Last Update: September 2, 2025
Treadmills have only gone up in price (as has everything else). Exercise should be affordable and accessible to everyone, so we have highlighted our best picks for treadmills under $1000. These treadmills won’t be a waste of your money, as other bargain treadmills might. These treadmills provide great short-term savings and long-term investment!
Even trusted brands like Horizon, ProForm, and NordicTrack have picks below the $1k threshold. Most treadmills in this category are ideal for walking, but a few are suitable for shorter, occasional running. Read on to learn more about these great bargain treadmills and who they are best suited to.
Here’s Our List Of The Best Treadmills Under $1000 for 2025
- Best Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
- Best iFIT Treadmill Under $1000: ProForm Carbon TLS Treadmill
- Best Walking Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon T101 Treadmill
- Best NordicTrack Treadmill Under $1000: NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
- Best Compact Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Foldable Treadmill
- Best Manual Incline Treadmill Under $1000: DeerRun A1 Pro Treadmill
- Best Low-Tech Treadmill Under $1000: XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill
- Best Compact Running Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad X21 Treadmill
- Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1000: XTERRA WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill
- Best Sunny Treadmill Under $1000: Sunny Slim Interactive Auto Incline Smart Foldable Treadmill
Best Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.0 AT outclasses other treadmills in the under $1000 category. Horizon has stayed true to its pricing while continuing to make better, upgraded treadmills. The 7.0 AT is from their Studio series, meant for running. The 7.0 AT has a spacious deck, great features, and a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Train without limits on the Horizon 7.0 AT with the fast speed and incline changes. The 7.0 AT supports running or walking with its category-winning features and specs.
Quality is one of the biggest concerns buyers run into when searching for affordable exercise equipment. With the Horizon 7.0 AT, you can put your concerns aside. Lifetime warranties cover the motor and frame.
The Horizon 7.0 AT has a 20” by 60” deck to accommodate running strides. Many other treadmills in this category will sacrifice the deck length for a more affordable build, but not Horizon! There is plenty of room to walk or run. The low step-up height of 8.6” is more convenient for users with mobility concerns. The user weight capacity is a nice 325 lbs, higher than comparable treadmills, proving the 7.0 AT’s solid build.
As our pick for the best treadmill under $1000, the Horizon 7.0 AT sports exciting performance features. It has a 15% incline, making it the best incline on this list. It has a 0.5 to 12 mph range. Perhaps most importantly, it has a 3.0 HP motor, so you can fully use these ranges without prematurely wearing out the motor. The 7.0 AT is a good treadmill for low-mileage running and frequent walking.
Interval training is uncomplicated on the Horizon 7.0 AT. Horizon has equipped its treadmills with QuickDial controls, allowing walkers and runners to change the speed or incline quickly. The 7.0 AT places these dials almost in the path of a runner’s arm swing, so you hardly have to interrupt your workout to make the adjustment.
The 7.0 AT has one of the fastest accelerations and incline changes of any treadmill. This is effective for training with third-party content. No subscription is required to work out with the 7.0! Yet, it makes streaming entertainment or training content a breeze.
+ PROS
- 3.0 HP motor suitable for walking and running
- 0 to 15% incline range
- QuickDial controls for easy speed and incline changes
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Tablet rack for smart devices
- The console combines high-tech capabilities with straightforward tactile buttons and a simple display, making it easy to interact.
- Bluetooth connectivity for apps and wearables (including Apple Watch)
– CONS
- You must toggle between heart rate and app Bluetooth modes
- Not as sleek or high-tech as some exercisers may prefer
Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Here
Best iFIT Treadmill Under $1000: ProForm Carbon TLS Treadmill
Want to work out with a premium service with trainer-led video workouts? The ProForm Carbon TLS is an excellent way to experience iFIT at a lower price. iFIT is a $39/month commitment (unless you pay for an entire year upfront), but the low price of the TLS should help you find some room in your budget.
ProForm Carbon TLS Treadmill
The ProForm Carbon TLS Treadmill automatically adjusts its incline and speed to match your iFIT class when you have an active membership and connect it to the app on your phone or tablet.
The ProForm Carbon TLS is a folding treadmill with a more compact deck size, which saves space. Unfolded, the treadmill measures 67.5” long by 31.6” wide by 56.2” tall. Then folded, it’s 32.9” long, 31.6” wide, and 65.7” tall. It weighs only 205 lbs as shipped, but it will weigh less without all the packing material, making it relatively easy to move around.
