Best Treadmill for Heavy People: 5 High-Quality Cardio Machines for Secure Support

Fitness shouldn’t be reserved for the traditionally thin influencers you may be used to seeing all over TikTok or Instagram. In fact, at GGR, we think fitness is for everyone, and it can make a huge difference in your life. Studies¹ have even shown that exercise can contribute to increased life satisfaction and happiness.

Whether you’re looking to lose weight or just reap some of the mental health benefits, you deserve to move your body in a way that feels good. If walking or running is a part of this journey for you, GGR can help. We’ve found the best treadmill for heavy people so you can crush your goals––whatever they may be.

The GGR team is a group of fitness enthusiasts who believe fitness is for all people and bodies. Whether you’re an advanced athlete or a beginner who has never stepped foot on a treadmill in your life, you deserve to enjoy movement. And, with a qualified group of people at the helm, we won’t steer you in the wrong direction. After all, we’re certified personal trainers, former college athletes, and nutrition coaches. This is what we do best, and we’re excited to share our knowledge (and top picks) with you.

5 Best Treadmills for Heavy People in 2024

• Best Overall Treadmill for Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 
• Best Durable Treadmill for Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
• Best High-Capacity Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F80
• Best Treadmill for Heavy Walkers: XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill
• Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Programming: Peloton Tread

Best Overall Treadmill for Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT

Good for: Someone who needs a treadmill that will fold when it isn’t in use

Best Overall

Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.42

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Product Highlights

• 60-inch running deck
• Deck cushioning
• 375 maximum user weight limit
• Powerful rapid sync motor
• Top speeds of 12 mph
• Incline training up to 15%
• Quick-dial controls
• Compatible with popular fitness apps

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Stream various fitness platforms
• No subscription required
• Dial controls are great for interval training
• Larger running deck
• Highly-responsive motor
• Financing options
• Lifetime warranty on frame and motor

Cons

• Weighs 330 lbs, so not easily portable
• While you can sync with external apps, the 7.8 AT requires a smart device to provide touchscreen content, videos or online classes

Bottom Line

The Horizon 7.8 AT is an impressive treadmill suited for serious runners and newbies alike. With access to popular fitness apps and no required subscription, it may be attractive to those who don’t want to be locked into one platform.

Need a foldable treadmill that can still support your weight? Check out the Horizon 7.8 AT treadmill. This well-made machine has a weight capacity of 375 pounds, which is 75 pounds more than the industry average. The 7.8 is also extremely easy to fold, thanks to the soft-drop gas shock located underneath the deck.

Speaking of the deck, the majority of people will have ample room to run and walk. The 22-inch-by-60-inch deck is large enough for all of the activities. And if you need a little guidance on workouts? You can easily sync the 7.8 to programming like Peloton, Nike Run Club, or Zwift thanks to Bluetooth connectivity.

It’s also worth noting that this machine has easy-to-use quick select buttons, which allow the user to change their speed or incline in a flash. If you’re someone who enjoys HIIT, this handy feature will especially appeal to you.

Although I believe knowing the motor horsepower of a treadmill is important, Horizon doesn’t share this information with the consumer. I don’t know the exact horsepower of the motor, but I have been on the 7.8 and feel that it is powerful enough for most people. 

Take a look at the entire Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill review. 

Best Durable Treadmill For Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

Good for: Someone who doesn’t mind splurging on a really sturdy treadmill

Best Durable

NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.4

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Product Highlights

• 22” tilt and pivot HD touchscreen
• ActivePulse technology and Google Maps™
• -3% decline and 15% incline
• iFIT-compatible 
• Foldable frame

Pros & Cons

Pros

• -Sleek look
• -The 22” x 60” running surface is a good size for most users
• -Tilt and pivot HD screen
• -Folds when not in use

Cons

• -Heavy, hard to move
• -Not fully functional without iFIT

Bottom Line

The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 treadmill has all the bells and whistles you might want and is easy to fold to save space when you are done using it.

Although the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is a nearly $3,000 machine, you get what you pay for. With a 400-pound user weight capacity, a 3.6 CHP motor, and a more than 300-pound weight, this machine is super stable for walking and running for many users and will provide a smooth in-use experience. 

Lindsay Scheele, GGR’s expert product tester, said that she didn’t notice any wobbling or shaking when she was running at one of the higher speeds. She noted that it even felt sturdy when she ran at a 5% incline. This treadmill also features a 3% decline functionality as well, which is less common. Overall, Lindsay likes this treadmill and its features so much that she rated it a 5 out of 5 for general workout experience.

This NordicTrack treadmill is compatible with iFIT programming via Bluetooth connectivity, and a 30-day iFIT trial is included with purchase. If you’re not interested in that, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 does have Google Maps workout technology as well, but there are no other built-in programs. As you can read about in our iFIT reviews, we think this is one of the best fitness programming options out there, so we give the NordicTrack 2450 a 5 out of 5 in the programming department. 

