Treadmill Buying Guide

Last updated: August 2016

Exercise can feel like a chore. And inclement weather, or having to travel to the gym, can derail your best intentions. But there’s a way to make working out more convenient without leaving home—starting with a treadmill.

Of Americans who exercise, two-thirds get fit at home. To keep pace, treadmill manufacturers are producing better and smarter machines. But innovation isn’t cheap: A top-rated treadmill can cost a steep $4,000 and up. Fortunately, if you’re willing to make some tradeoffs, you can find some great top-end features on less expensive models.

Choosing the Right Machine

First, think about your fitness objectives. Whether it’s enhanced athletic performance, general health and fitness, or rehabilitation, knowing how you will use your treadmill can help you identify which model to buy.

Next, consider budget. Investing in a more-expensive machine gets you sturdier construction, a longer parts warranty, a larger running surface, higher top speed, and steeper incline. But if your goals don’t require the latest and greatest, you may be able to choose a less expensive model.

Keep in mind:
• Size. Most treadmills have a similar footprint, on average 77 inches long by 35 inches wide. A folding treadmill will be half its length when stored. You'll need adequate empty space around the treadmill for access and safety.
• Ergonomics. If you’re a runner, you will need a deck length that accommodates your stride. Consider how comfortable you are on the machine while walking or running. Choose a model that appeals to you ergonomically and aesthetically.
• High-tech features. Docks for iPods, USB ports, and wireless Internet connectivity are standard features on many treadmills.
• Adjustability. Most treadmills have top speeds between 10 and 12 mph; some will go faster. They typically incline between a 10 to 15 percent grade, but some offer an increased gradient.

Drawing of a man running on a treadmill. Picture is from overhead.

Illustration: Chris Philpot

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Before Buying a Treadmill

It’s essential to try out a treadmill in person. Here's our try-before-you-buy checklist:

• Does the cushioning and shock absorption of the running deck feel comfortable?

• When you walk or run, do your feet hit the motor housing?

• Can you easily straddle the deck when standing on the side rails?

• Is the display monitor easy to read?

• Are the controls easy to reach and operate?

Once you've narrowed down your choices, here are some other things to consider before making the purchase.

Treadmills are heavy, so ask about delivery. Check whether assembly, tricky even for experienced DIYers, is included or available at an additional cost.

When it comes to the warranty, look for three to seven years of coverage on parts, and at least one year on labor. Most treadmills have a lifetime warranty on the frame, and you should get that for the motor as well.

And what about returns? Confirm the store’s return policy. Even if they will take back the treadmill, you might have to pay for the store to retrieve it, as well as for restocking fees. If you purchase online, find out how return shipping is handled.

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Interactive Video Buying Guide

For more, watch our interactive video below. You can skip to different chapters on styles, fitness, key features, and other must-know topics.

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Treadmill Types

Motorized treadmills are based on the same fundamental design premise: A moving belt, powered by an electric motor. But because they come in a range of prices, with varying features and designs, we have subdivided treadmills here according to price, and whether or not they can be folded.

Budget Folding Treadmills

These models can have a shorter running belt, which may be sufficient for walkers. They include a display for speed, distance, time, and calories burned, as well as a shelf with water-bottle holders. These models typically do not include a chest strap heart-rate monitor or heart-rate control programs.

Pros: If walking is your primary exercise, lower-priced models should suffice.

Cons: Budget models are built from lighter materials, tend to feel less stable, and their decks might be too short for a runner's stride.

Folding Treadmills

Generally, these models will provide additional features to the budget folding models, along with more exercise programs, including heart-rate controlled setups. Some have a chest strap heart-rate monitor.

Pros: Sturdier construction makes these treadmills better suited for occasional running.

Cons: The deck on many models may still be too short for runners with a longer stride.

Non-Folding Treadmills

These treadmills offer a sturdier deck and frame, a longer running belt, and larger running surfaces.

Pros: The best choice for frequent runners, and constructed of heavier, more robust materials. Integrated heart-rate control programs, higher max speeds, and steeper max inclines are typical. They are rated for heavier people and come with the longest warranties.

Cons: It may seem odd, but these pricey models tend to have fewer built-in programs. When every square foot counts, space considerations are non-negotiable.

Treadmill Features

Treadmill makers look for ways to make exercise less monotonous and more interesting. Your task: Decide which features you need, without paying for options you don't care about.

