Best Treadmill For Heavy People – 2024

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Last Updated: April 25, 2024

Whether you’re needing a treadmill with a high weight limit or you’re just looking for a treadmill that’s solid and durable, we’re here to help! When I see a heavy weight capacity of 300-400 lbs on a treadmill, that tells me it should be well-constructed and sturdy without even setting foot on it. 400 lbs is usually the heaviest weight limit available on motorized treadmills. You can typically expect models with limits up to this to be large, durable machines, too. We’ve put together this list of the best treadmills for heavy people after testing several models with high limits. So, check out our list below to find the best one for you, and keep reading to learn about other factors to consider before buying.

Why You Should Trust Us

Fitness and exercise equipment should be accessible to everyone. Fortunately, just as people come in all shapes and sizes, so do treadmills. When it comes to treadmills we’ve tested, we’ve used all kinds of treadmills from small to large and under-desk to commercial. Our team also varies in size and height from 5’1” all the way up to 6’5”, so we have a unique ability to help people of pretty much all sizes find equipment, including treadmills, that works the best for them. So, when searching for the best treadmill for heavy people, you can trust that we’ve spent time on the models that we recommend. Many of these models are also found on our best treadmills list because they’re solid machines that we recommend to most people.

Here Are The Best Treadmills For Heavy People

• Best Treadmill For Heavy People Overall: Sole F80 Treadmill
• Best Budget Treadmill For Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
• Best Treadmill For Heavy Runners: Sole F85 Treadmill
• Best High-End Manual Treadmill For Heavy People: AssaultRunner Elite
• Best 400 lb Weight Capacity Treadmill: Sole TT8 Treadmill
• Best Manual Treadmill For Heavy Athletes: TrueForm Runner
• Best Incline Treadmill For Heavy People: NordicTrack X22i
• Best Under Desk Treadmill For Heavy People: LifeSpan TR5000 Under Desk Treadmill
• Best Commercial Treadmill For Heavy People: Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill

Best Treadmills For Heavy People – Our Top Recommendations

We’ve hand-selected our picks for the best treadmills for heavy people that we think you should consider.

1. Best Treadmill For Heavy People Overall: Sole F80 Treadmill

The best treadmill for heavy people overall is the Sole F80. We’ve determined that based on construction quality, ease of use, features, and the 350 lb weight limit that this treadmill is not only stable and appropriate for most people but it’s a great value for the price, too. Sole also helps to instill confidence in the design with the included lifetime frame and motor warranty.

In addition to the nice weight capacity, the F80 has a large 22” wide by 60” long deck to accommodate most running strides. Its 3.5 HP motor handles heavy use like long-distance training, too. The F80 also goes up to 12 mph and inclines up to 15 different levels so you have a lot of speed and grade to choose from. Beyond the hearty motor and training variables, the steel frame and low-profile deck make the F80 a substantial treadmill to use. It’s large and heavy-duty. Fortunately, if you’re say a 300 lb person this is the best folding treadmill with that high weight capacity. There are also 4 transportation wheels so when it’s folded it isn’t very hard to move, even though it does weigh 274 lbs.

The Sole F80 Treadmill comes with a 10” touch screen and a lot of content options. From included workout programs and fitness tests to 12 preloaded streaming apps like Netflix and screen mirroring from your phone, there are all kinds of thoughtful features on the F80.

Head over to our full review of the Sole F80 Treadmill to learn more.

2. Best Budget Treadmill For Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

Heavy-duty treadmills of large size and large weight capacities do come with higher price tags than small compact treadmills. An excellent buy for the quality, size, and 375 lb weight limit is the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill. This large, running treadmill is our pick for the best budget treadmill for heavy people because of this. It also doesn’t hurt that the construction is backed by a lifetime frame and motor warranty.

