Horizon 5.0 AT Treadmill Review

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Horizon 5.0 AT Treadmill Review

Compact, Affordable, and Built for Home Fitness

It might look like you can’t get a treadmill that works well, doesn’t cost too much, and fits in your house. When it comes to price, speed, and size, the Horizon 5.0 AT treadmill is a great choice. This type is one of the least expensive folded treadmills that Horizon makes. It’s made for people who want to work out at home but don’t want to spend a lot of money or fill up a whole room with gym gear.

1. What Is the Horizon 5.0 AT Treadmill?

Horizon Fitness is a well-known company in the mid-range home exercise industry, and they make the Horizon 5.0 AT, a small, affordable folding treadmill. This is an updated version of Horizon’s popular T101 model. It has greater features, is built to last longer, and works better with apps.

It isn’t meant for dedicated runners or marathon training over long distances, but it’s great for walking, jogging quickly, and doing modest exercises in tiny areas like flats, condominiums, or shared rooms. At the time of writing, its MSRP is around $799, which is a good deal since it has a lot of functions and is cheaper than comparable treadmills that cost less than $1,000.

The Horizon 5.0 AT can be the right choice for you if you want to walk more, keep active inside, and have a treadmill that doesn’t take up too much space in your home.

2. Design and Build Quality

At first sight, the Horizon 5.0 AT seems like it finds a good mix between space-saving and useful features. The frame is made of steel, which makes it quite stable while you use it. This is not usually the case with treadmills in this price range. The treadmill is around 180 pounds, which is light yet strong enough for daily walking and modest running.

When put together, it is 71 inches long, 33 inches broad, and 57 inches tall. This makes it smaller than most typical treadmills, yet it still gives most average-height users a comfortable stride.

The fact that the 5.0 AT can be folded up is a huge selling factor. After your exercise, you can quickly raise the deck and lock it in place, which makes it take up a lot less space. It also has wheels for moving it around, so you can move it out of the way when you’re done. Because it can be moved and stored easily, it’s a great choice for folks who don’t have a lot of room in their home gym.

3. Deck Size and Cushioning

The running deck is 20 inches broad and 55 inches long, which is about what you would expect from a little treadmill. The deck size is good for strolling and casual jogging. But if you’re tall (over 6 feet) or want to run fast a lot, you may discover that the deck is a little short for big strides.

This treadmill has Horizon’s famous “3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning” built in. This implies that the deck has varied levels of hardness over its surface: the front is softer to absorb impact, the center is stronger to keep things stable, and the rear is supporting to help you push off. This technique helps keep things feeling natural while also lowering stress on the joints.

Although the cushioning is not as plush as that of high-end treadmills such as the NordicTrack or the Sole, it is extremely forgiving and pleasant for the price, which makes it an excellent choice for walking or light training on a daily basis without difficulty.

4. Motor and Performance

Horizon has an unknown constant horsepower (CHP), however industry experts estimate 2.5–2.75 CHP. It has roughly the same motor power as $700–$900 compact treadmills. It may be walked or ran on.

Most people can do interval walking, fast running, or runs at 10 mph. If you raise the treadmill’s incline by 10%, you may work out harder without going faster.

The motor works well for light to moderate use, but it wasn’t designed to handle long, hard workouts or hard running every day. If you are an avid runner getting ready for a race, you might want to get a treadmill with a motor that has at least 3.0 CHP. But the Horizon 5.0 AT is a great deal because it always works well for people who want to work out at home or just for fun.

5. Console and User Interface

The Horizon 5.0 AT doesn’t have bright displays or built-in streaming applications, which is beneficial for a lot of people. Instead, it has a simple and trustworthy control panel that will help you stay focused on your exercise.

The console has a four-window LED display (not a touchscreen) that provides important exercise stats like:

Time
Distance
Calories used
Heart rate
Quickness
Incline

You can easily switch between settings using tactile buttons, which is helpful and doesn’t get in the way. Because it’s so simple, anybody of any age may use the treadmill without having to sign up for an app or check in.

The 5.0 AT has predefined training routines for those who prefer to mix things up, including

Mode of operation
Burning Fat
Goal for distance
Climb a hill
Intervals
Calories

These built-in programs may help you reach certain objectives, including gaining strength, burning calories, or improving your endurance.

6. Connectivity and Smart Features

Bluetooth connection is one of the best new features of the Horizon T101. The 5.0 AT enables you link your smartphone, tablet, or Bluetooth-compatible heart rate monitor to make the experience more connected.

You can utilize well-known third-party programs like Peloton, Zwift, Kinomap, and Strava. You can’t use the treadmill’s built-in screen, but you can attach your own device to the media rack and stream training courses or follow virtual routes right from your tablet.

