Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill Review

Compatibility with Fitness Apps

One of Horizon’s highly exclusive features that compensate for the basic console is the fact their treadmills are engineered for any live or on-demand fitness apps. Many companies limit compatibility to a handful of apps with which they have a partnership. In some cases, you can only sync with the company’s app, so this is an excellent feature for anyone who uses multiple fitness apps and wants a way to consolidate their workout experience. 

Broad range app compatibility is highly facilitated by the QuickDial controls and responsive Rapid Sync motor. Users are also able to transmit heart rate data on select apps including Peloton and Zwift using the wireless heart rate monitor. The Studio app offers a broad range of treadmill classes, allowing you to constantly mix up your exercise programming. 

I really like that you can even stream media like Spotify, Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, an excellent way to make a longer workout go by faster. Whether you like to listen to music or your favorite podcast, engage in on-demand classes, or watch movies during your runs, the Horizon 7.8 AT has you covered. 

A few other complementary features that further facilitate app use include:

• Integrated speakers
• Ability to transmit metrics like speed with popular apps
• Multiple areas to place your tablet so view of your metrics on the console isn’t blocked
• Rapid-charging USB port so your battery doesn’t die in the middle of your workout

While some may initially see the simplistic console as a bad thing, it saves a lot of money on technology you already have in your mobile devices. I personally prefer to pay less on my fitness equipment and integrate what I already use into my workout routine. To learn more about the endless possibilities opened up through Horizon’s comprehensive app compatibility, check out our deep dive into the best fitness apps. 

QuickDial Controls

Exclusive to the Studio Series treadmills by Horizon, the 7.8 AT QuickDial speed and incline controls are the blue dials located on the upright handles, and they’re designed to make it easy to adjust speed or incline without having to break your rhythm to reach up to tap buttons. Perfect for interval training, the convenient thumb rollers on the handles allow for you to more quickly adjust incline and resistance than you can using the quick touch controls. Once a unique innovation to Peloton, Horizon’s take on thumb rollers was quite successful. You can feel the difference in speed/incline very quickly after making adjustments. 

As a HIIT instructor, I am a big fan of this prompt response. If you don’t like to put a lot of time into workout planning, the integrated Sprint 8 HIIT program turns complicated training into a simple process as you work fast-twitch muscles that initiate the production of human growth hormone. It does so by taking you through 20 minutes of brief but intense bursts followed by short rest periods, a popular style of training proven to burn up to 27% body fat in as little as two months as well as develop lean muscle mass all while improving energy levels for the rest of the day. 

Speed is adjusted with the right control. Moving the dial forward increases speed, while dialing backward decreases. Similarly, the left dial creates an uphill incline by rolling forward and a downward decline when you roll it backward. This is a great feature for folks who incorporate high intensity interval training since it’s easy to quickly make adjustments as you switch back and forth between work and rest periods. 

It’s worth noting that turning the dial doesn’t result in large incremental changes. Rather, speed adjusts by .1 and incline by .5 with each turn. This allows you to more precisely adjust these variables, so if you need to bounce back and forth between larger speed or incline gaps quickly, you’ll have to roll the dial several times. The QuickDial controls should not be substituted as a safety feature. In the event you need to quickly stop your machine, always use the red safety key. 

Speakers & Fast-Charging USB Port

The Horizon 7.8’s integrated speakers enhance the audio of your Bluetooth-enabled device, and this goes a long way in helping you immerse yourself into your workout. You’re also equipped with a rapid-charge USB port that keeps your device charged. If you’re connecting headphones with a cord, you may run into an issue of no sound or fuzzy sound. If this happens, it’s likely the connection isn’t complete. Check the audio cable. It’s probably not plugged in all the way. 

Side Rails & Handlebars

I love the safety ridges on the aluminum side rails that prevent your foot from sliding off. My feet aren’t particularly large, but they are slightly wider than the rails. If you have large feet, be extra careful if you’re standing on the rails while the belt is moving. Also be aware of the motor hood at the top of the deck. Since the 7.8 AT folds, the motor hood is somewhat elevated. While it’s not a serious issue, being positioned too close while running could cause you to make contact with your shoe. 

Users are provided two sets of handlebars with this model. The side hand rails that extend on the outside of the machine directly above the side rails assist when getting on and off the treadmill. They are sweat-resistant and easy to keep clean. Once on the machine, the curved handlebars are easily accessible and equipped with heart rate sensors. The QuickDial controls are conveniently located at the top for easy speed and incline transitions needed for HIIT training. 

