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Best treadmills for home, as recommended by fitness experts

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Isabel Peña Alfaro
Updated June 24, 2024

As a certified personal trainer, I have seen clients of all ages gain the confidence to walk, jog, run and even sprint on treadmills to improve their health and fitness. While at first it can be intimidating, a treadmill can provide a great cardiovascular workout for people of varying fitness levels and can also be a useful tool to warm up or cool down. An added benefit is that you can use a treadmill no matter the weather outside.

In this article, I will review what to consider when buying a treadmill for your home, then dive into the 10 best treadmills as recommended by the experts I consulted.

What to consider when buying home treadmills

When comparing treadmills, first consider what you want their main use to be. Will you mainly be going at a slow or fast speed? Are you looking for a steep incline to train for hikes, or just a casual walk? Consider the intended use, the features you want, the space you have available, the quality of the machine and your budget. Let’s review each of these considerations.

Intended use

How do you intend to use your treadmill? What is your ultimate goal? Users who run frequently will need a more durable treadmill than those who walk. For those who plan to run, aim for a treadmill that has 2.5-3.0 Continuous HorsePower (CHP), says Erin Beck, certified personal trainer and director of training and experience for STRIDE Fitness. She also recommends looking at the treadmill’s maximum weight capacity, as the more weight it stands, the more power it typically has. “Subtract about 50 pounds from that max user weight rating for a more realistic figure,” she adds.

On that same note, if you’re a distance runner, look for a commercial-grade treadmill that can withstand use, says John Peel, iFIT master trainer and certified personal trainer. On the other hand, if you’re a beginner, look for a treadmill that’s built for comfort and offers entertainment to distract you, he says. “Beginners tend to lose focus, so motivation through a virtual trainer can be helpful with guidance and accountability.”

Features

After determining how you will use your treadmill, consider which features are important to you.

  • Are you a sprinter who needs a fast belt speed?
  • Do you want incline and decline options?
  • Do you want high-tech options, such as built-in workout programs and wearable device connectivity?
  • Do you have knee pain and require a cushioned belt?
  • Will you run for long distances?

Questions like these will help you find the right treadmill.

“The most important features to consider are the max speed, incline adjustments, heart rate monitoring, interval programs and virtual classes, if that's your jam,” says Nick Kumar, chief exercise officer at Desi Grit.

“Belt size and length, as well as shock absorption, are features to also look for as signs of a good treadmill,” adds Peel.

When looking for the perfect treadmill, also focus on the platform, otherwise known as the deck. “This is what separates high-quality brands from others on the market,” says Peel. He says that machine aesthetics are nice to have, but it’s more important to enjoy running, hiking or walking on it. “You want a slight cushion to eliminate the impact and make your time on the equipment as forgiving as possible. This will save your knees and back in the long run,” he adds.

Space

Traditional treadmills require a large footprint. But, there are great foldable options on the market if you have a smaller space. “Most treadmills need at least 8 feet of clearance space behind the treadmill and at least 2 feet on the side. If you’re tight on space, consider folding treadmills, which fold up when not in use, or those with a smaller footprint,” says Peel.

Price

Treadmills range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, so setting a budget is key. It’s no secret that the treadmills with the most features are usually more expensive. “For price tags, you've got options,” says Beck. “Pro-tip, keep an eye out for refurbished high-quality models. They're often a steal.”

Quality

Buying a treadmill is an investment. “When you're checking out the treadmill in person, keep two things in mind,” says Beck. “First, give it a good shake. See if it feels sturdy or wobbly. That's a big clue about its quality. And then, check to make sure it has at least 1.5 Continuous HorsePower.” Lastly, our experts recommend checking the warranty details, as well as price, delivery and assembly.

