ProForm 730: a budget treadmill then - and what that means now

The ProForm 730 was a budget treadmill aimed at beginners and walkers. It offered basic features, impact cushioning, and an affordable price, but it used lower-end components and carried limited warranty protection. Today, buyers should check parts availability and current brand support before purchasing a used unit; those who need heavy running or long-term durability should consider newer midrange models with stronger motors and longer warranties.

Overview

The ProForm 730 was introduced as an entry-level treadmill aimed at walkers and casual users who wanted a low-cost way to exercise at home. Its appeal came from an affordable price and a basic feature set that let people start a cardio routine without a large upfront investment.

What it offered

The 730 followed a typical budget-treadmill blueprint: a modest motor, a compact folding deck, basic speed and incline controls, and simpler electronics. Reviews and owner reports from the era highlighted the machine as a practical "starter" treadmill for walking, short jogs, or as a transition piece for people beginning a fitness program.

The deck included padding to reduce impact compared with running on hard surfaces. That made the 730 a reasonable choice for users who wanted joint protection while they built endurance.

Strengths

• Low initial cost: The model targeted buyers on a budget.

• Simple operation: Straightforward controls and few bells and whistles made it easy to use.

• Suitable for walking and light jogging: Good for beginners or people who use a treadmill primarily for short, regular walks.

Common drawbacks

• Durability concerns: Older budget treadmills - including the 730 - used less robust components than higher-end models. Some owners reported breakdowns or the need for replacement parts after several years of use.

• Limited warranty: The 730 shipped with a limited warranty typical of economical machines; that offered some protection but usually less coverage than commercial or premium home treadmills.

• Not ideal for heavy running: If you plan sustained high-speed running or frequent long workouts, a treadmill with a stronger motor and sturdier frame is a safer long-term choice.

Who should consider it

The ProForm 730 made sense for a buyer who wanted an inexpensive, space-saving treadmill for walking or light jogging, or for someone who needed a short-term solution while they evaluated a longer-term investment in fitness equipment.

What to watch for today

• Parts and service: The 730 is a legacy model, so replacement parts and model-specific servicing may be limited or routed through secondary markets. ¹

• Warranty and ownership: Brand ownership and warranty policies have changed over the years; check current ProForm / parent-company support channels before buying a used unit. ²

• Alternatives: For users who expect heavier use, modern midrange treadmills now offer stronger motors, better cushioning systems, longer warranties, and connected training options through subscriptions.

Bottom line

The ProForm 730 delivered a low-cost entry point to treadmill exercise. For walkers and casual users who prioritize price and simplicity, it could be a practical choice - so long as buyers accept the tradeoffs in parts quality, long-term durability, and warranty coverage. If you expect heavy use or want long-term reliability, consider newer midrange models or current ProForm machines with explicit warranty and parts support. ³

1. Confirm current ownership/parent company and support channels for the ProForm brand.
2. Verify specific warranty terms that originally came with the ProForm 730 (length and coverage).
3. Check whether the ProForm 730 deck included a named cushioning system and the technical specifications of that system.
4. Confirm availability of parts and service options for the ProForm 730 today.