14 Best Treadmills for Walking in 2023

• Best overall: NordicTrack New Commercial 2450 | Skip to Review
• Value for money: Horizon T101 Treadmill | Skip to Review
• Best space-saving: ProForm City L6 | Skip to Review
• For fitness app compatibility: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill | Skip to Review
• Best auto-folding: Echelon Stride | Skip to Review
• For reducing stress on joints: Schwinn 810 Treadmill | Skip to review
• For heavier individuals: Bowflex Treadmill 10 | Skip to Review
• Best under-desk: Go Plus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill | Skip to Review
• For incline range: NordicTrack New Commercial X22i | Skip to Review
• For access to classes: Peloton Tread | Skip to Review
• Best manual treadmill: Sunny Health and Fitness Manual | Skip to Review
• For a variety of features: Sole F63 | Skip to review
• For posture and form: Trueform.Trainer | Skip to review
• Easiest assembly: Urevo 2-in-1 under desk treadmill | Skip to review

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. This can include brisk walking.

A treadmill may help a person achieve this physical activity goal.

This article looks at some of the best treadmills for walking. It discusses who treadmills may be suitable for and how effective they may be. It also provides a list of products a person can consider and answers some frequently asked questions.

Below is a list of some of the best treadmills for walking a person may consider purchasing online.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Best overall: NordicTrack New Commercial 2450

• List price: $2,999
• Standout features: 22-inch (in) touch screen and 30-day iFit membership
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds (lb)

This treadmill features a variety of smart features, including a 22-in touch screen, allowing users to stream workouts. It also has premium audio speakers and Bluetooth connectivity so a person can connect to their own music.

The speed ranges from 0–12 miles per hour (mph), and the incline ranges from -3–15%.

This treadmill offers a range of features that will make it suitable for people of varying experience levels.

It is adjustable for uphill and downhill walks and has a high weight limit. Additionally, the wide range of workout sessions users can choose from means that this model may appeal to multiple users, such as family members with different exercise goals and interests.

Best value for money: Horizon T101 Treadmill

• List price: $999
• Standout features: Bluetooth speakers, foldable design
• Weight capacity: 300 lb

This foldable treadmill has shock-absorbing three-zone cushioning support to help relieve pressure on the joints. It also features Bluetooth speakers and a device holder to allow a person to play audio and watch a tablet or phone screen while walking, meaning they can follow a fitness class if they wish.

The speed range is 0.5–10 mph, and the incline range is 0–10%.

Positive reviews state that the treadmill can be a good investment for persons who are into home workouts. Some claim they did not receive their order on time, and the company did not provide shipping updates.

Best space-saving: ProForm City L6

• List price: $999
• Standout features: small and foldable design, tablet holder
• Weight capacity: 250 lb

This foldable treadmill includes a 30-day iFit membership, giving a person access to personal trainer sessions. The ProForm City L6 does not include a screen but has a tablet holder.

The speed ranges from 0–8 mph. The incline level is not adjustable.

Only two reviews on the product page state that the treadmill is easy to set up but does not connect to Apple Watch.

Best for fitness app compatibility: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

• List price: $2,699
• Standout features: LED color touch screen, folding design
• Weight capacity: 375 lb

This treadmill features an LED touch screen which a person can use to connect to various fitness apps. It also has Bluetooth speakers, a Bluetooth chest strap, and multi-position device holders. The chest strap monitors the user’s heart rate as they exercise.

The speed ranges from 0.5–12 mph, and the incline ranges from 0–15%.

Best auto-folding: Echelon Stride

• List price: $1,299.99
• Standout features: auto-fold feature, smart device holder
• Weight capacity: 300 lb

The Echelon Stride treadmill folds up at the touch of a button. The running deck is impact-absorbing, and the treadmill includes a smart device holder.

Live and on-demand classes are also available, but a person must pay extra for this and view these classes via their own device.

The speed range is 0–12 mph, and there are 12 incline levels.

According to reviews, Echolon’s treadmill can fit in any workout space. It is foldable, and a person can store it under their bed or against the wall.

However, it can be a bit noisy when increasing the incline.

