Let’s face it: With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which is the best treadmill for you. Luckily, I’m here to help. As a former NCAA D1 athlete who also played in the Women’s Premier Soccer League, I now test and review products like fitness equipment to help people find the best options on the market. Over the past four years, I’ve spent more than 150 hours testing and evaluating over 40 treadmills from brands like NordicTrack, Bowflex, Peloton and more. Many sweaty hours of running and training have led to the promised land of information: the best treadmills for home, including my top pick, the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750, which boasts exceptional quality and sturdiness.
When evaluating these treadmills, I considered variables like motor strength, deck size, warranty, programming, speed, incline/decline, extra features and so much more. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank or a treadmill with all the bells and whistles, I have you covered.
These are the eight treadmills that passed my tests with flying colors:
Best Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750
Best Treadmill Under $1,000: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT
Best Treadmill For Walking: Sole Fitness F80
Best Budget Treadmill: Urevo Strol Lite
Best Treadmill For Running: Landice L7
Best Treadmill For Incline: BowFlex Treadmill 10
Best Treadmill with Programming: Peloton Tread+
Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
Dimensions: 77.3 x 37 W x 59.5 inches| Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3% to 12% | Weight capacity: 400 pounds | Programs: iFIT | Warranty: lifetimemotor, 10 years for frame, 2 years for parts, 1 year for labor | Special features: Bluetooth headphone and heart rate connectivity, Google Maps integration
What’s notable: The 1750 has stellar iFit programming, a durable frame and incline plus decline. Oh, and did I mention the powerful 4.25 CHP motor? Swoon.
What could be better: The high step-up height and large footprint make this machine less compelling for folks with limited space or those with mobility issues.
Whether you’re a serious competitor who logs a lot of miles or a more casual walker who wants a high-quality machine that’ll last, you’ll appreciate the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750.
At $2,500, the 1750 is a mid-range option jam-packed with features that’ll suit a lot of people. I’ve spent a considerable amount of time on the 1750 (and have even tried the four previous iterations), and can confidently say it’s a very stable machine. You won’t notice any jostling or rocking while you run, and the well-cushioned deck provides relief from impact.
Competitive marathoner and triathlete Sheila Monaghan corroborates that the belt’s wideness lends to the machine’s overall stability, and makes using this machine “feel more like running outside.” The range of inclines adds to the “real road”-like feel, simulating hilly terrain with its incline variability; the machine can go from a 12% incline to a -3% decline (a rare and notable feature), mimicking a more realistic running experience. No other treadmill on this list matches or bests this incline variety other than the BowFlex Treadmill 10, which can go from 15% to -5% decline.
The 1750 actually has entertainment features I want to use, too: Its impressive 16-inch touchscreen allows you to easily view iFIT programming. And the variety in the iFIT workouts caters to everyone—from beginners to elite runners—while the Google Maps street-view integration is a fantastic touch for an immersive experience.
However, it is worth noting that iFIT membership is subscription-based, and currently costs $39 per month (or $15 per month for the lower tier). If you choose not to use iFIT, you won’t be able to fully utilize the features/benefits of having a screen on your treadmill. Without iFIT, you won’t be able to watch movies, TV or listen to music (as you cannot access these functions without the subscription).
If subscription-based programming isn’t important to you, the durable Horizon 7.0 AT has the same deck size and is $1,500 cheaper. However, the Horizon does have a lighter weight capacity at 325 pounds compared to the 400-pound limit of the 1750.
Likewise, the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1250 is also a little cheaper and shares a few of the same qualities as the 1750 in terms of foldability and iFIT technology, though its motor is slightly less powerful at 3.0 CHP. Still, if you value an extra-smooth ride with a bunch of added pluses and a solid warranty to boot, the Commercial 1750 is the way to go.