While I like other iFIT treadmills more for runners, the TLS isn’t a bad option for beginners or runners running lower mileage. It has an 18” x 55” deck, so it’s a little more compact than the standard 20” to 22” wide by 60” long running deck. The motor is also 2.6 CHP. While we like to see a horsepower of 3.0 or higher for running, this one comes in pretty close.
But let’s talk more about iFIT. It’s a phenomenal training platform that follows professional coaches as they explore outdoor routes all over the world. While iFIT has studio classes, the bulk of its content is outdoor content, which makes the incline changes feel really immersive as you follow your coach up a hill.
I’ve been a huge fan of the Carbon TLX, so I’m really excited about this very similar but even more affordable treadmill.
+ PROS
- Compact footprint
- Pairs with iFIT on your phone or tablet
- Automatic speed and incline adjustments
- Folding frame
- Straightforward console
– CONS
- Very limited features without an iFIT membership or a free account
- Motor and deck size may not be as suitable for runners
Best Walking Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon T101 Treadmill
The Horizon T101 is frequently our choice for the best walking treadmill. It also ranks highly as one of the most budget-friendly and compact treadmills. The T101 may not be the ideal choice for a runner due to its weaker motor. The construction is not quite durable enough for long-distance running, but it is more than enough for walking.
Horizon T101 Treadmill
The Horizon T101 is one of the best budget treadmills available, offering excellent quality and features for its price.
Horizon is not a brand to be overlooked. Their treadmills have impressive warranties and low prices. The Horizon T101 is their most affordable treadmill. It has a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, which covers these treadmill parts for the life of the original owner, but it is non-transferable. Parts and labor are only covered for 1 year.
As a part of the Go series, the T101 was designed for walkers who wanted to dive into their workout as quickly as possible. The console is simple and easy to navigate. It’s as easy as turning on the treadmill and pressing go.
The Horizon T101 comes with built-in programs. It does not require a subscription. These programs are basic and include targets like calories and distance as well as fat burn, hill climb, intervals, and manual. You can also use the device rack to stream training and entertainment content. Bluetooth allows you to connect third-party apps, like Zwift and Peloton.
Though there is no option to decline the treadmill for downhill training, the incline range of 0 to 10% is really nice. The motor is 2.5 horsepower and adjusts the speed and incline very quickly. The deck is 20” x 55”, so it’s not quite as long as most residential running treadmill decks. The treadmill can support a maximum user weight of 300 lbs.
The treadmill weighs only 180 lbs and has transport wheels, which make it easy to move around. These specs combine to make the T101 a great option for walking. The treadmill does not perform as well for running, particularly for larger users, due to its size and power.
+ PROS
- The T101 is a very affordable treadmill.
- The frame and motor are covered by lifetime warranties.
- The T101 does not require a subscription and has onboard training programs.
- The EasyDial controls are intuitive to use.
- Speed and incline adjustments are very fast.
- The maximum user weight limit is 300 lbs.
– CONS
- The T101 is not the best option for running.
- The features and training programs are simpler than some of the other options on this list.
Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon T101 Treadmill Here
Best NordicTrack Treadmill Under $1000: NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
The NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill is one of the most affordable NordicTrack treadmills. It does not have a built-in screen, but you can subscribe to the service for training options. For a treadmill this small and affordable, I was surprised that it had the speed and incline range that it does. New runners and walkers should consider the NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill, available on Amazon.
NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
The NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill is an affordable, non-folding treadmill that connects to iFIT training classes for automatic speed and incline adjustments.
The NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill is from the notorious brand’s affordable Amazon line. It does not have the flashy smart features like NordicTrack’s other products. Still, it uses Bluetooth to connect to the iFIT app on your phone or tablet. You need an iFIT account to use this treadmill, whether or not you subscribe to the service.
iFIT has thousands of treadmill classes led by professional coaches. The T Series 5 Treadmill’s speed and incline automatically adjust to help you train hands-free. The incline range is 0 to 10%, and the speed range is 0 to 10 miles per hour. These specs are not quite as impressive as NordicTrack’s pricier machines, but it is a great value for the price.
This treadmill is suitable for walking and light running. It may not be the best option for runners who are training for hours every day. The motor is only 2.6 continuous horsepower. The deck is 55 inches long and 18 inches wide. The deck is more compact than the standard home treadmill, but most runners should be able to jog comfortably. Runners running faster with a longer stride may have more difficulty with this treadmill.
