The best treadmills combine function, style and safety for a workout you look forward to every time. If you’re on a tight schedule or the weather is less than appealing, an at-home treadmill will be your go-to when the mood strikes (or you have a moment to spare). No matter your requirements, the best treadmills for a variety of routines are just a click away and ready to roll into your home.
While a workout mirror or spin bike is a go-to buy for many when kitting out your home gym, the treadmill remains a staple piece of workout equipment for a cardio fix. And if you’re purchasing one for the first time, don’t let the market overwhelm you. There’s a variety of machines to match your every need—while keeping your goals, budget and space requirements in mind. For example, an in-office treadmill warrants a different model to one that is placed in your garage. So first and foremost, measure your space and keep a note of the dimensions required.
The fitness market is constantly churning out new models and upgraded technology, so whether simplicity appeals most or a tech-savvy model is a must (streaming abilities and all), you are sure to find a match.
We’ve rounded up 10 of the best treadmills for a home workout, with detailed specifications to help you make an easy and informed decision.
- Best Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
- Best Value Treadmill: Horizon Fitness T101
- Best Folding Treadmill: Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
- Best Smart Treadmill: Echelon Stride
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill: Urevo 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
- Best Treadmill For Big And Tall Users: Bowflex Treadmill 10
- Best Splurge Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial X32i
- Best Treadmill With Guided Workouts: NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
- Best Treadmill For Walking: Sole F80 Treadmill
- Best Curved Treadmill: Sprintbok Treadmill by NOHrD
- Best Treadmill Desk: Lifespan Fitness TR 1200-Power Treadmill Desk
Best Treadmill Overall
A Highly Rated Option Complete With Bells And Whistles
MOST POPULAR
NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Dimensions: 80 x 38 x 65 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 15%
NordicTrack is a respected brand that has a wealth of experience making exercise gear. The 2022 Commercial 1750 demonstrates that with a solidly built treadmill that should stand up to many years of use. It has a 3.5 CHP motor and a 22-by-60 inch running path with auto adjust technology that allows the treadmill to adjust your incline, decline and speed automatically. All together, it adds up to a quieter experience that greater resembles the open road from the comfort of your home. You can take it up to 12 mph and simulate hilly runs with an incline of up to 15% or decline down to -3%.
The treadmill also boasts a large, vibrant 14-inch HD touchscreen display, and it swivels so you can see it anywhere in the room. It may not be quite as impressive as the 22-inch display on NordicTrack’s X22i treadmill, but you won’t find yourself wishing you had a larger screen. Tactile buttons along the sides of the display make it easy to change the grade and speed, and it syncs with a separately-sold heart rate monitor to fine tune your workouts. The system allows you to use NordicTrack’s iFit personal training app which connects you with trainers from around the world, and integrated Google Maps allows you to run anywhere in the world.
Bottom line: The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 hits all the right notes and is consequently very much in demand, which is why it often goes out of stock.
What the reviews say: “Have had this thing a few days now and am freakin' in love with it. I doubt I'll lose interest...even if I cancel iFit after the year trial, the freedom and flexibility I've got with this thing to run/walk anytime I'm free without being hindered by weather, time of day, personal safety, is pretty liberating. I'm just mad it took me this long to get off the fence about getting one in the first place.”
Pros:
- Powerful motor
- Solid build
- Respectable decline and incline
Cons:
- iFit training system requires a subscription
Best Value Treadmill
An Entry-Level Model That Works For Most People
Horizon Fitness T101
Dimensions: 70 x 34 x 55 inches (Folded: 46 x 34 x 61 inches) | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 10 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
While you can certainly find less expensive treadmills, the Horizon Fitness T101 is the best intersection of price and features. It’s a somewhat small treadmill at just 20-by-55 inches, but it still offers the essential specs that most will probably want. It’s powered by a modest 2.25 CHP motor and offers speeds up to 10 mph and an incline up to 10%. Heart rate is measured through the hand grips, and a small cooling fan helps keep you from melting on hot workout days. There’s an easy-to-use command center console and Bluetooth connectivity that lets you play audio from your phone through built-in speakers. And the treadmill comes with about 30 pre-set workouts programs.
