Create More Space in Your Home with the Best Folding Treadmills of 2024

Crush your fitness goals—and make some extra room—with our top-rated picks.

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Who doesn’t love the convenience of being able to lace up with your favorite pair of running sneakers or walking shoes to sneak in some exercise without leaving the house? And this is where home treadmills come in as they’re a fantastic addition to any fitness routine and closely mimic outdoor running. For many of us, though, the problem lies in having the space to house these machines which can sometimes be pretty big.

Traditionally, the best treadmills are on the larger side, can be obtrusive and tend to eat up a lot of your precious floor real estate. But, with the rise of high-quality folding treadmills, the problem of space diminishes. The best folding treadmills are compact, durable and engineered with intuitive folding mechanisms. They offer a simple solution to space and time constraints without having to sacrifice in areas of reliability, features and function.

So whether you are looking to outfit your home gym with a folding treadmill or plan to bring one into the office to reap the benefits of exercise while working, you have come to the right place. In this article we offer a comprehensive review of the top-rated folding treadmills that our team of experts has identified for 2024. Read on to learn all about our top picks.

Our Picks for the Best Folding Treadmills of 2024:

• Best Overall Folding Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
• Best Folding Treadmill Runner-Up: Sole Fitness F80
• Best Folding Treadmill for Running: ProForm Carbon T10
• Best Folding Treadmill for Walking: NordicTrack EXP 14i
• Best Smart Folding Treadmill: ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
• Best Compact Treadmill for Small Space: Echelon Fitness Stride Treadmill
• Best Folding Treadmill for Incline Workouts: Sole Fitness F63 Treadmill
• Best Folding Treadmill Under $500: Walking Pad Foldable Walking Treadmill
• Best Folding Treadmill for Beginners: Echelon Fitness Stride-S Smart Treadmill

Best Overall Folding Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

NordicTrack

Specs:

• Dimensions: 78.5 inches L x 35.6 inches W x 65 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 60 L inches x 20 inches W
• Weight: 303 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: Negative three decline to 12 percent incline
• Folding capabilities: Yes; NordicTrack’s SpaceSaver and Easylift help the deck collapse and secure into place. Does not fold flat.
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty

The Commercial 2450 Treadmill is NordicTrack’s new addition to its treadmill family, pairing a sharp design with helpful features. This treadmill features a large, 22-inch touchscreen that can be moved in all directions, a wide range of incline and decline adjustments, the ability to reach up to 12 miles per hour, and of course, NordicTrack’s proprietary SpaceSaver folding construction.

With the included iFIT trial, you can work out with trainers who can make speed and incline adjustments during your workout thanks to NordicTrack’s integrated AutoAdjust programming. You’ll also have the option to roam around the globe with virtual runs, hikes, and races alongside iFIT trainers.

Check out our NordicTrack Commercial 2450 review for more information on this treadmill! 

Pros:

• Touchscreen can be moved up and down or side to side
• Built-in folding capabilities
• Change speed and incline with the touch of a button

Cons:

• Extra features factor into the treadmill’s price
• Folds upright and not flat, which may not work for some buyers

Best Folding Treadmill Runner-Up: Sole Fitness F80

Sole

Specs:

• Dimensions: 82 inches L x 37 inches W x 66 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 60 inches L x 22 inches W
• Weight: 278 pounds
• Weight capacity: 375 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: Zero to 15 levels
• Folding capabilities: Yes, the Easy Assist Folding uses a hydraulic system to help guide it up and lowers it back down hands-free.
• Warranty: Lifetime frame, motor and deck warranty, five-year electronics and parts warranty, two-year labor warranty

The Sole Fitness F80 treadmill has an Easy Assist Folding feature that uses a hydraulic system to help you fold the deck. The steel beam under the deck lifts and guides it until it clicks securely in place. To lower the deck, simply release the bar and the hydraulic system will guide it back down on its own. There are four wheels to help move the machine, but it weighs 278 pounds so it may be challenging to maneuver.

The steel frame has crossbeams that connect to side rails which help keep this treadmill sturdy while you run. The deck is 60 inches long and 22 inches and has a textured two-ply belt that’s roomy enough for those with a bigger stride. It’s eight inches from the ground so you can step on and off easily.

