Last Update: November 18, 2024
There are two main types of runners when it comes to treadmills: those who train on them often and those who train on them as a last resort. Regardless of which camp you fall into, I’ve compiled a list of the best treadmills for all runners. I was a last-resort treadmill runner for most of my life, but now I am convinced of their utility in training.
In addition to the typical benefits of treadmills, I have started to appreciate the soft treadmill cushioning. I don’t have access to a cross country course or a rubberized track, so a treadmill has been a fantastic replacement for those runs. The pavement is such a hard surface, and trails are so technical that I just need an alternative that is gentler on my body for easy days.
Treadmills are an excellent way to get into running, supplement your outdoor training, or combat other barriers to exercise, like lack of safety and inclement weather. Continue reading to discover the best treadmills for your running needs!
Here’s Our List Of The Best Treadmills For Runners 2024
- NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
- Bowflex Treadmill 22
- NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
- Sole F80 Treadmill
- Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
- AssaultRunner Pro Treadmill
- NordicTrack X22i Incline Treadmill
- Sole F85 Treadmill
- ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
- Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill
Best Treadmills For Running 2024
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 rose to the top of this list for many reasons. As a runner myself, I was most impressed with its suitability for all my runs: long runs, intervals, easy runs, and everything in between. There are so many features to explore on the 2450, but keep in mind that you need an iFIT subscription to access most of them.
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill impresses with a runner-minded training platform, faster max speed, and cushioned running deck.
The NordicTrack 2450 is now the fastest treadmill in the brand’s lineup. Its maximum speed is 14 miles per hour, making it perfect for fast runners who want to train indoors. The incline and speed adjustments are super fast, so it is easy to stay on pace or slow down after a fast interval. The speed and incline controls are onscreen, but I had no problems using them while running.
The 2450 has thousands of workouts led by professional coaches through the iFIT subscription service. These workouts have preset speeds that can adjust to your fitness level. The incline level replicates the real-world grade of the terrain shown on the screen as closely as the treadmill can. iFIT films videos on trails on all seven continents.
I am obsessed with two iFIT features on the 2450. The first is ActivePulse. When the 2450 pairs with a compatible Bluetooth heart rate monitor, you can use this feature to adjust iFIT classes to your heart rate. The speed adjusts primarily, but the incline will adjust slightly if necessary. iFIT classes have preset heart rate zone targets.
The second feature is entertainment. The 2450 has Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify when used with an iFIT membership. You can watch Netflix or Prime while training in an iFIT class, following a custom workout, or using the manual mode option. I also love listening to my go-to running playlists while training with iFIT. With these features, I’m more excited to run on the treadmill!
+ PROS
- 14 mph max speed
- 4.25 CHP motor with fast adjustments
- -3% to 12% incline range
- ActivePulse and SmartAdjust workout personalization
- Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify
- 24” touchscreen display
- Bluetooth heart rate monitor and headphone connectivity
– CONS
- Limited features with an iFIT subscription
- The soft cushioning is great for recovery, but it does not replicate road running as well
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Here
Bowflex Treadmill 22
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 earns our pick as the Best Treadmill for Running Hills because of its generous incline range, versatile training options, and sturdy build. Its massive size ensures minimal console wobbling while running at high speeds. The belt moves smoothly underfoot and is moderately cushioned.
Bowflex Treadmill 22
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a treadmill of hulking proportions ready for your longest and hilliest runs.
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a striking piece cardio machine due to its large size and bold color scheme. It’s almost overengineered with its triangulated uprights and massive size. If you have run on a cheap or walking-specific treadmill and felt like you might break it, the Treadmill 22 is the exact opposite.
This treadmill is great for a variety of activities, but it shines for someone primarily training on the treadmill. If you plan to do the whole gamut of runs–interval workouts, recovery runs, long runs–this treadmill can handle it all, even if your weekly mileage is marathon-training high.
The Treadmill 22 offers subscription content, a textured tablet rack, and an excellent incline range of -5% to 20% for various ways to train. Bowflex doesn’t state the motor’s horsepower, but it performs on par with other 4.0 HP motors, so it should hold up to even the most intense runs.
