Best Treadmills 2024: Reviews & Comparisons

Shopping for a new treadmill? With such a huge selection of machines on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Fortunately, I have pulled together a list of 2024’s best treadmills to help you with your research and to help you make a decision.

The treadmill selection below is made up of innovative models from both established and up-and-coming fitness brands. I cover everything you need to know before you buy. This includes the key manufacturer specifications of each treadmill from the motor (performance, quality, and speed), to the workout options, warranty, price range and beyond. And, if you’re looking for a specific type of treadmill–like the top model for interactive streaming or the most budget-friendly buy–you’ll appreciate my top picks in various categories to help further streamline your search.

Discover the best treadmills on the market below. Want to get to grips with the basics before you start your search? Scroll down to our Essential Treadmill Features section to learn more about what to look out for when shopping for a new treadmill.

Why You Should Trust This Review of Best Treadmills on the Market Today 2024

At TreadmillReviews.net, we bring you comprehensive reviews of treadmills so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the treadmills we review. We install them, walk on them, run on them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every treadmill we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles on the deck. We listen and record the sound of the motor, we test and measure the incline/decline, try out all aspects of the console and try the treadmill’s features, such as iFit.

Every treadmill we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think. We have tried each of the treadmills in this comparison and we give an honest review of each of them, to help you make a buying decision.

Our reviewers are treadmill and fitness experts. Fitness Expert Brian Boyce, the author of this review, is an experienced professional bodybuilder, and is a 7-time national qualifier in both men’s bodybuilding and classic physique within the NPC competitions. He has coached and been coached on cardiovascular training, HIIT, and nutrition, particularly as it pertains to weight loss for competitions. He is an expert at treadmills. He runs on treadmills 5 to 6 times a week and has walked and run on treadmills for over 20 years. As a fitness expert, you can trust his opinion on all of the treadmills he reviews.

How Treadmills Were Selected for This Best-Of List

Every treadmill you’ll see in this market list was researched, and and-tested to ensure you know exactly what to expect if you make a purchase. As a competitive athlete who has trained for everything from 5k’s to triathlons, marathons, and more, I’ve used dozens of treadmills over the years and know the ins and outs of what to look for. I look at these treadmills as a runner or walker, and I share my perspective on each of the treadmills on this list from experience.

In this roundup, I’ve considered the premium features including motor size, incline/decline, speed, special programming options, warranty, and integrated technology. Each product is assessed without bias as some treadmills are simply better for certain types of training than others. I will cover what sets each apart, why those features matter, and how each device measures up.

For each treadmill, I also provide multiple choices of where you can buy that treadmill, so you can choose which merchant you prefer to buy from, and links to the manufacturer to help you make your decision.

Top Treadmills by Category

1. Best Overall Treadmill – NordicTrack 1750

Good for: Walkers and runners looking for guided programming (iFit) from a brand name manufacturer. A great treadmill for decline training and to simulate the road outside.

Where you can buy a NordicTrack 1750 Check price at NordicTrack Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy a NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill $1,999 See details $1,999.98 See details

For those wanting to enjoy on-demand training classes on a reputable and well-built treadmill, at $2,299 the 1750 is a fantastic choice. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 has held our top spot for quite some time, and you won’t find another treadmill with these specs and features for the same low price. I put this treadmill through over 60 miles of hands-on testing, both walking and running, when evaluating the NordicTrack 1750.

The 1750 is the standard now among NordicTrack’s Commercial Series, but that doesn’t detract from its quality. It can handle any type of training, from gentle walking to long-distance running. If you want a high quality commercial-grade treadmill, the Commercial 1750 is an excellent choice that will keep you motivated for many years to come.

From a quiet 3.5 CHP motor to a 14″ iFit-enabled touchscreen, the NordicTrack 1750 is a powerful, connected treadmill that’s priced right. Highlights include: Bluetooth audio; a 14-inch HD iFit-enabled touchscreen (with a free 30-day iFit membership included) for interactive training and stats tracking; and incline/decline to tone your lower body (15% and 3% respectively).

NordicTrack 1750’s console is able to tilt and pivot. This allows users to easily engage in iFit programming off the machine to expand fitness options with strength, flexibility, balance, and much more. Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

As someone who has run on this treadmill for years, the pro’s listed below set this treadmill apart from its’ competition. I particularly like how quiet the motor is, as I often run when others in the house are asleep, early morning. The incline range is one of the best in the market, and helps me really push my workouts even harder than I can on similar machines, such as the Sole F80 or F85.

The NordicTrack 1750 is a big machine, and the assembly takes time. I personally put this machine together in my fitness barn, and it took over 85 minutes. If you decide to assemble this yourself, make sure you have a socket wrench, as it made bolt tightening much faster. Attaching the heavy console is almost a 2 person job, and you can use the help when connecting the wiring.

