Best Treadmills For Heavy People | High Weight Capacity

Last Update: November 18, 2024

More and more treadmills have exceeded the 300-lb industry standard weight limit. I consider this a huge win because it makes home fitness accessible for more users. It also means treadmills have higher quality materials like a thick running deck, reinforced frames, and more durable shocks.

While some treadmill brands make bold claims about their weight capacities, others truly feel as sturdy as they claim to be. I’ve identified the best of the best for walkers and runners who need a better-than-average weight capacity. A durable design can still create a treadmill with fun training, entertainment content, and impressive performance features.

Many of these treadmills are personal favorites of mine, so keep reading to find out which treadmills are best for your requirements.

Here’s Our List Of The Best Treadmills for Heavy People

• NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
• Sole F85 Treadmill
• Bowflex Treadmill 22
• Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
• TrueForm Runner Treadmill
• NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
• Sole F80 Treadmill
• InMovement UnSit Treadmill
• Matrix TF50 Treadmill

NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill

One of the best changes NordicTrack made to their Commercial series treadmills was increasing the weight capacity. The 2450 sports a 400-lb weight capacity, and it feels like it. I have been waiting for this change for a while because it didn’t seem right that such a prestigious brand would only meet the 300-lb industry standard. Thankfully, the wait is over.

After reviewing so many treadmills, I’ve definitely developed a feel for when a treadmill is truly sturdy. And let me tell you, there is a drastic difference between the previous edition of the 2450 and the newest model. The running deck feels more solid when I’m training and when I fold the treadmill up. However, it retains the cushioning I loved so much in the previous model.

If you are concerned about the impact of walking and running, the 2450’s soft shocks will give you some peace of mind. I spend a lot of time running on the road, and the 2450 provides a much-needed break. It’s one of the best-cushioned treadmills in its category.

Beyond the 2450’s weight capacity and cushioning, it still has much to offer. iFIT is the integrated fitness service on the 24” touchscreen display. The features are super limited on the 2450 without an active iFIT membership. Yet, when you subscribe, you get some of the top performance and entertainment options available.

iFIT’s treadmill classes follow an instructor as they conquer trails in locations all over the world. The treadmill automatically adjusts its incline and speed along with the class. iFIT even tailors the difficulty of classes as it learns your training ability. Alternatively, you can train while streaming content from the built-in Netflix and Prime Video apps.

I recommend the NordicTrack 2450 for heavier users who want excellent cushioning and premium training content.

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Here

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Sole F85 Treadmill

The Sole F85 Treadmill has a 375-lb weight capacity. Though it’s not quite to the 400-lb mark that we like to see, the Sole F85 is reasonably priced for its performance specs and features. It also has some of the best content options without requiring a monthly subscription. The Sole F85 Treadmill is a great home treadmill for walkers and runners alike.

The Sole F85 Treadmill is a folding treadmill with enough power to support daily walks or runs. The motor is a 4.0 horsepower DC motor. The frame is very sturdy. Fortunately, the frame and motor are covered by lifetime warranties so that you can be sure of this treadmill’s longevity.

The weight capacity is a decent 375 lbs. It’s above the industry standard but not quite the 400 lbs some users might need. Yet, I am impressed with this treadmill’s warranty and stability. The Sole F85 doesn’t just promise to hold up to intense use, it performs well under it.

The Sole F85 has 6 levels of decline and 15 levels of incline. Add this incline variation to a maximum speed of 12 mph, and you have a lot of training potential. The running deck is 22” by 60”, so you have a little more room to exercise than what you will find on most home treadmills (20” x 60”).

The running deck is firm, but I prefer this for a durable treadmill. It creates a more stable feel. It has a lower step-up height. The F85 has a deck height of 8 inches, which should be friendly to users with restrictions on their ankle, knee, or hip mobility.

If you have difficulty committing to just one training or entertainment platform, the Sole F85 has plenty of options to keep your training varied. With apps from Netflix, ESPN, Audible, and Spotify, the Sole F85 helps you exercise while consuming your favorite entertainment. While using the built-in apps, you can even choose one of the F85’s workout programs or create your own while you are streaming.