Our top picks for the best treadmills

Best budget treadmill: Proform Carbon TL

Best budget
ProForm Carbon TL; Treadmill for Walking and Running with 5” Display, Built-in Tablet Holder and SpaceSaver Design

ProForm Carbon TL; Treadmill for Walking and Running with 5” Display, Built-in Tablet Holder and SpaceSaver Design

“The Proform Carbon TL offers a competitive price point compared to other treadmills with similar features and capabilities. It provides excellent value for those looking for a quality treadmill without breaking the bank,” says Josh Petrawski, CEO at Sports and Fitness Exchange. The treadmill costs less than $600 and provides a warranty of 10 years for the frame and one year on the parts and labor. It also folds for easy storage and has the option to enroll in iFit workout programs for a monthly fee.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 68 inches long x 32 inches wide x 57 inches high.
  • Running surface: 20 inches wide x 60 inches long.
  • Weight: 196 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 300 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 10 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 10%.
  • Screen/display size and type: 7-inch high-contrast, multi-color display with Bluetooth capabilities.
  • Foldable: Yes.
  • Motor: 3.0 CHP.
  • Warranty: 10-year frame warranty; one-year parts and labor warranty.
  • Price on publish: $599.

What we like:

  • Folds for easy storage.
  • Stores workout stats to track progress and influence built-in workout programs.
  • Has thousands of interactive classes and “outdoor” workouts.

What we don’t like:

  • Must subscribe for iFIT membership to unlock all features.
  • Its heavy weight requires two people for initial movement and assembly.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

For under $600, this treadmill folds easily, stores workout stats and provides excellent value for the price.

Get it here: Proform Carbon TL


Best under-desk treadmill: Egofit Walker Pro Under-Desk Walking Pad

Best under desk treadmill
Egofit Walker Pro M1 Small & Compact Electric Walking Treadmill for Home to Fit Under Desk Perfectly and Office with APP & Remote Control

Egofit Walker Pro M1 Small & Compact Electric Walking Treadmill for Home to Fit Under Desk Perfectly and Office with APP & Remote Control

If you want to move while you work, you’ll want a treadmill that can fit under your desk and not make a lot of noise, in case you’re on phone calls or need to focus. “I recommend the Egofit Walker Pro Under-Desk Walking Pad because it’s compact, very quiet and is priced well,” says Kumar.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 38.39 inches long x 21.85 inches wide x 6.89 inches high.
  • Running surface: 35 inches long x 18 inches wide.
  • Weight: 48.5 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 220 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 3.1 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 5%.
  • Screen/display size and type: Small LCD display with calories, time, steps, distance and speed.
  • Foldable: No.
  • Motor: 2.0 CPH.
  • Warranty: One-year warranty.
  • Price on publish: $399.

What we like:

  • Compact size is perfect for home or office use.
  • Controllable via a remote and an app.
  • No assembly required.

What we don’t like:

  • Slow walking speed only.
  • Some customers complain of lower quality construction.
  • Difficult to reach the customer service team, according to reviews.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

For slow walking while you work at your desk, this treadmill is compact and inexpensive.

Get it here: Egofit Walker Pro Under-Desk Walking Pad


Best treadmill for knee pain: NordicTrack X32i

Best for knee pain
NordicTrack Commercial X32i Exercise Equipment

NordicTrack Commercial X32i Exercise Equipment

Pay close attention to the deck, meaning the hard walking surface underneath the belt of a treadmill, if you have knee pain or shin splints. “I’ve had back and knee surgery,” Peel says, so he pays close attention to this aspect. He recommends avoiding treadmills that feel as though you’re running on pavement. “Hands down, my favorite treadmills to help with this pain are the X32i or the X22i by NordicTrack. I have two in my home gym because my wife and I used to battle over who gets to use it,” he says.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 76.5 inches long x 40 inches wide x 73 inches high.
  • Running surface: 22 inches wide x 65 inches long.
  • Weight: 462 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 400 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 12 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 40% incline and -6% decline.
  • Screen/display size and type: 32-inch smart HD touchscreen with Bluetooth compatibility.
  • Foldable: No.
  • Motor: 4.25 CHP.
  • Warranty: 10-year frame warranty; two-year parts warranty; one-year labor warranty.
  • Price on publish: $4,499.

What we like:

  • Very high tech — will automatically adjust incline and speed during workouts and tailor workouts to the user.
  • With iFit subscription, you get access to thousands of trainer and pro-athlete-led workouts, monthly challenges and milestones, Google Maps and more.
  • Award-winning incline capabilities.
  • More size-inclusive than other options.

What we don’t like:

  • iFIT subscription is required to unlock all features.
  • Can’t use streaming services to watch TV or movies, only the classes.
  • Expensive and has a large footprint.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

The NordicTrack X32i treadmill provides a supportive but soft walking surface underneath the belt, helping ease knee pain and shin splints.

