FAQ's
Frequently asked questions about all things Boost from our product line to our service and support.
GENERAL
What is a microgravity treadmill?
A microgravity treadmill is a specialized piece of equipment that uses differential air pressure technology to reduce the effective body weight of the user while walking or running. The user's lower body is enclosed in an airtight chamber where positive air pressure provides a lifting force, allowing them to exercise at anywhere from 100-20% of their body weight.
Read more here.
How does a microgravity treadmill work?
The user wears special spandex shorts that zip into an airtight seal around the treadmill bag's opening. Air pressure inflates the chamber, creating positive pressure that provides an upward lifting foce. This technology, originally developed at NASA by our founder's father, effectively reduces the gravitational load on the body while maintaining normal gait mechanics.
Read more here.
What’s the difference between the Boost Treadmill and AlterG® Treadmill?
We are the original creators of AlterG®. Our founders moved on to create a more efficient, accessible and affordable model that packs just as much power. Boost is the improvement on the AlterG® line, created by the same people.
Contact us if you have any specific questions.
Read more here on exactly how Boost differs from AlterG®.
What is the difference between a Woodway 4Front treadmill and a regular treadmill?
Compared to regular treadmills which use flat belts, the Woodway 4Front uses a patented slat belt technology made up of individual slats that are joined together to create a low-friction, smooth, and natural surface. This provides a low-impact user experience that reduces the risk of injury through shock-absorbing technology. It also minimizes wear and tear on the machine, resulting in longer lifespan and reduced maintenance costs. Check out more here.
How can the Boost microgravity technology be used for rehabilitation?
The Boost technology provides a host of benefits for rehabilitation, whether that's in a physical therapy clinic, hospital, or even home setting.
- Enable earlier mobilization after injury or surgery
- Progressively increase weight-bearing during recovery
- Maintain cardiovascular fitness during rehabilitation
- Correct gait abnormalities with reduced joint stress
- Provides fall-safe environment for balance training
- Build strength and endurance gradually
- Return to activity quicker and safer
Read more here.
Can Boost microgravity treadmills help with chronic pain?
Yes, microgravity treadmills can be particularly helpful for chronic pain by allowing patients to exercise with reduced joint impact and compression. This enables individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, or arthritis to maintain fitness and mobility while minimizing pain triggers.
How can the Boost microgravity technology be used for athletics and training?
The use cases for the Boost technology are endless - but when it comes to sports, here are some of the key benefits:
- Enhancing workouts - faster intervals, sprints, hill repeats, and long runs with less joint stress
- Overspeed training
- De-loading on off/recovery days
- Adding mileage without the additional impact
- Cross training tool to prevent injury
- Return-to-sport progression after injury
- Maintain fitness during injury recovery
Read more here.
What does research say about the effectiveness of microgravity treadmills?
Research has demonstrated effectiveness in:
- Accelerating return to activity after lower extremity surgery
- Maintaining cardiovascular fitness during rehabilitation
- Reducing ground reaction forces and joint loading
- Improving gait patterns in neurological patients
- Decreasing pain during exercise in arthritis patients
- Enabling earlier weight-bearing after fractures
Can elderly individuals use Boost microgravity treadmills?
Yes, Boost microgravity treadmills are excellent for older adults in many ways. They can:
- Reduce fall risk during exercise
- Allow exercise despite joint degeneration
- Enable longer exercise duration
- Build confidence in movement
- Provide supported environment for balance training and mobility
How can Boost microgravity treadmills help bariatric patients?
For individuals with obesity, benefits include:
- Exercise capability despite joint stress
- Gradual progression to full weight-bearing
- Improved cardiovascular fitness
- Enhanced mobility and confidence
- Reduced pain during exercise
- Support for weight loss programs
How do Boost microgravity treadmills compare to aquatic treadmills and body weight support harness systems?
Boost vs. Aquatic Therapy
- Precise weight control
- More normal gait patterns
- No water resistance variations
- Easier progress monitoring
- No need for a pool facility
Boost vs. Body Weight Support Harness Systems
- More comfortable support system
- Better natural gait patterns
- Precise weight control
- No upper body restriction
- Integrated treadmill system
PURCHASING
How can I purchase a Boost Treadmill?
It’s easy! If you are interested in purchasing, simply reach out to us directly either via email, phone, chat, or contact form and we will connect you with the best sales representative to get you started on the purchasing process and answer any questions you may have.
What is involved in the purchasing process?
1. Estimate - You will first receive an estimate from one of our sales reps. You will then have the option to accept or decline. Once accepted, you will receive a sales order to confirm the order.
2. Paperwork - Submit the following to us:
- Site survey
- Electrical confirmation
- Purchase order (if applicable)
- Tax exempt form (if applicable)
- Vector logos (if applicable)
3. Production - Once all necessary paperwork is submitted, the machine(s) production process will start.
4. Delivery/installation - You will be notified when your Boost is ready to ship and we will reach out to coordinate delivery date/installation details with your site contact.
5. In-service/training - Your sales rep will provide an in-service within the first 3 weeks of delivery, and all extended warranty customers will be placed on the annual service plan. We will also send a Welcome Email the day after installation to ensure you have all the resources you need after in-service and training.
Do you offer rental or leasing options?
