12 Best Treadmills for Walking

Walking treadmills can benefit a person’s overall health. The best treadmills for walking feature adjustable speeds and incline levels and offer access to exercise classes.
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A quick look at the best treadmills for walking
Best overall: NordicTrack New Commercial 2450 | Skip to review
NordicTrack New Commercial 2450
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Value for money: Horizon T101 Treadmill | Skip to review
Horizon T101 Treadmill
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Best space-saving: ProForm City L6 | Skip to review
ProForm City L6
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For fitness app compatibility: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill | Skip to review
Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
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Best auto-folding: Echelon Stride | Skip to review
Echelon Stride
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For reducing stress on joints: Schwinn 810 Treadmill | Skip to review
Schwinn 810 Treadmill
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For heavier individuals: Bowflex Treadmill 10 | Skip to review
Bowflex Treadmill 10
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Best under-desk: Go Plus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill | Skip to review
Go Plus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
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For incline range: NordicTrack New Commercial X22i | Skip to review
NordicTrack New Commercial X22i
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For access to classes: Peloton Tread | Skip to review
Peloton Tread
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Best manual treadmill: Sunny Health and Fitness Manual | Skip to review
Sunny Health and Fitness Manual
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Easiest assembly: Urevo 2-in-1 under desk treadmill | Skip to review
Urevo 2-in-1 under desk treadmill
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. This can include brisk walking.
150 minutes
A treadmill may help a person achieve this physical activity goal.
This article looks at some of the best treadmills for walking. It discusses who treadmills may be suitable for and how effective they may be. It also provides a list of products a person can consider and answers some frequently asked questions.
The best treadmills for walking in 2024
Below is a list of some of the best treadmills for walking a person may consider purchasing online.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here

NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

Speed: 0–12 mph (0–19.3 kph)
Display type: HD swiveling touch screen
Subscription required: yes
Monthly subscription cost: $39
Price: $2,999.00
SHOP NOW AT NORDICTRACK
*Price may vary.
This treadmill features a variety of smart features, including a 22-in touch screen, allowing users to stream workouts. It also has premium audio speakers and Bluetooth connectivity so a person can connect to their own music.
The speed ranges from 0–12 miles per hour (mph), and the incline ranges from -3–15%.
This treadmill offers a range of features that will make it suitable for people of varying experience levels.
It is adjustable for uphill and downhill walks and has a high weight limit. Additionally, the wide range of workout sessions users can choose from means that this model may appeal to multiple users, such as family members with different exercise goals and interests.
 
space-saving design, as it is foldable
iFit membership for 30 days
suitable for different fitness levels
higher price than competitors
screen may shake during workouts
space-saving design, as it is foldable
iFit membership for 30 days
suitable for different fitness levels
higher price than competitors
screen may shake during workouts
Item dimensions: 78.5 x 35.6 x 65 in (199.4 x 90.4 x 165.1 cm)
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
Incline: -3–15%
Running deck: 22 × 60 in (55.9 × 152.4 cm)
Screen size: 22 in (55.9-cm)
Training programs: live and on-demand classes using iFit
Compatible apps: iFIT, Google Maps
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Item dimensions: 78.5 x 35.6 x 65 in (199.4 x 90.4 x 165.1 cm)
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
Incline: -3–15%
Running deck: 22 × 60 in (55.9 × 152.4 cm)
Screen size: 22 in (55.9-cm)
Training programs: live and on-demand classes using iFit
Compatible apps: iFIT, Google Maps
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Horizon T101 Treadmill

Speed: 0.5–10 mph
Display type: LED console
Subscription required: no
Price: $999.00
SHOP NOW AT HORIZON FITNESS
*Price may vary.
This foldable treadmill has shock-absorbing three-zone cushioning support to help relieve pressure on the joints. It also features Bluetooth speakers and a device holder to allow a person to play audio and watch a tablet or phone screen while walking, meaning they can follow a fitness class if they wish.
The speed range is 0.5–10 mph, and the incline range is 0–10%.
Positive reviews state that the treadmill can be a good investment for persons who are into home workouts. Some claim they did not receive their order on time, and the company did not provide shipping updates.
monthly payments available
white glove delivery
30-day refund policy
possible shipping delays
some reviewers state their treadmills arrived defective
monthly payments available
white glove delivery
30-day refund policy
possible shipping delays
some reviewers state their treadmills arrived defective
Item dimensions: 71 x 34 x 57 in
Required space: 71 x 34 x 57 in
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb
Incline: 0–10%
Running deck: 20 x 55 in
Training programs: Calorie, Distance, Fat Burn, Hill Climb, Intervals, Manual
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 1-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Item dimensions: 71 x 34 x 57 in
Required space: 71 x 34 x 57 in
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb
Incline: 0–10%
Running deck: 20 x 55 in
Training programs: Calorie, Distance, Fat Burn, Hill Climb, Intervals, Manual
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 1-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

