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I have a confession to make: I love running on the treadmill. Turning up the music and jacking up the speed for some interval training is what I live for on cardio days. Plus, my reconstructed ankle appreciates the extra cushioning of a treadmill versus the pain-inducing (in my opinion) concrete or pavement.
After testing a dizzying number of these machines, my ankle and I have compiled seven contenders for the best treadmills for running. This list has something for nearly everyone. Whether you’re looking for an option with interactive programming, the best folding treadmill, or are on a budget, we have you covered.
- Durability: Does it have a good weight capacity of at least 300 pounds and a strong motor?
- Speed and incline range: Can it be used by beginners and advanced runners?
- Programming: While not essential, high-quality workout programming can enhance your treadmill experience.
- Ergonomics: Does it have a cushioned deck and a wide running area?
- Noise: Can you use it while people are sleeping or does it sound like a herd of elephants?
8 Best Treadmills For Running
Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Best Overall
NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Product Highlights
- Spacious running deck
- Compatible with iFIT
- 14-inch touchscreen
- Incline and decline training
- Financing available
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compatible with iFIT
- 3.5 CHP motor
- Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
- Treadmill with incline and decline training
- Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
- Run that feels similar to road running
- Financing options available through NordicTrack
- Generous speed range
- Wide running deck
- Cooling fan
Cons
- Big footprint
- Heavy and not the easiest to move
- Price is around $2,000
- Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
Many members of the GGR team have run on the Commercial 1750 over the years, and they all agree. “This machine provides such a smooth run,” says GGR senior director of content and CPT Kate Meier. “There’s no shaking, the incline and speed range is great, and it’s fairly quiet overall.”
RELATED: The Best NordicTrack Treadmills
Now let’s get down to the specifics: The treadmill belt itself is unique in that you can switch the cushioning on and off to simulate running outdoors, which can be super helpful if you’re training for a race. Plus, the 1750 has both incline and decline options to further challenge you during your workout. I also like that the max speed is 12 mph, which is above the industry average of 10 mph. Because of these factors, we rate it a 5 out of 5 in the adjustments and ergonomics category.
If you’re someone who loves interactive programming on a home treadmill for running, the 1750 has you covered with a 14-inch touchscreen and iFIT compatibility (subscription sold separately). For comparison, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 has a 22-inch screen. You will have to pay an additional $600 for the 2950 if a bigger screen is important to you. Regardless, we rate the tech capabilities of the Commercial 1750 a 5 out of 5.
The price tag is expensive on the 1750; expect to pay close to $2,500 for your new treadmill. However, I do like that NordicTrack has financing options. You can break your payment up into more manageable, monthly increments for around $49 per month.
Now for something I’m not nuts about: the assembly. Geez Louise, please don’t try to assemble this on your own. Seriously. Grab a friend, your mom, or your neighbor whom you bribe with cookies to help. The 1750 is really heavy at 339 pounds, and the individual pieces are tough to unbox on your own. If you can afford it, the extra $199 for professional assembly from NordicTrack may be worth it. It’ll certainly save you (and whatever individual you could rope into helping you) a sweaty Saturday.
Read all our thoughts in the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review.
| Dimensions | 80” L x 38” W x 65” H | |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | |
| Max Speed | 12 mph | |
| Incline/Decline | -3% to 12% | |
| Screen | 14″ HD touchscreen | |
| Motor | 3.5 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor | |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor |
Best Budget Treadmill for Running: Sole F63
Good for: People who want a reliable treadmill under $1,000
Best Budget
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 great running treadmill for right around $1,200. I know, I know; $1,200 is still a lot of cheddar, I agree. However, if you want a treadmill used for running, going too cheap will mean sacrificing elements that are crucial to supporting your exercise—for example, the running surface. The F63 has a 60-inch deck, which can comfortably accommodate a variety of stride lengths.
A lot of the best budget treadmills have a super short deck or weak motor, which can make more intense cardio difficult to do. The Sole F63 has a strong 3.0 CHP motor, 15 levels of incline, and a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, earning it a 4-out-of-5 durability rating. I like that this machine folds for easier storage. However, it’s a heavy treadmill at over 250 pounds, so you might need help to move it.
