9 Best Treadmills for Walking and Running

We know exercise equipment. Our writers and editors are fitness freaks who’ve kitted out their home and garage gyms with all types of gear, as well as used countless machines and other fitness equipment at commercial gyms. We independently research and, where possible, test every product we recommend.

Having a home workout option is always a good idea. For some, it isn’t feasible to run outside frequently, and getting to the gym can be difficult and inconvenient.

Throughout the years, treadmills have managed to retain their place as one of the most popular cardio machines in the world due to how easy they are to use, as well as their ability to provide an efficient home workout.

However, treadmill quality varies widely.

A multitude of factors go into what makes for a quality treadmill including speed potential, build quality, durability, and many more. Today, we bring you the 9 best treadmills for walking and running so you can get the mileage you need without issues slowing you down.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at each model in detail, going through the pros and cons to ensure you have all of the information required to make an informed decision about which is best for you.

Top Treadmill for Runnings At a Glance

Should You Get a Treadmill for Walking and/or Running?

If you’re trying to get in shape, improve your runs, or the weather is starting to get too cold (or hot) for outdoor exercise then getting a treadmill is a good idea. Modern treadmills allow you to precisely control your runs or walks in ways that outdoor environments can’t. You can easily increase your speed to make yourself work harder, or decrease speed to ease off the intensity. Most treadmills also have an incline function that further allows you to up the intensity of your exercise by simulating uphill walking/running. Some also have a decline function that simulate walking or running downhill, which can be an intense form of eccentric training for your leg muscles.

Also, pretty much all high-quality treadmills are designed to be relatively quiet and smooth, making them perfect for home use. Depending on the model you get, you may even be able to run at high speeds without disturbing others in or around your household. Similarly, treadmill decks are designed to absorb impact, which will lessen the wear and tear on your hips, knees and ankles.

Plus, having a treadmill at home will, in theory, make it more convenient and more likely for you to actually do your walking and running training. This has seriously positive health benefits.

Treadmills for Running Reviews

#1. Nautilus T618 Treadmill

The Nautilus T681 Treadmill is high quality in every way, from the durable frame and large 2.75” rollers to the extra-thick 3-ply belt and 3.5 Continuous Horsepower (CHP) motor.

The motor is robust enough to power through even the most rigorous runs, while the belt feels nice and rebounds underfoot to help reduce impact on the joints and muscle fatigue. Needless to say, the T618 is well-designed for long-term, daily use.

26 workout programs come built-in, with the option to choose between cardio endurance, weight loss, or interval training routines. For an even more immersive experience, sync your smart device through Bluetooth and experience RunSocial workouts. These are not only a ton of fun but can help you track your performance to better achieve your goals.

The 60”-long belt is perfect for runners and taller users, and if you need a little extra challenge or variety you can set the incline all the way up to 15%. Rubberized buttons have a premium feel to them and make it easy to adjust incline settings.

You can monitor your workout progress on 2 backlit LCD windows: one 3.75” and the other 5.5” wide, and you’ll find a handy media shelf right in the center of the console, along with an accessory tray to hold your water bottle and towel.

The only potential downside is that the treadmill is quite heavy. If you need a machine you can easily move around your home, this won’t be it.

However, for those who want a stationary machine, the Nautilus’ durability and dependability are unmatched.

The Good

The Not So Good

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#2. BowFlex T10

BowFlex is a brand known for its reliability, innovation, and results. The T10 is exemplary of that and is great for all ages and tech-savviness.

If you have multiple users or your whole family would like to use the treadmill, it’s also a prime choice as it supports 4 different user profiles in the onboard program, or unlimited profiles if you have a JRNY Membership (you get a 2-month trial membership included with the treadmill).

You really get the best of both worlds here: A durable frame and belt that will serve your household for years to come while remaining portable and foldable.

