The Best Treadmills According to Reddit Users in 2024

Looking for the right treadmill for your home gym? We’ve analyzed hundreds of Reddit conversations to help you pick out the best treadmill for your needs.

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If you are currently shopping for the perfect treadmill to complete your home gym, the sheer number of available models can make it overwhelming to find the best one for your needs. That’s where Reddit comes in handy. Reddit is an online community where members share their personal opinions, have conversations, answer each other's questions and upvote or downvote comments. And Reddit users have a lot to say about which treadmills they like the best.

We’ve scoured through hundreds of the best treadmill options according to Reddit users’ first-hand experience and cross-referenced those with our expert testers’ knowledge to put together the ultimate treadmill shopping guide. Drum roll please...

The Best Treadmills According to Reddit in 2024:

• Most Reliable Treadmill:  Sole F85
• Best Folding Treadmill: Sole F63
• Best Treadmill for Interval Training: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT
• Best Treadmill for Marathon Training: Landice L8
• Best Budget Treadmill: Horizon T101
• Best Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial X22i
• Best Cushioned Treadmill: t22.9 REFLEX from Freemotion
• Best Treadmill Without Subscription: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT
• Best Quiet Treadmill: Technogym MyRun

How We Chose The Best Treadmills According to Reddit

To determine the best treadmills according to Reddit, we performed a meta-analysis of about 3,000 Reddit comments and more than 110 Reddit forums, known as subreddits. We analyzed the brands and types of treadmills that frequented feeds the most, as well as overall sentiment, i.e., was the commentary overwhelmingly positive or more critical of the treadmill’s flaws? The conversations we researched could span over several years, so we made sure to take into consideration model changes and improvements of the treadmills.

Throughout our research, we found that some of the most helpful advice was users sharing their experience from the time they bought their treadmills to several months of ownership. We combed through the comments to answer questions like: How was their shopping experience? What was their communication with customer service like? And most importantly, how has the treadmill held up over time? We then combined all of this information with our experts’ in-house experience to create this in-depth guide that will save you time and money, and hopefully help you choose the best treadmill for you.

Most Reliable Treadmill: Sole F85

SI Showcase + Sole

Specs

• Price: Regularly $2,399.99
• Dimensions: 82.5 inches L x 38 inches W x 66 inches H (or 44 inches L x 38 inches W x 71.5 inches H when folded)
• Tread Belt Size: 22 inches W x 60 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 375 pounds
• Speed: up to 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: 15 levels of incline and 6 levels of decline
• Motor: 4.0 HP
• Display: 15.6-inch touchscreen; Compatible with YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Video Disney+, MAX, Hulu, Spotify, ESPN, CNN, Audible, Kinomap and Peacock TV. Can also do screen mirroring and connect to Sole + App.
• Connectivity: Sole + App available on App Store and Google Play
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 3 years on deck and parts, 1 year on labor

Sole Fitness is a Salt Lake City-based company that first launched exercise machines for hotels, designing them for heavy use. The brand has since expanded into the home gym market and the Sole F85 is Sole’s most popular home treadmill (for good reasons). The Sole F85 earned our spot for the most reliable treadmill thanks to its unique roller size and high horsepower motor. The F85’s 2.75-inch rollers reduce force on the belt by working in tandem with its larger motor. While having just large rollers alone can seem enticing, it’s imperative for the rollers and motor to efficiently work together to ensure long lasting reliability. And, we love that the F85 features a sleek Z-shaped frame and a 4.0 HP motor, which is the strongest treadmill motor offered by the brand.

Related Post: A Review of the Complete Line of Sole Treadmills

Most treadmills on this list provide incline options, but not all offer decline. The Sole F85 gives you 15 levels of incline and 6 levels of decline with speeds of up to 12 miles per hour. If you find yourself running a lot on outdoor trails or participating in races with elevation changes, the decline option on the F85 really comes in handy when training indoors. A 22-inch by 60-inch running surface provides a good amount of space for your workout and is one of our largest belt sizes for the treadmills in this roundup.

If you think cardio is a necessary evil, the 15.6-inch WiFi-compatible touchscreen has everything from fitness options to seven preset apps including YouTube and Netflix to keep your brain occupied. We love that you can select from customizable workouts or connect to the Sole+ app for guided instruction from fitness experts.

Reddit commenters share that this machine can be slow to change speed, incline or decline and that there can be software issues. Because of this, those focused on interval training may want to look elsewhere, like the Horizon 7.0 we have listed below. While we did see some customers mention issues with the Sole customer service team, it didn’t seem to be an overwhelming problem.

Overall, though, most treadmill shoppers were pleased with their customer service experiences, with one user sharing that lifetime warranties are consistently honored by Sole. Our team has tested the Sole F85 treadmill and we agree with Redditors on its reliability, while also noting it is the best value for the money.