RELATED: How to move a treadmill
The Sole F63 used to come with a strap heart rate monitor, but the company no longer includes this extra perk. But if you have a fitness tracker, you’ll still be able to keep track of your heart rate data.
The LCD display isn’t my favorite, but for the price of this affordable treadmill for running at home, it’s unsurprising that there is not a touchscreen. It’s not that the display is necessarily bad or unusable, but it doesn’t look caught up with today’s technologies. It reminds me quite a bit of an early 2000’s LCD monitor on a treadmill you’d see in a gym. You can still use the device holder to watch your own programming if you choose. Because of all of these factors, we rate the tech capabilities on this machine a 4.25 out of 5.
Want to learn more? Take a look at my full Sole F63 Treadmill review.
| Dimensions | 66” H x 82” L x 35” W |
| Weight Capacity | 325 lbs |
| Max Speed | 12 mph |
| Incline/Decline | 0 to 15% |
| Screen | 6.5″ LCD Display |
| Motor | 3.0 HP |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty on steel frame and motor; 3 years for deck, electronics, and parts; 1 year for labor |
Best Peloton Tread Alternative: Horizon 7.4 AT
Good for: People looking for the bells and whistles of the Peloton Tread at a lesser price
Best Peloton Tread Alternative
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.
For a treadmill that can support interactive programming like Peloton without the Tread’s price tag, the Horizon 7.4 AT is a solid option. This $1,600 running treadmill—which is $900 less than the Tread—can connect with a variety of fitness apps like Peloton, Zwift, Studio, CardioCast, and more. You can also watch Netflix, Hulu, or Disney + on your tablet and play the audio via Bluetooth over the speakers.
RELATED: The Best Running Apps
I like that you can actually use almost any program you want and have it sync to the 7.4 AT for things like metrics, heart rate, speed, and sound. This makes the 7.4 AT an even more versatile option than a high-end Peloton, even though you have to use your own device. We rate tech capabilities as a 5 out of 5 because of all of these features.
The actual treadmill has a lot going for it besides connectivity to popular apps. The 60-inch deck allows a variety of heights to comfortably use this machine for any type of running. Plus, the quick selector dial allows you to change the incline and speed in a flash. This is a big plus because waiting for the treadmill to catch up speed-wise on intervals and missing a few seconds of a sprint is a definite pet peeve for me.
I do need to warn you: this treadmill is MASSIVE. I’m talking 350 pounds unboxed and close to 400 pounds when it arrives at your doorstep (or inside), earning a 3.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
To read more, check out my Horizon 7.4 Studio Tread Review. Or if you’d still like to compare the two machines, check out my in-depth Peloton Tread review.
| Dimensions | 76” L x 37” W x 63” H |
| Weight Capacity | 350 lbs |
| Max Speed | 12 MPH |
| Incline/Decline | 0 to 15% |
| Screen | LCD display |
| Motor | 3.5 CHP |
| Warranty | Frame and motor: lifetime; parts: 5 years; labor: 2 years |
Best Treadmill for Running with Virtual Classes: ProForm Pro 9000
Good for: People who want a touchscreen on their treadmill to view interactive programming
Best with Virtual Classes
ProForm Pro 9000
Product Highlights
- Compatible with iFIT
- Powerful motor
- Foldable treadmill
- Large 22-inch HD displays
- Hands-free incline/speed adjustments
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large 22-inch display
- Compatible with iFIT
- Incline and decline training available
- Cushioned deck
- Fan and water bottle holder
- Bluetooth speakers
Cons
- Priced around $2,300
- iFIT subscription is an additional cost
- Heavy machine with a big footprint
- You cannot store or use this treadmill in your garage without voiding the warranty
Bottom Line
The ProForm Pro 9000 is a powerful, pricey treadmill great for those who want interactive programming from a reliable machine.
If you’re looking for solid interactive programming on a durable treadmill, the ProForm Pro 9000 passes the test with flying colors. The 22-inch touchscreen is user-friendly and connects to iFIT (which you get a free 30-day trial of with purchase). The classes you can take aren’t limited to a studio; I enjoyed running with the instructors in a variety of settings outdoors, which kept my interest and honestly made the best treadmill workouts more bearable. We give the Pro 9000 a 5-out-of-5 rating in the programming category.
