AssaultRunner Pro Review, Tested by Our Fitness Experts

On many of the best treadmills, you’re along for the ride. You power on the motor and try to keep up. On the AssaultRunner Pro, however, you are the motor. Leading with the ball of your foot, you provide the force that propels the belt along its curved deck. This design leaves it to you to regulate the intensity of your training. As a result, you can potentially torch calories faster, while also improving your running form.

Our tester owns the AssaultRunner Elite, the AssaultRunner Pro’s pricier sibling, and it’s been their go-to treadmill for over two years. But, aside from some added conveniences and a $1,000 price hike, the AssaultRunner Pro is more twin than little brother. We think the curved design and heavy belt of both models are ideal for seasoned runners looking to level up their interval training while also fine-tuning their gait. Read our AssaultRunner Pro review below to see if this manual tread deserves a spot in your training regimen.

Main Takeaways

• The heavy, shock-absorbent belt and curved deck of this manual treadmill can better replicate the experience of running outdoors while helping refine your form.
• It lacks the conveniences often seen on motorized treadmills, like bottle holders, fans, or speakers.
• The comparatively steep curve of this model’s deck makes it more accessible than other curved treadmills on the market. 

AssaultRunner Pro Highlights

After spending significant time on the Pro, BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto thinks being in control of the intensity also makes it more enjoyable. “Man, the AssaultRunner Pro is just a fun machine to run on,” she says. “As an on-and-off CrossFitter, I’ve spent my fair share of time on the AssaultRunner Pro, and I have a blast every time I use one.” 

[Related: Best Treadmills for Running]

In addition to ramping up the fun, the user-powered design of this treadmill can potentially help you burn more calories than you would during comparable workouts on a motorized treadmill. (1) Studies have also shown that curved treadmills can help you follow a more natural gait. (2)  The steep curve of Pro’s deck helps encourages a mid-foot strike, leading to a heel pull that can target the hamstrings.

In fact, it was that steep curve and heavy belt that earned the AssaultRunner Pro a 4 out of 5 for ergonomics from our tester. On non-motorized treadmills, you can count on the cardiovascular health benefits provided by traditional models, but the increase in intensity has been shown to increase VO₂ max and cardiometabolic demand. (3)(4)(5)

While our tester agrees with Capritto that manual treadmills can be more fun, they also think they require a bit of practice. “There’s a bit of a learning curve,” they noted. “It’s worth taking some time to get used to the machine before trying to work it into your training.” If your kind of training tends to involve trainer-led studio classes — think Peloton or iFIT — you might find the running workouts on the Pro a tad basic. 

But if you want to cut through the fluff and frill to fine-tune your form, Capritto thinks the Pro is a step in the right direction. “This manual treadmill offers such a different experience compared to motor-powered [treadmills],” she says. “I love how the AssaultRunner Pro encourages me to maintain good running form and feels more like running outdoors, but brings all the benefits of running indoors.”

Training With the AssaultRunner Pro

Running on a curved, user-powered treadmill like the AssaultRunner Pro can better replicate the experience of running outdoors than motorized models. And not only can this design help refine your form, but studies have shown that the increased effort required to maintain your pace can potentially torch more calories than you would running at the same speed on a motorized treadmill. (1) 

Our tester has spent years training on the AssaultRunner Elite, which is nearly identical to the Pro. “​​The Pro model is super similar to the Assault Runner Elite, but it’s just about $1,000 less expensive,” they noted. Given that similarity, they felt confident following BarBend’s equipment testing methodology to score the Pro on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 categories, including ergonomics, tech capabilities, value, and more.

Curved, User-Powered Design

Wrapped around the AssaultRunner Pro’s curved deck is a slatted, heavy rubber belt that’s made for intense training. When stepping on it, users don’t fire it up with a button, but rather the force of their own stride. The curved deck forces the user to practice proper form by leading with the ball of their foot and engaging their core in order to get the deck moving. At least one study has shown that this design requires users to work about 30 percent harder, leading to a higher rate of calories burned. (5)

For those just starting out on a curved treadmill, our tester thinks that the heavier-than-average belt on the Pro makes for a great starting point. “I think it’s good for beginners because running on the heavier belt is easier to build up momentum,” they explained. “It kind of has a bit of a flywheel effect. Once I get it going, it doesn’t require me to pull backwards with my toe or hamstring like a lighter belt would.”