Through the 22” touchscreen, you can access the JRNY platform. JRNY is free for the first year after your purchase of the Treadmill 22, making it one of the best free trials of any subscription fitness content. The JRNY platform gives you access to tons of studio and outdoor treadmill classes, radio stations, and entertainment apps like Netflix and Hulu. So if you want guided training or a way to make the treadmill more captivating, the Treadmill 22 has it.
+ PROS
- -5% to 20% incline range
- 22” x 60” running deck
- 400-lb weight limit
- JRNY workouts
- Sturdy console with 22” touchscreen
- Entertainment apps
– CONS
- Limited training options without a JRNY subscription
- Though it folds, it is a large and heavy treadmill
Read Our Full Review Of The Bowflex Treadmill 22 Here
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
NordicTrack makes notoriously well-cushioned treadmills, and the Commercial 1750 Treadmill is one of the best. We chose this treadmill as our best runner-up because it makes running as close to effortless as it gets. The cushion of the 1750 makes this treadmill a great recovery tool. It’s also the more affordable alternative to our #1 treadmill, the 2450.
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
Land more softly on the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill, and get lost in one of iFIT’s destination running classes from the comfort of your home.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill is a premium treadmill with all the accouterments for a great run. Whether you are a serious runner or a newbie to the sport, your legs will eventually feel like they need a break, and the 1750’s cushioned deck can help with that. We love it as a recovery run treadmill or a daily-use machine to keep you running farther and longer.
The 1750 has a rotating 16” HD touchscreen for watching iFIT’s subscription platform on and off the treadmill. The all-inclusive fitness library can help you train for your next marathon, build more muscle off the treadmill, and give you ideas for your next destination race. iFIT’s content is filmed worldwide, and one of the 100+ trainers guides you through classes and series.
It’s hard to classify any treadmill as quiet, but the 1750 is close. The incline motor is one of the quietest, requiring you to look down at times to verify that it is, in fact, moving. The speed adjustments are fast. If you prefer a hands-free workout, iFIT can do it by learning your current fitness level and adjusting accordingly.
Running is never effortless, but it gets as close as it can on the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
+ PROS
- Soft cushioning
- SmartAdjust and ActivePulse
- 16” HD touchscreen
- -3% to 15% incline range
- Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify
- 4.25 CHP motor
– CONS
- The treadmill’s smart features are limited without an iFIT subscription
- The console shakes while running at high speeds.
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Here
Sole F80 Treadmill
The Sole F80 takes our prize for Best Treadmill for Road Running. Compared to others in its category, the F80 has a firm deck, which better replicates the experience of running outdoors on the pavement. A firmer surface will help your body prepare for your next road race.
Sole F80 Treadmill
The Sole F80’s 22” x 60” running surface has a firm underfoot feel, giving you the underfoot feel of running outdoors.
Softer cushioning is not always better for you. Runners concerned about transitioning from treadmill running to outdoor running will benefit from choosing a firmer treadmill. I also recommend the F80 for runners who like a high-cushion shoe, like Hokas, so their runs don’t feel too muted and dampened underfoot, which can reduce stability.
The Sole F80 has fantastic features: a wireless charging pad, Bluetooth connectivity, and screen mirroring. A device rack allows you to connect to the premium Sole+ fitness platform, which syncs with your treadmill to record your workout metrics. Sole+ workouts are also available right on the F80 screen.
The F80 has a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. The 3.5 HP motor is ready to go fast, up to 12 mph, or take it slow with up to 15 levels of incline. The F80 is excellent for runners who plan to train indoors for an upcoming outdoor race.
+ PROS
- The firmer deck replicates running on pavement.
- 22” x 60” deck
- 3.5 HP motor
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Wireless charging pad and screen mirroring
- No subscription is required.
- The F80 folds for easier storage.
– CONS
- No decline
- Some runners may prefer a softer running deck
Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F80 Treadmill Here
Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.8 AT earns our pick for Best Treadmill for Interval Running thanks to its QuickDial controls, hasty speed and incline adjustments, and custom interval keys. Whether you want to run a classic track workout, a freeform fartlek, or a favorite studio class, the 7.8 AT can transition you from one speed to the next in record time.
Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.8 AT has been engineered for running intervals, but its 4.0 HP Rapid Sync motor can also handle long steady-state runs.
The 7.8 AT Treadmill has all the fun of a treadmill compatible with subscription content without commitment. The Bluetooth speakers and device rack allow you to stream your favorite fitness platform from your smart device. Multiple training programs are available on the 7.8 AT.
The Horizon 7.8 AT incorporates the Sprint 8 program. This program takes only 20 minutes, three times a week. It intersperses eight 30-second all-out sprint intervals with 90 seconds of active recovery. The sprints are always at your maximum effort, so the workout never gets easer. As you get better and faster, so do the sprint intervals. The QuickDial controls let you scroll through speed and incline decreases quickly to hit the right pace every time.
Nowadays, everything comes with a subscription, and there are so many different ones to choose from. The Horizon 7.8 AT lets you pick your favorite, switch it up, or go without one. The treadmill retains all of its functions regardless, so you aren’t locked into any one type of content. And if you get tired of intervals, take a break, prop your tablet or phone on the device rack, and stream your favorite shows or music through the Bluetooth speakers.
+ PROS
- QuickDial controls
- Responsive 4.0 HP motor
- Third-party app compatible
- Two tablet holders
- Programmable interval keys
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
– CONS
- No decline
- The low-tech console may not have the options all runners are looking for.
Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill Here
AssaultRunner Pro Treadmill
The AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill has no speed limit and is ready to help you find yours. Whether you want to run at a steady pace, incorporate some intervals, or sprint all-out, the AssaultRunner Pro is the best manual treadmill.
AssaultRunner Pro Treadmill
Explore your maximum potential with the AssaultRunner Pro Manual Treadmill’s unlimited potential. Its speed range is your speed range.
The AssaultRunner Pro is going to be your legs’ worst enemy, but maybe also their savior. This treadmill is non-motorized, so you supply the power to turn the belt. If you are looking for a treadmill that can replace going to the high school track, this one is it.
Forget the straightaways because this treadmill is all curves. At times, it feels like I am running uphill on the AssaultRunner Pro. My foot reaches for the top of the curve to speed up the belt, and my calves burn. Yet, suddenly I am hitting paces I never thought possible on a treadmill.
Like any manual treadmill, the AssaultRunner Pro takes some getting used to. Running on a curved deck is a new experience for many runners, so take it easy at first. When you are ready, the AssaultRunner Pro is one of the easiest manual treadmills for sprinting. The one caveat is that it works much better for midfoot/forefoot runners than runners who land on their heels.
If running isn’t your primary sport, this treadmill might be even better for you. Don’t get me wrong, it is great for runners, but if slow and steady isn’t your thing, this treadmill shines during harder efforts and intervals. The AssaultRunner Pro gives you control, so once you are in the groove, you can sprint, stride, or practice your acceleration all you want.
+ PROS
- Unlimited speed
- The steep belt curve makes it easier to accelerate.
- Harder than outdoor or traditional treadmill workouts
- Cushioned running surface
- No electricity is required.
- The belt warranty is for 150,000 miles.
– CONS
- Not ideal for runners training by pace
- Does not fold
NordicTrack X22i Incline Treadmill
While treadmills can’t yet replicate the technical terrain of the trail, the NordicTrack X22i Treadmill brings you the vertical gain of climbing mountains. The 4.0 HP is prepared for the grind of the trail as much as you are.
NordicTrack X22i Incline Treadmill
With an award-winning incline range of -6% to 40%, the X22i puts the mountain in your house.
The NordicTrack X22i Incline Treadmill is the best at inclines. A 40% incline is hard to fathom until you see it. That’s over three times the incline ability of most treadmills. Would it be too cheesy to say that this treadmill can take your treadmill to the next level?
Trail runners care about preserving our precious trails for future generations, but we miss them when they close for weather or animal activity. The 22” screen of the smart HD screen helps you lose yourself on trails you have never even heard of before through iFIT’s worldwide content. Feel the burn in your quads of those distant peaks as the incline replicates the real-world grade.