Get it here: NordicTrack X32i


Best treadmill for home: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

Best for home
NordicTrack NEW Commercial 2450 Exercise Equipment

NordicTrack NEW Commercial 2450 Exercise Equipment

For an all-around home treadmill, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 takes the win. “NordicTrack is perfect for at-home training,” says Peel, who believes that the value received from NordicTrack is worth its weight in gold. This treadmill caters to users of all levels. It also provides thousands of strength, yoga, stretching and mindfulness workouts, which Peel says “can be just as important as a good run.”

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 78.5 inches long x 35.6 inches wide x 65 inches high.
  • Running surface: 20 inches wide x 60 inches long.
  • Weight: 353 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 400 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 12 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 12% incline to -3% decline.
  • Screen/display size and type: 22-inch Smart HD touchscreen. Screen rotates so the user can stream non-treadmill workouts as well.
  • Foldable: Yes.
  • Motor: 3.6 CHP.
  • Warranty: 10-year frame warranty; two-year parts warranty; one-year labor warranty.
  • Price on publish: $2,999.

What we like:

  • ActivePulse technology allows the treadmill to automatically adjust speed and incline to maintain optimal heart rate, if using the SmartBeat heart rate monitor.
  • Cushioned surface reduces impact on joints.
  • Foldable for easy storage.

What we don’t like:

  • Requires iFIT subscription for full features.
  • Very heavy and hard to move.
  • Difficult assembly.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 provides iFit workouts, has a cushioned surface to minimize impact on joints and is a great all-around treadmill.

Get it here: NordicTrack Commercial 2450


Best quiet treadmill: NordicTrack x22i

Best quiet treadmill
NordicTrack x22i

NordicTrack x22i

Kumar says the NordicTrack x22i is quiet because it has a shock-absorbent deck with extensive reflex cushioning that reduces the overall noise output. This treadmill has a 4.0 CHP motor, a 40% incline and a -6% decline.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 70 inches long x 39 inches wide x 72.5 inches high.
  • Running surface: 60 inches long x 22 inches wide.
  • Weight: 417 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 400 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 12 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 40% incline to -6% decline.
  • Screen/display size and type: 22-inch smart HD touchscreen that rotates and tilts.
  • Foldable: No.
  • Motor: 4.0 CHP.
  • Warranty: 10-year frame warranty; two-year parts warranty; one-year labor warranty.
  • Price on publish: $2,999.

What we like:

  • This treadmill is quiet to use and well-built.
  • Very high-tech with lots of immersive options including trainer-led workouts.
  • Great option for users who have a higher budget and like extra features.

What we don’t like:

  • Requires iFIT subscription for full features.
  • Expensive.
  • Large and heavy.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

Our experts recommend the well-built and high-tech NordicTrack x22i for quiet workouts.

Get it here: NordicTrack x22i


Best treadmill for small spaces: WalkingPad R2

Best for small spaces
WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run 2IN1 Foldable Treadmill

WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run 2IN1 Foldable Treadmill

“The WalkingPad R2 is a great choice for small spaces like an apartment because it folds in half for storage, can be used for running with a max speed of 7.5 mph and has various safety features,” says Kumar. This treadmill is 39.4 inches long, 28.3 inches wide and 40.6 inches tall and only 6.3 inches tall when folded, providing a compact machine for storing. The brand also sells a standing desk designed to go along with the WalkingPad R2 for those who want to work and walk.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 39.4 inches long x 28.3 inches wide x 40.6 inches tall (39.4 inches long x 28.3 inches wide x 6.3 inches tall when folded).
  • Running surface: 47.2 inches long x 17.3 inches wide.
  • Weight: 79.36 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 240 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: Walking mode goes from 0.5 to 3.7 mph and running mode goes from 0.5 to 7.45 mph.
  • Maximum incline: N/A.
  • Screen/display size and type: Digital display with time, speed, distance, calories and steps.
  • Foldable: Yes.
  • Motor: Brushless motor with rated power of 918 watts.
  • Warranty: One year.
  • Price on publish: $899.

