Ground Effects® Impact Control System (GFX)
Ground Effects technology overcomes a crucial treadmill problem – how to engineer a running surface that is solid enough to provide maximum stability, and pliable enough to absorb high-impact motion.
Most treadmill decks flex like an inverted bow to absorb shock.
That solves one problem - it reduces stress on joints. But it creates a new one – it is difficult to push off, like jogging in sand.
We analyzed the problem and redefined high-impact running as a low-impact sport that didn’t have to sacrifice stability, safety or speed.
The results were a patented treadmill design that outperforms a natural running surface.
When you run outdoors, the earth provides rock-solid stability. That’s essential for a vigorous, safe running experience. But every time your foot hits the ground, it stresses knees, ankles, hips and other joints – creating discomfort that quickly fatigues the body.
Precor GFX, found on all of our premium treadmills, revolutionized treadmill deck design with more absorption in the front where your foot hits the belt, added rigidity at the back for a firm push off, and greater overall stability vital for healthy joints and safe running.
So you experience an enhanced workout that:
- Absorbs high-impact movements
- Reduces joint stress and minimizes fatigue
- Supports a solid and controlled push off
How this Science works naturally with the human body
Absorbs shock only where you need it – Precor running decks are secured at the back so you get the greatest shock absorption at the front – right where you need it – where the heel hits the tread – for a smooth, natural running motion. This patented design provides maximum lateral stability across the running surface without compromising the give you need at the front for a comfortable workout experience.- Supports a strong push-off– a running deck with enhanced stability makes a strong push off possible. That’s important because without it, your foot sinks as it pushes off, requiring more energy, increasing fatigue, and diminishing workout results. Precor patented treadmill deck design provides added firmness at the back so you get just the right balance of hardness and absorption for a solid push off which reduces stress to the joints.
- Adjusts to your individual needs – Precor innovative technology includes triangular-shaped shock absorbers at the front of the deck. This unique feature progressively absorbs impact based on your height and weight. The combination of lateral stability and variable shock absorption means that whether you’re training for a marathon or recovering from an injury – you’re on a machine that adapts to your build and your workout.
Integrated Footplant Technology™ (IFT™)
Integrated Footplant Technology™ takes one simple fact into account – when you run or walk, the speed of your foot changes.
Precor treadmills register your foot speed and recalibrate the belt velocity up to 710 times per second on our premium treadmills, reducing the joint and shoe discomfort common with treadmills that interrupt, rather than support, your natural running stride.
The result is a patented treadmill technology that fully complements your natural running stride.
When your heel strikes the treadmill, the foot delivers a powerful spike of energy. IFT™ reads this energy spike and uses the information to make minute belt-speed adjustments as you run. So your running stride remains fluid, which reduces fatigues, creates a greater sense of ease, and promotes a more energetic, aerobic workout.
Precor IFT™ redefines treadmill design to synchronize machine movements with human motion.
So you experience an enhanced workout that:
- Feels completely smooth and natural
- Reduces joint stress and minimizes fatigue
- Maximizes aerobic benefit for heart and lungs
How this science works naturally with the human body
- Mimics natural running motion– when running or walking, your foot accelerates and slows during the course of each step. If exercising outdoors, the ground’s firm surface supports the natural acceleration at the beginning of each stride. Precor technology works with this natural acceleration by precisely adjusting belt speed as the foot hits the deck – supporting the natural motion and preventing drag that can pull your foot backwards as you moves forward.
- Harmonizes running speed and belt speed – Precor treadmill design calibrates belt speed so that the treadmill surface shares the benefits of running outside. To do this, equipment software monitors heel strikes and communicates with equipment hardware to adjust motor speed up to 710 times per second on our premium treadmills. The resulting harmony between runner and machine means a smooth, fluid, and rhythmic running experience.
