Best Treadmills of 2022

Pros

• 40% max incline
• Offers multiple programs (more than just cardio)
• Real-time trainers

Cons

• Expensive
• Many features contingent on iFIT membership

NordicTrack’s Commercial X32i Incline is the best of the best with all of its one-of-a-kind features for a motivating experience. The treadmill features AutoAdjust technology, where iFIT trainers can adjust your speed and incline for you during the workout session. The on-demand workouts go further than just cardio, though. They also offer strength training, boot camps, yoga, and mindfulness classes as part of the iFIT membership, which costs $39 per month. NordicTrack doesn't skimp with its top-of-the-line technology, including a 32-inch HD touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth headphone connectivity, and a mobile app.

It’s easy to say that the X32i is worth every penny, and NordicTrack doesn’t mess around when it comes to its products.

Speed: 0 to 12 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 40% incline (Highest on the market); -6% decline

Programs: iFIT membership ($39 a month with a free 30-day trial)

Pros

• Provides body monitoring during workout
• Safe and easy hydraulic system
• Multilevel built-in programs

Cons

• Incline only goes up to 4.3%
• Motor isn't as strong as other competitors
• Maximum speed of 9 mph

While many love a good run on the treadmill (especially when it’s wet and cold outside), walking is also a great way to get moving, and it’s much less strenuous on the knees. The SF-T4400 tracks speed, distance, time, pulse, and calories burned during a workout on its LCD screen and also offers user-friendly control keys on its handrails so you can easily start, stop, and adjust your speed. For those who don’t have a lot of extra room in their home, this treadmill can be folded up and taken down using a soft drop hydraulic mechanism, making it hands-free, easy, and, most importantly, safe.

This treadmill is great for those who want to walk their way toward their health benefits while having the option to opt into one of the brand's multilevel built-in programs.

Speed: 0.5 to 9 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 4.3% incline (3 manual incline options); no decline

Programs: 9 available

Pros

• Interactive programs and trainers
• Full-body workouts
• ActivePulse technology option

Cons

• Have to pay for membership
• Smaller touchscreen
• AutoAdjust may not appeal to everyone

While walking is easier on your knees and has a lower chance for injury, running burns more calories in a shorter amount of time, making it a smart choice for busy adults and those addicted to the runner’s high (guilty). The NordicTrack Commercial 1750, similar to the X32i, offers interactive trainers with the iFIT membership (including the AutoAdjust technology) and a multitude of workout options, including HIIT, studio, strength training, and more. The touchscreen is about half the size (14 inches), but it turns and pivots to be where you are, on or off your treadmill.

One of the best things about this treadmill is that it features ActivePulse, automatically adjusting your speed and incline to maintain your optimal heart rate zone, ensuring that you get the best workout possible. That feature does require a specific heart rate monitor, which is sold separately.

Speed: 0 to 12 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 15% incline; -3% decline

Programs: iFIT Membership ($39 a month with a free 30-day trial)

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Foldable

Cons

• Doesn't have all the bells and whistles
• Only 3 incline options
• 2.25 horsepower motor is on the weaker side

We all know that buying a treadmill can often come with a big price tag, but even when trying to keep costs down, it’s important to buy a well-made product. XTERRA Fitness’ TR150 fits all the needs of a basic treadmill and more. Made from durable heavy gauge steel, it's relatively lightweight compared to competitors (97 pounds) and even folds when not in use. The treadmill also has an LCD to track progress and offers 12 preset programs and three manual incline settings. This product was designed with comfort, convenience, and safety in mind while still keeping it as simple (and budget-friendly) as possible.

Speed: 0 to 10 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 3 incline levels; no decline

Programs: 12 available

Pros

• Thousands of classes to choose from
• Individual profiles for household members
• Add-on workouts via the Peloton App

Cons

• Expensive
• Most of the features require all-access membership
• User height only goes up to 6'4"

Peloton Tread is a great option for those looking to get more than just their cardio in. With the on-demand classes it features, it can help you train your arms, legs, abs, and more. With the all-access membership ($44 per month), you get to pick from thousands of classes of different lengths and difficulties, adjusting to your own level.

It’s more pricey than many of its competitors, but for those looking for that interactive, full-body workout experience, this is a smart choice.

Speed: 0 to 12.5 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 12.5% incline; no decline

Programs: Thousands of classes

Pros

• Folds small enough to fit under a bed
• Connects to an app (tracks past data)
• Good price

Cons

• Small screen
• Only provides 3 programs
• May be too short for tall people

When it comes to the Goplus 3HP Folding Treadmill, big things really do come in small packages. The treadmill features a sensitive LED touchscreen that offers three programs while keeping track of your speed, time, distance, calories, and heart rate. There is also a holder above the screen to place your phone on a sticker, so you can connect to the OVICX app to log all of your fitness data and find fun running classes to join. Additionally, once you've finished your workout, the treadmill folds up and can be tucked anywhere from a corner in a room to under a bed.