Despite offering all those basics, it still manages to fold up—similar to the way the ProForm SMART Pro 2000 folds up, though perhaps not as efficiently—so it can take up less space when not in use. Still, it’s hard to beat the price tag, especially now that it’s 35% off. You’ll also get a free fitness mat with your purchase from now through Monday, 1/16.
What the reviews say: “I purchased this treadmill a few days ago and so far so good! It does as it is supposed to and straight to the point. It has several pre-programmed workout plans, a small fan that blows on you, and blue tooth capability. If you are looking for a basic treadmill that is not pricey and just get on and go, this one is for you!”
Pros:
- Affordable
- Built-in Bluetooth speakers
- Heart rate sensor
Cons:
- No built-in screen
- Max speed of 10 mph
forbes.comHorizon Fitness Coupon Codes | 5% Off In March 2023 | Forbes
Best Folding Treadmill
A Heavy-Duty Machine That Doesn’t Take Up Much Floor Space
Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
Dimensions: 63.4 x 28.75 x 51.4 inches | Max user capacity: 250 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 10 mph | Incline range: Three levels
The Xterra TRI150 Folding Treadmill is easy to whip out of storage for a quick workout. It features a five-inch LCD display for tracking metrics of speed, incline, time, distance, calories burned and pulse, plus, it has 12 preset programs if your inspiration is dwindling.
One of the main selling points is its ability to fold and slide away under furniture. Plus, it offers a technology called XTRASoft, which claims to provide more cushioning for impact absorption. It only has a 2.25-horsepower motor, meaning it does the job for a brisk walk, but it’s not a suitable treadmill if long-distance running and sprinting are your thing.
What the reviews say: “The treadmill was easy to set up and I've walked over a hundred miles on it and it performs great.”
Pros:
- Folds for simplified storage
- Lifetime frame warranty
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Only three incline settings
- Not the quietest treadmill
Best Smart Treadmill
An Intuitive Machine With Access To Live Or On-Demand Classes
Echelon Stride
Dimensions: 69.3 x 31 x 49.2 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
The Echelon Stride is a treadmill with a modern sensibility. It’s equipped with Bluetooth and can be used with your own tablet (there is no built-in screen), and it folds up automatically at the press of a button, after which you can wheel it out of the way into any corner of the room. With its 1.75 CHP motor, it’s not the most powerful treadmill you can find, but the machine manages a top speed of 12 mph and has a maximum incline of 10%.
While you can use the Stride manually, you’ll get the most out of it if you sign up for a membership to Echelon’s on-demand fitness program. You’ll get access to live classes as well as streaming on-demand sessions, and you can compete on the leaderboard with your own social circle of family and friends. While the monthly fee is $40 per month, the price drops to as little as $29 per month if you commit to a two-year plan.
What the reviews say: “I am 5'6" and have no issue with the size of the tread. I have a small apartment and was worried it would ruin the look of my living room, but it didn't at all. It's a nice looking piece of equipment and takes up very little space. It is also extremely quite compared to your average treadmill.”
Pros:
- Folds at the push of a button
- Wheels for easy movability
Cons:
- Motor isn’t the most powerful
- No built-in monitor
Best Under-Desk Treadmill
Get In Your Steps While Meeting Your Deadlines
Dimensions: 54.7 x 26.4 x 5.1 inches | Max user capacity: 265 pounds | Speed range: Up to 7.6 mph with frame, up to 3.8 mph under desk | Incline range: No incline
If you want to tick both your step count and workload off your to-do list in one fell swoop, consider buying an under-desk treadmill. The Urevo 2-in-1 has the added benefit of converting into a full treadmill with a frame and reaching a speed of up to7.6 miles per hour.