I am also a fan of the easy-to-read metrics displayed at the top of the screen. You can view your incline, calories burned, time elapsed, speed, and distance running. Plus, the quick change for the incline, decline, and speed makes it easier to focus on the workout at hand versus fumbling with the controls.
I did have some difficulty getting the WiFi of the Pro 9000 to connect, and based on customer reviews, I wasn’t alone in that struggle. It is also worth noting that if you don’t want your warranty voided, then you CANNOT store this machine in your garage.
We give the Pro 9000 a 3.5 out of 5 in footprint and portability. While it can be folded and stored off to the side, it’s a heavy machine. I struggled to move the 263-pound treadmill by myself. I’d grab a friend if you need to move it for any reason.
Check out my full ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill review.
| Dimensions | 77.3″ L x 35.5″ W x 59.6″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Max Speed | 12 mph |
| Incline/Decline | -3% decline to 12% incline |
| Screen | 22″ HD touchscreen |
| Motor | 3.6 CHP Mach Z™ |
| Warranty | 10-Year Frame, 2-Year Parts, & 1-Year Labor |
Best Manual Treadmill for Running: AssaultRunner Pro
Good for: People looking to improve their running form
Best Manual
AssaultRunner Pro
Product Highlights
- Low-impact shock absorbing belt
- Incredibly sturdy and durable
- Built-in wheels for portability
- 100% athlete-powered
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely popular
- Durable machine
- No motor means fewer maintenance issues
- Easy-to-read monitor
- Thick rubber belt provides great traction
- Bearings under belt provide smooth run
- Sturdy
- Rear handle makes moving easier
- Powder-coating withstands the elements
- Affordable curved treadmill
- Staple for CrossFitters
Cons
- Extremely heavy
- Curved shape takes getting used to
- Plastic shell may crack
- High spin rate on belt
- No fancy monitor, water bottle holder, or other conveniences
Bottom Line
The AssaultRunner Pro is one of the best value non-motorized treadmills for home gyms on the market.
A manual treadmill may not be your first choice for running, but we’d like you to reconsider. Called manual treadmills because they are, in fact, manual, meaning there’s no electricity involved, you are the power behind getting a manual treadmill to move. And because this is the case, you’ll have to pay extra close attention to your form and your workout in general.
In terms of the best option for a manual treadmill, look no further than the AssaultRunner Pro. Assault Fitness has a great reputation for making quality equipment, and this treadmill is no exception. Made of heavy-duty steel with a 350-pound weight capacity and 150,000-mile belt warranty, it gets a 4-out-of-5 durability score from us (we docked one point because it has some plastic on the sides that can wear down over time).
It has a 62-inch-long running belt and a low-impact running surface, which we love—this means that runners of many shapes and sizes can use this machine comfortably. But unfortunately, there aren’t any adjustments you can make for incline training. So while it does feel good in use, we rate the AssaultRunner Pro a 4 out of 5 for ergonomics and adjustability.
One area that’s lacking in manual treadmills is tech and programming. On the AssaultRunner Pro, you’ll have access to a few metrics on the very basic console, but that’s about it. If you like to work out with dynamic programming or prefer a big touchscreen on your machine, a manual treadmill is not the choice for you.
Lastly, this thing is pretty heavy at 280 pounds and doesn’t fold up like traditional treadmills. There are transport wheels, but you’ll need two people to get this thing where it needs to go. We rate it a 3 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
Read our full AssaultRunner Pro review for more.
| Dimensions | 69.9” L X 32.8” W X 64” H |
| Weight capacity | 350 lbs |
| Max Speed | N/A |
| Incline/decline | N/A |
| Screen | LCD display |
| Motor | N/A |
| Warranty | 5-year frame, 3-year moving parts, 150,000-mile belt |
Best Folding Treadmill for Running: Echelon Stride-6s
Good for: Those tight on space who still want a machine for running
Best Folding
Echelon Stride 6s
Product Highlights
- Auto-fold feature
- 10-inch embedded touchscreen
- Cushioned running deck
- Horizontal and vertical transport wheels
- No assembly required
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Auto-folding feature
- Cushioned, impact-absorbing running deck
- No assembly required
- 3.0 CHP motor
- Horizontal and vertical transport wheels
Cons
- Small 10-inch screen
Bottom Line
The Echelon Stride 6s is a compact and impact-absorbing treadmill that's perfect for people of all fitness levels, and comes with a 10-inch touchscreen to watch live and on-demand fitness classes.