The 4.0 CHP motor and long track are strong enough to sustain intense runs up to 12 MPH, as well as interval/HIIT workouts. This is one sturdy machine, though assembly will require at least 2 people due to its heftiness.

The full-color 10”-wide screen shows all of the typical feedback along with heart rate monitoring (it comes with a chest strap and contact HR readers) and will keep you motivated by “celebrating” every 100 calories you burn. You can also connect through Bluetooth to log fitness stats and help stay on track. Also, if you’re that way inclined, the touchscreen can stream your favorite service via your own membership (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+)

Combine all that with the fact that it’s a relatively affordable machine and you can see why the T10 is one of the most popular treadmills out there.

The Good

The Not So Good

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#3. LifeSpan Fitness TR6000i

A great no-frills treadmill that provides real results, the LifeSpan Fitness TR6000i offers a large workout area great for wider/taller users.

A 3.50 HP motor makes it great for walking, jogging, and running up to a speedy 13.5 MPH with a 13% incline grade and 3-degree decline. The decline simulates downhill running, which creates an even deeper burn in the legs.

Categorized as a commercial machine, it’s priced as a home model but comes with an impressive 40+ built-in workout programs. 8 different compression shocks make for significantly reduced joint impact so you can run longer and further without pain.

You can track your progress with the backlit LCD screen, along with pulse grip heart rate monitoring, or through the included wireless chest strap. The console is pretty basic but doesn’t take away from functionality and results at all.

Large rollers help extend the life of your treadmill and a wider, longer workout area offers more freedom in movement and gait. The warranty is also respectable, so you can expect it to last you throughout regular, intense workouts.

To keep yourself entertained, there are built-in Bluetooth speakers, an audio jack, tablet holder, and headphone port.

The Good

The Not So Good

Check Current Price at LifeSpan Fitness

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#4. NordicTrack X22i

NordicTrack is one of the most prolific brands in the cardio world, thanks to their penchant for creating reliable, versatile machines that are great for the entire family. With 5 user profile options and an interactive HD touch screen, everyone will want to use it!

The X22i carries on this legacy of versatility, offering 44 onboard workout programs, an extraordinary incline up to 40%, and decline up to 6%. If you’re serious about climbing hills, performing HIIT, or simply challenging your body, this machine can’t be overlooked.

When used with your 1-year free iFit subscription, you can even set the decline and incline grade to change according to the trainer’s instructions. Just remember that once your free year is up, you’ll have to pay for this feature.

Did we mention you can even use it for sled pushing? Simply set it to manual mode and you can start pushing for serious strength building.

With a 4.0 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor, you never have to worry about it stuttering while in use, and self-cooling ensures it won’t overheat.

Those looking for a solid, stationary machine will find the NordicTrack an absolute beast with some of the most challenging workouts possible in the comfort of your home.

The Good

The Not So Good

Check Current Price at NordicTrack

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#5. Horizon Fitness 7.8AT

Last but not least, we have the Horizon Fitness 7.8AT, which has a few significant differences from the T101, including the new 9.3” full-color display screen which is a bit clearer and easier to read. If you want something on the more simple side, but still pleasant to use, the 7.8AT is a nice option.

You receive 8 built-in workout programs which isn’t as much as the others on our guide, but if you aren’t training for a marathon you should be just fine. In fact, their Sprint 8 program is a crowd favorite, incorporating HIIT training programs to help improve fitness and body composition quickly.

The larger-than-normal running deck is perfect for HIIT and can reach up to 12MPH and a max incline of 15 degrees. The 4HP motor is the most powerful on our guide, ensuring it can facilitate even the most grueling runs. If you value that above various entertainment options or interactive screens, the 7.8AT is the machine for you.

To reduce impact from these runs, you get a variable response cushioning system that keeps joints feeling fresh and your feet comfortable.

When you’re done using it, the frame folds up quickly and easily for storage which is ideal if you don’t have a dedicated space to keep your treadmill out.

