Last Update: August 9, 2024
Most home treadmills max out at a 300-lb user weight capacity. If this weight limit doesn’t meet your standards or doesn’t promise enough durability, check out this list of the best treadmills for heavy people. I have compiled the best treadmills that exceed the industry standard. These treadmills are durable and high-powered so you can achieve your goals without worrying about the integrity of your machine.
I am happy to highlight these brands that are making exercise more inclusive to walkers and runners of varying sizes. These machines have many more features that will appeal to you beyond a good weight capacity. In fact, many of these treadmills are personal favorites of mine. A durable design can still create a treadmill with fun training and entertainment content and impressive performance features.
Here’s Our List Of The Best Treadmills for Heavy People
- Best Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F85 Treadmill
- Best Treadmill with 400-lb Weight Capacity: Bowflex Treadmill 22
- Best Running Treadmill for Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
- Best Luxury Treadmill for Heavy People: Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill
- Best Manual Treadmill for Heavy People: TrueForm Runner Treadmill
- Best Budget Treadmill for Heavy People: XTERRA TR75 Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F80 Treadmill
- Best Cushioned Treadmill for Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Heavy People: InMovement UnSit Treadmill
- Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Content: Matrix TF50 Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F85 Treadmill
The Sole F85 Treadmill is a no-brainer for our pick for the best treadmill for heavy people. It 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.
Sole F85 Treadmill
The Sole F85 has a 375-lb weight capacity and great features for every walker and runner to enjoy.
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 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 be looking for. Yet, I am really impressed with the warranty and the stability of this treadmill. 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 inches by 60 inches, 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 also allows for a lower step-up height because not as much room is needed for the shocks. 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 a hard time 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.
+ PROS
- The Sole F85 Treadmill has a 375-lb weight capacity.
- The frame and motor are covered by lifetime warranties.
- The F85 has third-party apps from Hulu, CNN, Kinomap, YouTube, and more.
- The deck is 22” x 60”, which is a little wider than you find on most home treadmills now.
- The 15.6-inch touchscreen display supports screen mirroring for Apple and Android devices.
- The Sole F85 has 6 levels of decline and 15 levels of incline.
– CONS
- The running deck is firmer than some walkers and runners may prefer.
- The Sole F85 does not provide built-in trainer-led content.
Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F85 Treadmill Here
Best Treadmill with 400-lb Weight Capacity: 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 maximum user weight capacity at 400 lbs. While it doesn’t have screen mirroring, it does provide JRNY subscribers access to entertainment apps like Netflix and Hulu. 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 walkers and runners of all abilities.
Bowflex Treadmill 22
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 has a 400-lb user weight capacity and subscription features from JRNY that will appeal to many walkers and runners.
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a giant treadmill, but if you can find the space for it, it’s a great option. With a 400-lb user weight capacity, it is well above the industry standard. The uprights are reinforced with a unique triangulated design. It creates one of the sturdiest treadmill consoles I have personally tested. While other treadmill brands have gone the modern and minimalist route, Bowflex has created a futuristic and 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 it’s 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 all the way 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 WiFi 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 your indoor training almost as enjoyable as the outdoors. If you want to be entertained, the built-in apps allow you to stream your favorite shows and movies from services you likely already subscribe to. The treadmill’s 22-inch touchscreen display 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.
+ PROS
- The Bowflex Treadmill 22 has a 400-lb maximum user weight capacity.
- The -5% to 20% incline range is the best among folding treadmills.
- JRNY provides all of the built-in training content and gives access to third-party streaming apps.
- The 22-inch touchscreen display is a great size for streaming content.
- The Treadmill 22 folds very compactly for its size.
- The running deck is 22” by 60” which should be comfortable for most users.
– CONS
- The Treadmill 22 requires a subscription to JRNY and a WiFi connection to access all of the onscreen features.
- The Treadmill 22 is a large and heavy treadmill.
Read Our Full Review Of The Bowflex Treadmill 22 Here
Best Running Treadmill for Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.8 AT is our pick for the best running treadmill for heavy people. First of all, it’s a great running treadmill in general, so it’s no surprise it ended up on this list. Secondly, 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 7.8 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill has great features for interval or long-distance training while supporting users up to 375 lbs.
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 offers 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 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.
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. Horizon does not make any content, so no subscription is required to use the 7.8 AT, 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.
+ PROS
- The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill has a 375-lb weight capacity.
- The Horizon frame and motor are covered by lifetime warranties.
- Horizon has the fastest speed and incline transitions.
- The QuickDial controls and interval keys allow users to keep up with third-party training content.
- No subscription is required to use the 7.8 AT.
- The 4.0 HP motor supports daily walks or runs.
– CONS
- The Horizon’s lack of smart features (like a touchscreen) may not appeal to every user.
