How We Test Treadmills
At CR, we know just how important exercise is to a healthy life. To help you get the best home exercise equipment, we test and rate treadmills from a variety of brands, including Bowflex, Horizon Fitness, Landice, LifeFitness, Nautilus, NordicTrack, Peloton, Precor, Sole, True, and Xterra.
Our tests focus on ease of use, construction quality, ergonomics, exercise range, and user safety. Though the term sounds odd, exercise range is an important one—it indicates whether a machine is suitable for a variety of fitness levels. It suggests that a machine might be easier to share among multiple people in a household, for example, or as your level of fitness and health changes over time. To measure exercise range, we factor in the range of treadmill speeds, incline range, stability, cushioning, and more.
Our user safety tests evaluate the accessibility of the emergency stop button, the workings of the safety key, the security of folding models, and more.
We also perform a durability test using a custom test fixture built by CR test engineers. We have two of these rigs—dubbed Johnnie Walker Red and Johnnie Walker Black—each consisting of a giant rotating metal drum covered in "legs" with "feet" simulating a runner’s shoe that run along each treadmill. For full-sized treadmills, this is a 25-hour test, where the machine runs in cycles of 1 hour on and 30 minutes off, simulating half a year of use. For under-desk treadmills, we run this test for 12 hours.
All these test results are compiled into our full treadmill ratings and recommendations.
‘How We Test Treadmills’ Video
Choosing the Right Treadmill
First, think about your fitness objectives. Whether it’s enhanced athletic performance, general health and fitness, or rehabilitation, knowing how you will use your treadmill can help you identify which model to buy.
It’s especially important to consider whether you plan to use the treadmill for running, some running and some walking, or only for walking. If it’s the latter, you may be able to find an especially good deal: Some less expensive models that do not work for runners may be perfectly suitable for people who plan on using the machine only for walking.
Next, consider your budget. Investing in a more expensive machine gets you sturdier construction, a longer parts warranty, a larger running surface, higher top speeds, and steeper inclines. But if your goals don’t require the latest and greatest, you’re likely to be just as satisfied with a less expensive model.
Try It Before You Buy It
If you can do so, trying out a treadmill in person is ideal. Here’s our try-before-you-buy checklist:
• Does the cushioning and shock absorption of the running deck feel comfortable?
• When you walk or run, do your feet hit the motor housing?
• Can you easily straddle the deck when standing on the side rails?
• Is the display monitor easy to read?
• Are the controls easy to reach and operate?
Four Factors to Keep in Mind
• Size: Most treadmills have a similar footprint—on average, 77 inches long by 35 inches wide. While folding treadmills can help you save some space, many of the sturdier and higher-rated ones still have a fairly large footprint. Plus, you’ll need adequate empty space around the treadmill for access and safety when it’s in use.
• Ergonomics: If you’re a runner, you will need a deck length that accommodates your stride. Consider how comfortable you are on the machine while walking and running. Choose a model that appeals to you ergonomically and aesthetically.
• Connected features: Docks for smartphones, USB ports, and wireless internet connectivity are standard features on many treadmills.
• Adjustability: Most treadmills have top speeds between 10 and 12 mph; some will go faster. They typically incline between a 10 and 15 percent grade, but some offer an increased gradient.
What About Under-Desk Treadmills?
Under-desk treadmills, aka walking pads, are very basic, lightweight treadmills. They typically have no display and no adjustable incline, and are designed solely for walking. Their portability and low footprint can make them very appealing to people who spend hours working at desks and would like to have less sedentary time in the day.
But our tests of these products have found that many have safety problems or issues with poor build quality and ability to accommodate different users. We’ve only found one that we recommend, and it’s the one that in size and price is most like a traditional treadmill.
For these reasons, our testers advise consumers to be wary of these products. While there are many inexpensive options in this category, many might not last long enough to boost your long-term fitness.
Other Purchase Considerations
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, here are some other things to consider before making the purchase.
Weight and assembly: Treadmills are heavy, so ask about delivery. Check whether assembly, tricky even for experienced DIYers, is included or available at an additional cost.
Warranty: When it comes to the warranty, look for three to seven years of coverage on parts and at least one year on labor. Most treadmills have a lifetime warranty on the frame, and you should get that for the motor as well.
Returns: Confirm the store’s return policy. Even if it will take back the treadmill, you might have to pay for the store to retrieve it, and you might be charged restocking fees. If you purchase online, find out how return shipping is handled.
Buying Guide Video
For more, watch our video below.
Treadmill Types
Motorized treadmills are based on the same fundamental design premise: a moving belt powered by an electric motor.
