Best Compact Treadmills to Maximize Your Workout Space

Compare Best Compact & Foldable Treadmills

How to Choose a Compact Treadmill

Treadmills can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000. That’s a significant investment for your home gym, so you want to ensure you pick the best option. Keep the following considerations in mind to help you choose the best piece of equipment for your budget and your goals.

Lifestyle

Before purchasing a compact or foldable treadmill, Trainer Shannon Gilbertson recommends assessing your lifestyle. "When selecting any piece of at home workout equipment, the most important thing to consider is your overall lifestyle,” she said. “Choose a treadmill that offers a range of workout options or programs, so you have variety while keeping your own personal workout style and preference in mind. If you have limited space, compact and folding treadmills are the way to go!"

Weight Capacity

When picking a treadmill, check its weight limit. Treadmills can typically support 250 to 400 pounds. Lighter aluminum models handle 250 to 300 pounds, while stronger steel ones can carry 300 to 400 pounds. Experts recommend choosing a treadmill with a weight limit of at least 50 pounds more than your own weight. This safeguards the machine and ensures a better workout experience for heavier users.

Speed

Before making a purchase, consider how you plan on using the treadmill. Top speeds for compact treadmills can range from 3pmh to 12mph. If you plan on walking while you work, a treadmill on the lower end of the speed range may be a good choice. But, if you want to run or incorporate faster walking intervals into your workout, opt for a treadmill with higher speed limits.

Incline

While most traditional treadmills offer an incline feature, many compact treadmills don’t. If you’re searching for a simple solution to get in your daily steps, you may not need a treadmill with an incline. But, if you want to experiment with workouts like 12-3-30 or incorporate tougher incline intervals into your exercise program, choose a compact treadmill with an incline of at least 10.

Apps & Subscriptions

Creating an exercise routine with no guidance can feel overwhelming. One 2019 study found that 22% of respondents didn't know which exercises were best for their body. Trainer-led workouts can help take the guesswork out of exercise, making fitness less intimidating.

If you’re looking for a little guidance during your workouts, opt for a small compact treadmill that offers fitness subscriptions like iFit or JRNY. These memberships provide classes for a variety of fitness levels and exercise styles.

Budget

After establishing what you’re looking for in a treadmill, you need a clear idea of how much you should budget. Treadmills can range in price, but here’s a general idea of what treadmill features you can expect within each price range.

Under $1,000

Home workout equipment doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are many affordable compact treadmills under $1,000. These treadmills are often designed for walkers, not runners, and offer minimal features. So, if you’re searching for a low-cost way to get in your daily steps, treadmills in this price range may be a good option.

$1,000-$2,000

If you want a treadmill with a sturdier construction that can accommodate both runners and walkers, expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000. Treadmills in this price range offer higher speeds, intenser inclines, and more advanced workout features.

$2,000+

Treadmills over $2,000 offer premium features like extended cushioning, enhanced incline capabilities, and massive touchscreens. These sturdy pieces of equipment can handle hours of daily use, making them a great option for dedicated runners and walkers who enjoy luxury features.

Compact & Foldable Treadmill FAQs

Which compact treadmills have the highest weight capacity for users with heavier body weights?

While the BowFlex Treadmill 10 is larger than the others on our list, its foldable design and high weight capacity warrants a call out. This treadmill can accommodate users up to 400lbs and offers multiple class options through the connected JRNY membership.

With an average rating of 4.5 stars, users were impressed at this machine’s sturdy structure.

Are there any compact treadmills specifically designed for seniors or individuals with limited mobility?

The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 earns an honorable mention as our top pick for seniors and individuals with limited mobility. Its standout features include a low deck height for easy access, handrails for added balance, and extra cushioning for joint support. Additionally, this treadmill is foldable and easy to store, making it a convenient option.

Can compact treadmills be used by multiple family members with different fitness levels or preferences?

Yes, if you pick the right style. Walking pads like the C2 Mini Foldable Walking Treadmill (see our review here) are a great option for walking, but don't provide much variety since they don't offer inclines or higher speeds. If multiple household members plan on using the treadmill, opt for a foldable option that offers a range of features like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. This ensures users can walk, run or sprint on the machine.

What is the average lifespan for compact and folding treadmills?

Most manufacturers say you can expect your treadmill to last around ten years. However, specific lifespans can vary based on your treadmill model and if you keep up with maintenance. Generally, expensive treadmills will outlast their more affordable counterparts.

Are there any compact treadmills that offer easy assembly or require minimal setup?

Under-desk walking treadmills, like the Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Work Office Treadmill, generally come fully assembled. But, larger treadmills with more advanced features will require a little effort to set up. To simplify the assembly process, many manufacturers allow customers to purchase professional installation.

Bottom Line

Compact treadmills can help you reach your fitness goals without taking up tons of space. When choosing a treadmill, consider your lifestyle and budget before making a purchase. Our best overall pick is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill. It folds up for compact storage, and it features both decline and incline, speeds up to 12 MPH, and an HD touchscreen.

Our Treadmill Experts

To create the most comprehensive guide possible, we consulted the following experts for insights on this article:

Shannon Gilbertson, certified personal trainer and Johnson Fitness & Wellness Partner

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