There is a difference between a treadmill made for a gym and a living room. The main difference is versatility, weight, and bulkiness. A treadmill made for a living room is more portable than the one made for a gym.
When we said portable we don’t actually mean manual treadmills that are foldable and/or need human power to power up.
One of our writers owned a manual treadmill that can be folded and she used it ONLY ONCE. This is what she said: “It’s just isn’t worth the portability.”
We will talk more about manual treadmills and why they are not worth your purchase later on in this article. For now, let’s focus on how we find the best home treadmills.
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How We Find the Best Home Treadmills
Our research consists of 52 treadmills – 6 of which are manual. We picked the best 5 – the ones that we recommend here in this article.
Below are important points that help guide us through our process on picking the best:
- Absolute safety – Without the track moving back-and-forth or left-or-right or shacking so unnecessarily when heavy weight is applied.
- Reduced noise – We can’t possible recommend a running machine that sounds louder that your television at normal volume.
- Reliability and performance – We want to recommend something to our readers that goes way beyond the product warranty.
- Best price – We found a few treadmills that performed much better than the more expensive ones.
- Belt surface area – The surface area should feel more like running on the road instead of running on cheap rubber.
- Technology – We also take Wifi connection, compatibility with an MP3 player etc. health metrics display into account.
- Home-friendly – If it requires 4 people to carry on each side, I am sorry – it doesn’t make the cut.
Most Reliable Treadmill
Price when Reviewed: $1,745.60 – 4.3 stars Amazon rating
Pros:
- 5 CHP commercial motor
- 75” rollers
- Reversible deck that doubles the deck lifetime
- 60”x22” track with CushionFlex Whisper Deck that reduces impact up to 40%
- Built-in speakers and includes port for iPod and other MP3 players
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Integrated with Sole Fitness app which is compatible with iOS and Android to watch movies, read news, etc. (The app can also sync with various other fitness apps)
- Cooling fan included
- Tablet rack included
- Foldable
Cons:
- Limited workout variety (only 10 built-in programs) and no option to download new programs
- No decline option
- Rather slow speed changing mechanism – makes interval training somewhat difficult
At $2,499.99 (sale price $1,745.60), this treadmill’s biggest selling point is its large Cushion Flex Whisper Deck that is reversible so that the deck lifetime is doubled. Although the workout variety is limited, it should be sufficient for most runners, and users do not seem to be too unhappy with the slightly slow speed changing mechanism.
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Another Good Alternative (but slightly more expensive): Sole F85 Treadmill
Cheaper Alternative
Price when Reviewed: $999.00 – 4.1 stars on Amazon rating
Pros:
- 3.0 CHP commercial motor with 2.5” rollers
- 60”x20” track with FlexSelect cushioning that can be turned on for good joint protection, or off to simulate outdoor conditions
- Large variety (32) of built-in workout courses
- 5” backlit, full-colour LED console
- Built-in speakers and includes port for iPod and other MP3 players
- iFit enabled – allows users to download personalized workout programs, track their performance, compete in races with friends that are online, and even enjoy Google Maps running routes
- Foldable
Cons:
- No decline option
- Tablet holder is included but is not at eye level
- Only 3 years warranty on parts
- Bluetooth wireless heartrate monitor, but the strap is not included
This $1,999 treadmill (sale price $999) is a very high quality treadmill with all the right pros. The only real drawback is the wireless heartrate monitor strap that is not included.
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Good for Performance Training and Race Preparation ![]()
Price when Reviewed: $3,399.00 – 5 stars Amazon rating
Pros:
- Superior motor (4.0 CHP) and 3” rollers – very quiet, smooth operation
- 62”x22” supersized track with Ortho Flex Shock™ suspension system and a unique orthopaedic running belt for a reliable, comfortable workout that is easy on the joints
- Built-in speakers and includes port for iPod and other MP3 players
- Contact grip and wireless heart rate monitor with receiver included
- One-touch control buttons so that users can make changes easily
- Multi-speed cooling fan
Cons:
- Limited workout variety (only a total of 13 built-in programs)
- Not foldable
- Display is small (although dimensions are not disclosed)
- Completely lacking in entertainment options
- No web-enabled or Bluetooth-enabled console
This treadmill ($3,399) is of extremely high quality, but is also regarded by most reviewers as extremely pricy, especially considering the lack of entertainment options and minimalistic console area. However, for runners not interested in anything but running and who require a fully reliable machine with an excellent suspension track, it is a fantastic treadmill.