Pros:

• Offers both incline and decline
• 15.6-inch touchscreen with app compatibility
• Strong 4.0 HP Motor
• 375-pound weight capacity

Cons:

• Some reviews say it’s slow to change between incline and decline
• Some reviewers report software issues

Best Folding Treadmill: Sole F63

SI Showcase + Sole

Specs

• Price: Regularly $1,099.99
• Dimensions: 77 inches L x 35 inches W x 67 inches H (50 inches L x 35 inches W x 72 inches H when folded)
• Tread Belt Size: 20 inches W x 60 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
• Speed: up to 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: 15 levels of incline, no decline
• Motor: 3.0 HP
• Display: 6.5-inch backlit LCD screen displays speed, incline, time, distance traveled, calories, pulse and pace. It is not compatible with apps, but there is a phone/tablet holder.
• Connectivity: Sole + App available on App Store and Google Play
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 2 years on deck and parts, 1 year on labor

If you have a small space for cardio equipment, you may want to consider the Sole F63. This treadmill is geared toward runners who want to use their treadmill for roughly up to an hour a day. We chose this machine as the best folding treadmill because it folds down from 77 inches long to 50 inches, helping you save space when you aren’t using it. The storage process is effortless thanks to the Sole F63’s hydraulic system that assists you when folding it upwards and a kick bar release that effortlessly lets the treadmill down unassisted.

The F63 has a 3.0 HP motor and a slightly smaller belt tread size than the F85, at 20 inches by 60 inches. It features 15 levels of incline but no decline. Another major difference between this machine and the F85 is its display. The F63 has a basic 6.5-inch backlit LCD screen for monitoring progress and settings such as speed, incline, time, distance traveled, calories burned, pulse and pace. You can also select between seven pre-programmed and two user-defined programs. If you aren’t crazy about the built-in display, fear not, you can BYOS (Bring Your Own Screen) by using the installed smartphone/tablet holder. While the F63 does come with Bluetooth speakers, we found that they are difficult to hear when the treadmill is at faster speeds. For that reason, we recommend using your own external speakers or headphones.

Redditors say that a major draw is the Sole F63’s price—it’s significantly cheaper than the F80. If you would like to forgo all the bells and whistles in terms of display and design, the F63 can get the job done. Our team agrees with comments that the F63 can work comparably to the F80 for walking and jogging and is great for beginner runners who need to save space in their homes.

Of course, with a more budget-friendly machine, there are some drawbacks. The weight capacity is listed as 325 pounds, but some Reddit commenters mentioned issues with reliability for heavier runners consistently using this machine. We also noticed some smaller complaints like the fan not putting out enough wind. 

Pros:

• More affordable price point
• Easy-to-use interface
• Foldable
• Cushion Flex Whisper Deck designed to reduce joint impact

Cons:

• Basic console
• Some Reddit commenters say weight capacity is an issue
• No decline

Best Treadmill For Interval Training: Horizon 7.0 AT

SI Showcase + Horizon Fitness

Specs

• Price: $2,100 ($999 on sale)
• Dimensions: 76 inches x 35 inches x 66 inches
• Tread Belt Size: 20 inches W by 60 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
• Speed: Up to 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: up to 15 percent incline, no decline
• Motor: 3.0 HP
• Display: 7.25-inch high contrast LCD screen, 4 high contrast LED windows.
• Connectivity: Compatible with streaming apps like Spotify, Netflix, Hulu and YouTube. Also compatible with fitness apps like Peloton, Daily Burn, Nike and Zwift.
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 3 years on parts, 1 year on labor

The Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill features a 3.0 HP motor and can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour and offers up to 15 percent incline. One of the main benefits of this treadmill is how fast it processes incline and speed changes, making it great for interval training. According to Horizon Fitness, the machine can take you from walking to running faster than other machines in its class. Redditors back up this claim, mentioning how quickly it changes speed via its unique spin wheel control. One Redditor says that the wheel can take some getting used to and only responds to controlled spins for safety reasons.

The Horizon 7.0 features a 60-inch, three-zone cushioned deck to accommodate your stride with flex, support and space. It also comes with a 7.2-inch LCD display that can connect to running apps, including Zwift, to stream fitness classes. It’s designed with one-step hydraulic folding for convenient storage.

Is the Horizon 7.0 worth purchasing? According to Redditors, it comes at a great price and has a good speed and incline range, but may require some maintenance. If you’re looking to do a lot of interval training on your treadmill, we think the Horizon 7.0 is one of the best options out there—it’s not easy to find a treadmill that can change speeds as quickly as this one.