Even though this treadmill is on the heavier and larger side, we do appreciate that it is foldable so you can flip the deck up when it’s not in use. There are even wheels on the front stabilizers so once it’s folded, you can move it around your space fairly easily. This frees up space for other home exercise equipment. Because of these features, it earned a rating of 4 out of 5 for portability.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that this machine is not a walk in the park to assemble—we rated it a 2.5 out of 5 in this category. There are a lot of screws, bolts, and small parts to deal with. You can read more about this process, and more details about this machine, in our NordicTrack Commercial 2450 review.  

Best High-Capacity Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F80

Good for: Someone on the hunt for a mid-range machine that provides great value

Best High-Capacity

Sole F80 Treadmill

Community Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Foldable design
• 3.5 HP motor
• 12 mph max speed
• Incline training up to 15%
• 60" L x 22" W running deck
• 350 lb weight capacity
• Lifetime frame and motor warranty

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3.5 HP motor supports heavy running
• Extended running surface measuring 60 inches by 22 inches
• Incline ranging 0% to 15%
• Weight capacity of 350 lbs
• 4 transport wheels (most folding treadmills have 2)
• Integrated Bluetooth speakers
• USB port
• Tablet holder
• Armrest controls
• Lifetime warranty on frame and motor
• Low step-up height

Cons

• Users report cushioning not as shock absorbing as others
• Small and basic display

Bottom Line

What the Sole F80 lacks in technology, it more than makes up for in durability and performance. With a 3.5 horsepower motor and a 60 inch long running deck, the Sole F80 is a great option for dedicated endurance athletes.

The Sole F80 is an impressive treadmill that has a lot going for it. This durable cardio machine has a 375-pound user weight capacity, which is 75 pounds more than the industry standard. Plus, with a 3.5 CHP motor, the F80 is able to support a variety of sustained cardio. Similarly to the weight capacity, this motor is slightly more substantial than the 3.0 CHP we’d expect to see on the average treadmill. Because of the great features of this treadmill we think it deserves a 4-out-of-5 rating in value. 

The motor and weight capacity aren’t the only things to like about the F80. You’ll also get a lengthy 22-inch-by-60-inch deck, which is good for those who need more width on their treadmill or those who have longer strides. The deck is also cushioned, which makes it easier on your joints than running on pavement so you can amp up your walking or running volume with more peace of mind. While GGR expert product tester Lindsay Scheele didn’t notice a ton of difference in how running felt on her joints, she did feel like the machine was durable. We rate it a 4 out of 5 in the durability department. 

While you won’t be able to stow this treadmill away in a closet or under your bed, this 278-pound machine does have folding capabilities. It also comes equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen on which you can take advantage of the Sole programming app, called Studio, for an extra monthly fee. Lindsay says this programming would be good for a beginner. 

Lindsay was impressed with her experience on the treadmill. She said the wireless charging station was a standout feature and she also appreciated the fans. She gave it a rating of 4.5 out of 5 for overall workout experience. 

The warranty on the F80 is lifetime for the frame, deck, and motor, which is really stellar. However, the $2,000 price does reflect all of these wonderful features. Check out our full Sole F80 review for the inside scoop.

Best Treadmill for Heavy Walkers: XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill

Good for: Heavier individuals who want a treadmill to walk on

Best for Heavy Walkers

XTERRA TRX3500 Treadmill

GGR Score: 3.54

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Product Highlights

• 30 preset workout programs 
• Built-in Bluetooth connectivity
• Handlebar speed and incline controls
• Dual cup holders

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Foldable for easy storage
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Transportation wheels
• 350-lb user weight capacity

Cons

• Small LCD blue backlit monitor (no touchscreen)
• Customer reviews say it can be noisy
• Less incline capability than other similar models

Bottom Line

The TRX3500 Treadmill is an affordable at-home treadmill that most anyone can use. It comes with features like 30 preset workout programs, Bluetooth connectivity, and more.

If you’re interested in a reasonably priced treadmill to use for walking, the XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 is a great option. This foldable treadmill has a 350-pound user weight capacity and a 20-inch-by-60 inch deck, which is ideal for heavier people.

The 3.0 CHP motor is powerful enough for heavier people who want to mostly walk or jog on their treadmill. You’ll also enjoy a comfortable belt, as the cushioning on the TRX3500 is definitely above average.

You’ll also get stellar lifetime frame and motor warranties, which are very good for the TRX3500’s $1,300 price tag. Plus, you won’t have to worry about paying for interactive programming subscriptions (unless you want to) since the TRX3500 has 30 preset programs available right on the display.

You should be aware that the step-up height on this machine is high at 7.75 inches. If you’re someone who has balance issues, the TRX3500 may not be the best option for you. 

