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As we age, it can feel increasingly challenging to get in—and stay in—shape. For those older adults who aren’t comfortable inside a gym or maybe want something more convenient, purchasing the best treadmill for your home could be the way to go.
To guide you in your search for a cardio machine, I’m here to help you find the best treadmill for seniors. Whether you’re looking for a great compact option or you’re on a tight budget, there is something for almost everyone on this list. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and put on your readers (I know I am) because we’re getting started.
Over 40 Treadmills Tested
I’m a CrossFit L1 Trainer and I’m a former NCAA D1 Women’s College Soccer player, so you know I know cardio. Treadmills in particular are a specialty of mine—I’m one of those people who actually enjoys them.
Our team of expert product reviewers and testers have run, walked, and jogged on well over 40 different treadmills in the quest to bring you the best options for your home gym. When paring down this list, we looked at factors like step-up height, belt cushioning, and safety mechanisms, among other factors, to determine which would be best for older adults.
Plus, Kate Meier, head of content at GGR and an experienced trainer who works with seniors, weighs in on why treadmills are a great option for older adults.
8 Best Treadmills for Seniors
- Overall Best Treadmill for Seniors: Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Sole F63
- Best Treadmill for Seniors with Low Step-Up Height: NordicTrack Commercial 1250
- Best Fold Up Treadmill for Seniors: ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
- Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors: Echelon Stride-6
- Best Budget Treadmill for Seniors: UREVO Folding Treadmill
- Best Cushioned Treadmill for Seniors: Sole F63
- Best Small Treadmill for Seniors: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7603
- Best Treadmill for Seniors with a Simple Display: XTERRA Fitness TR150
- Best Treadmill for Seniors with Programming: Peloton Tread
Video Review
Best Treadmill for Seniors Overall: Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Good for: People with joint pain who need a more comfortable cardio experience
Best Overall
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Foldable design
- Deck cushioning
- 12 mph top speed
- Incline up to 15%
- 350 lb use weight capacity
- 22" W x 60" L running area
- Built-in workout programs
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Generously sized running deck of 60 inches
- User weight capacity of 350 lbs
- Foldable
- Sturdy and doesn't shake much while in use
- Powerful 3.5 CHP motor
Cons
- Large and not made for compact spaces
- Heavy at 318 lbs
- Lack of touchscreen/interactive programming
Bottom Line
If you're a serious runner and want a foldable treadmill you can trust, I would strongly recommend the Horizon 7.4. Although it doesn't have all the extra technology features (like interactive programming or a touchscreen) it is a well-build machine with a powerful motor.
Want to feel like you’re walking or jogging on a cloud? Yeah, me too! The Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill is here to fulfill that quota with “3-zone variable response cushioning.” This is just a fancy way of saying the belt cushioning is going to support your strides for an extra bounce in your step.
Plus, the 60-inch-long by 22-inch-wide deck is wide and long enough for seniors of a variety of heights. As someone over 5 feet 9 inches, I’m singing all the praises for the 7.4 AT because I can comfortably stride without carefully calculating my steps.
Please be aware of the step-up height. At 8.75 inches, the 7.4 AT might require assistance for both mounting and dismounting if you’re worried about falling. But, there are so many other good features, we felt like this machine earned the No. 1 spot.
The display is fairly traditional for a treadmill without a touchscreen. The LED console is easy-to-read and shows the traditional metrics. Nothing crazy, but if you’re looking for intuitive and simple, the 7.4 AT will get ‘er done. The technology it has does get the job done so we’re rating it a 5 out of 5.
Although the supportive handlebars are on the shorter side, you do have easy access to the quick-dial controls. These controls allow you to change the speed and incline with a flick of your wrist. I think this is a solid feature for seniors who don’t want to worry about losing their balance while switching settings. We love the ease of adjusting things and are rating it a 4.5 out of 5 for adjustability.
For a safe assembly process, I recommend having a helper or two since the machine is very heavy. The actual directions themselves are simple to follow, but execution will be easier with additional hands. However, you can get white glove delivery and assembly through the Horizon website for an additional fee if you prefer. We’re rating a 4 out of 5 for assembly since it’s not really doable on your own and is really heavy.
