The Best Curved Treadmills of 2024
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If you’re an avid gym goer, you may have noticed curved treadmills among the rows of traditional motorized treadmills. These non-motorized treadmills have a concave belt that is instead propelled by your body’s motion. Each foot strike you take pulls the belt along. The faster you walk or run, the faster the belt moves. Since the power source is self-generated, you can reach a higher level of exertion in your workout, making this manual variety a great treadmill for your home gym. Due to the curved design, research has found that your gait may adjust, which may be beneficial for runners with certain injuries.
If you’re on the hunt for a curved treadmill, you are probably looking for one that fits your space, budget and training needs. With so many on the market, it’s hard to narrow down selections. Our guide covers a variety of some of the best curved treadmills on the market, available features and the pros and cons of each to help you decide what’s best for you.
Our Picks for the Best Best Curved Treadmills (2024):
- Best Overall Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
- Best Designed Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
- Best Curved Treadmill for Runners: TrueForm Runner
- Best Compact Curved Treadmill: TrueForm Trainer
- Best Budget Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
- Best Value Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
- Most Customizable Curved Treadmill: TrueForm Runner Naboso
- Best for Small Spaces Curved Treadmill: IN10CT Curved Treadmill
Best Overall Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
Assault Runner
Key Features:
- Training Options: Hi-contrast console with time, speed, pace, distance and heart rate; Quick Start button; intervals; competition mode
- Price: $2,999
- Dimensions: 69.9 inches L x 32.8 inches W x 64.4 inches H
- Max User Weight: 350 pounds
- Special features: Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, sweat-resistant handgrips
- Unit Weight: 280 pounds
Durability and functionality are key for curved manual treadmills, and we were impressed with the AssaultRunner Pro’s solid steel frame and handrails and drivetrain system powered by 100 precision ball bearings with 12 roller guides. Assault Fitness offers a five-year warranty on the frame and the 150,000-mile promise on its tread belt offer peace of mind that your investment will last. But we especially liked the added training options available on the high-contrast console screen which tracks metrics such as time, speed, distance and heart rate. It also offers special modes for interval training and cardio competition zones. The ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity is an added plus.
The best part? The AssaultRunner Pro rings in at just under $3,000, which may seem pricey for a non-motorized treadmill, but is the sweet spot when it comes to a good quality curved treadmill. One point of concern is that the belt can get noisy over time, and some reviewers have voiced concerns over the quality of customer service. However CrossFit members swear by the AssaultRunner Pro.
Pros:
- Onboard programs that target time, calories, distance, speed, watts, pace and heart rate monitor
- Bluetooth & ANT+ Connectivity
- Free shipping
Cons:
- Several poor customer service reviews
- Belt can be noisy
Best Designed Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
Assault Runner
Key Features:
- Training Options: Hi-contrast UV-resistant console with time, speed, pace, distance and heart rate; Quick Start button; intervals; competition mode
- Price: $3,499
- Dimensions: 69.9 inches L x 31.7 inches W x 64.4 inches H
- Max User Weight: 400 pounds
- Special Features: Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, sweat-resistant hand grips, two water bottle holders, extra wide side shrouds
- Unit Weight: 289.2 pounds
The AssaultRunner Elite takes all the qualities of the AssaultRunner Pro and amps it up a notch. It comes with the same high-contrast console screen with training programs to track your progress, but it has added features such as a UV-resistant screen so you can move the treadmill outdoors on particularly pleasant days. The console comes with two water bottle holders, a design feature not often seen on curved treadmills, and the same ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity as the Pro.
When it comes to design, AssaultFitness built the Elite’s frame stronger, reinforcing it with heavy duty oval tubing and grip material that add more stability and sweat-resistance to the upright handlebars compared to the Pro, as well as extra wide side shrouds for improved ease when stepping on and off the machine. All this extra goodness comes at a price, though. The Elite costs about $500 more, but it also comes with a more impressive warranty—10 years on the frame and a lifetime warranty on the tread belt.
