Last Update: November 25, 2024
Are you running on a gravel road or is that just the sound of your knees bending? Let’s find a treadmill that cushions the impact of your steps.
Treadmill cushioning can impact your biomechanics, changing how you run or walk. A treadmill with soft cushioning can absorb more shock, but a firm treadmill may feel more stable and encourage you to land more softly (less stiffly). Treadmills with more cushioning may also have a higher deck to accommodate their shocks, but this design may make it harder for walkers and runners with bad knees to step up onto their decks.
As a biomechanist, I understand that there’s a lot that goes into knee rehabilitation, so none of these treadmills are going to be a cure for your knee injury. But, hopefully, they can provide more comfort and support during your return to training. With that said, let’s check out the best treadmills for bad knees.
Here’s Our List of the Best Treadmills for Bad Knees
- NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
- Sole F80 Treadmill
- NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
- Horizon T101 Treadmill
- Echelon Stride-6s Treadmill
- NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
- AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 is a premium treadmill with excellent cushioning. It is an excellent treadmill for walkers or runners who train daily and need more shock absorption to help them hit their weekly mileage. If your training is not as intense or your budget is a bit more restrictive, consider the 1750 or the 1250, the other treadmills in this series.
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 is a powerful running treadmill with a softly cushioned folding deck.
If you are looking for soft cushioning on a folding treadmill, the 2450 is one of the best options. The 2450’s running deck absorbs shock and adds spring to your step. If you are returning from an injury, the 2450 makes running feel easier and helps you reach your goals. If your knee injury makes running outdoors impossible, the 2450 provides an alternative that may work for you.
The 2450 has a 22” x 60” running deck. The motor is 4.25 CHP and should support regular running use. The deck’s incline range is -3% to 12%. The 2450 is also a fairly quiet treadmill with smooth speed and incline transitions. This treadmill is even better when you add an iFIT membership, accessible through the built-in 24” touchscreen display.
iFIT provides all of the onscreen content for the NordicTrack 2450. iFIT is a digital fitness platform with thousands of classes from over a hundred different coaches. These classes are for the treadmill, other fitness equipment, and workouts without smart equipment.
Treadmill classes are mainly filmed outdoors on trails or other unique routes. The content lets you explore places you’ve dreamed of going to or even prepare for races like the Boston Marathon. iFIT is an awesome supplement to your treadmill training or a replacement for your whole gym membership.
+ PROS
- Super soft cushioned deck
- iFIT trainer-led classes
- 24” touchscreen
- -3% to 12% incline range
- 4.25 CHP motor
- Folding frame
– CONS
- Limited features without iFIT
- Fast speed changes may feel too abrupt
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Here
Sole F80 Treadmill
The Sole F80 Treadmill is one of our top treadmills for many reasons, but the firmness adds a nice contrast to our top treadmill’s cushioning. Softer isn’t always better, so some runners and walkers may need something a little more firm and stable. The F80 is more shock-absorbing than running on the road, but it is closer to that level of firmness and doesn’t feel bouncy at all.
The Sole F80’s running deck is spacious and accessible. The deck measures 22” x 60” and has a low step-up height. The deck is firm and does not feel springy like NordicTrack or ProForm treadmills do. This construction provides a more predictable step that may allow some runners and walkers to control their walking and running form better.
The low step-up height helps users with restricted mobility get onto the treadmill. Lastly, this treadmill’s wide and spacious deck accommodates users with a wide or long step.
The Sole F80 is a powerful treadmill. It has a 3.5 HP motor. The speed range is 0.5 to 12 mph. There are 15 levels of incline, but it does not decline. This treadmill is suitable for one long-distance runner or sharing among users who exercise less frequently/intensely.
You don’t need a subscription to train on the Sole F80. While Sole has an app, the Sole+ app, it does not require a subscription to access the content. The app has some trainer-led content, unlocked by a Sole machine.
The Sole F80 also has onboard content, including fitness tests, interval workouts, heart rate training, and user-defined programs. These programs can be customized to suit your fitness level and time constraints. Sole’s training is not restricted to what’s offered by the brand. The Sole F80’s 10-inch touchscreen display provides access to tons of content options.
Third-party apps come preloaded on the Sole F80. Most of these are entertainment apps such as Netflix, Hulu, and Prime. The Kinomap app provides virtual training content, structured workouts, and more. The app can even control the treadmill’s speed and incline levels.
That’s not all. The Sole F80 supports screen mirroring on Apple and Android devices. You can mirror content from any of your favorite training apps onto the F80. The training and entertainment options are practically limitless. Other features like Bluetooth speakers, a wireless charging pad, and a tablet rack ensure your training experience is great.