Check out our full Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill review.
| Step Up Height: | 8.75 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Yes; well-cushioned |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | Yes; white glove delivery offered |
Best Treadmill for Seniors with Low Step-Up Height: NordicTrack 1250
Good for: Anyone who wants to get their steps in but lacks mobility
If step-up height is a factor you’re considering when looking at treadmill features, the NordicTrack 1250 is a great option. It has a step-up height of about 9 inches, which honestly isn’t the lowest, but for everything this treadmill has to offer, it’s a great compromise. We really love that it utilizes NordicTrack’s signature EasyLift Assist system, the built-in hydraulics make it really easy to fold up. You’ll need enough mobility to take a solid step, but it won’t be a huge one by any means. Some treadmills require a pretty big step to get into motion, but there is no need to worry about that with this one.
To go along with the low step-up height, this treadmill is really durable—once you’re in motion it’s smooth going. GGR expert product tester Lindsay Scheele tried this treadmill out, and says she doesn’t think you could make it wobble, even if you made a legitimate effort to. Even when running at 10 mph, Lindsay didn’t experience any give, so we’re rating it a 5 out of 5 for durability.
The NordicTrack 1250 is really comfortable to run on, and Lindsay says she thinks it’s one of the most comfortable ones she’s ever tested—and she’s tested a lot of treadmills! If you’re looking to do some low-impact cardio exercise, you’ll be super thankful for this well-cushioned running deck. It also has a fan to help cool you off, but according to Lindsay, it’s honestly not that impressive. We’re giving the NordicTrack 1250 a 4.5 out of 5 for ergonomics.
As far as assembly goes, we had white glove assembly for the machine delivered to our warehouse in Springfield, and it took two people around an hour to get it set up. They didn’t seem to have any stand-out issues in the process.
However, once your treadmill is set up and ready to go, you may need some help if you decide to move it. It weighs just over 275 pounds, and while it does have wheels on the front, it still isn’t easy to move around. We’re giving it a 3.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
Read our full review on the NordicTrack 1250 to find out more about what it has to offer.
| Step Up Height: | 9 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Yes; well-cushioned |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | Yes |
Best Fold-Up Treadmill for Seniors: ProForm Carbon TLX
Good for: Those who want a foldable treadmill with iFIT programming for under $1,000
Best Fold Up Treadmill for Seniors
ProForm Carbon TLX
Product Highlights
- Affordable folding treadmill
- 3.0 CHP motor
- 60" belt
- 0-12 mph speed range
- 12% incline
- 7-inch display
- iFIT-enabled
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Durable with a 3.0 CHP motor
- 300-lb weight capacity
- 60-inch belt length
- 12% incline
- Cushioned running deck
- iFIT-enabled
- Foldable
Cons
- Only a 1-year parts warranty
- No touchscreen display
Bottom Line
The ProForm Carbon TLX is an affordable folding treadmill that would be suitable for a small space. It's durable, with a 300-pound weight capacity and 3.0 CHP motor, plus it offers up to 12% incline. Also take advantage of iFIT for virtual classes on this machine.
The ProForm Carbon TLX is a treadmill with an easy-to-fold deck, making it an ideal choice for seniors who need to store their exercise equipment away while not in use. I’m especially a fan of the gas shock on the folding mechanism on the TLX. This makes it safer for the user to fold and unfold the machine, since the deck won’t come crashing down when released.
“Even though it says that it weighs 249 pounds in the box I thought it moved just as well as a high quality more expensive treadmill,” says Lindsay Scheele, lead reviewer for Garage Gym Reviews. She used the TLX for several workouts to complete our ProForm Carbon TLX review, and said her only complaint for moving the machine around is that there is no handle at the end of the running deck to hold on to, which higher-end treadmills often have. Lindsay gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 for portability.
The handlebars on the side of the TLX provide quite a bit of stability for older adults who prefer to have support while walking or jogging. I also like the ProShox Cushioning system—if you have joint pain, this carefully-thought-out belt cushioning might make this treadmill a good option for you.