Dimensions: 76 x 35 x 67 inches | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0% to 15% | Weight capacity: 325 pounds | Programs: None | Warranty: Lifetime for both frame and motor, 3 years for parts, 1 year for labor | Special features: Bluetooth capability, intuitive thumb dials on handlebars
What’s notable: The Horizon 7.0’s price has stayed consistent at $1,000 for the past few years, yet it boasts excellent features like a steep incline angle, speed range, 60-inch deck and lifetime frame/motor warranty.
What could be better: If you’re looking for a touchscreen or integrated programming, the 7.0 won’t be your best option.
The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT packs a ton of value for its $1,000 price tag. Crank the speed up to 12 miles per hour (which is on-par with pricier models like the Landice L7 and the NordicTrack 1750), and you’ll notice just how sturdy the frame is.
In addition to its speed and incline controlled by thumb dials, this treadmill’s Bluetooth connectivity is useful: It allows you to use a tablet or phone to follow classes on platforms like Peloton, connect to training apps like Zwift or simply play music or movies. The 7.0 AT’s basic digital display, meanwhile, keeps your progress and important stats front and center, and a fast-charging USB port supplies juice to your devices.
Interactive programming isn’t the draw with the Horizon 7.0. However, this treadmill does feature eight different preset programs (including options for fat burning and hill climbing) that can be selected on the 7.25-inch LCD screen. For comparison, the Sole F80 features 10 pre-added programs (and is $700 more expensive) on a 10.1-inch touchscreen.
The max user weight of 325 pounds is above the industry standard of 300 pounds, although admittedly not by much. Still, the weight capacity and the roomy deck (20 x 60 inches is the gold standard for a comfortable deck for running) make it a good option for folks who are taller or slightly larger.
Although this treadmill can be (sort of) folded for easier storage, it’s best suited for a garage or home gym because of the size and weight. When I previously tested the 7.0, I attempted to bring the 332-pound box up a flight of stairs by myself. Naturally, I failed, and had to recruit two others for help. Even with help, I’d hesitate to move it up or down a flight of stairs again unless absolutely necessary.
When chatting with experts for this guide, David Siik, founder of Precision Run at Equinox and author of The Ultimate Treadmill Workout, mentioned that Horizon manufactures their equipment at state-of-the-art factories, using quality components. This means that you likely won’t be sacrificing quality for the price, and you can expect this machine to last for years—the frame and motor are backed by a lifetime warranty, after all.
Dimensions: 82.5 x 39 x 15 inches | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0% to 15% | Weight capacity: 350 pounds | Programs: Sole+ | Warranty: Lifetime warranty on motor and frame, 3 years for deck, 3 years for parts, 1 year for labor | Special features: Android-powered touchscreen, built-in entertainment apps, wireless charging pad
What’s notable: The wide and highly cushioned deck is great for long walks as well as taller people, and the incline variability is great for mimicking steep hikes.
What could be better: There’s no decline option, and the built-in display is on the small side.
Sure, you can technically walk on any treadmill, but the Sole Fitness F80 stands out for its slightly larger deck (22 inches wide compared to the 20 inches of the Horizon 7.0), which makes power walking extra comfortable. If you’ve ever walked on a particularly short treadmill deck, you’d know that the size makes a huge difference in your stride. This belt’s double-woven construction and its thicker cushioning also provides an extra-gentle experience on joints and makes it a game-changer for extended walking sessions.
The F80 has incline levels from 0 to 15%, similar to the Bowflex 10, NordicTrack 1750 and the Horizon 7.0 AT (although the Bowflex and NordicTrack do offer decline, too). This feature allows you to incorporate serious hill work into your routine, effectively transforming a simple walk into a true hike. Despite our preference for using it to walk, it’s still versatile for easy running and some interval training, with a powerful 3.5 CHP motor and a top speed of 12 miles per hour.
Sole recently made some updates to the latest edition of the F80. The only slightly negative change the brand made is the decreased weight capacity. Last year’s model had a 375-pound weight capacity, and this year’s is 350 pounds. Not a huge difference, but still interesting to note.