Pros:
- All training options of the AssaultRunner Pro
- Durable frame and heavy-duty tubing on uprights
- Free shipping
Cons:
- Several poor customer service reviews
- Belt can be noisy
Best Curved Treadmill for Runners: TrueForm Runner
TrueForm
Key Features:
- Training Options: LED screen with manual mode, TrueForm Plus app with daily workout programs, race specific programs for an additional activation cost
- Price: $6,149
- Dimensions: 64 inches L x 31 inches W x 63 inches H
- Max User Weight: 700 pounds or 450 pounds running at full speed
- Special Features: Customizable running surface, performance adapter available to add tension
- Unit Weight: 350 pounds
When TrueForm set out to make a line of curved treadmills to satisfy the needs of pro-teams, commercial gyms, recreational runners, professional athletes and home gym owners 10 years ago, few people knew much about curved treadmills. Fast-forward a decade, TrueForm offers a line of curved treadmills to meet the needs of a variety of runners. For diehard runners who have to move some of their workouts indoors, we like the TrueForm Runner’s flagship curved treadmill. It’s designed with a natural curve that helps shift the body into optimal posture for running while also absorbing impact on overworked joints. TrueForm also offers a workout app for an additional cost.
The TrueForm is a high-end treadmill built with a formed and welded steel frame and formed steel tubing handrail uprights that can withstand higher impact workouts. The drivetrain system is made up of 106 sealed steel ball bearings to keep the tread belt moving smoothly. Built strong enough for commercial use, the TrueForm Runner comes with a best-in-class 20-year frame warranty. But be aware that it also comes with a steep price tag—about twice the average of most curved treadmills on the market.
Pros:
- Artificial turf or rubberized red/blue tread options
- Best in class warranty on frames
- High user weight capacity
Cons:
- Pricey—one of the most expensive on our list
- Heavy and bulky
- No Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity
Best Compact Curved Treadmill: TrueForm Trainer
TrueForm
Key Features:
- Training Options: LED screen with manual mode, TrueForm Plus app with daily workout programs, race specific programs for an additional activation cost
- Price: $3,295
- Dimensions: 64 inches L x 31 inches W x 63 inches H
- Max User Weight: 400 pounds
- Special Features: Offers a shallow curve of 2.5 inches from the lowest part of to the highest point
- Unit Weight: 280 pounds
TrueForm’s scaled back Trainer offers many of the benefits of its flagship TrueForm Runner, but with less bulk and weight. With front transport wheels and a solid, rear handle, the TrueForm Trainer is much easier to move around your workout space, making it our top pick for best compact treadmill in the curved treadmill category. It’s also about half the price of the TrueForm Runner, yet still rugged enough to handle high-impact trainings.
The TrueForm Trainer also has a gentle 2.5-inch curve, which TrueForm claims is the least steep curve on the market, making it a great option for people who are new to curved treadmills or do not feel as stable on a curved treadmill with a steeper curve. Runners still get the benefit of less stress on the joints, higher calorie burn and reduced risk of running injury. While not as durable as the Runner series treadmills, the Trainer comes with a 10-year warranty.
Pros:
- 10-year warranty on frame
- Accommodates heavier runners
- Durable
Cons:
- Belt can squeak over time
- Small LED display
Best Budget Curved Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
Assault Runner
Key Features:
- Training Options: Hi-contrast console with time, speed, pace, distance and heart rate; Quick Start button; intervals; competition mode
- Price: $2,999
- Dimensions: 69.9 inches L x 32.8 inches W x 64.4 inches H
- Max User Weight: 350 pounds
- Special features: Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
- Unit Weight: 280 pounds
The AssaultRunner Pro is a great option for any budget shopper looking to fill their home gym. This non-motorized treadmill comes in at a competitive price just under the industry average. Shipping is also free. And to sweeten the pot, Assault Fitness offers financing for as low as $84/month—far less than most gym memberships.
What you get for that price is a great treadmill packed with a lot of extras you don’t usually find with budget treadmills, including onboard metrics and modes for competition and interval training. Plus, it comes with Bluetooth connectivity. The AssaultRunner Pro is also built to last, and Assault Fitness stands by it with a long-term warranty. Once you purchase this curved treadmill, you won’t need to replace it for years.