Frame

Weighing in at 330 lbs., the Horizon 7.8 is the sturdiest in the Studio series lineup. While it does have wheels beneath the frame for transport, be careful when moving, because it’s still a very heavy machine. I love that you can fold the deck into a vertical position when not in use. This is a great feature for smaller spaces and can prevent people from tripping. All you have to do is remove the accessory tray and lift the deck. When you’re ready to use it again, the locking latch is located on the bottom of the deck and can be easily unlocked with your foot for a safe hydraulic release.

Taller runners are well accommodated by the large 22”W x 60”L deck, and it feels very stable and secure even when running at a fast speed on an incline.

Cushioning

Horizon’s 7.8 AT treadmill features 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning. The name really tells it all as the deck has three zones with various levels of cushioning to provide optimal, mid-strike foot positioning without compromising toe-off and full kickback extension. Not only does this feature prevent excessive impact on joints, but it also promotes proper running posture and spinal alignment. Ultimately, this reduces injury and decreases recovery time following challenging runs. 

Motor

Strong Enough for Runners while Compatible with Walkers

The 4.0 CHP, 500-lb thrust incline motor is able to support more aggressive running associated with HIIT and sprint training. It’s also capable of sustaining longer sessions of steady-state cardio, making it a great option for a wide range of runners from someone training for a marathon to a track athlete trying to improve their 100 meter time. Interval training is further facilitated by the 33% faster incline and speed transitions that came along with the Rapid Synch technology. 

The 7.8 AT isn’t just for serious runners. Walkers are also well-accommodated with the programs that make it easy to start a workout without lots of planning. However, if you’ll be using your treadmill primarily for walking, you may want to consider the Horizon 7.0 AT option. 

Speed, Incline, and Heart Rate Monitoring

Horizon features a pretty standard speed range of 0.5-12 mph. The incline is broad and contributes to the versatility of the 7.8 AT treadmill ranging from 0-15%. Those who incorporate heart rate training will appreciate the options. Holding onto the contact hand grips can be difficult to maintain at high speeds, and that’s where the included Bluetooth chest strap comes in handy. It can also connect directly to popular training apps. 

Noise

As an endurance athlete, I’ve used a treadmill or two for training, and the 7.8 AT is pretty quiet compared with competitive brands. Using the noise meter on my iPhone, I made the following measurements:

• 3 mph- 33 dB- Similar to typical speech
• 6 mph- 49 dB- Similar to the noise in an office setting
• 9 mph- 61 dB- Similar to the sound of a passenger car
• 12 mph- 68 dB- Similar to the sound of a loud washing machine

These measurements were taken without a runner on the machine, so keep in mind user weight will also make an impact. 

Shipping and Customer Service

There have been some complaints regarding issues with shipping including my own experience. The cardboard packaging was missing the top cover. Inside the main package were damaged accessory boxes, and there were a few missing part. The treadmill itself was scratched up. With that being said, I called customer service, and they were quick to arrange for a replacement product to be sent. They even sent the missing pieces from the original delivery so I could donate the damaged product to a local gym.

So, does my experience validate the claims of shipping issues? Perhaps, but I’d point out that Horizon isn’t a shipping company, and they use an outside provider for this service. Furthermore, customer service is very prompt to react to these situations. These things happen, so it’s good to know you won’t get ignored after they’ve got your money as sometimes happens in the consumer world. 

Assembly

It’s heavy, so you should have at least two people on hand to assemble on a level surface. The hardest part of assembly in my case was just getting it from the driveway to the door. From there, assembly took a couple of hours. If you don’t have anyone to help, I’d recommend paying extra for assembly. If you do assemble it yourself, the process is broken down nicely in the manual into five steps starting with detailed instructions on connecting the console comprising steps one and two. Step three through five walk you through the setup of the body of the treadmill. It took a couple of hours from start to finish. Before using it for the first time, make sure you lubricate the deck. 

Durability and Warranty

You want a machine that holds up against the test of time. There are some important metrics we can analyze to get an idea of how long we can expect it to last.

The Warranty

A product with anything less than a 10-year motor-frame warranty is likely of lower quality. Horizon has you covered with a lifetime warranty. You want to shoot for at least 30 years, and the 7.8 AT surpasses the bar with a lifetime warranty. Its parts warranty is also higher than the 2-3 years warranty we like to see with five years of coverage. 

Weight Capacity

The manufacturer’s suggested weight capacity also gives you a good idea of how durable the machine is. Cheap products can feature weight limits of 200 lbs. or less, while premium products can surpass 500 lbs. With the 7.8 AT, the weight capacity is 375 pounds, ranking it in our high (but not quite premium) durability category.