Pros:

• Fast speed and incline changes
• Hydraulic folding for easy storage
• Bluetooth and app connectivity
• No monthly app subscription needed

Cons:

• Small screen with no immersive programming

Best Treadmill for Marathon Training: Landice L8

SI Showcase + Landice

Specs

• Price: Regularly $6,119 ($5,299 on sale)
• Dimensions: 35 inches W x 83 inches L x 61.5 inches H
• Tread Belt Size: 22 inches W x 63 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
• Speed: Up to 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: up to 5 percent incline, no decline
• Motor: 4 HP
• Display: 15.6-inch touchscreen displays stats only.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth connection to apps like Zwift, Peloton or other streaming media on your own device. Data can be pushed to fitness apps like Strava and MapMyFitness.
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 3 years on deck and parts, 1 year on labor

If you are a marathon runner looking to train indoors you will need a heavy-duty treadmill with a strong motor, large tread belt surface and high user weight capacity to ensure long-lasting reliability. May we introduce the Landice 8. This treadmill is made for competitive runners including marathoners and triathletes. Given typical marathoners run up to about 136 miles per week during training, according to a review published in Sports Medicine—Open, you’ll want a treadmill that can hold up to some heavy mileage. The L8 is also beloved option for heavier runners or those over 6 feet tall. It has a 22-inch by 63-inch tread belt and can support a 500-pound weight capacity, making it both the largest belt size and highest weight capacity treadmill available in this roundup.

Related Post: The Best Treadmills for Heavy Runners

The L8 is durable enough for commercial treadmill environments and offers a smooth ride with 3.5-inch steel rollers. It features a VFX suspension system which provides a soft running surface designed to reduce impact. While it does have a large LCD screen, the screen is only used for tracking progress and five built-in programs. There is a tablet holder if you prefer entertainment or instructor-led programming (on your own device).

In a Reddit thread on treadmill recommendations for marathoners, Redditors mention loving their L8, but some people noted opting for the L7 instead, due purely to the lower price. We say if you are a larger or heavier person, splurge a little and opt for the L8. 

Since this is an expensive treadmill at $5,000, reviewers on Reddit can be critical of its flaws. One Redditor mentions that though the belt is 63 inches long, the usable length is closer to 51 inches since the console sticks out about 12 inches. We did notice some concerning comments about the software malfunctioning causing the treadmill to shut off mid-workout. However, that problem seemed few and far between. Most treadmill shoppers complained of some noisiness issues and need for belt replacements. While our testing team hasn’t gotten our hands on the L8 yet, we knew it was important to include this treadmill due to its overwhelming popularity in the marathon running crowd.

Pros

• 500-pound weight capacity
• Large tread belt
• VFX Suspension System is designed for impact reduction
• Lifetime warranty on parts

Cons

• Usable length is shorter than advertised at 51 inches, according to a Redditor
• Not foldable
• Expensive

Best Budget Treadmill: Horizon T101

SI Showcase + Horizon

Specs

• Price: Regularly $999 ($699 on sale)
• Dimensions: 71 inches L x 34 inches W x 57 inches H (46 inches L x 34 inches W x 61 inches H when folded)
• Tread Belt Size: 20 inches w x 55 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
• Speed: up to 10 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: up to 10 percent incline, no decline
• Motor: 2.5 HP
• Display: 3 Blue LED windows display stats and programs, device holder for phone
• Connectivity: Bluetooth speaker connects to phone
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 1 year on parts and labor

The Horizon T101 is a popular budget treadmill from Horizon Fitness. This treadmill is a good entry-level option, designed to be easy to set up and simple to store thanks to one-step hydraulic folding. The T101 features a 20-inch by 55-inch tread belt and can reach speeds of up to 10 miles per hour. Its motor is made to be quiet and the belt features a three-zone shock-absorbing cushion. The treadmill has a basic LED display console for selecting programs and tracking workout stats. It also offers a device holder with Bluetooth and a speaker for those who prefer to use their own entertainment or apps.

Reviewers on Reddit say this is a good treadmill if you are looking for an affordable model to get into treadmill workouts and our team of experts agree. However, if you’re looking to do a lot of running at home, you will want to invest in a sturdier option and we suggest the F63 for just a little more money. Redditors say this treadmill is meant for walking or light jogging, and that it can’t handle heavy running for years of use. In terms of maintenance, Redditors recommend lubricating the deck every three months or 150 miles and opting for a warranty boost that covers wearable parts.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Quiet
• Easy to assemble and store
• Lifetime warranty on frame and motor

Cons

• Some Redditors mention software issues
• Only reaches speeds of 10 miles per hour
• 300-pound weight capacity