Best for reducing stress on joints: Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill

• List price: around $900
• Standout features: portable
• Weight capacity: 275 Ib

This treadmill features an Explore the World app. The app allows runners to check out global destinations in real-time at their own speed for a monthly subscription fee.

The treadmill also features 16 workout programs, two user profiles, and an integrated heart rate contact grip, so runners can keep track of their fitness level as they run at various speeds and inclines.

The treadmill has a 0–10% incline and a running belt that is 20 x 55 in.

It has a manufacturer’s warranty of 10 years for the motor and frame, 1 year for mechanical and electronics, and 1 year for labor.

Reviews are mostly positive. Customers say the treadmill is quiet, high quality, and easy to assemble.

However, other customers report that the treadmill stopped working after a couple of months, and technical support was not very helpful in resolving the problem. Other customers have had to replace the control panel, which stopped working a few weeks after purchase.

Best for heavier individuals: Bowflex Treadmill 10

• List price: $1,999
• Standout features: high weight capacity, HD touchscreen
• Weight capacity: 400 lb

This product has a high maximum weight capacity of 400 lb. It also has an HD touchscreen that allows access to apps such as Netflix and Disney Plus. The treadmill can fold up to save on storage space.

The treadmill’s speed goes up to 12 mph, and its incline levels range from -5–15%.

This treadmill has positive and negative reviews. Its assembly instructions are easy to follow and comes with different workout programs. Some customers had issues with the operating system and had to restart it multiple times.

Best under-desk and running combination: Go Plus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

• List price: $339.99
• Standout features: 7 color choices, foldable design
• Weight capacity: 265 lb

This folding treadmill comes in seven color options. A person can also choose whether to use it as an under-desk treadmill or as a running treadmill. It has Bluetooth connectivity, so it can connect to a person’s smart devices.

When a person uses it as an under-desk treadmill, the speed ranges from 0–2.4 mph. If a person uses it as a running treadmill, the speed can increase to 7.45 mph.

Best incline range: NordicTrack New Commercial X22i

• List price: $3,599
• Standout features: up to 40% incline level, HD touchscreen
• Weight capacity: 300 lb

The NordicTrack X22i has an incline and decline range of -5–40%. The auto-adjusting technology changes the speed and incline to keep a person in their optimal heart rate zone.

The speed ranges from 0–12 mph.

Best access to classes: Peloton Tread

• List price: $3,495
• Standout features: thousands of exercise classes available, HD touchscreen
• Weight capacity: 300 lb

This treadmill from Peloton offers users thousands of classes in different disciplines. However, a person must sign up for a membership, costing $39 per month, to access these classes. These classes appear on the HD touch screen provided with the treadmill.

The speed ranges from 0.5–12.5 mph. Users can adjust the incline from 0–12.5%.

Positive reviewers note that the Peloton’s treadmill is easy to set up and the workouts it offers are motivating. There are also negative reviews stating that the device shakes during workouts, making it difficult to run onto.

Best manual treadmill: Sunny Health and Fitness Manual Walking Treadmill

• List price: $169.97
• Standout features: no electricity required, foldable design
• Weight capacity: 220 lb

This treadmill does not contain a motor, so it does not need electricity. A person powers it by walking on the belt. Because it lacks a motor, this treadmill is less expensive than most of its competitors.

However, the absence of a motor may mean a person does not benefit from the motion and power of the moving belt, which may make this treadmill harder for some to use.

The speed range of this treadmill will vary depending on the person powering it. The treadmill sits on a slight incline and cannot be adjusted.

The product has a 4.1 star out of 5 based on 191 reviews. Most of them praise its quality and claim that it may suit individuals who have a tight budget.

People may also consider reading negative critiques, which state that the treadmill has a lightweight design and may not feel secure.

Best for a variety of features: Sole F63

• List price: $1,799
• Standout features: 15 incline levels, built-in speakers, large stop switch
• Weight capacity: 325 Ib

This treadmill has a combination of features that include cooling fans, speed and incline controls on the arm rests, six preset programs that include cardio training and fat-burning programs, and a 20 x 60-in running surface.