There is no built-in touchscreen on the TLX; instead, there is a media shelf where you can set a smartphone or tablet to stream iFIT programming. The display itself is pretty basic, but Lindsay said it is easy to use and read. It doesn’t have much to work with technology wise but what it does have works well so we give it a 3.5 out of 5 for tech capabilities.
Assembly-wise, you definitely need a second person to help put the TLX together. It isn’t that the instructions are difficult to follow, but it weighs nearly 250 pounds—something to keep in mind. Since the assembly is straightforward (so long as you have help) we are rating it a 5 out of 5 for assembly.
| Step Up Height: | 7.75 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Yes; ProShox Cushioning |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | Yes, for $199 |
Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors: Echelon Stride 6
Good for: Seniors who enjoy frequently walking but also want a user-friendly machine
Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors
Echelon Stride-6
Product Highlights
- Auto-fold
- 12.5 incline levels
- No assembly required
- Cushioned running deck
- 300-lb user weight capacity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Folds and unfolds with the push of a button
- No assembly
- Vertical and horizontal transport wheels
- Bluetooth compatible
Cons
- Screen not included
- 1-year warranty for most customers (Echelon Premier members get a 5-year warranty)
Bottom Line
The Echelon Stride 6 has all the features you'd expect in a heavy-duty treadmill, along with auto-fold technology and zero assembly.
If you’re a senior looking for a great walking treadmill, the Echelon Stride 6 is a great product. With a shock-absorbing deck and a relatively low step-up height at 6.5 inches, the Stride 6 delivers a comfortable workout.
Garage Gym Reviews editorial member Kate Meier has owned the Echelon Stride for nearly a year. While this treadmill is now discontinued, it is almost identical to the Stride 6.
“I have walked hundreds of miles on the Stride,” says Kate, who is also personal trainer who works with seniors. “The cushioning is fantastic, especially for those who deal with any joint pain.”
Another benefit to the Stride 6 is how easy it’s to use. The LED display has clearly marked buttons and large lettering. There are also buttons on either handlebar to easily control speed and incline without having to move your hands much. Kate says it’s pretty easy to adjust with the handrail buttons and she likes that you don’t have to fumble around with the main screen. We give it a rating of 4 out of 5 for adjustability.
“I use the handlebar buttons almost exclusively,” Kate says. “Also, while I have tested probably a dozen treadmills with fancy touchscreens, I think the Stride’s simple display and basic programming is ideal for those who want a reliable treadmill for walking.
One great aspect of the Stride line of treadmills is that many of them fold flat and can be stored vertically, earning them a 5-out-of-5 rating for footprint and portability. “I fold mine up and put it against the wall to save space while I’m not using it,” Kate notes.
The Stride also has a handy safety stop key to clip onto your clothing before getting started. If you take a tumble or lose your balance, the key will pull out of the dashboard and stop the treadmill.
One place the Stride 6 improved upon the Stride is that the walking surface is now a spacious 60 inches long and 20.5 inches wide (an improvement over the original Stride’s 55-by-20-inches measurement). The added length is great for accommodating taller users.
Want to learn more? Take a look at our Echelon Fitness Stride Review.
| Step Up Height: | 6.5 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Average Cushioning |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | No |
Best Budget Treadmill for Seniors: UREVO Folding Treadmill
Good for: Older adults who are tight on both space and cash, but still want a decent treadmill
Best Budget Treadmill for Seniors
UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Folds flat to fit under beds and couches
- Comes ready to go; no assembly required
- Easy to move
- Can also be used under a standing desk
- No incline
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Under $400
- Handle can be folded under to use under a desk
- Easy to store and good for people in tight spaces
Cons
- Short and skinny deck not ideal for running
- User weight capacity below industry standard at 265 lbs
- Max speed of 7.6 mph
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a foldable treadmill for under $500, the UREVO 2 in 1 is a great option for you.
If you really want a treadmill but don’t want to spend lots of cash, listen up! The UREVO Folding Treadmill is under $400 and could be a good option if you’re looking for the best budget option for seniors. There is plenty to like about this affordable treadmill:a low step-up height of 3.5 inches, simple controls, and a super simple assembly process.