- The Horizon 7.8 AT’s dated design may not appeal to users looking for high-tech treadmills.
Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill Here
Best Luxury Treadmill for Heavy People: Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill
The Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill may be the opposite of affordable, but for walkers and runners for whom money is no object, it’s a phenomenal option. The Freemotion t22.9’s maximum user weight capacity is 400 lbs. It’s a luxury treadmill with the build and features to match. Freemotion is well-known for its commercial products, so if you have fallen in love with the t22.9 in your local gym, you will be pleased to know you can bring the experience home!
Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill
The Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill is a luxury treadmill with a 400-lb weight capacity and premium features to match its steep price.
You shouldn’t have to pay a premium for a treadmill that’s inclusive, and you don’t. But, the Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX treadmill has some amazing high-end features to appeal to users who want and can afford the luxury experience. The Freemotion t22.9 has the softest cushioning I have tried. If you are looking for a treadmill that maximizes shock absorption and makes running feel easier than ever before, the t22.9 does the job exceptionally well. The 21.5” x 60” running deck is also springy, which is great for increasing your daily mileage.
The Freemotion t22.9 has a lot to offer. My personal favorites include a 5.0 CHP AC motor, a free version of iFIT, and a 15% incline. The powerful motor is perfect for walkers or runners logging many miles every day and sharing the treadmill among a household of users. Because of its commercial-like build, the t22.9 holds up under intense daily use. The free version of iFIT provides instructor-led training included in the price of the treadmill. You can optionally upgrade to the paid version of iFIT if you want more personalized features. While the Freemotion t22.9 does not decline, the 15% incline range is higher than the industry standard and is further intensified by a maximum speed of 15 mph. Most users won’t need settings so challenging!
iFIT provides virtual training content from over a hundred different coaches. The free version of iFIT provides treadmill training content but a paid subscription allows you to train with many other types of cardio equipment as well as strength and yoga classes. The Freemotion t22.9 has automatic incline and speed adjustments. Its 22-inch touchscreen display beautifully displays iFIT’s content from all over the world. Even cooler, the terrain shown onscreen will dictate what incline the treadmill is set to. For instance, if the trail winds uphill, the t22.9 is going to incline to match that grade as closely as possible. It’s a cool and immersive experience.
Freemotion has a couple of other treadmill options for heavy walkers and runners that are worth mentioning. Again, these are high-end treadmills, but for a user looking for top-of-the-line performance, these are great options. The Freemotion t8.9b Treadmill is a slightly more affordable alternative to the t22.9. The Freemotion i10.b Incline Trainer is one of the only incline trainers available with a 400-lb weight capacity. It has an incline of -3% to 30%, making it a decent alternative to the NordicTrack X22i and X32i (300-lb weight capacities).
+ PROS
- The Freemotion t22.9 has one of the softest running decks.
- The t22.9 has a 400-lb weight capacity.
- The speed tops out at 15 mph while the incline reaches 15%.
- The Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX treadmill comes with a free version of iFIT.
- The 22-inch display is high-definition and perfect for viewing iFIT content.
- The 5.0 CHP AC motor can support a high volume of training from one user or multiple users.
– CONS
- There are no speakers, but the treadmill does have Bluetooth audio.
- The Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill is a very expensive treadmill, but it may be worth it for some users.
Read Our Full Review Of The Freemotion t22.9 REFLEX Treadmill Here
Best Manual Treadmill for Heavy People: TrueForm Runner Treadmill
The TrueForm Runner Manual Treadmill has a very unique approach to its weight capacity. Instead of listing one user weight capacity, it provides two. One is for walking, and one is for running at full speed. Thus, the TrueForm Runner is our pick for the best manual treadmill because it has the highest weight capacity and is even more inclusive for athletes who may not be ready to run quite yet. From a physics standpoint, more treadmills should be able to provide this information, so I’m happy to see that TrueForm does.
TrueForm Runner Treadmill
The TrueForm Runner Treadmill has a 450-lb running weight capacity and a 700-lb walking weight capacity.
How can a treadmill have two weight capacities you might ask? Well, as a biomechanist I absolutely love this question and that TrueForm provides this information. The typical walker applies far less force down 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 is a great manual treadmill. It 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 it can be hard to bring the belt up to speed and maintain that speed. However, with a little bit of practice, you will become an expert who’s exercising at a higher intensity than you might on a motorized treadmill.
This manual treadmill is the one for users who love customization. The belt comes in a variety of surfaces: tread, track, turf, or a unique barefoot surface. The frame can also be customized to just about any color you want and outfitted with decals. TrueForm provides manual treadmill options we didn’t know we wanted or needed until they started offering them. So not only can you train effectively, but you can train in style!
+ PROS
- The TrueForm Runner has a walking weight capacity of 700 lbs and a running weight capacity of 450 lbs.