+ PROS
- 22” x 60”
- Preloaded training and entertainment apps
- 10” touchscreen
- No subscription required
- Bluetooth speakers, wireless charging, and a tablet rack
- 3.5 HP motor
– CONS
- Firm cushioning may not suit all knee injury types
- Sole+ classes aren’t as refined as iFIT classes
Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F80 Treadmill Here
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
Walking up an incline may feel like the worst thing for knees, but it’s not! At least, it’s great rehabilitation for many knee injuries. Walking at an incline trains knee extension even more intensely, strengthening the muscles around the knee joint. It’s provided me relief when I’ve struggled with chondromalacia and patellar tracking, and it might for you, too!
NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
The NordicTrack X24’s cushioned running deck inclines from -6% to 40%, offering a challenge and rehabilitation opportunity unlike any other.
The instant I feel any sort of pain in my knee, I hop on an incline treadmill or the stair climber. The reason I also consider the stair climber is that most treadmill decks aren’t steep enough to get the results I want. The NordicTrack X24, however, inclines all the way to 40%–that’s more than enough.
The NordicTrack X24 has a 22” x 60” running surface that’s every bit as cushioned as the top treadmill on this list: the NordicTrack 2450. It feels less bouncy than the previous incline trainers, which may not feel as fast for performance-minded exercisers, but it is the stability that runners and walkers with knee injuries may prefer.
I’ve been injured and through the difficult journey of returning to activity. The lingering pain and weakness can make getting through workouts difficult. Fortunately, the X24 has entertainment options like Netflix, Audible, Spotify, and other apps available to help you get through the tougher spots. I find using entertainment a helpful distraction and motivator when injured.
I recommend the NordicTrack X24 for exercisers who want a great recovery tool. They can pair it with an iFIT membership for additional training content.
+ PROS
- -6% to 40% incline range
- 22” x 60” soft running deck
- 24” tilting and rotating touchscreen
- Thousands of iFIT classes with a membership
- Incline handles
- Stable frame with 400-lb weight capacity
– CONS
- Large, non-folding frame
- More expensive than the other options on this list
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack X24i Treadmill Here
Horizon T101 Treadmill
The Horizon T101 is a brilliant budget treadmill with a sturdy design that offers great value for its price. The performance of a treadmill doesn’t matter if stepping up onto its deck is too much of a challenge. The Horizon T101 has a low step-up height, so it should be easier for more users to manage.
Horizon T101 Treadmill
The Horizon T101 is a walking treadmill with a step-up height of just over 7 inches. The T101 is affordable and has a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.
The Horizon T101 Treadmill is best for walking. It has a compact 20” x 55” deck. The step-up height is only about 7 inches, so users with limited mobility may have an easier time stepping onto this treadmill’s deck.
The motor is 2.5 HP, which is below our typical recommendation for running but perfect for walkers with a daily routine. The speed and incline ranges are limited to 0.5 to 10 mph and 0 to 10%, respectively. These ranges better reflect the T101’s capabilities than the traditional treadmill settings.
As a budget treadmill, the Horizon T101 is a great value. A subscription is not required to use the onboard training programs. There’s not a touchscreen, so the content is much simpler. The training programs include calories, distance, fat burn, hill climb, and intervals. The T101 has a tablet rack, so you can stream training or entertainment content on your personal device.
The speakers are Bluetooth, so you can pair your audio. I prefer listening to my device audio because the T101’s audio is not very loud. There’s also a USB charging port to keep your device charged no matter how long you plan to train on the treadmill.
The Horizon T101’s console has quick adjust buttons for speed and incline, but you can also use the Easy Dial controls. These dials spin forward or backward at the swipe of your hand to adjust the treadmill settings. Horizon has some of the fastest speed and incline transitions.
The T101 folds compactly when not in use. It uses Horizon’s FeatherLight Folding mechanism to softly lower the deck when you are ready to train again. Lifetime warranties cover the frame and motor. We are pleased with this warranty for such a nice and affordable treadmill.
+ PROS
- 7.125” step-up height
- Affordable price
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Tablet rack and USB charging
- No subscription required
- Compact folding frame
– CONS
- The T101 is not suitable for running.
- The basic console and features may not appeal to all exercisers
Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon T101 Treadmill Here
Echelon Stride-6s Treadmill
You won’t find a more unique treadmill on this list than the Echelon Stride-6s. It folds flat and stores vertically, but you can keep it horizontal, too. It has a low step-up height and moderate cushioning. I like the Echelon Stride-6s for exercisers who need a compact machine and want guided training content.
Echelon Stride-6s Treadmill
The Echelon Stride-6s Treadmill has a compact folding design and fun training content for beginner to intermediate exercisers.