What we like:

  • Foldable for easy storage with a smaller footprint.
  • Great for busy users who want to exercise while they work.
  • Has an included handlebar and tether for increased safety during use.

What we don’t like:

  • Lack of durability.
  • Fewer speed options — only moves by 0.5 mph at a time — and no incline.
  • The associated app does not work well.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

Ideal for small spaces, the WalkingPad R2 folds in half and becomes more compact for storage.

Get it here: WalkingPad R2


Best premium treadmill: Technogym Run Personal

Best premium
Technogym Run Personal

Technogym Run Personal

“The Technogym Run Personal is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a high-definition touchscreen display and integrated entertainment options. This allows users to enjoy immersive workouts while staying connected and entertained,” says Petrawski. He adds that users can track their progress with advanced performance monitoring and receive real-time feedback to optimize their training sessions.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 79 inches long x 31 inches wide x 58 inches high.
  • Running surface: 57 inches long x 20 inches wide.
  • Weight: 370 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 352 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 15.5 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 15%.
  • Screen/display size and type: 21.5-inch screen.
  • Foldable: No.
  • Motor: 6.0 CHP.
  • Warranty: Two years.
  • Price on publish: $18,350.

What we like:

  • This includes Technogym Plus, which offers video classes in cycling, yoga, boxing, HIIT, strength, meditation and more.
  • High enough speed capabilities for elite athletes.
  • High-quality construction.
  • Low-maintenance and ergonomic design.

What we don’t like:

  • No decline and less incline than some less expensive options.
  • Very expensive.
  • Shorter warranty period than other brands offer.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

Albeit expensive, this state-of-the-art ergonomic treadmill has advanced performance monitoring so you can receive real-time feedback to optimize your training sessions.

Get it here: Technogym Run Personal


Best treadmill for heavier runners: Echelon Stride-8S

Best for heavier runners
Echelon Stride-8S

Echelon Stride-8S

With a cushioned belt, heavy-weight capacity and on-demand workouts, the Echelon Stride-8S is a good match for larger-bodied runners. This treadmill's weight capacity is 300 pounds. Its maximum speed is 12 mph and it has 12 levels of incline. Kumar recommends this treadmill because it is durable for higher-weight runners. However, he warns that customers don't like this brand’s customer service.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 5.6 feet long x 2.8 feet wide x 5.3 feet high.
  • Running surface: 60 inches long x 20 inches wide.
  • Weight: 315 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 300 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 12 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 12 levels.
  • Screen/display size and type: 22-inch class HD touchscreen.
  • Foldable: Yes, but requires the removal of some screws.
  • Motor: 3.75 CHP.
  • Warranty: One-year warranty.
  • Price on publish: $2,299.99.

What we like:

  • Cushioned belt.
  • Uses resistance dials instead of buttons for smooth transitions.
  • Offers daily live and on-demand classes.

What we don’t like:

  • Requires Echelon Premier Membership to unlock all features; streaming only works with Echelon fitness app.
  • Expensive for the features it offers.
  • Short warranty period.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

Ideal for runners up to 300 pounds, the Echelon Stride-8S is durable and has a cushioned belt.

Get it here: Echelon Stride-8S


Best treadmill for durability: BowFlex Treadmill 10

Best for durability
BowFlex Treadmill 10

BowFlex Treadmill 10

The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is a well-built treadmill with a generous running surface and an incline/decline range of 15% to -5%. Note that it requires a membership to access the streaming workout classes. It’s also foldable and saves your stats so you can track your progress.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 85 inches long x 39.6 inches wide x 65.3 inches high.
  • Running surface: 60 inches long x 22 inches wide.
  • Weight: 323 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 400 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 12 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 15% incline to -5% decline.
  • Screen/display size and type: LCD screen that shows time, speed, distance, heart rate, RPM.
  • Foldable: Yes.
  • Motor: 2.5 CHP.
  • Warranty: Five-year warranty for parts; two-year warranty for labor.
  • Price on publish: $1,999.

What we like:

  • Comes with a two-month JRNY membership so users can access thousands of online workouts and can use streaming services.
  • Saves stats so user can track progress.
  • Good features for the price.