Best Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial X22i

SI Showcase + NordicTrack

Specs

• Price: $2,999
• Dimensions: 70 inches L x 39 inches W x 72.5 inches H
• Tread Belt Size: 22 inch W x 60 inch L 
• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
• Speed: Up to 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: up to 40 percent incline, up to 6 percent decline
• Motor: 4.0 CHP (continuous horsepower) DurX Commercial Plus Motor
• Display: 22-inch smart HD touchscreen
• Connectivity: Compatible with iFit app (including SmartAdjust technology)
• Warranty: 10 years on frame, 2 years on parts, 1 year on labor

NordicTrack has been selling exercise machines since the 70s and continues to be a popular choice for home gym equipment. The NordicTrack X22i treadmill is a good option for those who want a challenge when it comes to elevation since the machine offers a 6 percent decline and a whopping 40 percent incline (yes, you read that right).

If you are an avid hiker, this incline treadmill will allow you to train for intense hikes, even during the colder months. Keep in mind that users who want to max out the incline need to factor in their ceiling height and their own height to ensure it will fit in their space. One selling point of the X22i is its high-quality 22-inch HD touchscreen and premium sound system. The machine is compatible with the iFit app which offers studio classes, monthly challenges, live events and immersive instructor-led workouts set in destinations around the world.

Related Post: Save Big on NordicTrack With These Coupons and Deals

Redditors love the X22i when it’s working smoothly, but mention that it can have issues after extended regular use. Runners recommend getting the longest warranty extension offered in case any repairs need to be made in the future. One of our testers loved this machine due to its massive incline capabilities but had some small critiques of its design. “The area for your water bottle can be hard to access. I also wasn’t a fan of the location to put my phone or the lack of a tablet holder.”

Pros

• Offers 6 percent decline and 40 percent incline
• 22-inch smart HD touchscreen
• Immersive programming through iFit
• 4.0 CHP Motor

Cons

• iFit requires a monthly subscription
• Low weight capacity of 300 pounds
• Some Redditors report software issues

Best Cushioned Treadmill: t22.9 REFLEX from Freemotion

SI Showcase + Freemotion

Specs

• Price: $11,999
• Dimensions: 87 inches L x 34 inches W x 66 inches H
• Tread Belt Size: 21.5 inches W x 60 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
• Speed: Up to 15 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: Up to 15 percent incline
• Motor: 5.0 CHP Commercial Drive Motor
• Display: 22-inch high-definition LCD touchscreen
• Connectivity: Comes with iFit app (compatible with auto-adjusting technology), TV tuner
• Warranty: 7 years on frame and motor, 2 years on parts, 2 years on console

If you are a fan of the shock-absorbing treadmills used in Orangetheory Fitness workouts, you may want to consider the t22.9 REFLEX from Freemotion. The Freemotion REFLEX was developed in partnership with Orangetheory and has its own proprietary cushioning deck. This cushioned treadmill claims to absorb shock with “a 52 percent greater reduction in tibial shock compared to flat surface running.”

Our tester Kayla has tried this treadmill and really enjoyed it. “The T22.9 was my first treadmill experience in years and I was naive to how wonderful it is in comparison to other treadmills. The spring-like belt provides ample cushion and absorbs the impact that traditional running can cause,” she says. “If I was a serious runner I would strongly consider investing in this treadmill. The technology and cushion truly stand out and it is unlike every other treadmill I have tried,” she adds.

Freemotion is a division of iFit Health and Fitness, the innovative company behind the popular iFit app. The brand is known for its fitness machines that are integrated with a large library of on-demand content as well as live interactive programming through iFit. The t22.9 treadmill features a large 22-inch HD touchscreen for users to experience this immersive iFit programming. One of the unique features of the iFit app is that it utilizes auto-adjusting technology to allow the instructor to remotely adjust your incline or speed. While this is an expensive treadmill at almost $12,000, Freemotion treadmills come with access to iFIT with no monthly fees to access the content. The treadmill can reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour while offering a comfortable run thanks to its proprietary cushioning deck designed to reduce impact.

Redditors agree that this treadmill is particularly comfortable and mention that it’s better for protecting your joints. A potential con mentioned is that the treadmill is extremely heavy and that it’s worth hiring professionals to move it.

Pros

• Comfortable deck
• Same machine used in Orangetheory
• 22-inch high definition LCD touchscreen
• Comes with iFit app

Cons

• Large and heavy
• Expensive

Best Treadmill Without Subscription: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT

SI Showcase + Horizon

Specs

• Price: Regularly $2,100
• Dimensions: 76 inches L x 35 inches W x 66 inches H
• Tread Belt Size: 20 inches W x 60 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
• Speed: Up to 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: Up to 15 percent incline, no decline
• Motor: 3.0 HP
• Display: 7.25-inch high contrast LCD screen, 4 high contrast LED windows
• Connectivity: Compatible with streaming apps like Spotify, Netflix, Hulu and YouTube. Also compatible with fitness apps like Peloton, Daily Burn, Nike Training Club and Zwift.
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 3 years on parts, 1 year on labor

While the Horizon 7.0 AT is one of our favorite treadmills for interval training, this machine also came up consistently on Reddit for best treadmill without a subscription. Horizon Fitness champions its treadmills as more affordable options without the chain of a monthly subscription fee.