NordicTrack has a great video on assembly that I followed, that you can too, when building this unit:

While incline training forces runners to engage the hamstrings, decline training focuses on the quadriceps. If you’ve ever tried walking down a steep hill you know the burn you feel in the front of your legs. These muscles are often ignored when leaning forward for sprints. And because your toes point down with the heel coming up while running at an incline, the calf muscle flexes in the opposite direction when training downhill. A study published in the journal Clinical Biomechanics is just one of many affirming that quadricep fatigue during decline work on a treadmill is real.

In short: I love this machine for the decline, and recommend it strongly for anyone who wants to include decline training in their workout.

NordicTrack has a product page with information about this treadmill, to help you with your research: NordicTrack 1750 Product Page. To learn more about the NordicTrack 1750 treadmill, please read my in-depth, first hand expert review of the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

Key Specs

2. Our Runner-Up: Sole F80

Good for: Someone looking for lower-tech options but still has great speed, durability, and 15 levels of incline. Has great shock absorption for anyone with bad knees.

Where to buy a Sole F80 Check price at Sole Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy a Sole F80 $1,899 See details $1,699 See details

Powerful, durable, and with the best warranty available, the Sole F80 has something to offer just about any runner. If you’re not interested in the iFit-style streaming training model and just want a rock solid treadmill that will continue to perform year after year, the Sole F80 is the best choice. You can now track your stats via the Sole Fitness app and stream audio to the treadmill’s built-in speakers, but you don’t need a monthly subscription to enjoy an assortment of built-in workout programs. It’s also cheaper than most treadmills on our list!

I’ve run hundreds of hours on this treadmill and it did the job well for my workouts. I found the treads super durable, and as someone who’s 5’10, I found the 60-inch tread belt to be terrific for my long stride runs.

The treadmill has a whole host of impressive specs, including a roomy 22″ x 60″ running deck, a commercial-standard 3.5 HP motor, and a power incline up to 15%. Other highlights include: a 10.1″ LCD display with 10 preset programs; a built-in tablet holder; and Bluetooth connectivity for audio and stats tracking. The Sole F80 lets you track your stats easily and efficiently. The free Sole Fitness app can even sync your workout data to your favorite fitness app like Fitbit, Record, or Apple Health so you can monitor your progress on your own terms. Best of all, Sole and the popular Studio app has launched an integration that takes home fitness to new levels. Enjoy social engagement and professional-level guidance by elite athletes at a fraction of the cost of expensive personal training sessions.

Deck of the Sole F80

I followed this assembly video from Sole when assembling this unit. It was relatively easy to do, but I would suggest a second person to help you set it up, as you often have to hold pieces in place before tightening them.

Whatever your fitness ability or training preference, the Sole F80 will be a fantastic choice. It’s a good mid-range option between the brand’s entry-level F63 treadmill and their elite F85 model. It delivers club-quality components and a host of modern features for an impressive price.

I would choose this treadmill if I was okay without having iFit, and wanted a good, cost effective treadmill that is almost as good as the NordicTrack 1750, and if you are looking for larger roller sizes and really durable treads. I would also choose it if was focused on a treadmill that could handle more shock for my knees.

I’ve written an expert, first-hand review of the Sole F80 if you are interested in seeing what I thought as a fitness expert during my training on this treadmill.

Key Specs

3. Best for Streaming Classes: NordicTrack X22i

Where to buy NordicTrack X22i Check price at NordicTrack Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy NordicTrack X22i $3,499 See details  $3,499 See details $3,499 See details

Interactive training has taken the fitness world by storm. These days it’s an important thing to consider when shopping for a new treadmill because it’s something that can keep you motivated for years to come. The X22i will do just that.

Its impressive 22″ touchscreen fully immerses you in iFit workouts, and its dramatic 40% incline allows for a sort of hybrid workout that’s much like using a treadmill and stepper all at once. This in combination with the basically unlimited streamed iFit programs–which you get free for a whole year–allow you to diversify your training, so you’ll never get bored. And with your iFit trainer automatically adjusting your incline and speed within workouts, it’s much like having a personal trainer in your living room.

It’s worth noting that the NordicTrack X32i has an even bigger screen (32″). But you will be paying a whole thousand bucks more for the privilege, as well as a few other extras (such as slightly higher motor power). The X22i will deliver basically the same experience for a much lower price.

Other highlights which enhance the interactive training experience include: a powerful 4.0 CHP motor that can keep pace with a streamed workout’s changes in speed and incline; a 22″ Smart HD touchscreen; and a free iFit Bluetooth chest strap so you can monitor your stats on-screen.

I assembled this treadmill following NordicTrack’s video below. It was a heavy treadmill to setup and I needed help from a second person to help assemble it.

Be prepared: This is a BIG unit, and it does not fold. It measures 70″ x 39″ x 72.5″ at an in-box weight of 417 pounds, it can sport up to 300 pounds in user weight. It comes with 2.5″ rollers and a 4.0 CHP motor, which obviously are needed to support the 40% incline potential at speeds up to 12 miles per hour. So, expect big and powerful, but expect it to take up space in your home gym.