One of my new favorite things to do on the F85 is to use the screen mirroring function (for Apple and Android devices) to cast my Kindle app and read my current ebook on the 15.6-inch touchscreen display. The Sole F85 has tons of features, and I guarantee there’s something included on this treadmill for everyone to enjoy.

Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F85 Treadmill Here

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Bowflex Treadmill 22

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a great alternative to the Sole F85 because it has a lot of the same features but also offers premium training content. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 also has a higher weight capacity at 400 lbs. JRNY specializes in smart training content tailored to your fitness level. The Treadmill 22 has a burly build and great performance specs that will appeal to all.

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a giant treadmill, but it’s a great option if you have the space for it. It has a 400-lb weight limit. The unique triangulated design reinforces the uprights. It creates an stable console. While other treadmill brands have gone the modern and minimalist route, Bowflex created a futuristic, maximalist treadmill with the Treadmill 22.

A 22” x 60” running deck makes running on the Bowflex Treadmill 22 easy. Whether the extra width feels more comfortable or you tend to drift from side to side while training like I do, the Treadmill 22 feels roomy and supportive. The deck is firm but more shock-absorbing than running on the pavement. It is also great for preparing your body for outdoor activities.

The Treadmill 22’s performance specs are very impressive because this treadmill has the best incline range for a folding treadmill. It ranges from -5% to 20%. The deck should be declined completely for compact folding. Because the deck folds nearly vertically, the Treadmill 22’s large footprint is shrunk by about 40%.

JRNY provides all of the onboard training content for the Bowflex Treadmill 22. I cannot stress enough that this treadmill is best for subscribers. You need a Wi-Fi connection and an active subscription to use the Treadmill 22 as intended. JRNY provides a 2-month free trial, so you can become acquainted with the service before committing.

JRNY’s trainer-led classes or personalized scenic runs make indoor training almost as enjoyable as the outdoors. If you want entertainment, the built-in apps allow you to stream your favorite shows and movies from services you likely already subscribe to. The treadmill’s 22” touchscreen is great for viewing and navigating.

The Treadmill 22 has a great balance of entertainment and training content for a walker or runner who would like to subscribe to a premium service.

Read Our Full Review Of The Bowflex Treadmill 22 Here

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Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

The Horizon 7.8 AT is a great running treadmill in general, so it’s no surprise it ended up on this list. It has a 375-lb weight capacity with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. It’s also one of the more affordable options on this list for its weight capacity. The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill is a great choice for running, whether you plan to do high-intensity intervals or long runs.

Horizon is a brand you don’t want to overlook because it offers quality products while keeping prices reasonable. The Horizon 7.8 AT is the top treadmill from this brand and provides a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. It’s a heavy and sturdy cardio machine, but it folds compactly to save you some space when you are not working out.

The Horizon 7.8 AT is a great running treadmill for many reasons. I like that it’s a one-stop shop for all of your runs: intervals, tempo running, easy runs, and long runs. It has a 4.0 HP motor. The 22-inch by 60-inch running deck is very roomy and has a moderate step-up height of 8.75 inches.

The Horizon 7.8 AT has a moderately cushioned deck with 3-zone cushioning. The deck is more softly cushioned towards the front and firmer in the back for a stable push-off zone. It’s a subtle but effective design.

The Horizon 7.8 AT uses QuickDial controls that allow users to quickly scroll from one incline and speed setting to another. The QuickDial controls allow walkers and runners to easily keep up with third-party training content like Peloton and iFIT. There is an interval button under each QuickDial which allows users to customize an interval with whatever speed and incline setting they prefer. The 7.8 AT’s transitions are very fast and smooth, so you can always stay on track with your workouts.

The Horizon 7.8 AT has an old-school construction with large uprights, plenty of storage, and a big console. I like this construction because it prioritizes durability over a sleek, modern look.
Horizon does not make any content, so no subscription is required, but you can use some of the built-in features to support training alongside third-party content on a smart device.