On the positive side, this is the first year that Sole has made their console a touchscreen, although it’s still on the smaller side at 10.1 inches. Previously, it was an LED screen. Sole has also expanded into fitness programming with the Sole+ App. And unlike Peloton or NordicTrack, Sole doesn’t charge for the app; it comes standard with each piece of cardio equipment.
Dimensions: 26.4 x 53.1 x 4.7 inches | Speed range: 0.5 to 7.6 mph | Incline range: N/A | Weight capacity: 265 pounds | Programs: N/A | Warranty: 2 years | Special features: Comes with remote to control speed
What’s notable: An inexpensive price tag (under $400) and easy stow-ability make this a good option for folks working with a small budget or limited space.
What could be better: The deck is particularly small on this treadmill, and the lack of incline and decline won’t work for serious athletes.
If you’re on a really tight budget, the Urevo Strol Lite Treadmill might be a good choice for you. At under $400, it’s by far the cheapest option in this guide (the second least expensive is the Horizon 7.0 AT at $1,000).
Besides the price, my favorite feature of this treadmill is how portable it is—the website states the Urevo weighs about 57 pounds. This makes it easy for a single able-bodied person to move, especially with the help of the front wheels. And if you want to store the Urevo under a bed or couch when it isn’t in use, you can thanks to the handlebar that folds down, making it completely flat. It’s an excellent choice for people who are tight on space or don’t want a treadmill to be out 24/7.
You can also fold down the handle and use the Urevo as an under-desk treadmill, or park it in front of the TV for some cozy cardio. With a maximum speed of 7.6 miles per hour, the Urevo is geared towards walking, and although you could technically jog or run on it, the deck is extremely small (17 x 42.5 inches), so I wouldn’t recommend it. And I should know; I actually did attempt to run on it, and found I spent more time focusing on not falling off the deck than the actual workout itself.
I like that you don’t have to stress about assembly, as the Urevo arrives at your door fully ready to go. Plus, the included remote allows you to change the speed when the handlebar is down (so don’t lose it) . All-in all, if you want an inexpensive, portable treadmill without too many extras, the Urevo is a great choice.
Dimensions: 35 x 76.5 x 60 inches| Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0% to 15% | Weight capacity: 400 pounds | Programs: N/A | Warranty: Lifetime parts, 1 year labor warranty, individual console warranties vary | Special features: USB port, variety of console options, orthopedic shock-absorbing deck
What’s notable: Sturdy and durable, the L7 can take a real beating, especially if you’re training for a race. There’s virtually zero shifting in the frame, even when sprinting. Plus, the handy buttons on the console make it simple to change your pace or incline.
What could be better: The starting price of the L7 is over $5,000, so unless you take advantage of financing, this treadmill could be out of budget.
Marathon training, anyone? Whether you’re gearing up to run 26.2 miles or just a quick two-miler, the Landice L7 delivers. The 4.0 CHP motor is powerful and can easily support day-after-day of serious running. I’m a big fan of the orthopedic running belt, which is designed to reduce impact on your joints. I had my ankle reconstructed after college, so this is a huge plus for me.
The L7 is a good choice for runners of all sizes because of its expansive deck and 400-pound weight capacity, which is 100 pounds over the industry standard. It’s also an incredibly stable machine, which is one of the most important criteria for a running treadmill.
If you choose to add on the 15.6-inch touchscreen during purchase, it’ll cost you an additional $300, but I think it’s worth it. Unlike treadmills from Bowflex or Peloton, you’re able to access entertainment apps such as Netflix and Spotify without paying an additional monthly subscription fee for programming. For example, Bowflex requires you to purchase monthly JRNY programming in order to access the Netflix app (and then there’s the monthly fee for Netflix, of course). Landice doesn’t shake you down for more money, hence why I think it’s worth the investment.