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Very Heavy But We Like It
Price when Reviewed: $1,272.95 – 4.2 stars Amazon rating
Pros:
- 5 CHP commercial motor
- 60”x22” track with ProShox cushioning to maximize joint protection
- 32 built-in workout apps which can be highly personalized
- Incline (0-15%) and decline (0-3%) options
- 8” backlit display
- Built-in speakers and includes port for iPod and other MP3 players
- iFit – allows users to download personalized workout programs, track their performance, compete in races with friends that are online, and even enjoy Google Maps running routes
- Table rack and cooling fan included
Cons:
- Although a tablet rack is included, its placement obscures the data screen
- A monitor (sold separately) is required for iFit
At $2,299 (sale price $1,272.95) this is a real runners’ treadmill, being one of very few to allow runners a decline option. However, since it is regarded as a treadmill for serious runners, it would have been preferable to have an even longer track, although 60”x22” is pretty spacious.
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Good for Beginners
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Price when Reviewed: $1,899.00 – 4.0 stars rating on Amazon
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Price when Reviewed: $1,397.54 – 4.3 stars Amazon rating – Better Option*
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Pros:
- 2.75 CHP motor
- Track is infused with wax, making it completely maintenance free except for dusting
- 60”x20” track has variable response cushioning that includes 3 levels of firmness distributed beneath the track to provide a smart blend of shock absorption and firmness
- Very large variety of 44 built-in Virtual Active workouts
- 10” full-colour touchscreen display
- Built-in speakers and includes USB port
- Passport video with Virtual Active tracking – uses wifi to connect to home TV and then the treadmill is synced (in speed, resistance etc.) to the video displayed on the TV screen
- Integrated with ViaFit app for collecting and combining data – also compatible with various other fitness apps
- Cooling fan included
- Treadmill goes into energy-saving mode if it is left on
- Includes cooling fan
- Includes tablet rack
Cons:
- No decline option
- Any additional Virtual Active workouts must be bought separately
- No web-enabled console
At $1,899 (for Horizon T9), this is a superior treadmill that gives users a very real-life experience with the Passport video and Virtual Active workouts. Users can virtually experience the Rocky Mountains or other exciting locations. The treadmill is synced to the video on the screen – the incline, speed, and resistance change automatically to simulate the surface of the terrain in the video. Some reviewers do complain however that the treadmill only has minor differences from its predecessor (the Horizon T7), which do not truly justify the $500 difference in price.
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The greatest improvement in cardiovascular fitness take place when exercise such as running or walking involves the use of large muscle groups. But what if the weather’s bad and we can’t get outside to walk or run? A treadmill is an indoor exercise machine. It allows you to set walking and running goals and to keep them. Whether its rain or sunshine, with the treadmill you can run or walk while remaining in one spot.
The more expensive versions are driven by an electric motor. The first exercise treadmills, invented by Dr Robert Bruce and Wayne Quinton were designed to diagnose heart and lung disease.
Flexibility and Price Important Factors
Foldable treadmills are a wise choice for those who don’t have a lot of space and who want to fold up the treadmill after use. But as mentioned earlier, foldable treadmills are just not worth the price, no matter how cheap or expensive it is.
When training for a race, running under conditions that imitate those of the race gives you superb preparation. The Sports & Fitness Industry Association tells us that treadmills are the largest selling exercise equipment category, with hundreds of manufacturers offering their wares.
Why Isn’t a Manual Treadmill the Best Choice?
There are 2 main types of treadmills – motorized and manual. With a manual treadmill, the runner has to power the belt with their footsteps. Yes, non-motorized treadmills are much cheaper, but to get the full benefit of a workout, a motorized treadmill can be set to a constant speed and you can use the timing settings to calculate calorie loss as an example.
With manual treadmills, the speed is set by the runner. The runner pushes the belt with their feet. You get tired quickly and will end up doing a shorter workout and burn less calories. It also makes it difficult to set a steady workout. Manual treadmills put quite a bit of strain on the knees and hip joints. They don’t come with all the features of a motorized version, so your workout is far less interesting and interactive.