In short: If you’re looking for a machine that can keep pace with streamed workouts as well as provide an entertaining experience, the Commercial X22i is the model for you. Its tech-ready features in combination with the chic HD screen will open the doors to a fully connected fitness experience.

If interactive streaming is your top priority but the X22i is out of your budget, you should consider the Horizon 7.8 AT. This is an exceptional treadmill for streaming classes. Just dock your tablet and use the treadmill with nearly any training app. It won’t auto-adjust your incline or speed within interactive programs like the X22i would, but if you have a smaller budget, it’s still packed with tons of features designed to support connected fitness.

See our in-depth review of the NordicTrack Commercial X22i.

Key Specs

4. Budget Friendly Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT

Where to buy Horizon 7.0 AT Check price at Horizon Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Horizon 7.0 AT $999 See details $1,100 See details $999 See details

Horizon have a fantastic range of budget-friendly treadmills. The recently updated Horizon 7.0 AT offers a good combination of features and affordability. For just $999, it offers a 3.0 CHP motor that supports a 15% incline, six built-in workout programming options, the ability to sync up with a wide variety of streaming workout apps, and a very respectable warranty. Even at this budget price, the 7.0 AT is covered with a lifetime frame and motor warranty as well as three years of coverage on parts, and one year on labor.

I took apart this treadmill and, in my in-depth review, covered many of the features of this treadmill.

I assembled the Horizon 7.0 AT following the video instructions from Horizon below. It’s pretty straight forward and easy to setup.

A big selling feature on the 7.0 AT is the rapid adjustment speeds of its incline motors and belt motor. The AT series has been tested against the competition and consistently has proven capable of faster adjustments on the fly. Rather than repeatedly pressing buttons to make these changes, a pair of roller controls are placed by the heart rate monitor grips. This is fantastic for those who want to do interval training on their treadmill. As a final bonus, the 7.0 AT’s can also accommodate taller runners due to its 60-inch long running belt.

Also, it’s easy to fold, which is nice when you are working out alone. Some treadmills are so heavy you cannot do it – this is not one of them.

In short: a good treadmill for a good price. Easy to assemble, easy to use, and easy to fold. I found it to be an all around good treadmill for your home gym.

See our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT.

Key Specs

5. Best for Walkers: Sole F63

Where to buy a Sole F63 Check price at Sole Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy a Sole F63 $1,199 See details $1,500 See details $1,199 See details (SALE: $999)

If you want a high-quality walking treadmill under $1,500, with a competitive warranty, the Sole F63 is a solid choice.

At just $1,199, the Sole F63 offers commercial-grade treadmill components such as advanced deck cushioning, 2.5″ track rollers and a heavy-duty motor (with heavy-duty flywheels). It’s all about high-quality foundations on the Sole F63. You won’t find any flashy high-tech extras on the F63, but you are guaranteed durability, quality, and enough workout programming and stats tracking capabilities to keep you motivated.

Other highlights include: a 3.0 CHP motor that supports up to 15% incline; a roomy 60″ running surface; wireless heart-rate monitoring capability; and 10 training programs. The 6.5″ LCD works with Sole’s Fitness app for stats tracking and data sharing. Its competitive warranty offers lifetime coverage on the frame and motor; three years on the parts, deck, and electronics; and one year on labor.

I followed the Sole F63 assembly video when putting together this treadmill. It was straight forward to do. As with most treadmills, you may want a second person to help hold things; I did.

One negative of the F63 that I found in my testing, was that I had to lubricate it far more than other treadmills. This is because of the 1-ply belt. Sole has instructions on how to lubricate it, but even in my first 100 miles on this deck, I ended up having to lubricate it once.

In short: A good quality treadmill. It’s entry level for Sole and doesn’t feel as rugged as the other Sole treadmills, but if you can snag it on sale on Presidents’ Day or Boxing Day, it can make a good addition to your home gym.

The F63 continues to be one of Sole’s most popular treadmills, and we aren’t surprised. At just $1,199 with a competitive warranty, it’s the perfect treadmill choice for walkers.

See our detailed review of the Sole F63.

Key Specs

6. Best Folding Treadmill: ProForm Pro 2000

Where to buy a ProForm Pro 2000 Check price at ProForm Check price at Amazon Where to buy a ProForm Pro 2000 $1,599 See details $1,499 See details

Space can be a deal breaker when purchasing a home treadmill. The last thing you want is to have the product delivered only to find it’s not going to literally be a bad fit. While a folding treadmill can sometimes be a sign of low durability, the ProForm Pro 2000 has excellent build quality. Its 3.25 HP motor, 300 lb. weight capacity, and 1.9-inch rear belt Precision-Balanced rollers are all good indicators it’ll stand the test of time.

I’m a pretty tall runner, and this treadmill fit me well. This deck is 60 inches long and 20 inches, which is larger than most treadmills.