The Horizon 7.8 AT is for runners (and walkers) who want the freedom to train in a variety of ways and who want to save some money while doing so.

Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill Here

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TrueForm Runner Treadmill

The TrueForm Runner Manual Treadmill has a very unique approach to its weight capacity. Instead of listing one weight capacity, it provides two. One is for walking, and one is for running at full speed. From a physics standpoint, more treadmills should be able to provide this information, so I’m happy to see that TrueForm does.

How can a treadmill have two weight capacities? As a biomechanist, I love this question and the fact that TrueForm provides this information. The typical walker applies far less force on a treadmill than a runner. For instance, a walker might generate a little over 100% of their body weight worth of force, while a runner could generate 300% of their body weight worth of force.

So, if you are walking, the treadmill can handle 700 lbs, but as the downward force increases when you start running, the treadmill can only support a user weighing a maximum of 450 lbs. It’s cool, sciencey, and more inclusive!

The TrueForm Runner provides a challenging workout that is harder than running on a manual treadmill or running outdoors. You might have to run shorter distances than usual when you first start out. I also recommend humbling yourself on how fast you think you should be.

The TrueForm Runner’s curved slat belt is not as steep as other manual treadmills, so bringing the belt up to speed and maintaining that speed can be hard. However, with some practice, you will become an expert, now exercising at a higher intensity than you might have on a motorized treadmill.

This manual treadmill is for users who love customization. The belt comes in a variety of surfaces: tread, track, turf, or a unique barefoot surface. You can customize the frame to just about any color and outfit it with decals. TrueForm provides manual treadmill options we didn’t know we wanted or needed until they started offering them. So you can train in style!

Read Our Full Review Of The TrueForm Runner Treadmill Here

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NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack has improved upon its weight capacity. The NordicTrack Commercial Series treadmills now have a weight capacity of 400 lbs. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a great option for smart performance features and great cushioning. It’s one of our favorite NordicTrack treadmills, and it currently tops our Best Treadmill list, so it’s a good one to consider.

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a go-to treadmill for new runners or runners who are exhausted from hard training. This treadmill’s soft cushioning is a lot more inviting than the hard asphalt and concrete you’ll encounter outside. The shock absorption makes racking up those miles or recovering from injury much easier.

The running deck is 20 inches by 60 inches, which should accommodate most users. It now has a 400-lb weight capacity, which is a great improvement from its previous 300-lb rating. The NordicTrack 1750 has a 3.5 HP motor, and it’s made with runners in mind. It has a -3% to 12% incline range and a 0 to 12 mile per hour speed range.

iFIT provides the onscreen training content for the 1750 and automatically adjusts your speed and incline settings. If you need to override the settings, the onscreen buttons let you locate the desired level. iFIT is a digital fitness platform that requires a monthly subscription. The 1750 is best for walkers or runners who plan to use the subscription training program.

The 1750 wouldn’t be complete without smart training features. The 16” tilt and pivot touchscreen allows you to train on or off the treadmill. If you want to create a well-rounded workout routine, try one of the strength classes after your daily walk or run. Set up a station next to your treadmill, adjust the screen to the right position, and you are set!

The treadmill also has heart rate training, which activates when you pair a heart rate monitor via Bluetooth to the 1750. The speed will automatically change to keep you in the right training zone. Other noteworthy features include Bluetooth audio, speakers, and an auto-adjust fan.

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Here

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Sole F80 Treadmill

The Sole F80 Treadmill folds compactly and is a decently portable treadmill across a short distance. The Sole F80 is also the more affordable alternative to the Sole F85. It’s a powerful treadmill with many of the same features we loved so much on the F85.

One thing Sole does that I wish more treadmill brands did is offer four transport wheels so the treadmill can be pushed rather than tilted and rolled. The Sole F80 is easier to wheel in and out of a corner or smaller space when not in use.

The only caveat to its folding ability is the heavy deck. Lifting the deck requires being able to lift at least 50 lbs. The deck lowers softly when unfolded, so you don’t have to worry about that portion of the folding mechanism. On the bright side, the heavy deck is an indication of how sturdy this machine is.

