Best Treadmills for Serious Runners 2025 – PR Worthy Runs

NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

Sole F85 Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $2,399
• ManufacturerSole
• TypeFolding

Best Price at Sole

85

We think the Sole F85’s upgraded console, sturdy deck, and impressive durability make it a great option for heavy runners and runners of all abilities.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  9

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  8

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like:

• Powerful 4.0 HP motor
• 375-lb weight capacity
• Folding frame
• 15.6” touchscreen
• Onboard programs and apps
• Lifetime frame and motor warranty
• Firm cushioning mimics road-running

Areas For Improvement:

• Non-adjustable touchscreen
• Less cushioned than the 2450

Sole has long been one of our favorite manufacturers of durable, quality treadmills, and the F85 is a great representative of the brand. It has a commendable 375 lb weight limit, so it’s the best treadmill for heavy runners on this list. With this limit, the F85 can work for most people.

Another awesome element of the F85 is the 4.0 HP motor, which supports a speed range from 0.5 to 12 mph. It has large rollers for consistent, quiet belt motion and firm deck cushioning that resembles road running outdoors. It has 15 levels of incline and 6 levels of decline. You’ll want to train for your next race on the Sole F85.

The Sole F85 has a 15.6” touchscreen with training programs and fitness tests to help keep your runs structured and engaging. Another great way to keep yourself engaged on the F85 is by streaming from the 12 preloaded apps. These apps include Netflix, Hulu, Max, Amazon Prime Video, and Spotify – to name a few.

If the apps aren’t enough, you can screen mirror your phone to the screen to watch whatever you want. There is a wireless charging pad below the screen to charge your compatible phone and a device rack above the screen to put your phone or larger tablet. The content options are limitless.

All of these features pair well with the overall construction of the Sole F85. It is a hearty treadmill built to last and covered by a lifetime frame and motor warranty. It is also quiet to use in most homes, so you won’t disrupt others.

So, whether you’re a heavy runner looking for a treadmill that will keep up with you or just looking for a solid and durable running treadmill, we highly recommend the Sole F85.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F85.

Interested in the Sole F85?

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NordicTrack X24 Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $3,999
• ManufacturerNordicTrack
• Typenon-folding

Best Price at NordicTrack

90

For the trail runner and the runner who isn’t afraid of hills, the NordicTrack X24 Treadmill offers a challenge unlike any other.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  10

• Specs / Features

  9

• Dimensions / Storability

  5

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  9

• Build Quality

  9

What We Like:

• -6% to 40% incline range
• Automatic speed and incline adjustments with iFIT
• Soft cushioning
• Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify, and more
• 24” (pivot and tilt) touchscreen
• 400-lb weight capacity

Areas For Improvement:

• Non-folding frame
• Limited features without iFIT

I love training with the NordicTrack X24. It’s a treadmill I use regularly because it has excellent cushioning, a large touchscreen, and an incredible incline range. It’s the treadmill I’m drawn to when I want to replace trail running, but it’s also a good treadmill for fast workouts, as I don’t have to worry about hitting the motor hood.

You can run your long runs and fast runs on this treadmill. It has a 12 mph maximum speed and a 4.25 CHP motor. The motor is responsive, so you get up to speed and to your incline settings quickly. It also keeps the experience of using iFIT feeling very fun and immersive.

iFIT is a subscription-based training platform that costs $39/month. You need an active membership to use most of the X24’s features. If you do not subscribe to iFIT, you at least have to make a free iFIT account to train in manual mode. iFIT gives you access to thousands of video workouts and several entertainment apps that you can stream while training.

I recommend the X24 for runners who want top-notch incline features and a training service with coach-guided workouts.

Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack X24 Treadmill.

Interested in the NordicTrack X24 Treadmill?

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Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $2,699
• ManufacturerHorizon
• TypeFolding

Best Price at Horizon

75

The Horizon 7.8 AT’s fast speed and incline adjustments keep you on pace for your toughest workouts.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  7

• Build Quality

  7

What We Like:

• 4.0 HP motor
• Sprint 8 programming
• Spacious 22” x 60” running surface
• Intuitive speed and incline dials
• Folding frame
• 15% maximum incline

Areas For Improvement:

• Low-tech console
• No built-in video training programs

Horizon makes quality treadmills with specific features that are excellent for HIIT training. Their premium model, the Horizon 7.8 AT, has a quick-adjusting 4.0 HP motor, making it superb for HIIT training. In our testing, this motor gets up to speed faster than others we’ve used, so when you want to jump from high to low speed and incline levels, the 7.8 AT can do it.

