Horizon Peak Trainer HT5.0 Review

Our Rating

Rating: 80.1/100. Horizon has thrown its hat into the ring, setting its sights on the full-body workout segment mostly taken up by the Bowflex Max Trainer (among others). The aforementioned top-rated machines are going to be tough for any brand to knock off the podium, but its entry price of $899 (when on sale) at the very least gives Horizon an upper hand when compared with even the most affordable of Max Trainers. On paper it also delivers a greater number of features that also give it an upper hand over the entry-level Max Trainer M3. High intensity interval training has become immensely popular for those looking to lose weight and build muscle definition in a hurry. These machines are geared specifically towards those who are frequently short on time, and the key workout that Horizon hangs their hat on—the Sprint 8—can be completed in only 20 minutes.

Please note that high-intensity interval training may be risky for people with Type II diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain other health conditions.

Pros:

• Total body training
• Very low impact
• Combined fan and electronic resistance setup
• Hiking-style step ergonomics
• Efficiency of Sprint 8 HIIT workout
• Ledge for tablet computer
• Compact machine footprint
• USB input for audio devices

Cons:

• High intensity interval training is too stressful for some people’s bodies
• As a brand-new model, not yet time-tested
• Could use a longer warranty
• No water bottle holder

Introduction

The latest to throw their hats into the HIIT trainer category, Horizon’s Peak Trainer HT5.0 is an affordably priced competitor to offerings from Bowflex and ProForm. Sale priced at $899 it’s a fantastic value for those looking for a full-body machine that’s an alternative to an elliptical. As noted, it can also be financed, which further sweetens the deal for those on a budget.

This unit runs in a motion similar to stairclimber, though not exactly—more of a mix between this and an elliptical, though the brand draws parallels to a hiking experience. The machine also supports upper body toning with handlebars that move the arms in boxing-like motions. Unlike similar trainers, there aren’t alternative grip positions on the HT5.0.

Workout Programs

There isn’t much to report here, as this machine is more basic than some of its competition. The machine has 4 rudimentary programs built-in, including Calorie, Weight Loss, Distance, and Manual. That said, there is one more brand-specific training program that the brand is leveraging as the biggest talking point when it comes to this machine.

They call it Sprint 8—an high intensity interval training program that will beat you up and leave you exhausted (in a good way) after just 20 minutes. Eight sprints followed by active recovery periods will push you to test your limits in a relatively short period, giving you a full-body burn in a very short period when compared to your average treadmill, elliptical, or indoor cycling program. Horizon performed several case studies before launching this rig, and based on their data, users can experience big drops in body fat—up to 27% after 8 weeks of 3x weekly sessions. Of course, this figure is in ideal conditions combined with a healthy diet and other changes, but the fact that they promise tangible goals within that timeframe is certainly encouraging.