If you’re looking for a treadmill for running workouts and need it to fold up and out of the way when it’s not in use, check out the Echelon Stride-6s, one of the best folding treadmills for running. It features patented auto-fold technology with vertical and horizontal transport wheels.
While we haven’t tested the Stride-6s, we’ve used the OG Stride quite a bit, and these models are fairly similar. Our tester, GGR senior director of content and CPT Kate Meier, was surprised by how stable and durable the original model feels. “Even the deck on the original model felt pretty cushioned and I felt good running on it—this model only provides more in the way of features, so I think it would be a great option for those who need a more compact treadmill for running.”
Let’s get down to it: This treadmill is powerful enough for running, with its 3.0 CHP motor, 0 to 12.5 mph speed range, and 0 to 12.5 incline range, plus it has a weight capacity of 300 pounds. This earns it a solid rating of 4 out of 5 in the durability category.
If you like dynamic programming, you can take advantage of it on this treadmill’s 10-inch touchscreen. It’s also Bluetooth-compatible with heart rate sensors, earning it a 5 out of 5 in tech capabilities as well.
You can check out our Echelon Stride review for more on the original model if you’re interested.
| Dimensions | 5.4′ x 2.7′ x 4.75′ |
| Weight Dapacity | 300 lbs |
| Max Speed | 12.5 mph |
| Incline/Decline | 0-12.5 |
| Screen | 10” touchscreen |
| Motor | 3.0 CHP |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Best Treadmill for Heavy Runners: NordicTrack X22i
Good for: Bigger people who want a home treadmill
Best for Heavy Runners
NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Commercial-grade treadmill with a 4.0 CHP motor
- Speeds up to 12 MPH
- Impressive incline range of -6% to 40%
- Fully rotating and tilting 22-inch HD touchscreen
- iFIT-enabled with 30-day free family membership
- Integrated with Google Maps
- Auto-adjust technology
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Commercial-grade
- 4.0 CHP motor
- Impressive range of incline and decline
- Rotating and tilting HD touchscreen
- Quiet
- Upgraded Bluetooth connectivity
- Free 30-day family membership to iFIT
Cons
- Heart rate strap not included
- Will need subscription to iFIT to access workouts
- Large
- Expensive
Bottom Line
If you have the budget and space, the NordicTrack X22i is a high-quality treadmill that offers a fully immersive experience and some impressive specs to boot.
Running is for everyone, and finding equipment that will support runners of all sizes is something we advocate for here at GGR. Our pick for the best treadmill for heavy runners is the NordicTrack X22i, a well-built, durable machine. With a large frame size—it’s almost 6 feet long—and 4.0 CHP motor, this treadmill will sustain runners who want to put in some serious miles, earning it a 5 out of 5 for durability.
I tested this treadmill myself, and it felt really solid when in use. There was no shaking or even any play really—it was a really nice running experience.
With a belt that’s 60 inches long—perfect for runners—and 22 inches wide—a bit wider than the standard 20-inch belt width—this machine can accommodate users of many sizes, too.
One unique feature of this machine is the incline and decline range. You can take it from -6% decline to 40% incline, which is really impressive and adds to the versatility. You’ll also be able to take advantage of iFIT workouts on the 22-inch touchscreen, which provides an immersive experience. We give the X22i 5 out of 5 in both tech capabilities and programming.
RELATED: iFIT Reviews
One downside of this machine, besides its lack of portability, is the warranty. With 10 years on the frame, and substantially less on parts, you’ll have to be sure that this $3,000 purchase is worth it before committing.