This treadmill is suitable for those who like to walk or run and has a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour—a five-minute mile. If you’d like to challenge yourself further, there’s the option to incline up to 15 levels. A Studio membership is not required, but if you choose to subscribe for an additional $20 per month you’ll have access to over 3,000 instructor-led workouts including ones for off the treadmill. Classes cannot be streamed using the nine-inch LCD, but there is a holder for your device. During your workout, the display tracks your metrics including speed, incline, distance traveled, calories, pace and heart rate using the included chest strap. 

Check out our Sole Fitness F80 treadmill review for more information! 

Pros

• Large running deck
• Easy Assist Folding
• Lifetime frame, motor and deck warranty
• Chest strap to monitor heart rate is included

Cons

• Heavy

Best Folding Treadmill for Running: ProForm Carbon T10

ProForm

Specs:

• Dimensions: 73 inches L x 34 inches W x 58 inches H 
• Running area dimensions: 55 inches L x 20 inches W
• Weight: 205 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: 0-12 percent
• Folding capabilities: Yes, the patented SpaceSaver design allows you to fold up the deck.
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts, one-year labor

If your exercise routine is mainly running, the ProForm Carbon T10 has a roomy 55-inch by 20-inch deck. It features the brand’s patented ProShox cushioning, which is designed to help lessen the impact of each stride. Runners can reach speeds up to 12 miles per hour and have the option to make it more challenging by increasing the incline up to 12 percent. The fan offers three levels of breeze to keep from overheating. If you want to skip the iFit membership subscription for $39 a month, the 10-inch screen will display your metrics such as distance and calories burned while you run. Speed and incline can be adjusted easily from the quick touch buttons under the screen.

Related Post: The Best Home Treadmills for Running

If you prefer a more structured program, iFit classes can be streamed on the touchscreen display. These interactive classes can be customized to fit your needs such as time constraints or goals you want to work towards. The speed and incline are adjusted automatically during an iFit class to match the terrain and workout. There are also class options for off the treadmill. 

Pros:

• Folding deck
• ProShock cushioning helps absorb impact
• Bluetooth compatible speakers

Cons

• Running deck may feel short to taller users

Best Folding Treadmill for Walking: NordicTrack EXP 14i

NordicTrack

Specs:

• Dimensions: 79.9 inches L x 35.08 inches W x 59.25 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 60 inches L x 20 inches W
• Weight: 229 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: Negative three percent decline to 12 percent incline
• Folding capabilities: Yes; NordicTrack’s SpaceSaver and Easylift help the deck collapse and secure into place. Does not fold flat.
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty

Looking for a treadmill, not because you have a need for speed, but because you like to walk at your own pace? NordicTrack’s EXP 14i can help. With a roomy, cushioned running belt, streaming capabilities, plus generous decline, incline and speed capacity this treadmill aims to help you get the most out of your daily stroll.

AutoAdjust technology is also built into the EXP 14i to work alongside iFIT programming, along with a 14-inch HD touchscreen to stream workouts on. When you’re done and ready to move on with your day, use the SpaceSaver and EasyLift features to fold up the deck and store the treadmill away for next time.

Check out our NordicTrack EXP 14i review for more information on this treadmill! 

Pros:

• NordicTrack’s folding tech built into the design
• iFIT trial with purchase
• Includes speakers, workout fan, tray and device shelf

Cons:

• Not as big of a screen as the Commercial 2450
• iFIT costs an extra membership fee

Best Smart Folding Treadmill: ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

ProForm

Specs:

• Dimensions: 35.3 inches L x 77.3 inches W x 59.6 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 60 inches L x 20 inches W
• Weight: 300 pounds
• Weight capacity: 263 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: Negative three percent to 15 percent
• Folding capabilities: SpaceSaver Design with Easy Lift Assist, a one step folding technology which collapses the treadmill in half. Arms do not collapse so it does not lie flat. Stored upright
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two years parts warranty, one year labor warranty

Claiming the spot for best smart folding treadmill is the ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill. Techies and those who prefer larger monitors are likely to be impressed with the Pro 9000’s 22-inch Smart HD Touchscreen. Its clarity and vivid images allow users to enjoy interactive training opportunities via iFIT. Through the iFIT platform, you can access thousands of live and on-demand classes that can be taken on or off the treadmill. A 30-day family membership is included with your purchase but beyond that, a paid membership is required.

