Curious whodatace where you landed on your treadmill purchase? I’m also considering the Woodway Curve Trainer for the same reasons. I’m also looking at the Trueform vs the Woodway. Did you end up buying one? Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks.
I ended up going with the woodway curve trainer.
Context: I tried the woodway curve and trueform runner before making the purchase. I just ran a 18min 5k (PB for me) and I use the curve trainer for intervals 20†to 6’ long and some easy runs.
It is not what I expected to be honest. The curve was easier to run on, as was the trueform runner. The trainer feels like it is on a 2-4% incline always. Not a bad thing, but not what I expected. The heavier belt and less aggressive angle, make it feel like there is always a resistance. It is smooth though, don’t get me wrong.
My easy runs outside are at a 8-8:15 min/mile pace. On the trainer, at the same RPE, it is a 10 min/mile pace. When doing all out sprints (I am not a great sprinter), I can hit 15ish mph outside. But I think I can barely touch 12mph on the trainer. I can 100% feel more glute/hamstring activation on the trainer, and my quads aren’t sore ever after hard sessions. But 1-2 weeks of only running on the trainer, and an easy run outdoors makes my quads tender. So the impact is way less (or running style just very different).
I am not sure if that helps you at all. If you have specific questions let me know. I don’t regret the purchase, and use it for at least 1 of my weekly runs (usually bricks off the bike or rainy days).
Perhaps I would have been happier with the trueform runner (I felt it was a smoother run for endurance/easy stuff).
It’s a training tool and I have just adjusted my expectations for it.
I would say that if you plan to do only interval and high speed work, the regular curve is probably better. If you want something for lots of long easy runs, the trueform runner is probably better. But without having them side by side, it is a hard call. They all have their place.
I have heard that the cheaper curve treadmills have a lighter belt, and maybe that feeling of running on ice is what is in my head, vs one with a heavier belt meant to truly enforce running with your rear muscles.
I went with the Assault Runner. The more aggressive curve is is reduced by placing a 2x4 under the back end, problem solved. The NFL has been doing this for years for the larger athletes.
Thanks for this. Just the sort of feedback I was looking for. Very helpful. I am looking for something to satisfy similar use cases, i.e. brick runs and intervals, but I’m also looking for something a bit more versatile, where I could use it for more of my weekly miles potentially. Sounds like Trueform may be better suited for this of the two. Thanks again!
According to TRUEFORM’s website, Dr. Cucuzzella discusses the benefits of running on a curved, arc-shaped, non-motorized treadmill: “It compels an athlete to land closer to their center of mass, promoting maximum hip extension and activating the posterior chain. It encourages a fore-to-mid-foot strike pattern rather than a heel strike pattern.”
“With traditional machine-assisted acceleration, you often lean forward, continuously chasing the belt and running more on your quads. This leads to poor mechanics and increases the risk of injury.”
“The aggressive 6.5-to 8-inch curve of the Assault Runner allows the runner to move faster with less effort, as gravity helps in the downward motion once the foot makes contact.”
“All TRUEFORM models showcase a gentle 2.5-inch curve. You focus more on what’s beneath your feet, engaging your core to maintain better dynamic balance with reduced emphasis on keeping pace with the belt.”
Dr. Cucuzzella adds, " A Trueform is a lie detector for running. If you don’t move smoothly and efficiently, you’ll struggle against the machine. When you relax, adopt good posture, maintain balance, and open your hips, you’ll soar.”
Honestly sounds like a load of bull to me. Nobody’s breaking records by suddenly incorporating assault runner into their regimen. It’s a treadmill, it’s not a magic bullet for running.
Yeah, N.S. It is just a treadmill. I don’t care—not my words, not trying to convince anyone.
I like the curved, non-motorized t-mill concept because I like not running a 20 AMP line, no brushes to burn up, drive belts or deck to replace, motor to overheat & fail, with premature wear of the bearings, and finally, no run belt to lube. I’ll try a Trueform Runner/Trainer someday and see if it is all a bunch of marketing B.S. L8tr.