Another aspect that makes the 7.8 AT convenient for HIIT is the quick-dial adjustment buttons. These blue rollers on the console allow you to scroll to your desired speed and incline level quickly. There are also programmable interval keys and quick-adjust buttons.

The console is simple with an LCD screen, so it isn’t as fancy or high-tech as others on this list, but for those who prefer simplicity, we recommend this treadmill. The Horizon 7.8 AT includes onboard workout programs and the Sprint 8 training program for structured HIIT workouts.

This beefy treadmill is foldable and has a large 22” wide and 60” long deck. Its 375-lb weight limit makes it ideal for most runners, too. If you need to move it, you can do so with the transportation wheels, although this treadmill is 330 lbs and is best kept in a specific space in your home.

Overall, the Horizon 7.8 AT has a lot to offer. It’s comfortable with good deck cushioning, has a well-powered, quick-adjusting motor, and is quiet.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.8 AT.

Interested in the Horizon 7.8 AT?

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Aviron Victory Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $3,499
• ManufacturerAviron
• Typenon-folding

Best Price at Aviron

83

If you think running is awful and treadmill training is boring, the Aviron Victory Treadmill is worth checking out. Its gamified training platform is refreshing and helps the minutes tick by quickly.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  9

• Specs / Features

  9

• Dimensions / Storability

  6

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  9

• Build Quality

  7

What We Like:

• Workouts that feel like games
• Several entertainment apps
• Adjustable motor responsiveness
• Incline and speed switches
• Low-profile deck
• Pre-waxed belt
• 22” touchscreen

Areas For Improvement:

• Non-folding
• Bulky motor hood

While I was testing the Aviron Victory Treadmill, it was really important to me to determine whether the Victory Treadmill’s workouts scaled for runners of different abilities. Fortunately, I was impressed. I’m a 3:03 marathoner, and the workouts were hard enough for me to create a tempo or marathon pace run. There were also easier levels and at least one harder level for most games.

As a runner, I also like a treadmill that has speed and incline switches that are easy to use when I’m running fast. The Victory Treadmill’s switches are pretty easy to use, and the speed shortcut keys should be programmable in the future (if they aren’t already).

The only thing that detracted from my run was that I occasionally hit the prominent motor hood. Admittedly, I run fairly close to the console, so it may not affect all runners equally. The deck is also not as cushioned as other treadmills on this list (the NordicTracks and Horizons), but I like a firm treadmill for fast running. It just depends on your preference.

Training on the Aviron Victory Treadmill is best when you subscribe to the training platform. You can race against other Aviron members, collaborate to fight enemies, and play solo games, earning points to buy new avatars and backgrounds. It’s a lot of fun, but there are also many entertainment apps and trainer-led video workouts.

Overall, I recommend the Aviron Victory Treadmill for runners interested in a unique gamified training platform to switch up their training.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Aviron Victory Treadmill.

Interested in the Aviron Victory Treadmill?

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Sole ST90 Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $3,999
• ManufacturerSole
• Typenon-folding

Best Price at Sole

80

The Sole ST90 has a rubberized slat belt that allows you to disengage the motor and train in free mode—a rare feature to find, especially at this price point!

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  5

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  8

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like:

• Slat belt cushioning
• Free mode for manual training
• No motor hood
• No subscription required
• Onboard workouts and apps
• Powerful AC motor

Areas For Improvement:

• You can feel vibrations from the motor underfoot
• Shorter warranty than other Sole models

I recently did a bit of gait retraining to improve my running form, and I needed a treadmill that let me push the belt with one leg. I was working on my glute activation to help increase my forward lean. The Sole ST90 was the perfect option because you can turn on free mode and power the belt manually. You can also incline the treadmill in this mode and walk.
As for motorized training, the Sole is still a great option because it doesn’t require a subscription but has almost all the features of a subscription treadmill. The console is a 15.6” touchscreen that offers trainer-led video classes, entertainment apps, and even screen mirroring. I’m a huge fan!
The cushioning of the slat belt is a little divisive. I like the rubbery surface. It feels more forgiving but doesn’t offer much energy return. There’s no spring or bounce to this deck at all, which can make it feel harder to run on. I like running fast on it, though, the rubbery surface reminds me a little of running on a track.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole ST90.

Interested in the Sole ST90 Treadmill?