What should a good Treadmill consist of
► the console and screen – these must be easily navigable with a large digital read-out. When you stand on the treadmill, make sure that all the buttons and the console look as though you’ll be able to make sense of them. Get the salesperson to at least show you how to start the treadmill. Look for console features such as pre-programmed and programmable routines, details on the number of calories being burned, heart rate as well as track time, distance and speed. More sophisticated units will offer more features which can be customized to the user’s needs.
► go for a motor that can handle all your walking and running activities. Go for a motor size of at least 3.0 HP or higher.
► safety features – accidents can happen. The emergency stop clip is a useful feature as it attaches to your clothes and the treadmill will be switched off automatically if you fall for instance.
► check out the shock absorption system of the treadmill. Make sure when you’re testing your treadmill out that the deck feels firm and stable. Knowing your stride length while running will tell you the minimum length running deck you can use. Do research on the different manufacturers and make sure that you buy a brand that offers research-based evidence as to why the deck will be beneficial to you. A test workout in-store will help you determine what features you need to improve your workout.
► electronic features – treadmills come with a spectrum of features such as calories burned, user IDs which are customizable and which store previous workouts. Some treadmills even come with a TV and DVD player, speakers and console fan. Most people want to monitor their heart rate. Choose a treadmill that can work with a wireless heart rate chest strap. The wireless belt is beneficial in that it eliminates the need to to be continually grasping the console’s EKG heart rate sensors.
How to make full use of a treadmill machine – tips for safety and best workout experience
- make use of the incline function. You can adjust the incline whether you are walking, jogging or running. Making use of the incline will increase the intensity of your sessions simply because you will be working harder than if the treadmill was level.
- warm up – walk for at least 5 minutes to prepare your muscles and prevent injuries. Always start off slowly and gradually increase the intensity.
- the American College of Sports Medicine tells you to practice good form by keeping your shoulders back, head up and belly tight. This way you use your muscles correctly.
- for safety’s sake, read your treadmill’s owner’s manual
Where are Treadmills typically used?
- in rehabilitation centers
- hospitals and clinics
- sports clubs and hotels
- Olympic training centers and universities
- fire training centers, army gyms etc
- NASA
- at home
In a medical setting, the treadmill has to be constructed strongly with specific medical fitness capabilities. It has a robust motor and running surface with a heavy-duty frame for the patient’s stability. A medical treadmill has a gentle starting speed of 0.1 mph which is beneficial to those with limited mobility. It will however, go up to higher speeds to allow for a range of uses with its different programming abilities. Some medical treadmills even have built-in seats so a therapist can sit close by and assist a stroke patient for instance who is learning to walk all over again.
What is the Difference between Home and Gym Treadmills?
► Home treadmills are lightweight and available in folding and non-folding styles.
- user capacity – up to about 300lbs
- motor – between 1 to 3HP
- most home treadmills are more or less standard in size – 81”X 32”
- residential treadmills comes with a host of use-friendly consoles
- the more modern models come with features such as a MP3 dock for music
► Commercial treadmills – found in gyms, spas and fitness centers – robust design to be used 24 hours a day and with decks which can absorb a lot of impact
- user capacity – up to 500lbs
- motor – between 3 to 5HP
- mostly non-folding models designed to support strenuous workouts
- the frames are stronger – a top commercial treadmill is the Precor TRM835 – the reason for this is that it offers an incline and decline feature as well as speeds up to 16mph. This kind of treadmill comes with a good warranty of 7 years.
Sources:
- www.treadmillreviews.net
- www.usa-homegym.com
- www.fitrated.com
- www.treadmillwatch.com
- www.topfitnessmag.com
- www.treadmilldoctor.com
- www.besthomegymequipmentguide.com
- www.besttreadmillsunder1000.com
A Good Treadmill needs to be Suitable for both Runners and Walkers
Both walkers and runners need shock absorption to protect the joints from impact. There are different brands and they include shock absorption technology and a host of different features to assist with safety, comfort, and performance. The treadmills also come with speed and incline controls to provide the user with different terrain simulations.
Whether you are training for a marathon or recovering from an injury, a quality treadmill is a perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of working a variety of muscle groups.
