Best Treadmills For Home of 2024 – Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

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Having your own treadmill is definitely a beneficial thing, and that is the case for a number of reasons. Running is a really healthy thing, both for your mind and your body, and it is perhaps one of the very best ways to stay physically fit. Running is good, but running on a treadmill is great because they have the ability to absorb impact, they come with preset workouts and programs, and being able to run in front of the TV in your own home is the ultimate in fitness convenience.

If you aren’t too sure about getting a treadmill or which one to get, you definitely came to the right place. We are here to help inform you about everything to do with treadmills including some tips on how to use a treadmill, some great treadmill workouts, what to look for when buying a treadmill, and of course the 12 best treadmill options out there, plus a whole lot too. If you don’t know much about treadmills yet, once you are done reading this you will definitely be an expert. We are here to help you find the best treadmill for home!

Summary: The Best Treadmills For Home

8 Benefits of Running On A Treadmill

If you have never tried running on a treadmill before, you should be interested to know that doing so holds a great number of benefits for your physical and mental health. Running on a treadmill is no doubt one of the very best things that you can do for your health, your mind, and your wallet. Let us tell you why.

Benefit #1: Burning A Lot Of Calories

Something which you should definitely appreciate about running on a treadmill is that it can help you burn a whole lot of calories and help you bring those weight loss goals to fruition. How many calories you burn will depend on how fast you run as well as the incline which you run at, but generally speaking, you can burn as many as 800 calories from 1 hour of running.

Burning calories is of course not just beneficial in terms of producing energy and for getting rid of that cheeseburger you ate a couple hours ago, but it will also help you lose weight. When your body doesn’t have enough calories to turn into energy to keep you running, it has to turn to your fat reserves, or in other words, you get rid of that pot belly and those love handles when you run your butt off.

Of course, running also increases your metabolism, and as we all know, an increased metabolic rate means that your body becomes more efficient at burning calories and fat, and also burns more of them. Exercise such as running also increases your EPOC or exercise post oxygen consumption, which means that your body will continue to burn an increased number of calories long after you have finished exercising. Therefore you can eat more, and if you run, you will still be able to keep the weight off, even if you do love the occasional burger or pizza slice.

Benefit #2: It’s Economically Friendly

Sure, a treadmill may cost you a bit of money, and in some cases, it may even cost you a few thousand bucks, but it is definitely well worth the cost, especially when you factor in that it is a great way to keep healthy. The simple fact of the matter is that owning your own treadmill is still much cheaper than purchasing an expensive gym membership.

Even if you end up spending somewhere around 3,000 dollars on a treadmill, you will more than make up for the value of a gym membership in just a few short years. If you want to save money and stay healthy, a decent treadmill is the way to go, especially because you can still get a darn good treadmill for under 1,000 dollars.

Benefit #3: Bone Building

One of the biggest reasons as to why you should run on a treadmill is because of the bone building qualities that come with running. You see, running is considered to be a weight bearing exercise, something which is crucial for the building and healthy maintenance of your bones. A weight bearing exercise is any kind of exercise which forces you to put an increased amount of weight on your bones and joints, things such as running, hiking, or even doing pushups.

Weight bearing exercises such as running are great for your bones because bone building happens in virtually the same way as muscle building does. The more you exercise your bones, or in this case put weight on them, the more bone mass your osteoblasts produce. The more bones mass is produced, the denser and bigger your bones get, things which are essential for preventing broken bones and combatting things like osteoporosis in your old age.

Benefit #4: More Energy & A Better Sleep

The next benefit about running on a treadmill that you should definitely be able to appreciate is that it helps you be much more energetic throughout the day. This is in part because running helps increase your metabolism. Your body turns calories and fat into energy, therefore the higher your metabolic rate is, the more energy your body can produce for you.

Moreover, having better moods and having all of that serotonin being produced by your brain also helps you deal with the day’s challenges much better.

On the other hand, running on a regular basis also helps you sleep much better. You will sleep better because a good run will definitely make you feel tired at night, plus all of the stress and anxiety reducing effects of the runner’s high put your mind at ease and make it easier to sleep.

Benefit #5: Building Leg Muscles

Another benefit you get from running on a regular basis, with the added convenience of it being on a treadmill, is that it will no doubt strengthen your legs. Running builds up various leg muscles to make them bigger and stronger, something which can be pretty beneficial in your old age as it gets harder to balance and stay upright. There is also the fact that it’s always hard for the opposite sex to resist a pair of nicely toned calves!

Benefit #6: Better Cardiovascular Health

A big benefit that you can get from running on a treadmill is that it is great for your heart health. Running is one of the best forms of cardio that you can engage in, and your body will definitely thank you for doing so. Running for an hour or even just for 20 minutes will definitely get your heart pumping and that is exactly what you want.

Your heart is a muscle and muscles get stronger as you exercise them. The stronger your heart gets, the more blood it can pump to your muscles, and that means that your muscles can work for longer before getting tired, which ultimately means that a stronger heart results in better physical output, which ultimately lets you strengthen your heart even more!

Better heart health also means that you have a much lower risk of suffering from heart attacks, developing heart or arterial disease, it means having a healthy blood pressure level, a lower resting heart rate, and ultimately it will keep you alive for much longer.

Benefit #7: It’s Convenient

The next reason why you should start running on a treadmill, and even purchase one yourself, is because it is very convenient, and can actually go a long way in keeping you motivated to exercise on a daily basis. A treadmill is something that you have in your own home and that means that you can exercise at any time of the day when it suits you most. It’s much more convenient than having to drag your butt to the gym at a certain time of the day.

There is also the fact that it takes time and money to travel to the gym just to get on a treadmill, as opposed to having it in your own home. It’s much easier to stay motivated to run when the exercise equipment is right in front of your face in your own home. Another motivational part of many treadmills is that the vast majority of them have built-in speakers and can connect to your music playing devices.

Many can even connect to online progress tracking tools and software that simulates outdoor running routes and friendly competition too. On a side note, running on a treadmill is also much safer than running outdoors where there is always a chance of being struck by a vehicle, especially at night time, plus on a treadmill there are no pedestrians to get in your way.

Benefit #8: Making Yourself Happier & More Confident

Another benefit which you should be able to appreciate about running on a treadmill is that it can help make you happier, increase your good moods, and even help combat depression, stress, and anxiety too. You see, when you run and engage in various forms of aerobic exercise such as running, your brain produces certain chemicals or at least more of the same chemicals that naturally occur in your brain.

You have probably heard of something called The Runner’s High and that is definitely a real thing. One of the most important chemicals which your brain produces in excess when you exercise is serotonin, a neurochemical that produces the feeling of happiness and elation. An increased amount of serotonin can help lessen the severity of depression and anxiety.

Your brain also produces something called endocannabinoids when you exercise, the same substances found in marijuana, substances which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even decrease the perception of pain. The simple fact of the matter is that your moods will be better and you won’t feel sad nearly as much thanks to the happiness inducing effects of exercise.

Running on a regular basis will also help you feel more confident in yourself, because you will look better, feel healthier, and you will be happy whenever you look in the mirror.

5 Tips On How To Use A Treadmill

Walking, jogging, or running on a treadmill may seem very simple and straightforward, and in some respects that may be the case, but there are a few mistakes that people tend to make when using these pieces of exercise equipment, mistakes that can actually end up being pretty painful, or at the least cause you a nuisance. With these simple tips, you can use a treadmill properly, avoid the risk of injury, and get healthy while doing so.

Tip #1: Wearing The Right Shoes

One of the most important things to do before you get onto your treadmill is to find the right running shoes. You definitely want running shoes that have a fair amount of padding or cushioning in all parts of the soles. This is so your feet don’t take too much impact while you run, something that can become painful, tiresome, and cause long term damage if not handled properly.

You also want running shoes that have good ankle support because twisting an ankle during a 60-minute run is definitely a possibility. Good ankle support is the best way to make sure that a slip or misstep doesn’t end up turning into a sprained or broken ankle. On that same note, you also want shoes that have a moderate sole height instead of being high, which will also reduce your chances of twisting an ankle. Finally, you will also want running shoes that have some good arch support, something that is especially important if you have flat feet.

Tip #2: How You Land

Another thing to keep in mind before you start running on a treadmill is how you run. Always make sure to land on the ball of your foot with each step, not your heel. Landing on your heel means that you are landing flat footed, something which on a treadmill causes you to lean backward. Leaning backward as the belt moves forward puts undue strain on your back and hips, something which you definitely do not want. When you land flat footed it causes your feet to absorb much more impact than they should be taking. Proper running technique dictates that that you land on the balls of your feet with each step.

Tip #3: Where You Look

Another great tip to follow for running on a treadmill is to always look forward. Many people make the mistake of looking at their feet or just looking down in general as they run. Doing so can strain the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and upper back, something that can definitely be quite painful. Looking down also causes your hips and butt to protrude outwards too much, something that strains your lower back and hips. The easiest way to avoid this is simply by looking forward as you run. While you are looking forward, make sure that you don’t hunch your back. Keep your back straight or risk straining it.

Tip #4: Your Routine

It is one thing to have a routine, but to always stick to that same routine will become boring, so boring that you will end up losing all motivation and over time will probably quit using the treadmill altogether. Make sure to have a few different running routines because that will help keep your motivation high. Since you are on a treadmill, a piece of equipment built for convenience, it is also a good idea to listen to music, watch TV, or even read a book as you exercise, all things which will help keep you motivated and pass the time.

Tip #5: Start Slow

If you are not used to running or working out in general, you should definitely start out slow. Start with one of the lower settings and make sure to hold onto the hand railings if you feel unstable. You don’t have to keep going like that, but it is always better to start out slow than to be the next person in one of those YouTube videos where some sorry schmuck gets flung off of the treadmill and hits the wall behind them. When it comes to holding onto the railings, especially when you are doing it on an incline, make sure that you aren’t actually holding your body weight up with your arms because that somewhat defeat the purpose of running on the treadmill in the first place.

To get a complete picture of everything that you should and should not be doing while running on a treadmill, you can check out these two YouTube videos:

How to Use a Treadmill Correctly : Personal Fitness
How To Exercise On A Treadmill

To learn how to use a treadmill at an incline, you can check out this video:

Cardio Exercises: How to Run or Walk at High Incline to Tone the Thighs : Fitness Routines

6 Great Treadmill Workouts You Should Try

Running on a treadmill doesn’t just involve brainlessly trudging along, and if it does, then you are going about it the wrong way. There are quite a few different treadmill workouts that will help strengthen your legs, keep you healthy, and let you keep your weight under control. Some routines are better for beginners and some are better for people who are already pretty fit. Here are just a few different treadmill workout routines that you can try.

Workout #1: The 30-Minute Tempo Workout

  • Start with a 10-minute walk or light jog
  • Follow that up with 10-minutes of running (7 out of 10 intensity)
  • Finish with a 10-minute cool down – walking or light jogging

Workout #2: The 30-Minute Interval Workout

  • Start with 10 minutes of walking or light jogging
  • Follow that up with 8 x 1-minute intervals of running (9 out of 10 intensity). Do 1 minute of recovery between each interval. Keep in mind that recovery does not mean doing nothing, it means going back to a light jog or walking
  • End with 4 minutes of cool down – walking or light jogging

Workout #3: The 30 Minute Hill Workout

  • Start with a 10-minute jog
  • Now do 5 x 2-minute intervals of hill running at a 7 percent incline, with 1 minute of recovery in between each hill
  • Do a 5-minute cool down – light jogging

To check out a few other workout routines that you can do on a treadmill you can check out these videos, all of which are some basic treadmill workouts to help you lose weight and tone your legs.

Workout #4: The 10-Minute Workout for Weight Loss, Fat Loss, & Muscle Gain

10 Minute Workout for Weight Loss, Fat Loss, & Muscle Gain Dr. Dan Pompa with HGH Stimulation

Workout #5: The Thighs & Buttocks Toning Workout

How to Tone the Thighs & Buttocks Through Jogging : Muscles Strengthening & Stretching

Workout #6: Another Workout To Lose Body Fat and Weight

What To Look For In A Treadmill & How To Choose A Treadmill

As you are going to find out, treadmills are not the cheapest pieces of exercise equipment out there. That being said, when you consider the vast number of benefits that come along with running on a treadmill, they are definitely well worth the investment. However, before you go out and spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on one of these things, there are a few key considerations that you should keep in mind. Here are some of the most important things to look for when buying a treadmill.

Motor

Perhaps one of the most crucial things to pay attention to before buying any particular treadmill is the motor which it has. A good treadmill should have at least a 2.0 CHP motor, with some of the better ones going all the way up to 4.0 CHP. Your treadmill needs a good motor to ensure that it won’t wear out quickly. A weak motor means not only a slow moving treadmill but also means that it probably won’t last for too long.

Speed & Incline

Another thing to look for when buying a treadmill is how fast it can go. If you are just a beginner, a treadmill that can go 8 or 10 miles per hour will suffice. However, if you want to really push yourself, you should be looking for a treadmill that can go up to 12 or even 15 miles per hour. On that same note, a treadmill that can go on an incline is not completely necessary, at least not if you are a beginner, but these things are long term investments. To give you the most bang for your buck and to give yourself a good challenge, you should get a treadmill that can simulate hill running by being able to incline anywhere from 10 to 15 percent.

Portability Factor – Space

The next thing that you should keep in mind before making your purchase is what space requirements or restrictions your home has. This is especially important if you have a small home. You might want to look for a treadmill that can fold in half for easy storage. On that same note, the size of the treadmill, specifically the size of the running floor, is important to consider in terms of your own size. If you have long legs you will want a treadmill with a long running space to make running comfortable.

Cushioning

It is only natural for your feet and legs to take some impact when running because that is natural. However, too much impact is not a good thing and may damage your joints over time. Therefore, the treadmill that you buy should have some kind of cushioning or shock absorbing technology included to minimize the shock which your feet and legs take with each step.

Preset Programs

Another thing to look for in a good treadmill is if it has any preset exercise programs as well as the number of them. Sure, being able to change the speed and incline is great, and manual settings will definitely get your heart pumping, but for variety’s sake, it is always nice to have a number of preset exercise programs. They will give you some variety and they will also challenge you in various ways.

Some Extras

The final thing which you may want to pay attention to before you buy a treadmill is if it has any extras included. What we mean by extras is if the treadmill in question has a stand for a book, tablet, or music playing device. Another good thing for a treadmill to have is built-in speakers as well as an audio jack so you can connect your MP3 player or iPod. Something like a built-in water bottle holder is also ideal.

What Are The Top Treadmill Brands?

When it comes to buying a treadmill, a piece of equipment that can end up being fairly expensive, you definitely want to get a good brand name piece of equipment. You obviously have a favorite cereal, chips, or candy bar, and they all taste great. Well, have you ever had the knock off version? Yeah, they never taste as great. It’s the same concepts with treadmills because you can get ones that have a low-quality brand, or even no brand name at all. You want to be sure to get a good brand name, some of which include the following:

  • Sole
  • NordicTrack
  • ProFrom
  • Nautilus
  • Schwinn
  • LifeSpan
  • Sunny Health & Fitness
  • Weslo

Do keep in mind that these aren’t all of the good brand names out there, and there are other manufacturers of exercise equipment that make good treadmills, but the ones we listed above are among the best ones.

Treadmill For Home Reviews

Our Rating

This is by far one of the best treadmills that money can buy, and while it is not the cheapest option, it is definitely well worth the price. It is an extremely durable piece of equipment that comes equipped with a very wide array of features, all of which will definitely have you working up a sweat like no tomorrow.


Design

One of the best features of the Sole F85 Treadmill is that it has a 4.0 CHP DC Type Motor, in other words, it is one of the strongest motors that any treadmill has ever had. This motor is sure to last for a very long time and will definitely not wear out anytime soon. The Sole F85 can go up to 12 miles per hour to give you a great challenge, plus it can be inclined up to 15 degrees to simulate uphill running, both features which will definitely have you working up a sweat.

Moreover, this treadmill is built out of state of the art materials that won’t bend or break under your weight or when challenged with a strenuous workout routine. Also, the weight limit of this treadmill is 400 pounds, which makes it ideal for even the largest of people to use. Furthermore the running surface on this treadmill measures in at 35 by 80 inches, yet another factor which makes it ideal for larger people. To make it even more durable, the belt of this treadmill is 2-ply to make it a strong as you could ever hope.

Another feature that we really like about this particular treadmill is that it comes with several preset workout programs which can be customized to your needs. It comes with 6 standard programs, 2 custom programs, and 2 heart programs, all of which are designed to challenge you physically in their own specific way.

The Sole F85 Treadmill is also great because it offers you with a very comfortable running experience. It has a proprietary Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, a feature that provides you with a cloud like running experience thanks to the high amount of shock and impact that the deck can absorb, thus keeping your feet free of pain and injury.

Another thing that makes this treadmill comfortable to use is that it has fans to keep you cool while you run, plus it also has an MP3 compatible hookup with built-in speakers to keep you motivated while you run.

Even better is the oversized 9-inch LCD display which is easy to read, plus it displays factors such as how far you have run, the speed you’re going at, calories burned, steps taken, and it also has the ability to measure your heart rate thanks to the heart monitoring chest strap. Your pulse can actually also be measured with the pulse grips on the conveniently placed handlebars.

Value for money

While this is definitely one of the more expensive options you could go with, coming in at over 2,500 dollars, it has more than enough features to make it worth the investment. This thing has a ton of different preset workout programs, it can go fast, has a good incline percentage, it’s easy on the feet, it plays music, and it even has fans to keep you cool while you exercise, not to mention that it’s an extremely durable treadmill as well.

Build quality

One of the things that we definitely can’t complain about when it comes to this treadmill is the build quality. It has a very high maximum user weight limit, it is built with sturdy materials, it is very stable, and it has a fantastically powerful motor too. The whole thing is designed from top to bottom to last for as long as you need it for.

Pros

  • 0 – 12 mph
  • 15 percent incline
  • 4.0 CHP motor
  • 2-ply running belt
  • Large running surface
  • 400-pound weight capacity
  • Very durable
  • Various preset workout programs
  • Built-in speakers and MP3 compatibility
  • Cooling fans to keep you comfortable

Cons

  • Bad customer service
  • Quite loud

Our Rating

This is an extremely high-quality treadmill and you will definitely love it. The ProForm Pro 2000 is one of the most advanced treadmills that you could get right now, not to mention that it is one of the most durable options too. Plus there is the fact that it has been rated as being the “best buy” from various consumer magazines.


Design

One of the most impressive parts about the ProForm is that it features a 3.5 CHP motor, making it one of the strongest treadmill motors that you could hope to get. You can be sure that this thing will last you a really long time, plus there is the fact that the motor is self-cooling to make it even more long lasting.

Speaking of the durability, this treadmill features a commercial grade construction with a solid steel frame that any personal trainer would be happy with. The solid design also makes sure that the treadmill won’t wobble for optimal stability and a wobble free running experience.

Another thing that makes for a great running experience is the ProShox Cushioning System that provides a ton of comfort and absorbs as much shock as humanly possible. Each side of the treadmill deck also has strategically placed absorbers that absorb even more impact than ever before. The whole thing is built so well with precision engineering that keeps both the deck and the motor as silent as can be while you run.

Even though this is a pretty big and heavy treadmill, it can actually still save a whole lot of space. This is because it has the capability to fold in half and be stored vertically, something which makes it great for smaller homes. Yes, this piece of equipment does weight 300 plus pounds, but that is why it has an advanced easy lift hydraulic system so you don’t have to strain your back folding it up. The hydraulic system also keeps it from falling down too quickly when you unfold it.

Perhaps the best part about this particular treadmill is that it can connect to the Internet through iFit technology. This means that you can choose from as many different workout routines, settings, and running programs that you can find online. There are even specialized programs such as the 30 Day Fresh Start For Treadmills or The 60 Day Weight Loss Program.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a good treadmill if it couldn’t go at least 12 miles per hour, plus it can incline up to 15 degrees and down to negative 3 degrees, making it an extremely versatile option that will definitely challenge your capabilities. This thing also has a 7-inch oversized LCD display for easy reading, it can count your speed, calories burned, heart rate, distance gone, and various other things, plus Google maps can also display scenic routes for some motivation.

Value for money

While this is one of the more expensive options out there, the various features it that this treadmill has are definitely worth the cost. The ProForm 2000 comes in at around 1,200 dollars and can provide you with as many workout options and programs as you can handle, it is extremely durable and stable, it has a strong motor, a great LCD display, and is one of the overall best choices.

Build quality

The build Quality of the ProForm 2000 Treadmill is absolutely phenomenal. The super-strong motor combined with the shock absorbing deck alone is enough to make this a quality find. The quiet and smooth run it gives you and the multitude of options and features that this treadmill provides you with only serve to increase the quality even more. There is also the fact that this is a big and strong treadmill that is made out of solid steel.

Pros

  • Oversized LCD display
  • Extra-strong motor
  • Excellent shock absorbing capabilities
  • Connects to the Internet for unlimited programs
  • 0 to 12 mph & -3 to 15 degree incline options
  • Folding design for space saving capabilities
  • Solid steel build
  • High weight capacity
  • Smooth and quiet running experience

Cons

  • May be missing some parts upon delivery
  • Company is lacking on customer support

Our Rating

When it comes to high-quality treadmills it would be wise to not overlook the 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill. It is a very durable piece of equipment with a large number of preset programs, it is steady and stable, has a strong motor, and is absolutely great because of its compact folding nature.


Design

One of the very best things about the 3G Cardio Fold Flat Treadmill is that it is the perfect piece of equipment for small and tight spaces. This thing can fold up vertically so you can easily store it in a closet or just put it against a wall, but it can also fold down horizontally to just under 10 inches in height so you can put it under your bed when it’s not in use.

Something else that we really like this treadmill is because it has a very strong 3.0 CHP motor which ensures that the motor and belt will last for a very long time to come. Even better is the large running surface that you get which is 60 inches long, making this treadmill great for running and makes it very stable as well. The 3.0 CHP motor allows the 3G cardio to go up to 11 miles per hour which is more than enough to challenge even the fittest of people.

To increase the challenge even more, this treadmill can be inclined up to 15 percent to simulate hill running as well. This thing is also one of the most comfortable treadmills to run on thanks to the advanced suspension system as well as its ability to absorb a whole lot of impact to keep your feet pain free.

The 3G Treadmill also has a fantastic LCD display which can track your progress, lets you easily change the settings, and shows you things like the elapsed time, the distance you have gone, calories burned, the speed you are going at, and your heart rate too. There is also the fact that this treadmill has a wide variety of preset running programs to choose from, something which definitely adds to the versatility of the 3G.

Value for money

While this treadmill may be fairly expensive, coming in at just under 2,000 dollars, it does have a great number of features that make it well worth the price. The fantastic LCD display, progress tracking features, and various programs to choose from all make this a valuable find, not to mention that it is very durable and extremely space efficient thanks to the dual folding technology it employs.

Build quality

We have nothing bad to say about the build quality of this treadmill. It is made out of very heavy-duty materials which are sure not to rust, break, or bend, and the motor itself is very powerful too. This thing provides you with a smooth running surface, it has an ingenious folding design and uses state of the art technology combined with an LCD display for optimal progress tracking.

Pros

  • Great LCD display
  • Smooth walking surface
  • Powerful motor
  • Advanced suspension system
  • Dual folding design for compact storage
  • Many preset running programs
  • Can go up to 11 miles per hour – 15 percent incline
  • Built-in speakers

Cons

  • Heavy and fairly hard to move
  • No volume control for the speakers

Our Rating

A very good option to go with is the Xterra Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill and it is because of the easy to use nature of it, its durability, its powerful motor, the comfortable experience it provides, and the various pre-programmed settings that it has.


Design

One of the things which we really like about this particular treadmill is that it has a number of preset workout programs to help you achieve your goals. These settings include 7 various preset programs, 2 manual programs, 2 user settings, and 2 heart rate controlled programs in order to give you the variety you need to get back into shape.

Another thing that is great about this treadmill is that you can set it anywhere between 0 to 12 miles per hour, plus it can also be set to an incline of up to 15 percent. Moreover, this treadmill also has a huge 7.5-inch LCD display that tracks various fitness factors such as distance traveled, calories burned, the speed you’re running at, and various other things too. It also has easy to use buttons which let you change the settings with the touch of your fingers.

Something else that is really beneficial about this treadmill is that it has heart rate sensors in the handlebars to measure your heart rate. This thing also has a cushioned running deck for ultimate comfort and to absorb shock as well, plus it also has a 3.0 CHP motor that will keep chugging on for years to come.

Speaking of durability the running belt is made of 2-ply heavy-duty material to increase its longevity. We also like the fact that this treadmill has a built-in water bottle holder for convenience, a remote control, and it also has an MP3 holder plus a jack so you can play music while you run.

Value for money

For somewhere around 1,000 dollars, you really can’t go wrong with the Xterra Fitness Treadmill and the value it gives you. This thing is a very large and heavy-duty piece of workout equipment with a ton of different features such as an advanced LCD display, various exercise settings, and the ability to play music as well.

Build quality

The quality of the Xterra Fitness Treadmill is absolutely outstanding. The powerful motor combined with the heavy-duty yet extremely comfortable running surface definitely make this a quality treadmill. This thing will last for a really long time and provide you with a comfortable running experience the whole time. The fact that it has so many different features only helps to add to the quality of this treadmill.

Pros

  • Fantastic LCD display
  • Various user settings for versatility
  • Power 3.0 CHP motor
  • 2-ply cushioned running surface
  • Change settings with the touch of your fingers
  • 0 to 12 mph
  • 15 percent incline
  • Heart rate monitor
  • Weight limit of 350 pounds

Cons

  • Quite difficult to assemble
  • Very heavy and bulky
  • LCD panel could be made out of better plastic

Our Rating

Another good choice to go with is the LifeSpan TR1200i Folding Treadmill. It’s a very convenient option to go with, it’s very affordable, and it has a wide variety of features that make it an excellent workout option to go with.


Design

One of the things that we really like about this treadmill is that it folds. With a minimal amount of effort, you can quickly fold this treadmill in half for the ultimate in space saving workout equipment. This makes the LifeSpan more than ideal for smaller sized homes. It also has a soft drop system so when you unfold it the whole thing does not come crashing down to the ground.

Something else that is great about this treadmill is that it features 21 different workout programs for you to choose from, all of which will test your capabilities in various ways. This thing also features an intuitive LCD display that lets you keep track of various fitness factors, and it even has Intelli-step technology which means that it can count every single step that you take. Even better is that you can insert a USB drive into the console so you can export the data to your computer so you can create a spreadsheet and accurately keep track of your workout goals.

Another thing which we really like about this particular treadmill is that it has a powerful 2.5 horsepower motor which will last for years and years to come. This treadmill has one of the longest lasting motors in the industry, a feature that nobody can argue with.

The next thing we really like is that the whole thing is robotically welded and made of solid steel to ensure its durability. It also has an extremely comfortable running surface which is more than big enough to let you run comfortably. There is also the fact that it can go up to 12 miles per hour and also has a 12 percent incline capability too.

Value for money

This treadmill comes in at around 1,000 dollars and that is something which we really appreciate. It has a great number of features, it is made of machine welded steel to make it durable, it has 21 different exercise programs, and best of all, it can fit into even the smallest of homes thanks to folding feature. For the price it comes at, you really can’t argue with the value that you get.

Build quality

One of the reasons as to why we like this particular treadmill so much is because it is made out of machine welded steel, features a strong motor, and a comfortable running surface too, all things which help to make this a quality treadmill no doubt. We also like the fact that it can fold in half, yet another quality factor.

Pros

  • Folds for compact storage
  • Quite affordable
  • 21 pre-set running programs
  • Strong motor
  • Extremely comfortable running surface
  • LCD display for fitness tracking
  • 0 to 12 mph / 12 percent incline

Cons

  • Fairly difficult to assemble
  • Cheap plastic hood over the motor

Our Rating

If you’re looking for a decent treadmill for home, the Schwinn 830 is definitely a really good choice to go with. It is durable and reliable, has a great number of features, and will put even the most seasoned of runners to the test.


Design

One of the things that we really like about the Schwinn 830 is that it has a very large high-resolution backlit LCD display which makes it easy to see and easy to maneuver. The monitor lets you quickly change settings and also displays various aspects such as time spent running, calories burned, distance traveled, and even your heart rate too.

The display even has a USB port so you can export your fitness data to myfitnesspal.com or schwinnconnect.com, both being fantastic places to store your data and keep track of it.

Another thing that we like about the Schwinn 830 is that it will put even the fittest of runners to the test. You can set it to a speed of anywhere from 0 to 12 miles per hour, plus you can set the incline up to 12 percent as well.

Set both to the max and you will definitely work up a sweat. If that isn’t enough, there are also 22 different fitness programs, including 1 manual setting, 3 quick goals, 5 training programs, 3 weight control settings, 5 heart health programs, 3 interval training programs, and 2 custom programs.

Finally, this treadmill is very comfortable to run on thanks to the large crowned rollers which provides for a smooth and quiet workout, plus it also has SoftTrack 4 cell cushioning to give you a soft workout surface. There is also the fact that the running belt is 20 by 55 inches in size which is very comfortable to run on.

On a side note, this treadmill also has high-quality acoustic chambered speakers so you can play music from your MP3 player as loud as you want.

Value for money

For just under 1,000 dollars, you get an immeasurable level of quality that is the Schwinn 830 Treadmill. This is a very durable treadmill with a ton of different settings to suit your exact exercise needs and get you sweating like no tomorrow. The great LCD display and data export capabilities only serve to add to the value of this piece of equipment.

Build quality

When it comes to the build quality of the Schwinn 830 there is nothing to worry about. This thing is very durable, it has a very strong motor, and the running surface is more than ideal for everybody. This item is also easy to use, plus it doesn’t take up that much space either, not to mention that the vast amount of settings, all things which make this a quality find indeed.

Pros

  • High-resolution LCD display
  • Data export capabilities
  • Smooth and quiet running surface
  • 22 different settings
  • 0 to 12 mph
  • Up to a 12 percent incline
  • Quick settings change buttons

Cons

  • Takes a long time to assemble
  • Hard to get it working in the beginning

Our Rating

Another great treadmill option to go with is the Nautilus T614 Treadmill. This thing has a great max user weight limit, a strong motor, it can absorb shock quite well, it has a USB Port, speakers, and a number of different settings, all of which make this a great treadmill to consider buying.


Design

Perhaps one of the best parts about the design of this particular treadmill is that it is very compact. This means that you can easily fit it into a smaller home, not to mention that it has the ability to fold in half for easy vertical storage in even the smallest of spaces. The Nautilus also has a soft drop folding system so it doesn’t take much force to fold it up, plus it won’t drop down too quickly when you go to unfold it. This thing even has roller wheels which can be used to easily move it from one space to another.

One of the things that we really like about this treadmill is that it has chambered acoustic speakers which can be connected to your iPod or other music playing device so you can listen to tunes when you run. This treadmill also has the capability to connect to various websites, with USB drive, where you can transfer your fitness data to a spreadsheet for easy monitoring and where you also have access to progress tracking software as well as a number of workout programs.

Another impressive feature about the Nautilus is that it can go up to 12 miles per hour, it can go on an incline up to 12 percent, and the motor is pretty powerful too at 2.75 CPH. This thing also has 2 user profiles and a fairly large running surface to let you work out in comfort. Speaking of comfort, the Nautilus Treadmill also has StrikeZone Cushioning which provides you with unparalleled cushioning and shock absorption so you can run in comfort all day long.

Value for money

The Nautilus is a gym quality treadmill that comes in at a fairly reasonable price. Around 800 dollars is not very expensive when you consider all of the great features that this treadmill has including the ability to export data, music connection, a strong motor, various user profiles, and a whole lot of exercise settings to keep you occupied. It’s a durable item that will definitely have you running as fast as you can go.

Build quality

This particular treadmill is definitely a quality option to go with. It has a very solid design that ensures its durability and longevity and enables it to stand up to even the most strenuous of workout routines, plus it can also hold a maximum weight of 300 pounds. All of the different user settings, the speed and incline which it can go to, and the powerful motor are all added bonuses.

Pros

  • Has a powerful motor
  • Special shock absorbing design
  • O to 12 mph & 12 percent incline
  • Can connect to music devices
  • Export data with USB
  • Solid and stable build
  • Easy touch settings
  • Various exercise options and programs
  • Nice LCD display

Cons

  • Difficult to assemble
  • Occasional software issues

Our Rating

This is a great medium grade treadmill that will definitely do the trick and have you working up a big sweat in no time at all. It has a multitude of features and adjustable options that provide you with an intense yet very comfortable running experience.


Design

One of the features that make the NordicTrack Treadmill a quality find is the 5-inch backlit LCD display which makes reading your progress easier than ever. The display shows you fitness factors such as how far you have run, how fast you are running, the number of calories you burned, how long you have been running for and your heart rate too. The way in which it measures your pulse is through the heartbeat sensors in the handlebars.

Something else that is very convenient about this treadmill is that it features simple to use one touch buttons that let you change the speed and incline on the fly without having to scroll through endless menus. Speaking of the speed and incline, this treadmill can go up to 12 miles per hour and can be put on an incline of up to 10 percent, both factors which will definitely offer you a big challenge.

Part of this challenge you get is thanks to the 2.6 CHP motor that will last you for a very long time. Even better is the fact that it features 20 different preset workout programs to offer you various challenges to suit your exact fitness goals and your needs. There is also the fact that each of the 20 programs was specially designed by a personal trainer to optimize the results that you get from each program.

This particular treadmill is also very comfortable thanks to the fact that it has a large running surface of 20 by 55 inches. Another factor that makes this treadmill very comfortable is the FlexSelect Cushioning System that absorbs a whole lot impact to keep your feet pain free. We really like the fact that you can choose between an optimally cushioned running deck and a firm deck with the simple twist of a knob.

Another thing we like about this treadmill is that it can connect to your iPod or other music playing devices to play all of your favorite tunes through the high-quality speakers as you run. This thing is also iFit compatible so you can personalize your workouts even further, gain access to superb progress tracking software, compete in competitions, and get access to Google Maps to display virtual running routes from around the world.

Value for money

For under 1,000 dollars you really can’t go wrong with the NordicTrack Treadmill. The various options of fitness programs, the iPod and iFit compatibility, the soft running surface, the powerful motor, and the solid build of this treadmill all make it a very valuable find no doubt.

Build quality

We have nothing to complain about when it comes to the build quality of the NordicTrack Treadmill. It features a very sturdy design and solid materials that keep this thing stable while you run. The FlexSelect Cushioning, the various workout programs, the awesome LCD display, and being compatible with your music playing devices only serve to add to the quality.

Pros

  • iPod and iFit compatible
  • Built-in speakers
  • 20 different exercise programs
  • 0 – 12 mph / 10 percent incline
  • 2.6 CHP motor
  • Quick touch buttons
  • Displays various fitness factors
  • Durable build

Cons

  • Motor becomes quite loud with prolonged use
  • Bad customer service
  • Incline can be a little sticky

Our Rating

If you are looking for a brand new treadmill that combines ease of use, durability, versatility, and affordability, the Sunny Health & Fitness Treadmill is the way to go. It’s a compact treadmill that won’t cost you a fortune, yet it still delivers quite a bang for the buck you spend.


Design

One of the things that we really like about the design of the Sunny Health & Fitness Electric Treadmill is that it is very small. The running surface is 16 by 49 inches, which is relatively small, plus it has the capability to easily fold up in half for easy vertical storage. Both of those features make this the perfect treadmill for any small home, not to mention that it has a soft drop system so it won’t come down on your toes as you unfold it.

Another thing that you are really going to like about this treadmill is that it has 9 built-in user programs to test your fitness levels. It also has 3 different levels of resistance so you can challenge yourself more and more as you get fitter. Of course, you can also manually adjust the speed of this treadmill with the manual speed option which can go anywhere up to 12 miles per hour.

Something that is very convenient about this particular treadmill is that it has stable hand rails to keep you comfortable, plus the handrails themselves also feature built-in easy touch controls to start, stop, and adjust the speed. Even better is the fact that the handrails can also measure your pulse to help you keep track of your progress. The display itself is easy enough to maneuver, not to mention that it also displays factors such as your speed and distance that you’ve gone.

Value for money

When you think of a treadmill costing under 400 dollars, such as this Sunny Health & Fitness model, you usually wouldn’t think of a quality item such as this one. It definitely has the capabilities you need to give you a great workout. It’s a compact option, with a durable build, and an easy to use design that all make it well worth the price.

Build quality

There is nothing to argue about when it comes to the build quality of this treadmill. Things like being able to fold in half, having a bunch of settings, and easy to control features such as the handrail buttons all make this a quality treadmill. There is also the fact that it has a motor which is more than powerful enough to keep you running for ages to come. It has a max user weight of 220 pounds which makes it pretty strong indeed.

Pros

  • Folds for easy storage
  • 2.2 HP motor
  • 16x49 inches running surface for space saving
  • Handrail controls for ease of use
  • 9 built-in user programs
  • 3 different incline levels
  • Monitors heart rate

Cons

  • Not ideal for larger people – max weight of 220 lbs
  • No space for water bottle or music device
  • Quite noisy

Our Rating

This is a great treadmill to go with for several reasons. It is a very economically friendly model with a space saving design, a great motor, it has various exercise programs, and it does a great job at absorbing shock as well. If you want to combine a quality running experience with a cash friendly option, the ProForm 300i Treadmill is definitely a good option to think about.


Design

One of the things that we really like about the ProForm Performance 300i Treadmill is that it has a ProShox Cushioning System. This specialized cushioning provides a whole lot of shock absorbing capabilities to keep you comfortable and keep your feet free of pain so you can run for as long as you can take.

Another thing which we like about this particular treadmill is that it has a space saving design which makes it perfect for smaller homes and tight spaces. It can fold in half for vertical storage as well, which makes it easy to store in small areas so it doesn’t clutter up your home while it is not in use.

The next great thing about this treadmill is that it has a 2.0 CHP motor which means that it has more than enough juice to keep going for years to come. This thing can go anywhere from 0 to 10 miles per hour, plus it can also reach an incline of up to 12 percent to provide one heck of a challenge for you.

The ProForm Performance 300i also has 8 different preset workout apps which will test your fitness level in various ways. There is also the fact that each of the preset workouts was specially designed by personal trainers to meet various workout goals. The LCD display which this treadmill comes with is also quite important because it can show you things such as how many calories you have burned, how long you have ran for, or how fast you are going.

Value for money

When it comes to spending somewhere around 400 dollars, you really can’t go wrong by spending it on the ProForm Performance Treadmill. It has more than enough fitness programs to endlessly challenge you, it’s a great option for people of all ages and fitness levels, it’s quite durable, has a strong motor, a space saving design, and easy to control settings which all make it worth the investment.

Build quality

We can’t argue in terms of the build quality of the ProForm Performance 300i Treadmill. It has a solid design which makes it sturdy and stable, it has a ton of different features, it can go up to a good speed and it has a pretty steep incline to challenge you as well. Perhaps the best factor that makes this treadmill a quality find is the shock absorbing capabilities of it. All things considered, this treadmill will give you all of the quality you need to get a great workout.

Pros

  • Space saving design
  • Folds in half for easy storage
  • 2.0 CHP motor
  • Great shock absorbing capabilities
  • 8 different workout options
  • 0 to 10 mph & 12 percent incline

Cons

  • Not designed for fast running
  • Not ideal for very large people

Our Rating

While this is not the most expensive treadmill on the market, it still has more than enough features to give you a solid workout, plus it helps you save a ton of space, has various beneficial features, and won’t empty your wallet either.


Design

One of the most beneficial parts about the design of the Weslo Cadence Treadmill is that it features space saving capabilities. If you have a small home with little space to spare you will really appreciate the fact that this thing can fold in half so you can easily store it wherever you have the room for it.

Another thing that is great about this treadmill is that it has a very comfortable running surface thanks to the high amount of cushioning that it features. This treadmill also has 6 different preset workout programs which were all designed by personal trainers in order to give you the sweat inducing workout of your dreams. The Weslo Treadmill can go up to 12 miles per hour and also has 2 different incline settings to give you some variety and to suit your specific needs.

This treadmill also has an easy to navigate display with quick touch buttons so you can change the settings with nothing more than your fingertips. It even features 2 different handlebar positions so you can be comfortable while you exercise. It’s a very durable piece of equipment that will last you for a long time.

Value for money

With the Weslo you definitely get a great deal. It costs only slightly under 300 dollars, making it one of the most economical options on the market today. While it doesn’t have quite as many features as some of the other models out there, it still has more than enough options, power, and durability to give you a run for your money.

Build quality

For the price that this treadmill comes in at, you really can’t be disappointed with the quality. The several different options and settings, the solid construction, and the folding capability all make it a really good buy. Even though it is one of the cheapest models it doesn’t lack in terms of quality and will have you sweating for sure.