Check out our NordicTrack X22i review for our full deep dive.
| Dimensions | 70” L x 39” W x 72.5” H |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs |
| Max Speed | 12 mph |
| Incline/Decline | -6% – 40% |
| Screen | 22” HD touchscreen |
| Motor | 4.0 CHP |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor |
Best Compact Treadmill for Running: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400
Good for: People who need a smaller treadmill for a home gym that can be stored with ease
Best Compact
Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400
Product Highlights
- Under $500
- Has manual incline options
- Compact and folds
- Speeds up to 9 MPH
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Has incline
- Folds easily
- Very compact
- Tread comes with shock absorption
- Quick-speed buttons on the handrail
Cons
- User weight capacity is 220 lbs
- Top speed of 9 MPH
- No decline option
Bottom Line
The SF-T4400 is a great budget walking treadmill that can be easily folded and used in small spaces.
Tight on space and don’t know how to fit a treadmill into your home gym? The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is here to help! This compact option folds and only weighs 103 pounds. Plus, it unfolds with a simple tap to the supporting pole underneath the machine—can you say 5-out-of-5 footprint and portability rating?
The $450 price tag is very appealing, especially when the option to finance through Affirm is thrown in there as well. However, a cheap price tag does usually mean compromising on a few things when it comes to a running treadmill. The deck of this compact machine is 50 inches, which isn’t bad compared to other budget-friendly treadmills with shorter decks. But it won’t accommodate taller people as easily for running.
The controls on the SF-T4400 are very user-friendly. The handles give you the option to conveniently change your speed, plus stop and start the treadmill at your command. I think this makes it a solid option for a beginner because it’s really easy to get started on without any complicated programming or technology.
With a max speed of 9 mph, this treadmill can definitely be used for jogging and running, but I wouldn’t recommend sprinting on it. It also has manual incline adjustments, which isn’t ideal either. We rate the adjustability and ergonomics on this machine a 3 out of 5.
All in all, if you’re just getting started with your fitness journey and want to work on slow and steady running, this is a great option for you without going overboard on cost. If you’re a more serious runner or a taller individual, I’d recommend selecting something else.
Check out our entire Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill Review for more information.
| Dimensions | 62” L x 25.5” W x 50” H |
| Weight Capacity | 220 lbs |
| Max Speed | 9 mph |
| Incline/Decline | 3 levels |
| Screen | LCD display |
| Motor | Unlisted |
| Warranty | 3 Year Structural Frame, 180 Days Other Parts And Components |
Other Treadmills We Researched
The treadmills mentioned above aren’t the only ones we looked into. Here are a few others that we researched but didn’t make our list:
Bowflex Treadmill 10: This treadmill can definitely be used for running; with a 3.0 CHP motor and incline and decline options, it’s not a bad option. At $1,600, we expect a little more from the touchscreen (it’s only 10-inches). Plus, it’s 325 pounds with an 85 x 40 x 65.5 inches footprint, so it isn’t a good option for people with small spaces. (Check out our full and in-depth Bowflex Treadmill 10 review.)
AssaultRunner Elite: CrossFit fans may be familiar with this almost $4,000 manual treadmill. After all, it’s beloved by many athletes, and for good reason: it’s a solid piece of equipment (albeit an expensive treadmill). However, if you’re looking to purchase a manual treadmill for the same price, I prefer the TrueForm Trainer because it helps you run with better form.
Nautilus T618 Treadmill: Let’s start with the most important factor—the T618 was recalled on June 9, 2023, after users reported issues with the treadmill self-starting. It requires a software update from the company to be safe to use again. But, after taking care of the safety concerns, the T618 does have some green flags when it comes to things I look for in a running treadmill: It has a 60-inch deck, 350-pound weight capacity, and a great frame and motor warranty. I do wish it included a touchscreen for the $1,500 price tag, because the backlit display feels basic. (Full Nautilus T618 Treadmill review here.)
Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill: As a super budget option for home use, I was pretty impressed with the Goplus. At under $400, this foldable treadmill boasts a 2.25 CHP motor, is lightweight, and is easy to move on your own. However, I personally wouldn’t be comfortable running on the Goplus, as the 40-inch deck and 8 mph max speed don’t really work for me. This isn’t to say you couldn’t run on it, but if you’re taller, you might have a rough time.
