If you are looking for a home treadmill that will replicate the experience of using a treadmill in the gym or health club, the Phoenix 98516 is clearly not the unit for you. This is an inexpensive, low-tech manual treadmill; in other words, you power the belt. The faster you walk or jog, the faster the belt revolves, so you never have to exercise at a rate that is uncomfortable for you.

The construction of the Phoenix 98516 is solid enough, but we would question the unit's long-term durability. Since there is no motor and very few extraneous features, the 98516 saves on space; when not in use, it folds up easily and can be wheeled on the convenient transport rollers into a closet for storage. The treadmill weighs just 44 pounds, so it is light enough for most people to move without assistance.

When in use, the Phoenix 98516 offers a small walking surface that is 41.5X13.5 inches. Some shorter users may be able to get up to a jogging pace on the 98516, but for most people, this is a treadmill that is designed purely for walking; it certainly isn't designed for taking long strides. As it is, we detected some squeaking sounds during a leisurely walk on the 98516.

This model comes equipped with a simple electronic display that tracks your speed, distance, time and an estimation of the calories burned. It is designed to support users up to a maximum weight of 250 pounds. The 98516 comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and 90 days for parts and labor. Clearly, this is not a treadmill that has been built to sustain vigorous workouts over many months or years. In our opinion, any exercise is better than none, however, so if you are an older user or simply looking for an easy, inexpensive way to burn a few calories while you watch TV, this treadmill may suit you. Anyone looking for a vigorous workout, though, should avoid the Phoenix 98516 manual treadmill.


Pros: Inexpensive, compact
Cons: Suitable only for walking, small walking surface