The Best Treadmills for Heavy People: High Weight Capacity Treadmills to Take You on Your Fitness Journey

Sturdy frames, long running decks and high weight capacities make a treadmill more effective for heavy people. These are the best treadmills for heavier users.

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Treadmills, like people, come in all different shapes and sizes. If you’re a heavier or bigger user due to your weight or height, it’s important to look for a treadmill that supports your frame. Individuals taller than 6' 4" and even bodybuilders can benefit from buying a high-capacity treadmill for their home gym. This can include features such as a wide running surface, stronger horsepower motor and higher user weight capacity. 

Still, with so many treadmills on the market—and many weight capacities 250 pounds or less—it can be tough to figure out where to start. Luckily, we’ve done all of the legwork for you to assemble a list of the best treadmills for heavy people and what makes them effective. Our guide will highlight our top picks, what makes them more durable, which features they offer and how to determine which treadmill is right for you. 

Our Picks for the Best Treadmills for Heavy People:

• Best Overall Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole Fitness F80
• Best Folding Treadmill for Heavy People: NordicTrack EXP 7i
• Best Durable Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole Fitness F65
• Best Splurge Treadmill for Heavy People: ProForm Pro 9000
• Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Expanded Deck: Echelon Stride-5s
• Best Treadmill for Heavy People for Streaming: NordicTrack Commercial X32i

Best Overall Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole Fitness F80

Sole

Key Features:

• Price: $2,799.99
• Powerful 3.5 horsepower motor
• Cushion Flex Whisper Deck
• Six preset workout programs
• Lifetime frame warranty

Our best overall treadmill for heavy people is the versatile Sole Fitness F80. This mid-level Sole Fitness treadmill has a high weight capacity of 375 pounds, a powerful 3.5 horsepower motor and six built-in workout programs that include cardio, HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and fat burn. It’s a good treadmill for weight loss, thanks to its max speed of 12 miles per hour and range of 15 incline levels. This machine easily lets you crank up workouts from light to challenging. It also has a large running surface of 22-by-60 inches, which is two inches wider than most standard-sized running decks. While two inches may not seem like much, it can make a big difference in your stride and space for arm movements.

Both stable and powerful, this high-capacity treadmill can easily support big people and taller users (but, it’s still great for the entire household if you have users of all sizes and weights). Sole F80 comes with a handful of high-tech features as well, such as a USB port for charging your devices, Bluetooth audio speakers that can connect to your phone or tablet to play music, an integrated tablet holder and cooling fans. It also has built-in heart rate monitors on both hand grips, which can be helpful if you’re trying to maintain a heart rate in your fat burning zone. In addition, the tread belt includes Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology that reduces impact by up to 40 percent when compared to running on asphalt, which can help prevent joint pain.

Pros:

• Cushioning reduces impact by up to 40 percent
• Built-in workout programs include fat burn and HIIT
• High user weight capacity of 375 pounds
• Speakers come with Bluetooth connectivity

Cons:

• Shorter handrails
• Requires two people to transport

Best Folding Treadmill for Heavy People: NordicTrack EXP 7i

NordicTrack

Key Features:

• Price: $1,199
• Seven-inch tilt HD touchscreen
• Google Maps integration
• One-touch speed and incline controls
• Foldable with just one push

NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill is a great budget treadmill that doubles as our best folding treadmill for heavy people. This machine comes with a sturdy build and a higher user weight capacity of 300 pounds. It also has an integrated SpaceSaver Design with EasyLift Assist that lets you fold this treadmill with just one push; many people won’t even need help from a second person to fold and store it when it's not in use. Good for beginners and advanced walkers or runners alike, the EXP 7i has a max speed of 10 miles per hour and an incline range of up to 12 percent. One nice feature that this machine offers is one-touch controls for speed and incline on its console, which has a clean and crisp display that includes a seven-inch tilt HD touchscreen.

NordicTrack EXP 7i is also compatible with the iFIT fitness app ($15 per month), which offers subscribers numerous interactive features. This includes SmartAdjust machine learning technology that tailors your workouts to your fitness level and personal metrics, a Google Maps integration that lets you walk or run anywhere in the world and monthly challenges to push you harder to achieve your goals. Overall, this heavy-duty treadmill has a mid-level 2.6 CHP motor, shock absorption in the running deck and a two-year parts warranty, which for the low price tag are truly a steal.