The T Series 5 Treadmill has a 10-year warranty on the frame. There is a 1-year warranty on the labor and parts. The maximum user weight is 300 lbs. For its size and price, I’m quite pleased with what this treadmill has to offer.
+ PROS
- iFIT compatible
- Automatic speed and incline adjustments with iFIT
- 0 to 10% incline and 10 mph top speed
- The maximum user weight is 300 lbs.
- 10-year frame warranty
– CONS
- Limited features without iFIT
- The compact running deck size may not be suitable for all runners.
- The T Series 5 Treadmill does not fold.
Best Compact Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Foldable Treadmill
What treadmill could be more compact than one that folds twice? The WalkingPad R2 folds nearly into a square for one of the smallest treadmill storage options we have seen. Yet, the R2 still provides a machine sturdy enough for petite users or those with shorter strides to run! Step into the future with this silver and black foldable treadmill.
WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Foldable Treadmill
The R2 folds twice for fantastically compact storage. You could put this treadmill in a closet or under a bed.
The WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Foldable Treadmill gets the “2-in-1” portion of its name from its walking and running modes. While in Walking mode, the treadmill folds out to extend the belt, but the console and handrail bar can be folded down during use. This allows the treadmill to act as an under-desk treadmill. The maximum speed while the treadmill is in walking mode is 3.75 mph. The handrail can be lifted to the upright position for running mode. The handrail’s height is adjustable, so you can find a position that is comfortable for you. The maximum running speed is 7.45 mph. This way, you can get your run in or walk at your desk comfortably. Who needs two treadmills when one can do it all?
The extremely compact design is one of the most appealing aspects of the R2. It can be stored flat or upright. So you can put it in your closet or under your bed. It had a height of 6.3” when lying flat and folded. I can handle users up to 240 lbs, though the treadmill is only 80 lbs. Its light weight makes it easy to move around your home, so you can keep it out of sight. If you prefer not to move it so frequently, the sleek silver colorway and folding belt make the treadmill a futuristic addition to your living space.
WalkingPad pays attention to the details. The compact design only allows for narrow foot rails, which are textured to ensure your step is stable. The treadmill is remote-controlled, so you don’t have to have the console bar propped up to change speed. The R2 does have a device rack for placing your phone. The phone rack doubles as a storage box for storing the safety clip when the treadmill is not in use. The WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Foldable Treadmill allows you to exercise in an unobtrusive and versatile manner.
+ PROS
- The R2 doubles as an under-desk treadmill.
- The WalkingPad R2 is extraordinarily compact for under-bed or closet storage.
- This treadmill can be controlled via remote.
- It only weighs 80 lbs, so it can be easily relocated before and after exercise.
- The silver and black design looks sleek and futuristic.
- The treadmill is small but can accommodate users up to 240 lbs.
– CONS
- The deck is a tad undersized for most runners.
- The app connectivity is questionable. The KS Fit and WalkingPad apps have poor reviews.
Read Our Full Review Of The WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Treadmill Here
Best Manual Incline Treadmill Under $1000: DeerRun A1 Pro Treadmill
As soon as I started writing this section, I remembered that I needed to text a friend and tell her to look into this treadmill. She needs an affordable and portable treadmill that won’t take up too much space. Something no frills is even better. The DeerRun A1 Pro came to mind first, so I feel confident in recommending it to you as well.
DeerRun A1 ProTreadmill
The DeerRun A1 Pro folds flat and weighs only 86 lbs, making it one of the best run-anywhere treadmills.
I’ve been really impressed with DeerRun so far, and the A1 Pro was another example of their innovation. The A1 Pro supports more running than I ever expected. While I had to be conscious of my step length and width to fit on the compact deck, I could run 5+ miles on the A1 Pro without issue.
The A1 Pro does not require a subscription to train, which I am grateful for. You can pair it with the PitPat app if you would like. PitPat acts as a secondary console for your treadmill and has workouts and events you can do.
It’s a really good treadmill, but in my opinion, it has two potential weaknesses, depending on your needs. First, the folding mechanism requires an Allen wrench to unlock and lock the folding mechanism. It’s tedious to do and keep up with the right tool, but it’s an okay trade-off for how compact it folds. Second, the incline mechanism is manual and can be set to only 0% or 6%.
If you can get past the two obstacles I listed, I think this treadmill would be a great addition to your home gym. It doesn’t take up too much space, and right now, it’s priced under $500. I’d run after that deal (literally)!
+ PROS
- Priced under $500
- Folds to only 8” tall
- The 3 HP motor is suitable for walking and running.