Additionally, it has built-in speakers so users can play music from their media device. It also has an integrated tablet holder so people can watch shows or follow workout routines via their smart devices. A chest strap is also included in the purchase price.

The treadmill has 10 onboarded programs, such as manual, hill, fat burn, cardio, strength, and HIIT, and two heart rate programs, one that targets 60% max heart rate and one for 80% max heart rate.

The treadmill’s speed goes up to 12 mph. The maximum incline is 15 levels.

The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.

The reviews on the company website are mostly positive. Customers state that the treadmill is sturdy, easy to clean, quiet, and easy to assemble and operate.

However, other customers state that they have experienced problems with shipment, and have had to wait longer than expected for the treadmill to arrive.

Best for posture and form: Trueform.Trainer

• List price: $3,495
• Standout features: curved deck design, high body weight capacity, no electricity required
• Weight capacity: 400 Ib

The manufacturer states that this curved, manual treadmill is virtually maintenance-free and user-friendly. It has a heavy-duty steel frame construction that can sustain up to 400 Ib at top speed.

Due to its 2.5-in curve, it is not programmed for steep inclines, so it may be more suited for walking, running, and sprinting than climbing.

The manufacturer states the belt reacts to the user’s movement, balance, posture, hip position, and foot strike, simulating a natural outdoor running surface. This may encourage the runner to keep their body balanced, leading to improved core strength, form, posture, and higher calorie burn.

TrueForm encourages prospective buyers to book a free consultation before purchasing the treadmill to test it out. People can do this via Google Hangout, phone chat, or in person by visiting the TrueForm HQ Gym in Connecticut.

TrueForm offers a 10-year warranty on the frame, 2 years on the tread mechanism and console, and 90 days for labor.

Customer reviews on the TrueForm website are all positive. Reviewers state that the treadmill is durable, and they can see and feel the results. Another customer reports how their running style improved from using this treadmill.

Best for ease of assembly: Urevo 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill

• List price: around $480
• Standout features: arrives ready to use, easy storage, lightweight
• Weight capacity: 265 Ib

This 2-in-1 treadmill arrives fully assembled and can be used straight away. Its foldable design and wheels make it easy to store. Additionally, it can fit under a desk, so people can use it as a walking machine and exercise during their workday.

It has a maximum running speed of 7.6 mph and a maximum walking speed of 3.8 mph. It is powered by remote control.

This treadmill also features a 42.5 x 17-in running belt, which contains five layers of silica gel to absorb shock and cushion the knees, muscles, and joints.

The treadmill has a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty.

Reviews are mostly positive. Customers state that the treadmill is quiet and easy to move around the home and re-position. Others state it is solidly built and durable.

However, some customers say the treadmill lacks shock absorption, so they have had to add extra padding underneath. Others say it lacks technical features, such as displaying seconds alongside minutes, or a way to keep track of weekly total distance.

Below is a table comparing the treadmills for walking included in this article.

A few factors a person may wish to consider when choosing a treadmill for walking include:

• Budget: There are many quality treadmills available at different price points. A person should consider their overall budget and choose a treadmill that offers a wide range of features and fits their ideal price range. A person should also consider any additional costs for memberships, payment schemes, and extra features they would like.
• Weight capacity: Users with a high body weight should research the weight capacity before purchasing.
• Settings: Speed ranges and incline settings may influence a person’s decision when purchasing a treadmill. For those who want to use their treadmill for walking, models with lower speed ranges may be adequate.
• Warranty: A person should ensure they purchase from a company that provides a suitable warranty. Some brands may also offer an in-home trial.
• Shock absorption: A person can check if the treadmill has shock absorption to reduce pressure on the joints.

A treadmill is a piece of equipment that allows a person to walk or run while staying in the same place. A person can use a treadmill at home or at a gym.

Users can often change the speed of the treadmill belt to increase their walking or running speed. They also may be able to increase the incline of the treadmill to simulate walking or running uphill.

Treadmills can be suitable for many adults for daily exercise, injury rehabilitation, and athletic training. People of all experience levels can use a treadmill. As a person can start walking slowly and gradually increase their pace and distance, walking can be good for people who have not exercised before or have been sedentary for an extended period.