We love that with this treadmill, you have options of several preset programs including 5K, fat burn, hill climb and manual mode. However, if you prefer to connect to your phone or tablet for a more high-tech experience, it comes with a convenient device holder and free app that can push data to other fitness apps like Zwift. The treadmill’s Bluetooth also allows you to connect to your own device to stream audio through your favorite Bluetooth earbuds.

While we included several treadmill options without a required subscription service, the one you choose comes down to your budget and preference. We think the price point of the Horizon 7.0 AT, combined with its simple display and design, makes it your best option if you’re looking for subscription-free use.

Pros

• Fast speed and incline changes
• Hydraulic folding for easy storage
• Bluetooth and app connectivity
• No monthly app subscription needed

Cons

• 325-pound weight capacity
• Small screen without immersive programming

Best Quiet Treadmill: Technogym MyRun

SI Showcase + Technogym

Specs

• Price: $4,050
• Dimensions: 69 inches L x 31 inches W x 50 inches H
• Tread Belt Size: 19.7 inches W x 56.3 inches L
• Weight Capacity: 308.6 pounds
• Speed: Up to 12.4 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: Up to 12 percent incline, no decline
• Motor: 3.0 HP
• Display: Basic LED display shows speed, incline, time and distance; Device holder to use apps or stream from your phone or tablet
• Connectivity: Technogym app available on the App Store or Google Play
• Warranty: 2-year warranty (You can upgrade for 2 more years for an additional $530.)

Many treadmills can be loud and bulky. The Technogym MyRun is neither: It’s quiet, sleek and it feels expensive. While the price is on the higher side, we think this quiet treadmill is totally worth it. Technogym is known for its award-winning designs—in 2023 it received the Wallpaper Smart Space Award for Fittest Fitness Kit. If you are looking for a treadmill with a minimalistic look, this may be a great fit.

The running surface is only 56 inches long and 19.7 inches wide, but it does feature an adaptive cushioned running surface to help provide comfort. The MyRun can reach inclines of 12 percent and speeds of 12.4 miles per hour. While this treadmill only features a basic LED display for providing stats like speed, incline, time and distance, the treadmill is designed to connect to the Technogym app on your iPad or Android tablet for a more immersive instructor-led experience. Your tablet can be mounted on the treadmill’s device holder for convenient viewing.

Though the treadmill is compact and doesn’t come with a fancy monitor, Redditors say it doesn’t feel cheap. They mention that this treadmill has solid construction and thoughtful design and that it runs very quietly.

Pros

• Quiet
• Compact
• Quick response to setting changes
• Compatible with Technogym app

Cons

• Doesn’t fold
• Short warranty
• Basic display

Benefits of Treadmills

Regular exercise is important for many aspects of your health, from helping reduce the risk of disease to managing weight and improving mental health. According to a meta-analysis of 15 international cohorts, taking more steps a day helps you live a longer, healthier life and avoid premature death. To experience optimal health benefits from exercising, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that adults get around 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. One great way to do this is by walking, jogging or running.

Treadmills are a great way to incorporate regular cardio exercise into your weekly workout routine. In addition to the important health benefits that a treadmill can provide, other benefits of home treadmills include:

• Save money if you choose to use a home gym instead of a monthly gym membership
• Save time traveling to a gym/fitness studio
• No wait times to use machines
• Use at whatever time is convenient for you
• Reduce the need for childcare while away from home
• Convenient way to walk or run no matter the weather

Types of Treadmills

Consider the type of treadmill and its characteristics when selecting the best treadmills for your needs. Treadmill options include:

• Manual treadmills: Powered by your stride rather than electricity
• Motorized treadmills: Powered by electricity to allow you to select various speeds, inclines, declines and programming while also providing the ability to track your stats and may come with immersive programming or apps
• Rehabilitation treadmills: Used for medical rehabilitation and physical therapy, often featuring larger walking surfaces and longer handrails
• Folding treadmills: Can fold for storage and to save space when not in use
• Under-desk treadmills: Allow you to exercise while you work at a standing desk
• Incline treadmills: Allow you to walk or run at an upward or downward angle for a challenge that simulates walking up or down a hill
• Hybrid treadmills: May provide the benefits of multiple machines in one—may combine an elliptical trainer, treadmill and stair stepper 

What Muscles Do Treadmills Target?

