comfort features on this machine. 

Final Verdict of Our Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill Review

If you are looking for a little more bells and whistles, you may be looking to spend closer to $600 on your treadmill. However, this is a decent machine for the price you pay. You can trust the machine for reliable walking to help you reach your fitness goals! 

Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill Rating

Gold's Gym GG480 Treadmill

In our Gold’s Gym GG480 review, we break down this now-discontinued treadmill and offer alternatives.

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 384.99

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3

Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill

Value – 4.5
Footprint and portability – 4
Durability – 3
Customizations – 2
Adjustability and ergonomics – 4
Tech capabilities – 2.5
Conveniences – 1
Sunny Health And Fitness (SF-T4400) Treadmill

Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill FAQs

Which treadmill is used in Gold’s Gym?

From what we know, Gold’s Gym uses LifeFitness for their cardio machines. The model of the treadmill will vary from location to location. 

How much does a Gold’s Gym treadmill weigh?

The Gold’s Gym Trainer 430i weighs 60 pounds, but the weight will be different depending on the model and size of the motor. 

Is ProForm the same as Gold’s Gym?

These are two separate things. ProForm is a cardio equipment company owned by iFIT. Gold’s Gym is a chain of commercial gyms, and the brand also produces its own fitness equipment.

Further reading

Aviron Strong Series Rower Review: A Smart, Fun Rower Worth Checking Out Cover Image
Aviron Strong Series Rower Review: A Smart, Fun Rower Worth Checking Out

Our Aviron Strong Series Rower review takes an in-depth look at Aviron’s newest smart rower. Read more

28-Day Workout Challenge: Four Weeks of Progress and Accountability Cover Image
28-Day Workout Challenge: Four Weeks of Progress and Accountability

Is your fitness routine getting stale? Challenge yourself with our 28-day workout challenge with progressions and accountability built right in. Read more

Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike Review (2024): Great Hardware in Need of Software Upgrade Cover Image
Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike Review (2024): Great Hardware in Need of Software Upgrade

Editor’s Note: The Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the Sunny Health And Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400 as the best alternative, or view our Best Treadmills Under $400 roundup for more options.If you are on the hunt for a budget treadmill,  » Read more about: Gold’s Gym GG480 Treadmill Review (2024)  » Read more

How To Do the Wall Sit Exercise: Best Techniques and Variations Cover Image
How To Do the Wall Sit Exercise: Best Techniques and Variations

Build strength in your lower body and improve your mental toughness with the wall sit exercise. Read more