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Bowflex T9 Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $1,599
• ManufacturerBowflex
• TypeFolding

Best Price at Bowflex

70

The Bowflex T9 is priced right and designed well for miles and miles of running.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  7

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  9

• Build Quality

  7

What We Like:

• Quiet performance
• Lifetime frame and motor warranty
• 15% maximum incline
• Fully optional subscription
• Support for third-party apps
• Tablet rack

Areas For Improvement:

• Bluetooth connectivity could be better
• Top tablet rack could be more secure

The T9 was the first treadmill to come out of Bowflex after it was acquired by Horizon’s parent company. I like seeing the influences of both companies on this machine, as they each brought their best. The speed and incline dials are a Horizon staple, and I love them on the T9. The T9 is JRNY compatible, as one would expect from a Bowflex, but it doesn’t overly push the platform.

Like with the Sole ST90 above, I found a way to use the T9 to improve my running form. The red line down the center of the belt is a helpful guideline for runners who have too narrow of a step width and tend to cross over. I also like that the cushioning is moderate: not too soft or too firm.

For training, I use the built-in programs or an app. The T9 works great with JRNY, Zwift, and Peloton. Though the top tablet rack shakes a little too much, I still really enjoy using this treadmill with my phone or tablet for additional training and entertainment content.

I recommend the T9 for runners who want a powerful treadmill that’s reasonably priced and compatible with third-party apps.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Bowflex T9.

Interested in the Bowflex T9?

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TrueForm Runner Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $6,899
• ManufacturerTrueForm
• TypeManual

Best Price at TrueForm

82

The TrueForm Runner supports up to 450-lb weight capacity, suiting everyone from the smallest runners to the brawniest athletes.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  6

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like

• 450-lb weight limit
• Customizable color and running surface
• 20-year frame warranty
• Simple and effective display
• Promotes efficient running form
• Unlimited speed
• No electricity required
• Heavy-duty construction

Areas For Improvement:

• Very heavy
• Minimal console
• Not as beginner-friendly as others

The TrueForm Runner is one of our favorite manual treadmills because it is customizable! Athletes who play a sport on turf can opt for a colored turf surface on the slats, and track runners can get a track surface instead of the default rubber slats. The TrueForm Runner can also be painted to match your gym or training facility or branded with your favorite team logo.

The TrueForm Runner has a gentler curve than most manual treadmills to promote efficient running form. Athletes can burn up to 44% more calories on a manual treadmill since the belt is completely dependent on the speed of the runner for propulsion. Sloppy running makes running even harder on this treadmill, but good form makes it easier.

The TrueForm Runner helps improve running form and makes for a challenging workout. You can’t hide at the top of the deck, hugging the console for support. The slats won’t maintain an even speed unless you move back to the center of the curved deck, encouraging many runners to adopt a midfoot running strike.

Unlike motorized treadmills, where you have to tap a button and then wait for the speed to adjust, on a manual treadmill, the belt will speed up or slow down at the same time you do, for a more natural feel. Thus, the TrueForm Runner is an excellent tool for HIIT training. Just come prepared with a training plan because the console does not have many onboard programs.

Click here to read our detailed review of the TrueForm Runner.

Interested in the TrueForm Runner?

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Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $2,100
• ManufacturerHorizon
• TypeFolding

Best Price at Horizon

68

The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill’s low price and impressive performance will entice any runner on a budget.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  6

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  7

• Build Quality

  6

What We Like:

• Budget-friendly
• 20” x 60” running surface
• 12 mph
• 15% maximum incline
• Folding frame
• Onboard workouts
• Support for Apple Watches

Areas For Improvement:

• Not ideal for high mileage

The Horizon 7.0 A is the treadmill to check out if you’re looking for the best budget treadmill for running. At right around $1000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great price for a road runner or trail runner who wants an indoor alternative for rainy days.

The Horizon 7.0 AT has a quick-adjusting 3.0 HP motor, so it will handle your interval training and never keep you waiting for it to adjust. The quiet motor supports a 12 mph max speed and 15% incline. Considering how affordable this treadmill is, we love how fast and high the deck moves!

The 7.0 AT feels comfortable to run on. The deck cushioning provides moderate shock without feeling bouncy absorption on par with higher-end treadmills. The console is simple, with an LCD screen and 4 LED windows to show your workout metrics. The programs are standard, like ones you’d find on a commercial treadmill at your local gym.