It features five layers of a non-slip running belt, an LED display with remote controls and a 2.5 horsepower motor—which will suffice for walking and jogging, but nothing more.
It also has transportation wheels to slide away without much effort.
What the reviews say: “I sat way too much while working and now I’m walking an average of 6-10 miles a day while working. This treadmill is a lifesaver.”
Pros:
- Compact for easy storing
- Slides under a desk for a workout while you work
- Relatively cheaper than many other treadmills
Cons:
- Limited speed range
- No incline option
Best Treadmill For Big And Tall Users
An Advanced Model With A Beefy Deck And Impressive Features
Bowflex Treadmill 10
Dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 inches | Max user capacity: 400 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -5 to 15%
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is a smart choice for bigger folks looking to get into walking, jogging or running. The deck, which has Comfort Tech cushioning for softer impact, supports a maximum user weight of 350 pounds, which is also at the high end of what many consumer treadmills are equipped to handle.
And one of the best parts? It has an extra large, 10-inch HD display that you can use to access 26 built-in workout programs to burn calories, run further or get faster. The machine inclines up to 15% and you can vary the speed up to 12 mph.
What the reviews say: “I dislike the fact that there’s a membership attached to using the streaming services. Besides that, it didn’t take that long to regain my confidence in working out. I’m simple. I use the standard display where it shows your speed, distance, incline, etc. I do not really expect much out of a treadmill to begin with, so the machine makes it easy for me to stay on track with my workout sessions.”
Pros:
- High weight capacity
- 10-inch touchscreen
- Compatible with different apps
Cons:
- Large footprint
Best Splurge Treadmill
A Commercial-Grade Treadmill That’s Built To Last
NordicTrack Commercial X32i
Dimensions: 76.5 x 40 x 73 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 40%
If you have the space and the budget, the NordicTrack Commercial X32i is an excellent splurge option. Although this commercial-grade treadmill is pricey, you’re paying for a machine that’s designed to stand up to daily pounding for years with users up to 300 pounds. And it has a 4.25 CHP motor—significantly more powerful than most.
It comes equipped with an upgraded 32-inch LED touchscreen and includes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can connect it to any of your favorite mobile apps. And with an iFit subscription, you can take advantage of live workouts as well as pre-recorded options from places like Austria and Africa.
What the reviews say: “Design is elegant, functional and efficient. Superbly engineered for quiet, smooth operation and flexible positive/negative incline. Excellent iFIT integration. Incline and tension are auto-responsive to manually entered road routes with data from Google Maps. Recently upgraded iFIT app includes workout data integration with Apple Health app (finally!). Clean, uncluttered design makes this a suitable addition to living spaces, rather than basement or garage “home gym”.”
Pros:
- Powerful motor
- 32-inch touchscreen
- Compatible with different apps
Cons:
- Expensive
Best Treadmill With Guided Workouts
An Interactive Model That Brings The Personal Trainer To You
NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
Dimensions: 79.9 x 35.08 x 59.25 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 12%
Even though Peloton might be the treadmill you think of when it comes to taking classes, the NordicTrack EXP 10i is the treadmill you probably want to use to follow an on-screen trainer. And for a fraction of the price, to boot.
The 10-inch screen that relies on NordicTrack’s excellent iFit app lets you choose from a library of 17,000 or so guided workouts set in beautiful locations across seven continents. You also have access to studio workouts, yoga, cross-training and more. Want to run anywhere on earth? NordicTrack lets you with help from Google Maps. And the workout sessions can take control of the treadmill to dial in the appropriate incline and speed without your manual input. Meanwhile, you can connect your mobile device to the Bluetooth speakers to play your favorite music.
The treadmill itself is built around a 3.5 CHP motor and the belt is padded with NordicTrack’s FlexSelect Cushioning that helps simulate a real running experience while lowering the impact on your joints. You get a range of -3% to 12% incline and 12 mph speed.