The X22i is a hefty treadmill, so runners will want a dedicated space in their homes to accommodate the X22i’s size. To take full advantage of the incline, you will also need to ensure adequate ceiling height for this machine. I recommend 9-foot ceilings for most users. Assembly may also be difficult, so consider NordicTrack’s in-home delivery and set-up.
+ PROS
- -6% to 40% incline range
- 22” HD touchscreen
- 22” x 60” belt
- 4.0 CHP motor
- Trainer-led classes and entertainment apps with iFIT
- Bluetooth connectivity for headphones and heart rate monitoring
– CONS
- The X22i requires a lot of space
- Limited features without an iFIT membership
Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack X22i Incline Treadmill Here
Sole F85 Treadmill
Athletes come in all shapes and sizes and deserve equipment that accommodates them. The Sole F85 wins our award for Best Treadmill for Larger Runners. Its weight capacity of 375 lbs is much higher than the industry standard of 300 lbs for motorized treadmills.
Sole F85 Treadmill
The Sole F85 has a large belt (22” x 60”) and a high weight capacity (375 lbs) to be a more inclusive running treadmill.
Sole makes robust and sturdy equipment. A lifetime motor and frame warranty indicates their durability, and running on one confirms it. The deck is firmer than other options, so it always feels sturdy underfoot. A weight capacity of 375 lbs is well above the standard 300 lbs. The motor power also matches its other durable features with a horsepower rating of 4.0.
The 15.6” touchscreen provides a clear picture for easy viewing. The speakers are Bluetooth compatible, so you can stream content or listen to music through them. Bluetooth integration allows you to pair with SOLE+ apps for more training features. The tablet rack is positioned at the top of the treadmill to improve visibility for taller users.
The F85 comes with a host of other specs and features to round out your training. It has six decline levels and fifteen incline levels (measured as -5% and 13%). The speed range is a standard 0 to 12 mph.
Our favorite features include a wireless charging pad, heart rate monitoring, and screen mirroring from your smart device. You can also train with the onboard trainer-led workouts from Sole+. The F85 is a durable treadmill for a large range of runners to enjoy.
+ PROS
- 375 lbs weight capacity
- 22” x 60” deck
- 6 decline levels and 15 incline levels
- 4.0 HP motor
- Lifetime motor and frame warranty
- 15.6” touchscreen
– CONS
- Firm cushioning might not suit all runners
- Weak fan
Read Our Full Review Of The Sole F85 Treadmill Here
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
The Carbon TLX is an affordable treadmill. It has the minimum motor strength we like to see on a running treadmill. If you need a treadmill you can turn to on a rainy day, the TLX could be the one for you. I don’t recommend it for runners logging 10+ miles daily–you might want something a little more powerful–but it is quite nice for low to moderate mileage.
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
The ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill is an affordable running treadmill that pairs with iFIT on your phone or tablet.
With a 3-horsepower motor and a 20-inch by 60-inch running deck, the ProForm Carbon TLX is ready to run. I like it for runners logging about an hour of training daily or less. It’s great for walking and running.
The speed range is 0 to 12 mph. The incline range is 0 to 12%, so there is no decline, but it is still a good range for its price. The running deck is firm compared to ProForm Pro series treadmills. It’s more cushioned than running on the road but not soft and bouncy.
The Carbon TLX does not have a touchscreen. Instead, it has a 7-inch digital display. You can see your metrics but not training content. If you want more training options, pair the treadmill with iFIT. The TLX has a tablet rack to make viewing the classes super easy. You don’t get all of the iFIT features, but the treadmill will automatically incline and adjust in speed with the classes.
This folding treadmill deck has hydraulics to softly lower when released from the folded position. The Carbon TLX can support a maximum user weight of 300 lbs. The warranty is a little shorter than ProForm’s other machines. It has the standard 10-year warranty on the frame and 1 year for labor, but the parts are warranted for only 1 year instead of 2.
Overall, I like the construction of the ProForm Carbon TLX. It is very nice for the price.
+ PROS
- Budget-friendly
- iFIT trainer-led classes
- Speakers, a device rack, and a fan
- 3 HP motor
- Sturdy console and frame
– CONS
- The speakers are not Bluetooth.
- The TLX is not the quietest treadmill.
