With advancements in technology, evolving fitness trends and diverse user needs, today's treadmills offer more than just a moving belt. Whether you are training for your next race, looking for a compact, apartment-friendly solution or craving an interactive workout experience, there is a model designed specifically for you. Common treadmill types include folding and non-folding, but there are more options, including manual operation, models with touchscreens and machines that integrate with popular fitness apps.
With so many choices, it is essential to understand which one best aligns with your space, budget and fitness goals. Let's break it down and find the perfect treadmill for your lifestyle.
What Is a Treadmill?
The first motorized treadmill was invented for medical research and used in cardiac stress testing. It is easy to see how these machines pivoted into essential tools in medical and sports science. Today, they are considered a must-have cardio fitness tool. They are designed to closely mimic outdoor conditions through resistance and incline that reflect the force of walking or running on uneven terrain against the wind.
Outdoor running is largely dependent on weather and location. Treadmills offer consistency, convenience and a customizable workout setting from the comfort of your home or gym. These are some of the most versatile and accessible pieces of fitness equipment, providing a controlled environment for walking, jogging and running. Features that matter when you are treadmill-shopping include:
- Motor power: Aim for at least 1.5 continuous horsepower (CHP) for walking and 3.0 CHP for running. A stronger motor ensures smoother performance and longevity.
- Running deck: A larger deck gives you a more comfortable stride. Choose a deck that is at least 60 inches if you are running.
- Shock absorption: Cushioning and shock absorption features reduce the impact on your joints, making workouts easier on your knees.
- Incline and decline: The more incline or decline you have, the better you can mimic outdoor terrain and add intensity to your workouts.
- Technology: Streaming capabilities, touchscreens, heart rate monitoring and smart training apps can make your workouts more engaging.
What Types of Treadmills Are There?
Treadmills have evolved beyond the basic models of the past. Today's options range from manual, muscle-powered machines to high-tech, AI-driven training systems. Understanding the difference between treadmills will help you make an informed decision based on your needs. Start by identifying your fitness goals. For example, if you typically walk or do light jogging, you can opt for a basic model with a lower-speed motor and minimal features. With the right treadmill, every step brings you closer to your fitness goals.
Folding Treadmills
Folding treadmills are a game-changer for apartment dwellers, casual walkers, light runners and people who crave flexibility in their home gym setup. If you're working with limited space, a foldable unit lets you easily transition the space to add extra exercises like lunges and side shuffles. When you shop with the right provider, these machines come with impressive specs, like an incline range of up to 20% and various weight capacities. These models are designed for easy storage, allowing you to reclaim your living area between workouts. Pros include:
- Space-saving design — ideal for smaller homes
- Sturdy build with solid performance
- Easy to move and store thanks to built-in folding mechanisms
Non-Folding Treadmills
For those serious about running or who want a rock-solid machine, non-folding treadmills are the way to go. Premium range machines feature speeds up to 12.5 miles per hour (mph) and up to 18% incline. You can also enjoy optional extras like bottle pockets, speakers or a four-wheel mobility system. Non-folding treadmills are often used in physical therapy, helping patients with injury rehabilitation and reducing the risk of repeated injury. They are often found in commercial gyms because they offer superior durability and stability. Runners love them because they:
- Are stable, which makes them ideal for intense workouts
- Feature powerful motors with higher speed and incline options
- Are built for longevity, easily lasting for years without major maintenance
Manual Treadmills
Forget motors. Manual treadmills rely entirely on your effort. The belt moves as fast as you do, which means no speed settings — just pure, self-propelled movement. That makes these machines great for athletes focusing on strength and endurance. Some models feature Bluetooth connectivity, corrosion-resistant hardware or consoles to help you track your progress. Consider this treadmill if you:
- Want to burn more calories since it requires full engagement
- Want more of a full-body experience
- Need a machine that doesn't rely on electricity
- Need a machine that is safe to use for most ages and physical abilities
iFit Enabled Treadmills
Do you thrive on motivation? iFit-enabled treadmills bring personal coaching right into your home. These machines sync with iFit's virtual training programs, offering you everything from scenic global runs to trainer-led workouts. Instead of running in place, these treadmills transform our workouts, giving you a fun run with a little competition as you can access a live leaderboard and other community features to keep you inspired. With these treadmills, you get:
- Access to thousands of interactive workouts
- Adaptive training that adjusts incline and speed for a personalized experience
- Excitement and variety to your treadmill routine
Touchscreen Treadmills
Step into the future of home fitness with touchscreen treadmills. They take convenience and entertainment to the next level with high-definition displays, built-in apps and streaming capabilities, turning your workout into a multimedia experience. If you like tracking metrics like your heart rate, calories and distance covered, touchscreen is a must-have. Benefits include:
- Large screens for an immersive experience
- Streaming apps like YouTube or interactive fitness programs
- App integration like Zwift, Garmin and others
Get Your Ideal Machine From The Treadmill Factory
Regularly using a treadmill can help improve your heart health, manage your weight and build muscle. Now that you understand the nuances of the different kinds of treadmills, choosing the right one is about finding a balance between your space, budget and fitness aspirations. Whether you are chasing marathon dreams, looking for a space-saving option or wanting a high-tech experience, a perfect treadmill is waiting for you.
The Treadmill Factory has all the necessary equipment and fitness accessories to fuel your workout routine. We stock a diverse range of cardio machines, including all of the above-mentioned treadmills from the top brands in the industry. Explore our extensive selection to find the machine that meets your needs. Visit your nearest store today or browse our online selection. Alternatively, call us at 888-469-3031 to speak to a member of our highly trained team.