I like the stability of the F80 despite its modern z-shaped frame. A lifetime warranty covers the frame and motor. The F80’s running deck is 22” x 60”. The deck is firm, so it is better for users preparing for outdoor activities than walkers or runners who want to maximize shock absorption.

It’s a great treadmill for a single user running a lot of mileage or two users sharing a treadmill for less intense activity. The Sole F80 supports most walking and running activities. I don’t mind going for a short brisk walk or sticking around for a long run to prepare for marathon racing. The only type of activity the Sole F80 isn’t the best at is interval training because of the slow speed and incline adjustments.

Additionally, I recommend using Sole’s program customization options to improve your speed and incline transitions. This treadmill has a lot of training and entertainment freedom thanks to built-in apps like Netflix, Kinomap, Audible, YouTube, and more. You can even screen mirror your phone to the 10-inch display to view an unlimited range of content.

The F80 is for walkers or runners who like to vary their routines.

Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F80 Treadmill Here

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InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill

The InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill may be a deviation from the other treadmills on this list, but it’s important. With a 400-lb weight capacity and a unique design, the InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill is perfect for a heavier user who wants to accumulate a lot of steps during their work day.

For much of this list, I have concentrated on fitness treadmills. If that’s not quite your style or you are short on time, the InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill might be your solution. It’s good for low-impact exercise for anyone short on time or trying to combat the dangers of sitting. The InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill is the perfect addition to your standing desk.

It has a 30” x 40” walking surface. It takes up the full width beneath your desk, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally stepping off the side. It should also be comfortable for users with wide step widths. The treadmill’s maximum speed is 2 miles per hour, so you don’t have to fear stepping off the back of the treadmill or running out of room.

The InMovement UnSit Treadmill’s 400-lb weight capacity is much better than the lightweight, portable walking pads you might encounter when searching for an under-desk treadmill. The unit has a lifetime warranty on the frame. The deck can even handle setting a chair on top of it, so you don’t have to move this heavy treadmill when you need a break from walking.

The InMovement UnSit has a 2.75 HP motor designed to support all-day use. It is also very quiet and can be controlled by a small dial console for your desk. These features make it less intrusive into your workspace. The step-up height is only 5 inches, so most users should be able to navigate the deck easily.

InMovement has designed a unique and effective under-desk treadmill that supports users trying to combat the detriments of sitting.

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Matrix TF50 Treadmill

The Matrix TF50 is a premium treadmill with a wide range of content options. Its price may not be budget-friendly, but when you read what it has to offer, you’ll understand why. The Matrix TF50 is very similar to Matrix’s T50 treadmill, but the TF50 folds, which is why we chose it. This folding design will likely be more convenient for home use. Matrix is more well-known for its commercial treadmill products, so you can expect quality from the TF50.

The Matrix TF50 is a high-end treadmill, but it’s an easy choice for the best treadmill with content. Matrix has third-party apps like Netflix, Spotify, Kindle, and more. The TF50 also supports the iFIT training platform, so you can enjoy trainer-led content from one of the top fitness platforms available.

Because we chose this treadmill option for the best content, I am specifically referring to the XUR, XIR, and XER console models available for the Matrix TF50. These are touchscreen models, while the XR model is only an LCD screen without the same content options.

The Matrix TF50 is a folding treadmill with a deck that folds nearly vertically. It’s an impressive design that we love. The deck is 20” x 60” and can support a user weight of 400 lbs. The step-up height is only 7”, which should be easier on users with hip, knee, or ankle mobility restrictions.

The treadmill frame, motor, and cushioning are all covered by a lifetime warranty. The motor is 3.25 continuous horsepower, which is underpowered for what we expect from a treadmill at this price point. Still, it should support the daily training of one user quite well. The speed and incline improve upon the industry standards with a range of 0 to 12.5 mph and 0 to 15%, respectively.

The TF50 has water bottle pockets and a device rack for storage. The treadmill is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled to support its smart features. If you do not have a heart rate monitor, the pulse grips allow you to check in while training.