Read Our Full Review Of The ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill Here
Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill
The Wahoo KICKR RUN is probably the coolest running treadmill I’ve heard of in a long time. However, it is still untested and unproven compared to the other models on this list. It ranks at the bottom of this best page due to its high price and lack of track record, but we have high hopes for it. The KICKR RUN has everything a dedicated runner needs and more.
Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill
The Wahoo KICKR RUN rivals manual treadmills with its speed changes based on runner positioning. It’s the innovation we’ve needed.
The most exciting Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill feature is the RunFree mode. I’ve never felt comfortable running sprints or strides on a treadmill because I’m scared of not adjusting the speed fast enough. The Wahoo KICKR RUN creates the most outdoor-like run any motorized treadmill has yet achieved by allowing you to control the speed naturally.
This feature uses a sensor to measure your positioning and accelerate the treadmill as needed. That means you can access the entire speed range from 0 to 15 miles per hour in seconds. Running fast intervals has never been easier.
You can also connect to apps for automatic speed and incline control or use the intuitive paddles. These paddles adjust the speed by how much you move them. A light push changes your speed slightly, while a full push makes a greater jump.
The Wahoo KICKR RUN does not require a subscription service, and the display is super simple. Despite its premium cost, you’ll need a tablet, phone, or computer to view all of the awesome running metrics it collects. It has plenty of storage, including a giant shelf and tablet rack, to make accessing these stats easier. The KICKR RUN will support Zwift and other apps.
Currently, the Wahoo KICKR RUN is only rated to support 250 lbs, but there is hope that this rating will increase. I hope it will reach the industry standard of at least 300 lbs.
+ PROS
- Optical sensor for user-controlled speed adjustments
- 0 to 15 mph
- Advanced running metrics
- -3% to 15% incline and tilts up to 1% laterally
- Third-party app connectivity
- Intuitive speed and incline paddles
- Spacious storage options
– CONS
- Expensive
- 250-lb weight capacity
Read Our Full Review Of The Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill Here
Factors To Consider When Finding The Best Treadmill For Running
What are the speed and incline capabilities?
Before you buy a new treadmill, consider what speeds you will be training at. Most treadmills have a range of 0 to 12 mph. For reference, 12 mph is a 5-minute mile. That’s pretty fast for most people, but it might not be sprinting for everyone. Manual treadmills have unlimited speed capabilities, which makes them appealing for sprint training.
If you are training for a trail race or big hike, consider a treadmill with an incline beyond the standard 12% grade. A decline option is becoming more common in treadmills. If the routes you typically run are downhill, they could contribute to any soreness you feel after running. The only way to combat this is to get better and more experienced at running downhill.
How do you want to train?
Smart treadmills are almost running coaches as well as cardio equipment. Platforms like Peloton, iFIT, JRNY, and Studio are very engaging and motivating. Their classes can help you push your training to the next level, but not all runners need them. If you don’t want a structured workout or have a training plan from another source, these premium platforms might be excessive.
Multi-tasking is a great way to break up the monotony of steady-state running! If you prefer training this way, you should select a treadmill with a built-in device rack or display compatible with streaming apps.
Do you need a cushioned treadmill?
Soft cushioning, like that found in NordicTrack treadmills, feels nice underfoot. The cushioned deck might even provide some bounce to help you to the next step. But is it good for you? The answer to that is complicated.
These treadmills certainly make running easier and reduce the shock your body is experiencing. On the other hand, your goal might not be to make running easier. A firmer treadmill might better prepare you for race day demands.
If you train primarily outside, a treadmill can be a break from the pounding. I love running on soft NordicTrack treadmills to recover from my harder runs while still getting some miles in. They are easier on my fatigued legs, and they can be on yours, too. If you find yourself recovering from an injury or have chronic pain, a softer treadmill can help you reach your step or mileage goals with reduced pain.
Who is using the treadmill?
A treadmill with a weak motor might be okay for occasional runs for one person. Add a household of runners to the mix, and you will need a stronger motor. If you are training for an upcoming race alongside a dedicated running partner, or three, a higher-powered motor (one closer to 4.0 HP) will be necessary.