Even though the 7.8 AT is sizable, it has a folding deck and 2 transportation wheels for when you need to move it. Having the deck fold up out of the way makes it fit better in more homes. It’s a good idea to have a spot for this treadmill to stay in your home though because it weighs 330 lbs. The 4.0 HP motor is quiet and quick to adjust so if you like interval training on treadmills, this is the one to pick. It is one of the fastest-adjusting treadmills we’ve tested. It also comes with the Sprint 8 interval training program included on the LED screen for structured training.

The 22” wide and 60” long deck accommodates all stride lengths and the belt moves up to 12 mph for a nice speed range. With the 15% max incline in the deck, you can fire up your posterior chain, too! The cushioning in the deck has good shock absorption to not feel too soft or too firm for those who are looking to lessen the impact on their joints, too.

Head over to our full review of the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill to learn more.

3.Best Treadmill For Heavy Runners: Sole F85 Treadmill

The best treadmill for heavy runners is the Sole F85. This treadmill has everything a runner could want and need. The deck is large and accommodating for all running strides, the 375 lb weight limit handles most people, and the 4.0 HP motor is ideal for heavy distance training.

The Sole F85 is a quiet home treadmill with a 22” wide and 60” long running surface. The deck has a low profile which makes it easy to step on and off of, as well as great for more ceiling heights in homes. The deck’s cushioning has shock absorption with a firm feeling underfoot making it great for road runners and those training for an outdoor event.

While running on the F85, you have plenty of options to keep you entertained and help keep your runs structured. You can of course just hop on and go, but the included workout programs and fitness tests are a nice option to have. Plus, there’s the ability to create your own custom workouts and save them. The console has a good-sized 15.6” touch screen that comes with 12 preloaded streaming apps and the ability to pair your phone to mirror content on the screen. The streaming apps include Netflix, Hulu, Youtube, Prime Video, Spotify, and Peacock, among others.

Head over to our full review of the Sole F85 Treadmill to learn more.

4. Best High-End Manual Treadmill For Heavy People: AssaultRunner Elite

Curved, manual treadmills are great if you are looking for a treadmill for your garage gym, or if you want a treadmill without a max speed that’s low-maintenance. The AssaultRunner Elite takes the award as the best high-end manual treadmill for heavy people because it has a design that’s suitable for most people. It’s also a 400 lb capacity treadmill.

What makes manual treadmills great for running is their curved decks. The AssaultRunner Elite has a slight curve that is easy to get up to speed while using it. Since there isn’t a motor, the slat belt’s pace is controlled by your legs so the belt moves as fast as you can. The slat belt has 62 rubberized slats that absorb the shock when your feet hit the deck. It feels firm to run on while providing some impact absorption.

The belt is 17” wide and 65” long so it’s great for all running strides. The narrow belt helps keep you in alignment while running, too. The AssaultRunner Elite is the premium manual treadmill from the brand. Its impressive steel construction makes for a solid running experience and smooth moving belt. The console is also battery-powered so you don’t have to worry about plugging the AssaultRunner in.

Head over to our full review of the AssaultRunner Elite Treadmill to learn more.

5. Best 400 lb Weight Capacity Treadmill: Sole TT8 Treadmill

A commercial-grade option from Sole Fitness is the Sole TT8 Treadmill. This treadmill is also our pick for the best 400 lb weight capacity treadmill on this list. Along with incredible construction, the TT8 has a large 22” x 60” deck and 3” belt rollers to smoothly move the belt. The 4.0 HP motor is durable with a 12 mph max speed, 15 levels of incline, and 6 levels of decline.

This non-folding treadmill is rated for home and light commercial use. The motor also features a 10 lb flywheel to keep it smooth and consistent while adjusting. There’s also an additional motor to operate the incline and decline in the deck. The reinforced frame and high-powered motor are also backed by lifetime warranties.

The Sole TT8 comes with a 15.6” touch screen and 12 preloaded streaming apps that you can just log into your respective account for and start watching. There’s no additional subscription fee required, which we really appreciate. Plus, there are onboard workout programs to follow along with or the ability to create your own. Another aspect that we love about the TT8 is that you get all of this packed into a commercial-quality design for a nice price.

Head over to our full review of the Sole TT8 Treadmill to learn more.