The Matrix TF50 is a great high-end treadmill option that offers a wide range of content options.

Read Our Full Review Of The Matrix TF50 Treadmill Here

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Factors to Consider When Finding a Treadmill with a High Weight Capacity

Weight Capacity

The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill’s deck feels heavy and reinforced to support its higher weight capacity.

I think it goes almost without saying that evaluating the user weight capacity is the right place to start when deciding on the right treadmill for you with a high weight capacity. Brands will tell you that if you are at or under the maximum, the treadmill will work for you.

The most common treadmill weight limit we see is 300 lbs, but this list has compiled many of the treadmills that exceed this industry standard. For motorized treadmills, it is less common to see a treadmill weight capacity above 400 lbs, so we have made it easier to find them with this list.

Treadmill Construction

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 has one of the most solid frames we’ve seen on a residential treadmill.

Treadmill construction gives a good indication of the durability and stability of a treadmill. I prefer treadmills with steel frames. Avoid narrow uprights that may create an unstable console. If you are uncertain whether a treadmill’s construction is good or not, check the warranty. A longer warranty is a good sign but also read the warranty’s fine print to see if it covers wear and tear.

Storage and Portability

The Sole F85 folds compactly. Heavier users don’t have to settle for bulky machines.

Treadmills with high weight capacities tend to be larger and heavier machines. If you need to move your treadmill around often, consider your options. The Sole F85 and F80 have high-weight capacities and four transport wheels. These treadmills are good options for users who need a durable treadmill but also the ability to wheel it short distances.

Keep in mind that the treadmill decks are a bit heavier to lift back into their folded position due to their reinforced steel frames.

Motor

A 4.0 HP motor, like that on the 7.8 AT, is a great feature for heavier runners who want powerful treadmills.

Powerful motors and higher weight capacities tend to go hand in hand. It’s not only the frame and construction of the treadmill that determine the weight capacity, but the motor plays a part, too.

When you walk or run, the impact of your foot on the belt decelerates or slows the belt. The motor must overcome the force of your impact to move the belt under you. A heavier user typically means a higher force on the running belt. Thus, looking for a motor with a high horsepower rating is important.

We recommend a 3-horsepower motor for running, but heavier users who plan to train regularly should consider something even more powerful. Fortunately, many treadmills with high-weight capacities have great motors.

How We Test Treadmills

Our treadmill review process involves actually walking and running on the treadmills we review. We are always excited to get a new treadmill and put it to work. Like you, we are walkers and runners who want a high-quality workout. We try all of the training content a treadmill has. We pair apps, headphones, watches, and more.

Our team of reviewers scrutinizes each treadmill’s build, takes measurements, and analyzes performance. Here at Treadmill Reviews, we are serious about treadmills and improving your shopping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What treadmill can hold 400 pounds?

Of the treadmills we have listed here, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 and 1750, the Bowflex Treadmill 22, TrueForm Runner, InMovement UnSit, and Matrix TF50 can support at least 400 lbs. We hope more manufacturers will improve their treadmills’ weight capacities to join this list in the future.

What is the best treadmill for a 300-lb person?

Most residential treadmills can support a weight of 300 lbs. However, it may be advisable to choose a treadmill with a higher weight capacity if you are close to the 300-lb mark. In that case, we have chosen the NordicTrack 2450 as our best overall treadmill with a high weight capacity. The Sole F80 is a more affordable alternative with a slightly lower weight capacity.

Can I use a treadmill if I’m over the weight capacity?

I do not advise using a treadmill if you are over the weight capacity. I wish that all treadmills were more inclusive of all body sizes, but it is a safety risk that cannot be overlooked.

If you do not have access to a treadmill with a higher weight capacity, consider alternatives like walking outdoors, finding an indoor walking track, or creating a walking route in your home. These alternatives may be subpar for many exercisers, but it is important to put your safety first.

Alternatively, consider other types of cardio exercise such as rowing. Rowers like the Concept2 RowERG, Aviron Strong, and Ergatta Rower have 500-lb weight capacities and provide full-body workouts.

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