The Best Folding Treadmills for Small Spaces in 2022 - SI Showcase - Sports Illustrated

2022-10-01 18:55:42 By : Ms. Lorna Lee

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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 best folding treadmills that our team of experts have identified for 2022. Read on to learn all about our top picks.

It is no surprise that the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 claims the title for best overall folding treadmill as this powerhouse of a machine finds itself topping off many of these treadmill reviews year after year. It is powerful, easy-to-use and offers features and specs not typically seen on foldable treadmills. Powered by a 3.5 continuous horsepower motor (CHP), the 1750 supports speeds up to 12 mph as well as decline/incline capabilities that range from negative three percent to 15 percent. The decline capabilities really sets this bad boy apart from its contenders as it allows users to mimic outdoor running in a way that many others don’t.

The Commercial 1750 comes loaded with 50 onboard workout programs designed by elite trainers. Additionally, it features the iFIT fitness platform which allows you to truly utilize some of the more impressive specs for an immersive, motivating and diverse workout experience. Through iFIT you gain access to thousands of workouts that range in type, length and intensity. They are led by world class trainers from locations around the globe. The iFIT community is a motivating way to stay on track towards your fitness goals.

Notable specs include a 14-inch tilt and pivot HD touchscreen, premium audio speakers, AutoAdjust technology for trainer-led workouts, a cooling fan, Bluetooth headphone support, heart rate connectivity, Google Maps technology (via iFIT) and an integrated console tray. Included in your purchase of this treadmill is a free 30-day membership to iFIT. While membership is not required to use the 1750, its overall design and technology are geared towards the more immersive workout experience.

Very often folding treadmills are designed with a smaller running area in order to ensure a compact footprint. But, the 1750 does not sacrifice here and boasts a cushioned 22-inch by 60-inch running surface which accommodates longer strides. If you are training for a road race and prefer to run without the cushioning, you have the option to shut it off on the 1750. Where NordicTrack does fall short is the warranty. Given the price point and competitor warranties, a 10-year frame, 2-year parts and 1-year labor warranty is disappointing.

Purchase the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Treadmill is designed with serious runners in mind and best-suited for those who put a premium on quality components over technology on their fitness equipment What the Horizon 7.4 AT lacks in bells and whistles, it more than makes up for in performance. Conveniences such as QuickDial controls for one touch speed settings and incline control as well as its large, cushioned running surface of 22-inches by 60-inches, makes this treadmill a solid choice for new and experienced runners alike.

Equipped with a 3.5 horsepower motor, the 7.4 AT reaches speeds up to 12 mph, incline grades up to 15 percent and a maximum user weight capacity of 350-pounds. In addition, the 7.4 AT is equipped with the Johnson Digital Drive System featuring Rapid Sync Technology which, according to Horizon Fitness, prevents any lag between changes in incline or speed. Because of these quick transitions, the Horizon 7.4 AT is well-suited for interval training and comes loaded with an interval workout entitled Spring 8, a 20-minute high-intensity interval training workout. Horizon claims this workout will burn up to 27 percent body fat in just eight weeks however, we did not find any empirical research to back up this statement.

While the monitor on this treadmill is very basic (8.25-inches LCD screen), you can still stream workouts or entertainment through apps such as Peloton, STUDIO, Zwift, Spotify, Netflix, Hulu and YouTube and watch them on your smart device. Utilize the Bluetooth technology to connect to the integrated speakers and to track your heart rate with the included Bluetooth chest strap. This allows you to monitor your and analyze your workout metrics to keep you on track towards your fitness goals.

Although the 7.4 AT treadmill is built like a tank with a durable frame, it uses a one-step hydraulic folding system to free up floor space—an especially attractive feature to those with limited space. Additional conveniences include a fan, multi-position tablet holder, USB charging port, water bottle holder and an audio in/out jack. As an added bonus, this treadmill is one of the more affordable ones considering its impressive components and warranty.

Purchase the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

If you are on the hunt for a high-quality, budget-friendly foldable treadmill ideally suited for walking, we recommend taking a good look at the Sole F63. This affordable treadmill boasts some impressive specs that make it an attractive choice to avid walkers or joggers. Powered by a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor (CHP), the Sole F63 tops out 12 mph 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 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.

The F63 features cooling fans, speed settings and incline controls on the arm rests, 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 the Bluetooth technology, you can download and track your fitness data on the Sole app for free. 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, light weight, noteworthy components and transport wheels make it a solid choice for walkers looking to save space and money.

Purchase the Sole F63 Treadmill

For those living in small quarters, finding a treadmill that is compact is of 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 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.