RELATED: Goplus Treadmill review
UREVO 2-in-1 Treadmill: For a budget-friendly treadmill you can easily pick up on Amazon, the UREVO hits the mark at under $500. Plus, it’s a compact treadmill I’d recommend for beginners. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for running, especially if you’re 5’9” or taller, because the deck is very short at 42 inches.
RELATED: UREVO Treadmill Review
How We Picked and Tested Treadmills for Running
Since this is a list of the top treadmills for runners, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that these treadmills received the full gamut. I jogged, ran, and sprinted on a variety of machines (as did Coop and my fellow GGR writers) to first see how our workout experiences were. Don’t get it twisted; that was the first of many things we evaluated to see if a treadmill would make the cut. Here are some of the other considerations we took into account:
- Price range
- Compactness
- User weight capacity
- Warranty
- Specs (Like footprint)
- 2.5 horsepower motor or greater
- Preset programs
- Display (LCD screen or touchscreen display)
- Portability
- Assembly
- Delivery
- Available adjustments
- Extras (cupholders, Bluetooth speakers, tablet holder)
Benefits of Treadmills for Running
Still trying to decide if spending the extra cash on a running treadmill is worth it? Check out some of the treadmill benefits you could reap by adding one to your home gym:
Weather Who?
If you have your own treadmill for running, weather becomes a non-issue. As we detail more below, you won’t need to worry about the rain staying away or the temperature warming up or cooling down if you can run indoors.
Get Healthy
Running not only improves endurance but also can give you better heart health. Studies have shown regular running can reduce your risk of cardiovascular diseases1. Running on a treadmill can help you burn calories as well, which means it can be an additional tool used to help you possibly lose weight. Please remember that losing weight consists of both exercising and a nutritious diet, so consult a medical professional with any questions you may have if you’re trying to lose weight.
You’re in Control
Calling all control freaks (yes, I’m calling myself out here, too): You can control pretty much every aspect of your run with a treadmill. Switch the speed, incline, programming, and music at your own leisure. You don’t need to stress about being stuck in traffic on the way to the gym, or the impending thunderstorm that could derail an outdoor run. With a running treadmill in your home, you run the show.
Fun Programming
Most of the treadmills we discussed above have interactive programming available, which can help turn your boring run into something fun. Trying to get faster and beat a personal record? You can do interval training and sprints with ease. Looking for a change of scenery? Use an app to run along a beach or through a European city.
Running Outside vs on a Treadmill
Trying to decide if you should buy a treadmill to run on or just hit the pavement outside? Here are some of the pros and cons of treadmill running versus outdoor running.
Pros of Treadmill Running
- You are in charge of the incline, decline, and speed and can train in a controlled environment.
- You don’t have to deal with the elements.
- The cushioning provided by many treadmills can be easier on joints than running outside.
- It’s safer than running alone outdoors.
- Interactive programming options are easier to use on a treadmill.
Pros of Running Outside
- You get fresh air.
- It’s practical for training for outdoor races.
- It’s free and doesn’t require equipment.
- The change of scenery can keep you from getting bored.
Cons of Treadmill Running
- It can be expensive to buy a treadmill.
- There are space concerns to consider.
- Staying in one spot for a run can get boring.
- It doesn’t always accurately simulate something like a marathon or other race.
Cons of Running Outside
- It’s a higher impact than treadmill running.
- There are unknown dangers, like other people and the environment.
- It’s contingent on the weather.
- It’s easier to get hurt because of a changing environment
RELATED: Treadmill vs Outside Running
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Treadmill for Running
Figuring out how to start running can be difficult enough, but if you’re also trying to figure out how to choose the right treadmill for your home gym, that can add to the stress. Here are some things to consider when picking out your ideal fit:
Budget
Generally speaking, you can get away with a lower-quality treadmill if you only plan to walk on it. Most high-quality treadmills I’d recommend for running are close to $1,000 and over. If you really want to get a treadmill with a large enough deck, a high enough powered motor, and a solid warranty, I’d suggest spending a little extra upfront.
Deck Size
If you plan to run on your treadmill, getting a machine with at least a 55-inch deck is important. I’d personally recommend a 60-inch deck if you’re taller, but that’s personal preference. You want your deck to be long enough to support longer strides so you can focus on the workout at hand (and not falling off the treadmill).