What the reviews say: “I keep it in my dining room. I get to visit anywhere in the world where I want to while I workout. I'm learning about new places. I get to visit these places with my own personal guide and if I so desire, I can revisit as many times as I want all while getting my workout in!”
Pros:
- 10-inch touchscreen
- Shock-absorbing cushioning
Cons:
- Display only compatible with iFit app ($15 to $39 per month)
Best Treadmill For Walking
An Intuitive Machine With A Wide Belt
Sole F80 Treadmill
Dimensions: 80 x 33 x 58 inches | Max user capacity: 375 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 15%
While you can use any treadmill for walking, the Sole F80 is a top pick. It has a wide 22-inch belt that’s double woven with a one-inch cushion flex, so your feet stay comfortable even during longer workouts. Quick adjustment controls on the arm rests make it easy to control the speed and incline while you’re walking. And with a 15% maximum incline, you’re guaranteed to feel the burn, even at lower speeds.
The 9-inch LCD display guides you through 10 pre-programmed workouts, or you can use the integrated tablet holder to catch up on Netflix or your favorite podcast while you walk. Of course, with a top speed level of 12 mph and a 3.5 CHP motor, it’s powerful enough for running or jogging, too.
What the reviews say: “I did not expect to receive such a high-quality unit that was priced so fairly. This is even nicer than most of the treadmills I have used in gyms and hotels before. Thank you, Sole. Very Very impressed with your product.”
Pros:
- Wide belt
- Arm rest controls
- 15% max incline
Cons:
- No built-in touchscreen
Best Curved Treadmill
A Sure Way To Go On The Sleekest Run Of Your Life
Sprintbok Treadmill by NOHrD
Dimensions:70.9 x 27.6 x 55 inches |Max user capacity:352 pounds |Speed range:Manual |Incline range:None
One of the most design-driven treadmills on the market, the Sprintbok not only delivers in function but is also a piece of art for your home gym. Available in six solid wood colors, the machine’s aesthetic is a nod to the first-ever treadmill—a motorless apparatus that works as hard as you do.
For a modern twist, a 17.3-inch touchscreen tablet integrates sleek technology into its contemporary design. Here you can link with the SprintBok app to track your metrics or set a scenic run to spur you on. It also features laminated wooden slats for a quieter run and natural rubber between the slats and belt for impact absorption.
While it’s pricey, that's often the case with curved treadmills. Given the manual element, they require advanced shock absorbers, a friction-free running belt and impeccable manufacturing for a seamless run.
What the reviews say: “Super impressed with the high quality of this beautiful piece of equipment. Materials are high-end, aesthetic is pleasing, and function is fantastic.”
Pros:
- Burns more calories than traditional treadmills
- Integrated 17.3-inch touchscreen tablet
- Choice of five wood colors
Cons:
- Motorless
- No incline like traditional treadmills
- Incredibly expensive
Best Treadmill Desk
When WFH Stands For Work Out From Home
Dimensions: 68.5 x 38 inches | Max user capacity: 350 pounds | Speed range: 0.4 to 4 mph | Incline range: N/A
Looking for a treadmill desk? Here’s one from LifeSpan that features an adjustable base, a large desktop surface and Bluetooth capability, so you can sync your devices. Plus, you can connect to LifeSpan’s free app to track your progress over time. We do recommend switching to sneakers whether you’re walking or running on the treadmill.
What the reviews say: “Within 2 hours of discovering there was such a thing, I had a Lifespan TR1200 at my home office. That was ~8 years ago. Then I wanted one for my actual office; that was ~7.5 years ago. And now I need one for both of my Iowa locations and 1 in my Houston-area office. Love them a ton! I do prefer the one with the motorized desk height adjustment; and that's the one I'm about to purchase. Strongly recommend these for helping keep anyone moving while still managing to get serious work done.”
