In July 2025, the University of Manchester welcomed a new addition to its cutting-edge engineering department: the h/p/cosmos Pluto Med treadmill with reverse belt rotation, supplied and installed by HaB Direct. This high-performance treadmill is set to become a cornerstone in the university’s biomechanical and wearable technology research, helping academics and engineers replicate real-world running conditions with exceptional accuracy.
The Challenge: A Road-Like Running Experience for Research
The journey began back in 2022, when the university first contacted HaB Direct. The engineering department had been searching for a treadmill robust enough to support advanced biomechanical testing. Their requirements were precise:
- Rigid frame support with zero flex, ensuring results that replicate the true forces of running on the road.
- Capability for downhill running tests, vital for studying the effects of varied gradients on both human performance and wearable technology.
- A treadmill suitable for long-term, high-intensity use, withstanding repeated testing sessions.
Initially, the university team assumed they would need a large, heavy treadmill to eliminate flex in the belt and frame. They also expected that larger treadmills would naturally provide greater stability.
The Solution: h/p/cosmos Pluto Med with Reverse Belt Rotation
After detailed discussions, HaB Direct specialists Tom Cowell and Pete Brown were able to clarify that treadmill size does not affect frame rigidity in the h/p/cosmos range. Every model is built with a high-strength frame, meaning that even smaller models deliver the same uncompromising stability as larger units.
Armed with this knowledge, the university was able to select a treadmill that met all their needs without overspending. The chosen model, the h/p/cosmos Pluto Med, came with:
- A safety arch, ensuring protection during testing.
- Reverse belt rotation, enabling safe and controlled downhill running simulations.
- Proven durability for continuous research applications.
This solution provided exactly what the research team required: a road-like running feel, downhill testing capability, and long-term reliability. All in a more cost-effective package than originally anticipated.
h/p/cosmos pluto Treadmill Ergometer
The h/p/cosmos pluto provides the exceptional quality and innovation of a h/p/cosmos at an entry-level price. The h/p/cosmos pluto treadmill is virtually indestructible with its sturdy frame. It is very low maintenance and provides the user with a comfortable run due to its advanced construction.
It caters to a wide range of applications, including endurance training, walking and running, stress device for performance testing, gait analysis and gait training control.
Installation
When it came time to install the treadmill in July 2025, the HaB Direct team ensured the process was seamless. With convenient access via a loading bay and service lift, the treadmill was transported into position with minimal disruption.
The University of Manchester also provided a team of three porters to assist, making the move both safe and efficient. Once in place, HaB Direct engineers completed the setup and delivered comprehensive on-site training, allowing the department to start using the treadmill straight away.
“The install went very well. The team at UoM were accommodating and helpful throughout, and we were able to complete training quickly. The customer was left extremely happy with the service provided.” – HaB Direct installation team
Results: A Long-Awaited Addition for the University of Manchester
For the engineering department, the treadmill represents the fulfilment of a three-year journey. After careful planning and consultation, they finally have a solution that supports their innovative wearable technology research.
The h/p/cosmos Pluto Med allows the team to:
- Replicate the exact forces of road running without frame flex.
- Conduct downhill running studies, a crucial factor for testing wearables in realistic conditions.
- Push forward with new research projects that require reliable, repeatable performance data.
Feedback from the university has been extremely positive. The treadmill ergometer not only met expectations but also delivered cost savings compared to the initially proposed larger unit.
Why h/p/cosmos Treadmills are the Gold Standard for Research
Trusted by universities, sports science institutes, and hospitals worldwide, h/p/cosmos treadmills are engineered to meet the highest standards of accuracy and reliability. Key benefits include:
- Unmatched frame strength for precise biomechanical measurements.
- Options for reverse belt rotation to replicate uphill and downhill conditions.
- Modular designs that can be tailored with safety arches, measurement tools, and control systems.
- Proven track record in clinical testing, sports science, and advanced engineering research.
For research institutions, investing in an h/p/cosmos treadmill means access to world-class equipment that delivers consistent, repeatable results. Thus making it an invaluable asset for both academic and clinical studies.
Partnering with HaB Direct
At HaB Direct, we don’t just supply equipment, we partner with institutions to ensure they get the right solution for their research and clinical needs. From consultation and specification to installation, training, and ongoing support, our goal is to make sure every customer gets the maximum value from their investment.
The University of Manchester’s new treadmill is a great example of how the right advice and product selection can deliver exceptional results, both scientifically and financially.
Are you ready to take your fitness and research facility to the next level?
At HaB Direct, we specialise in providing top-tier equipment solutions like the h/p/cosmos ergometer treadmills. If you’re looking to enhance your Sports Science facilities, Rehabilitation services or sports training programs, our dedicated team is here to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs. Contact us today to discover how our products and services can support your goals. Let’s embark on this journey towards excellence together.
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