Two serious walkers might amount to one regular runner, while two regular runners might equal one running fanatic! Consider the total load the treadmill will be handling when choosing a machine.
How much space will the treadmill take up?
If you haven’t already, check out the Incline treadmill, the NordicTrack X22i, on this list. It is a phenomenal treadmill with an unbeatable incline/decline range. Yet, for all its appeal, the X22i and many other treadmills with stellar features do not fold, requiring a lot more space than a folding treadmill.
Consider the amount of space you have to dedicate to a treadmill. Different machines have different footprints and ceiling height requirements, so you will want to find a machine compatible with your space before making an unfortunate purchase.
Bottom Line – Best Treadmills For Running
Purchasing a treadmill for running requires a few extra considerations than general treadmill shopping. Two of the most important factors are the motor power and deck size. The right treadmill for your training will be powerful enough and large enough to make every run as comfortable and smooth as possible.
Treadmill running can remove many of the barriers to exercise that exist for outdoor running, such as weather, safety concerns, or time constraints. Investing in a treadmill that you enjoy using can help prevent it from turning into a coat rack. We hope we have equipped you to get the most out of your future indoor runs.
How We Test Treadmills
Testing treadmills isn’t as simple as just running on them. We run a lot of miles on each machine, but we also closely inspect its construction and take measurements. We press all of the buttons, try all of the workouts, and explore every content option. This ensures that we know the ins and outs of each treadmill to give you the best insider knowledge.
Our goal is to answer all the questions you might have about each machine in our individual treadmill reviews and highlight the most important aspects of each machine in these best pages. Whether you do a little research or a lot before making a purchase, our goal is to keep you informed and confident in your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size treadmill do I need for running?
The most spacious treadmills on this list have 22” x 60” belt dimensions. We look for belts with a minimum size of 20” x 60” for comfortable motorized running treadmills. Most users should find this size suitable for running. In our experience, running surfaces with a length under 60” may be too short for taller runners or those with longer stride lengths.
Manual treadmills tend to have more narrow belts. This narrow width encourages a narrower step width for improved running form. Yet, a motorized treadmill might be a better choice if the width is important to you.
Is treadmill running good for runners?
Treadmill running differs from road running, but that does not mean it is bad. Treadmill running has been known to change your step length, how many steps you take per minute, and other biomechanical factors. Yet, many researchers consider treadmill running insignificantly different from other types of running.
Treadmill running is no better or worse than other types of running. It comes with its own benefits (higher cushion, entertainment options) and detriments (easier running means fewer training adaptations). Listen to your body’s cues and needs.
If something feels off, consider resting or seeking professional help from a healthcare professional or coach to remedy more serious running problems. Go slow at first, and make sure you are comfortable at the speed and incline you choose. Utilize all of the treadmill’s safety features, like the safety key, to prevent falls.
How long should I run on the treadmill?
The ten percent rule is tried and true running advice: increase your mileage by no more than ten percent per week. It helps you progress safely and slowly. If you are new to running, try starting with walking and slow running intervals of 10 to 30 seconds each for 10-30 minutes.
A good time to stop is when you have a little left in the tank so you will be prepared for your next run. I recommend long runs to be at most 25-33 % of your weekly mileage, depending on how many days per week you run.
It is best to manage your expectations. Don’t make large jumps in mileage, keep your easy days easy, and when the difficulty of running crosses over into the pain of injury, stop!
Can you run on any treadmill?
I suppose it is possible to run on any treadmill, but it is not advisable. There are quite a few limitations to treadmills that could prevent you from running on them–speed range, motor size, belt size, and safety features. The easiest to address is speed range; some walking treadmills simply won’t go fast enough to allow you to run.
As for motor size, we advise that treadmills under 3.0 HP could break down prematurely with frequent running use. Low-power treadmills might be fine if you run infrequently or rarely, though they may present other challenges to regular running.
Not all treadmills are safe to run on. A belt length incompatible with your stride length will increase your chance of injury or falling. Some walking treadmills lack uprights and consoles for support, so running on them would be quite unstable. Poorly made treadmills feel unstable at high speeds, affecting your peace of mind while running even if it does not turn dangerous. In short, you should find a treadmill designed for running.