When you walk or run on a treadmill, you can target muscles all over your body, including your legs, core and arms. Some of the primary muscles targeted by treadmills when walking include the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, quadriceps, hamstrings and calves. These muscles work together to help provide support and allow you to increase your speed when walking or running, according to research published in the Journal of Biomechanics. When working out, you also activate muscles in your core, such as your transverse abdominis. Upper body muscles, such as the latissimus dorsi (commonly called your “lats”) are also engaged during treadmill workouts, especially as speed increases, according to research published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science.

Exercises To Do on a Treadmill

Treadmills are primarily used for walking, jogging and running. Treadmill exercises can vary in challenge based on the speed, incline and intervals of the exercises. Most treadmills will have preset programming options to help you get started with your treadmill workout. Treadmill apps like iFit, Peloton, Aaptiv and Zwift can provide the ability to access on-demand and live fitness classes offering guided treadmill exercises.

12-3-30 treadmill workout

One viral treadmill trend for losing weight is the 12-3-30 treadmill workout, which was originally shared by fitness influencer @laurengiraldo on YouTube in 2019. The workout is fairly straightforward—it involves walking on a 12 percent incline at a speed of 3 for 30 minutes. Benefits of walking on a treadmill at an incline include increasing your heart rate, helping to prep you for steep terrain (like you’d find on a hike) and activating your muscles.

12-3-30 Treadmill Workout:

• Set incline at 12
• Set speed at 3
• Walk for 30 minutes

Incline treadmill workout

“Using the incline on treadmills is a great way for individuals to get their heart rate into the desired zone for their training without having to run,” Wes Robertson, certified personal trainer and signature program operations manager at national athletic events brand Life Time says.

An incline treadmill workout is also a great option for those who are dealing with orthopedic issues, Roberston says. He created this 20-minute incline treadmill workout based on heart-rate training zones.

Warmup

How to do it: Set speed to a pace you could hold for over an hour (walk/jog)

• 2 minutes at 4 percent incline
• 2 minutes at 7 percent incline
• 2 minutes at 10 percent incline

Workout

How to do it: Use a speed that produces the suggested rate of perceived exertion (RPE) on a scale of 1–10

• 1 minute and 30 second at 6 percent incline (RPE 5–6)
• 1 minute at 8 percent incline (RPE 6–7)
• 1 minute at 10 percent incline (RPE 7–9)
• 1 minute at 8 percent (RPE 6–7)
• 1 minute at 2 percent (RPE 2–3)
• 1 minute at 5 percent (RPE 5–6)
• 1 minute at 7 percent (RPE 6–7)
• 1 minute at 9 percent (RPE 7–8)
• 1 minute at 11 percent (RPE 8–9)
• 1 minute at 6 percent (RPE 5–6)

Cooldown

How to do it: Set speed to a pace you could hold for over an hour (walk/jog)

• 2 minutes at 4 percent
• 1 minute at 1 percent
• Finish with dynamic stretching

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) treadmill workout

If you are looking for a workout that is quicker in duration, but efficient at burning calories, Robertson suggests a HIIT treadmill workout.

“Working at higher heart rate zones burns more calories per minute. This allows participants to burn more calories over a shorter duration,” says Robertson. Working in higher heart rate zones has been shown to increase VO2 max (maximal oxygen consumption), which is a key indicator of heart health. Robertson created this 20-minute HIIT treadmill workout based on heart-rate training zones.

Warmup

How to do it: Use a speed that produces the suggested RPE

• 2 minutes at RPE 3–4
• 2 minutes at RPE 5–6
• 2 minutes at RPE 6–7

Workout

How to do it: Use a speed that produces the suggested RPE

• 60-second run at RPE 7, followed by a 45-second recovery walk
• 45-second run at RPE 8, followed by a 45-second recovery walk
• 30-second run at RPE 9, followed by a 45-second recovery walk
• 15-second run at RPE 10, followed by a 60-second recovery walk (repeat four times)

Cooldown

How to do it: Set speed to a pace you could hold for over an hour (walk/jog)

• 2 minutes at RPE 3–4
• Finish with dynamic stretching

Running treadmill workouts

“Running workouts on treadmills shouldn’t be too different from your regular surface runs. However, there are some adjustments I like to make with my athletes that take advantage of the benefits of what most treadmills can do,” says Frankie Ruiz, chief running officer at Life Time.

Ruiz shares three workouts to try on your home treadmill. Before you begin the workout, start with an easy seven-minute jog followed by six to eight dynamic movements (high knees, lunges, leg swings, etc.) off the treadmill on the ground.