For those who have limited mobility, the UREVO offers a deck that’s very easy to step up on. Plus, once on the machine, the controls are simple and intuitive. You’ll see a stop button, + or – speed, start, and a quick jump button for speed. This is obviously not a technology-heavy machine, but if you’re looking for user-friendly, this is certainly it. While it isn’t fancy as far as technology is concerned, we’re still giving it 4.5 out of 5 stars since it does have a remote, and that works well.
RELATED: Best Budget Treadmill
Another wonderful thing about the UREVO? The assembly process! This folding treadmill (available via Amazon) comes completely pre-assembled; all you need to do is simply unfold it. However, with such an uncomplicated treadmill comes an equally basic display. Expect to see the bare minimum of metrics like speed, calories burned, time, and distance on the top of the deck. We’re giving it a 5-out-of-5 rating for assembly since it’s such a breeze.
If you’re taller than 5 feet 9 inches, I don’t think I’d recommend this machine for you. The deck itself is well-cushioned for the price, but the width and length of the belt leaves something to be desired. At 16.9 inches wide by 42.5 inches long, this short treadmill isn’t a good option for people with longer legs or lengthy strides.
Read more in our UREVO Treadmill review.
| Step Up Height: | 3.5 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Average cushioning, but has shock absorption |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | No; comes completely pre-assembled |
Best Treadmill for Seniors With Cushioning: Sole F63
Good for: An all-around great cardio machine ideal for most seniors looking for a treadmill
Best With Cushioning
Sole F63 Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Folding treadmill
- Costs around $1,200
- Bluetooth speakers, USB port, and cooling fans
- Powerful 3.0 HP motor
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Financing is available
- Bluetooth speakers
- USB port
- Device holder
- 15 different levels of incline
- Cushioned deck
- 20" W x 60" L belt
- 325-lb weight capacity
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Cons
- Heavy machine
- No touchscreen
Bottom Line
The Sole F63 Treadmill is an affordable option for people who want a powerful, reliable machine that folds without breaking their budget.
The Sole F63 is a treadmill that will work really well for a lot of people, especially seniors. The deck is generously sized at 20 inches by 60 inches, so it will be ideal for taller older adults with a longer stride. Even if you’re not tall, I like a larger and wider deck on a treadmill for seniors so it isn’t akin to walking on a tightrope, which could cause a fall.
Worried about being able to actually view the options on your new treadmill’s display? Never fear! The F63 has large buttons that are both easy to see and use. Plus, you can quickly find the large red stop button on the dash to end your workout safely and easily.
Assembly-wise, I’d really recommend professional assembly or enlisting several other people to help.This isn’t a machine I’d be thrilled to know a family member was unboxing and assembling themselves. Although the instructions for assembly are simple and easy to understand, the machine is pretty heavy at 254 pounds. Add some extra packing materials in the box, and you have a really heavy package that isn’t safe for most people to unbox on their own.
It is also worth noting the step-up height of the F63. At 8 inches, this is higher than I’d typically like to see on a machine ideal for seniors (I would prefer to see it under 7 inches, because this is the industry standard). Make sure to be extra careful when stepping on or off the machine and use the handrails for support.
I do like that the weight capacity of the Sole F63 is 325 pounds, which is over the industry standard of 300 pounds. This is especially nice for a treadmill that is only $1,000. Other nice features include a second set of small handles for heart rate monitoring and a “cushion flex whisper deck,” which can “reduce the impact on joints,” according to the Sole website.
Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill review.
| Step Up Height: | 8 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Yes; “Cushion Flex Whisper Deck” |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | Yes; $299.99 |
Best Small Treadmill for Seniors: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603
Good for: Smaller seniors who want a compact and easy-to-use treadmill at a great price
Best Small Treadmill for Seniors
Sunny Health And Fitness SF - T7603 Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Compact and foldable
- Simple to build solo
- Foldable with a gas shock for gentle release
- Handles have speed adjustments
- 2.2 CHP motor
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to fold
- Lightweight
- Sturdy, all-steel frame
- Shock absorption
- Reviewers report easy assembly
Cons
- Weaker motor will not support sustained or intense runs
- Small running deck not suited for taller individuals
- Some users report the lifespan is very short
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a seriously affordable, compact, portable and simple treadmill, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 folding treadmill may be for you. While this machine won’t support sustained or intense running, it’s a value purchase for walkers, joggers and casual runners.