While the smart technology is impressive, the components of the ProForm Pro 9000 are nothing to sneeze at either. Featuring a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor Mach Z, this treadmill has a top speed of 12 mph as well as a 12 percent incline and negative three percent decline to match the terrain of whatever iFIT class you are taking.

For more information on this treadmill, check out our in-depth ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill review. 

The elite trainers who lead these classes can control both the speed and incline so you can focus on the workout itself. Whether you are virtually running through the hills of California or taking a yoga class on the beach in Mexico, it is like having a personal trainer at your disposal. Users will enjoy the ReBound Pro cushioning on this spacious 20-inch by 60-inch running deck. While the running deck is large, the weight capacity is only 300-pounds, not ideal for larger users.

Other notable specs include a console cooling fan, Bluetooth audio capabilities and wireless heart rate monitoring with the use of the SmartBeat Forearm Heart Rate Monitor (sold separately). And, of course, the Pro 9000 is a folding treadmill. The EasyLift one step folding system is easy to use and allows you to store the treadmill vertically when not in use.

Pros

• Large touchscreen monitor
• Spacious and cushioned running deck
• iFIT enabled
• Automatic trainer controls
• Bluetooth audio
• Incline and decline options
• Manual mode option if you do not want iFIT

Cons

• Weight capacity is only 300-pounds
• Reports of the screen shaking at higher speeds

Best Folding Treadmill for Small Space: Echelon Fitness Stride

Echelon

Specs:

• Dimensions: 69.3 inches L x 31 inches W x 49.2 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 55 inches L x 20 inches W
• Weight: 156 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: 10 percent max
• Folding capabilities: Auto-fold feature that allows for easy horizontal and vertical storage. Place console and handlebars in-position and simply press a lever to fold
• Warranty: Optional protection plans for purchase, money-back guarantee within first 30 days

For those living in small quarters, finding a compact treadmill is top priority. The Echelon Stride is a viable option for those of you with limited space yet is made with quality components, a unique folding design and features a footprint measuring just 69.9-inches long, 31-inches wide, and 49.2-inches high. The Stride features an auto-fold technology which folds the treadmill down to just 10-inches deep, much more compact than most folding treadmills on the market. It can easily be stored both vertically or horizontally which means you can discreetly tuck it away when not in use.

The Stride comes with a 3.0 horsepower motor which supports speeds up to 12 mph and an incline of 10 percent. The running deck is a bit smaller than others measuring 20-inches by 55-inches, a small price to pay for the convenience of a portable and storable treadmill. That said, taller individuals with longer strides may find this restrictive.

The Stride does not come with a ton of features. But it does have a small LED monitor which reads out basic fitness metrics (pulse, distance, incline, time, speed, calorie-burn), eight pre-programmed workouts, a smart phone holder, two water bottle holders and a secure tablet holder. The Echelon Stride has Bluetooth connectivity so users can access the Echelon Fit App which provides access to more than 3,000 live and on-demand connected fitness classes that vary in type, length and intensity. You do get a free 30-day trial with your purchase of the Stride but after the trial is over, a paid membership is required.

For more information on this treadmill, check out our Echelon Stride review! 

Pros

• Compact
• Easily folded and stored
• Interactive programming available via the Echelon Fitness App
• Provides basic fitness metrics
• 30-day money back guarantee

Cons

• Relatively lower horsepower so not great for strenuous running
• Smaller running deck
• Only up to 10 percent incline

Best Folding Treadmill for Incline Workouts: Sole Fitness F63 Treadmill

Sole Fitness

Specs:

• Dimensions: 82 inches L x 35 inches W x 66 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 60 inches L x 20 inches W
• Weight: 254 pounds
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline: 0–15 percent
• Folding capabilities: Patented all gear and rack pinion system with a safety lock deck design to lock the deck in place when folding in upright position. The Easy Assist Folding Deck Design is a one step easy release. Does not lay flat
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty motor and frame, three years deck, electronics and parts warranty, one-year labor warranty

Sometimes, an uphill battle during a run is the heart-pounding challenge you’re looking for. This affordable treadmill boasts some impressive specs that make it an attractive choice for avid walkers or joggers looking to exercise at an incline. Powered by a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor (CHP), the Sole F63 tops out at 12 miles per hour and offers 15 levels of incline. While a 3.0 CHP motor is more than powerful enough for even the most intense walking workouts, it will not support sustained or strenuous running. The large, 20-inch by 60-inch running surface has a patented cushioning which, according to Sole, reduces the impact on joints by 40 percent. While we can’t speak to the numerical accuracy of this claim, we can say that running on the F63 sure does feel nice.