If you’ve been running on traditional treadmills, there can be an adjustment period. Our tester rated their comfort level a 3.5 out of 5, but pointed out two aspects of the design that help out. “It is harder than running on a treadmill with a motor, but the heavier belt, along with the incline of the curve, makes it more comfortable,” they said.  

Many customer reviews agree. “I prefer the Runner over a motorized treadmill, which I also have, because I feel that I am working harder for every calorie,” reads one five-star Amazon review. 

Belt Weight

Compared to the lighter treads of other curved treadmills — like the TrueForm Trainer Treadmill — the hefty belt on the AssaultRunner Pro assists in maintaining the momentum you worked so hard to build. The belt itself is made of thick rubber slats and once you get it going, the inertia it creates helps it continue to spin so you won’t be constantly exerting maximum effort.

Our tester has felt this themselves, noting that it can be helpful for athletes who need time to refine their form. “On something with a heavier tread, like the AssaultRunner Pro, you don’t have to focus as much on form,” our tester said. “Once it gets going, it takes less effort to keep it in motion, so it can be easier to learn on a lighter tread.”

The other side of the coin is slowing the belt down on this type of treadmill. The momentum built up by the heavy belt requires more force or time to slow down. Our tester reported that repositioning their feet can help slow it down. “Like any treadmill, you can just use the rails to lift your feet off the belt and step on the side rails. But one thing I learned was how to actually slow the belt down,” they said. “Again, it takes some getting used to, but changing where your foot strikes the belt can help slow the belt faster.”

The Pro’s big brother, the AssaultRunner Elite, comes with an upgraded lifetime warranty on the belt itself. The Pro features the same belt, but comes with a 150,000-mile warranty. Either way, it’s clear that Assault Fitness believes in the quality of its products. 

Durable Build

The Assault AirRunner has a sturdy steel frame built to withstand heavy training from athletes up to 350 pounds. Our tester was quick to point out that its durable build has made it a darling among elite athletes. “There’s a reason the Pro is used in high-volume settings like CrossFit gyms — it can stand up to heavy use,” they said. 

However, our tester noted one area of the build that could be prone to some damage. “The inner frame is welded steel, but the outside is mostly plastic,” they said. Plastic is certainly more prone to cracking or splitting than solid steel, but our tester has had their AssaultRunner Elite for several years and has noted no issues so far. They scored it a 4 out of 5 for durability. 

[Related: Best Commercial Treadmills]

During their time on the Pro, our tester has discovered other uses for it that less-durable models may not support. “Even beyond running, having such a high weight capacity can let most people execute other movements,” they explained. “I’ve done kettlebell walks, front-rack holds, and farmer’s carries. Of course, only use a weight you’re sure you won’t drop.”

Monitor

Manual treadmills tend to be light on tech, and the Assault Runner Pro is no exception. You will, however, have access to some onboard programs and basic metrics from your workout, including speed, time, calories, watts, pace, and heart rate. The preset training modules include variations of intervals, target modes (like calories, speed, or heart rate), and a competition mode. 

These programs won’t be mistaken for the immersive workouts on an app like iFIT, but that’s not the point. Treadmills like these are geared toward seasoned runners and athletes who may not need hype sessions or trainer-led virtual classes to get them going.

There’s also Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, so you can link up with an app like Zwift or even the Assault Fitness App, which allows you to complete challenges and compete with friends. Tech capabilities scored a 4 out of 5. “The monitor is fine. It can connect to most of the best heart rate monitors, but outside of that, the tech is fairly limited,” our tester said. 

Our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, thinks the simple monitor is a positive. “Though some may see it as a downside, I like that the simple LCD screen isn’t distracting and just shows me what I need.”

What to Consider Before Buying the AssaultRunner Pro

Your main consideration when thinking about bringing home the AssaultRunner Pro treadmill is whether you’re up for the challenge of a non-motorized model. Also, these types of treadmills tend to be pricier than most motorized options, though the Pro’s $2,999 price tag is more approachable than many of its competitors. 