For seniors with limited space, the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7603 is an ideal choice. At just 103 pounds, this under $500 cardio machine is way lighter than a traditional treadmill. It’s small enough to fit in a tiny apartment and is foldable with a gas shock for safety, which I love. We’re giving it 4.5 out of 5 stars for footprint and portability.
The controls on the SF-T7603 are simple and user-friendly, with a hint of antiquated nostalgia. The buttons are large, colorful, and easy to read––just the way I like it.
RELATED: Sunny Health & Fitness (SF-T4400) review
I have to say—I’m definitely a fan of the easily accessible speed settings on the handlebars. If you need to hold onto them for support or balance, you can also easily switch your speed without having to take both hands off. It only has three levels of incline, but it’s pretty easy to adjust that as well as speed, so we’re giving it a 3 out of 5 for adjustability.
Unsurprisingly, with a small overall footprint comes a smaller deck. If you’re taller, this machine isn’t the best option for you due to the 49-inch by 16-inch belt. I would recommend this machine to seniors who are on the shorter and smaller side for walking or light jogging. It is also worth noting that the step-up height of 8 inches will make getting on the treadmill itself a bit more complicated for seniors.
Check out the full Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7603 review.
| Step Up Height: | 8 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Yes; above average cushioning |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | Yes; $59.99 on Amazon |
Best Treadmill for Seniors with Programming: Peloton Tread
Good for: Anyone who wants to spice up their treadmill workouts with diverse programming
Best Treadmill for Seniors with a Programming
XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Simple to use
- Lifetime warranty on the frame
- Easy to build
- 12 preset programs
- Deck has sub-par cushioning
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Foldable
- Portable with transport wheels
- Ideal for beginner walkers to speed walkers
- Lightweight
- Great warranty
- Easy-to-read 5-inch LED display
- 12 preset programs onboard
Cons
- Only 2.25 horsepower motor
- Some reviewers report it is noisy
- Water bottle holders on console reportedly do not fit normal bottle sizes
- Users claim they received an error code after one use
- Several reviews reported that the dimensions provided are inaccurate
- Not suited for experienced and heavy users
Bottom Line
The XTERRA TR150 is a starter treadmill available on the lower end of the budget scale offering a commendable lifetime frame warranty and features comparable to competitive models. If you are just beginning your fitness journey, this is a great option for you.
Peloton is the name of the game when it comes to programming. If you know anything about indoor cardio, then you probably know something about what Peloton has to offer. The Peloton Tread has a beautiful 23.8-inch HD touchscreen display. Plus, you can access thousands of workout programs for $44 a month, and the platform in general is super easy to use. This treadmill will get you excited to grab a new pair of the Best Walking Shoes for Seniors and get moving.
Lindsay Scheele, GGR’s expert cardio equipment tester, had nothing but good things to say about the programming available on this treadmill. She specifically pointed out how easy it is to use, plus the fact that she thinks someone with little tech knowledge could manage it. “My eight-year-old could easily operate this, and honestly, my five-year-old probably could as well,” says Lindsay. We feel confident that seniors who aren’t very familiar with technology could figure the programming out without issues.
Whether you’re getting yourself set up for a walking or running workout, you’ll be carefully guided through the process via the touchscreen. The program tells you exactly what to do, so you won’t struggle to navigate the screen. For this reason, we’re definitely giving it a 5-out-5 rating for dynamic programming and a 5-out-of-5 rating for its tech capabilities. The programming is also very diverse so you’ll be able to find a workout that works for your fitness and energy levels, no matter what your age is.
This treadmill has a lot more to offer than easy-to-use, diverse programming. It’s also really sleek and is going to look nice wherever you end up putting it. It isn’t exactly small in size, but as long as you have a decently sized and designated workout space, it’ll be perfect. The running belt is 59 inches long, which is about an inch shorter than the industry standard, but it’s definitely not considered short.