The Good

The Not So Good

Check Current Price at Horizon Fitness

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Treadmills for Walking Reviews

#1. Horizon T101 Treadmill

For the best bang for your buck, take a good look at the Horizon T101 Treadmill. If you prefer walking or light jogging, you can easily save money while still receiving an exceptional product. Not only that, but if you need a machine that won’t take up too much room and folds away easily after use, it’s hard to beat.

With a shorter deck than most others, it’s compact and easy to move around due to its light weight. It’s important to note that the motor isn’t quite as powerful as alternatives made for fast running, but if you aren’t much of a runner it won’t matter anyway. That doesn’t mean you’re limited in performance, though. With a whopping 40 total built-in workout programs, it’s not likely you’ll ever get bored or plateau with results. On top of that, you can set it up to a 10% incline and 10MPH speed which is more than enough for most.

Multiple workout metrics are shown on the LED display so you can keep track of your results. If you’d like to track your heart rate for increased accuracy, you also have EKG grips built into the handlebar. Whether you have knee problems or are simply watching out for your joints, you’re sure to appreciate the 3-zone Variable Response Cushioning which reduces impact and fatigue.

The Good

The Not So Good

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#2. Sole F63

It may be simple and straightforward, but the Sole F63 is anything but sub-par. In fact, it’s one of the highest-quality walking treadmills currently out there.

While walking doesn’t require as much space as running does, the model still comes with a 60” running surface which is ideal if you ever end up taking advantage of the 12MPH it’s capable of.

A steel frame along with advanced cushioning and large track rollers speak to the high standards the brand holds itself to. The cushioning is especially helpful if you have knee or general joint issues. The motor is only 3.0 CHP which isn’t the toughest out there but is still quiet and smooth.

10 workouts will help you reach your goals and 2 user profiles are handy if you have another person in your home who wants to use it.

If you’re a walker who loves a bit of a challenge, you have up to a 15% incline to really get the calories burning. You can track your heart rate either with a wireless chest strap (not included) or the contact pulse monitors built into the handles.

Finally, if you’re tight on space, the machine is easy and quick to fold up and move aside!

The Good

The Not So Good

Check Current Price on Amazon

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#3. NordicTrack T 9.5S

NordicTrack is one of the most reputable brands in the market, prioritizing quality and reliability over trendiness or gimmicks. That’s evident here, with their T 9.5S: an affordable machine that brings us back to basics but doesn’t skimp on quality.

It also comes with their signature iFit technology, which essentially like having your own personal trainer right in your own home!

You do get a free 1-year membership to iFit, offering countless different exercise programs, classes, virtual running tracks all around the world, etc. However, you will have to pay after the year if you want to continue using it.

The good news is that as the machine comes with over 50 onboard programs, you still get a ton of options even if you don’t subscribe.

One of the crowd favorite features is their FlexSelect Cushioning which lets you adjust the hardness/cushiness of the deck, allowing you the feeling of training outdoors. The 14” interactive HD touchscreen is bright and attractive and makes it easy to track your progress as well.

Once you’re done, use the easy-lift folding mechanism to quickly tuck it away when not in use!

The Good

The Not So Good

Check Current Price on Amazon

↑ Back to Table of Contents

#4. XTERRA Fitness TR150

The XTERRA Fitness TR150 is one of the best options out there if you’re looking to save cash but still get in a good workout. With a 2.25 HP motor, it’s the most robust machine out there but it is more than enough to walk and jog on – all the way up to 9 MPH.

Coming with 3 manual incline settings, it can be a bit annoying to have to get off and increase it, but will help boost the intensity of your walk. The 50” deck is long enough for jogging and running, and even comes with their XTRASoft Cushioned Deck technology to reduce impact on the joints. 12 included workout programs are helpful for adding versatility to your routines and are easy to access as they’re located right on the cupholders.

The TR150 is relatively lightweight and is also simple to fold up and move around should you need the extra space.