For more information about this treadmill, check out our in-depth Sole F63 review.

The F63 features cooling fans, speed settings and incline controls on the armrests, an integrated device holder, Bluetooth Audio Speakers and a USB port for charging. There is a small, 6.5-inch LCD monitor which displays information on speed, incline, time, distance traveled, calories, pulse and pace when using any of the 10 pre-programmed workouts. And, with Bluetooth technology, you can ues Sole’s free app to download and track your fitness metrics. Alternatively, you can also transfer this information to other fitness apps such as Fitbit, Record, Mapmyrun or Apple Health. Thanks to the Bluetooth capabilities, you can also more accurately track your heart rate with the included chest strap to monitor your efforts and stay in the zone during your next walk.

While the Sole F63 lacks the thrills and frills found on some of the more tech-heavy and expensive treadmills, its durable frame, EasyAssist folding deck design, lightweight, noteworthy components and transport wheels make it a solid choice for walkers looking to save space and money.

Pros

• Motor well-suited for walking/jogging
• Cushioned running surface
• Bluetooth capabilities
• Price

Cons

• Motor won’t support strenuous running
• Some reviewers reported the fans are weak

Best Folding Treadmill Under $500: WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill

WalkingPad

Specs:

• Dimensions: 56.37 inches L x 21.5 inches W x 5.0 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 47.24 inches L x 16.5 inches W
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 220 pounds
• Maximum speed: 3.75 miles per hour
• Incline: None
• Folding capabilities: Yes; uses a unique 180-degree fold to make the treadmill more compact at 32.5 inches by 21.5 inches
• Warranty: None, only a 30-day return window

On a tight budget but still want to get a folding treadmill for your home gym? The WalkingPad is priced under $500 and folds in a 180-degree motion to condense it down to a little more than half its full size. The P1 is constructed to sense how fast you want to go with its tri-speed setup, with the front indicating an increase in speed, the middle for maintaining speed and the back for slowing down. Since there’s no digital display, you can use this design, remote control, or your phone to up the speed to 3.75 miles per hour.

The WalkingPad has no handlebars, so proceed with caution if you choose to run on it. If you need extra stability, use a standing desk to hold onto for safety.

Related Post: The Best Treadmills Under $500

Pros:

• Available for under $500
• Works well as a walking desk
• Can fold in half for storage

Cons:

• Only reaches 3.75 miles per hour, which may not work for some runners
• No handlebars
• No digital monitor, have to use phone or remote control to change speed and track workout data

Best Folding Treadmill for Beginners: Echelon Fitness Stride S Smart Treadmill

Echelon

Specs:

• Dimensions: 74 inches L x 31 inches W x 53 inches H
• Running area dimensions: 59 inches L x 20 inches W
• Weight: 176 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Maximum speed:12 miles per hour
• Incline: Zero to 10 percent
• Folding capabilities: Yes, use Echelon’s auto-fold. Fold the screen down and push the handlebars up before pressing the pedal lever to activate folding.
• Warranty: One-year coverage for parts and labor

The Echelon Fitness Stride-s Smart Treadmill has a ton to offer runners—its long, cushioned running deck contains a safety bar designed to protect both your joints and your floors, plus a 2.0 CHP motor lets you reach speeds of 12 miles per hour. Stream workouts via the 10-inch HD touchscreen, or opt to track time spent, speed, incline, distance and pulse with the touch sensor-embedded handlebars. It also uses one of Echelon’s hallmark design features, its proprietary auto-fold, which collapses the treadmill down flat for easy storage.

The Stride-s has streaming capabilities and comes with a thirty-day trial to the Echelon app. This gives you access to thousands of workouts, including worldwide scenic routes, music workouts and races, plus on-demand and live classes. After the trial has concluded, you can choose to pay for a membership on a monthly, yearly or two-year basis.