The deck of this treadmill is shock-absorbing. However, it isn’t cushioned, so we’d say it’s middle-of-the-road as far as comfort goes. Lindsay did say she felt like this treadmill was sturdy and other reviewers said they don’t feel like it wobbles when running. A senior friend of GGR, Dawn Chapman, said she feels really secure when running on the Peloton Tread and the sturdiness of the Peloton Tread is a stand-out feature. For that reason, we’re giving it a rating of 3.5 out of 5 for ergonomics and a 4-out-5 durability rating.
Take a look at our Peloton Tread review to see more details about this treadmill.
| Step Up Height: | 5.15 inches |
| Cushioned Deck: | Not well-cushioned |
| Professional Assembly Offered: | Yes; included in price |
Other Treadmills We Tried and Researched
With so many treadmills on the market, you can bet your bottom dollar we tried and researched dozens more than what was included on this list. Here’s just a small sampling of the others we took a close look at:
Schwinn 810 Treadmill: At $799, this treadmill is an affordable option. However, the deck isn’t well-cushioned at all, which is why it wouldn’t be my first pick for a senior, especially one with joint pain.
Goplus Treadmill: With an exceptionally small deck, I wouldn’t recommend this compact treadmill to a senior with any type of balance issues. Heck, I almost fell off when using it and I’m in my 20’s! (Check out the full Goplus Treadmill review here.)
Nautilus T618 Treadmill: This treadmill was recalled on June 9, 2023, after users reporting issues with the machine self-starting—an obvious safety hazard. And, beyond that, the backlit LCD screens on this machine displaying many crowded metrics may overwhelm seniors, especially those who have vision issues. (Full Nautilus T618 Treadmill review here.)
Tru Grit Runner: As one of the best budget curved treadmills, the Tru Grit Runner is an ideal choice for someone who wants a self-powered workout. However, this machine is extremely heavy, and isn’t the most practical choice for a senior.
StairMaster HIITMill Treadmill: Although the HIITMill has some of the most supportive safety handles I’ve ever seen, it clocks in at close to $5,000. Plus, this machine is insanely bulky and would require significant space.
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill: The 1750 has proven time and time again it’s one of the best overall treadmills on the market. With the ability to support an iFIT membership, a digital display, and Bluetooth connectivity, this machine has it all. However, most seniors don’t need something with as many bells and whistles as the 1750 has.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Treadmills for Seniors
Not only do we know and understand the industry standards for a good, all-around treadmill, but we also considered what features senior citizens would want for a more pleasurable experience. Here are the things we looked at when evaluating each treadmill that made this list (and each that did not):
- Deck size (length and width of the running belt were considered)
- Display type and size
- Ease of use of buttons and controls
- Incline and decline features
- Speed range
- Full-length handrails
- Step up height
- Foldability and soft-drop deck
- Space-saving
- Easy storage
- Ease of assembly
- Transport wheels
- Weight of the treadmill
- User max weight capacity
- Safety key or easy-stop button
Benefits of Treadmills for Seniors
The health benefits of exercise are well-known, but why should a senior specifically buy a treadmill catered to them? I’m glad you asked! Here are the top four benefits of treadmills for seniors:
Safer
Getting a treadmill that has safety concerns in mind can make the cardio experience a more pleasurable one for a senior. Plus, things like an included safety key, lower step-up height, and a wider deck can prevent unnecessary falls or injuries.
Still not convinced? According to a study done by the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, regular cardio on a treadmill can improve both balance and coordination in seniors. Time to get your sweat on!
Controlled Environment
“What I like about the treadmill is that it is a much more controlled environment than, say, walking or running outside,” personal trainer Kate Meier explains.
“This is especially important for populations where factors like balance, weather, and health concerns come into play. Exercising on a treadmill means not having to worry about tripping over a curb, or being close to emergency medication or help if you need it.”
More Comfortable
Finding a machine with little conveniences can make exercise easier and less frustrating. Many of the machines I’ve listed above have well-cushioned decks, simple controls, and a lengthy belt.