Pros:
- Adjustable desk height
- Quiet operation
- Bluetooth connectivity available
Cons:
- No built-in touchscreen
- Expensive
MORE FROMFORBES VETTED
The Best Of The Rest: Honorable Mentions
A Lightweight Option That Slides Right Under Your Desk
Dimensions: 50.6 x 5.5 x 22.4 inches | Max user capacity: 220 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 6 mph | Incline range: None
Lightweight and easy to use at a moment’s notice, this under-the-desk treadmill suits those in need of a little exercise working permanently (or part-time) from home. Weighing only 50 pounds, the design moves easily from one room to the next thanks to flexible rollers while a 2.25-horsepower motor delivers quiet power should you care to walk in the midst of a long online meeting.
To prevent you from bending over and fumbling under your desk every time you’d like to use the treadmill, GoYouth also supplies a smart remote that controls basic functions like speed and power. A workout app tracks your speed, time, mileage and calories from your phone, and an integrated Bluetooth speaker plays your favorite work-ready tunes or podcasts.
What the reviews say: “I originally chose this standing desk treadmill not because it had a ton of reviews but because the reviews it did have mentioned the superb customer service behind this product. Lo and behold, the reviews were right. During shipping, the treadmill endured a small defect (not the companies fault & the defect did not affect the functionality of the treadmill). I contacted GoYouth and within hours they were ready and available to fix the issue. We came to an agreement of how the defect would be handled and I can say I am blown away by the generosity and responsiveness of this company. The situation was handled in less than a week and I am thrilled with the outcome. If you want to buy a treadmill such as this from a company that stands by their product look no further.”
Pros:
- Portable design
- No assembly required
- Control functions from your desk via smart remote
Cons:
- Running belt requires intermittent lubrication
A Budget-Friendly Pick That Comes Highly Reviewed
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill
Dimensions: 64.5 x 28 x 50.5 inches | Max user capacity: 240 pounds | Speed range: 1 to 8 mph | Incline range: 0 to 12%
While the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill didn’t earn our a spot in our 10 ranking categories, it does earn honorable mention for its stellar reviews and a budget-friendly price. For those looking to invest in a simple, no-frills treadmill, the SF-T7515’s easy-to-use interface and suite of basic features will be a welcome addition to any home. Such features include a heart rate monitor positioned on the handrail, a digital monitor that tracks basic stats and a media port that connects via Bluetooth (or a wired cable) to play your favorite media from a set of onboard speakers. And when it’s not in use, the design features a hydraulic mechanism under the treadmill that allows you to store it in an upright position, and the same component drops the treadmill down slowly when you’re ready to work up a sweat.
What the reviews say: “I had been looking for six months for a treadmill; this was the perfect selection. I’m not a runner, but love to walk and this treadmill is perfect for that. It is not noisy at all and very easy to use. Auto incline and speed hand control is what I love most!”
Pros:
- No-frills interface
- Budget-friendly price
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- Lacks a few handy features found on higher-end models
Another Curved Model That Lacks A Motor
Dimensions: 70 x 33 x 64 inches | Max user capacity: 350 pounds | Speed range: 20 mph max | Incline range: N/A
Unlike traditional treadmills that rely on a motor to move a belt, curved treadmills use your body’s power to move the belt—each step on the inclined surface pushes the belt backward, which forces you to keep moving. While research suggests curved treadmills may provide a better workout (more on that later), the AssaultRunner Pro stands as one of the best options on the market thanks to its built-in training modes, incredible warranty and durable construction. The digital display lacks the vibrancy and color found on other premium treadmills, but it provides an accurate picture of calories burned, distances run, speed attained and more. If you’re in the market for a nontraditional treadmill that has its own cult following, and for good reason, look no further.
What the reviews say: “The treadmill is smooth, sturdy, and looks great. I cannot compare to others because this is the only motorless model I have used. So far, I am very happy with it. The belt only goes one way so you do not feel the slip you sometimes feel on forward strides like you do on some treadmills. They are a bit pricy but well worth it.”