6. Best Manual Treadmill For Heavy Athletes: TrueForm Runner

Another excellent curved manual treadmill option is the TrueForm Runner. This treadmill is practically indestructible and capable of handling all-day use in commercial settings. It’s also low-maintenance because it’s non-motorized. You also can’t beat the 700 lb walking weight limit and 450 lb running weight limit!

This treadmill is especially ideal for sports athletes because of the customizable slat belt. Not only with the belt move as fast as you can, for an unlimited max speed, but it can be purchased with different materials. It comes in the standard rubberized slat-belt design, as well as turf and rubberized track. This is so you can train in your track spikes or cleats on the TrueForm Runner. It’s for this reason that we love recommending the TrueForm Runner as the best manual treadmill for heavy athletes. That, and the incredible weight capacity, makes it perfect for most people.

What makes a TrueForm a TrueForm is the shallow curved deck. This minimal curve is proven to help promote proper running mechanics and to encourage a forefoot and midfoot strike. Heel strikers like me will probably find they fatigue faster, but if you want to work on improving your gait, the TrueForm Runner is one to check out.

Head over to our full review of the TrueForm Runner Treadmill to learn more.

7. Best Incline Treadmill For Heavy People: NordicTrack X22i

The NordicTrack X22i Incline Trainer has an impressive 40% incline and -6% decline. This is the highest incline and decline we’ve seen on treadmills. That is why we’ve given the X22i the award for the best incline treadmill for heavy people. Considering the deck goes all the way up to 40%, the 400 lb weight limit is a nice component of the construction. It isn’t the heaviest weight limit on this list, but for this treadmill’s capabilities, it makes for a heavy-duty design.

The X22i has a quiet 4.0 HP motor and a 12 mph max speed. The deck provides ample room for running and hiking 22” in width and 60” in length. The deck also features soft cushioning that is great for those with joint issues and discomfort. In fact, this treadmill has some of the most forgiving deck cushioning we’ve used on treadmills.

The NordicTrack X22i has a large 22” touch screen that offers streaming from iFit. iFit is a complete training platform that features trainer-led workouts filmed indoors and outdoors. The outdoor classes are impressive and let you follow instructors through remote locations literally on every continent on Earth. Plus, in each iFit workout, the X22i will automatically adjust for hands-free training.

Head over to our full review of the NordicTrack X22i Treadmill to learn more.

8. Best Under Desk Treadmill For Heavy People: LifeSpan TR5000 Under Desk Treadmill

The best under-desk treadmill for heavy people goes to the LifeSpan TR5000. This treadmill is also at the top of our best under-desk treadmills list. What makes this treadmill impressive is its high-quality construction and 400 lb weight limit. Most people can use this under their standing desk to get in some steps while they work.

The LifeSpan TR5000 includes a 3.0 HP motor that’s rated for up to 9 hours of use per day. This treadmill is specifically designed for use under a standing desk because it doesn’t include any handles or uprights. It also has a max speed of 4 mph. This speed range is great for all walking paces since most people tend to walk slower while working at their desk including us.

We love how quiet this treadmill is to use and that the deck offers enough room for most people. The deck is 20” wide and 50” long to give you plenty of room for walking. It is also a good size to fit under most adjustable desks, too. The console sits on your desk so you can adjust the treadmill and track your metrics conveniently as well.

Head over to our full review of the LifeSpan TR5000 Under Desk Treadmill to learn more.

9. Best Commercial Treadmill For Heavy People: Freemotion t22.9 Reflex

A commercial treadmill is rated for all-day use in settings like public gyms. They can also be found in smaller studios and homes as well. The Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill is an impressive treadmill that’s the preferred treadmill used at Orangetheory Fitness Studios. It also comes with a 400 lb weight limit, so that’s why we’ve named it the best commercial treadmill for heavy people.