Long run with striders (50 Minutes)

How to do it: Within 50 minutes of steady moderate-paced running, do eight striders for 20 seconds each (Striders are pick-ups of speed faster than your race pace on an effort scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the fastest. The striders are to be done at an 8 or 9 RPE). If your fitness level isn’t up to running 50 minutes, you can modify the length of this workout for your needs.

• The pick-ups should be distributed throughout the run approximately every six to seven minutes. Keep in mind that you will need to gradually increase the speed on the treadmill. (Do not count the time it takes you to get to your strider effort pace.)
• After each strider, there should be a period of one to two minutes of recovery at a lower speed setting.
• Then gradually work your way back to your steady pace.
• For this entire workout, set the incline at 1–2 percent, depending on your fitness level. You can also consider starting at 2 percent and then dropping to 1 percent as fatigue builds.

Hill rep workout ( 16 x 200 meters)

How to do it: After you’ve warmed up, set the treadmill to 5 percent. For each of the 16 efforts, bring up your pace to a speed close to your sprinting speed, ensuring that it’s a pace you can you can hold for multiple 200-meter sprints.

• Using a scale of 1 to 10, each push will be is at about an 8 or 9 RPE.
• Once you cover 200 meters, gradually decrease the pace to a light jogging pace for a two-minute jog.
• Every four repetitions, jog for two minutes and walk for two minutes.
• Repeat the above 16 times, followed by a 15-minute easy jog.

Mile rep workout (3 x 1-mile repetitions)

How to do it: After you’ve warmed up, set the treadmill to 2 percent and begin your first mile at your 5K race pace. You can also modify this workout and forego the incline. After every mile effort, bring the incline down to 1 percent and jog or walk at an easy pace for a half mile.

• Before you second mile, set the treadmill’s incline to 3 percent and once again run at your 5K race pace.
• Begin the last mile rep at an incline of 4 percent, holding your 5K race pace.
• End the workout with another half mile jogging or walking easy at 1 percent incline.

What to Consider When Choosing The Best Treadmill For You

The best treadmill for your needs will be determined by several factors. These include:

Price

Do you need a budget treadmill or do you have the funds to splurge on a premium model? The treadmills on this list range from $999 to $11,999. Keep in mind that you will get what you pay for, and more premium models tend to be more durable and longer-lasting. That said, if you’re only planning on using your treadmill for walking, or will only be on it a couple of times a week, you’re likely to be fine opting for a cheaper product.

Dimensions

Look for a treadmill with a total footprint that is a good fit for both your own size and the size of your home gym space. In addition to considering how the size of the treadmill will fit into the room, you should consider if the treadmill’s dimensions will work with your own height, your ceiling height and your stride to determine whether the treadmill will be the right fit for you. Make sure the dimensions of your treadmill’s base can fit through your doorways and tight corners. Some treadmills fold to help you save space when storing them or not in use.

Tread belt size

Consider how much room you want to use for your stride. Do you need a longer or wider belt to accommodate your stride or are you comfortable with a shorter, compact tread belt? Most treadmill belts on this list are at least 20 inches wide, but the sizes range from 19.7 inches to 22 inches in width. When it comes to length, the most common treadmill length on this list is 60 inches, but the tread belts range in size from 56.3 inches to 63 inches long.

Weight capacity

Be sure to look for a treadmill that can accommodate your weight. Consult with the manufacturer and check the treadmill’s specs to determine if the machine is a good fit for your weight and your preferred activity. The treadmills on this list range in weight capacities from 300 pounds to 500 pounds.

Speed

Some treadmills are better fit for walking and light jogging, while other treadmills are designed to reach speeds that accommodate all-out running. The treadmill speeds on this list of the best treadmills according to Reddit range from the ability to reach 10 to 15 miles per hour.

Incline/decline

Incline and decline can contribute to the challenge of your treadmill workout by simulating the experience of walking up or down a hill. While all the treadmills on this list offer incline, not all offer decline. The treadmills on this list range in incline offerings from 5 percent to 40 percent. The NordicTrack Commercial X22i has the greatest range of incline and decline on this treadmill list, offering up to 6 percent decline and up to 40 percent incline.

Motor

The motor power is measured in HP or CHP. The higher the HP or CHP, the stronger and more powerful the motor. Motors with an HP or CHP under 3.0 are usually better suited for walking. 3.0 HP motors may be adequate for walking, jogging or running. Motors with over 4.0 HP/CHP will be best for longer and higher-speed running. The treadmill motors on this list range from 2.5 HP to 5.0 CHP.