What we don’t like:

  • Does not include custom workouts like other machines.
  • Requires WiFi.
  • Requires subscription to unlock full features after free trial ends.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

Though it requires an ongoing paid subscription to unlock all features, the BowFlex Treadmill 10 is durable and has a five-year warranty for parts and a two-year warranty for labor.

Get it here: BowFlex Treadmill 10


Best treadmill for tall runners: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill

Best for tall runners
New Model! 7.0AT Studio Treadmill by Horizon. Powerful Motor, Folding Treadmill.

New Model! 7.0AT Studio Treadmill by Horizon. Powerful Motor, Folding Treadmill.

The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a well-built, budget-friendly option for tall runners. It has a spacious 22-inch x 60-inch running deck and a 3.0 CHP motor. It can sync with popular fitness apps — e.g. Peloton and Apple Fitness+ — through its device holders and Bluetooth connectivity. The treadmill is foldable for storage and comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. While it lacks a large touchscreen, it has simple dial controls to adjust speed and incline during workouts.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 76 inches long x 35 inches wide x 66 inches high.
  • Running surface: 60 inches long x 20 inches wide.
  • Weight: 277 pounds.
  • Weight capacity: 325 pounds.
  • Maximum speed: 12 mph.
  • Maximum incline: 15%.
  • Screen/display size and type: 7.25-inch LCD screen.
  • Foldable: Yes.
  • Motor: 3.0 CHP.
  • Warranty: Lifetime warranty for frame and motor; three-year warranty for parts; one-year warranty for labor.
  • Price on publish: $999.

What we like:

  • Treadmill data can sync with fitness apps like Peloton and Apple Health.
  • Bluetooth heart rate monitor is included.
  • Included streaming classes and scenic runs.

What we don’t like:

  • Customer reviews indicate slow delivery.
  • Tough to reach customer service.
  • Lack of durability.

The AP Buyline takeaway:

This treadmill's spacious 22-inch x 60-inch running deck is perfect for tall runners.

Get it here: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill


How we selected the best treadmills

I selected these treadmills by listening to the advice of the fitness experts I consulted with, conducting thorough research and ensuring that every one of our picks has positive customer reviews, particularly in terms of features and quality.

Types of treadmills

There are manual, motorized, folding, fixed incline, adjustable incline and commercial treadmills, says Petrawski.

  • Manual treadmills are powered solely by the user's movement and offer a simple, compact design.
  • Motorized treadmills feature a motor that powers the belt and allows for adjustable speed and incline settings.
  • Folding treadmills have a space-saving design that allows the deck to be folded vertically when not in use.
  • Fixed-incline treadmills maintain a set angle throughout the workout.
  • Adjustable-incline models enable users to change the deck's angle for varied intensity.
  • Commercial treadmills are built for heavy-duty use in gyms, with powerful motors, large running surfaces and advanced features like touchscreen displays and workout programs.

What are the safety precautions for a treadmill?

To ensure that you’re using the treadmill safely, you must follow a protocol. First and foremost, Petrawski recommends reading the manufacturer's manual thoroughly.

Remember to wear suitable athletic clothing and shoes when you use the treadmill. Warm up properly before you use it each time, and use the safety key to stop the belt if it becomes detached. Start slowly and gradually increase speed.

Stay hydrated during your workout and avoid distractions. Use the handrails judiciously to maintain your natural form and respect your body's limits. Once you’re finished with your workout, cool down gradually with a slower pace and get off the treadmill once it comes to a complete stop.

Should you use a treadmill for walking or running?

“There are differences between treadmills designed specifically for walking versus those designed for running,” says Petrawski. Depending on the type of activity you will conduct on your treadmill, pay attention to the motor power, belt size, cushioning, speed and incline range, stability and additional features.

“While both walking and running treadmills serve the purpose of providing indoor cardiovascular exercise, they are designed with different specifications and features to accommodate the unique requirements of each activity,” says Petrawski. “It's important to choose a treadmill that aligns with your fitness goals, whether you primarily walk, run or engage in a combination of both activities.”

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What size room do I need for a treadmill?

This depends on several factors, including the dimensions of the treadmill itself, your walking or running stride length and any additional space needed for safety and comfort, says Petrawski. He shares some general guidelines to help determine the minimum room size required for a treadmill:

Treadmill dimensions

Consider the dimensions of the treadmill, including its length, width and height. Measure the footprint of the treadmill when it's fully assembled and in use. Treadmill sizes vary, but a typical home treadmill may have dimensions ranging from approximately 60 to 84 inches in length and 30 to 36 inches in width.