- 10 mph maximum speed
- Weighs only 86 lbs
- Supports up to 350 lbs
– CONS
- Overly complicated folding mechanism
- Manual incline
Best Low-Tech Treadmill Under $1000: XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill
When it comes to finding a quality treadmill under $1000, there are not a ton of options. However, the XTERRA TRX1000 is a treadmill I’ve thoroughly tested and can stand behind. It’s a good treadmill for its price and very similar to the Horizon T101 in a lot of ways. If you considered Sole treadmills but decided they were out of your budget, meet XTERRA, Sole’s budget-friendly sister brand.
XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill
The XTERRA TRX1000 is a slim folding treadmill with a frame sturdy enough for a nice jog.
It’s hard to find the XTERRA TRX1000 in our studio. Through a maze of full-sized fitness treadmills, the TRX1000 is folded and nestled among treadmills two or three times (maybe even four times!) its price. But let me tell you, it holds its own.
The TRX1000 is compact, but it gets the job done. You can walk and run on this treadmill, though I wouldn’t use it to train for a marathon. It’s got a lightweight deck that makes it easy to store, but not quite as durable as more expensive models. Still, I had a great time working out on this one.
There are built-in programs and a tablet rack, so you get control over your workout. Touchscreens are more expensive and tend to lock you into a training platform. So in a way, you really get more for less with this machine. It will certainly save you some money!
+ PROS
- Compact folding frame
- Built-in programs
- 5” step-up height
- Tablet rack and cup holders
- Lifetime frame warranty
– CONS
- The manual incline mechanism is minimally effective.
- 1-year motor warranty, 90-day deck, parts, and labor warranty
Read Our Full Review Of The XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill Here
Best Compact Running Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad X21 Treadmill
The WalkingPad X21 is a compact little treadmill designed for walking and running. It folds twice to be small enough to fit in a closet or behind furniture. It’s so small you are in danger of forgetting about it! WalkingPad is a brand nearly synonymous with super compact treadmills. The X21 surprised us with how well it held up to running.
WalkingPad X21 Treadmill
The WalkingPad X21 has a maximum speed of 7.5 mph and is one of the most compact running treadmills we have tested.
The WalkingPad X21 is super compact. The deck folds in half, and then the whole deck folds up onto the motor hood beneath the console. It has transport wheels so you can roll it around. I just wish the wheels were omnidirectional or there were a set of horizontal wheels too. It’s not as easy to slide sideways. It weighs only 93 lbs, so it is very easy to relocate.
I logged several miles of running on the WalkingPad X21 Treadmill. The X21 is the perfect treadmill for runners who don’t have the space or budget for anything else. The 7.5 mph maximum speed is just enough for easy or steady runs. The deck is only 18” x 48”, so you don’t want to sprint on this machine anyway. The speed is controlled by the dial on the crossbar. I really liked using the dial; it felt intuitive to use.
I could feel the seam of the deck underfoot while I was running. It bothered me when I first started running. After a while, it was less noticeable. If you wear high-cushion shoes, it will be even less noticeable.
The console has a phone rack. I used my phone to follow training content from iFIT and Peloton while on the X21. The height of the console makes it hard to actually watch the video, but I could hear the coach and access my phone easily. The X21 does not incline, so you can only follow the speed cues. I didn’t mind that tradeoff for this more compact construction. Overall, I was really pleased with my runs on the X21 given how small it is.
+ PROS
- The X21 folds twice and is one of the most compact running treadmills.
- The maximum speed limit is 7.5 mph.
- The console dial makes it easy to adjust the speed.
- The X21 is portable thanks to its wheels and low weight (93 lbs).
- There is a phone rack to keep your device on hand.
– CONS
- The seam where the deck folds is noticeable underfoot.
- The X21’s motor strength, deck size, and speed limit may not be suitable for all types of running.
Read Our Full Review Of The WalkingPad X21 Treadmill Here
Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1000: XTERRA WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill
The WalkSlim WS300 is a super-compact treadmill that folds flat. It has a smaller footprint than most home treadmills. The WalkSlim WS300 is great for walkers who want an affordable and minimal treadmill. I’ve been really impressed with the quality and durability of XTERRA’s treadmills, so the WS300 was an easy pick for this award.
XTERRA WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill
The XTERRA WS300 folds flat for storage and weighs only 120 lbs, so you can wheel it around easily.
The WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill’s console folds down to the deck. There is a grab bar at the back of the deck to make it easy to lift the treadmill onto its front transport wheels. The treadmill weighs only 120 lbs, so it’s easy to roll around. The treadmill is only 8.5 inches tall when folded down, so it could be stored under furniture with a high clearance. The frame is covered by a lifetime warranty, but parts and labor are only covered for 90 days.
This little treadmill has 10 levels of incline and a maximum speed of 8 miles per hour. I did not expect performance metrics like this on the WS300, and I am very pleased with them. The WS300 may not be the best treadmill for running due to its compact deck size of 16 inches wide by 50 inches long. This may not be enough room for many runners. Additionally, it has a 2.5 HP motor which is lower than our recommendation (3 HP) for running treadmills. Still, some runners may be able to train on the WS300.
Fitness Machine Service Protocol (FTMS) allows cardio equipment to connect to third-party apps. Using Bluetooth and FTMS, the WS300 can connect with Zwift or Kinomap. So even though you don’t have onboard training programs with the WS300, you can connect to several apps through your phone. The WS300 has a device shelf to easily view your screen.
+ PROS
- The WS300 is compact and portable.
- The maximum speed limit is 8 mph, and the maximum incline is 10%.
- FTMS and Bluetooth allow the WS300 to connect with third-party apps.
- The frame is covered by a lifetime warranty.
- There is a device rack to view your phone.
– CONS
- The WS300 is not suited to long-distance running.
- Parts and labor are only covered by a 90-day warranty.
Best Sunny Treadmill Under $1000: Sunny Slim Interactive Auto Incline Smart Foldable Treadmill
The Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Interactive Auto Incline Smart Foldable Treadmill is a very affordable treadmill. Sunny is known for their budget-friendly cardio equipment. I chose the Slim Auto Incline Smart treadmill because it has a compact folding design, an automatic incline, and a larger deck than many of Sunny’s other affordable treadmills.
Sunny Slim Interactive Auto Incline Smart Foldable Treadmill
The Sunny Energy Auto Incline Smart Foldable Treadmill is 57” long x 32” wide x 8.5” tall when folded, allowing it to fit almost anywhere!
If you are shopping for budget-friendly fitness equipment, Sunny Health & Fitness is a brand that should be on your radar. They specialize in making affordable equipment with features that you’ll actually use. The only thing I can’t stand is Sunny’s naming conventions. If you get confused about what Sunny I’m talking about, it’s the SF-T722022 model.
What makes this treadmill stand out from the others is its automatic incline capabilities. Unlike many budget treadmills, you won’t have to hop off the deck and stop the belt to adjust the incline. Just press a button to adjust to one of the 12 incline levels.
The other standout feature is Bluetooth. Sunny makes a free app called “SunnyFit” that’s available on iOS and Android devices. There are trainer-led classes and more to explore. It’s some of the best free treadmill content that I’ve seen, and I really like that Sunny supports their customers this way.
Overall, I like this treadmill for walking. It can be used for running, but be mindful of the deck size (17” x 47”) and the motor (2 HP). Both of these specs are a little below what we typically look for in a running treadmill.
+ PROS
- Folds flat to just under 9” tall
- Compact footprint
- 12 automatic incline levels
- 9 mph top speed
- Bluetooth enabled
- Simple, straightforward console
– CONS
- Need an Allen wrench to fold and unfold
- 47” running surface may be too short for some runners
- 265-lb weight limit
What to Look for in Treadmills Under $1000
Construction
These treadmills are not in our cheapest treadmill category, but they are only one step away. This means buyers should be extra cautious about their purchases. At any price point, treadmill shoppers should be considerate of the build of the treadmill they are contemplating. No matter how much money is saved up front, a treadmill that breaks down too quickly becomes a waste. Some hallmarks of good treadmills are a steel frame, long warranties, and the ability to support running. If a treadmill works for running, it is built to withstand higher forces.
Motors
Many of the motors on treadmills in this category fall under 3.0 HP. This is our chosen threshold for running treadmills. I don’t mind treadmills between 2.5 and 3.0 HP for occasional or low-mileage running. These types of treadmills work better for smaller runners, as their decks are often narrower or shorter. 2.0 HP or higher works great for frequent walking use.
Features
It is not impossible to find high-tech features on treadmills under $ 1,000. These treadmills have USB chargers, Bluetooth connectivity, or automatic training adjustments. It’s hard to find a treadmill that bundles everything into one in this category, so I recommend identifying what is most important to you.
A good way to do this is to plan how you would like to train—watching training content, listening to music, watching entertainment, reading on a Kindle, or simply exercising—and identify what features are necessary to make this happen.