Pros:
- Substantial 10-year warranty
- Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
- Incredibly durable
Cons:
- Prohibitively expensive
- Unlike a traditional motorized treadmill
How We Chose The Best Treadmills Of 2023
We’ve performed extensive research when searching for the best treadmills. This includes patiently sifting through firsthand reviews from professional testers and consumers, but it also means we’ve tested (and enjoyed) many of these treadmills ourselves, in the comfort of our own homes.
This article is updated regularly so that availability, prices and ratings stay up to date. We also re-evaluate our treadmill picks upon each update to ensure that they’re still (in our opinion) some of the best choices in their categories. This story was last updated in January 2023.
What To Consider When Buying A Treadmill
There are countless treadmills to choose from—how do you know which is best for your workout and your home? For starters, it’s a mechanical system that will need to absorb a lot of physical punishment on a daily basis, so it needs to be sturdy and rugged. But there are a lot of other factors to consider as well.
Budget
With a clear budget in mind, you can consider what category of treadmill to invest in. Keep in mind, even on the lower end, treadmills are pricey. For example, anything that costs less than $1,000 is probably not going to last for more than a couple of seasons; the motor and belt simply won’t be resilient enough. From around $1,500, many treadmills provide the same standard of a model you’d find in a gym and with a tread that will do more than tone down the volume—like absorb some of the shock for your joints.
Power
One critical specification to consider is the motor’s CHP—the continuous horsepower rating—which should be no less than 2.5 if you want to use it routinely for running. A treadmill that lists a lower CHP (or avoids referring to CHP entirely and only tells you its peak HP), is more likely to burn out prematurely. This might be OK if you’re just using your treadmill for walking or light jogging, but runners should check this stat before proceeding.
Noise
A noisy treadmill is not ideal if you share your space or have people living above or below you. Opting for a reduced noise option, free of creaks and squeaks, will not only keep your neighbors happy if you live in a multi-apartment building, but will make for a more enjoyable workout.
Dimensions
The dimensions of your treadmill matter not only for the space you’re going to put it in, but also for what you plan on doing with it. When it comes to your movement on the machine, it’s important to keep in mind that walkers have a shorter gait and stride than runners, so while a treadmill with a belt about 50-inches long will work for walkers, runner will need at least 60-inches. In order to safely get on an off your fancy new piece of equipment, you’ll also want to give yourself about 6-feet of space behind the treadmill and 2 to 3 feet on either side to account for and sway while it’s in use.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority with any gym equipment you purchase, especially with a cardio machine that features moving components. You’ll want to check for fixed handrails and a study surface for tougher workouts. Many treadmills have an emergency clip to shut down the belt in the event of a fall.
Warranty
Like anything else with this type of price tag (think: kitchen appliances, your car or computer), the treadmill you buy should come with a warranty to back it up. After reviewing all of our recommendations as well as warranty standards from other manufacturers, it’s clear that you should be receiving three to seven years of coverage on parts and at least one year on labor (so should you need it, you won’t have to pay for someone to fix your treadmill under a year after bringing it home). The frame and the motor should be covered for the lifetime of the machine.
Other Special Features
You’ll also want to consider factors like shock absorption, cushioning and capability in addition to the actual running specs: How fast can it go, does it incline and can it decline as well? Also, make a note of the maximum weight rating—is it suitable for everyone in the house who might want to use it?
One of the hottest trends in home exercise gear these days is subscription-based workout classes, and many treadmills offer this feature as well. Some models come with large LCD or HD displays that let you immerse yourself in online coaching sessions and workouts, but beware, this requires a monthly or annual monetary commitment.
What Is The Best Treadmill For Home Use?
This comes down to a number of factors: budget, space and functionality. The best treadmill for your home will be one that won’t break the bank, fits snuggly into whatever space you’re working with and has as all the design features your heart desires to keep you motivated during workouts. For some, a simple no frills machine will do the trick, whilst others might want an innovative machine complete with the latest tech—be that a HD touchscreen or smart technology integration. As mentioned above, noise is another factor to consider.