The console also connects to other apps like Zwift to give you more training options. Plus, there’s a device rack at the top of the console for you to stream content from your phone or tablet. So, if you’re looking for a straightforward treadmill with a few extra training options, this is one to check out.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT.

Interested in the Horizon 7.0 AT?

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Peloton Tread

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $2,995
• ManufacturerPeloton
• Typenon-folding

Best Price at Peloton

75

Want to run your workouts indoors? The Peloton Tread is excellent for speed work.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  6

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  8

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like:

• Live and on-demand trainer-led studio classes
• Lanebreak game
• Live leaderboard
• Waterfall deck design
• Speed and incline roller knobs
• Impressive tech features

Areas For Improvement:

• Doesn’t fold
• Limited features without a Peloton subscription

I’m obsessed with this treadmill, but only because I’m obsessed with the Peloton instructors. Sure, the treadmill is great, but what keeps me loyal to the Peloton Tread for many workouts is jumping into a live or on-demand class and getting encouragement from the trainer. I love climbing the leaderboard—it’s great for you competitive runners out there!

There are a few things you should be aware of before you commit to the Peloton Tread. For one, do not buy this treadmill unless you are sure about subscribing to Peloton. You can’t do much without an active membership. Also, the treadmill does not fold. It needs a dedicated space, as it takes up more room and is a little more difficult to move.

But I hope you can find room for this treadmill. Peloton has more than just trainer-led classes. The Lanebreak game is a lot of fun. There are also scenic workouts and entertainment apps. I love reading my Kindle while I walk or run with the built-in app.

I recommend this treadmill for runners who like the competitive and motivating nature of Peloton workouts and plan to subscribe long term.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Peloton Tread.

Interested in the Peloton Tread?

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What to Consider when Buying a Treadmill for Running

Runners have specific needs that include power, size, and cushioning. Here’s a quick list of things to look for if you are in the market for a treadmill for running.

Enough Motor Power For Running

A small motor works fine for walking, but runners need a strong motor to power long distances and fast speeds. Motor power is paramount for marathoners, sprinters, or those who do HIIT. We recommend a motor that is at least 3.0HP for running and jogging. Closer to 4.0HP is better if you plan to do long distances, have multiple users, or are training daily for a race or event.

Enough Speed For Your Run

Smaller treadmills usually have a top speed of 10 mph (a 6-minute mile). If you run faster than this, then you’ll want something with a top speed closer to 12mph. Most motorized residential treadmills do not go faster than 12.5 mph. Check out a manual treadmill like a Woodway or TrueFit Runner if you want unlimited speed. This type of treadmill will go as fast as you can run.

Response Time

The response time is how quickly the treadmill reacts when you change a speed or incline setting. For those who enjoy sprints or HIIT intervals, a 3-5 second lag between settings may be too long. However, most treadmills are fine for steady-state runs with periodic adjustments.

We’ve found the most responsive motors are on the new Nordictrack treadmills (since they just upgraded the incline tech) and the Horizon 7.0-7.8AT lineup. These respond the fastest to incremental adjustments.

Incline and Hill Training

Training on an incline helps strengthen your leg muscles for a more balanced musculature when running. Newer treadmills with subscription programming include options such as hiking or trail running. NordicTrack and ProForm treadmills that feature iFIT offer outdoor hikes led by a personal trainer for a high-intensity but low-impact workout on your non-running days.

Finding An Affordable Treadmill For Running

Most of us have to factor price into any large purchase. Sure, you can spend a lot and get all the fancy features, but most buyers want to find the best—and most affordable—treadmill that will suit their needs. Our reviews provide a breakdown of both affordability and durability so you can evaluate what you really need and want on your treadmill.

Size of the Deck

It is important to have a running surface large enough to support a healthy running gait. Our treadmills are evaluated based on how much room they provide the runner (not just how big the machine is). Look for a running deck that is at least 20” x 60” long. Treadmills that are 55” long will work for walkers or those with shorter running strides.

Cushioning

Cushioning drastically impacts your treadmill runs. If you run long distances, cushioning helps absorb some of the impact that can be hard on your joints and spine over time. Larger runners will appreciate a bit more cushioning. The Nordictrack 2450 offers enough cushioning to keep you comfortable while its bounciness reduces the energy lost in your running stride.

Alternatively, firm cushioning replicates the experience of running on the road. If you will only run on the treadmill while training for a road race, a firm treadmill could help you prepare better. Firm cushioning also gives runners a sturdy platform to push off of at faster speeds.