I assembled this and found it easy to do. We turned it into a video of our own, showing you how we assembled this video:

For less than $2,000, you gain access to iFit programming, giving you the power to engage in professionally-led workouts that can target exercise geared toward your unique fitness goals. Since the full-color HD touchscreen tilts and pivots, you can take fitness to new levels by engaging in workouts both on and off the machine. Key features of note on the ProForm Pro 2000 include -3 to 12% incline, spacious 20″ x 60″ running deck, and 2-inch Bluetooth speakers. A great option for heart rate training, remote control allows for tech to take the stress out of adjusting speed and incline based on your beats per minute at any given time. There’s a lot to enjoy with this top-notch treadmill without taking up much

The ProForm Smart Pro 2000 folds up with a simple lift.
“Photo by: Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

In short: If you’re a tall runner or walker, or want some of the features of a $3000 treadmill for much less money, the Proform Pro 2000 is a good option for you. Try and pick it up on a sale.

You can read the manufacturer’s page on the Proform Pro 2000 for their own information on the treadmill.

See our detailed review of the ProForm Pro 2000.

Key Specs

7. Best Treadmill for Marathon Training: Sole TT8

Where to buy a Sole TT8 Check price at Sole Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy a Sole TT8 $2,899 See details $2,399 See details $2,499 See details

Looking for a treadmill that can handle intense marathon training? The Sole TT8 is a solid bet. Its extra-wide 22″ by 60″ track will let you run freely without constantly focusing on your position on the treadmill.

I’ve done marathon training in my fitness career, and this treadmill was a great training deck for me. I’m tall and I have a large stride, and the deck allowed me to run without thinking about where I was running. This was a huge advantage. I find with some treadmills I am focused on the deck to make sure I don’t over or under step.

Highlights that enhance your marathon training experience include: a powerful 4.0 HP motor; an incline range of -6% to 15% to simulate downhill and uphill running; advanced deck cushioning; and convenient incline adjustments on the hand rests as to not disrupt your running stride. There’s also a high-quality 2-ply belt and 3″ rollers, both of which contribute to years of trouble-free performance.

I assembled the Sole TT8 following Sole’s written instructions. They did not have a video to follow, but I found the steps straight forward.

And as you’ll need to monitor your progress, the TT8 works with the Sole Fitness app to track all your stats interactively. You can push your data to your favorite fitness apps like FitBit or Apple Health, so all your workout history is in one location. This in combination with the wireless heart-rate monitoring capability means you can stay on top of all your essential stats as you work towards the marathon.

In short: If you’re a hard core marathon trainer, this is the treadmill for you. You will not be disappointed by it, but be prepared to pay for a treadmill of this size.

As well as 9 preset workout programs, entertainment extras include an integrated tablet holder, Bluetooth audio speakers, and a USB charging port.

See our detailed review of the Sole TT8.

Key Specs

8. Best Treadmill Desk – LifeSpan TR1200-DT5

Where to buy a LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Check price at LifeSpan Check price at Amazon Where to buy a LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 $1,599 See details $1,599 See details

Our favorite treadmill desk currently on the market is the LifeSpan TR1200-DT5. It fuses a sound-absorbing 20″ x 50″ walking area with an adjustable-height desktop (from 33.5″ to 52.5″) so you can find a comfortable stride. If you’re between 4’10” and 6’8″ tall, this machine is a perfect solution to avoid a sedentary work style.

I write about my fitness on TreadmillReviews, and I do some of that from a treadmill desk. This treadmill desk was great to do that on. My laptop sat comfortably on the deck and it was comfortable when walking.

You can customize the look to go with your office too; there are various desktop and frame colors to choose from. You can also choose between a 38″ or 48″ desktop width, depending on how much room you prefer when working.

The updated treadmill desk features a console which delivers all your essential workout feedback, including steps, distance, walking time, calories and speed. What’s more, the integrated Bluetooth will let you save the results of your walking workout and track your progress.

I assembled the treadmill and one of our other editors put together a video of the assembly. It was relatively easy to do solo.

The machine also offers lifetime protection on the frame, 3 years on the motor, 2 years on parts, and one year on labor. This is a good warranty for the $1,599 price tag. We’d be more than happy to welcome this desk treadmill into any home or commercial office.

See our detailed review of the LifeSpan TR1200-DT5.

Key Specs

9. Best Incline Trainer: NordicTrack X22i

Where to buy a NordicTrack X22i Check price at NordicTrack Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy a NordicTrack X22i $3,499 See details $3,499 See details $3,499 See details

The NordicTrack X22i gets another placement here as the best incline trainer of the moment. It combines an extremely impressive incline ability (up to 40%) with a good balance of value, performance, comfort and entertainment features.