Pros:

• SmartAdjust technology adapts machine to you
• Clean and convenient interface
• Budget-friendly price tag
• Shock absorption in running deck

Cons:

• iFIT subscription required for full content access
• Touchscreen is small for watching classes
• Shorter treadmill belt

Best Durable Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole Fitness F65

Sole

Key Features:

• Price: $2,399.99
• Up to 15 levels of incline
• Seven-and-a-half-inch backlit LCD display
• Oversized running deck of 22-by-60 inches
• Lifetime warranty on frame and motor

Sole Fitness F65 is a more entry-level model compared to the F80 machine, but that doesn’t mean this treadmill skimps out on quality build. Sole Fitness treadmills are known for its durability and excellent construction, which is why Sole Fitness F65 comes in as our best durable treadmill for heavy people. Not only does this treadmill have a high weight capacity of 350 pounds and a powerful motor of 3.25 horsepower, it’s also designed with a thicker running track that includes Sole Fitness’ patented Cushion Flex Whisper Deck. This technology is designed to reduce impact on your joints by up to 40 percent when compared to running on asphalt.

Plus, like the F80 model, F65 has an oversized running surface of 22-by-60-inches, which is two inches wider than standard industry size. It features six built-in workout programs, including fat burn, and comes with a fully-loaded console that has more than 20 controls. With a max speed of 12 miles per hour and up to 15 levels of incline, this treadmill offers plenty of versatility that makes it equally suitable for HIIT workouts, all-out sprints or for use as a walking treadmill. In addition, Sole F65 offers numerous convenient features, such as an integrated media tray, a USB charging port, Bluetooth-integrated speakers and a large safety lanyard.

Pros:

• Fully-loaded console with more than 20 keys
• Speed and incline controls on arm rests
• Speakers are Bluetooth compatible
• 350-pound weight capacity

Cons:

• Larger treadmill may not fit smaller home gyms
• Shorter handrails

Best Splurge Treadmill for Heavy People: ProForm Pro 9000

Amazon

Key Features:

• Price: $2,299
• 22-inch HD touchscreen
• Stream scenic workouts with iFIT
• CoolAire fan with adjustable breeze
• Decline up to negative three percent

If you’re looking for a high-end treadmill with lots of features, our favorite splurge treadmill for heavy people is ProForm Pro 9000. This high-tech machine comes fully loaded with interactive technology, connectivity and an ulta-sleek design. It has an impressive 22-inch HD touchscreen that’s arguably its standout feature, a built-in CoolAire fan, QuickSpeed controls on the console that easily let you adjust speed or incline and dual two-inch speakers that are Bluetooth-enabled. This treadmill can also be used with iFIT, which nets a cinematic workout experience on the oversized screen.

ProForm Pro 9000 comes with a 300-pound weight capacity, a roomy 20-by-60-inch running deck and the brand’s trademark ReBound Pro Cushioning, which creates a cloud-like surface to exercise on. A unique feature this machine also offers is the ability to run or walk on a decline, and it can be declined up to negative three percent for downhill workouts. Those using iFIT for their ProForm Pro 9000 workouts can also take advantage of hands-free workouts, since the machine will auto-adjust your speed and incline to match the program you’re following. People with higher budgets can also consider the popular Peloton Tread, another splurge-worthy buy that offers plenty of high-end features, a robust Peloton community and a high max user weight.

Pros:

• Auto-adjusting speed and incline with iFIT classes
• Powerful 3.6 CHP Mach Z motor
• Cloud-like running surface
• EasyLift Assist for easy storage

Cons:

• Some users report slow touchscreens
• Fan is directed at the chest, rather than the face

Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Expanded Deck: Echelon Stride-5s

Echelon

Key Features:

• Price: $2,499.99
• 16 levels of incline
• Max user weight of 400 pounds
• 24-inch rotating HD touchscreen
• Top speed of 12.5 miles per hour

With an industry-leading max user weight of 400 pounds, Echelon Stride-5s is not only a high-capacity treadmill, but our favorite machine with an expanded deck. This treadmill has an oversized 22-by-60-inch running surface that provides plenty of room for walking and running, and those extra inches can be helpful for individuals with larger or longer strides. We also love this machine for its comfortable design that includes conveniently curved handrails, a lower step up height of six-and-a-half inches that makes getting on and off the machine much easier and a cushioned running deck to help reduce impact on your joints. It also has a cinematic 24-inch HD touchscreen that can rotate 90 degrees for cross-training or floor-based workouts (this machine is compatible with an Echelon membership, which costs $34.99 per month for premium fitness classes).

