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True Fitness Unveils the Ultimate ZTX Treadmill
True Fitness
The ZTX console features a patented TouchSensor keypad which uses sealed, moisture and contaminant-proof digital touch switches certified as fail-safe by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Photo by Bob Moore, SLFP.com

Betty Magrath, SLFP.com
Photo by Bob Moore, SLFP.com

O'FALLON, MO, (SLFP.com), Nov 15, 2001 - When you think of the Audi TT, the Jaguar XKR and the Porche 911, what comes to mind is style, precision and power. Machines designed to be driven by car enthusiasts.

Like a fine automobile, the new ZTX treadmill from True Fitness Technology, Inc. features sleek styling, smoothness and precision. It's S-drive system is designed to be used by fitness enthusiasts.

The ZTX model features a unique hydroformed steel pedestal design instead of the more commonly used tubing and extrusions. "It's more like the fender on a car as far as its weight and form," stated Marshall Hansen, southeast regional sales manager for True Fitness. "The unique feature on this treadmill is the field effects. You simply touch the switch and it instantly starts moving," said Hansen in a demonstration at the True Fitness headquarters in O'Fallon, MO.

"This has a lap counter and a manual mode that can be moved into different programable modes. As you change the buttons, it changes the workout profile. We have heart-rate control so that people can train with a specific target heart-rate to maximize their workout," Hansen stated.

He explained that the unit has a brushless, DC servomotor that is about one-third the size of a normal DC or AC motor. "The ZTX has incredible power and yet requires less energy in order to drive the system. We could put three people on here, press the on switch and it would start to roll us off the back of the treadmill," stated Hansen enthusiastically.

To demonstrate the operating interior design, Hansen loosened a few bolts and pulled the hood from the six horsepower motor. "With top down servicability, we can easily get to get to every working part of the product, from the deck, the rollers and the belt," he said.

True Fitness
The ZTX is the first treadmill ever to feature a brushless DC servomotor and controller drive system with similar technology to that found in machine tool applications, according to True founder Frank Trulaske. Photo courtesy of True Fitness
The ZTX weights in at nearly 400 lbs. and features a stable, low-impact running surfaces of 23" x 63". It will reach a maximum speed of 15 mph and offers a 15-degree incline. "The key issue for people who use fold-up treadmills versus our treadmill is that if it's out of sight, it's out of mind," noted Hansen. "There is one more obstacle to using it if you have to set it up. The benefit of buying a True Treadmill is that it will be used on a regular basis. You don't have to get in your car and drive to the gym. You can hop on the treadmill in the comfort, security and safety of your own home."

"As far as we are concerned, it's the only true treadmill on the market. It's quiet, soft and efficient." Speaking with confidence for the treadmill durability, Hansen said that it has a five-year parts warranty on the lower electronic board and the drive motor.

Stephen Ward, director of product development for True Fitness, commented that design of the motor was the result of a partnership with Pacific Scientific division of Danaher Corp. "This 'can't quit'; can't fail' industrial design for a fitness product far exceeds the horsepower rating of any treadmill on the market," said Ward.

"Our treadmills are typically triangular shaped. In keeping with that theme, True Fitness Designer Dan Moon came up with an aesthetically beautiful looking machine. Through hydroforming, the development department was able to use his design and create actual reality."

"The ZTX going to lead the industry as far as looks is concerned," concluded Ward.

The ZTX Model commercial treadmill series was unveiled, Nov 15, at the Club Industry Show in Chicago. The club-quality product is being released December 10th for the commercial market and will be available for the home market sometime in March 2002. Retail commercial prices will be from $5,995 to $6,895 and home use from $4,800 to $5,500.

The company currently employees nearly 230 people at its 131,00 sq. ft. plant in O'Fallon. The company is building a 100,000 sq. ft warehouse nearby to house its products which include treadmills, upright bikes, recumbent bikes, ellipitical trainers and within the next six months strength products. More than 200 U.S. dealers and 29 offshore distributors market True products in over 325 domestic stores and in 34 countries.Red Dot

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