- The TrueForm Runner has a gently curved slat belt.
- The TrueForm Runner provides intense exercise that surpasses the difficulty of running outdoors or on a motorized treadmill.
- The TrueForm Runner comes in a variety of belt surfaces.
- The TrueForm Runner can be customized in color and with decals.
– CONS
- The TrueForm Runner is an expensive treadmill, but it is very high quality.
- The TrueForm Runner takes more time to get used to than other manual treadmills.
Read Our Full Review Of The TrueForm Runner Treadmill Here
Best Budget Treadmill for Heavy People: XTERRA TR75 Treadmill
The XTERRA TR75 is a folding treadmill. It is priced below $1500. XTERRA also frequently runs additional sales to make their treadmills even more affordable. The TR75 has a 350-lb weight capacity. I also like XTERRA for its warranty length, compact design, and lack of subscription service.
XTERRA TR75 Treadmill
The XTERRA TR75 Treadmill has a 350-lb weight capacity and is priced under $1500. It does not require a subscription and has a lifetime warranty on its frame and motor.
Treadmills with high weight capacities often have premium builds that are much more expensive. Fortunately, there are options for budget shoppers. The XTERRA TR75’s 350-lb weight capacity is very nice for its price. I was skeptical of XTERRA’s build quality for such an affordable brand, but I have been really impressed with them so far. The TR75 has a steel frame that is covered by a lifetime warranty. A lifetime warranty also covers the 3.25 horsepower motor.
The XTERRA TR75 Treadmill has a 20” x 60” running surface. This is on par with most residential home treadmills. It has a deck step-up height of 7.75 inches. The running surface uses the XTRASoft Deck Cushioning. In my experience, XTERRA treadmills tend to be on the moderate to firm range of treadmill cushioning.
The TR75 does not have a built-in touchscreen or premium training content. You don’t need a subscription to use it. There are 18 preset training programs for the XTERRA TR75. There are also 2 custom programs and 4 heart rate programs. Of course, you can always train manually, too. If these free content options weren’t enough, there’s also the free XTERRA+ app that you can download. You just have to input your treadmill’s model number for free access. I really like these training options.
+ PROS
- The XTERRA TR75 has a 325-lb weight capacity.
- It is very affordable for its construction and performance features.
- A lifetime warranty covers the frame and motor.
- There are built-in programs, and you can use the free XTERRA+ app.
- The running surface is 20” x 60” which is the standard for home treadmills.
- The deck step-up height is only 7.75 inches.
– CONS
- The XTERRA TR75 is a more affordable treadmill and may not be as durable as more expensive models.
- The XTERRA TR75 may lack the smart features some shoppers are looking for.
Best Folding Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F80 Treadmill
The Sole F80 Treadmill is our pick for the best folding treadmill for heavy people. The Sole F80 folds compactly and is a decently portable treadmill across a short distance. The Sole F80 is also the more affordable alternative to our best treadmill, the Sole F85. It’s a powerful treadmill with many of the same features we loved so much on the F85.
Sole F80 Treadmill
The Sole F80 folds compactly and has four transport wheels for relocation. It also has great training and entertainment features for users up to 350 lbs.
One thing Sole does that I wish more treadmill brands did is offer four transport wheels, so the treadmill can be pushed around rather than tilted and rolled. The Sole F80 is a great folding treadmill for wheeling in and out of a corner or smaller space when not in use. The only caveat to its folding ability is the heavy deck. I can lift the deck back into place on my own, but users with strength restrictions may need assistance. 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.
Speaking of sturdiness, the F80’s frame is covered by a lifetime warranty. The 3.5 HP motor is also covered by a lifetime warranty, so you have a really solid build with the F80. It’s a great treadmill for a single user doing a lot of mileage or two users sharing a treadmill for less intense/infrequent activity. I like the stability of the F80 despite its modern z-shaped frame. The F80’s running deck is 22 inches by 60 inches, so you get a little bit more width than found on many other home treadmills. The deck is firm, so it is better for users preparing for outdoor activities rather than walkers or runners who want to maximize shock absorption.
The Sole F80 is a treadmill that can support 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. The speed and incline adjustments are rather slow, so you may have to account for the lag in your training plan. 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 (a virtual training app), Audible, YouTube, and more. You can even screen mirror your Android or Apple 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.
+ PROS
- The Sole F80 has assisted unfolding and four transport wheels for easy storage.
- The Sole F80’s maximum user weight capacity is 350 lbs.
- The motor and frame are covered by lifetime warranties.
- The 10-inch touchscreen display provides training and entertainment content through onboard and third-party content.
- You can screen mirror from Apple or Android phones.
- The 3.5 HP motor and 22” by 60” running deck support running comfortably.
– CONS
- The deck is heavy, so it may be a little hard for some users to lift into place.