Rollers

The long, tube-shaped rollers are what the belt wraps around to allow it to move, and they are the most frequently damaged part of a treadmill. When they crack or are otherwise compromised, the treadmill is unable to work properly. A roller 1.6” or less runs a higher risk of running hot, whereas 2.5” or more provides a better grip on the belt and improves overall durability. The 7.8 AT rollers are 2.4”/1.8” tapered, providing a happy medium between the two ends of the spectrum and well-aligned with the price point. 

Care and Maintenance

Overall, the Horizon 7.8 AT treadmill has excellent durability expectations, especially for a product in this price range. With proper care and maintenance, there’s no reason why someone following the proper user guidelines shouldn’t enjoy more than a decade of regular use on this product. The user’s manual provides a maintenance schedule you should be diligent in keeping up with.

• Every Day
  • Clean the deck, belt, and motor cover, and inspect the power cord and running belt tension.
• Weekly
  • Clean underneath the treadmill.
• Monthly
  • Inspect tightness of bolts, and clean the motor and lower board area of lint/dust.
• Every three months or 150 miles
  • Lubricate the running deck.

It’s always ideal to address issues sooner rather than later, and Horizon makes that easy with a dedicated web page to purchase replacement parts.

Additional Options

When you make your purchase, you’re presented with a variety of extras to add to your purchase that can help you incorporate strength training into your cardio routine. Some popular options include:

• Fitness mat- $40
• Hexagon steel dumbbell- $59.99-$219.99 ranging from 5-75 lbs.
• Resistance tube- $29.99-$39.99 ranging from light to extra heavy
• Medicine ball- $34.99-$59.99 ranging from 4-20 lbs.
• Parts and labor boost
• In-room or white glove delivery 

The equipment is rather pricey because they feature commercial-grade quality. This means they are intended to withstand steady use by multiple people. If shopping for a commercial gym, this is the level of quality you want to shoot for, and I’d highly recommend exploring all the accessories Horizon has to offer. Unless you are actively investing in a high-quality home gym, most individuals can get away with shopping for less expensive alternatives. 

For example, while you could purchase the entire Ziva performance hexagon steel dumbbells from Horizon ranging from 15-50 lbs. for around $1,200, a single set of adjustable dumbbells ranging from 10-90 lbs. takes up way less space and only run around $800. You can explore our top picks for adjustable dumbbells for more ideas to best fit your needs and budget. 

The Budget-Friendly Option- Horizon 7.0 AT

The most basic of the Studio Series, the Horizon 7.0 AT, offers essential features without breaking the bank:

• 3.0 CHP motor
• Seven built-in programs
• 325-lb. weight limit
• Seven-inch LCD screen
• Priced under $1,000

The Middle Ground- Horizon 7.4 AT

A step above the 7.0, the Horizon 7.4 AT ups the ante with features that improve both stability and functionality:

• Improved motor over 7.0 model at 3.5 CHP
• Extra two years on parts warranty
• Ten built-in programs
• LCD screen is larger than the 7.0 model at 8.25” vs. 7”
• Higher weight capacity at 350 lbs.

The Premium Option: Horizon 7.8 AT

The 7.8 AT is Horizon’s top-of-the-line model, and there are numerous extras that come along with the higher price tag: 

• Most robust deck and motor combination at 4.0 CHP
• Best console LCD screen with a 9.9” High Contrast Color TFT 
• Accessory tray
• Highest weight capacity at 375 lbs.
• Convenient media controls

With a better understanding of the differences, let’s delve into the nuts and bolts of the Horizon 7.8 option.

Conclusion

For a product in the $2,000 price range, the Horizon 7.8 AT is highly-durable and adequately equipped. The 22”W x 60”L deck accommodates tall runners, and those who regularly incorporate HIIT training into their routine will appreciate both the QuickDial controllers and Sprint 8 HIIT program. I’d classify this product as a high-end folding treadmill with its impressive warranty and above-average durability features. 

Although the small screen is a bit outdated, if you have a tablet or other device, you can still take advantage of some of the most popular workout apps on the market without having to spend a fortune. The console is Bluetooth-compatible to further expand functionality including the heart rate chest strap for real-time metrics that appear on the screen. 

I love the 10 built-in programs. Even when I just want a quick workout without setting up my iPad, I’m still able to enjoy a targeted experience geared toward my goals. Synchronization with various external apps, high quality, responsive customer service, exceptional warranty, and high durability make the Horizon 7.8 AT an excellent treadmill, especially for tall runners who enjoy interval training. Best of all, with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, you have peace-of-mind in knowing you aren’t tied down until you’ve had the chance to try it for yourself.