Landice is a brand that makes both commercial and residential cardio equipment, but the quality is evident in either line. But let me level with you: If you’re looking for an inexpensive treadmill, the L7 isn’t it. The cheapest customization option comes out to over $5,000, and adding all the bells and whistles (like the TV monitor) will run you upwards of $7,200. Luckily, qualified applicants can finance this treadmill, but it still might be out of reach for some. In that case, I’d suggest checking out the Horizon 7.0 AT for a reasonably priced (under $1,000) yet sturdy treadmill that you’ll have for years to come.
BowFlex Treadmill 10
Dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 inches | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -5% to 15% | Weight capacity: 400 pounds | Programs: JRNY | Warranty: 15 years for frame, 5 years for mechanical parts, 2 years for labor, 1 year for electronics | Special features: Bluetooth heart rate armband
What’s notable: The 15% incline to -5% decline is controlled with buttons on the handrail, and there’s ample storage space for your phone, towel or water bottle.
What could be better: For the price, the 10-inch touchscreen is underwhelming. Plus, at a whopping 323 pounds, this treadmill needs multiple people to move it up or down the stairs.
For incline workouts, the BowFlex Treadmill 10 is a great option. It features an excellent range of -5% to 15%, and can be configured to mimic real-world conditions. The only treadmill I know of that bests the Treadmill 10 is $3,500 (the NordicTrack X16) and features a -6% decline to a staggering 40% incline. However, as someone who has tried the X16, I don’t think that 40% is a realistic incline to hang onto for long periods of time. For the average exerciser, the range that the Bowflex 10 provides is plenty.
To note: The -5% decline on the Treadmill 10 bests other models on this list, including the Sole Fitness F80, Landice L7, and Peloton Tread+ (both of which offer 15% incline but can’t decline).
As capable as the BowFlex Treadmill 10 is, it’s a substantial piece of equipment best suited for a home gym or a dedicated workout space rather than a bedroom or office, with a weight of 323 pounds (and a large footprint). Its size is similar to that of a four-seater couch, making it pretty much impossible to tuck it in a corner to try and keep it out of sight. While the 10 does have a SoftDrop folding system that allows you to fold the treadmill in half fairly easily to save space, I still found it to be quite large even when folded.
As for cons: This was one of the harder treadmills to put together in my experience, and you may very well need another person to help you assemble it (whether a professional installer or just a very handy friend). It’s also got a smaller-than-average screen, both relative to its size and other contenders on this list, and that screen doesn’t tilt or swivel like the similarly priced NordicTrack Commercial 1750. Nevertheless, if top-notch sturdiness and serious incline are your main priorities, I think you’ll fall in love with the BowFlex Treadmill 10.
Dimensions: 75 x 36.5 x 72 inches | Speedrange: 0 to 12.5 mph | Incline range: 0% to 15% | Weight capacity: 300 pounds | Programs: Peloton | Warranty: 5 years for frame, motor, walking belt and rear safety guard; 1 year for touchscreen and most original components | Special features: All the Tread capabilities plus manual “free mode” run optionality
What’s notable: Peloton’s programming is sublime; you can take classes both on and off the treadmill with inspiring instructors who push you.
What could be better: The lack of decline and a warranty below the industry standard might give some folks pause before purchasing.
If I had to pick a fitness programming service to use the rest of my life, it would unquestionably be Peloton. During the pandemic, I used the Peloton app for a whopping year straight, so I have a firm grasp on the platform. In short, it’s excellent. The instructors are personable and motivating, and the music is always *chef’s kiss* (for example, there are Beyonce, Taylor Swift and Lil Wayne specific runs). And besides treadmill classes, you can enjoy pilates, HIIT and weight training with your $44 per month all-access membership.
The design features a whopping 67 inches of prime running real estate that’s grippy and cushy, and this bounciness gave me a real-road feel that surpassed all other contenders. In addition to its spacious deck, the Tread+ also has a bigger 32-inch touchscreen that’s wonderfully vibrant, and a 20-inch sound bar that’s punchy. Whether I took classes or ran easy while streaming movies or music, I was totally captivated.