Pros:
- Onboard programs that target time, calories, distance, speed, watts and pace, plus a heart-rate monitor and special program modes
- Bluetooth & ANT+ Connectivity
- Free shipping & affordable monthly financing available
Cons:
- Several poor customer service reviews
- Belt can be noisy
Best Curved Treadmill for Small Spaces: AssaultRunner Elite
Assault Runner
Key Features:
- Training Options: Hi-contrast UV-resistant console with time, speed, pace, distance and heart rate; Quick Start button; intervals; competition mode
- Price: $3,499
- Dimensions: 69.9 inches L x 31.7 inches W x 64.4 inches H
- Max User Weight: 400 pounds
- Special Features: Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, sweat-resistant hand grips, two water bottle holders, extra wide side shrouds
- Unit Weight: 289.2 pounds
Everything you love about the AssaultRunner Pro is packed into the AssaultRunner Elite—and then some. If you’re building up your home gym, chances are space is limited. The AssaultRunner Elite has a small footprint (even smaller than the Pro) that fits snugly in small spaces. At under 300 pounds and equipped with two transport wheels and a sturdy built-in handle, this curved treadmill is also easy to reposition, if needed.
Even with a more compact curved treadmill, you don’t want to skimp on special features or quality. The Elite comes with all the bells and whistles of the AssaultRunner Pro, plus the frame is reinforced with heavy-duty oval tubing making it more durable and better able to last through its impressive 10-year warranty. If you’re a heavy user, be aware that some belt maintenance may be needed over time to keep it from clicking.
Pros:
- Built-in handle and two transport wheels
- Lightweight with modest footprint
- All training options of the AssaultRunner Pro
Cons:
- Several poor customer service reviews
- Belt can be noisy
Most Customizable Curved Treadmill: TrueForm Runner Naboso
TrueForm
Key Features:
- Training Options: LED screen with manual mode, TrueForm Plus app with daily workout programs, race specific programs for an additional activation cost
- Price: $6,749
- Dimensions: 64 inches L x 31 inches W x 63 inches H
- Max User Weight: 700 pounds or 450 pounds running at full speed
- Special Features: Proprietary Naboso proprioception technology, customizable tread surface, performance adapter available to add resistance levels
- Unit Weight: 350 pounds
When looking to customize its TrueForm Runner curved treadmills, the company turned to science, consulting with functional podiatrist and human movement specialist Dr. Emily Splichalof to create Naboso technology. This proprietary proprioceptive material promises to improve posture, enhance movement and help improve stability. It’s ideal for performance athletes as well as patients rehabbing from neuroplastic injuries, such as stroke or traumatic brain injuries.
The TrueForm Runner Naboso comes with the same training features and warranty as the Runner, but it can also be paired with a performance adapter tethering system that allows users to add resistance levels to boost their workouts. Customized tread options allow you to change the running surface to artificial turf or rubberized red or blue running track. A countless array of custom frame colors is also available. We love that it has a weight limit of up to 700 pounds, which means it can accommodate larger exercisers who are focused on weight loss. The TrueForm Runner Naboso may seem like a wondrous machine, it does come with a steep price tag—by far the highest on our list of best curved treadmills. But, like the Runner, it’s a commercial-grade treadmill that is built to last throughout its impressive 20-year warranty.
Pros:
- Custom frame colors available
- Performance adapter available for extra cost
- Naboso technology focused on small nerve proprioception to improve posture and enhance movement.
- Best-in-class warranty
Cons:
- Most expensive treadmill on our list
- Shipping not included in price
Best Value Curved Treadmill: IN10CT Health Runner
Amazon
Key Features:
- Training Options: LED screen; manual mode with time, speed, distance, calories, pace, watts and pulse metrics
- Price: $2,990
- Dimensions: 69 inches L x 32 inches W x 61 inches H
- Max User Weight: 400 pounds
- Special Features: Transport wheels
- Unit Weight: 331 pounds
When you invest thousands of dollars on a curved treadmill, you want to get the biggest bang for your buck. The IN10CT, available through Amazon, is a durable, curved treadmill with a solid corrosion-resistant alloy steel frame that rings in at just under $3,000. It also has a less aggressive curve and shock-absorbent slats, making it a great option for beginners and those who prefer lower-impact training.
One drawback to the IN10CT Health Runner is that it's heavier and has a larger footprint than the other treadmills on our list, so it may be harder to move around your workout space despite the front transport wheels and sturdy back handle. That heavier weight adds to its durability, though. You can expect the treadmill to last throughout its five-year warranty.
