You’ve already had the debate of treadmill vs elliptical and decided that you wanted a treadmill to keep your fitness up during your injury recovery. Only to realize there are so many options to choose from that it seems like there is just a coin-flip of difference between the different treadmills.
While we have tons of treadmill reviews you can check out, we wanted to create a list of our favorite machines for those who need the lowest impact for injury recovery. Below are our top 3 treadmills for those looking to keep their fitness up while not upsetting their doctor.
1. NordicTrack X11i
The NordicTrack X11i is our favorite treadmill for so many reason, but one of the key ones for those recovering from an injury is the fact that it has a fantastic suspension system. Equipped with NordicTrack’s Reflex Cushioning, the treadmill not only cushions your run but springs back to help you keep going for miles.
Addition Pros:
- Range workout – Decline to -6 percent or up to 40 percent incline to maximize workout time and ease pressure on joints.
- Full entertainment system – From YouTube to the news, you can find something to keep you entertained while you rehab.
Potential Cons:
- Cost – The X11i isn’t the cheapest machine on the market and is currently $2,199.
- Space – You need quite a bit of space for this machine which is 70.2″ long, by 39.6″ wide and 71.6″ tall. It also does not fold up, so no space-saver here.
2. ProForm Premier 1300
Next up is the ProForm Premier 1300 for all your treadmill needs. Built into this sturdy machine is ProShox™ technology, which is an multi-point air shock system to allow natural movement on the treadmill and comfortable resistance.
Additional Pros:
- Stay busy – It comes programmed with 34 different workout apps to keep you from getting bored with your treadmill workouts.
- Space-friendly – The wide running belt is 20”x60” and the deck will fold up for easy storage when not in use.
Potential Cons:
- Cost – Pricier than the X11i with fewer features, the Premier 1300 costs $2,499.
- Limited incline – There is no decline option and can only incline to 12 percent.
3. Sole F85
Rounding out our treadmills for injury recovery is the Sole F85. The F85 brings a quieter machine as well as a cushioned ride to treadmill usage with its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology, which is rated to reduce up to 40 percent of running impact.
Additional Pros:
- Spacious and space-friendly – Giving 2 more inches than the Premier 1300, the F85 has a 22”x60” belt and will fold up to save space.
- Incline – While the F85 can’t touch the X11i’s incline abilities, it does incline to 15 percent.
Potential Cons:
- Limited tech – No touchscreen entertainment here, so while you get 10 programs, that’s it for your workout variety.
- Cost – Price fluctuates on this machine, and while sales can bring it to $1,999, the standard price is $2,499.
Hopefully this has helped you get a kick start on your treadmill buying process, so you can get back to your normal fitness routine!