With a maximum incline of 15%, this model adds 2.5% more grade than the standard Tread. Intuitive dials positioned on the handrails make it easy to adjust speed and incline without breaking your stride, perfect for speed workouts with shorter intervals.
The experts I spoke with, including running coach LoRe, also like that this model offers a more intense manual workout if you’re looking to build up leg strength: Unlike any of the other treadmills in this guide, you can switch off the motor and move the belt with the force of your feet in “Free Mode.”
You’ll see safety features that outdo other models I recommend, too: In addition to the same password-activated belt lock on the standard Tread, the Tread+ has a rear safety guard that detects movement or touching at the back of the machine and automatically stops the motor when triggered. These safety features were introduced in 2021 as a result of dozens of reported injuries and one child death, but the upgrades to the software and hardware have addressed the issue.
For such a big investment, I don’t love the short warranty period, nor the fact that the screen doesn’t swivel; it made it harder to take advantage of the wide library of strength and other non-running classes available on the Peloton platform. But if you have the budget for this piece of equipment and can overlook its size in favor of its many benefits, you’ll appreciate the experience the Tread+ provides.
Dimensions: 69.9 x 31.7 x 64.4 inches | Speed range: N/A | Incline range: N/A | Weightcapacity: 400 pounds | Programs: Assault Fitness University | Warranty: Lifetime belt warranty, 10-year frame, 3-year moving parts and 1-year labor | Special features: Bluetooth & ANT+
What’s notable: The AssaultRunner Elite is entirely user-powered, which means you can go as fast or slow as you want. Plus, the steel frame with corrosion-resistant hardware is akin to a cockroach: you won’t be able to destroy it no matter how hard you try.
What could be better: With great durability comes heavy weight (and a large footprint). This treadmill cannot be folded or compacted in any way, making it a no-go for those with limited space.
A manual treadmill doesn’t require a motor to power the belt, which means it’s entirely user-powered. This means you don’t have to look for a compatible outlet to plug your treadmill into, and studies say you’ll burn more calories than you would on a traditional machine. And as someone who has tried a ton of manual treadmills, the AssaultRunner Elite is the crème de la crème of the bunch.
The curved design allows you to simply lean forward to increase your speed, or lean back to decrease it. If you have a deep-seated fear of falling off the treadmill, this should placate that (since you’re in charge of how fast or slow you go).
Honestly, if I had to give another treadmill the best running treadmill superlative, it would be the AssaultRunner Elite (I only didn’t crown it the best overall because it is a manual, which isn’t for everyone). The deck reduces impact, and the slatted belt feels nice underfoot. Plus, when you run on the Elite, you don’t need to worry about stability. The steel frame and corrosion-resistant hardware keep this treadmill steady.
It likely goes without saying, but similarly to the Peloton Tread+, the AssaultRunner Elite cannot fold or resized to save space. This means you’ll need a dedicated space for it, like a garage or basement gym. The included transport wheels are handy for moving the Elite from room-to-room, but they don’t mean much if you have to lug it up or down stairs. And at almost 300 pounds, this treadmill requires professionals or two strong friends to help you move it.
Why You Can Trust The Treadmill Advice In This Guide
This story was written by Forbes Vetted contributor Caroline Lubinsky, with help from gear editor Cam Vigliotta. Seven experts with backgrounds in running and physical therapy were also interviewed.
The Forbes Vetted gear team is well-versed in all things fitness; we love evaluating products at the intersection of technology and personal health, whether you’re looking to add a treadmill to your home gym or incorporate safe pre-workout blends into your diet.
About The Authors
Forbes Vetted contributing writer Caroline Lubinsky has tested over 40 treadmills in the last four years. Lubinsky is a former NCAA D1 women’s college soccer player who previously spearheaded cardio content on behalf of other well-established fitness publications.
Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he spent extended periods working with the university’s locomotion research group. He considered his own experiences running on equipment from NordicTrack, BowFlex, Peloton and others to identify the best treadmills. In addition to his fitness background, Vigliotta has raced competitively for nearly a decade, participating in events ranging from 5Ks to ultramarathons.
