The Proform 505 CST Treadmill is a value-for-money electronic treadmill that has been designed to meet the needs of everyone from the new exerciser to the running enthusiast.
Engineered to give you fast results and packed with advanced features not always seen in treadmills in its price range, this updated model of the original 505 CST has all of the attributes of its very popular predecessor, plus a few more.
Its cushioned deck absorbs impact, making exercising gentle, even for people with joint problems. Solidly built, the 505 CST will remain stable even during hard workouts.
Equipped with auto-incline and speed-control, other notable features of this highly-functional model include iFit Live compatibility, workouts with Google Maps and access to training with one of America’s toughest trainers, Jillian Michaels.
* A one-year subscription to iFit Live is included. To continue accessing the service, you will then need to pay.
In this ProForm CST 505 Treadmill review, we will cover its specs, key features, pros, and cons. We will also look at purchaser opinions, to help you decide if it will be right for you.
ProForm 505 CST Treadmill Infomercial
ProForm 505 CST Treadmill Specs
Assembled dimensions – Assembled, the ProForm 505 CST Treadmill measures approximately 68″ x 73″ x 36″.
Folded dimensions – Folded, it measures approximately 60″ x 36″ x 36″.
Running surface – The running surface for this model is 20″ x 55″.
Weight – The 505 CST weighs 186lbs.
User weight – The treadmill’s upper user weight limit is 325 pounds.
ProForm 505 CST Key Features
- Motor
The Proform 505 CST Treadmill has a hardy 2.25 CHP Mach Z Motor. A self-cooling drive system provides near silent operation. Incorporating an axial fan for reducing noise while cooling internal components, this results in an enhanced workout environment and a longer motor life.
- Monitor
The 505 CST has an easy-to-read 6-inch backlit display monitor. This has a large viewing angle, so tracking your stats will be easy, regardless of your height.
- Programs
The Proform CST 505 Treadmill has 18 built-in workout apps that offer a wide range of 
challenges. These include 5 distance programs, 5 timed programs, 5 calorie-goal workouts, and 3 manual programs. Created by a certified personal trainer, the preset programs will enable you to reach your weight loss goals and training objectives faster. The manual programs allow for personal customization.
The distance program options include a 3K run, a 5K run, a 10K run, a 10-mile run, and a half marathon. Timed programs include a 20-minute Hill Climb, a 30-minute Tempo Hill Run, a 50-minute Speed Run. There’s also a 60-minute Tempo Hill Run and a 60-minute Hill Run.
Calorie-goal workouts include 200 calories (20 minutes, 5 mph, 0% incline), 300 calories (30 minutes, 4 mph, 5% incline), 400 calories (40 minutes, 4.5 mph, 8% incline), 500 calories (40 minutes, 4.6 mph, 8% incline) and 600 calories (40 minutes, 6.7 mph, 2.5% incline).
- Speed & Incline Control
QuickSpeed control enables you to instantly change your speed from 1/2 MPH to 10 MPH and anything in between, at the press of a button. Quick Incline works the same way, instantly taking you from zero incline to level 10 (or any level in between), in one-degree increments.
Transitioning between speeds and incline levels is a smooth process that in no way feels labored.
- Heart rate monitor
A dual-grip EKG heart rate monitor built into the handlebars allows you to track your workouts, constantly displaying your heart rate on the screen. This feature enables you to stay in the best training zone for achieving your fitness and weight loss goals.
- iFit live technology
iFit Live Technology (iFit Live Wireless Adapter required, sold separately) will help provide smarter workouts and even faster results.
Presenting advanced workouts by Google Maps, this feature enables you to customize your program and virtually train with Jillian Michaels. It also allows you to utilize auto incline, speed control, and map drawing, as well as choose your online course location.
Your training results can be stored on iFit.com, which will be accessible to you through your account there. This technology offers new and exciting training opportunities and it will let you virtually run anywhere in the world.
If you run marathons or half marathons you will find this feature not only enjoyable but beneficial, as it will enable you to download the actual course and train under its conditions.