The brand-new Boost 3 model now offers a rental option to make microgravity training technology accessible to anyone.
Contact us and we will work with you to create a program that works for you.
Do you ever offer discounts on your machines?
We occasionally have special promotions and demo machines. Ultimately, we believe in clear, transparent, and fair pricing however we do offer multi-unit discounts. Contact us for more information!
I see that Woodway also sells the Boost 2, can I buy from them?
Of course! We work together so you are absolutely welcome to buy from them and we will work in conjunction to get you the Boost you need.
SHIPPING
How do you handle shipping?
All Boost Treadmills come with white glove shipping, installation and training.
How long will it take to receive my treadmill?
Depending on your needs and our current order levels, it could take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. Need it quicker? Contact us and we will do our best to make it happen. We strive to keep lead times as short as possible as well as communicate expected lead times up front while keeping you updated throughout the production process.
SERVICE
Does my treadmill purchase come with a warranty?
Each Boost treadmill comes with a standard 1 year parts and labor warranty that expires one calendar year after the installation date.
Do you offer extended warranty options?
Absolutely! We have several great extended warranty options to choose from. Each one covers all parts and labor for the duration of years purchased. Plus, all extended warranty holders automatically receive 20% off all shorts and gear for the duration of the warranty.
Contact us to learn about your options.
Something went wrong with my machine. What should I do?
1. Check our Troubleshooting video to see if it’s something that can be fixed easily and quickly on your own.
2. If the issue still cannot be resolved or you need immediate assistance, you can contact Boost Service to open a support case by submitting a service ticket HERE.
What are the costs associated with a service request?
Our goal is to keep service costs as low as possible. We know that our treadmills are a big investment, and we want to do everything we can to support you once you get yours. That’s why we designed our treadmills to be easily fixable either on your own or remotely through our service department. Plus, with your 1 year standard warranty or extended warranty you’ll never have to worry about any costs associated with parts and labor.
How do I get in touch with the service department?
There are several ways to get in touch with our service department:
- Submit a service ticket here (preferred for any service issues needing immediate attention)
- Send a direct email to service@boosttreadmills.com
- Start a chat online and select "Service/Support" then follow the on-screen prompts.
- Give us a call at 510-883-3123
What maintenance is recommended?
We do recommend regular cleaning and preventive maintenance on our treadmills. Click here for a complete guide!
INSTALLATIONS
What are the electrical requirements for each treadmill model?
The Boost 2 Core requires a 110V/120V 20A plug on a single phase dedicated circuit.
The Boost 2 Elite and the Boost 3 require a 208V/220V/240V 20A plug on a single phase dedicated circuit.
What are the dimensions of each treadmill model?
The Boost 2: 82 inches long x 42 inches wide
The Boost 3: 75 inches long x 36 inches wide
What are the space requirements for the Boost 2 Treadmill?
We recommend a space that has the following:
Ceiling that is 24 in higher than the tallest user
Room that is at least 10.5 ft x 5.5 ft
What if I need to put my Boost in a room that does not follow your space recommendations?
Although following our recommendations makes installations go much smoother, we are absolutely able to work with you if these options are unavailable. Just make sure to let us know your restrictions up front. Ultimately, we will work with you prior to shipment to ensure that your Boost can go exactly where you want it to.
BOOST SHORTS
How many pairs of shorts should I buy?
This really depends on the type of facility you have. Here’s what we recommend:
- Universities - 30 pairs per machine
- Professional sports teams - 20 pairs (or 1 pair per athlete)
- PT Clinics - 30 pairs (or 1 pair per patient)
- Home use - as needed
How do I know which size shorts to get?
Please refer to our shorts sizing guide below to help you determine which size will work best for you.
MEN
XS - 26-28
S - 28-30
M - 30-32
L - 32-34
XL - 34-38
2XL - 38-44
3XL - 44-48
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WOMEN
XS - 0-2
S - 4-6
M - 6-8
L - 8-10
XL - 12-14
2XL - 14-16
3XL - 16-18
How do I clean my Boost shorts?
CARE INSTRUCTIONS: The shorts should be washed in a mesh bag on a gentle cycle on cold or warm and hung to dry. They should not be put in a dryer. Alternatively, the shorts may be hand washed with cold-warm water and a mild detergent, rinsed and hung dry. Do NOT put them in a dryer, as this can damage performance fabrics, break down synthetic fibers, and shrink technical garments, especially at high heat settings.
RECOMMENDED DETERGENTS: Any mild or delicate wash detergent (sports specific types preferred. Do NOT use fabric softeners, bleach, or any non-mild detergent.
SANITIZING: A non-toxic commercial grade disinfectant can be used to disinfect and deodorize shorts between uses.
IMPORTANT: Shorts MUST be cleaned strictly according to provided instructions. Using unauthorized cleaners and processes can cause rapid degradation of shorts material and cause leaking of shorts and lead to machine errors. Feel free to contact us with any questions.
How long will the Boost shorts last?
Under normal use, the shorts expected lifetime is about a year as long as they are taken care of according to our cleaning and care recommendations.
Will my Boost shorts work with other microgravity treadmills?
Absolutely! The Boost shorts are compatible with ALL microgravity treadmills on the market, including AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmills™. Plus, they’re super comfortable and light. It’s a win win! Purchase online here.