Using this dramatic incline (and 6% decline) with the 22″ HD touchscreen delivers a motivating and immersive workout every time. It’s much like having a treadmill and stepper in one. Exploring your library of iFit programs –which you get free for a whole year–with this steep an incline allows for a truly diverse training experience. As with other NordicTrack machines, your iFit trainer can automatically adjust your incline and speed within workouts, pushing you to the limit as you progress.

As mentioned, the NordicTrack X32i has an even bigger screen (32″). For users that want a huge screen, this could be a better choice. But it is a whole thousand bucks extra. There are some other differences between the machines (such as slightly higher motor power on the X32i), but you will have basically the same experience on the X22i and save $1,000.

The powerful 4.0 CHP motor allows you to keep pace with speedy incline changes during an incline training routine. Like to keep on top of your workout stats? There’s a free iFit Bluetooth armband included for you to track your stats on-screen.

The Commercial X22i will bring your incline training to new heights (literally) while keeping you entertained and motivated for years to come.

See our in-depth review of the NordicTrack X22i.

Key Specs

10. Best Budget Incline Trainer – Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400

Where to buy a Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill Check price at Sunny Health and Fitness Check price at Amazon Where to buy a Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill $419 See details $360 See details

Looking to benefit from the targeted muscle recruitment offered by incline trainers without spending a fortune? The SF-T4400 treadmill by Sunny Health and Fitness is worth a look. For around $300, you can enjoy an incline of up to 5%. Unlike many treadmills under $500, the SF-T4400 includes nine workout programs to make it easier to strategize your fitness game plan.

This treadmill is very entry level. Expect basic, but this treadmill does have features that I found in larger, more expensive treadmills.

I followed the assembly video from Sunny health and Fitness. It was straight forward, and could be done alone without the help of a second person:

Keep in mind, you get what you pay for, and there are a few drawbacks. For starters, the incline is limited, and you won’t get to take advantage of steeper grades or decline training. Furthermore, the warranty only covers the frame for one year and 90 days for parts. However, if a small budget is your primary concern, you’ll still get all the basics including standard data tracking and handrail controls. The SF-T4400 features a top speed of 9 mph, and the 27? x 62? means this foldable machine will take up minimal space in your home gym.

See our in-depth review of the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400.

Key Specs

11. Best Treadmill Alternative – Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Where to buy Bowflex Max Trainer M6 Check price at Bowflex Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Bowflex Max Trainer M6 $1,299 See details $1,299 See details

Whether seeking a low-impact workout, or just want to diversify the options in your training routine, shopping for a treadmill alternative is a smart move. Our favorite model to fill that niche is the Bowflex Max Trainer M6. Under the feet of a user, the machine can become stair stepper, elliptical trainer, and low-impact treadmill all at once.

The Max Trainer M6 moves with a fluid, protecting your joints as you operate. Highlights include: a magnetic media rack for smartphone or tablet; 16 levels of resistance (digitally controlled); and dynamic, multi-grip handles.

As for user-assistance, the Max Trainer features: a unique burn rate display; a 2-month free membership with the Bowflex JRNY app which contains a library of interactive workouts; and a USB charging port. Meanwhile, the Bluetooth-compatible unit also features heart-rate sensors in the handle grips for instant cardio feedback.

I assembled this Max Trainer following BowFlex’s assembly video. It was simple to follow, so you shouldn’t have issues doing this yourself.

In short: The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is a great choice for low-impact cardio exercise and introductory cross training at home. A versatile machine, it offers something for everyone in the home gym. I found it easy to use, and it worked different muscles when I wanted to vary my workouts.

See our in-depth review of the Bowflex Max Trainer M6.

Key Specs

Learn more about what to look for when shopping for a new treadmill below.

Essential Treadmill Features

Just started your fitness journey? These days, treadmill companies are making their machines more user-friendly and interactive than ever, so it’s easy to kickstart your fitness routine and stay motivated to exercise. Designers are achieving this by adding features like built-in speakers so you can stream music, and interactive training programs that make it feel like you’re exercising in different landscapes around the world. With features such as these, you’ll never be able to use boredom as an excuse to avoid exercise again.

Novelty features aside, when selecting a treadmill it’s important to consider the machine’s key physical features. These include horsepower, belt thickness and belt size; these aspects will dramatically impact how enjoyable your workout feels.

To help make your treadmill search a little easier, here’s our complete treadmill features guide with expert tips, tricks, and advice to guide your research.

Part I: Set Your Basic Standards

Let’s begin by examining the core treadmill necessities for a satisfying workout session. First, you’ll want to ensure the treadmill is motorized (unless you’re seeking a very basic, non-motorized unit of course). You will then want to look for three key features: the belt size, the motor’s capabilities, and whether or not it’s a folding model.

To Fold Or Not To Fold?

Is your home gym small? Folding capabilities in a treadmill save space and can make your treadmill more portable. Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Many first-time treadmill buyers wonder whether a folding treadmill is a wise investment. In theory, the compact size seems enticing. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that if you select a folding model you will sacrifice some features along the way.