Durability
Especially if you’ll be logging some miles on your treadmill while running, you need it to be durable. We look for a weight capacity of at least 275 pounds and a 2.5 CHP motor or better to ensure you’ll feel stable and the machine will be able to keep up.
Programming
Some of the treadmills I mentioned above have a built-in touchscreen on which you can view interactive programming. However, others have a device holder you can use to hold your own phone or tablet and watch your own workout classes. Some treadmills have Bluetooth connectivity where you can sync your device to the machine to accurately track your incline, speed, and calories burned.
Incline and Decline Options
Incline options are fairly common on running treadmills. Decline options are slightly more rare, and usually come on higher-priced machines. Having the ability to do both on a treadmill can be useful for people training for a race who need to simulate running up and down hills.
Speed
A good running treadmill has at least a max speed of 10 mph. More advanced runners will want to look for a max of at least 12 mph to support all-out sprinting efforts.
RELATED: HIIT Treadmill Workout
Motor
For a treadmill that can support running, having a powerful motor of over 2.5 CHP is critical. A treadmill that has less than that will struggle to last with repeated running.
Display
There are usually only a few options when it comes to treadmill displays: HD touchscreens or LCD displays. If you really want to have the option to watch built-in interactive programming, purchasing a treadmill with a touch screen makes more sense for you.
Weight Capacity
I would recommend getting a treadmill that has at least a 275-pound weight capacity. More would ideally be nice (in case you want to do weighted farmer’s carries) but that’s the industry standard for a running treadmill.
Warranty
The best treadmills have a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. Depending on your personal price point, you may have to make some compromises on the warranty your treadmill has.
Have more questions on what you should look for in your new treadmill? Check out our comprehensive treadmill buying guide.
Treadmill Maintenance and Care
If you take care of your machine, it will take care of you. Here are our top tips for treadmill maintenance.
Read Your Owner’s Manual
You’d be surprised what you learn about your machine if you spend some time with the owner’s manual. Learn how to clean it properly and maintain it via this documentation.
Clean Your Treadmill Regularly
This includes both daily cleaning and more periodic cleaning. Wipe it down after use. Monthly, take a damp cloth and a vacuum to your machine to really get into the nooks and crannies.
Take Care of the Treadmill Belt
This includes not only cleaning it regularly, but also using treadmill lubricant if needed—check your owner’s manual for specifics.
Best Treadmill for Running: FAQs
What size treadmill do I need for running?
I’d suggest getting a 55+ inch long deck to run on. Getting anything smaller will make your strides shorter and you slower while running.
What treadmill do marathon runners use?
Marathon runners need a heavy-duty machine that will stand up to lots of miles. Our favorite commercial treadmills include the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 and Commercial X32i, plus the Sole TT8.
Which treadmills are the best for home use?
We often recommend popular brands like Horizon Fitness, Sole Fitness, ProForm, and NordicTrack, who produce some of the best (GGR-approved) treadmills for home use.
What home treadmills are best for running?
You’ll want to look for a sturdy treadmill that won’t wobble as you reach top speeds with an ample running deck that can support a longer stride length or gait. Deck cushioning is also great to have since you’ll be coming down harder on your feet and ankles than you would when using your treadmill for walking.
Here’s our list of the best home treadmills for running:
– Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
– Best Budget Treadmill for Running: Sole F63
– Best Peloton Tread Alternative: Horizon 7.4 AT
– Best Treadmill for Running with Programming: ProForm Pro 9000
– Best Manual Treadmill for Running: TrueForm Trainer
– Best Folding Treadmill for Running: Echelon Stride-s Auto Fold Smart Treadmill
– Best Compact Treadmill for Running: Sunny Health and Fitness (SF-T4400)
Are home treadmills effective?
Yes, they certainly can be, especially when you use your home treadmill consistently. Home treadmills also boast several fitness benefits, such as improvements in cardiovascular function, increased calorie burn, and reduced risk of joint pain or injury. That, and they’re convenient and nearly weather-proof.
References
- Cantwell JD. Cardiovascular aspects of running. Clin Sports Med. 1985 Oct;4(4):627-40. PMID: 3902253.
Further reading
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