Bob A.I.
Our take: Big deck and real speed — a practical, no-frills treadmill for serious home runners
Tired of home treadmills that feel like oversized walking machines? We’ve seen too many models skimp on deck size and motor power, making sprints awkward and unsafe — the Cardio Pro arrives promising a much larger 125 x 45 cm running surface and a 17.5 km/h top speed to fix that.
We tested the Branx Fitness ‘Cardio Pro' across steady runs and intervals to see if the size, cushioning, incline range and motor actually add up to a better at-home run. Priced at £699.99, it leans practical over flashy — offering strong, stable performance, but it does need space and the console is more utilitarian than luxe.
Branx Cardio Pro Touchscreen Console Treadmill
We found this treadmill to be a strong all-rounder for people who want a stable, fast, and forgiving running surface at home. It balances power, cushioning and programs well, though it requires a decent amount of space and the console is utilitarian rather than flashy.
- Running Surface & Cushioning – 9
- Motor Power & Speed – 8.5
- Console, Programs & Connectivity – 8
- Build Quality & Stability – 8.2
Pros
- Very large running deck for confident strides and safer sprints
- Strong motor delivering consistent speed up to 17.5 km/h
- Generous auto-incline range with many program options
- Touchscreen console with metrics, MP3 input and built-in speakers
- Certified components and UK-based company support
Cons
- Bulky even when folded — needs substantial space
- Display is functional but relatively small (5.5″) compared with modern HD consoles
- Maximum user weight (130 kg) may be restrictive for some users
Branx Cardio Pro Treadmill: Quick Folding Out
Overview
We approach every treadmill review with an eye for practical performance: how it feels underfoot, what the motor does under load, how easy it is to use day-to-day, and whether maintenance and safety are sensible for a home environment. The Branx Cardio Pro is built around a very large running deck, a high top speed, and an auto-incline range that together promise versatility for walkers, interval runners, and steady-state cardio users.
Key specifications at a glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Usable running area | 1350 x 480 mm (approx) |
| Max speed | 17.5 km/h (11 mph) |
| Motor | 3.5 CHP continuous (6 hp peak) |
| Incline | 0–20 levels (auto) |
| Max user weight | 130 kg |
| Programs | 12–99 (marketing varies by SKU) |
| Certifications | CE / RoHS / EN957 / ISO9001 |
| Foldable | Yes — hydraulic assist |
Design and frame
We like machines that feel substantial without being overcomplicated. The Cardio Pro uses an alloy-steel frame and a wide deck that gives the impression of a gym-grade treadmill rather than a compact runner. That added footprint helps stability during fast runs and aggressive inclines.
- Wide, supportive side rails for safe mounting and dismounting
- Fold-flat design with hydraulic assist for space-saving storage
- Shock-absorbing 8-point deck suspension system
The overall finish is pragmatic — black and grey tones that hide wear well, and robust welds at high-stress points. Because the unit is fairly heavy, relocation once assembled will typically require two people.
Motor, speed and incline performance
The motor is the heart of any treadmill and we tested the Cardio Pro across walking, jogging, sprint intervals, and steep-incline walks. The continuous 3.5 CHP rating with 6 hp peak means the treadmill accelerates confidently and holds high speeds with minimal strain.
- Smooth acceleration up to 17.5 km/h suitable for HIIT and tempo runs
- Noisy spikes are minimal under normal loads, though heavy, repeated sprints produce a perceptible hum
- Auto-incline range up to level 20 allows serious hill workouts without excessive reliance on speed
In practice we found the incline motor responsive and incremental; it’s suitable for progressive hill training and brisk walking workouts. For heavier users approaching the 130 kg limit and frequent top-speed sessions, we recommend occasional warm-up periods to avoid overtaxing the motor.
Running surface and cushioning
A huge selling point is the 1350 x 480 mm usable surface. This gives more lateral and longitudinal room than many home treadmills, which is especially valuable for taller runners and for anyone who does interval training and stride variability.
- Eight-point cushioning system reduces joint impact relative to hard-surface running
- Belt material provides good traction for both dry running and sweaty sessions
- Wide surface reduces the chance of stepping off the belt during fatigue or quick transitions
We found the cushioning strikes a balance between protection and energy return; it’s not as plush as some dedicated low-impact decks, but it’s forgiving enough to reduce knee and ankle shock during daily training.
Console, interface and extras
The console uses a 5.5″ LCD touchscreen paired with tactile buttons for quick adjustments. It presents speed, distance, time, calories, pulse, incline, and BMI. There’s also an MP3 input and built-in speakers for basic audio playback.