According to the advocacy organization Arthritis Foundation, the benefits of walking include:

• improved circulation
• weight loss
• reduced risk of bone density loss
• stronger muscles
• improved mood
• improved sleep
• lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease

Walking can also benefit people with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) notes that walking at a brisk pace can lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. It can also improve a person’s insulin sensitivity.

It is important to note that some treadmills may have a weight limit. People with high body weights should check the weight limit of their chosen treadmill to ensure that it is safe for them to use.

Treadmills are not safe for children to use, and research has found that children can be at risk of sustaining injuries. For example, researchers in a small 2020 study analyzed records of 12 children with hand abrasions from treadmills and found that this injury occurred after they touched the treadmill belt when it was in use.

A person should also keep pets away from the treadmill when it is in use.

Treadmills are effective in allowing users to regularly participate in moderate aerobic activity. Aerobic activity makes the heart and lungs work harder than usual. This can increase the efficiency of the lungs, heart, circulatory system, and muscles.

Aerobic exercise can also help a person burn calories and lose weight.

Additionally, treadmills can be part of a person’s rehabilitation after heart disease and can help prevent further heart damage, according to a 2018 study.

A 2021 study states that treadmill walking and overground walking can be effective for persons with chronic stroke. These can help with improving balance, motor function, and walking speed.

Treadmills can be beneficial for people with neurological disorders as well. The authors of a 2020 study found that children with cerebral palsy can improve their gait and limb support time with treadmill training.

When using a treadmill for walking, a person can choose the speed at which they walk. This means that treadmills can be suitable for people who need to build up their walking pace and duration slowly.

A treadmill provides a stable walking surface, and if a person has one at home, it can be a convenient way to take part in exercise each day. This can help people keep up with exercise plans.

Below are some common questions about treadmills for walking.

Is walking 30 minutes on a treadmill good?

A daily 30-minute session on a treadmill is a suitable aim for people beginning their exercise plan. Spending more time on the treadmill may result in increased health benefits.

The ADA recommends that a person new to exercise to start walking for a few minutes a day and aim to build up to five 30-minute walking sessions per week.

How should a beginner walk on a treadmill?

Beginners should start at a slow speed and gradually increase over time. They should also start with shorter sessions lasting 15 minutes at a time. A person may also wish to keep the incline neutral to make their exercise session easier when they are starting out.

Is walking on a treadmill bad for the knees?

Users who run or jog on a treadmill may find that it puts pressure on their knees. However, walking on a treadmill should not cause as much pressure on the knee joints.

In fact, walking can also help a person build stronger bones.

What’s a good treadmill for just walking?

People who wish to buy a treadmill for walking may consider various factors, such as:

• speed ranges
• budget
• weight capacity
• shock absorption features

Is it OK to walk on the treadmill every day?

People can choose to walk outdoors or on their treadmill every day. They may engage in a 150-minute weekly moderate aerobic activity, including brisk walking.

Is walking on a treadmill as effective as walking?

A 2021 study indicates that treadmill walking can be effective as overground walking. Another study found that older adults may feel unstable after walking on a treadmill and may take time to adjust afterward.

Does walking on a treadmill help with weight management?

Yes, walking on a treadmill can help with weight management. A 2022 study found that walking at a steady pace for longer periods is more effective for weight management and overall body fat loss than walking at a faster pace for a shorter period.

Is walking on a treadmill considered a cardio workout?

Yes, walking on a treadmill is considered a cardio workout as it works the heart, lungs, and large muscle groups. However in order to challenge the cardiovascular system it is necessary to walk at a pace and intensity that increases the demand on the heart, lungs and muscles. This pace and intensity will differ for each person. People can measure their level of exertion by taking the talk test and see how easy it is to converse.

A variety of treadmills for walking are available on the U.S. market. Many include access to exercise classes, smart device connectivity, and a range of speed and incline settings that make them suitable for walking and running alike.

A person should consider their budget and the weight capacity, shock absorption, and warranty length of a treadmill before making a purchase.