ProForm City L6 Treadmill

Speed: 0–8 mph
Display type: LED console
Subscription required: no
Monthly subscription cost: $39
Price: $599.00
SHOP NOW AT PROFORM
*Price may vary.
This foldable treadmill includes a 30-day iFit membership, giving a person access to personal trainer sessions. The ProForm City L6 does not include a screen but has a tablet holder.
The speed ranges from 0–8 mph. The incline level is not adjustable.
Only two reviews on the product page state that the treadmill is easy to set up but does not connect to Apple Watch.
supports personal trainer sessions
30-day iFit membership trial
foldable design to save space
no adjustable incline levels
holds the P65 warning label, as it may contain chemicals that may increase a person’s risk of developing cancer
supports personal trainer sessions
30-day iFit membership trial
foldable design to save space
no adjustable incline levels
holds the P65 warning label, as it may contain chemicals that may increase a person’s risk of developing cancer
Item dimensions: 70.25 x 29 x 44.5 in
Required space: 70.25 x 29 x 44.5 in
Maximum weight capacity: 250 lb
Incline: 0–0%
Running deck: 17.5 x 45 in
Compatible apps: iFIT
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 10-year frame, 1-year parts and labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Item dimensions: 70.25 x 29 x 44.5 in
Required space: 70.25 x 29 x 44.5 in
Maximum weight capacity: 250 lb
Incline: 0–0%
Running deck: 17.5 x 45 in
Compatible apps: iFIT
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 10-year frame, 1-year parts and labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

Speed: 0.5–12 mph
Display type: LED console
Subscription required: no
Monthly subscription cost: $0
Price: $1,999.00
SHOP NOW AT HORIZON FITNESS
*Price may vary.
This treadmill features an LED touch screen which a person can use to connect to various fitness apps. It also has Bluetooth speakers, a Bluetooth chest strap, and multi-position device holders. The chest strap monitors the user’s heart rate as they exercise.
The speed ranges from 0.5–12 mph, and the incline ranges from 0–15%.
can integrate with external fitness apps
LED touch screen
monitors heart rate
may be heavier and bulkier than competitors
difficult to integrate Bluetooth with some apps
can integrate with external fitness apps
LED touch screen
monitors heart rate
may be heavier and bulkier than competitors
difficult to integrate Bluetooth with some apps
Item dimensions: 76 x 37 x 64 in
Required space: 76 x 37 x 64 in
Maximum weight capacity: 375 lb
Incline: 0–15%
Running deck: 22 x 60 in
Screen size: 9.3 in
Training programs: 5K, Calorie, Custom, Custom HR, Distance, Fat Burn, Heart Rate, Hill Climb, Manual, Sprint 8
Compatible apps: Streaming and fitness apps
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 5-years parts, 2-years labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Item dimensions: 76 x 37 x 64 in
Required space: 76 x 37 x 64 in
Maximum weight capacity: 375 lb
Incline: 0–15%
Running deck: 22 x 60 in
Screen size: 9.3 in
Training programs: 5K, Calorie, Custom, Custom HR, Distance, Fat Burn, Heart Rate, Hill Climb, Manual, Sprint 8
Compatible apps: Streaming and fitness apps
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 5-years parts, 2-years labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

Echelon Stride Treadmill

Speed: 0.5–12 mph
Display type: LED console
Subscription required: no
Monthly subscription cost: from $29.16
Price: $1,299.99
SHOP NOW AT ECHELON
*Price may vary.
The Echelon Stride treadmill folds up at the touch of a button. The running deck is impact-absorbing, and the treadmill includes a smart device holder.
Live and on-demand classes are also available, but a person must pay extra for this and view these classes via their own device.
The speed range is 0–12 mph, and there are 12 incline levels.
According to reviews, Echolon’s treadmill can fit in any workout space. It is foldable, and a person can store it under their bed or against the wall.
However, it can be a bit noisy when increasing the incline.
space-saving design
12 incline levels
on-demand classes available 24/7
no screen for watching classes
does not come with the tablet
may be a bit noisy
space-saving design
12 incline levels
on-demand classes available 24/7
no screen for watching classes
does not come with the tablet
may be a bit noisy
Item dimensions: 69 x 31 x 49 in
Required space: 69 x 31 x 49 in
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb
Incline: 0-12%
Running deck: 55 x 20 in
Training programs: 8 programmed workouts
Compatible apps: Echelon Fit
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 1-year parts and labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Item dimensions: 69 x 31 x 49 in
Required space: 69 x 31 x 49 in
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb
Incline: 0-12%
Running deck: 55 x 20 in
Training programs: 8 programmed workouts
Compatible apps: Echelon Fit
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 1-year parts and labor
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill

Incline: 0 – 10%
Speed: 10 MPH
Subscription required: no
Subscription fee: free, additional routes at a fee of $9.99
Foldable : yes
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
At the time of publication, the Schwinn Fitness 810 treadmill was listed at a price of $897.97.
This treadmill features an Explore the World app. The app allows runners to check out global destinations in real-time at their own speed for a monthly subscription fee.
The treadmill also features 16 workout programs, two user profiles, and an integrated heart rate contact grip, so runners can keep track of their fitness level as they run at various speeds and inclines.
The treadmill has a 0–10% incline and a running belt that is 20 x 55 in.
It has a manufacturer’s warranty of 10 years for the motor and frame, 1 year for mechanical and electronics, and 1 year for labor.
Reviews are mostly positive. Customers say the treadmill is quiet, high quality, and easy to assemble.
However, other customers report that the treadmill stopped working after a couple of months, and technical support was not very helpful in resolving the problem. Other customers have had to replace the control panel, which stopped working a few weeks after purchase.
runners can explore destinations around the world in real-time via the Explore the World app
16 workout programs and 2 user profiles
built-in fan
USB port to keep phones and tablets fully charged
reviews say technical support can be unhelpful in resolving problems
maximum speed of 10 mph
maximum user weight is 275 Ib, so may be unsuitable for people with higher body weights
runners can explore destinations around the world in real-time via the Explore the World app
16 workout programs and 2 user profiles
built-in fan
USB port to keep phones and tablets fully charged
reviews say technical support can be unhelpful in resolving problems
maximum speed of 10 mph
maximum user weight is 275 Ib, so may be unsuitable for people with higher body weights
Item dimensions: 69.1 x 35.6 x 56.7 in
Maximum weight capacity: 275 lb
Running deck: 55 x 20 in
Display type: Blue backlit display
Screen size: 20 in
Training programs: Training app
Compatible apps: Explore the World
Bluetooth: yes
Warranty: 10-year motor and frame, 1-year mechanical and electrical, 1-year labor
Price: $$
Item dimensions: 69.1 x 35.6 x 56.7 in
Maximum weight capacity: 275 lb
Running deck: 55 x 20 in
Display type: Blue backlit display
Screen size: 20 in
Training programs: Training app
Compatible apps: Explore the World
Bluetooth: yes
Warranty: 10-year motor and frame, 1-year mechanical and electrical, 1-year labor
Price: $$

Bowflex Treadmill 10

Incline: -5–15%
Speed: 0–12 mph
Display type: HD touchscreen
Subcription required: no
Monthly subscription: $19.99
Price: $2,299.00
SHOP NOW AT BOWFLEX
*Price may vary.
This product has a high maximum weight capacity of 400 lb. It also has an HD touchscreen that allows access to apps such as Netflix and Disney Plus. The treadmill can fold up to save on storage space.
The treadmill’s speed goes up to 12 mph, and its incline levels range from -5–15%.
This treadmill has positive and negative reviews. Its assembly instructions are easy to follow and comes with different workout programs. Some customers had issues with the operating system and had to restart it multiple times.
high weight capacity
wide incline range
90-day returns
foldable design
price is higher than its competitors
difficult to assemble
may have difficulty syncing with some fitness apps
high weight capacity
wide incline range
90-day returns
foldable design
price is higher than its competitors
difficult to assemble
may have difficulty syncing with some fitness apps
Item dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 in
Required space: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 in
Maximum weight capacity: 400 lb
Running deck: 22 x 60 in
Screen size: 10 in
Compatible apps: JRNY
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 15-years frame and motor, 5-years mechanical parts, 1-year electronics, 2-years labor
Returns: full refund within 6 weeks
Shipping: free shipping
Item dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 in
Required space: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 in
Maximum weight capacity: 400 lb
Running deck: 22 x 60 in
Screen size: 10 in
Compatible apps: JRNY
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 15-years frame and motor, 5-years mechanical parts, 1-year electronics, 2-years labor
Returns: full refund within 6 weeks
Shipping: free shipping