Speed: 1 to 7.5 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: No incline or decline

Programs: 3 available

Pros

• Speed is limitless
• Uses no electricity
• May reduce risk of injury

Cons

• Doesn't have incline or decline
• Some complaints about quality control on arrival

The thought of a treadmill with no power might make you think that you’re in for a lot more work just trying to get it going, but Assault Fitness’ AssaultRunner Elite claims it's the most powerful manual treadmill ever created. With its curved belt design, the brand claims it “naturally mimics above-ground running” and “promotes proper running form and technique.” One of the best aspects of a manual treadmill is that you are in complete control of your speed, so you become limitless. With a low-impact design and the shock-absorbent belt, it also greatly reduces the risk of injury compared to other (motorized) brands.

Speed: Limitless (user-powered)

Incline and Decline Percentages: No incline or decline

Programs: 4 available

Pros

• USB charging
• Connects to training classes
• QuickDial controls

Cons

• Could be pricey (depending on features)
• Heavy even with wheels

If you’re looking to step up your workout game, the Horizon 7.8 AT treadmill may be the way to go. This treadmill was designed with HIIT intervals in mind, with its 10 specially designed programs, an advanced Bluetooth chest strap that also tracks your heart rate, and other technological connectivity options.

Peloton digital and Zwift are just two brands that connect you with thousands of classes, but Horizon’s programs specifically cater to HIIT workouts, such as its Hill Climb and Sprint 8. It also comes with an LED high-contrast screen, media controls, and USB charging. This piece of equipment brings high satisfaction with its abundance of features, durability, and compatibility with multiple apps to always keep your workouts fun.

Speed: 0.5 to 12 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 15% incline; no decline

Programs: 10 available

Pros

• Interactive classes and personal training
• CoolAire fans
• Foldable

Cons

• Requires membership for access to all classes
• Console may shake with intense running

While some like to be in control of their workouts, others like the interaction and motivation of working with trainers. ProForm Pro 9000 is a good choice for those who like interactive workouts from iFIT trainers adjusting your speed and incline and a large variety of studio classes with personal trainers by your side along the way. The company offers different classes, such as strength training and yoga, but focuses on interactive training classes to personalize your workout. The iFIT membership also automatically tracks each training session, so you don’t have to worry about counting and recording numbers. With the 22-inch touchscreen, connectivity to Bluetooth, and live training sessions, the Pro 9000 will make you feel like your trainer is right there with you.

Speed: 0 to 12 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: 12% incline; -3% decline

Programs: iFIT membership ($39 a month with a free 30-day trial)

Pros

• Works well for multitasking
• Good for posture and staying active while working
• Option to buy both the desk and treadmill or solely the treadmill

Cons

• Could be distracting for some people
• Expensive
• Not many options for sizes and colors of the desk

Long days are hard for those trying to stay fit. It’s even harder when you just can’t seem to squeeze in a short workout with all the craziness of the daily mom routine. Luckily, treadmill desks have made a huge wave (especially for those working from home). Even stars like Victoria Beckham, who has four children and an evolving design career, don’t let it stop them from getting some movement in via a treadmill desk (see what other secrets celebrities are using to stay in shape).

InMovement’s brand offers several distinctive features, such as library-quiet activity, wider and shorter lengths, and a Bluetooth tracking app. The app lets you adjust your speed, connects to Apple Health and Fitbit, and tracks measurements like distance, calories, speed, and more. The brand sells both the desk and treadmill together or just the treadmill alone for those who already have a desk. If you’re on the fence about getting a treadmill desk, InMovement offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to try it out.

Speed: 0.3 to 2 mph

Incline and Decline Percentages: No incline or decline

Programs: None available

While each of these treadmills is meant to help you perform cardio at a high-quality level, they are each vastly different from one another. Everyone has a different level of fitness and different needs, so treadmills are designed to cater to that.

Some consumers may be looking to buy a top-tier machine to complete their daily 3-mile run, while others want a way to stay active during their 12-hour workday at a desk. Regardless, this list of treadmills has something for everyone — whether you’re newly active or a savvy sprinter.

What is the best quality treadmill?

There may not be one best quality treadmill based on different factors, such as speed, motor, material, and features offered, but there are top choices that are popular with satisfied customers. NordicTrack, ProForm, and Sunny Health & Fitness are all highly rated and reviewed by satisfied customers based on the wear and tear of products over time and the warranty (which most companies offer for various parts).

What time of year do treadmills go on sale?

As most products do, treadmills typically go on sale around Black Friday. With more sales happening online, it’s also easier to look up prices, ensure you get the products you want, and have them delivered right to your doorstep!

What treadmill do professional runners use?

Professional runners use a variety of treadmills, depending on their goals and the features they may want in their workout. The NordicTrack 1750 and the Horizon 7.8 AT are both popular with experienced runners, as they have advanced features and more options for training. There is no right or wrong when picking a treadmill, but specific features coupled with shock-absorption for a soft landing can lead to overall comfort to maximize your workouts.