How is the TrueForm Runner different from the TrueForm Trainer?
In this article we'll take an in-depth look at the TrueForm Runner vs TrueForm Trainer debate, comparing all the similarities and differences of each model.
TrueForm first burst onto the manual treadmill scene with their signature TrueForm Runner curved treadmill in 2013.
Crossfit, metabolic conditioning and HIIT style training have made manual treadmills largely popular in recent years.
Curved manual treadmill promote good posture, core strength and ideal running form - making them perfect for athletes or everyday men and women looking to stay healthy!
The TrueForm treadmill is now an iconic manual treadmill seen all over the world, in all different types of facilities.
Despite its success, the price point of the TrueForm Runner does not fit the needs of every buyer. Enter the TrueForm Trainer - a more budget friendly manual treadmill. But how does it really stack up to the original?
TrueForm Runner vs Trueform Trainer Similarities
The TrueForm Runner and TrueForm Trainer both share the same branding and product type - they're manual treadmills. However, that's about where the similarities end when you stack the two up against each other.
Manual treadmills rely on self-generated power, aka the power you produce by using the machine. This means that neither TrueForm treadmill has electrical components (outside of the display) and they do not need to be plugged in.
The actual floor space of the two treadmills does not differ too much. The Runner is 36" W x 64" L x 63" H, while the Trainer is a little narrower at 31" W with the same length and height. Both the Trainer and the Runner also share a 17" wide runner surface for the user.
Each treadmill has a durable, heavy-duty steel formed and welded frame.
Neither TrueForm model requires much assembly. They're shipped about 90% built and includes instructions, parts and tools to complete the build once you receive your treadmill.
We can also include that both treadmills have transport wheels, however the Runner has a sufficiently more capable pair. In general, this is not a big deal if you're keeping the unit in place more than moving it around your gym.
Keep in mind, both of these units are heavy and moving them around is not easy regardless of the wheel type.
TrueForm Runner vs TrueForm Trainer Differences
Key Difference #1 - Overall Build
We can start this off by saying the TrueForm Runner is an absolute tank of a manual treadmill. It is overbuilt in essentially every possible way, and is proudly made in the USA (in Connecticut). It is heavier, quieter and more sensitive than it's counterpart.
The TrueForm Trainer is made in Samsara's Korean factory. The Trainer is made with some lighter materials and is slightly more easy to use. Even though the TrueForm Trainer is value-engineered at every level, it is still a high-quality, commercial machine.
Key Difference #2 - The Weight and User Capacity
The Trainer weighs 270lbs, almost a 100lb difference from the Runner. It has a user weight capacity of 400lbs whether walking or running
The TrueForm Runner boasts 400lb user weight capacity for running, while if you're just walking you'll be safe up to 700lbs!
Key Difference #3 - The Covers
The TrueForm Runner is covered with a single piece of aluminum that has been formed and welded to cover the internal mechanisms of the treadmill. This makes the unit incredibly durable, and the aesthetics of the Runner will hold up very well over time.
The TrueForm Trainer's cover is made from plastic, a single formed reinforced polymer. This looks great when it's brand new, but will be more susceptible to scratches, dings, dents and cracks over time and heavy use.
For a residential space, this might not be a big deal. In heavily used and trafficked commercial gyms, this is definitely something to think about!
Key Difference #4 - The Tread & Running Surface
The standard tread surface of the TrueForm Runner is made of bonded Kraiburg Thermolast Rubber by Smith and Wesson. This is an extremely durable and slip-resistant running surface that is produced in an environmentally-friendly manner.
You also have the option to customize your running surface with the Runner. You can choose from green artificial turf or red running track, making it sport-specific. There is also another option - a Naboso surface.
Naboso is a tech material used for proprioceptive mats and insoles. The material was created to optimize foot and neuro activation when walking and running (surface must be used barefoot).
The TrueForm Trainer's tread surface is made from molded thermoplastic elastomer. This rubber belt is super durable but not as high-end as the Trainer's surface.
At this time, there are no tread surface customization options for the Trainer.
Key Difference #5 - The Display
The TrueForm Runner features a bright LED display that is powered from a battery in the base of the machine. The display measures Pace, Speed, Distance (mi & km), and Time.
Overall, it is probably the weakest feature on the Runner and is something that should be given more design effort by TrueForm.
The TrueForm Trainer might honestly win this category. It has a basic LCD display that provides all of the same readouts as the Runner with the added capability of heart rate.
The LCD display is extremely low maintenance and runs on AA batteries making it easy to use.
Key Difference #6 - The Warranty
The TrueForm Runner boasts a lifetime warranty on its frame, 10 years on its parts and 2 years on the LCD display. You can't really ask for a better treadmill warranty than this.
The TrueForm Trainer holds just a 5-year warranty across the board on the entire treadmill, which may be sufficient for some users. However, it pales in comparison to the Runners warranty.
TrueForm Runner vs TrueForm Trainer Comparison Chart
TrueForm Runner |
TrueForm Trainer |
|
| Dimensions | 64" L x 36" W x 63" H | 64" L x 31" W x 63" H |
| Running Surface Width | 17" Wide | 17" Wide |
| Product Weight | 360lbs | 270lbs |
| Max User Weight | 400lbs Running 700lbs Walking |
400lbs |
| Self Generated Power | ||
| Frame | 7-gauge Steel Formed & Welded | Steel Plate Formed & Welded |
| Covers | Single Piece Aluminum, Formed & Welded | Single Formed Reinforced Polymer (Plastic) |
| Standard Tread Surface | Bonded Kraiburg Thermolast by Smith and Wesson | Molded Thermoplastic Elastomer |
| Custom Tread Surface Options | ||
| Bearings | 106 Sealed Steel Ball Bearings | 112 Sealed Steel Ball Bearings |
| Pulleys | Tooled Solid Aluminum | Injection Molded Polymer |
| Display | Bright LED Display with Rechargeable Batteries | LCD Display with AA Batteries |
| Display Readings | Pace, Speed, Distance (mi & km), Time | Pace, Speed, Distance (mi & km), Time, Heart Rate |
| Transport Wheels | ||
| Minimal Assembly | ||
| Extreme Low Maintenance | ||
| Made in the USA | ||
| Frame Warranty | Lifetime | 5 Years |
| Tread Warranty | 10 Years | 5 Years |
| Display Warranty | 2 Years | 5 Years |
TrueForm Runner vs TrueForm Trainer Conclusion
Honestly, by this point you've probably realized that you can't go wrong with either option. Both the TrueForm Runner and TrueForm Trainer are amazing curved manual treadmills at the top of the industry.
If you're putting this in a commercial facility - college, crossfit box, or even a mid-sized training facility, the TrueForm Runner has to be on your radar.
For the regular home gym owner, the Runner may be overbuilt and out of your price range, but it will certainly last a lifetime.
We don't want to downplay the quality of the Trainer - it is a great manual treadmill at a great price point. In the end, the TrueForm Runner is just THAT much better when you put them side-by-side.
If you've decided on one of these models, check out the links below:
