Best Treadmills For Seniors 2024

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Last Updated: June 21, 2023

Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is important in all stages of life, especially as we age. One convenient way to keep up with your health is by using a treadmill. Treadmills provide numerous benefits for seniors like maintaining strength, keeping the heart strong and healthy, and improving balance.

If you’re a senior and any of this sounds like your goals, then you’ve come to the right place! Our experts have put together this list of best treadmills for seniors to help guide you in finding the perfect one for you. We’ve compiled this list with key factors in mind. Things like cushioning, running surface size, console readability, and weight limit need to be taken into account to ensure you take home a treadmill that you can safely use and rely on in your wellness journey. Out of all the treadmills we’ve tested and reviewed, the treadmills on this list are the best for older folks looking for a solid treadmill that checks these boxes and more.

Whether you’re a senior who needs a bit more balance assistance, a seasoned runner hoping to log miles, have limited space, or if you’re on a budget, we’ve got you covered. Below I’ll tell you everything you need to know about each of these treadmills, why we recommend them, and what to look for when buying a treadmill for a senior.

Why You Should Trust Us

Here at Treadmill Review Guru, our reviewers are fitness professionals who know treadmills. We know exactly what you should take into consideration when searching for a home treadmill. It’s based on our own experiences using a wide variety of treadmills that helps us determine which treadmills we name as “best” and for what reason. All of the treadmills on this list below are recommended because they’re appropriate and safe for seniors. We’ve also given each one an award after careful consideration in the hope of helping older folks find the best one to fit their individual needs.

Here Are The Best Treadmills For Seniors For 2024

See the Pro’s and Con’s, features, specs, and why each exercise bike made our best list below.

Sneak Peek of Best Exercise Bikes:









Best Treadmill For Seniors – Our Experts Top Picks

1. Best Overall Treadmill For Seniors – Sole F63 Treadmill

Best Overall Treadmill For Seniors - Sole F63 Treadmill

A favorite treadmill that’s excellent for older, wiser individuals is the Sole F63 Treadmill. The deck folds up to save space and it has 4 wheels for easy moving. That’s why we’ve proudly named the Sole F63 the best overall treadmill for seniors. Many folding treadmills require being tipped back in order to move, which requires a bit of physical exertion. The Sole F63 glides forward and backward when pushed so you’re able to reposition it as often as you need to which is a commendable aspect for a treadmill of this size.

Keep in mind that folding up the deck requires some bending and lifting, but we love that you just have to pull the yellow handle to unfold it. The Sole F63 comes out at a very affordable price point considering all of its monumental features. Walking, jogging, and light running are all possible with the 3.0 HP motor and large 20” x 60” deck. Most users will appreciate the low 8” step-up height as well.

We associate Sole treadmills as being hearty, workhorse machines that last, and the F63 is no exception. It has a simple LCD console and large adjustment buttons that make controlling this treadmill convenient. Check out the Sole F63 if you’re looking for a great treadmill for a senior.

Head over to our full written review to see more details about the Sole F63 Treadmill.

Pros
  • It has 4 wheels, 2 under the front stabilizer and 2 under the deck that make it portable and easy to transport, especially considering it weighs 267 lbs.
  • The solid construction is backed up with a 325 lb weight limit and lifetime warranties on the frame and motor.
  • It is at a nice price point considering all of its capabilities.
  • The simple console has good readability and is easy to use.
Cons
  • The cushioning is firm underfoot and might not be best for those with severe joint discomfort.
  • The fan has a weak air output.