- Touchscreen for program selection with shortcut keys for speed/incline
- Pulse readout and body-fat estimate features for basic tracking
- MP3 socket and speakers for entertainment during workouts
While the interface is functional and quick to react, it’s not a full-colour HD experience. For users who want integrated apps, streaming, or Bluetooth fitness ecosystems, this console is more utilitarian — excellent for straightforward tracking, less so for immersive app-driven workouts.
Programs and metrics
The treadmill offers a wide assortment of preset programs and incline profiles. These are useful for varied session planning without needing external workout files.
- Multiple preset programs including interval and heart-rate guided options
- Manual mode gives instantaneous control of speed and incline
- Calorie and basic body-fat readouts help with short-term progress tracking
We recommend pairing the console’s metrics with an external heart-rate monitor (chest strap or wrist device) if you want reliable training-zone specificity.
Safety, folding and storage
Safety is solid: an emergency stop key is provided, the deck has appreciable side rails, and the frame certifications indicate compliance with common European standards.
- Hydraulic folding mechanism for safer and easier folding/unfolding
- Safety key and emergency stop for immediate power cut
- Sturdy side rails and wide steps for safe entry/exit
Even when folded the treadmill remains substantial. We advise measuring storage space first; while foldable, it’s not a compact under-bed unit and will likely sit in a garage, utility room, or a dedicated home gym corner.
Assembly, maintenance and warranty notes
We appreciate products that require minimal setup, and the Cardio Pro ships partly pre-assembled. Still, initial assembly and final checks take time and are easier with two people.
- Pre-assembled deck in packaging reduces setup time
- Basic maintenance: belt lubrication, deck alignment checks, and periodic tightening of bolts
- Replacement parts and certified servicing are usually available through the UK-based support network
Regularly inspecting the deck and belt tension will prolong motor life and belt longevity. We recommend a short monthly check for high-frequency users.
Who should consider this treadmill
We find this model best for people who need a stable, spacious running surface and want the versatility of higher speeds and steep inclines without paying a gym membership. It’s also a good fit for families sharing a single machine, as the large deck accommodates varying stride lengths.
- Serious walkers and runners who require extra deck space
- Interval trainers who use sprints and incline repeats
- Users who value certifications and a UK-based supplier for support
It may be less suitable for compact apartments where storage space is extremely limited or for users seeking a slick smart-console experience with streaming workouts built-in.
Final thoughts
We like the way this treadmill blends a gym-style running area with solid motor performance and pragmatic features. It isn’t the most glamorous console on the market, but it delivers the essentials that matter for consistent training: a safe, cushioned deck, responsive incline, and reliable top-end speed. For a home user who prioritises running space and straightforward performance over connected software bells and whistles, it’s a compelling choice.
FAQ
How much floor space do we need for this treadmill when in use and when folded?
In use, you should allow not only the treadmill footprint (approximately 165 x 73 cm), but extra clearance behind and above for safety—about 60 cm behind and 100 cm above if someone is running. Folded, the unit needs less floor space but remains fairly deep; plan a dedicated corner, garage wall, or storage alcove rather than a tight cupboard.
Can the motor handle frequent sprints and heavy users?
The continuous 3.5 CHP (6 hp peak) motor is robust for regular interval and sprint sessions. However, for heavier users approaching the 130 kg limit combined with constant maximum-speed sprinting, we recommend staggered sessions and proper warm-ups to reduce strain on the motor and prolong life.
Is the touchscreen suitable for streaming apps like Zwift or Peloton?
The 5.5″ touchscreen is primarily for program selection and displaying metrics; it doesn’t natively support streaming platforms. If you want immersive app experiences, we suggest mounting a tablet or TV nearby and using the treadmill in tandem with the app.
How noisy is the treadmill during intense workouts?
Under normal walking and jogging it’s reasonably quiet thanks to the deck cushioning and motor dampening. High-speed sprints and repeated heavy inclines produce a louder motor hum and some mechanical noise; noise will also vary depending on your floor surface and whether the treadmill is on a rubber mat.
What ongoing maintenance do we need to do to keep it running well?
Basic maintenance includes occasional belt lubrication, checking belt alignment and tension, and tightening exposed bolts. For users who log frequent weekly hours, monthly checks are wise; for lighter use, quarterly inspections are usually sufficient.
Is this treadmill suitable for rehab or low-impact training?
Yes — the eight-point cushioning system reduces joint impact and makes it appropriate for low-impact rehabilitation walks or recovery runs. That said, for clinical rehabilitation scenarios, always follow guidance from a physiotherapist and confirm stability and belt speed ramping meets the prescribed protocol.