A typical treadmill sold for home use measures roughly seven feet long and three feet wide. If you have the space for a machine of that size, then go for it. If not, folding models are an ideal alternative.

However, just because a treadmill is foldable doesn’t necessarily mean that it is easily movable. Even though they have wheels, the machines are still extremely heavy and difficult to move. So once your unit is in place, you’ll want to fold it up and leave it there. Sure, moving a treadmill can feel like a workout, but that’s not why you bought the machine, is it?

The good news is, if you’re in the market for a folding treadmill, you can find them in a variety of price ranges. In the past, folding treadmills were either cheaply made or extremely expensive, without a middle ground. These days there are more mid-range foldable treadmills that are suitable for most homes.

Sole Fitness is the top rated brand for this design, and their best-selling model is the F80. You can find it for around $1500 and it’ll give you fantastic horsepower, speed, track size, and performance for your buck.

If you want to compare some more options, see our chart of the top folding treadmills for other space-saving models from Sole, NordicTrack and other leading brands.

Treadmill Workout Belts

The next thing to take into account is the treadmill belt. Each treadmill has a different width and length of belt that impacts how you’ll feel on the machine. Belt thickness can determine how much noise the treadmill emits during use, and how often the belt will require maintenance work. Note that if the belt is very thin, it will wear down easily, so this is something to keep in mind when purchasing.

Width: The most common width of a treadmill belt is set to 20 inches wide, so anything that is wider than that is considered extra large. A wider belt is good for larger users or for those who tend to feel trapped in during their sessions. Extra wide belts are 22 inches wide; that’s the widest you’ll see in the industry.

Length: Likewise, length also comes into play. For best results, you’ll want to choose a treadmill belt that’s longer if you plan to do a lot of running or sprints as that ensures that your stride length will be higher.

The normal length for walking and jogging treadmills is 55 inches, while treadmills designed for running purposes can range up to 60 inches in length. Do keep in mind that your own height is also a factor. If you are over 6 feet tall but plan to walk on your treadmill, you may be better off simply going with a 60 inch belt length for comfort. Tall runners on the other hand will want to seek out treadmills with a longer stride length (up to 62 or 63 inches).

Thickness: If you are purchasing a treadmill with a belt thickness of just one-ply, it may stretch or rip during running. For walking, that thickness may be fine, but more vigorous workouts require a belt thickness of two-ply or more. This type of belt can go for many, many miles without replacement. Most people also find that the thicker the belt, the quieter the treadmill (even as you approach higher speeds).

Maintenance: Belt thickness also determines how much maintenance your treadmill requires. Some belts only require occasional lubricating or waxing and are very easy to uphold. Other belts require far more regular maintenance. This is time and energy that most owners don’t expect, and can be a real pain in the long term. Generally speaking, the thicker the belt, the less maintenance is required.

Home Treadmill Motors

Another important consideration in home treadmill ownership is the motor. The motor is a huge component of what makes a treadmill run, so you don’t want to cut corners here. If you do, the treadmill won’t run properly for very long.

The main motor in any treadmill helps to push the belt forward. So the faster you plan to run on that treadmill and the heavier your body weighs, the more power you’ll need. This is a factor that too many people overlook. A motor running near its full capacity at all times will begin to fatigue and sputter out faster than a motor that has plenty of power to spare.

Horsepower: The first thing to look for in a treadmill motor is the horsepower. Usually you’ll see this referred to as continuous horsepower (CHP) rather than plain horsepower. This indicates how much total power that treadmill can put out over the entire time that you are exercising. HP only indicates how much power the machine generates in an instant, which is no good if you plan to exercise for an hour at a time.

Horsepower is one of the factors that greatly influences cost, so keep that in mind when you are doing price comparisons. It’s not something that you’ll want to cheap out on, so do try to look for the highest possible horsepower within your budget.

Typically you’ll see today’s treadmill models coming in with a CHP rating of 2.25 to 4.25. The higher the CHP, the more you can do with the treadmill.

For those who weigh 200 lbs. or less, you’ll generally want:

• At least 2.0 CHP for walking
• At least 2.5 CHP for jogging
• At least 3.0 CHP for running

If you are training for a marathon or you have two or more people in the family who plan to use the treadmill on a daily basis, opt for 4.0 CHP.

Also keep in mind that if you are a heavier individual weighing over 200 pounds, you’ll want to add an additional half rating of CHP to give the treadmill a bit more of a push.

Warranty: Most home treadmill warranties include a lifetime motor warranty. Obviously, you won’t keep your cardio trainer for the next 80 years, but do insist on a lifetime warranty if you can afford it. When a treadmill lacks this guarantee, it’s an indication of poor construction and the machine will breakdown. You’ll lose everything you saved purchasing the treadmill on maintenance.

Part II: Don’t Be Shocked! Cushion & Tilt Your Run

It’s no secret that jogging and running are high impact activities that are hard on the joints. If you want a very low impact exercise machine, you’d be better off reading an elliptical guide right now instead.