The Good

The Not So Good

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Choosing the Right Treadmill

These are the main things you want to pay attention to when selecting a treadmill for either walking or running.

Size

First, you need to make sure that the treadmill you want actually fits inside your home! Go ahead and grab a tape measure, measuring the space where you plan on using the machine. Remember to keep at least a few inches of space between the treadmill and any walls/furniture as well.

Not only that, but if you’re going to be running, you need to make sure the deck length is at least 50” long. If you can get up around 60”, that’s even better. This is because when we run, our stride length increases significantly. While walking, our stride is much shorter and 50” is just fine.

Power

The power of a treadmill will play a big role in determining what you can do on it. If you’re just planning on walking and light jogging then you can opt for a motor with 3CHP or lower but for more intense running you really need anything from 3.5 to 4CHP. The more powerful the motor, the smoother the operation, and the longer the life of the machine will be.

Versatility

Your treadmill needs to be versatile to allow you to improve for years to come and switch up your routine to keep your body guessing. Our bodies adapt very quickly, so you want a model that can help you progress. Try to score a machine with at least 10 built-in fitness programs and an incline up to at least 10%. If you don’t have many fitness programs included on your machine, then at least look for one that works with iFit or Bluetooth so you can run in virtual worlds by connecting to fitness apps on your smart devices.

There are many options which include the ability to set the incline up to 40%, on top of the option to decline which simulates walking/running downhill. One day you may feel like running on “flat ground” and the other you may want to do intervals sprinting on steep hills, and if you don’t have these options you’ll seriously be restricted.

For running, you’ll probably want more workout programs included (think 20+) as you likely aren’t going to want to fall into the same routines – particularly if you participate in races. With walking, you’re not going to require as much range in terms of speed, though you will probably want to focus more on incline settings.

Durability

The quality of the machine is huge and should be one of the main considerations to take when selecting the model for you. This goes double if you’ll be using it daily or have multiple people who’ll be using it. Running also creates more impact, so if you’re planning on running on yours, it needs to be able to hold up to this. The machine should be sturdy enough to support at least 300 pounds, come with large rollers (ideally), a thick belt, and a frame that will last for a long time.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions About Treadmills

What are the best treadmills for 2021?

Each of the models on our guide are superb choices, whether you like walking, running, or a combination of both. However, if we were to narrow it down to one for running, it would be the Nautilus T618. It’s durable, powerful, and make it easy to move seamlessly between walking, running, incline, and no incline. Not only that, but it is easy to use and affordable considering the kind of quality you receive.

For walking, we suggest the Horizon T101 which is the best bang for your buck. It comes with 3-zone responsive cushioning to reduce stress on your body, and includes over 40 workout programs for incredible versatility, along with all other necessary accessories.

Is it worth buying a treadmill?

Absolutely. Many of us make excuses when it comes to going to the gym or walking/running outside. The weather isn’t nice enough, there are too many people at the gym, I don’t have time…the list goes on. These are all eliminated with a treadmill at home and can help you better achieve your fitness goals.

Can I lose weight with a treadmill?

You sure can! In order to lose weight, we must burn more calories than we consume. It’s easy to scorch some serious calories on a treadmill, no matter what your current physical fitness looks like. Even walking at an incline while watching your favorite series on Netflix can quickly rack up some burned calories!

Is it okay to use a treadmill every day?

Absolutely. Moving for at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week is recommended, however you could still use your treadmill every day. Just remember to listen to your body. If you are experiencing any pain or serious discomfort, you need to give yourself a break. You can also wear yourself out, so if you’re new to running or don’t currently exercise regularly, start out by using your treadmill 3 days a week and move up from there as you deem necessary.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

---

Well, there you have it: The Best Treadmills

We’ve researched high and low to provide reviews of the top performing treadmills for your exercise needs. No matter what your budget is, or the available space you have in your home, we know there’s at least one model on our guide that will suit you well. Get ready to start feeling better both mentally and physically!