About Our Expert Panel
In addition to our personal experience with fitness equipment, we interviewed multiple experts for their hands-on testing notes on several treadmills, including: Sheila Monaghan, a competitive marathoner and triathlete, and vice president of content and programming at Exos, a wellness and performance coaching company; David Siik, founder of Precision Run at Equinox and author of The Ultimate Treadmill Workout;marathoner and triathlete Tom Holland, who founded and owns Team Holland and has authored The Marathon Method; and Linda LoRe, head coach at the Mile High Run Club in New York City.
To gather treadmill buying advice, we also spoke to: Elizabeth “Corky” Corkum, a personal trainer and running coach in New York City; Stephen Marcotte, a workout design and experience manager at Orangetheory Fitness; and Craig Vitale, a triathlete, performance coach and CEO of Combine Training in Connecticut.
About Our Editing And Reviewing Process
Forbes Vetted editorial director Brinda Ayer reviewed the latest version of this story for accuracy, information flow and adherence to our style guide and editorial policies. She also provided input on product selections. Ayer is a seasoned runner who races all distances at a competitive level, and has completed three World Major marathons under the supervision of a professional coach.
Senior strategy editor Katie Simpson provided additional vetting for the products featured in this guide, ensuring we compared each model across key features that matter most to walkers and runners. Simpson is a certified personal trainer (CPT) with a lifelong passion for health and wellness.
We know fitness trends and technology can quickly become outdated; that’s why we reevaluate this guide regularly and update it as needed to ensure it contains accurate, insightful information. This story was last updated in October 2024 to answer more questions about the best treadmills for home. Content updates are overseen by Katie Simpson, CPT; and Forbes Vetted executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, who holds a degree in food and nutrition from Framingham State University plus a certificate in holistic nutrition consulting from the American College of Healthcare Sciences.
How We Chose And Tested The Best Treadmills
By combining extensive research, expert opinions and firsthand experience testing dozens of models, we’ve assembled a list of the best treadmills that cater to various needs and preferences, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for you. Here’s how we did it:
We compiled a list of models from reputable brands and compared the features of their best-selling equipment. To ensure our picks resonated with real users, we also considered the treadmills most popular among Forbes Vetted readers.
With our own topical experience, research and insights gleaned from interviewing experts in the running and fitness space, we developed a rubric outlining the ideal performance requirements and features for a top treadmill.
With this narrowed-down pool, we got to testing. Lubinsky and Vigliotta ran and walked for hours on treadmills at showrooms, hotels, gyms, apartment buildings and real-life homes. We also spent time with over 10 treadmills, while Vigliotta ran on the BowFlex Treadmill 10, NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750, NordicTrack Commercial Series 1250 and the Peloton Tread. Lubinsky tested all of the treadmills on this list.
We ran on each treadmill, assessing motor power, incline options, running surface, smoothness of the ride and added perks like touchscreen displays and Bluetooth connectivity. We also looked at how easy these machines were to assemble, use and store, and paid close attention to safety features.
When comparing treadmills, we considered motor power, running surface size and cushioning, incline and decline range, console features and connectivity, foldability and storage and overall build quality and durability. These factors helped us fairly evaluate treadmill models against one another to identify the best options for different needs.
In addition to firsthand testing by Lubinsky and Vigliotta, we gleaned testing insights from Forbes Vetted staffers with hands-on experience personally using a number of these treadmills, including senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone, executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, senior strategy analyst Catie Jaffe, audience development director Spencer Dukoff and executive editor Dave Johnson. Each of these staffers has diverse fitness backgrounds—some run regularly and participate in races, while others do so casually for general exercise and movement—and make up a well-rounded feedback pool. In some cases, these colleagues provided the testing imagery displayed in this article to show readers how the treadmills might live in their own spaces.
How To Choose A Treadmill
When buying a treadmill, it’s important to consider several key factors that ensure it meets your needs and fits in with your lifestyle. Here’s some advice on where to begin.