Walking makes less of an impact, but it’s still a higher impact activity than swimming, cycling, or elliptical training. So paying attention to the shock absorption qualities of your treadmill is important.

You want to ensure that whatever treadmill you are considering offers protection for your joints, tendons, and ligaments. Otherwise, your treadmill will quickly become just another piece of furniture. Think of it this way: you are far better off spending $2000 on a treadmill that you use 200 days of the year than you are spending $1500 on a treadmill that you use only 50 times because it hurts your joints and causes injury. It’s always worth spending a bit more to get a model that is more comfortable to use in both the short and long term.

When a treadmill is well made, it’s often able to nearly completely deflect the shock that you experience while using it, changing your running game forever.

About Treadmill Cushioning

You’ve heard the saying before that for every action, there’s an opposite reaction; we all learned this back in grade school. Whenever your feet are hitting the deck of the treadmill, forces are acting upwards and exerting pressure on your joints. Numerous peer reviewed studies, such as this in the Journal of Gait & Posture (1), affirm that a cushioning system on your treadmill will significantly decrease the peak plantar force when you run.

You might think that this force equates to your body weight, but you would be wrong. The forces you feel coming back up at you are magnified by gravity pushing forces upwards as you land with each step. This is why jogging has more impact than walking. With walking, one foot is always on the ground. When running, your feet completely clear the ground for a brief moment.

Treadmills that offer strong shock absorption are usually much quieter as well; an added benefit to keep in mind.

The shock absorption for your treadmill consists of three parts:

• The belt, which you can see laying flat against the top.
• The deck, which is a wood or wood-like synthetic material laying beneath the belt. Running on this alone would be very hard on your joints.
• The steel frame with shock absorbers, which line the deck and help it move in and out as it adapts and cushions your body weight. Think of these shock absorbers like springs. As the deck pushes down on them, they give only to eventually push back up and provide cushioning.

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind:

• If you are a serious road runner, you may want to deactivate your cushioning system so that it feels more like you are actually running on flat ground. NordicTrack and ProForm make this possible by allowing users to turn the shock absorption on and off.
• Some treadmills come with what’s referred to as ‘variable cushioning’, which is firmest at the push-off zone and softest where you land at the top. This is an advanced system and is only available on higher specification treadmills.
• Of all the treadmill companies, Sole tends to offer the best overall cushioning support system for their price range. The impact on joints can be reduced by up to 40% on Sole treadmills when compared to the impact that you’d get running outdoors. Most treadmills in this price range only deflect about 30% of the total impact you’ll experience.
• If you go with a high-end brand such as Landice, you’ll get cushioning that is rated as five times softer than grass. This will make your joints feel like you are running on a cloud. Landice’s top-of-the-line treadmill offers cushioning that is seven times softer than grass, which will make your joints feel like you are running on a cloud in marshmallow shoes. For those with chronic joint pain, this is the ideal choice.

About Treadmill Incline

Incline and decline training allows for more recruitment of lower-body muscles to bolster strength and torch more calories. Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Another factor to take into account is the incline abilities of a treadmill. This feature gives you another element to add to your workout routine, and also ensures that you are fully challenging your body at all times.

The tilt that comes along with incline helps reduce the impact of exercise on your joints. When using a proper incline, you’ll also receive other benefits such as burning more calories and strengthening your muscles. Walking or jogging uphill is always more strenuous than walking or jogging on flat ground.

Here’s what you need to know about incline.

• Manual or electric? You can find inclines in both styles but manual is very hard to come by these days. If incline is manual, you’ll have to get off the treadmill and bend down to adjust the deck. If it’s electronic, you simply press a button and the treadmill inclines. This type of incline, often referred to as power incline, is also important for pre-programmed workout options.
• Higher end treadmills now offer augmented reality workouts which use apps such as iFit or Google Maps to formulate walking and running routes across various landscapes and terrains. As you explore the locations on a tablet or console, your treadmill incline changes in real time, simulating changes in the topography you are discovering. Imagine feeling like you’re running through Rome or Tokyo without ever leaving your basement! This feature is available on machines from both NordicTrack and ProForm.
• Usually you’ll find treadmill inclines that range from 10-20%, with price being the biggest factor determining how high they go. The cheaper treadmills will typically only offer about 10% incline, while more expensive ones will go up to 20%. Most people find that they are satisfied with an incline that tops out at 15%. However if you are someone who is in serious training, having that additional 5% incline can make a big difference on your performance abilities. You might also want to look at incline trainers, which are treadmill hybrid machines that can tilt up to 40%. These machines are like a cross between a treadmill and a stepper and are ideal for burning high amounts of calories.
• Higher inclines should be considered by anyone who can’t run, and instead wants to exercise through walking. Walking on a high incline can burn just as many calories (if not more) than running.
• Some treadmills that have incline capacities also have decline capacities, and can move into a downhill slant. Do keep in mind though that this can be even harder on the joints than flat walking or running and should be used with care.

