The Best Treadmills

Buying Guide

The treadmill—an exercise machine with a continuous belt that allows users to walk, run or jog in place—has been a home exercise staple since the 1960s, when American mechanical engineer William Staub introduced a home fitness machine called the PaceMaster 600. Before that, though, the treadmill was invented in 1818 in England as a prison rehabilitation device that encouraged the incarcerated to learn from their sweat.

Thankfully, the controversial machines were only used in British prisons for about a decade—but Staub’s treadmill evolved into one of the most popular cardio machines in the United States, outselling elliptical machines, dumbbells and stationary bikes. They allow users to walk or run—easily accessible ways to get your body moving—no matter what the weather is like. And the benefits to this type of exercise are plentiful: In fact, studies have shown that walking on the treadmill for one hour per day can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress levels, burn calories and more.

Because there are so many running machines on the market today, it can be intimidating to figure out which treadmill is best for your needs. While most have the basic components—a frame, motor, belt, electronics—models are equipped with different special features, from workout subscriptions and preset programs to digital speed sensors and LED touchscreens. As a result, they vary in cost: Low to mid-range ones can set you back a few hundred dollars, while the more expensive ones can cost thousands. Here, we’ve rounded up some of our top picks and some tips on how to find the right one for you.

• Check the quality of the frame, the skeleton of the machine, when looking for a treadmill. A heavier-gauge steel frame will have a longer life and can support individuals of any weight. Also consider buying one with an extended (at least 10 years) or lifetime warranty for the frame and motor.
• Another fact to consider when buying a treadmill is how much space you have. Those who live in smaller quarters should go for more compact, foldable options that store easily.
• If you have a limited budget, consider investing in a lightly used treadmill, but be sure to inspect the machine’s condition (ask to see and try it before you buy).
• The motor’s horsepower directly affects the quality of your workouts. Look for a motor with at least 1. 5 continues-duty horsepower (CHP). If you plan to use it frequently or have a higher body weight, though, get one with 2.5 or 3.0 CHP.
• If you plan on using your treadmill to run, you’ll want one that goes 10 mph or higher with a 48-by-18-inch belt, particularly if you’re taller.
• To maintain the quality of your treadmill, be sure to lubricate it once a year at the minimum (the machine will likely come with instructions on how to do this). You should also check the belt for signs of wear and tear regularly and make sure it is centered and straight (if you feel like you’re slipping or the machine slows down randomly, the belt may be misaligned).
• While walking on the treadmill for an hour a day can help you lose weight, boost your mood, lower blood pressure and strengthen bones, it’s important to maintain a consistent exercise schedule at the right pace to enjoy these benefits. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends getting 150 to 300 minutes of moderate physical experience per week, or 75 to 150 miles of more vigorous activity.
• A good starting goal is to walk on the treadmill for 30 minutes, five days a week, then slowly increase duration and intensity. Additionally, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans also urges individuals to perform whole-body strength training twice a week, which can include anything from working with resistance bands and dumbbells to doing push-ups and lunges.