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 Trainer 720 Treadmill is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the ProForm Carbon T7 as the best alternative, or view our Best Treadmills Under $1,000 roundup for more options.
Do I get weirdly sad about things that are gone for no discernible reason? Yes, yes I do. This explains why I feel nostalgic for things of yesteryear, like playing Old Maid with my grandma, elementary school ice-cream parties, and even treadmills that have gone sayonara, like the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720.
Most of us know Gold’s Gym as the birthplace of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s bodybuilding career, but this iconic brand has done more than just provide a platform for the Terminator. Although it doesn’t appear that they make any type of gym equipment anymore, Gold’s Gym did previously produce benches, home gyms, exercise bikes, and even treadmills for the general public.
In this Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 treadmill review, I’ll detail all the information you need to know about this discontinued cardio machine (plus, offer a currently produced alternative).
We Have Gold-Medal Treadmill Knowledge
GGR may not have participated in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but we sure know what it means to write gold medal-worthy reviews on fitness equipment. After all, we’re a group of certified personal trainers, former college athletes, and nutrition coaches. We know fitness and have the experience and certifications to put our (imaginary) gold medal where our mouth is.
Looking for an Alternative to the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill?
If you’re looking for a treadmill with similar specs to the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720, I’d recommend the ProForm Carbon T7. This machine has the same incline and speed options as the 720, as well as the exact deck dimensions. You’ll also be treated to a slightly more powerful motor (but not by much) and an upgraded seven-inch touchscreen on the Carbon T7.
RELATED: Best Treadmill with TV Screen
Best Alternative to Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill
ProForm Carbon T7 Folding Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Compact and foldable
- Cushioned running deck for longer runs
- Integrated speakers
- Cooling fans
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact
- Foldable
- Cushioned running deck
- Integrated speakers
- Cooling fans
- Free 30-day iFIT membership
- Financing available
Cons
- No onboard pre-programmed workouts
- Smaller running surface
Bottom Line
The ProForm Carbon T7 is an affordable folding treadmill with nice cushioning. Its folding design, added conveniences, and optionality for interactive programming are attractive to those with limited floor space.
A Quick Look at the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill
The Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 is no longer in production, and the brand doesn’t appear to be making treadmills or other exercise equipment anymore. When browsing the gym’s website, I noticed that they only have information about their actual in-person gyms and currently purchasable apparel. However, you can still buy a smattering of older strength training equipment on Walmart’s website and at other online retailers.
If you’re able to get your hands on the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 (or you’re just curious about what this defunct treadmill model has to offer), keep reading to find out what we think:
Pros:
- 300-lb user weight capacity
- Lifetime frame warranty
- 18 preset workout programs
- Budget price tag
- Foldable
- Dual cup holders
- 0-10% incline
- Handlebars have heart rate monitoring
- Intuitive display for beginners
- Cooling workout fan
Cons:
- 2.5 CHP motor
- Heavy at 203 lbs
- Reviewers report it is difficult to assemble
Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill Specs
Price range | Under $1,000 |
Footprint | 73.3” L x 35.7” W x 68.1” H |
Weight | 203 lbs |
Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
Speed range | 0-10 MPH |
Incline options | 0-10% |
Warranty | Lifetime warranty on frame, 25-year motor warranty, 1-year parts and labor warranty |
Pre-programmed workouts | 18 |
Running area | 20” W x 55” L |
Music port | Yes; for iPods |
Quickselect buttons | Yes; both for speed and incline |
Bluetooth | No |
Display | Window LED display |
Motor | 2.5 CHP |
Key Features of the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill
Although I haven’t personally been on the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 treadmill, I can deduce things about its performance based on the specs. When in production, this treadmill was under $600, which makes it a budget machine.
Besides being relatively affordable, the 720 also features 10 incline options and a 10 mile-per-hour speed maximum. These are both in line with the current treadmill industry standards. You’ll also notice a 20-inch-by-55-inch deck, which is ideal for walkers, joggers, and shorter runners. I generally prefer a 60-inch deck for a treadmill for tall runners, but 55 inches isn’t the end of the world.
RELATED: Best Treadmill for Heavy People
You won’t find a touchscreen on the 720, but you will be able to use the intuitive, LCD display. This display shows typical metrics like calories burned, distance traveled, incline, and speed alongside handy jump buttons. If you’re someone who enjoys HIIT or just wants to change settings quickly, jump buttons can be quite handy.