Apps and Training Features

How do you like to train? Do you use Zwift? Do you prefer a subscription with classes and content?

Some treadmills have full-color touchscreens, while others are relatively simple with preloaded training programs. Not all runners want to pay for a subscription, so consider your budget and preferred training style before choosing a treadmill with a subscription service. Any treadmill that requires a subscription will also require wifi, so you’ll need a good internet connection.

Noise Output

When running indoors, noise matters! If you live upstairs from a neighbor or have a family or roommates, the noise of your treadmill may limit when and how often you can use it. Consider how noisy a treadmill is if you plan to train indoors. We include noise output in our reviews to help with this.

Roller Size and Belt Texture

Most people probably don’t think about the treadmill roller size, but it matters. The rollers move the belt along the surface of the deck. If the rollers are small, there is more tension and friction on the belt. It can wear out faster and have performance problems. Look for rollers that are close to or larger than 2.0”.

The belt texture affects how the belt feels underfoot, so we recommend a gently textured 2-ply belt for durability. A textured treadmill belt gives you plenty of traction for running fast and up a steep incline.

Warranty/Durability

Running requires a durable treadmill to support the high impact and strain on the motor. We recommend treadmills with at least a 5-year frame and motor warranty. A 10-year warranty indicates that it is designed to last. If it has a limited 1-year warranty, we recommend caution if you plan to use it for running.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Running On A Treadmill Make You A Better Runner?

Running on a treadmill can make you a better runner. There are a few reasons for this:

Runners who own a treadmill can run more often.

A powerful treadmill allows runners to train at any time of day or night. It is an excellent solution if you work long hours, have kids or other responsibilities, or live in an area where weather limits training part of the year. Runners with treadmills can continue to train when gyms and running clubs are closed. A treadmill allows runners to run more miles conveniently in their homes.

Motorized treadmills have preset speed settings

Rather than pushing yourself to hold a certain speed, a motorized treadmill can challenge you to keep up with a set pace. It is a great training tool for improving your speed or time. Eventually, your body will be able to hold the pace with practice and improved conditioning. Forget your watch—you can trust your treadmill to keep you on track!

Treadmills allow for a greater range of incline training

If you are training for an outdoor event with lots of hills but live in a flat location, it can be hard to get the proper training done. A treadmill allows you to build a route that will be challenging (or easy!) and provide the right training. Rather than drive to a set location for hill training every morning, just hop on your treadmill and adjust the incline! It’s safer and more accessible.

A cushioned treadmill will allow you to train longer without getting injured

Running is high-impact. Even young, fit runners can suffer stress fractures or shin splints from too much outdoor running. Most treadmills provide a modest amount of cushioning because they are inherently softer than asphalt or concrete. Higher-end treadmills offer more cushioning, allowing you to reduce your injury risk.

What Treadmills Are Best For Serious Runners?

Our list above outlines our take on the best treadmills for serious runners. However, the type of running you plan to do will influence which treadmill is best for you. We recommend finding a treadmill with at least a 3.5 HP motor and a 20” x 60” running surface, especially if you plan to do all of your training indoors.

If you are a sprinter, look for a treadmill with a top speed at least equivalent to your fastest pace. Serious runners need power, size, and cushioning. The type of training provided on the treadmill also matters.

Are Treadmills Good For Running?

Running on a treadmill can be better than running outdoors. It is safer, more cushioned, and doable at any time of day. As long as the treadmill has sufficient motor power and is large enough to support your stride, a treadmill can be an excellent training tool for runners.

Outdoor runners often find treadmills to be debilitatingly boring. Video content can make a big difference. Many of the newer treadmills include video content filmed outdoors. Larger screens that fill the console make it feel like you are actually on the road. Additionally, smart treadmills incline and adjust speed automatically, allowing you to run hands-free like you would outside.

Treadmills are no longer torture devices that sit in a dusty basement only to be used on gloomy, rainy days! You can use and enjoy a treadmill indoors to improve your outdoor running.

Are Treadmills Bad For Knees And Joints?

A treadmill is better for your knees than running on concrete or asphalt. Many treadmills on our best list include generous cushioning that will absorb much of the shock from running. Using a treadmill is a great option if you have sensitive knees or tender joints that could use a break from all the impact of running.

How Fast Is 7.0 On A Treadmill?

7 mph is about 8:30 per mile. Many treadmills provide miles per hour, kilometers per hour, and minutes per mile metrics as you run. The 2450 offers this feature right at the top of the screen.