Pros

  • Folding capability for compact storage
  • Very affordable
  • Easy to navigate display
  • 6 different personal trainer designed workouts
  • 2 different incline settings
  • 0 to 12 mph

Cons

  • Hard to assemble
  • Bad company customer service
  • Walking belt wears out relatively quickly

Our Rating

Yet another fantastic choice in terms of the best treadmill is the ProGear High Capacity Treadmill. This thing definitely has a number of features which make it stand out from the rest of the pack, the least of which being the fact that it has a very high weight capacity and is extremely durable.


Design

Perhaps the best part about this particular treadmill is that it is made out of very solid materials, which makes it super heavy-duty and able to withstand even the harshest of punishment. This thing is extremely durable and is built to withstand a whole lot of weight, 400 pounds to be exact, making it one of the strongest treadmills out there.

Another thing which makes this treadmill ideal for people of all sizes and weights is the fact that it has an extra-large 40 by 20-inch walking belt, one which is specially designed to absorb as much impact as humanly possible.

Something else we really like about the ProGear High Capacity Treadmill is that it has extra-long safety handles that are 18 inches in length. This is a great feature because it provides a ton of safety for you while you exercise, especially if you aren’t used to exercising on a treadmill yet. The handles actually also have pulse sensors so you can keep track of your heart rate to let you know just how hard you are pushing yourself.

So you can keep track of your progress even more, this treadmill features an LCD display that displays things such as the time you have spent on the treadmill, how far you have gone, how many calories you have burned, and the speed which you’re going at as well.

Another thing that makes this a great treadmill is that it lets you easily control the speed which you walk at. This thing can go from 0 to 4 miles per hour, plus it increases in increments of 1/10 of a mile per hour to let you gradually increase your fitness level.

To increase your fitness level even more, you can also manually change the incline to 2 different levels. It’s also pretty convenient that the handlebars have easy control buttons on them. The final feature that makes this particular treadmill a great find is that it folds up so you can easily store it in a tight space.

Value for money

Considering the fact that you get one of the most durable treadmills around, spending somewhere around 400 bucks is a total bargain. The ProGear is definitely one of the strongest treadmills around, it’s great for walking and slow jogging, it’s very safe to use, and has a fantastic LCD display that lets you keep track of your progress.

Build quality

If there is one thing that we definitely cannot doubt about the ProGear High Capacity Treadmill is that it has a fantastic build. The quality of this treadmill is absolutely outstanding and that is thanks to the heavy-duty construction and the fact that it can withstand a maximum user weight of up to 400 pounds. Things like the LCD display, the safety handles, and the manually adjustable incline all serve to add to the quality of this piece of exercise equipment.

Pros

  • Max user weight capacity of 400 pounds
  • Excellent for walking and slow jogging
  • Features extra-long safety handles
  • Pulse monitoring and progress display
  • Fantastic LCD display
  • Manually adjustable incline

Cons

  • Not ideal for high fitness levels
  • Cannot go over 4 miles per hour

The Best Treadmills For Specific Needs

When it comes to your specific workout needs, there are always going to be some treadmills that are better to suit your needs and some that are worse. Let’s quickly go over which of the treadmills that we have talked about are the best for specific workout purposes and needs.

Best Treadmills For Running

When it comes to running, especially running fast and on a consistent basis, like if you are training for a marathon, you definitely want some durable and high-quality treadmills. Some of the best options to go with if you want a treadmill for running include the Sole F85, the ProFrom Pro 2000, and the Xterra Fitness Treadmill. All of these options are very durable, can go fast, go up to sharp inclines, and have motors which are more than strong enough to stand up to a strenuous running routine.

Best Treadmills For Walking

When looking for an ideal treadmill for walking or some light jogging, you should look for a treadmill that has good cushioning, a number of preset programs, and has good hand rails to hold onto for stability. A good treadmill for walking should also have a fairly large stepping area, and preferably have some speakers to keep you motivated while you walk along. Some of the best options to go with in terms of treadmills for walking include the ProGear High Capacity Treadmill, the ProForm Performance Treadmill, and the NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill, all of which are more than ideal for a leisurely walk or a light jog.

Best Treadmills For The Money You Spend / Best Value Treadmills

Yes, treadmills are fairly expensive, that is just a fact. However, you can definitely get some great value for the money that you spend. If you are looking for value, but not looking to spend too much money, you should go for a medium grade treadmill that combines quality factors with a decent price. Some of the best treadmills to get in terms of their monetary value include the Nautilus T614, the Schwinn 830, and the Xterra Fitness Treadmill. All 3 of these treadmills are high quality, durable, have a number of neat features and pre-programmed workout routines, and some even have some nifty things like built-in speakers too. These treadmills are not the cheapest nor are they the most expensive, but even though they aren’t the most expensive, they certainly do not sacrifice any quality.

Best Folding Treadmills / Best Compact Treadmills

Folding treadmills are quite convenient indeed. If you have a small home or just don’t want your treadmill to be out in the open when you aren’t using it, having one that can fold in half to make it compact and easy to store in a small area is definitely a bonus. Some of the best folding treadmills include the ProForm 2000, the 3G Cardio Treadmill, and the LifeSpan Folding Treadmill. Don’t worry, even though these options fold up for convenience, they have definitely not sacrificed any of their most important features and they are durable no doubt. They will have you working up a sweat and they won’t clutter up your home with workout equipment that you can’t store anywhere.

Conclusion

If you still aren’t convinced about treadmills, maybe you should just get on one and give it a go. They are some seriously awesome pieces of exercise equipment that will have you looking and feeling as fit and healthy as a horse.

The best treadmill for home is the one that suits you and your needs the best. Whether you need a treadmill for walking or running, or whether you want one that has the best value for the price, we would definitely recommend one of the 12 options that we have listed above. All of the treadmills above are made out of high-quality materials, they have a number of great features, and in our opinion, they are the best options for this year that you could ever hope to find.

If you have any questions or comments about treadmills, feel free to leave a comment and will get back to you as soon as humanly possible!