This open-app design is a great plus. Horizon lets you choose any fitness app that works with your training method. You don’t have to stick with one ecosystem or subscription.

If you have a heart rate monitor, you’ll like how easy it is to connect it with Bluetooth. This will make it simpler to train in certain zones for the best heart health advantages.

7. Weight Capacity and Stability

The Horizon 5.0 AT can hold up to 300 pounds, which is a lot for a treadmill in this price range. The Horizon 5.0 AT can hold 300 lbs, which is more than other small treadmills, which can only hold 250 lbs. This makes it more accessible to a larger spectrum of users.

The steel frame and cross-bar support beneath the deck make you feel safe, even while you’re running or walking up a hill quickly. People that review the 5.0 AT typically say that it seems more substantial than they thought it would for a cheap treadmill. It doesn’t wobble or creak much when you work out.

Because it is so sturdy, it is especially tempting to those who desire a treadmill that feels safe and secure without the mass and cost of a commercial machine.

8. Ease of Use and Assembly

The Horizon 5.0 AT doesn’t need much effort to set up. The treadmill is only half completed, and the directions are straightforward. They will instruct you on how to make the console, uprights, and parts link together so that you can quickly put it together.

Because the mechanism for folding works smoothly and is assisted by hydraulics, you do not need to elevate the whole deck in order to fold it. Folding it up after a workout is a simple process that just takes a few seconds, and once it is folded, it takes up very little room on the floor surface.

Every day, it’s easy to use the treadmill. The buttons are easy to use and fit together well. The speed and tilt quick-access keys make it simple to make changes while you’re out and about.

9. Noise Level and Comfort

The Horizon 5.0 AT is quiet for a treadmill of its size and price, which is a good thing.

The cushioning blocks impact noise and the engine hum is low. The sound becomes louder as you walk faster or uphill, but this treadmill is quieter than other entry-level treadmills. Watch TV or listen to music without turning up the volume.

The treadmill is comfortable in a balanced way. The deck isn’t too bouncy or soft, so it feels like a real road while yet preserving your joints.

10. App Compatibility and Multimedia Options

Despite the fact that it is not a smart screen, Horizon intended the 5.0 AT to communicate well with contemporary fitness applications. Interactional training is made possible with Bluetooth.

Here’s an example of something you can do:

Use your own device to see as you stream exercises on Peloton.
Zwift lets you run simulated routes for a more realistic training experience.
Use Strava to keep track of your workouts and see how you’re doing.
Kinomap has real-world video courses that change slope to match the terrain.

This versatility lets you utilize several applications, so you don’t have to stick with one company and may save money on monthly subscriptions.

11. Warranty and Customer Support

Another great thing about Horizon Fitness devices is that they come with a long warranty, particularly for the price. The Horizon 5.0 AT comes with:

The frame and deck come with a lifetime guarantee.
Parts and labor are covered for one year.

Most treadmills in this price range only come with a 1–3 year warranty on the frame, but Horizon offers a lifetime warranty, which shows how sure they are that their products will last. Their customer care is quick to respond and can help you find replacement parts and servicing when you need them.

As a result of this guarantee, those who are on the fence about purchasing a low-cost treadmill will feel more confident about making an investment in the 5.0 AT for the long term.

12. Strengths of the Horizon 5.0 AT

There are a lot of reasons why this treadmill stands out in contrast to other models that are meant for use in the house, including the following:

Design that is small and easy to fold
Because it can be folded up so effortlessly, the treadmill is perfect for living in flats, studios, and shared living areas.
Cheap but dependable
Its quality, longevity, and features make it a great value at $799.
Bluetooth Connection
Links to your favorite fitness applications, progress tracking, and wire-free heart rate monitors are available.
Strong weight limit (300 lbs)
This treadmill is more accommodating than other treadmills in its category.
Warranty on the frame is for life.
Peace of mind for long-term ownership is provided by a warranty that covers the frame for its entire duration.
Works quietly
Because of the low level of noise, it is appropriate for use in interior settings such as the house.
Options for a smooth incline and speed
It enables you to do a variety of efficient workouts at speeds of up to ten miles per hour and at an inclination of ten percent.

13. Limitations and Areas to Improve

There is no treadmill that is perfect, especially if you are working with a limited budget. It is important that you be aware of what some of the limitations of the Horizon 5.0 AT are before you purchase it.