While the AssaultRunner Pro can support proper running form and help simulate outdoor running, BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto notes some drawbacks after her time spinning the tread. “The downsides to this treadmill include the lack of incline/decline training opportunities, as well as the lack of a controlled environment,” she says. “Because it is a manual treadmill, you have to work at maintaining your pace; it won’t set the pace for you.”

Motorized Vs. Manual Treadmill

Since there’s no motor on the AssaultRunner Pro to regulate its speed, your intensity level determines how fast you’ll run. Motorized treadmills are effective, but they provide a more passive experience than a manual treadmill. Consider whether you prefer a more hands-on (feet-on?) approach to your training or whether you prefer to tap a button and let the belt carry you away. 

It’s also worth noting that manual treadmills tend to be more utilitarian machines, as they’re more suited to short bursts of high-intensity effort than longer, more leisurely runs. The best treadmills with screens and app integration tend to be motorized, so if dynamic programming is key to your training, a manual treadmill may not be for you. 

Price

The Pro’s $2,999 price tag is well above the cost of most motorized treadmills. It is, however, affordable, when compared to other curved treadmills, some of which can cost upwards of $4,000. Our tester scored its value a 4 out of 5. “I’m a huge fan of the Pro and the main reason is the price,” they said. “Compared to some non-motorized models that can push up to $10,000, I think it’s at least in the realm of affordability for most people.”

Available Space

Since the AssaultRunner Pro is non-motorized, it requires no electrical outlet, opening up your placement possibilities. That said, it still takes up 16.02 square feet of space. Before you start typing in your credit card information, identify where you’ll likely set up your new treadmill and ask yourself, “Would a couch fit here?” 

The Pro takes up roughly as much room as the average two-seater sofa, so Capritto recommends busting out the measuring tape. (6) “Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position if applicable. And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit!” she says. 

Keep in mind, too, that, even though it has built-in transport wheels, the Pro weighs 280 pounds. Our tester rated its portability a 4.5 out of 5, but still recommends finding a permanent home for your new hunk of steel. “There is a rear handle, which certainly helps maneuver it around furniture or other home gym equipment,” they said. “That doesn’t mean it’s easy though.”

Ordering, Delivery, and Assembly

If you order your AssaultRunner Pro through the Assault Fitness site, you’ll get free shipping in five to seven business days straight to your door via Fedex. However, our tester was quick to point out that the timeframe may vary. “Depending on where you live, it’ll take around a week,” they said. 

Our tester rated delivery and assembly 3.5 out of 5, but appreciated how simple the process was — with one caveat. “After getting everything out of the rather large box, you just have to attach the rails, monitor, legs,” they said. “Every piece is pretty heavy, though, so I would definitely suggest finding a helping set of hands. It only took me and a buddy about a half hour.”

The AssaultRunner Pro Vs. the AssaultRunner Elite

Aside from the $1,000 price hike, the AssaultRunner Elite is not much different than the Pro. Both boast a solid steel frame and identical LCD displays. However, the differences between the two may be enough for some to upgrade. The Elite is slightly larger and heavier, and has a user weight capacity of 400 pounds — 50 pounds more than Pro. The console also features dual water bottle holders and a center storage compartment. Its belt is identical, but is backed by a lifetime warranty as opposed to the 150,000-mile variety on the Pro. 

Our tester has had the Elite for years, but still isn’t convinced the differences justify the price. “Honestly, they are so similar, it’s hard to say it’s worth the extra $1,000,” they said. “If you go with the Elite, the main benefits are the warranty and conveniences.”

Read our full AssaultRunner Elite Treadmill Review.

AssaultRunner Pro Vs. the Competition

Given the unique design of curved treadmills, it can be difficult to differentiate between these motorless options. To assist you on your quest to bring home a new treadmill, we stacked up two other manual models, along with one of the best NordicTrack treadmills we have tested — the NordicTrack 1750.

