The Livestrong LS8.0T is the 2012 model version of the LS7.9 that has been around for the past few years. The Livestrong line of fitness equipment is designed and manufactured by Johnson Health Technology, a leading fitness equipment producer with a manufacturing plant located in mainland China.
LIVESTRONG – The Brand
The Livestrong brand of fitness equipment is endorsed by Lance Armstrong and his Livestrong Foundation, donating a portion of all profits generated through the sale of his equipment towards much needed cancer research. Lance, being famous for defying all odds and taking out the prestigious Tour de France title while recovering from testicular cancer himself, had set up the foundation that today is responsible for donating millions of dollars to find cure cancer.
Livestrong LS8.0 T treadmill frame and deck.
The frame on the 8.0T is the same as on the previous 7.9 model. Measuring 177cm in length and 92cm in width and a running surface of 141cm x 50cm. With the total weight of the machine being around 85Kg the Livestrong LS8.0T is a fairly well proportioned and roomy treadmill that is still considered to be entry level running machine. Other main frame features that deserve a mention are the thick chunky uprights that support the console. Made of round 1.5mm thick metal they support the console at a height of 152cm from the floor to the top of the console at 0 incline. The deck cushioning system has now also been upgraded to be adjustable.
Console and Features.
The Livestrong LS8.0T has had a facelift on the console, squeezing in an LCD Display that was previously found only on the higher end models of the Livestrong Treadmill range.
Programs and workouts come in at 9 presets (including manual) but this time you have the additional function of the new Livetrack Interactive exclusive to Livestrong, a feature allowing you to download fresh workouts from the Livestrong.com website.
Livetrack is a new interactive feature allowing you to transfer data in the form of programming and user workout stats to and from the treadmill via a USB. Livetrack Interactive has taken the Livestrong Fitness Journal to a new level, being able to download user stats onto the computer and compare, catalog and store your personal progress with the aid of interactive software. As mentioned before, extra workout programs can also be downloaded onto the USB device and then retrieved by the running machine, to take you through the freshly downloaded program profile.
While this feature is new for Livestrong Fitness, the concept has been implemented many years ago by Icon Fitness under the “iFit” brand.
Other features of the console are the quick speed and incline buttons allowing you to jump to your desired speed and incline with a hit of a button.
The speakers on the Livestrong LS8.0T have remained unchanged, but then they didn’t actually need any improvements. They have always had good mixture of volume output with the right balance of bass treble and highs.
Heart rate can be monitored through contact receivers or wirelessly (using a polar T34 Transmitter) however there are no heat rate controlled programs featured on this treadmill.
Motor.
The motor featured in the Livestrong LS8.0T is a 2.5HPC which is more than enough to be used for walking, jogging and running. Kudos for Livestrong to incorporate a fairly big motor into their entry level treadmill. The motor operates quietly and effortlessly with a runner of up 98Kg.
Installation
The one drawback with the Livestrong series is the installation process which could be made a little easier. Particularly installation of the main uprights can be difficult for some home installers as 2 people are required. As we install treadmills on a daily basis we prefer for the main frame parts to be held together by at least one pivotal bolt as is the case with some other brands and models.
The Verdict
The Livestrong LS8.0T is a great value entry level treadmill packing in many features that can be found on higher priced, higher end treadmills in other brands. Coming from a reputable manufacturer, you can rest assured that your warranties will be honored when the need arises. If you plan to use your treadmill for walking or light jogging the LS8.0T is equipped to withstand that sort of use. If you plan to use your treadmill on a regular basis and quite often as in with the case of having actual weight loss goals, we would recommend moving to the higher Livestrong models. Taking into consideration the features, construction, overall weight and components used in the production of this treadmill, we can say the The Livestrong LS8.0T represents great value for money.