Easy to Use
Starting anything new can be scary, so it’s important to choose a user-friendly treadmill that makes the process slightly less complicated. For seniors, I love preset workout programs on treadmills that take the guesswork out of exercise.
What Should a Senior Look for in a Treadmill?
Are you a senior or maybe have an older parent in your life that wants to get healthy? Purchasing a treadmill for home use is a great place to start on the journey to better cardiovascular health.
Here are some of the things I’d recommend considering before pulling the trigger on a certain treadmill:
Type of Treadmill
Generally speaking, there are two different types of treadmills: manual treadmills and motorized treadmills. All of the options I have included in this list are motorized, which is for a reason. Most high-quality non-motorized options I would recommend are either quite expensive or very heavy. Neither of these things are usually what casual exercisers or the senior population is looking for in a new treadmill.
Lower Step-Up
When choosing a treadmill for an older adult, I recommend checking the machine’s step-up height. Under 6 inches is ideal and considered low. This is an important thing to check out for seniors who want to minimize risk.
User-Friendly Controls
This should come without saying, but it is actually kind of important to be able to see and use the controls on your cardio machine. I know, what a novel idea. Having intuitive and obvious buttons can make your treadmill experience a much more pleasant one as an older adult.
Cushioned Deck
With age unfortunately comes good ole joint pain. Even if you’re one of the lucky ones to avoid this ailment, I’d still recommend checking out treadmills that have well-cushioned belts. Even as a 24-year-old who has had her ankle reconstructed, I know I’d sure as heck like to run or walk on a treadmill with comfortable cushioning.
Related: Best Treadmill for Bad Knees
Wider Treadmill Belt
For those who may struggle with balance, having a wide belt on a treadmill can help prevent unnecessary falls and injuries. You don’t want to feel as if you’re walking on a tightrope while working out. Cardio is bad enough on its own, let’s not make it worse with a slim deck that makes you more prone to a wicked fall, shall we?
Safety Features
Staying safe on a powerful cardio machine is important, which is why you should look for specialty safety features. Things like a magnetic emergency stop key and a folding mechanism with a gas shock are two features I’d recommend for seniors.
Related: Treadmill Safety 101
Long Handlebars for Support
Especially if you struggle with balance, having handlebars to grab onto while using a treadmill is key. Handlebars are a fairly common addition to most treadmills, but some extreme budget options may have flimsier ones.
Easy to Assemble or Professional Assembly Options Available
Easy assembly is important when it comes to treadmills for seniors. Heck, I’m in my 20’s and slipped a disk in my back trying to be superman and assemble a 300-pound cardio machine by myself. If you’re an older adult, I would definitely recommend looking for a machine that comes mostly pre-assembled or has white glove delivery options. At the very least, grab a few of your friends or family members to assist.
Best Treadmill for Seniors FAQs
Are treadmills good for older people?
Treadmills can be a good option for almost anyone, regardless of age. However, if you have concerns, please consult a registered clinician before starting exercise of any type.
Which treadmill is best for aged people?
My overall pick for the best treadmill for aged people would be the Sole F63. However, every person is different and is looking for various features. I would suggest writing down the things you want the most in terms of your new treadmill and see which machines match up with the options on this page.
How long should a 70-year-old walk on a treadmill?
Provided the 70-year-old has been cleared by a medical professional to exercise, 10 to 15 minutes is a good place to start. Don’t do too much too fast! Instead, gradually increase your time as you get more comfortable and familiar with the treadmill and your physical fitness improves.
Is it better for a senior who is a beginner to use an elliptical or an electric treadmill?
For those who want a low-impact option, ellipticals are a good option. However, treadmills can be a helpful tool for mobility and even as an aid to weight loss, too. If you have specific questions, I would definitely recommend talking to your primary care physician, as they can offer specific medical advice.
As a personal trainer, do you think it is important for a senior to have a powerful motor on their treadmill?
“For seniors who just want to improve their fitness walking, they likely don’t need a heavy-duty or high-end treadmill,” explains certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto. “However, for those who need a treadmill that can support jogging or running, make sure to look for an option that has at least a 2.5 HP motor.”
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