Related: The Best Amazon Treadmills for Your Home Gym
Pros:
- Good reviews for customer service
- No assembly required
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- May begin to rattle over time with regular use before warranty on parts runs out
- Heavy and bulky
How to Choose the Best Curved Treadmill for You
When you’re ready to purchase a curved treadmill for your home gym, there are some factors you should keep in mind to ensure you get the best unit for your needs.
Training options
Training programs are a nice addition to a curved treadmill. But, not all of the best curved treadmills come with training options beyond tracking distance and pace. Unless you’re using the treadmill for interval training runs or timed sprints, this may not be necessary. While these features add to a curved treadmill’s offerings, you can still track interval times on a running watch or treadmill app. However, be aware that few of these machines offer a console that holds a tablet or smartphone, so a smartwatch may be your best and most convenient option if the machine you choose doesn’t come with training options.
Price
Just because a curved treadmill isn’t motorized doesn’t mean that it comes with a smaller price tag compared to powered, flat treadmills. In fact, many of the best curved treadmills will set you back at least $3,000. These machines are specially designed to offer peak treadmill walking, treadmill running and even sprinting performance. So, you should look at them as an investment toward your good health and fitness. Curved treadmills with more features or that are built for commercial use may set you back more than the average.
Space
Obviously, you’ll want to consider the space you have available for a curved treadmill, and for that, you’ll need at least five feet by three feet, depending on the unit you choose to go with. What’s nice about curved treadmills is that they are fairly easy to move with transport wheels at the front and firm rear handles. They also don’t need to be plugged in, so you’re not limited to placing it in close proximity to an electrical outlet. You can even move them outdoors on nice days.
How We Chose the Best Curved Treadmills
When narrowing down our picks for best curved treadmills, we considered factors such as durability, size, weight and price.
Durability
Curved treadmills are an investment that will set you back approximately $3,000. For that price, you want a treadmill that will last you for hundreds of workouts through the next several years. The more solid the construction and quality of materials used to manufacture the treadmill, the longer it’ll hold up in overtime and through your best workouts. You can tell how well a company is willing to stand up to the quality of its product by the warranties it offers.
Size and weight
This is an important factor when it comes to curved treadmills as most offer the convenience of mobility since they don’t need to be plugged into an electrical outlet. Treadmills, in general, take up a good amount of space in any home gym because they need to cover a runner’s full stride. Not all consumers have the space available in their homes. But because most are non-motorized, they weigh less than their plugged-in counterparts making them much easier to move around.
Price
You can expect to invest around $3,000 for a curved treadmill, or more than twice that amount for more commercial-grade models. That’s not to say you can’t find treadmills that cost less or score a great sales price on a quality one. You want your treadmill to last at least a few years, so be sure you’re not compromising quality for a better price. Our list includes treadmills in a variety of price points to appeal to a wide range of budgets.
Related: The Best Budget Treadmills of 2024
Curved Treadmill FAQs
Are curved treadmills good for long runs?
While you can crank out several miles on a curved treadmill, they’re not intended for distance running. These treadmills are best for high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Do you burn more calories on curved treadmills than regular treadmills?
Yes. Research shows that runners work about 30 percent harder on curved treadmills, which translates to more calories burned.
How do you control speed on a curved treadmill?
Most curved treadmills are non-motorized, meaning they are athlete-powered. You start the belt moving by stepping onto the front “curve.” To control the speed on a curved treadmill you simply speed up or slow down your tempo.
Is a curved treadmill good for walking?
Sure. But be aware that since you are walking on an incline of about six to eight percent, you may walk slower and get tired faster. But, as mentioned above, you’ll be burning more calories in the process.
What is the best posture for walking on a treadmill?
You should walk or run on a treadmill or other flat surface with your head and chest up, shoulders back and your core engaged.
What muscles do curved treadmills work?
The propelling technique required to move the running belt forward in a curved treadmill requires the engagement of more muscles compared to flat treadmills, especially the hamstrings, glutes and core muscles.
Final Thoughts: Is a Curved Treadmill Right for You?
While curved treadmills may not be for everyone, they do offer wellness benefits over traditional treadmills or running outdoors. Studies show that curved treadmill running improves your posture, reduces impact to joints, engages more muscle groups and gives you a more effective workout in a shorter amount of time. Before investing in a curved treadmill, you’ll want to be sure you get the right exercise equipment for your needs. Be sure to check out our buying guide to best curved treadmills to find our list of high-quality curved manual treadmill recommendations.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