Power Supply

Make sure your outlet and power supply can accommodate the treadmill’s requirements. Ruiz says that typically, consumer treadmills require a 120-volt outlet on a dedicated circuit (A 120-volt outlet is standard in most homes). Problems occur when the user has extension cords to that outlet. It is not recommended to use an extension cord, but if you must, Ruiz advises to make sure that it is at least 14 gauge. If you buy a commercial-grade treadmill, you may need a 220-volt dedicated outlet. It’s important to check the treadmill manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that your home is able to meet the power requirements of the treadmill.

Display

Treadmill displays range from small, basic LED screens that show you standard statistics such as calories burned, speed and distance to large high-resolution touch screens that offer immersive programming and entertainment experiences. Some treadmills offer the ability to connect to your own smartphone or tablet to use for the display.

Noise

Treadmills can be noisy due to their mechanics, but some treadmills are louder than others. If you prefer a quieter treadmill, look for a treadmill with technology intended to reduce its noise. For instance, the Sole F85 has a Cushion Flex Whisper Deck designed to keep it quieter. It’s also a good idea to check reviews for comments about noise. Redditors recommend Technogym MyRun as a quiet treadmill option. Regular maintenance will help keep your treadmill functioning optimally and may help reduce noise. Placing home gym flooring, such as a gym mat, under your machine may also help.

Warranty

With regular use, treadmills may start to experience some performance issues. The better the warranty, the more money you will save on repairs or replacements. While some treadmills on this list offer lifetime warranties on the frame and motor, other treadmills offer warranties as short as two years.

The Best Treadmills According to Reddit FAQs

How do you lubricate a treadmill?

Keeping your treadmill lubricated is an important maintenance step for many treadmills. Ruiz says that you may need to lubricate your treadmill every three to four months. He recommends loosening your belt and running your hand under the belt to check if it is dry. If it is dry, it may be time to add additional lubricant. You can usually do this by loosening your belt with an Allen wrench tool. Ruiz recommends looking in your treadmill’s manual to find the location of the bolt (most companies will have these online). The manual will also specify which type of lubricant to use. Usually, it is a silicone-based spray. After spraying your belt, Ruiz says you should run the treadmill without you on it for a couple of minutes at a low speed.

What’s one sign that your treadmill belt might need to be lubricated?

If you hear any out-of-the-ordinary noises, such as squealing or rubbing sounds, stop your treadmill immediately and check to see if it needs lubrication. Ruiz also suggests using a blower or a compressed can of air to spray the surface under the belt to keep it as clean as possible.

How do you lose weight on a treadmill?

Getting cardio exercise on a treadmill, when combined with a healthy diet, can help you burn calories and lose weight. Incorporating a HIIT routine into your treadmill workout may be one technique to help you lose weight, according to a study published in Obesity Review. HIIT workouts combine high- and low-intensity intervals to help you burn calories.

Which is better, a treadmill or an elliptical?

Whether a treadmill or elliptical is a better choice for you will come down to personal preferences, goals and needs. If you need a low-impact workout, an elliptical may be a better option for you. If you want more versatility in your workout, you may prefer a treadmill.

How much money is a good treadmill?

Good budget-friendly treadmill models on this list can be purchased for $999 or lower on sale. While these models may not offer all the bells and whistles, commenters on Reddit report being satisfied with cheaper models when they fit their needs. If you have a higher budget, you can purchase a treadmill with a higher HP, and more incline and speed options for around $2,000 to $4,000. Higher-end treadmill models can cost over $10,000.

Which treadmills are the most reliable?

The treadmill brands on this list are all considered reliable brands (though any treadmill may have its own issues). These brands include Sole, Horizon, Landice, NordicTrack, Freemotion and Technogym. It’s important to care for your treadmill according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal performance and maintenance. Look for a good comprehensive warranty to ensure a longer lifespan for your treadmill.

Is walking on a treadmill as good as walking outside?

From a physical standpoint, getting steps in can be beneficial to your health no matter where you walk. However, walking on a treadmill can offer more control over your walking conditions and amount of challenge. Exposure to natural environments that you would get from walking outside may be associated with a range of important benefits, from physical to psychological, according to research published in Landscape and Urban Planning. Walking outside and walking on a treadmill each have their pros and cons, but either can be beneficial for your health, especially when done consistently.

The Takeaway: Which is The Best Treadmill According to Reddit?

Finding the right treadmill will vary based on your personal needs and goals. This is reflected in the varying opinions and conversations of Reddit users in subreddit treadmill threads. Reddit users frequently debate which treadmill and treadmill brand is the best for different circumstances. These Reddit users like a wide range of treadmills based on budgets, weight capacity/height needs, technology, preferred speeds, incline options, lived experience and customer service satisfaction. The brands and models most frequently mentioned by Reddit commenters as the best include the Sole, Horizon, Landice, NordicTrack, Freemotion and Technogym models on this list.