The 5.0 AC motor is specifically designed to handle foot traffic seen in gyms. It is powerful and great for long distances and all-day use. The Reflex also goes up to 15 mph and has a 15% incline. It does require a 20-amp 120-volt circuit to plug it in, so keep this in mind. It also doesn’t fold and weighs a whopping 619 lbs, so we recommend using it on a ground floor in a designated space.

We love the deck cushioning. It is forgiving and great for those with joint issues. It’s also spacious at 21.5” wide and 60” long. This paired with the double-layered belt and 3.5” deck rollers makes for a durable design. The Reflex Treadmill also features a 22” touch screen and iFit streaming to keep you and/or your clients engaged while working out. We recommend checking this treadmill out if you’re looking for a commercial treadmill for yourself or your studio gym.

Head over to our full review of the Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill to learn more.

Finding The Best Treadmill For Your Weight

Best Treadmills With A 400 lb Weight Capacity

If you’re looking for the best treadmill for a 400 lb person, check out these models below.

• NordicTrack X22i Incline Treadmill
• AssaultRunner Elite
• Sole TT8 Treadmill
• TrueForm Runner
• LifeSpan TR5000 Under Desk Treadmill
• Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill

Best Treadmills With A 350 lb Weight Capacity

If you’re looking for the best treadmill for a 350 lb person, check out these models below.

• Sole F80 Treadmill
• Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
• Sole F85 Treadmill

Factors To Keep In Mind When Buying The Best Treadmill For Heavy People

There are some things to consider when purchasing the best treadmill for a heavy person beyond the weight limit. Check out these factors below.

Weight Capacity

Of course, you should check the weight capacity if you’re looking for a treadmill to make sure it will support you. Some treadmills only come with 200-250 lb limits so they’re not ideal for a lot of people. Typically on motorized treadmills 400 lbs is the highest limit we see, and some manual treadmills offer a higher amount. Treadmills with high-weight capacities are usually larger machines that have great construction so whether you’re concerned about the limit working for you, or if you just want a solid treadmill, you’ll most likely get both when purchasing a high-capacity machine.

Training Goals

Another factor to consider is what you want to use the treadmill for. Are you looking to just walk, walk and run, or train for long distances? Treadmills come with different motor sizes and deck sizes to support different use. For running we recommend motors of 3-4.0 HP. These motors typically handle a lot of use. Motors of 2-3.0 HP are usually best for walking and some jogging. We’ve also found in our testing that 60” long decks are best for all running stride lengths.

Treadmills also have different max speeds, inclines, and some even decline. You want to be sure that the training capabilities will work for you.

Your Home

It’s imperative that whichever treadmill you decide to buy fits in the space where you intend to use it. Some high-weight capacity treadmills fold while others don’t, so you’ll want to be sure that whichever one you take home works for you and your space. Floor space and ceiling height are both important as many treadmills incline. Factoring in the step-up height, incline range, and your height is a great way to help determine that you’ll have enough head clearance to use the treadmill.

Also, some treadmills are heavy and are not meant to be used on upper-level floors. You’ll want to check out the weight as well as the size, too.

Content

Although it isn’t the most important factor, content can range greatly on treadmills. Some come with touch screens that offer subscription content, while others have less tech and more basic features. Checking out the content that the treadmill comes with is a good idea to make sure the features are what you prefer that way you can take home a treadmill that you’ll love and use regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are treadmills good for obese people?

Treadmills are a great piece of cardio exercise equipment for most people. The fact that you can adjust and control their speed for different walking, jogging, and running paces makes them adaptable for most people, no matter their size or fitness level. Treadmills also come with different weight capacities to be more accessible to users.

What happens if you are too heavy for a treadmill?

If you purchase a treadmill that has a lower weight capacity than you, it could impact the longevity of the machine. This could cause problems with the motor, like overheating, and cause the treadmill to break and not work. It’s important to make sure the weight capacity is appropriate for you.

What is the highest weight capacity for a treadmill?

The highest weight capacity that we normally see on motorized treadmills is 400 lbs. Some manual treadmills, like the TrueForm Runner, have a higher 450 lb capacity while running and a 700 lb capacity while walking.