Set A Budget
Start by setting a budget to understand how much you’re willing to spend on a treadmill. These days, you can pick up a reliable, no-frills option for less than $500, or spend in excess of $5,000 on a model with lots of premium extras. The first step is to consider which features you absolutely need and which you can live without based on your lifestyle. Options like a wider running deck or extra-cushioned belt; a touchscreen display that lets you access live classes or stream media content; and a wide range of speed and incline levels may cost more.
Then, you’ll want to figure out how much you plan to use the machine—if you’re an avid runner who primarily trains indoors, a high-end treadmill may be worth the investment. “I tell anyone considering getting a treadmill to write down how much they think they will use the treadmill and then cut that number by about 30%—that is likely how much they will use their treadmill at home,” says Siik. “Then use that number to guide your budget.”
Evaluate Your Size And Space
Measure your workout space to understand how much room you have for a treadmill, and look for models that fall within these measurements. Keep in mind that some treadmills, like the Peloton Tread+, are difficult to move once installed; others are light or designed to fold in half to save space, like the UREVO.
Also consider the space you may need when running, both at more moderate and higher speeds. If you’re tall, you’ll want to look for equipment with a longer, wider running belt to accommodate your stride. And even if you’re on the short side, you might still like running on big, hefty machines, as they are less likely to shake or rattle at high speeds.
Consider Speed, Incline And Decline Needs
If you plan on doing interval or HIIT workouts that involve running at high speeds, or if you want to make your walks or runs more challenging with hill climbs, you’ll need a treadmill with advanced capabilities in these areas. Most people aren’t running at faster than 10 mph, so the 12 mph speed caps you’ll see on most models on this list should be just fine. Steep inclines of up to 15% are especially good for walkers who want to work up a bigger sweat as they exercise.
The Peloton Tread+ offers the fastest belt speed (12.5 mph) among the models we tested, while many options in this guide, including the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT and BowFlex Treadmill 10, offer gradients of up to 15%. Only a small handful of treadmills we researched and tested offered declines (namely the BowFlex Treadmill 10 and NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750), which is a great feature for simulating real-road conditions with uphills and downhills.
Check Available Programs
Many treadmills come with built-in workouts and optional memberships to programs like iFit, JRNY, Peloton and Echelon United. These programs provide access to live and on-demand fitness classes. Before deciding on a treadmill, consider your exercise routine and budget to determine if a membership is necessary and if so, which one seems most appealing.
We also recommend keeping in mind the ongoing cost of these subscriptions. If the entire reason you’re getting a certain treadmill is for the programming, make sure the monthly or yearly fee is doable for you.
Weigh The Importance Of Additional Features
Today’s treadmills offer all kinds of additional features, including touchscreen displays, built-in workout programs, Bluetooth connectivity and apps that allow you to stream your favorite content. It almost goes without saying: Before you spring for an expensive treadmill with tons of bells and whistles, consider which of these amenities you will actually use. If you’d benefit from extra motivation, for example, some of the entertainment features that these treadmills offer can be enormously helpful. That said, many of the runners we spoke with, including Monaghan, stick with basic entertainment needs.
Treadmill Best Practices
For a workout that’s both safe and effective, these are the following best practices to keep in mind:
Wear The Right Shoes
Whether you’re walking, jogging or running, it’s important to wear comfortable footwear that provides adequate traction and stability. Look for tread patterns on the soles of your shoes, which helps the shoe grip different surfaces.
For stability, look for ample cushioning in the midsole with a deep heel cup that maintains neutral alignment between your foot and ankle. If your running shoes have seen better days, check out our guides to the best running shoes for women and running shoes for men.
Don’t Skip Warm-Up
We recommend warming up before your workout for 5 to 10 minutes at a low speed—think 2.5 to 3.0 mph—to prevent injuries and cramps. This helps loosen up your muscles, which is crucial to do before engaging in moderate to high-intensity exercise.