Deck Length is Shorter (55″)
It is ideal for strolling and jogging in a casual setting; however, those who are heavier or who have strides that are longer may find it challenging to run on it.
The basic design of the console
Unfortunately, the LED screen does not have a touch interface or streaming material, so it does not have a modern appearance. However, it does function well.
Not Listed: Motor Size
Due to the absence of a confirmed CHP rating, there is a possibility that some clients may not be persuaded about the long-term performance.
Low Level of Training Intensity
If you are an experienced runner who hopes to run great distances on a regular basis or participate in severe interval training, this treadmill is not the best option for you.

Even while these problems don’t make the product less useful overall, they are important for setting realistic goals.

14. Who Should Buy the Horizon 5.0 AT Treadmill

Using this treadmill is fantastic for:

Those individuals who are looking for a compact treadmill that is easy to transport and conveniently keep at home.
People who want to work out indoors in a manner that is always pleasant and who walk or jog softly with the intention of doing so.
Individuals who are new to the world of exercise and are looking for a straightforward treadmill that does not need them to pay a subscription fee.
Individuals who live in apartments and are looking for a treadmill that is not only silent but also takes up little space are also eligible for this program.
When walking on a 55-inch deck, those who are shorter than 6 feet in height or who have stride lengths that are typical will feel comfortable.

The Horizon 5.0 AT is one of the greatest offers on performance, cost, and usefulness if you fall into one of these categories.

15. Who Should Skip It

If you want a better model, you may want to look at a higher-tier one.

You run large distances every day, thus you’re a dedicated runner.
You require a longer running surface since you are taller than 6’2″.
You want the console to have interactive streaming exercises integrated in, like the NordicTrack iFit devices.
You want to utilize the treadmill for hard incline or sprint training.

In these situations, a treadmill with a 3.0 CHP engine and a 60-inch deck might be best for you.

16. Comparing Horizon 5.0 AT vs Horizon T101

Feature	Horizon 5.0 AT	Horizon T101
Motor Power	~2.5–2.75 CHP	~2.25 CHP
Top Speed	10 mph	10 mph
Incline	10%	10%
Deck Size	20″ x 55″	20″ x 55″
Bluetooth	Yes	No
Weight Capacity	300 lbs	300 lbs
Warranty	Lifetime frame/deck, 1-year parts/labor	Lifetime frame, 1-year parts/labor
App Compatibility	Peloton, Zwift, Kinomap, Strava	Limited
Best For	Walkers/joggers who want Bluetooth connectivity	Beginners needing a basic treadmill

A T101 that has been upgraded is what the 5.0 AT is. In spite of the fact that it is more compact, it is more effective and has a more robust structure. It is recommended that you go with this option if you want to use the treadmill on a more consistent basis or if you want to connect to apps.

17. Performance in Daily Use

When put to the test in real life, the Horizon 5.0 AT works well for tasks that are considered to be routine. Walking enthusiasts like how comfortable it is and how simple it is to control the pace. Those who engage in light jogging believe that it is suitable for moderate exercise.

The belt of the treadmill goes without halting as it moves smoothly between speeds and as it moves up and down hills. No matter whether you are walking, jogging, or switching between the two, the deck has a solid feel to it.

According to a lot of individuals, folding and unfolding is simple, which is fantastic for families with a limited number of members. Because it is simple to transport, store, and use on a daily basis, it makes it easier for individuals to stick to their exercise goals.

18. Why It’s Great for Small Spaces

It might be challenging to locate a space in which to exercise at home. The Horizon 5.0 AT is able to solve this issue since it is compact and folds up into a smaller size. As a result of the wheels, it may be folded up and stored in closets and corners, so reducing the amount of floor space it occupies.

Because it is so easy to stow the treadmill after a workout without having to set it up, those who live in apartments and homes with limited space will love this feature.

19. Is the Horizon 5.0 AT Worth It?

The Horizon 5.0 AT is one of the best treadmills for working out at home. It’s cheap and easy to use. It costs roughly $800 and has a small size, a good motor, Bluetooth connection, high build quality, and a long guarantee.

It’s not for professional athletes or marathon training, but it’s great for those who walk, jog, or use a treadmill every day and want a nice, cheap solution.

In the event that you are interested in becoming in shape, preserving your health, or constructing a modest home gym, the Horizon 5.0 AT is a fantastic purchase to make.

To summarize:

Excellent for jogging and other mild forms of walking workouts
This device is simple to pack away, small, and quiet all at the same time.
Outstanding value in comparison to the original price
Through the use of Bluetooth, it is compatible with a wide range of well-known exercise programs.
Guaranteed to endure a lifetime, thanks to an exceptional assurance that the frame will be durable.

For people who use a treadmill at home and are looking for something that is not only within their budget range but also easy to use and cost-effective, the Horizon 5.0 AT treadmill is one of the finest options that are now available on the market. To put it another way, it is one of the greatest choices that are currently accessible.