I’m impressed with the 300-pound weight limit on the 720, which hits the industry standard for what we expect to see. It is worth noting that this machine is relatively heavy at 203 pounds, so you’ll likely need another set of hands to help you move it (in addition to the assistance provided by the included transport wheels).
This machine, like many other residential treadmills, is able to be compacted for easy storage. Thanks to the gas shock on the underside of the deck, this machine can be gently folded and unfolded in a snap. Even better? You won’t have to worry about the 720’s deck slamming down and crushing your big toe.
RELATED: Best Foldable Treadmill
Footprint, Portability, and Durability
Although the 720 isn’t what I’d call extremely portable, it can still be moved with relative ease. I do suggest grabbing an extra friend or two, especially if you plan to bring it up or down flights of stairs. Since you don’t need to worry about having to leave this machine fully expanded all the time, it is a viable option for small spaces. If you’re in a condo or an average-sized apartment, I think the 720 would likely fit just fine.
Although a treadmill’s true durability can’t be tested without many years of use, the offered warranty will generally clue you in to what you can expect. In the case of the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720, you get a lifetime frame warranty and a 25-year motor warranty.
This is what we expect to see on high-end treadmills, so to see it on a budget machine is impressive. However, if you were to get your hands on this machine today, I’m not sure how you’d be able to cash in on the warranty (since Gold’s Gym doesn’t make treadmills anymore).
Technology Benefits and Conveniences
Since this is an older treadmill, there aren’t lots of the tech-y features you may be used to seeing on more modern machines. For example, take the included iPod jack. Maybe you still rock out with your iPod Nano or Shuffle (in which case, you’re in luck), but if you don’t, this is a useless feature.
I do like the intuitive and simple LCD display, but it certainly isn’t a touchscreen. You also won’t find on-demand interactive programming, but you can choose between 18 different preset workout options.
You’ll also find a few other conveniences onboard the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 such as:
- Coolaire workout fan
- Dual speakers
- Safety key
- AirStride cushioning
- Heart rate monitor built-in to handles
Final Verdict of Our Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill Review
For the price, this is a nice, entry-level treadmill. You’ll get an excellent warranty, a solid user weight capacity, and decent incline and speed options. However, you do have to compromise on technology features and motor horsepower.
If you’re able to pick this treadmill up for a reasonable price on the secondhand market, it doesn’t seem to be a bad buy. Just be aware of what you’re getting: A budget-friendly treadmill without many bells and whistles.
Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill Rating
Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill
If you’re interested in an alternative to the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill, check out the ProForm Carbon T7 Treadmill.
Product Brand: Gold's Gym
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 1403
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.71
Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 Treadmill FAQs
How much does a Gold’s Gym Treadmill weigh?
There is no one set weight for a Gold’s Gym treadmill. The brand has produced a variety of treadmills, and no two are exactly alike, which is to be expected.
For example, take NordicTrack’s treadmills. They produce huge machines, like the NordicTrack Elite, which is 520 pounds. On the other hand, NordicTrack also makes smaller treadmills, like the NordicTrack C 700, which only weighs 199 pounds. This shows that brands often make multiple treadmills that vary widely in weight.
What is the best treadmill for a home gym?
After many years of testing, here are our picks for the best treadmill:
Best Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Best Treadmill Under $1500: Sole F63
Best Treadmill for Running: ProForm Pro 9000
Best Treadmill for Walkers: TrueForm Trainer
Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
Best Folding Treadmill: Echelon Fitness Stride
Best Streaming Treadmill: ProForm Carbon T10
Does the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 treadmill have a spacesaver design?
Yes, the Gold’s Gym Trainer 720 can be folded for easier storage. This spacesaver design is also helpful when it is time to move this machine up or down a flight of stairs.
Further reading
Cardio can take many forms, but to be considered cardio, the exercise must increase heart rate, oxygen use, blood flow, and engage large muscle groups. Read more
Regardless of the holiday or occasion, if you have a gym-going friend that enjoys lifting weights, here is our guide to the best gifts for bodybuilders. Read more
Our Transparent Labs protein review will let you know whether this protein powder is worth the cost and what’s really inside each container. Read more
Can You Use a ProForm Treadmill Without iFIT? We have the answers you need. Read more