Spirit XT285 Treadmill Review

The XT series by Spirit Fitness offers simplistic, user-friendly home treadmills that work well for casual use. The Spirit XT285 is the second model in the series, having many improvements from its minimalistic sibling, the XT185.

Here’s everything you should know about this Spirit Fitness treadmill:

• 3.0 HP Motor

A welcome improvement from the former 2.75 HP motor of the Spirit XT185 is the XT285’s 3.0 HP motor. It offers enough support for walking, jogging, and occasional running. However, it’s still not as remarkable as the top treadmills of other brands at a similar price point. For instance, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is somewhat cheaper with a 3.75 CHP motor. 

• Up to 12 MPH (20.9 km/h) Speed

A speed limit of 12 mph should be more than enough for most home users. The previous model had a top speed of 10 mph, so consider this a bonus. We don’t recommend speeding up too often on this one, though, since the motor doesn’t seem powered enough to handle heavy workouts.

• 12 Incline Levels

You also get two extra incline levels on the XT285, compared to its younger brother. Incline walking multiplies calorie burn while training your lower body for muscle strength and definition.

• 7.5-inch Console LCD and Tablet Ledge

Frankly, we weren’t impressed with the plain LCD and reading rack/tablet holder on the console. At this price point, the XT285 could’ve at least had a full-colour touchscreen. It’s functional enough, though, and displays all your basic workout stats as you run.  

• 50 x 150 cm Thick, Cushioned Belt

While the running belt on the XT185 is long enough for comfortable jogging, this one has a lengthier belt that is more suitable for running. It also has six cushions underneath to protect your joints by having a shock-absorbing effect on your strides. The deck is ¼” thicker than the former model to better support heavy use.

• 8 Workout Programs + Fitness App Compatibility

Two heart rate control programs are added to the previously six built-in training programs (manual, hill, fat burn, cardio, interval, and strength). Moreover, there’s a Bluetooth feature that allows connectivity to the Spirit Fit and Zwift apps.

• Dual Heart Rate Monitoring Options

There are two options on the XT285 to help you stay in the correct heart rate zone. Besides having pulse sensors built into its handgrips, this treadmill offers telemetric monitoring and comes with a heart rate chest strap. 

• Lift Assist Folding with Safe Drop Feature

Like any good home treadmill, the Spirit XT285 has a hydraulic folding feature that enables you to push up the running deck, so it rests vertically against the console. We like how this allows compact storage and frees up precious floor space. The deck is further designed to unfold slowly to ensure your safety.

• Other Features

This model comes with a sound system, too – another thing lacking on the former one. The MP3 audio jack and speakers can help you play your music out loud. Moreover, direct access speed and incline buttons allow you quickly change workout intensity. The swivel fan on the console and dual storage trays are also worth mentioning.