Check out our full XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 treadmill review.

Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Programming: Peloton Tread

Good for: Those who like a boutique class experience from home 

Best With Programming

Peloton Tread

GGR Score: 3.74

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Product Highlights

• Powerful 3.0 CHP motor
• Carbon steel construction
• Top speeds of 12.5 MPH
• 23.5" HD touchscreen display
• Incline training
• Non-folding
• Live and on-demand classes

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Interactive, responsive HD touchscreen display
• Access to thousands of workouts via Peloton
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Front speakers and rear woofers for great sound
• Big range of speed and incline
• Carbon steel frame
• Intuitive controls
• Red line centered on running deck ensures good running mechanics
• Sleek design
• Improved safety features: Tread lock, emergency stop button, stop-sensor technology in belt and a safety key

Cons

• Disappointing warranty
• No decline
• No pre-programmed workout so need to purchase membership to Peloton
• Expensive
• Heavy
• Smaller console
• Minimal cushioning
• No cooling fans (not a deal breaker but it would be nice)
• Smaller running deck compared to similarly priced treadmills

Bottom Line

After several recalls back in 2021, Peloton recently released this new treadmill, the Peloton Tread, with improved safety measures. Perhaps best known for its wide range of live and on-demand classes, the Peloton Tread is a fantastic way to train indoors and stay motivated.  The easy-to-use, interactive touchscreen provides access to a library of workouts and leaderboards that truly brings training to a new level.Powered by a 3.0 horsepower motor, the Tread reaches speeds up to 12.5 mph and inclines up to 12.5%; impressive numbers by any standard. Constructed from carbon steel, the Tread has a sleek, compact design that is as sturdy as it is attractive. While the price tag is steep, it could be a worthwhile investment for your home gym if it fits your budget.

If you’re looking for a treadmill that will help you avoid boredom while you’re working out, the Peloton Tread is a great option. While this treadmill won’t accommodate users over 300 pounds or those taller than 6 foot, 4 inches, it will provide you with plenty of entertainment when in use. 

If you’re familiar with the Peloton brand (honestly, who isn’t?), you’ve probably heard the hype around their online training programs. Peloton offers interactive programs as well as on-demand classes so you have the option for a sense of accountability if that’s something that excites you. This treadmill also has a 23.5-inch HD touchscreen display, which will help you feel fully immersed in the variety of available classes.

In terms of programming, when choosing your workout program the system will guide you through any selections you need to make, which makes the process easy. Lindsay Scheele, CPT and GGR Everything lead reviewer, said, “I’m pretty confident that my eight-year-old could figure it out.” We rated the Peloton Tread a 5 out of 5 for both programming and tech capabilities. 

The programming options on this treadmill are awesome, but you’ll pay extra for them. To access the programming on the tread, you’ll need to pay $44 per month for the Peloton subscription. On the plus side, the programming is good for more than just the treadmill—you can try out the other Peloton programming as well, like yoga and strength workouts. You can even sync up your Apple Watch if you have one. We love workout data, so having Peloton programming plus Apple Watch syncing capabilities is a beautiful marriage. 

We like the bells and whistles this treadmill has to offer, but the nearly $3,000 price tag might not be appealing to some users. Luckily, Peloton offers financing in case you don’t want to pay it all up front. It’s worth noting that the price does include professional assembly and shipping. This machine does have a lot of great features, so we’re rating it a 4 out of 5 in value. 

Check out our full Peloton Tread review for a deeper dive. 

Other Treadmills We Researched and Tried

We’ve reviewed a ton of treadmills, and these are a few of of our favorites: 

• Best Treadmills For Bad Knees
• Best Treadmills For Walking
• Best Commercial Treadmill
• Best Treadmill For Tall Runners
• Best IFIT Treadmill
• Best Treadmill For Seniors

How We Picked and Tested

We asked ourselves these questions before adding any heavy-duty treadmills to our list:

• Weight capacity: What is the weight limit on this treadmill? Is it higher than the industry standard of 300 pounds?
• Motor horsepower: What is the motor horsepower of the treadmill? Is it higher or lower than a 3.0 horsepower motor?
• Running deck size: What are the dimensions of the running belt? Would this treadmill work best for someone who is tall, short, or somewhere in between? Does it have a wide running surface for those who have a wider waist?
• Belt: Is the tread belt well-cushioned? Is it a shock-absorbing deck?
• Brand: What brand is this machine? Is it NordicTrack, Sole Fitness, Amazon, Exerpeutic, ProForm, Bowflex, Lifespan Fitness, Sunny Health & Fitness or something else?
• Price: Is this a budget treadmill? If not, is it mid-range or high-end?
• Dimensions: What are the dimensions of the treadmill? Does it have a large or small footprint? Will it fit in a compact space or only in a dedicated home gym?
• Technology: What technology features does the treadmill have? Does it have Bluetooth connectivity, Google Maps, an AUX cord, or something else?
• Display: What type of display does this machine have? Is it an HD touchscreen, backlit LED or LCD display?
• Top speed: What is the speed range for this treadmill? Is it at least 10 to 12 miles per hour?
• Incline level: Are there any incline or decline options on this treadmill?
• Programming: Is any type of interactive programming or fitness app (like iFIT or JRNY) compatible with this treadmill? Can you view the programming on the display or do you need to use your own device? Are there any preset workout programs on the machine?
• Extras: Does this machine have extras like a tablet holder, accessories holder, or bottle holder?
• Foldable: Is the treadmill foldable or is it non-folding?
• Machine weight: How heavy is the treadmill? Could one person move it by themselves or do you need another set of hands?

