A treadmill is a great way to stay active without having to go outside. You can walk, run, or climb while staying in the comfort of your own home, something that many find important. If you are unsure what a treadmill is, it’s a machine that has a belt looped around the base, where a motor continually pulls the belt at a chosen speed, making the person walk or run to keep up.
Treadmills are a good choice whether you are looking to run short sprints, or long miles. It’s also possible to set the incline and speed to simulate hills which strengthens the glutes, thighs, and calves. A treadmill is also a great workout even when walking at an average pace because the activity level still improves cardiovascular health more so than sitting down.
If there’s one versatile machine crucial for the best gym, it’s a treadmill. Benefits include weight loss, muscle strengthening, and improved heart health. Walking on a treadmill for as little as 30 minutes daily reduces countless health risks, and people can maintain that schedule regardless of the outside weather.
- NordicTrack Commercial X22i (Best Overall)
- Nordic Track X14i (Best Budget Choice)
- Sole F63 (Best Beginner Option)
1. NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill
The NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill is an elite quality incline treadmill. It’s sturdy and appropriate for running, hiking, jogging, and more which makes it a great option for the gym. This treadmill has a cushioned deck to absorb impact and a strong 4.0 HP motor that generates power but remains quiet.
NordicTrack offers iFit programs, virtual trails, and virtual classes to keep workouts interesting and includes a 1-month free family trial. These perks are just some of the benefits that this top contender has to offer.
The NordicTrack Commercial X22i measures 70” x 39” x 72.5” with a deck measurement of 22” x 60” and supports a maximum weight of 300 pounds. It reaches a top speed of 12 MPH and has an incline range of -6% to 40%. It costs $3,499 from the manufacturer.
Pros
- 22” HD touchscreen
- Two fans for increased airflow
- Digitally enhanced speakers
- Quick processing; only needs 22 seconds to incline from 0 to 40
- Engaging iFit programs
- Several storage spaces
Cons
- Does not fold
- Measures large and is best for ceilings over 8 feet
- No specific holder for a tablet or smart device
The NordicTrack Commercial X22i averages 5-star reviews and is a good choice for runners looking for a low-impact hike on an incline machine or a quality workout on a sturdy, powerful machine.
2. NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill
The next contender of the list of best gym treadmills is the NordicTrack EXP 14i which is the best budget option. Depending on how heavily you rely on a treadmill, the 14i model is a great pick if you are someone that runs mostly outside but plans on using a treadmill only when required.
The NordicTrack EXP 14i treadmill features workouts on its 14” HD display for running, walking, hiking, and strength training. This quick setup and easy lift treadmill also has an ActivePulse heart rate monitor, which allows users to track their statistics and see progress. The AutoAdjust feature assesses the runner’s pace and suggests increases in speed or incline.
The NordicTrack EXP 14i treadmill is 79.9” x 35” x 59.25” with a weight capacity of 300 pounds. It reaches speeds of 12 MPH with incline options ranging from -3% to 12%. This treadmill costs $1,599 from the manufacturer and is an optimal option if you choose to skip the Sole treadmills.
Pros
- Large, 14” HD touch screen with iFit access
- Quiet motor
- Easily folds and has wheels for transporting and storing
- Cushioning offers shock absorption
Cons
- 300-pound weight limit is not ideal for all treadmill users
- Low fan position is not helpful for tall runners
The NordicTrack EXP 14i treadmill has a 4.5-star rating and is recommended for all fitness abilities, whether just beginning or looking for a quality treadmill for workouts or warmups.
3. Sole F63 Treadmill
The Sole F63 Treadmill is an entry-level treadmill for beginning runners. The Sole F63 doesn’t have a lot of special features but offers anything beginners would want in a peice of exercise equipment. This includes Bluetooth compatibility, a 6.5” LCD display with large numbers, and no need for a WiFi connection or a monthly exercise subscription.
The Sole F63 measures 82” x 35” x 66” with a deck measuring 20” x 60” and a weight limit of 325 pounds. It can reach speeds of 12 MPH, reaches an incline of 15%, and costs $999. If you find yourself with the budget, it is recommended to go with the Sole F85 for active athletes, and the Sole ST90 for those that want the best overall product that will last many years to come.