- Music port and sound system
Equipped with MP3/iPod compatible ports, you will be able to get fit to the beat of your favorite hits!
A built-in Acoustics 2.0 Sound System and console shelf deliver a variety of media and audio control to your fingertips. While the sound quality could be better, being able to hook up an iPod certainly beats wearing headphones.
- Accessories
This model has 2 water bottle holders. It also has a tray for holding a magazine or electronic device, and there are two storage cubbies.
ProForm 505 CST Pros
- Comfortable
ProShox Lite 3 Cushioning makes for more comfortable workouts and helps to protect your 
joints from stress. The cushioning also enables you to do longer sessions, with a faster recovery time.
- User-friendly
A simple navigation system lets you select your workout quickly and easily, then get on with exercising without having to mess around with the controls.
The incline of the treadmill’s deck will automatically adjust to match your selected workout, keeping you on track to achieve your goals.
- Assembly
Assembly time for the ProForm 505 ranges anywhere from around 1 1/2 to 3 hours. While some people find the job easy, others find it tricky.
The machine is quite large and heavy, so having a second person assist will make the process easier and faster. It is also a good idea to decide upon a location for the treadmill before you start assembling it.
- Warranty
The ProForm 505 CST Treadmill comes with a Lifetime Warranty on its frame, 25 years on its motor and 1 year on parts & labor.
ProForm 505 CST Treadmill Cons
- Space requirement
The main downside of this model is that it requires quite a bit of space.
- Heavy
The treadmill is heavy, so once assembled, you won’t want to move it unless you have to.
- Assembly
Opinions vary as to the difficulty level of setting up the 505 CST. While most people have no problem with this, some people who left reviews said they found it very difficult and time-consuming. If you don’t want to attempt the job, you can pay extra to have it assembled for you.
- Damaged parts
Though in the vast minority, some purchasers received damaged treadmill parts.
Purchaser Opinions of the ProForm 505 CST Treadmill
The ProForm 505 CST Treadmill has a high buyer approval rating.
Many people have commented positively on the quality and sturdiness of the 505 CST. Its ability 
to fold is appreciated, as is its smooth performance and the comfort of its deck. Some reviewers with “bad knees” said they regularly do extended workouts on the treadmill, without experiencing any discomfort.
Numerous reviewers have commented upon how quiet the treadmill is to use. A number have also left positive feedback regarding its durability.
Taller people expressed satisfaction with its large running surface, which even long-stride runners find more than adequate.
A small number of purchasers received treadmills that were missing parts or had sustained damage in transit. This is an unfortunate occurrence, but it does happen from time to time, no matter the brand or product. Should you experience any such problem, contact customer service who will arrange to have a replacement sent to you.
ProForm 505 CST Treadmill Summary
The 505 CST combines durable build quality with features and functions suitable for new through to more advanced level exercisers.
It doesn’t have the most powerful motor available and it is not equipped with as much speed or as many incline options as some of the more expensive treadmills. However, if you’re looking for a treadmill to walk on or jog on, the 505 CST from fitness leader ProForm, provides enough torque to give a very smooth motion, even when working at top speed using the steepest incline.
Quiet to use, you will be able to set it up in any available space in your home, knowing you will be able to work out whenever you want to, without disturbing anyone else in your household.
The running platform of the ProForm 505 CST Treadmill utilizes special cushioning that reduces joint impact. This means you won’t experience soreness or fatigue in your hips, legs or feet even after long workouts.
While it has a few negatives, these are minor. All in all, the ProForm 505 CST treadmill is a solid and affordable treadmill that will give most people the variety they need to diversify their workouts and improve their fitness.
As a treadmill that can cater to people of most fitness levels, the 505 CST is certainly worth putting on your shortlist. Though not the cheapest treadmill on the market, it is far from the most expensive and it has the durability to last for many years.
Please note that there is a newer version of this model which you can view on Amazon by clicking this link.
Not sure if this is the right treadmill for you? To read more treadmill reviews, click this link.
Click here to read a treadmill buying guide containing 14 tips on buying a treadmill.