- The running deck is firmer than some users may prefer.
Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F80 Treadmill Here
Best Cushioned Treadmill for Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial 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.
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 1750 is softly cushioned and a bit bouncy to take some of the difficulty out of running.
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 can automatically adjust the speed and incline settings for you. If you do need to override the settings, there are OneTouch buttons along each side of the screen that conveniently let you locate the level desired. iFIT is a digital fitness platform that requires a monthly subscription after your first thirty days free. The 1750 is best for walkers or runners who plan to make use of the subscription training program.
The 1750 wouldn’t be complete without smart training features. The 14-inch tilt and pivot touchscreen display allows you to engage with training content 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.
+ PROS
- The 1750’s running deck is soft and bouncy.
- The 3.5 HP motor supports walking or running.
- The weight capacity is 400 lbs.
- iFIT provides trainer-led, personalized training content.
- The 14-inch touchscreen display tilts and pivots for viewing on and off the treadmill.
- The 1750 has smart features like Bluetooth audio and heart rate monitor compatibility.
– CONS
- The NordicTrack 1750 requires a subscription to the iFIT platform to make use of the onscreen training features.
- Note: We aren’t sure what changes or tests have been done to update the 1750 from a 300-lb weight capacity to a 400-lb weight capacity.
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Here
Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Heavy People: 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 an important one. 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. It’s great low-impact exercise for the exerciser short on time or trying to combat the dangers of sitting for too long. The InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill is the perfect addition to your standing desk.
InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill
The InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill has a 400-lb weight capacity and a 30-inch wide walking surface.
For much of this list, I have concentrated on moderate to high-intensity exercise. If that’s not quite your style or you are short on time, the InMovement UnSit Under Desk Treadmill might be the solution for you. It has a 30-inch by 40-inch walking surface, which is much different from the other treadmills on this list. It is designed to take 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. This treadmill is not a fitness treadmill. It’s for encouraging more physical activity throughout the day.
The InMovement UnSit Treadmill’s 400-lb weight capacity is much better than the lightweight portable under-desk treadmills you might encounter when searching for an under-desk treadmill. The UnSit has a lifetime warranty on the frame, so it’s built to last. The deck can even handle setting a chair on top of it, so you don’t have to move this heavy treadmill out of the way when you need a break from walking.
The InMovement UnSit has a 2.75 HP motor and is designed to support all-day use. It is also very quiet and can be controlled by a small dial console you can set on top of your desk. These features make it less intrusive into your workspace. The step-up height is only 5 inches, so most users should have no trouble navigating the deck. InMovement has designed a unique and effective under-desk treadmill that supports users trying to combat the detriments of sitting.
+ PROS
- The InMovement UnSit has a 400-lb weight capacity.
- The deck is 30 inches by 40 inches for better support while working at a standing desk.
- The frame is covered by a lifetime warranty.
- The 2.75 HP motor can support all-day use.
- The step-up height is only 5 inches.
- The UnSit is very quiet.
– CONS
- The UnSit is not portable, because it weighs 162 lbs.
- The UnSit only supports low-intensity walking.
Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Content: 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.
Matrix TF50 Treadmill
The Matrix TF50 has the best content options for subscribers and unsubscribers alike. It also has a 400-lb weight capacity.
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 inches by 60 inches and can support a user weight of 400 lbs. The step-up height is only 7 inches, 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 TF50’s performance specs are decent. The speed and incline range slightly 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 WiFi and Bluetooth enabled to support its smart features. If you do not have your own 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.
+ PROS
- The Matrix TF50 has third-party apps and iFIT training.
- The weight capacity is 400 lbs.
- A lifetime warranty covers the frame, cushioning, and motor.
- The TF50 has a variety of smart touchscreen console options.
- The deck folds nearly vertically.
- The incline ranges from 0 to 15%.
– CONS
- The TF50 is an expensive treadmill with only a 3.25 HP motor.
- iFIT just feels a bit incomplete without a decline option.
Read Our Full Review Of The Matrix TF50 Treadmill Here
Factors to Consider When Finding a Treadmill with a High Weight Capacity
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
It goes for any treadmill and treadmill user that the 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 fine print of the warranty to see if it covers wear and tear.
Storage and Portability
Treadmills with high weight capacities tend to be larger and heavier machines. If you need to move your treadmill around often, consider what options you have. 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
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 brakes the belt. To keep the treadmill belt moving smoothly, 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, it is important to look for a motor with a high horsepower rating. We typically recommend a 3-horsepower motor for running, but heavier users who plan to train regularly might want to 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 1750, the Bowflex Treadmill 22, Freemotion t22.9, Freemotion t8.9b, Freemotion i10.b, 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. For more options, check out our best treadmill list. 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 Sole F85 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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