Don’t overlook things like water bottle holders and storage. The main focus of a cardio machine is enabling you to work out successfully. These storage compartments can be a sure way to do so.
Training Content
Many of these treadmills do not require paid content to access all of their features. Sure, they have mostly basic training programs, but many walkers or runners might not want this content. Even if you do, you may be satisfied accessing it through your phone or tablet rather than straight from the machine. I had nearly as much fun training on Horizon’s Go series treadmills with Peloton content as I did on the Peloton Tread itself.
Treadmills under a grand can be a great way to save money on the machine to splurge on the content. You may even want training plans from a running coach near you. Whether you go this route, try Peloton or iFIT, or pave your own way, these treadmills can help you get there. I recommend having a device rack on your machine, because it’s easy not to use; however, it is hard to find an alternative if your treadmill does not come with one.
Storage/Portability
These entry-level treadmills have the added benefit of being compact and portable. They have smaller footprints, taking up far less space than their pricier (and bulkier) counterparts. Treadmills like the XTERRA WS300 or the WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 can be shoved under a bed or even stored in a closet. If you are tight on space, these treadmills can save you the square footage and some money!
How We Test Treadmills
We strive to be as thorough as possible in our review process. We walk and run on these treadmills. We test their onboard training content and any subscription training services they may offer. To test how portable the treadmill is, we move it around (or try to). We do everything we can to recreate how you will use the treadmill.
Our testing and review process also includes testing the treadmill noise and motor responsiveness. We measure deck thickness, step-up height, and more. Our goal is to give you confidence in your treadmill purchase.
Bottom Line – Best Treadmills Under $1000
Treadmills under $1000 can still deliver fantastic workouts. They require a little more planning to ensure you get the features you need, but they offer a wide variety. These treadmills make a great supplement to an already robust training plan or a great entry point for getting into fitness. They appeal to serious athletes seeking a quick and easy training solution when all else fails, as well as a daily training tool for athletes of all varieties.
I recommend treadmills in this category to the budget-minded shopper ready to demolish their fitness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do treadmills go on sale?
The best time of the year to buy a treadmill (financially) is around the holidays. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Year’s are excellent times to shop for most things, but fitness brands, in particular, know consumers have fitness goals on their minds after enjoying all the tasty food the season brings.
Many brands update their models for the new year, so be on the lookout for discounts at the end of the year. Brands often clear out old stock to make way for new models. Sales typically coincide with other holidays, such as Presidents’ Day, Labor Day, the Fourth of July, and Memorial Day. You can also find sales around major running events, such as the Olympics or the Boston Marathon.
Though some times of the year are better than others for buying treadmills at their lowest prices, a treadmill is also an investment in your health. Buying a treadmill while motivated to exercise is a good way to establish a habit. Additionally, there is no time like the present to make life improvements. What could be expensive now can contribute to reduced medical and health expenses.
Do you really need an expensive treadmill?
Pardon the dad joke, but technically, you only need food, water, and shelter. More cardio-specific, you only need a place to walk/run, motivation, and (maybe) good shoes. Jokes aside, what you need in a treadmill comes down to your training methods.
If you are training for a marathon competitively, running high mileage, and planning to do it all on the treadmill, you might need a nice treadmill. However, if you are trying to hit a modest step goal of 10,000 steps or less, all you might need is a treadmill with a working belt.
Evaluating your training preferences, what motivates you, and your space allowance can help you decide which treadmill is right for you. For some, that might mean investing in an expensive treadmill with a large screen and access to streaming apps. For others, it means the treadmills on this list are more than enough!
How long do treadmills last?
A quick survey of treadmill users indicates that treadmills last an average of 10 years (±5 years). However, this data includes users who had treadmills for only a year to those who had a treadmill for over two decades. It’s also difficult to say what “lasting” means.
Some users take meticulous care of their treadmills and replace parts as needed. If you don’t want to start a game of phone tag or an email chain with treadmill customer service departments, a dead treadmill might be the first time something goes wrong.
Many factors affect treadmills’ lifespans. Regular care and proper use can extend the life of a treadmill, but sometimes things just go wrong. How much you use the treadmill can impact its longevity. If you run frequently or have a household with multiple intense users, your treadmill may wear out due to the high mileage it accumulates. Conversely, you might leave your treadmill unused for extended periods, and something can malfunction due to lack of use or not noticing that something is wrong.
Warranties can be a good way to safeguard against a treadmill’s premature death. Remember to make sure what the warranty does and does not cover.
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