	AssaultRunner Pro	TrueForm Trainer Treadmill	Xebex Runner Smart Connect	NordicTrack 1750
Price	$2,999	$2,995	$4,299	$2,299
Weight Capacity	350lbs	400lbs	350lbs	300lbs
Product Dimensions	69.7” L x 33.1” W x 64” H	64” L x 31” W x 63” H	71” L x 35” W x 60” H	65” H x 80” L x 38” W
Display	LCD	LCD	LCD	14-inch touchscreen
Product Weight	280lbs	300lbs	332lbs	340lbs
Warranty	5-year frame, 3-year moving parts	10-year frame	5-year frame, 3-year moving parts, 2-year console	10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Training Programs	Quick Start, Intervals, Targets, Competition Mode	N/A	Intervals, Targets, Event Mode	iFIT

Lined up beside the TrueForm Trainer Treadmill, there may not appear to be much that separates the Pro from this similar curved model. Aside from saving $5, the Trainer has a higher weight capacity and longer frame warranty, but offers no training programs. The crucial distinction is in the angle of their curved deck. The TrueForm Trainer’s curved deck is shallower than the AssaultRunner Pro, meaning it requires more effort to generate momentum and spin the belt. As such, it may be a better option for seasoned runners who want a bit more challenge.

Read our full TrueForm Trainer Treadmill Review.

The Bluetooth-enabled monitor on the Xebex Runner Smart Connect can connect with more apps than the other manual options here, but you’ll sacrifice a few years of warranty coverage compared to the TrueFrom Trainer. The AssaultRunner Pro holds up despite coming in roughly $1,300 less.

The starkest comparison is the NordicTrack 1750, though it is a motorized option. Its 14-inch touchscreen is integrated with iFIT’s library of over 17,000 workouts and offers auto-adjusting incline and speed. If the 1750 is the iPhone Super Duper of treadmills, count the AssaultRunner Pro as a satellite phone — more expensive, sure, but also much more reliable. 

Places to Buy the AssaultRunner Pro

You can buy the AssaultRunner Pro on the Assault Fitness website or on Amazon.

Customer Experience

Our tester rated Assault Fitness’ customer service 5 out of 5 and highlighted the live chat feature on the website. Overall, the customer reviews we researched averaged out to roughly 4.5 out of 5. Most people shouted out the AssaultRunner Pro’s durability, comfort, and quiet operation.

Warranties

The warranties on this machine are a little short and earned a 4 out of 5 from our tester. You’ll get five years on the frame, three years on non-wear parts, and one year on labor. The belt itself has a 150,000-mile warranty.

Company Information

Assault Fitness produces an elite line of gym equipment, including some of the best rowing machines, exercise bikes, and treadmills we have tested. They may be most famous for the Assault AirBike. Their products aren’t for the faint of heart, but they tend to be super durable and capable of upping a user’s overall form and performance. You can reach the customer care team at customerservice@assaultfitness.com or by calling 1(888) 815-5559.

In Conclusion

If you’re looking to level up your running workouts, the AssaultRunner Pro is our tester’s top pick for most athletes. Though they have the AssaultRunner Elite in their own garage gym, they still named the more affordable Pro as their top choice for most people. The identical thick rubber belts on both Runners are heavier than the average non-motorized treadmill, making it easier to build and maintain the momentum that keeps the belt spinning.

After years of pounding its heavy tread, we expect its solid steel build to be in it for the long haul. Add in the steep curve of the deck, and this manual tread not only promotes proper running, but can potentially help you burn calories at a higher clip. (1) We think the AssaultRunner Pro is one of the best curved treadmills out there and a worthy investment for those ready to refine their technique and ratchet up the intensity of their training.

FAQs

References

1. Robertson, Nicholas, “Comparing Calorie Expenditure and Rating of Perceived Exertion between the Curve and a Motorized Treadmill” (2014). EWU Masters Thesis Collection. 268.
2. Hatchett, A., Armstrong, K., Parr, B., Crews, M., & Tant, C. (2018). The Effect of a Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill on Running Gait Length, Imbalance and Stride Angle. Sports (Basel, Switzerland), 6(3), 58.
3. Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135.
4. Edwards, R. B., Tofari, P. J., Cormack, S. J., & Whyte, D. G. (2017). Non-motorized Treadmill Running Is Associated with Higher Cardiometabolic Demands Compared with Overground and Motorized Treadmill Running. Frontiers in physiology, 8, 914.
5. Schoenmakers, P. P. J. M., & Reed, K. E. (2018). The physiological and perceptual demands of running on a curved non-motorised treadmill: Implications for self-paced training. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 21(12), 1293–1297.
6. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/