Folding Treadmills
There’s a wide variety of folding treadmills available. Many of the cheaper models will take up less space, but they generally have shorter decks and are less sturdy, better for walking than for running. However, many of our recommended folding treadmills are fully featured and adequate for runners as well as for walkers, with a good range of exercise programs, including heart rate control setups. Some come with a chest strap heart rate monitor.
Pros: You can get a fully featured folding model that may still help you save a little space.
Cons: The deck on some models may be too short for runners with a longer stride.
Non-Folding Treadmills
These treadmills offer a sturdier deck and frame, a longer running belt, and a larger running surface.
Pros: These are the best choice for frequent runners and are constructed of heavier, more robust materials. Integrated heart rate control programs, higher max speeds, and steeper max inclines are typical. They are rated for heavier people and come with the longest warranties.
Cons: It may seem odd, but these pricey models sometimes have fewer built-in programs. When every square foot counts, space considerations are non-negotiable.
Under-Desk Treadmills
These are very basic, lightweight machines that are meant for just walking.
Pros: The ability to get some exercise while you are working is appealing for many who spend hours every day at a desk. These are simple machines that are easy to use and typically don’t require assembly. They also tend to have a smaller footprint and may be easier to store in small spaces.
Cons: Many of these products appear to be very cheaply constructed, with poor build quality. There are safety issues with many of these products—plus, some workplaces do not allow them for liability reasons. Many are made by lesser-known manufacturers without a history of treadmill manufacture, and might not have good support options. Ergonomics make many of these not a great fit for a wide range of users.
Treadmill Features
Treadmill manufacturers look for ways to make exercise less monotonous and more interesting. Your task: Decide which features you need, and avoid paying for options you don’t care about.
For example, consider your training style. Do you need to be distracted from your workout, or do you enjoy planning your fitness regimen and creating physical challenges? If it’s the former, entertainment features and automated programs might take priority. Otherwise, features such as max speed, incline settings, heart rate monitoring, and interval programs should take precedence.
Remember, a treadmill is merely a tool to make strides toward your cardio-fitness and health goals. Keep those objectives in mind to help identify features that are most important to you.
Built-In Exercise Programs
This useful feature can automatically vary the intensity of your workout by changing the speed or incline. You can also make adjustments manually. Exercise programs can be an antidote to boredom and may encourage you to stick with your exercise routine.
Heart Rate Monitor
A chest strap heart rate monitor is typically not included with treadmills that cost less than $1,000, though most treadmills usually have a handgrip heart rate monitor. A heart rate monitor helps you track the intensity of your exercise. A chest strap monitor is convenient, can give you a more accurate and consistent reading, and allows you to continually monitor your heart rate without having to reach for the handgrip sensors.
Controls and Consoles
Look for well-labeled, intuitive controls: up/down buttons, quick one-touch speed and incline buttons, and large, easy-to-read displays that show multiple functions (time, speed, heart rate, incline) at once. Some models come with dials that users can spin to quickly and easily adjust speed and incline. Avoid models with poorly designed controls and displays.
Tethered Safety Key
All models have a safety key. You need to insert a key into the console to start the treadmill. The key comes attached to a long cord, with a clip to attach to your clothing. If you were to slip and fall, the cord would pull out the key and stop the treadmill belt. The cord should be short enough to disengage the key if you are near the end of the running belt. It can also be removed and stored separately to keep children from accidentally starting the machine.
Handrails and Footrails
Most treadmills have handrails at the front and sides of the machine. Padding is a plus. While handrails can be useful for those who need extra stability, make sure the rails don’t impede your natural arm motion during exercise. Look for wide and flat footrails alongside the moving belt. Ample footrails make it easier to get on and off the treadmill safely.
Motor Housing
The treadmill’s motor housing should be set far enough forward so that it doesn’t get in the way of your feet when you’re exercising. A concave shape to the motor housing that tapers to the front of the belt is ideal.
Internet Connectivity and Mobile Apps
Many treadmills can access the internet, allowing you to join a group fitness class, hit the virtual trail via Google Maps, or create a personalized track meet. Other models use mobile apps and have touchscreen displays. Consider the mobile apps or connected functionality that expands the capability of your treadmill and allows you to track your workout history. Be aware of the terms of use describing how the manufacturer can use your personal data.
Built-In Exercise Programs
This useful feature can automatically vary the intensity of your workout by changing the speed or incline. You can also make adjustments manually. Exercise programs can be an antidote to boredom and may encourage you to stick with your exercise routine.
Treadmill Brands
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