The TRM 243 has a 7″ backlit LCD display that is touch-enabled and high resolution. It offers 27 workout metrics including time, distance, speed, pace, calories, watts, heart rate, incline and % completion. You adjust the speed and the incline with lever like controls, which is a nice touch that you don’t find often.

The machine features SmartRate, which enables you to choose which target zone you want to stay in: fat burn, cardio or peak target. All you need to do is enter your age and weight and the machine automatically determines your ideal zones. It is compatible with a wireless chest strap for more accurate readings, but the chest strap transmitter is not included. (Please note it is included on the Precision Series models, the TRM 425 and the top of the line 445 treadmill.)

You get 23 preset and 16 personalized workouts, up from 10 presets on the TRM 223 and 6 on the base 211 model. These include interval training, hills, weight loss, fat burner, aerobic, toning, distance and fitness, as well as manual workouts. There are also 4 different user profiles, and each user can create preferences that enable the treadmill to suggest workouts based on your goals.

You can also set your own default workout and retrieve previous workouts. The TRM 243 treadmill also comes with Preva integration, which allows you to track every workout and set goals for yourself, as well as a number of other capabilities including web browsing and watching TV.

Some of the other appealing features on the TRM 243 include iPod/iPhone compatibility, a tablet holder, USB port, full length handlebars, water bottle holder and accessory pockets.