Go Plus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

Speed: 0.6–7.4 mph
Display type: LED display
Subcription required: no
Price: $299.99
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.
This folding treadmill comes in seven color options. A person can also choose whether to use it as an under-desk treadmill or as a running treadmill. It has Bluetooth connectivity, so it can connect to a person’s smart devices.
When a person uses it as an under-desk treadmill, the speed ranges from 0–2.4 mph. If a person uses it as a running treadmill, the speed can increase to 7.45 mph.
affordable compared to competitors
small footprint
customer service available 24/7
low weight capacity
no incline
low running speed
affordable compared to competitors
small footprint
customer service available 24/7
low weight capacity
no incline
low running speed
Item dimensions: 49 x 27 x 42 in
Required space: 49 x 27 x 42 in
Maximum weight capacity: 265 lb
Running deck: 40 x 16 in
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 3 months
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Item dimensions: 49 x 27 x 42 in
Required space: 49 x 27 x 42 in
Maximum weight capacity: 265 lb
Running deck: 40 x 16 in
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 3 months
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill

Incline: -6–40%
Speed: 0–12 mph (0–19.3 kph)
Display type: HD touch screen
Subscription required: yes
Monthly subscription cost: $39.00
Price: $3,499.00
SHOP NOW AT NORDICTRACK
*Price may vary.
The NordicTrack X22i has an incline and decline range of -5–40%. The auto-adjusting technology changes the speed and incline to keep a person in their optimal heart rate zone.
The speed ranges from 0–12 mph.
 
auto-adjusting technology
30-day iFit trial
Bluetooth connectivity
price is higher than competitors
P65 warning label
auto-adjusting technology
30-day iFit trial
Bluetooth connectivity
price is higher than competitors
P65 warning label
Item dimensions: 70 × 39 × 72.5 in (177.8 × 99.1 × 184.2 cm)
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
Running deck: 22 × 60 in (55.9 × 152.4 cm)
Screen size: 22 in (55.9-cm)
Training programs: live and on-demand classes using iFit
Compatible apps: iFIT, Google Maps
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: no
Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Item dimensions: 70 × 39 × 72.5 in (177.8 × 99.1 × 184.2 cm)
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
Running deck: 22 × 60 in (55.9 × 152.4 cm)
Screen size: 22 in (55.9-cm)
Training programs: live and on-demand classes using iFit
Compatible apps: iFIT, Google Maps
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: no
Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: free returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Peloton Tread

Incline: 0–12.5 %
Speed: 0–12.5 mph
Display type: HD touchscreen
Subcription required: no
Monthly subscription: $12.99
Price: $1,199.99
SHOP NOW AT PELOTON
*Price may vary.
This treadmill from Peloton offers users thousands of classes in different disciplines. However, a person must sign up for a membership, costing $39 per month, to access these classes. These classes appear on the HD touch screen provided with the treadmill.
The speed ranges from 0.5–12.5 mph. Users can adjust the incline from 0–12.5%.
Positive reviewers note that the Peloton’s treadmill is easy to set up and the workouts it offers are motivating. There are also negative reviews stating that the device shakes during workouts, making it difficult to run on.
allows users to compare progress with other members and friends
30-day home trial
textured running belt
extra cost for Peloton membership and delivery and setup
not steady, especially when increasing incline
allows users to compare progress with other members and friends
30-day home trial
textured running belt
extra cost for Peloton membership and delivery and setup
not steady, especially when increasing incline
Item dimensions: 68 x 33 x 62 in
Required space: 68 x 33 x 62 in
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb
Running deck: 59 in
Screen size: 23.8 in
Training programs: yes
Compatible apps: Peloton App
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: no
Warranty: 12 months
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Item dimensions: 68 x 33 x 62 in
Required space: 68 x 33 x 62 in
Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb
Running deck: 59 in
Screen size: 23.8 in
Training programs: yes
Compatible apps: Peloton App
Bluetooth: yes
Foldable: no
Warranty: 12 months
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Sunny Health & Fitness Manual Walking Treadmill