Pros
- Lightweight treadmill capable of sustaining 325 pounds of weight
- Lifetime warranty for the motor and frame
- Includes chest strap for heart rate monitoring
- 3.0 HP motor
- Easily folds up and rolls for storage
- Cushioned deck
Cons
- Not many technological features
The Sole F63 Treadmill has a 4.5-star average rating and is a good choice for those looking for a starter treadmill without feeling overwhelmed with customizations. As mentioned, upgrade to the Sole ST90 or switch to a NordicTrack model before considering any other treadmills on this list.
4. BOWFLEX Treadmill 22
The BOWFLEX Treadmill 22 is a large, durable treadmill with a 22” touch screen with preloaded workouts that include fat burn workouts, speed and include programs, and location videos of national parks to help give that outdoor feeling.
The BOWFLEX Treadmill 22 measures 85” x 39.6” x 70” with a large deck measuring 22” wide and 60” long with a weight capacity of 400 pounds. The BOWFLEX can reach speeds of 12 MPH and offers inclines from -5% to 20%. This treadmill costs $2,499 from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Pre-programmed workouts
- Built-in fan
- One year free subscription to fitness platform JRNY
- Includes heart rate armband that works with Bluetooth
- Cup Holders and storage trays
- Easy folding system
Cons
- Minimum cushioning
- Adjusting workouts and pace can be challenging
The BOWFLEX Treadmill 22 holds nearly five-star reviews and is recommended for users of all sizes looking for variety in their exercise routine.
5. WESLO Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill
The WESLO Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill is one of the most budget-friendly compact treadmills on the list. It has an average running belt, making it a good choice for walking and light jogging, and it has a two-point incline using adjustable feet on the base.
The WESLO Cadence measures 84.5” x 29” x 55.5” with a 16” wide and 50” long deck and a weight capacity of 275 pounds. It reaches speeds of 12 MPH and has a shelf to hold a tablet or device during use. Since it only costs $298 from Walmart, this WESLO option is best for runners on a budget.
Pros
- LCD display
- Measures 29” wide and 60” tall when folded
- Quiet, 2.25 HP motor
Cons
- Not much cushioning
- 275-pound weight capacity limits user size
The WESLO Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill has a 4-star rating and is recommended for runners with limited space looking for a basic, no-frills treadmill that gets the job done.
6. Sunny Health and Fitness WalkStation Slim Treadmill
The Sunny Health and Fitness WalkStation Slim Treadmill is an affordable option for people who don’t have much space for a home gym. It also functions as an under-desk treadmill and does not have handles, so it only takes up space with the base and belt.
The Sunny Health and Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill measures 50” x 21.5” x 6.5” with a belt measuring 39” long and 14” wide and can handle up to 220 pounds of weight. It reaches 3.75 MPH with no incline, as it’s best used beneath a desk. Walmart sells this treadmill for $305, making it a great choice for people who want to add some activity to their workday without breaking their budgets.
Pros
- Light-weight at 55 pounds
- Power-saving technology turns the treadmill off after ten minutes of no use to save the battery life
- Good for use under the desk at work or at home while watching TV
- Shock absorption cushioning
- Wheels to transport
Cons
- The maximum weight for users is 220 pounds
The Sunny Health and Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill has a 3.75-star average rating and is a good choice for those without much workout space and looking to stay active while working at a desk.
7. Echelon Stride Treadmill
The Echelon Stride Treadmill has an auto-folding feature that stores flat, making it easier than ever to store workout equipment. Even without the folding capability, this treadmill is light and compact. The best feature is the included access to the Echelon United, which lets runners choose various workouts to get the most out of the treadmill.
The treadmill is 69.3” x 31” x 49.2” with a track measuring 55” by 20” and a weight capacity of 300 pounds. It reaches speeds of 12 MPH and costs $1,300.
Pros
- 12% incline
- Quiet motor
- Uses the Echelon United app
Cons
- No screen; buttons are set into the console to display speed, incline, etc.
- Not large enough or strong enough for powerful runners
- 1.75 HP motor makes it best for walking
The Echelon Stride treadmill has a 4.5-star rating and is a good choice for runners who want to invest in durable equipment and still have the option to store it out of the way when not in use.
8. Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill is a compact, affordable option that helps beginning runners build endurance. For such a light treadmill, it offers an incline of 5%, which is a great starting place for those wanting to strengthen muscles with one of the nine built-in programs.
The Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill measures 65” x 28” x 12” with a deck measuring 15¾ x 49” and supports weights under 220 pounds. It reaches speeds up to 9 MPH and costs around $400, making it a budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Wheels for transportation
- Pulse sensors
- 3 levels of incline
- Deck tread features shock absorbers
Cons
- Incline must be set manually
- Small belt not ideal for larger users
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 treadmill has a 4.5-star average rating and is a good choice for runners looking for a sturdy, budget-friendly, and entry-level treadmill.
9. ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
The ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill has a 22” touchscreen that allows runners to configure custom settings or try virtual workouts via the iFit interactive content. This treadmill features a sturdy steel frame that easily folds up and built-in wheels for easy moving.
The ProForm Pro 9000 measures 77.3” x 59.6” x 35.3” with a cushioned deck that measures 20” wide and 60” long and withstands a weight limit of 300 pounds. It can reach speeds of 12 MPH and has an incline range of -3% to 12%. It costs $2,299 from the manufacturer and includes a ten-year warranty.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 22” HD touchscreen
- Quick touch controls for speed and incline
- Console fan
- Easy to use
- One month iFit subscription included with purchase
Cons
- Weight capacity is not ideal for larger users
The ProForm Pro 9000 has a 4¾-star average rating and is a good choice for runners and hikers who want a durable treadmill with plenty of advanced features.
10. Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill
The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill is a budget-friendly option with basic functions suitable for most walkers, joggers, and runners. Its speeds and incline are standard, though runners can link their favorite workout apps to the small LCD screen. This treadmill also has preloaded workouts to target heart rate, distance, fat burn, and more.
The Horizon 7.0 measures 76.5” x 36” x 59” with a deck measurement of 60” long and 20” wide and a weight limit of 325 pounds. It can reach speeds of 12 MPH and has an incline from 0% to 15%.
Pros
- Includes a charging port
- Folds up
- Includes a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor and a 3-year warranty on parts
- Quiet motor
- Display shows calories, distance, heart rate, and time
- Bluetooth compatible
Cons
- Small fan
The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill has a 4¼-star average rating and is a good choice for runners looking for a sturdy, reliable, and budget-friendly treadmill that doesn’t require a monthly subscription plan.
11. AssaultRunner Pro Treadmill
The AssaultRunner Pro Treadmill, also known as the AirRunner, is a curved, manual treadmill that is controlled by the runner. Manual treadmills generally help users burn more calories and this one in particular is good for 150,000 miles of running without needing to change the belt. The treadmill’s console is battery-powered, comes preloaded with workout programs, and has Bluetooth compatibility.
The AssaultRunner Pro measures 70” x 33” x 64” with a deck measuring 17” wide by 62” long and a weight limit of 350 pounds. The Assault Runner manual treadmill costs around $3000.
Pros
- No electricity or power source needed
- Suitable for most runners
- Very little maintenance required
- Sturdy
- Display is LCD and shows calories, pace, heart rate, and distance
Cons
- No incline adjustment
- Manual treadmill running is not the same as motorized treadmill running
- No cup holders
The AssaultRunner Pro Treadmill has a 4.5-star rating and is a good choice for long-distance runners and sprinters who want to control the pace.
12. Life Fitness Run CX Treadmill
The Life Fitness Run CX Treadmill has a signature FlexDeck Shock Absorption System that makes people feel like they’re running in nature. This treadmill is Bluetooth compatible and can save up to four user profiles for personalized workouts and also includes a chest strap to monitor heart rate.
The Life Fitness Run CX measures 79.5” x 32” x 61” with a deck surface of 60” long by 22” wide and a weight capacity of 400 pounds. It can reach speeds of 12 MPH and has an incline ranging from 0% to 15%. It costs $3,179, so it’
Pros
- Reputable brand of commercial gym equipment since 1968
- No monthly subscription necessary
- Includes 15 preloaded workouts
- USB charging port included
- No internet connection needed
Cons
- No fan
The Life Fitness Run CX treadmill has a 4¼-star rating and is a good choice for larger runners who are serious about using a sturdy treadmill in their home gym with custom profiles for several users.
13. TrueForm Runner Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill
The TrueForm Runner Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill is another curved and manual-use treadmill that features customization options, such as tread color, paint color, and logo upgrades. The rubber track is more responsive than standard treadmill belts and encourages better posture and gait for runners.