Purchase the Echelon Stride Fitness Treadmill

When you are stuck at work all day in a somewhat sedentary job, an under desk, compact treadmill can be a great way to sneak in exercise. There is also some evidence that suggests exercising/walking while working may improve productivity. That is an all around win in our books. Even better is a treadmill that will help you achieve all of that and is budget-friendly. With that said, let us introduce you to the UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill.

Featuring a 16.9-inch wide running belt made with five layers for ultimate shock absorption, a small LED display and remote control and a 2.5 horsepower motor, the UREVO is a solid choice for anyone seeking a compact treadmill. While it is not engineered to support sustained or intense running, it can support a max speed of 7.6 mph when the arms on the frame are up. Simply fold them down to push this lightweight machine under your desk. In this position, you can walk with speeds up to 3.8 mph while continuing with your workday.

Users appreciate the space saving design and incredibly simple assembly. The UREVO has a non-assembly design which essentially means that you can unpack it and get moving in no time at all whether that is for home use or at the office. This treadmill is best suited for a very specific demographic and likely will not work for anyone who plans to train hard, fast or often. The smaller running surface will feel small to taller individuals as it is very compact. But, thanks to the compact size of this foldable treadmill, storing it out of the way is easy.

Purchase the UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill

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.

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.

Purchase the ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

Looking for a folding treadmill that won’t break the bank and won’t just break, period? Consider the XTERRA TR150 Treadmill. With an average 4.4 star rating on Amazon from over 16,000 reviews, the TR150 is widely praised for its price, compact nature, ease-of-use and easy assembly. The TR150 lacks bells and whistles but, for the minimalists out there who just want to get the job done, it is a viable option.

It features a 16-inch by 30-inch walking/tread area, a five inch LCD display, 12 present program options and three manual incline settings. The 2.25 horsepower motor enables a max speed of 10 mph but, if you are looking to train for your next marathon or hit a PR on a 5K, this is likely not the treadmill for you. There are some reports of the treadmill shaking at higher speeds which, given its overall specs, is not surprising.

The convenience factor is huge with the TR150. It uses an easy-pull knob for folding/unfolding and transport wheels for portability. Urban dwellers will likely appreciate its lightweight and easy assembly.

Purchase the XTERRA Fitness TR150 Treadmill

If you are new to walking or jogging and looking for a basic but quality treadmill, the GoPlus 3-in-1 Folding Treadmill is worth considering; it won’t break the bank, is easy-to-use, has preset programs and a compact design for easy storage. This treadmill is engineered to combine the advantages of treadmills, walking machines and working machines so that you can burn those calories and work simultaneously.

Featuring a 2.25 horsepower motor, five layer running belt, speeds up to 7.5 mph and an LCD monitor which displays time, speed, distance, steps and calories, this treadmill is a solid entry-level folding treadmill. Beginners will appreciate the easy-to-use 12 preset workout programs as well as the Bluetooth speaker which allows you to enjoy your favorite music. There is also a large and detachable table that can be used as a device holder—multitasking at its best.

The folding and compact design lends itself to easy storage. The GoPlus 3-in-1 treadmill is easily moved around as well as it weighs less than 75-pounds and sports front transport wheels. While this treadmill is well-suited for beginners, it is not designed for more experienced runners.

Purchase the GoPlus 3-in-1 Folding Treadmill

Training for a race in the mountains? Or a super hilly road race? Or just like the intensity of a good hill sprint workout? Take a look at the Bowflex Treadmill 10, a high-end folding treadmill packed with features and specs that will impress even the more experienced runners. In particular, it offers a range of incline and decline levels that allow you to mimic just about any topography.

Some of the most notable features include a 10-inch interactive console with an adjustable HD touchscreen, speeds ranging from zero to 12 mph and inclines ranging from negative five percent to 15 percent, offering plenty of variability in training and an ability to run at challenging incline and decline levels. Take advantage of the one-year membership to the JRNY fitness platform that comes free with your purchase. There you can expect an immersive training experience with coach voice-led workouts, as well as over 200 scenic routes with curated playlists.

Prefer to watch your favorite TV show or movie? Through the JRNY membership, you can access and stream entertainment apps including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video. Unfortunately, all these apps require individual memberships. And, after the one year trial, you will have to pay for a JRNY membership.

This tank of a machine does have a SoftDrop folding system but, impressively, can support a maximum user weight of 400-pounds and offers a large, cushioned running surface.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 of 2022.

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

Kristine Golden has been immersed in the world of fitness for nearly 20 years. This author is writing sponsored content paid for by Pillar4 and not affiliated with Sports Illustrated.