Subcription required: no
Price: $169.97
SHOP NOW AT WALMART
*Price may vary.
This treadmill does not contain a motor, so it does not need electricity. A person powers it by walking on the belt. Because it lacks a motor, this treadmill is less expensive than most of its competitors.
However, the absence of a motor may mean a person does not benefit from the motion and power of the moving belt, which may make this treadmill harder for some to use.
The speed range of this treadmill will vary depending on the person powering it. The treadmill sits on a slight incline and cannot be adjusted.
The product has a 4.1 star out of 5 based on 191 reviews. Most of them praise its quality and claim that it may suit individuals who have a tight budget.
People may also consider reading negative critiques, which state that the treadmill has a lightweight design and may not feel secure.
affordable price compared to competitors
foldable design
30-day returns
may be harder for beginners to use
no adjustable incline
affordable price compared to competitors
foldable design
30-day returns
may be harder for beginners to use
no adjustable incline
Item dimensions: 49 x 23 x 50 in
Required space: 49 x 23 x 50 in
Maximum weight capacity: 220 lb
Running deck: 42 x 13 in
Display type: Digital monitor
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 1-year
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Item dimensions: 49 x 23 x 50 in
Required space: 49 x 23 x 50 in
Maximum weight capacity: 220 lb
Running deck: 42 x 13 in
Display type: Digital monitor
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 1-year
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Urevo 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill

Incline: None
Speed: 7.6 mph
Subscription required: no
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.
This 2-in-1 treadmill arrives fully assembled and can be used straight away. Its foldable design and wheels make it easy to store. Additionally, it can fit under a desk, so people can use it as a walking machine and exercise during their workday.
It has a maximum running speed of 7.6 mph and a maximum walking speed of 3.8 mph. It is powered by remote control.
This treadmill also features a 42.5 x 17-in running belt, which contains five layers of silica gel to absorb shock and cushion the knees, muscles, and joints.
The treadmill has a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty.
Reviews are mostly positive. Customers state that the treadmill is quiet and easy to move around the home and re-position. Others state it is solidly built and durable.
However, some customers say the treadmill lacks shock absorption, so they have had to add extra padding underneath. Others say it lacks technical features, such as displaying seconds alongside minutes, or a way to keep track of weekly total distance.
lightweight, easy to store
no assembly required
has a remote control to switch easily between calories burnt, speed, distance, and time
fits under a desk
unsuitable for high-speed running
can only withstand a maximum load of 265 Ib, so may not be suitable for people with higher body weights
minimal technical features
shorter manufacturer’s warranty than other brands
does not have an incline program
lightweight, easy to store
no assembly required
has a remote control to switch easily between calories burnt, speed, distance, and time
fits under a desk
unsuitable for high-speed running
can only withstand a maximum load of 265 Ib, so may not be suitable for people with higher body weights
minimal technical features
shorter manufacturer’s warranty than other brands
does not have an incline program
Item dimensions: 26.4 x 53.1 x 4.7
Maximum weight capacity: 265 lb
Running deck: 17 x 40 in
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 12 months
Price: $299.00
Item dimensions: 26.4 x 53.1 x 4.7
Maximum weight capacity: 265 lb
Running deck: 17 x 40 in
Foldable: yes
Warranty: 12 months
Price: $299.00
Comparing the best treadmills for walking
Below is a table comparing the treadmills for walking included in this article.
NordicTrack
Horizon T101
ProForm
Horizon 7.8 AT
Echelon
Schwinn
Bowflex
GoPlus
NordicTrack X22i
Peloton
Sunny Health and Fitness
Urevo
How to choose a walking treadmill
A few factors a person may wish to consider when choosing a treadmill for walking include:
Budget: There are many quality treadmills available at different price points. A person should consider their overall budget and choose a treadmill that offers a wide range of features and fits their ideal price range. A person should also consider any additional costs for memberships, payment schemes, and extra features they would like.
Weight capacity: Users with a high body weight should research the weight capacity before purchasing.
Settings: Speed ranges and incline settings may influence a person’s decision when purchasing a treadmill. For those who want to use their treadmill for walking, models with lower speed ranges may be adequate.
Warranty: A person should ensure they purchase from a company that provides a suitable warranty. Some brands may also offer an in-home trial.
Shock absorption: A person can check if the treadmill has shock absorption to reduce pressure on the joints.
What is a treadmill for walking?
A treadmill is a piece of equipment that allows a person to walk or run while staying in the same place. A person can use a treadmill at home or at a gym.
Users can often change the speed of the treadmill belt to increase their walking or running speed. They also may be able to increase the incline of the treadmill to simulate walking or running uphill.
How we chose the best walking treadmills
Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:
Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
Size and capacity: MNT selects products to suit people of different heights, weights, and strength levels.
Connectivity: For equipment that involves fitness memberships or subscriptions, MNT ensures variation in classes and services that benefit a person’s health.
Materials: MNT chooses products that have safe and durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.
Ease of use: MNT selects simple-to-use products that have clear instructions. If setup is complicated, MNT chooses brands that offer a setup or installation service.
Quality: MNT selects companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes that ensure its products are safe for personal use.
Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices and offer reliable customer service and support.
Who may benefit from a walking treadmill?
Treadmills can be suitable for many adults for daily exercise, injury rehabilitation, and athletic training. People of all experience levels can use a treadmill. As a person can start walking slowly and gradually increase their pace and distance, walking can be good for people who have not exercised before or have been sedentary for an extended period.
According to the advocacy organization Arthritis Foundation, the benefits of walking include:
include
improved circulation
improved circulation
weight loss
reduced risk of bone density loss
stronger muscles
stronger muscles
improved mood
improved mood
improved sleep
sleep
lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease
Walking can also benefit people with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) notes that walking at a brisk pace can lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. It can also improve a person’s insulin sensitivity.
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
low-density lipoprotein
insulin sensitivity
It is important to note that some treadmills may have a weight limit. People with high body weights should check the weight limit of their chosen treadmill to ensure that it is safe for them to use.
Treadmills are not safe for children to use, and research has found that children can be at risk of sustaining injuries. For example, researchers in a small 2020 study analyzed records of 12 children with hand abrasions from treadmills and found that this injury occurred after they touched the treadmill belt when it was in use.
small 2020 study
A person should also keep pets away from the treadmill when it is in use.
Do they work?
Treadmills are effective in allowing users to regularly participate in moderate aerobic activity. Aerobic activity makes the heart and lungs work harder than usual. This can increase the efficiency of the lungs, heart, circulatory system, and muscles.
increase
Aerobic exercise can also help a person burn calories and lose weight.
burn calories
lose weight
Additionally, treadmills can be part of a person’s rehabilitation after heart disease and can help prevent further heart damage, according to a 2018 study.
prevent
A 2021 study states that treadmill walking and overground walking can be effective for persons with chronic stroke. These can help with improving balance, motor function, and walking speed.
2021 study
Treadmills can be beneficial for people with neurological disorders as well. The authors of a 2020 study found that children with cerebral palsy can improve their gait and limb support time with treadmill training.
2020 study
When using a treadmill for walking, a person can choose the speed at which they walk. This means that treadmills can be suitable for people who need to build up their walking pace and duration slowly.
A treadmill provides a stable walking surface, and if a person has one at home, it can be a convenient way to take part in exercise each day. This can help people keep up with exercise plans.
Frequently asked questions about treadmills for walking
Below are some common questions about treadmills for walking.
People who wish to buy a treadmill for walking may consider various factors, such as:
speed ranges
budget
weight capacity
shock absorption features
Walking 30 minutes on a treadmill regularly can help a person obtain the 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity physical activity health experts recommend. This activity works the heart, lungs, and large muscle groups. It is a cardio workout that is accessible to people at all levels of fitness. The ADA recommends that new exercisers start by walking for roughly 15 minutes a few days a week and gradually build up to five 30-minute walking sessions per week. may also wish to start with a neutral incline to make their beginning exercise sessions easier.
150 minutes a week
ADA
Almost all treadmills are walking treadmills. A treadmill is a piece of equipment that allows a person to walk or run in place. Most treadmills allow users to select the speed at which the treadmill belt moves, which determines how fast the user moves. Different treadmills have different speed ranges. Most will offer walking speeds and running speeds.
Walking on a treadmill and the sidewalk both provide important health benefits, including a boost to cardiovascular health, stronger bones, and help with weight management. A 2021 study found that treadmill walking can be effective as overground walking. Walking on a treadmill may be easier on the joints than the sidewalk. However, researchers found that older adults may feel unstable after walking on a treadmill and may take time to adjust afterward.
stronger bones
weight management
2021 study
may feel unstable after walking
Summary
A variety of treadmills for walking are available on the U.S. market. Many include access to exercise classes, smart device connectivity, and a range of speed and incline settings that make them suitable for walking and running alike.
A person should consider their budget and the weight capacity, shock absorption, and warranty length of a treadmill before making a purchase.