Benefits of Treadmills for Heavy People

Don’t just take it from me––certified personal trainer (and GGR writer) Anthony O’Reilly also thinks treadmills can be a great tool for overweight people.

“As a former heavy person, I can say that walking is one of the best ways to burn calories,” Anthony explained. “Think about it—it takes more gas to push a heavy car than a lighter one, so a heavy person burns more calories walking a mile on a treadmill than a lighter person. Treadmills can be an effective way to get that cardio workout in at any time, especially since they’re low-impact and don’t cause too much stress to people’s joints.”

Treadmills can also be a good tool for heavy people because you’re able to control your own intensity. If you need to go a bit slower, you can simply switch the settings to customize your own workout. 

Another benefit to having a treadmill? The ability to workout in your home. If you’re constantly pressed for time, a treadmill in your home can be a simple way to eliminate any excuses.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Good Treadmills for Heavy People

Before shopping for a quality treadmill, here are the top three things to keep in mind for heavy users:

High Weight Capacity

If you’re a heavier person, it is important to find a machine that will support your weight. Just for reference, the average user weight capacity for a treadmill is 300 pounds. However, there are plenty of machines that can support higher weights, you’ll just need to pay close attention to the specs. 

Unfortunately, heavier people will need heavy-duty options, which frequently cost more. I recommend utilizing treadmill coupons or financing options in order to keep the cost down.

Powerful Motor

The more powerful your treadmill’s motor is, the more support you’ll have during your workout. Make sure your treadmill’s motor is at least 3.0 CHP or greater for the best experience possible. This way, your machine will be equipped to support sustained workouts of all types no matter what you’re doing.

Adequate Deck Space

If you’re a heavier person, chances are your dimensions are wider. If this is the case, you want to make sure your treadmill can support your body comfortably. You don’t need to be distracted by the handrails rubbing against your waist during your workout! Make sure the width of your treadmill deck corresponds to your size in order to have a better experience while walking or running. 

Warranty

Make sure the treadmill has a good warranty that lasts for around five years, at minimum, for the frame and motor. These are the most important parts of the treadmills and the most expensive to fix, so it’s worthwhile to ensure you have good coverage.

Price

This should go without saying, but make sure the treadmill is within your price range.

Best Treadmills for Heavy People FAQs

References 

1. An HY, Chen W, Wang CW, Yang HF, Huang WT, Fan SY. The Relationships between Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction and Happiness among Young, Middle-Aged, and Older Adults. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Jul 4;17(13):4817. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17134817. PMID: 32635457; PMCID: PMC7369812.

Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1

Caroline is a former NCAA D1 Women’s College Soccer player who also played in the WPSL, the second highest level of professional women’s soccer in the United States. Although soccer was her first love, Caroline eats, sleeps, and breathes all things fitness. She credits her high school’s football coach, Jason Estep, with teaching her how to properly use a barbell at 15 years old and inspiring an enduring love for strength training. Caroline is also a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. Content wise, Caroline has a background in Public Relations and previously worked in the Communication department at Appalachian State University. When Caroline isn’t writing or working out, she works with dachshund rescue groups and listens to way too many true crime podcasts.

Further reading

Best Walking Apps (2024): These Apps Were Made for Walking, And That’s Just What They’ll Do

by Anthony O'Reilly CPT, CNC

Walking is one of the best workouts, so track your progress with one of the best walking apps for smartphones. Read more

Bowflex TreadClimber TC5000 Review (2024)

by Kate Meier NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

Curious about this unique piece of equipment from Bowflex? Find out more about it with this Bowflex TreadClimber TC5000 review. Read more

The 5 Best Strength and Conditioning Certifications (2024): Programs Centered on Athletic Performance

by Caine Wilkes, OLY, USAW-L1

Looking to start a career in strength and conditioning? Better get certified. Here are our picks for the best strength and conditioning certifications. Read more

Military Discounts on Home Gym Equipment

by Anthony O'Reilly CPT, CNC

We’ve rounded up some of the best military discounts on home gym equipment so you can quickly find ways to save. Read more