While many high-end treadmills have a max speed of 12 miles per hour, this machine offers an extra half-mile of speed for an additional push, with a top speed of 12.5 miles per hour. It also has 16 levels of incline that make Echelon Stride-5s a great option for HIIT workouts or steep climbs. There are also Quick Select speed and incline settings on the console, but these jump in high increments of three (incline options, for example, are three, six, nine and 12), so you may be better off making manual adjustments if the increases are too steep or fast for you. One downside to this machine, however, is its weaker motor of 1.5 continuous horsepower.

Pros:

• Comfortable handrail design
• Oversized running deck
• Large emergency stop button
• Lower step-up height

Cons:

• One-year warranty for parts and labor only
• Speed and incline controls jump in high increments
• Weaker motor compared to other models

Best Treadmill for Heavy People for Streaming: NordicTrack Commercial x32i

NordicTrack

Key Features:

• Price: $4,499
• 32-inch smart HD touchscreen
• Max user capacity of 300 pounds
• Oversized tread belt
• Decline of negative six percent with incline of 40 percent

NordicTrack Commercial X32i is a commercial-grade treadmill from the fan-favorite NordicTrack line, which is one of the most popular fitness brands in the world. This high-end treadmill is our favorite for streaming, and comes fully-equipped with impressive high-tech features. For starters, NordicTrack Commercial X32i has a massive 32-inch smart HD touchscreen making it ideal for streaming your favorite workout classes or running courses. Since this treadmill is compatible with iFIT subscription, you can use it to stream live and on-demand trainer-led classes that go beyond just treadmill workouts to include yoga, kickboxing, pilates and HIIT classes.

While NordicTrack Commercial X32i isn’t equipped to stream third-party apps (like Netflix, Prime Video or Hulu), which you’ll have to watch on your own device, the treadmill offers other streaming capabilities that make it a truly impressive investment for your home gym. One standout feature that this machine includes is its Google Maps Workout Technology, which lets you walk or run anywhere in the world, as long as that location can be found on Google Maps (as long as you have an iFIT membership). Otherwise, you can take advantage of preset workout programs. This treadmill is a great option for heavier users because of its 300-pound weight capacity, larger running deck of 22-by-65 inches and powerful 4.25 horsepower motor.

Pros:

• Wide incline range
• Larger running deck of 22 inches by 65 inches
• Impressive 4.25 horsepower motor
• Decline of negative six percent with incline of 40 percent

Cons:

• Pricer than other options
• iFIT membership necessary for streaming
• Not compatible with third-party apps

What to Look for When Choosing a Treadmill as a eavy person

In addition to standard features like technology, accessory holders and screen size, heavier users should consider a number of factors to help determine which machine is best for their needs. Be sure to research these facts before buying a treadmill for home use (after all, you don’t want to be stuck with a bulky machine that’s next to impossible to pack up and return). You can find these specs on our best treadmill for heavy people guide, or on most product pages.

Price

Before you begin researching different treadmills, determine your budget first. Be sure to consider how much you’re able to spend on a treadmill itself, plus any additional fees like shipping, delivery or installation. Don’t forget to factor in any recurring expenses, such as subscriptions to treadmill apps or calorie counter apps. If you plan on buying new workout clothes or accessories to use with your treadmill, consider these costs as well. 

Maximum User Weight

All treadmills come with different maximum user weights. This can be as low as 250 (but rarely lower than that) or as high as 400 pounds or more. Depending on your weight, it’s important to find a treadmill that can support your size. If you’re within 20 pounds of a treadmill’s user weight capacity, you may want to purchase a treadmill at a higher capacity to err on the side of caution (for example, if you weigh 230 pounds and a treadmill’s max user weight is 250 pounds, buying a treadmill with a weight capacity of 300 pounds could give you more peace of mind). If you live with other people, be sure to buy a machine that supports the heaviest person in the household.