I like the Echelon Stride-6s Treadmill for exercisers with bad knees as long as they can keep the deck flat on the ground for storage instead of upright. Storing the treadmill upright requires you to lift 90 lbs from the floor, which can be challenging. I like that folding the treadmill is easy, as the console and uprights collapse without you needing to bend down.
An Echelon membership grants you access to all the training content available on the built-in touchscreen. Echelon classes are trainer-led, with themed music radio stations playing along with them. They have live and on-demand training options. If you are feeling competitive, keep track of your placement on the class leaderboard.
You can also access nearly thirty entertainment and social media apps on the touchscreen. Some of my favorites include Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube. Echelon also has a virtual training app: Echelon Worlds. This app is similar to Zwift in that the treadmill speed controls your avatar as you run along a course.
Walkers and runners should check out the Echelon Stride-6s if they want a flat-folding treadmill with many content options.
+ PROS
- The console folds flat to the deck
- Trainer-led classes
- Netflix, Spotify, YouTube, and more
- Bluetooth audio and heart rate
- Can be stored flat or upright
- Virtual running game
– CONS
- It may not be as cushioned as some exercisers may prefer
- Heavy to lift upright
Read Our Full Review Of The Echelon Stride-6s Treadmill Here
NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
Soft cushioning and a compact folding frame make the NordicTrack EXP 10i an appealing treadmill. If your running days behind you, you might not need one of the more powerful machines on this list. The EXP 10i is suitable for walking and light running.
NordicTrack EXP 10i
The soft cushioning of the NordicTrack EXP 10i makes it a great choice for walkers with bad knees.
NordicTrack is the top home treadmill brand for soft cushioning. The NordicTrack EXP 10i has a 20” x 55” running deck cushioned with shock absorbers. It has a 2.75 CHP motor. These specs make it great for walking, but it may not provide the space and power needed for running. It only goes up to 10 mph, but most exercisers will probably be more comfortable at 8.0 mph or slower.
The EXP 10i pairs with the iFIT fitness platform. You need an active subscription to train with these classes, which are super engaging. iFIT classes automatically adjust the treadmill incline and speed to match the coach’s cues. Classes are available for all ability levels, whether you want to walk, hike, or run.
The folding frame makes the EXP 10i very easy to store. The deck is quite light, so it isn’t too hard to lift. The deck also has a hydraulic kick release to make folding and unfolding easier. When released, the deck softly lowers to the ground on its own.
I recommend the NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill for anyone who wants guided classes and a nice, cushioned treadmill deck.
+ PROS
- Soft cushioning
- iFIT trainer-led classes
- 10” touchscreen display
- Tablet rack
- 0 to 12% incline range
- Compact folding frame
– CONS
- Limited features without iFIT
- The folding mechanism may be challenging for some users with knee pain to manage
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill Here
AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill
The AssaultRunner Pro is a manual treadmill. It does not require electricity to work. It has a simple console that does not offer training content. There’s no limit to its speed capabilities. You control and power the AssaultRunner Pro. The reason we have singled it out from other manual treadmills is its belt design. The curved belt has advantages over its competitors caused, in part, by its steep curvature.
AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill
The AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill is cushioned, provides incline training, and moves easier than other manual treadmills.
The AssaultRunner Pro is a manual treadmill with a curved belt. Because you are moving the belt and running at a slight incline, the AssaultRunner Pro strengthens the muscles working at the knee joint. It can help runners and walkers with some types of knee injuries.
The slat belt is very cushioned and shock absorbing even though it does not have the bounce of other treadmills. The Pro provides a difficult workout that can help athletes build stronger bodies. The belt has a rubbery texture that is soft enough that you can even run on it barefoot if you prefer. The belt has a 150,000-mile warranty. The construction is high quality.
A steel construction makes the AssaultRunner an incredibly sturdy treadmill. The AssaultRunner is a large and heavy machine. It does not fold and will need a dedicated space in your home.
The AssaultRunner Pro has a simplistic console. The console is Bluetooth and ANT+ enabled to pair it with a heart rate monitor for training. The console has heart rate, interval, and target programs. The light indicators are labeled ‘Rest’ and ‘Work’ to help you execute interval workouts at a glance.
The console training doesn’t demonstrate the Pro’s full advantages. The unlimited speed capabilities allow you to perform speed workouts that are not easy to perform on a motorized treadmill.
+ PROS
- The belt is easier to turn than other manual treadmills
- The difficulty of a manual treadmill may help strengthen muscles that cross the knee joint
- Cushioned slat belt
- 150,000-mile belt warranty
- Bluetooth and ANT+ enabled
- No motor means no speed limit and no electricity required.