Maintain Good Posture
Whether you’re walking or running, be sure to keep your head up, shoulders back and arms relaxed, positioned around waist level. Movements should feel natural, and your body should remain loose and tension-free from head to toe.
Good posture is critical to preventing injury (and for better breathing while running). If you’re hunched over like a shrimp on the treadmill, you’re not allowing your lungs to fully expand and take in air. And when your lungs aren’t getting enough air, neither are your muscles (which makes your workouts feel extra challenging).
Care And Maintenance
It may seem silly to clean your treadmill, but trust us, it’s not. When a treadmill isn’t properly maintained, the belt may not run optimally, leading to preventable malfunctions.
Wipe down your treadmill with a soft and absorbent cloth after each use, so no sweat gets left behind. For heavier-duty jobs, use a cleaning solution that’s appropriate for gym equipment to keep your treadmill free of dirt and debris.
Other Treadmills We Considered
We researched and tested over 50 different treadmills, but only nine made the final cut. However, a few options came close to making our list.
Pro-Form Carbon TLX: At $999, there’s a lot to like about this treadmill in terms of value for the money. However, it’s not quite as capable as the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT: it doesn’t offer as much incline and it isn’t capable of supporting as much weight. The 7.0 AT also features easy-to-use dial controls to change speed and incline whereas the Carbon TLX uses traditional buttons.
NordicTrack EXP10i: True to NordicTrack’s reputation, this treadmill is a great pick for folks looking for a durable and well-made treadmill. While it retails for nearly the same price as the Commercial Series 1250, it has a more limited incline range. Its screen also doesn’t tilt and pivot unlike most of the treadmills on our list, so your training is limited to what you can do on the machine (no stretching or strength training).
Wahoo KICKR RUN: This new release from cycling brand Wahoo is intriguing. It features incline plus decline, a ‘run free’ feature (which allows runners to change their pace hands free), and a continuous belt surface. However, it’s $5,000, and doesn’t come with the option to add a monitor or screen (you’re expected to hook up your phone or tablet to the treadmill).
Latest Treadmill News
We monitor the latest developments in the fitness equipment industry so we can provide the most relevant recommendations and buying advice. Below, we rounded up some of the most recent headlines from the top treadmill and fitness brands.
Johnson Health Tech, which owns Horizon Fitness and Matrix, purchased Bowflex and Schwinn Fitness, as well as the JRNY fitness platform.
Boxflex and Horizon treadmills, including the two Boxflex and Horizon models on our list—the BowFlex Treadmill 10 and the Horizon Fitness 7.o AT—now have Apple Watch connectivity. You can now connect your Apple Watch with the treadmill to sync your progress, including heart rate, active and total calories, speed, distance, pace and incline from the treadmill.
Lever Movement released the new Lever Go+ Scale, which is designed to reduce your body weight up to 45 pounds. This is a great tool for athletes with performance goals and those recovering from injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Treadmill Brand Is Best?
The best treadmill brands are reliable with a proven track record for building safe, durable machines. These include NordicTrack, Boxflex, Peloton, Horizon Fitness and Sole Fitness, all of which we’ve featured in this guide, as well as others like ProForm (a sister brand of NordicTrack) and LifeSpan Fitness.
With powerful motors and attentive customer support, these brands offer a range of options to suit different users, from casual walkers to competitive runners.
How Long Does A Treadmill Last?
Treadmills typically last around 10 years when properly maintained. Other factors like how often you’re using it, how much you weigh and the quality of the construction also play a role in how long your treadmill will last.
Is It Worth Getting A Treadmill For Home?
Yes, a treadmill is absolutely worth it if you are looking for a way to get a solid workout in from home. Treadmills can help increase your daily step count, improve your cardiovascular health and provide an effective indoor workout when outdoor exercise becomes difficult. Keep in mind that it is an investment and takes up a considerable amount of space, so if you don’t plan on regularly using it, you may want to start with a less expensive alternative, like a walking pad.