How Do I Choose Between A Folding And Regular Treadmill?
This all boils down to space. There are plenty of folding treadmills on the market that provide all of the power and special features as a standard treadmill, but if you don’t have the room to leave a regular treadmill out all of the time, a folding option might be best for you. If you’re really aching to have a machine in your home but can’t find the space for even a folding treadmill, you might find something that suits your need in a desk treadmill, which is simply the belt without a frame, meaning it can slide under a table or couch when you’re not walking on it.
Which Is Better: A Treadmill Or Elliptical?
Treadmills and ellipticals are both cardio equipment, but they differ in function. Elipticals have the advantage of being lower impact as your feet remain in contact with the pedals. However, ellipticals often have a bigger footprint since most of them don’t fold—problematic when space is limited.
Treadmills are arguably more versatile than ellipticals. Whether walking, jogging or performing full out sprints on a flat surface or incline, your workouts are varied. If you’re gearing up for a marathon or road race, a treadmill might be necessary for training purposes too.
What Are The Best Treadmill Brands?
Some of the most popular brands on the market are also the most durable, have the best warranties and come with the most interesting features. This includes machines made by Nautilus, Horizon Fitness, Bowflex, NordicTrack and ProForm, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a treadmill that suits your needs outside of this list from other retailers, and even on Amazon. Reading reviews and checking off the features on our list is a great place to start. Many brands also offer a trial period where you can have the treadmill in your home to test out for yourself. Be sure to read the fine print here, however, as some stores might charge you to pick it up or to restock the item if you want to send it back.
Is A Treadmill Better Than Walking?
Both have their benefits. A treadmill is a stable, predictable walking pattern that you can control at all times. Whereas the great outdoors is full of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. For training purposes, a treadmill can offer assistance in tracking workouts, speeds, inclines and calorie burn. Whereas stepping outside has its own set of benefits, not least its positive impact on your mental health. There’s no reason to opt for one over the other. Use your treadmill for tracking workouts and head outdoors to clear your mind in the fresh air.
Is Treadmill Running Easier Than Running Outdoors?
Believe it or not, running on a treadmill is a little easier than running outdoors because you’re exercising in a controlled environment. There’s no wind resistance, no obstacles to dodge on the street and the surface is completely flat unlike a bumpy road or rugged trail. To better simulate traditional road running, set your treadmill’s incline to at least 1%.
What Brand Of Treadmills Do Gyms Use?
Gyms and fitness centers use commercial treadmill models that operate over prolonged periods of time, through consistent use. Some of the more popular commercial models include the Spirit CT850, the Landice L8 Pro Sport Treadmill and the True Performance 800.
So what makes a commercial treadmill different from a residential model? Well, commercial treadmills are usually heavier, larger and more durable, and they cost more too. They’re designed to handle the added stress that comes from frequent use, and they support heavier individuals. Generally speaking, you won’t need to invest in a commercial treadmill unless you live in a household with multiple users.
Are Curved Treadmills Better?
Curved treadmills look and operate much like a traditional treadmill, but they differ in that they don’t require a motor to move a belt. The concave design of the track allows you to walk or run while each foot strike on the sloped surface pushes the belt backward, which forces you to continue moving.
The design of a curved treadmill allows you to engage more muscle groups as your body is working harder to push the belt backward. Manufacturers claim you can burn up to 30% more calories than you would on a traditional treadmill. And unlike a traditional treadmill, there’s no limit to how fast (or slow) you can run on a curved treadmill.
The Best Time To Buy A Treadmill
A treadmill can be a spendy purchase and not something you’ll want to buy on a whim. While annual sales (like Memorial Day Sales, Labor Day Sales and Black Friday) offer great discounts on treadmills, the best time to buy a treadmill is usually in January when prices are severely discounted to attract those of us that made New Year’s resolutions.