Part III: Listen To Your Heart… Wirelessly

With visions of weight loss and gorgeous muscle tone, people forget that treadmills are cardio trainers. Most of these machines have heart rate monitors, and using the data from these can help maximize your progress. You can ensure that your effort isn’t too low and also that you don’t work too intensely and risk injury or burnout.

About Heart Rate Zones

To benefit from a monitor, you need to know your heart rate zones. Each zone covers a certain percentage of your maximum theoretical heart rate. You’ll be aiming to train within a specific zone. Here are the zones commonly recognized in health and fitness.

Zone 1: 60% to 70% – This zone is used for warm-ups and cool-downs. It could also be used for the majority of your workout if you’re just starting to get into shape.

Zone 2: 71% to 80% – This zone is most common for treadmill training. In this zone, you can hold a conversation without gasping for breath. Exercising in this zone can help your body use oxygen more efficiently.

Zone 3: 81% to 93% – Exercise in this zone is intense. You can say short sentences but holding a normal conversation isn’t an option.

Zone 4: 94% and Up – The top heart rate zone is of course for your hardest effort, like when a racer speeds to the finish line. As for the “talk test,” you might be able to utter a few words at a time.

How to Calculate Heart Rate Zones

What are your heart rate zones exactly? The conventional formula is to start with 220, then subtract your age. For example, if you are 40 years old, then 180 beats per minute is your theoretical maximum heart rate. From here you can calculate the percentages noted above.

This doesn’t reflect individual differences in resting heart rate though, so we suggest the Karvonen formula. For this, you start off with the same 220 minus your age. Then subtract your resting heart rate. The resulting number is your heart rate reserve. Multiply that number by the percentage at which you want to train to get your target beats per minute.

Types of Treadmill Heart Rate Monitors

Heart rate monitoring using iFit’s wireless heart rate monitor can allow for some treadmills to automatically adjust to your biometrics. Oleksandr Kosheliev / TreadmilReviews.net

Heart rate can be measured with touch sensors or wirelessly. Wireless monitoring is significantly more accurate.

These days, most treadmills are equipped with touch sensors, regardless of the price. Typically these sensors are built into the handlebars. On cheap treadmills, these heart rate monitors tend to be inaccurate and not so useful. With better models, you can have more confidence in the data, and use it to your advantage.

Wireless heart rate monitoring is the most accurate. It isn’t compromised by a sweaty grip and the reading is accurate whether you’re standing still or moving at top speed. Mid-quality and high-quality treadmills tend to provide touch sensors. Plus they work with wireless chest straps by Bluetooth. Sometimes the cardio monitoring strap is included with purchase.

5 Preparation Tips When Treadmill Shopping

The very reason sites like TreadmillReviews.net exist is because there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution. A product that ticks all the boxes for one may be a terrible choice for someone else. Factors ranging from budget and training goals to space, programming options, user weight, frequency of use, and more will be key in making the right choice.

As you shop, a key pointer to keep in mind is that, in most cases, you get what you pay for. Investing less can mean lower quality and/or fewer high-tech features. What’s this mean for you? You have to read between the lines. For example, if you aren’t interested in large touchscreens, you can spend less on tech and more on quality for the price. Here are a few traps to avoid as you shop for your next treadmill:

• Know your space, and this includes height. Here’s a formula we use to calculate the ceiling height you’ll need:

  Height of tallest user + Deck height + 3-5 inches (walking vs. running) < Ceiling height

• Know your goals. More aggressive running is better supported by a motor of at least 3.0 CHP and a roomy deck. On the other hand, if you only plan to use for light jogging and/or walking, you can save money on something with a less powerful motor and smaller belt. Our helpful treadmill finder tool can help narrow down your options based on factors unique to your expected usage.
• Do your homework. Review sites like ours are here to help you understand your options, and our unbiased review process is designed to give you the good, the bad, and the ugly.
• Establish your priorities. Pinpointing buying factors of highest importance will provide the best starting point in your shopping journey, and our comprehensive treadmill buying guide can help you make these determinations.
• Balance your budget. When you know what you need in a treadmill by following the tips above, look for those features. Don’t pay more for products that include components you don’t need.

More Treadmill Choices to Consider

References:

1. Effects of Treadmill Cushion and Running Speed on Plantar Force and Metabolic Energy Consumption in Running. Huijuan Shi, Hanjun Li, Hui Liu, Bing Yu. Journal of Gait & Posture. Volume 69, March 2019, 79-84. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2019.01.024

Recent Updates

June 30, 2021: Numerous specs have been updated for accuracy and to reflect changes made for 2021 models.

October 28, 2022- Added awards for Best Budget Incline Treadmill. Updated Best Compact Treadmill award. Added photos from personal use.

May 30, 2023: Updated specs and pricing.