The TrueForm Runner Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill measures 60” x 36” x 57” with a deck measuring 17” x 63” and a weight capacity of 400 pounds for a runner and 700 pounds for a walker. It has an unlimited speed limit since it relies on the runner’s pace. There’s no incline since it’s a curved treadmill, and it costs just over $6000.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- LCD display for speed, pace, time, and distance
- The user sets the pace, so the maximum speed is what the runner is capable of
- Upright handles for balance
- Lifetime warranty on frame
Cons
- Weighs a heavy 350 pounds
- Recommended for first-floor locations with carpet
The TrueForm Runner Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill has a 5-star rating and is a good choice for runners who are serious about their workouts and can afford this level of equipment.
14. Peloton Tread
The Peloton Tread is an interactive treadmill that includes virtual classes for workouts on a 24” HD touchscreen and has knobs to set speed and incline. Peloton Tread uses the Peloton subscription service, which costs $39 monthly.
The Peloton Tread measures 68” x 33” x 62” with a 59” by 20” deck and a weight limit of 300 pounds. It can reach speeds of 12.5 MPH, reaches an incline of 12.5%, and costs $3,495.
Pros
- Monthly subscription offers bootcamp classes, outdoor routes, live classes, and on-demand classes
- Includes a USB charging port
- Bluetooth connectivity for watches and heart rate monitors
- One-touch button features to start and stop the treadmill
Cons
- Does not fold up
- No fan
- No pre-loaded workouts, so you can’t access any content without the monthly subscription
The Peloton Tread has an average 5-star rating and is a good choice for runners who want to make an investment on their health and enjoy the accountability of live classes.
15. Xterra Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill
The Xterra Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill has a durable steel frame to provide a thorough workout and folds to save space. Runners can set their own speed and incline or use one of 30 built-in settings to automate the workout.
The Xterra Fitness TRX3500 measures 77.2” x 35.5” x 56.1” with a deck measuring 20” x 60” and a weight limit of 350 pounds. It can reach speeds of 12 MPH, has an incline of 12%, and costs $899.
Pros
- Folds for easy storage and includes wheels for transport
- Bluetooth compatible
- Deck cushioning
- Handlebar controls
- Lifetime warranty for frame and motor
Cons
- Small fan
- Not meant for heavy use
The Xterra Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill has a 4-star average rating and is a good choice for runners who want a decent treadmill but don’t have space for a full home gym.
What To Know Before Purchasing the Best Treadmill?
A treadmill is a major purchase for a gym, so it’s crucial to have all the information to ensure the equipment delivers the best workout. Before purchasing the best treadmill for your gym, consider the following to prevent buying the wrong product.
Large treadmills have more features and technical components but are bulky and take up space. The dimensions will matter for people with very little equipment storage space. In that case, folding or under-desk treadmills will deliver a quality workout while taking up less space.
The weight of the treadmill also impacts performance. If the runner weighs more than the treadmill, it will feel flimsy beneath their feet as they run. Light treadmills can also move around during the workout, making them unsafe and unstable. This type of movement can also cause the parts to wear out quickly.
Quality relates to performance, so budget is vital in treadmill purchases. Many runners buy treadmills for daily use, so it’s worth spending more for a quality product. A manufacturer warranty also goes a long way in proving that a treadmill is worth the investment.
Technology can be an amazing feature of treadmills. Many have LED display screens that show statistics like speed, distance run, incline angle, and calories burned. Others include programs with set speeds and incline to mimic an involved workout. The technology can increase the price, but it’s also worth the additional features.
Many treadmills require routine maintenance, especially if they see daily use. Knowing if a treadmill will require regular lubrication between the belt and deck can make a big difference in performance and maintenance. A premium treadmill will cost more but usually requires no maintenance to simplify ownership.
How should I use a Treadmill for the Gym?
Using a treadmill at the gym is a great way to start or end a workout. Walking on the treadmill for 30 to 60 minutes daily can provide a quality workout. The steps below provide guidelines for a treadmill gym workout.
- Wear comfortable walking or running shoes with arch support. Thick socks help prevent blisters while promoting comfort for the entire treadmill experience.
- Hydrate before a workout by drinking at least 16 ounces of water. Use the bathroom before starting the treadmill to prevent losing momentum.
- Start the treadmill at a slow walking pace as a warmup.
- After a five-minute warmup, increase the speed of the treadmill belt.
- Though treadmills have handles, arm swinging helps people keep their balance and burns more calories.
- Increase the speed or incline as necessary. Treadmills with pre-programmed workouts will automatically change the speed and incline according to the runner’s progress or time spent on the workout.
- For a custom workout, start with 20 to 30 minutes. The first 15 minutes burn carbs, and any additional time burns body fat. Pushing a workout longer by five minutes at a time will also build up endurance.