– CONS
- Not budget-friendly
- The increased difficulty may be discouraging for some
Read Our Full Review Of The AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill Here
Factors To Consider When Finding The Best Treadmill For Bad Knees
Cushioning
Do you need a treadmill with a lot of cushioning? Are you preparing to return to outdoor activity? There are a lot of considerations to make when it comes to deciding on the right treadmill and cushioning.
Soft cushioning is better at shock absorbing. Many treadmills with soft cushioning are also great at making your steps bouncy. A soft and springy treadmill may feel nicer underfoot. It can also help walkers and runners increase their pace or mileage more comfortably.
A firm treadmill may feel more stable underfoot. It is also a great intermediary for returning to walking and running outdoors. Even firm running treadmills are usually softer than concrete or asphalt. A firm treadmill can help walkers and runners maintain their running form without the deck moving so much beneath them. These decks are also typically lower to the ground.
Step-Up Height
The step-up height of a treadmill is important because users with limited mobility may find lower decks easy to navigate. If your knee injury or other injuries limit your range of motion, consider a treadmill with a lower deck height.
Additional considerations for users with limited mobility are the treadmill handles. Most of the treadmills on this list offer support for users who need help stepping on and off the treadmill. The Echelon Stride is the only treadmill on this list that has a console not suited to supporting the user’s weight. Fortunately, it does have a low step-up height.
Folding
A folding treadmill can save you a lot of space, but the folding process can be difficult to manage. Sole and Horizon treadmills may be harder to fold because their decks are heavy. Hydraulic and gas shock assistance can make lowering the deck much easier, but lifting the deck may still be difficult.
If you do choose a heavier folding treadmill, be careful to keep good form when lifting the treadmill deck back into place–your knees will thank you!
Incline
Incline and decline training have benefits for runners and walkers with knee injuries. Adding an incline or decline to your routine can help activate the muscles that act across the knee joint to build strength. Incline and decline capabilities can also help runners and walkers overcome a challenge: hills. Treadmills allow you to support yourself, whereas you may not be able to do so outdoors.
Training Content
Training content may not be the most integral part of your treadmill decision regarding knee pain. However, many treadmill training platforms also provide content for strength training and yoga. These classes can help you build muscle and increase your flexibility to help your knee pain.
The additional monthly subscription may be worth it to some but not to others. Consider how integral a premium training platform is to the treadmill’s performance because you may end up with too many useless features if you do not subscribe.
Bottom Line – Best Treadmills For Bad Knees
Bad knees encompass many types of knee injuries. It is a hard obstacle to overcome, but these treadmills can help you take on some of the most obvious obstacles. Treadmills provide more cushioning than running outdoors on the road, but whether you want a treadmill that’s firmer or softer may be up to your specific injury.
Other factors like treadmill deck height, training options, and folding mechanisms may help you make your decision. We’ve done our best to recommend treadmills that we think are most suited for use with knee pain and injury, highlighting the NordicTrack 2450 as our favorite. Your doctor or physical therapist may be able to provide more specific information on what type of treadmill will work best in your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a treadmill good for bad knees?
Treadmills provide more shock absorption than your neighborhood sidewalks because they have soft decks with built-in shocks. Treadmills also allow users to support themselves with the handles. A treadmill may also help users feel more confident training at a slower pace.
Returning from injury is tough, and treadmills allow users to keep the rehab more private if they want. However, walking and running both challenge the knees. Severe knee injuries may require users to pursue other activities that are not weight-bearing. Ellipticals and exercise bikes may be better options in some cases.
Which treadmill is easy on the knees?
The NordicTrack 2450 was our pick for its really soft cushioning. However, this entire list contains treadmills that are easier on the knees for different reasons. Generally, NordicTrack and ProForm treadmills are soft. Sole treadmills are firm. The Horizon treadmills fall somewhere in the middle and have low step-up heights.
Most treadmills will complement your training if you take the time to do additional rehabilitation exercises and work on keeping proper form while walking or running. One thing I have learned from testing treadmills is how much my shoes can change my experience on a treadmill. Make sure that your shoes are also a good fit for you and your knee problems so that your treadmill training will go as smoothly as possible.
Is a treadmill incline good for bad knees?
Incline training can be a good option for some knee injuries. I can speak anecdotally about how incline training has helped me every time I have struggled with chondromalacia, aka “runner’s knee.” However, it is of the utmost importance that you maintain proper form and joint alignment. This might require training at a much slower pace than you are used to.
For other users, including those with runner’s knee, incline training may be too much of a trigger for their pain. It can also exacerbate the problem when improper form is used. The right type of training for your injury depends on the cause and type of your injury.