For example, consider your training style. Do you need to be distracted from your workout, or do you enjoy planning your fitness regimen and creating physical challenges? If it's the former, entertainment features and automated programs might take priority. Otherwise, features such as max speed, incline settings, heart-rate monitoring, and interval programs should take precedence.

Remember, a treadmill is merely a tool to make strides toward your cardio-fitness and health goals. Keep those objectives in mind to help identify features that are important to you.

A close shot of a built-in exercise program for weight loss.

Built-In Exercise Programs

This useful feature can automatically vary the intensity of your workout by changing the speed or incline. You also can make adjustments manually. Exercise programs can be an antidote to boredom and may encourage you to stick with your exercise routine.

Heart-Rate Monitor

A chest-strap heart-rate monitor is typically not included with treadmills that cost less than $1,000. All treadmills usually have a handgrip heart-rate monitor. A heart-rate monitor helps you track the intensity of your exercise. A chest-strap monitor is convenient, can give you a more accurate and consistent reading, and allows you to continually monitor your heart rate without having to reach for the handgrip sensors.

Screen display and controls on a treadmill console.

Controls and Console Gadgets

Look for well-labeled, intuitive controls: up/down buttons, quick one-touch speed and incline buttons, and large, easy-to-read displays that show multiple functions (time, speed, heart rate, incline) at once. Avoid models with poorly designed controls and displays.

A growing number of manufacturers load the treadmill console with gadgets such as speakers, a fan, and even an LCD TV. If they need repair, having them serviced can be a problem. You might be able to buy these items separately for less than if they are bundled in one machine.

A persn holding the tether safety key on a treadmill.

Tethered Safety Key

All models have a safety key. You need to insert a key into the console to start the treadmill. The key comes attached to a long cord, with a clip to attach to your clothing. If you were to slip and fall, the cord will pull out the key and stop the treadmill belt. The cord should be short enough to disengage the key if you are near the end of the running belt. It can also be removed and stored separately to keep children from accidentally starting the machine.

a person using the hand rails on a treadmill.

Hand and Foot Rails

Most treadmills have hand rails at the front and on the sides. Padding is a plus. While hand rails can be useful for those needing extra stability, make sure the rails don’t impede your natural arm motion during exercise. Look for wide and flat foot rails alongside the moving belt. Ample foot rails make it easier to get on and off the treadmill.

Motor Housing

The treadmill’s motor housing should be set far enough forward so that it doesn't get in the way of your feet when you're exercising. A concave shape to the motor housing that tapers to the front of the belt is ideal.

A person looking at a mobile app on their phone that is connected to their treadmill.

Mobile App Connectivity

Some treadmills can access the Internet, allowing you to hit the virtual trail via Google Maps, or to create a personalized track meet, while other models use mobile apps and have touch-screen displays. Consider the mobile apps or connected functionality that expand the capability of your treadmill and allow you to track your workout history. Be aware of the "terms of use" describing how the manufacturer can use your personal data.

Horizon Fitness Landice Life Fitness LifeSpan NordicTrack Precor Proform Spirit True Other Brands

Horizon Fitness is based in Cottage Grove, Wis. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Available in sporting-goods stores and online, its treadmills range in price from $800 to $2,500.

Based in Randolph, N.J., Landice makes mid- to high-end treadmills and ellipticals for the home and the commercial market. Available in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $2,500 to $5,500.

Life Fitness home treadmills are available at specialty fitness retailers and through its online store. Treadmills range in price from $2,000 to $7,000.

LifeSpan Fitness products are manufactured by Health and Fitness, which is based in Park City, Utah. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $900 to $3,500.

Part of the Icon Fitness group, which is one of the largest manufacturers of fitness equipment in the world. NordicTrack offers a variety of other exercise products, including ellipticals, exercise bikes, and steppers. Treadmills range in price from $900 to $3,000.

Precor is part of the Finland-based Amer Sports Corporation. Its treadmills can be purchased nationwide at specialty fitness stores. Prices range from $2,500 to $7,000.

Made by Icon Fitness, Proform offers exercise equipment at lower price points than most other manufacturers. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmill prices range from less than $1,000 to $2,000.

Owned by Taiwan-based Dyaco International, Spirit has been in existence for more than 25 years. Its treadmills are sold nationwide in specialty fitness stores. Prices are in the $2,000-and-below range.

Based in St. Louis, True’s product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $2,200 to $6,000.

Other brands of note: Smooth Fitness, Sole Treadmill, Vision Fitness, Weslo, and Yowza.

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