Pros:

• Auto-fold tech folds Stride-s flat (10 inches tall)
• Built-in wheels for easy moving
• Cushioned running deck
• Built-in cupholders, heart rate sensors and HD touchscreen

Cons:

• Membership costs a separate fee after 30-day trial
• One-year warranty on parts and labor, but requires a separate fee to extend coverage

Why Buy a Folding Treadmill?

Perhaps the biggest draw to a folding treadmill is to save space. Unlike traditional treadmills, folding treadmills can be collapsed and stored out of the way when not in use. This is a particularly important feature for those who live in small spaces.

How to Choose a Folding Treadmill

Maximum speed

Depending on your experience and intended use, the top speed of the treadmill is an important factor to consider before purchasing. If you are a serious runner who plans to run fast or for a sustained period of time, you want a folding treadmill with a higher maximum speed. Most support speeds somewhere between seven and 12 mph. If you are just looking to walk or do some casual jogging, a lower maximum speed works just fine.

Incline

Incline capabilities serve two purposes. First, it allows for variability in your training which affects the intensity of any workout. A study conducted in 2013 found that running on an incline increased the heart rate by almost 10 percent when compared with flat running. Second, if you are using your folding treadmill to train for a race, incline and/or decline capabilities allows you to better prepare for the terrain you may encounter.

Size

The size of your folding treadmill is especially important if you are equipping a smaller space. Knowing how much floor space or overall real estate you have to work with is imperative before making any purchase. If the treadmill doesn’t fit in your home gym, then it is a moot point.

Weight capacity

The weight capacity becomes an important factor for larger individuals. Generally speaking, treadmills with a higher weight capacity are sturdier so even if you are not close to the max but a bigger person overall, a higher weight capacity means it is less likely to shake or break with your use.

Cost

This seems like it should go without saying but knowing your price point is the first step to buying any piece of exercise equipment including a treadmill. If you can’t afford it then you have spent all this time researching a product you just can't get.

Folding Treadmill FAQs

What is the best horsepower for a treadmill?

This is highly dependent on your intended use. If you plan to run for a sustained period of time and/or at higher speeds, you need a treadmill with a higher horsepower. The general rule of thumb is that a horsepower of three or greater is better suited for sustained or more strenuous running.

Do treadmills help you lose weight?

Any form of exercise, including working out on a treadmill, is an important part of a weight loss journey. But it is just that—one part of it; a healthy diet and consistency in exercise are critical to losing weight. In one study, experts analyzed the weight loss in individuals who ran several times a week with no change in their diet and other individuals who ran and adopted a healthier diet. While both groups lost mass, the fat loss seen in those who dialed in their diets was greater.

How long should I be on the treadmill?

The length of time you spend on the treadmill depends on the workout you are doing. High Intensity Interval Training runs are generally shorter in nature. Moderate or lighter intensity exercise can be performed for a longer period of time.

How good is walking on a treadmill for you?

Yes! Studies have shown that walking can improve your overall health and even extend your lifespan. The amount and intensity of the ideal walk for health varies by age but there is no question that walking is beneficial to your well-being.

Is a treadmill good for belly fat?

Despite what many of us wish, it is very difficult to target one area of the body, particularly the abdomen, for fat loss. As mentioned above, a treadmill enables you to exercise which is a critical part of fat loss. Diet and exercise are the keys to success here but even when combined, it is not likely you will lose weight in just one area of the body.

Can foldable treadmills incline?

Yes! Some folding treadmills not only have incline abilities but can also decline.

Final Thoughts: Is a Folding Treadmill Right for Your Space?

Folding treadmills have gained a lot of attention in recent years as home workouts are on the rise. Not everyone has the space to house traditional treadmills and folding treadmills have offered those who live in smaller spaces a way to get in a workout without leaving their home. These foldable home treadmills vary greatly in price, size and features. Some come dressed to the nines with all the bells and whistles more often associated with commercial-grade treadmills whereas others are more basic, meeting the needs of those who prefer simplicity over technology. Whatever your needs and fitness goals are, there is a fantastic folding treadmill waiting for you on our top picks for the best folding treadmills.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.