Clearance space

Allow for additional clearance space around the treadmill to ensure safe and comfortable use. Ideally, there should be at least 2 to 3 feet of clearance on all sides of the treadmill to prevent accidents and provide ample space for movement.

Ceiling height

Check the room's height to ensure that there is enough overhead clearance for the treadmill. Most treadmills have a deck height of around 6 to 8 inches above the floor when in use. Make sure there is sufficient ceiling height to accommodate your height plus the height of the treadmill when the incline is raised, if applicable.

Stride length

Consider your walking or running stride length. Allow enough room in front and behind the treadmill to accommodate your full stride length comfortably. For walking, this may require less space compared to running, where longer strides are taken.

Accessibility

Ensure that there is enough space to access and use the treadmill safely. Keep pathways clear and avoid placing the treadmill in cramped or cluttered areas to prevent tripping hazards and obstruction of emergency stop features.

Ventilation and air circulation

Choose a well-ventilated room with adequate air circulation to keep you cool and comfortable during your workout. Proper ventilation helps dissipate heat generated by the treadmill motor and prevents the buildup of humidity in the room.

Are high-end treadmills worth it?

“If you’re looking to save your knees and your back and enjoy your treadmill for a long time, the answer is yes. Absolutely, yes,” says Peel. He says that buying a good treadmill will avoid having to upgrade it often and spend on more machines. “Our health is priceless,” he says. “The value of something that can help our heart health, longevity and overall well-being shouldn’t be cheapened.”

What is a good treadmill’s miles per hour (mph)?

“This depends on what type of training you’re looking to do,” says Peel. “However, typically a treadmill that goes up to 12 mph should do the trick.”

What is a good treadmill incline?

Depending on the type of workout you want, Petrawski recommends the following inclines:

Flat surface (0%)

Walking or jogging on a flat treadmill surface (0% incline) is suitable for beginners or individuals looking for a moderate-intensity workout. It mimics walking or running on level ground and allows you to focus on building endurance and cardiovascular fitness without added resistance.

Low to moderate incline (1% to 5%)

Adding a slight incline of 1% to 5% can help simulate outdoor conditions and engage different muscle groups. Walking or jogging at a low to moderate incline increases the intensity of your workout, burns more calories and activates muscles in the lower body, including the calves, hamstrings and glutes.

Moderate to high incline (6% to 10%)

For a more challenging workout, consider increasing the treadmill incline to 6% up to 10%. Walking or running at a moderate to high incline elevates your heart rate, increases calorie burn and strengthens the muscles in your legs and core. It also helps improve endurance, stamina and overall cardiovascular fitness.

High incline (10% or higher)

Treadmills with inclines of 10% or higher provide an intense workout that closely simulates uphill running or hiking. This level of incline targets the muscles in your legs and glutes, enhances cardiovascular endurance and can help improve strength and power. High-incline workouts are particularly beneficial for individuals training for mountainous terrain or seeking an intense fitness challenge.

Interval training

Incorporating incline intervals into your treadmill workout is an effective way to vary intensity and maximize calorie burn. Alternating between periods of low and high incline, or mixing incline intervals with speed intervals, can help improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance and metabolic rate.

Which is better, a treadmill or an elliptical?

“When comparing treadmills and the best home ellipticals — or even the best rowing machines — in terms of cardio health and muscle growth, treadmills generally have an edge due to their ability to provide a more intense cardiovascular workout and engage a larger muscle group, particularly in the lower body,” says Petrawski. “While elliptical machines offer a low-impact workout and engage both upper and lower body muscles simultaneously, they may not provide the same level of intensity or muscle engagement as treadmills.”

If joint health or injury prevention is a concern, an elliptical machine may be a better option, but for those seeking maximum cardiovascular benefits and muscle growth potential, a treadmill is often the preferred choice, Petrawski adds.

Peel agrees. “Both are going to help you get in shape if you spend the time on either,” he says. “I won’t ever sway anyone away from one or the other because they can both change or save lives when used consistently.”

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