- During the last five minutes of the workout, turn the treadmill speed back down to a slow walking pace to cool down.
- Each subsequent workout should get at least five minutes longer. Increasing the speed and incline will also build endurance over time.
What are the Types of Treadmills?
There are many types of treadmills. Each delivers a unique workout and can include distinct features like pre-programmed workouts, touchscreens, inclines, speed controls, and curved belts. Below are some of the most popular types of treadmills.
- Folding Treadmills: A folding treadmill is an excellent option when gym space is at a premium. The runner can unfold the treadmill for a workout, then fold it back up and store it out of the way during the rest of the day.
- Manual Treadmills: Manual treadmills don’t use electricity. Instead of having a motor to pull the belt and help the runner keep pace, these treadmills depend on the person to power them. The runner will start moving, and the belt turns based on their pacing.
- Motorized Treadmills: Motorized treadmills are the most common option. This equipment uses electricity to move the belt at a set speed. The runner must match their pace to the belt to stay on track and get the best workout.
- Curved Treadmills: Curved treadmills are a version of manual treadmills that promote proper posture and gait. The curved foundation helps runners place their feet naturally, burning more calories and building more muscle strength than possible with a flat, motorized treadmill.
- Incline Treadmills: Incline treadmills help strengthen the glutes, thighs, and calves because the runner can set a steep angle for the incline. Standard treadmills often offer a slight incline, up to 15%, but incline treadmills typically angle up to 40%.
- Under-desk Treadmills: Under-desk treadmills are the most compact option, even compared to folding treadmills. This equipment has a low-profile treadmill belt without the tall handles typical of other treadmill types. People can put this treadmill beneath a standing desk to stay in motion all day and have a healthier work environment.
What is the best Folding Treadmill for the Gym?
The best folding treadmill is the Sole F63 Treadmill. Unfolded, it provides a large running belt that can incline up to 12%. Speed controls max out at 12 MPH, and runners can pull up a pre-programmed workout for set speeds and goals. There’s no touchscreen, but the folding size makes this option great for home gyms.
What is the Best Budget-friendly (Cheap) Treadmill for the Gym?
The Sole F63 is the best budget-friendly treadmill. Runners can easily choose one of 15 incline options while customizing the speed. There are preset buttons along with the ability to set the speed manually. This budget-friendly treadmill is an easy option to choose.
Buying a treadmill doesn’t need to break the bank or restrict other features. Start by finding a reputable brand and then search for the options that meet your needs.
What is the Best Curved Treadmill for the Gym?
The best-curved treadmill is the TRUEFORM Runner Curved Treadmill. It gives the runner the option to change the turf texture from the field, rubber, red or blue running track, and a barefoot running surface. The slight curve of the belt promotes a balanced gait for all runners, especially considering it can handle people weighing up to 500 pounds.
What is the Best Under-desk Treadmill for the Gym?
The best under-desk treadmill is the Sunny Health and Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill. It has a portable design that makes it easy to use during work hours or store out of the way at other times. Though it’s low-profile, there’s still a digital monitor to allow people to analyze statistics and keep track of progress.
What is the Best Incline Treadmill for the Gym?
The best incline treadmill is the Sole F85. It allows an incline ranging from -6% to 40%. There’s no need to stop and adjust the incline or speed because it has hands-free controls thanks to a built-in training program. A 15.6-inch smart HD touchscreen allows people to set their customizations and track progress.
What is the Best Manual Treadmill for the Gym?
A manual treadmill requires the runner to power the belt with the pacing. People who push themselves to reach and maintain a specific pace will appreciate how a manual treadmill holds them accountable.
The best manual treadmill is the AssaultRunner Pro. It can handle people up to 350 pounds and has a five-year warranty. The secure steel frame holds the treadmill in place regardless of the runner’s pace. It’s easy for the belt to move around the base and help deliver a quality workout.
Is using a treadmill good for warming up in the gym?
Yes, using a treadmill is a good way to warm up the muscles for a gym workout. People can choose the specific speed and incline of the treadmill to get the ideal pull on the muscles. It’s also a comfortable way to get started with gym workouts for newbies.
Is using a treadmill better before or after exercise?
Yes, using a treadmill before or after exercising is beneficial. People who want to build muscle strength should use the treadmill before exercising. This approach is a great way to warm up muscles and prime them for the upcoming workout. People who want to exercise first and spend time cooling down after can walk on a treadmill after exercising.