Running Surface

A roomy running surface can make a big difference in your workouts and comfort levels. Look for a wider and longer running surface (at least 20-by-60-inches or more) to help ensure you have enough space to walk or run. If you’re a very tall person, a longer running surface will also support longer running strides, which will help alleviate feeling cramped while on the machine. A treadmill with a cushioned running surface can also reduce impact on your joints and spine.

Build and Design

Treadmills are typically made out of two types of metal: steel or aluminum. Steel treadmills tend to be more heavy-duty, which usually supports a higher weight capacity. These steel treadmills also have better durability than their competitors, which can be helpful if you plan on using your treadmill on a regular basis. After all, when you’re investing hundreds or thousands of dollars into fitness equipment for your home gym, you want to be sure that it’s built to last. Aluminum treadmills, on the other hand, tend to be much lighter; many folding treadmills are made with aluminum for this reason. Be sure to consider these materials as you shop for a high-capacity treadmill, and look for a machine with long handlebars to better support your workout as well.

Horsepower

We often think of horsepower as how strong of a motor a treadmill has, and essentially how high of a speed it can tolerate without overheating. While this is true, horsepower also determines how much weight a treadmill can support. If you’re a heavier individual, be sure to seek out a machine with a higher horsepower for extra safety (a 2.5 HP motor is a good place to start).

Warranty

As with any machine, treadmills, like cars, can potentially break down. While a high-quality treadmill can have a lifespan of seven to 12 years with proper care and use, how hard you exercise and how often you do treadmill workouts may play a role in its longevity. If you’re making a big investment into your treadmill, consider looking for a product that offers lifetime warranty on frame and/or motor. A motor warranty can offer security in the event that your motor weakens or stops working, and a frame warranty can cover any frame issues.

How We Chose the Best Treadmills for Heavy People

We chose the best treadmills for heavy people based on a number of factors. We looked at maximum weight capacity, length and width of running surface, cushioning, sturdiness, horsepower, top speed and preset programs that may be helpful for weight loss. These factors combined helped us determine which treadmills best support heavier individuals.

What Does it Mean to be Heavy?

Heavy can be defined in several ways. While we naturally think of heavy as related to weight or clinical obesity, heavy people can also be very tall individuals who may require larger machines or running decks. Bodybuilders can also have heavier weights, especially competitive lifters. Whether you’re a heavy person due to weight, height or lifestyle, it’s important to find a machine that supports fitness for all body types - which will ultimately help you best achieve your goals.

Treadmills for Heavy People FAQs

How much weight do treadmills hold?

Every treadmill comes with a different weight capacity. Lighter treadmills made out of aluminum tend to have lower weight capacities of 250 to 300 pounds. Heavy-duty treadmills made out of steel, on the other hand, can support more weight, usually 300 to 400 pounds.

Do heavier people burn more calories on a treadmill?

Since people who are larger or have more muscle burn more calories, even at rest, heavier people will naturally burn more calories on a treadmill. This is because larger individuals use more energy to move their bodies or do physical activity, so you can expect a higher calorie burn if you’re a bigger or heavier user.

How fast should a heavy person exercise on a treadmill?

How fast a heavy person should exercise on a treadmill will ultimately depend on your fitness level and goals. If you’re new to treadmill workouts or at the beginning of your fitness journey, you may want to start with a more leisurely walk at a speed of two or three miles per hour. Then, as you increase your stamina and strength, you can try speed walks or light jogs at four miles per hour or higher. However, if you’re a larger individual and you prefer to run or do sprints, nothing should stop you from pursuing your goals - it’s all about your comfort level.

What happens if I weigh more than a treadmill’s weight capacity?

If you weigh more than a treadmill’s weight capacity, it’s important not to use or buy that treadmill. A treadmill has a weight capacity for a reason, and that’s to protect its motor from overheating. If you're using a treadmill with lesser weight limit than your weight, it could cause the machine to break down or have a shorter lifespan. The best option is to consider investing in a new treadmill, or finding a comparable treadmill with a higher weight capacity.

Final Thoughts

Whether your goals are weight loss, increasing your fitness level or you’re simply interested in the overall health benefits of cardio workouts, investing in a durable and high-quality treadmill that meets your unique needs and body type is important. Rather than digging through dozens of treadmills looking for models with higher weight capacities and roomier running surfaces, our best treadmill for heavy people guide has rounded up the best high weight capacity treadmills for you.

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