FeaturesSpecifications
  • 6.5” LCD Screen
  • Easy Assist folding
  • 4 transportation wheels
  • Device Rack
  • Onboard workouts programs
  • Bluetooth enabled speakers
  • Pulse grips
  • 2 cupholders
  • Workout fan
  • 3.0 HP DC Motor
  • Footprint: 77” L x 35” W x 67” H
  • Running surface: 20” W x 60” L
  • Weight capacity: 325 lbs
  • Max speed: 12 mph
  • Max incline: level 15
  • Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 2- years deck and electronics/parts,1-year labor, and 90-days cosmetic
The Sole F63 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a treadmill to do everything from walking up to light to moderate running. It comes with plenty of storage to keep necessities nearby, all while being simple to navigate, extremely sturdy, and quiet. There are plenty of adjustment buttons within reach on the console as well as on both of the side handles. This way you can control the treadmill while maintaining your balance.

2. Best Home Treadmill – NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Best-Treadmill-For-Home-Use-NordicTrack-Commercial-1750-Treadmill

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is just a great all-around treadmill. We consider it the best home treadmill because of its versatility and wide range of thoughtful features. One aspect that we love is the deck’s cushioning. In our testing, we’ve discovered that NordicTrack’s treadmills are comfortable to walk and run on. They have some of the softest cushioning that significantly lessens the impact on the joints which comes with using a treadmill.

In addition to being comfortable to use, it has a massive 22” wide and 60” long deck that accommodates all kinds of use. Seniors who love to walk or run will get a lot of use out of the 1750. It has a slim profile and streamlined design that’s functional and practical. We really like the textured side handles that keep your hands from slipping, as well as the singular horizontal handle in front that’s accessible to grab when needed.

The NordicTrack 1750 has a sufficiently sized 14” touch screen that is extremely adjustable, making it easy to see. Plus, there are quick-touch adjustment buttons on either side of the screen so you can control the treadmill with a swift touch of a button. The screen comes with a free 30-day trial to the fitness platform, iFit which offers professional guidance in fitness and overall health. iFit has numerous classes led by instructors that you can take with a subscription. iFit isn’t required to use the treadmill, however.

Learn more about the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill, here.

Pros
  • The wide 22” deck provides ample room and is soft underfoot to be gentler on your legs and joints.
  • The 3.5 CHP motor can handle all kinds of workouts and heavy use.
  • It has a 15% incline and -3% decline to work your posterior and anterior muscles effectively.
  • The 300 lb weight capacity makes this sturdy treadmill acceptable for larger users.
Cons
  • iFit comes with a monthly cost and requires wifi to access the full library of fitness and wellness content.
  • It requires more physical effort to move and fold/unfold, compared to other models on this list.
FeaturesSpecifications
  • 14” Tilt and pivot touch screen
  • SpaceSaver design with Easy Lift Assist
  • 2 transportation wheels
  • iFit enabled which comes free for the first month
  • Premium audio speakers
  • Bluetooth headphone and heart rate connectivity
  • 2 removable cupholders
  • 3.5 CHP Motor
  • Footprint: 80” L x 38” W x 65” H
  • Running surface: 22” W x 60” L
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Max speed: 12 mph
  • Max incline: 15%
  • Max decline: -3%
  • Warranty: Frame 10-years, parts 2-years, labor 1-year
We highly recommend the NordicTrack 1750 to older active adults who want a highly functional treadmill that they can log a lot of miles on. We love that the screen is large enough to see clearly and easy to navigate by using your fingertips. Plus, if you like guided workouts iFit has an extensive library of classes filmed all around the world.

3. Best Affordable Treadmill – Horizon T101 Treadmill

Best-Treadmill-For-Walking-Horizon-T101-Treadmill
The Horizon T101 is the most affordable treadmill on this list. We consider it an excellent bang for your buck because of its sturdy construction that is backed up with a lifetime warranty. Another aspect that makes it feel so solid is that it can accommodate up to 300 lbs. When we use it, we are impressed with how it feels underfoot. The built-in cushioning within the deck feels surprisingly comfortable for a treadmill well under $1000. The cushioning is definitely efficient in lessening the impact on your joints.

While it’s not built for heavy training, it can handle walking and light jogging. The 2.5 CHP motor responds well to this level of use. The deck is pretty spacious at 20” x 55” and low to the ground with an 8” step-up. This makes it beneficial for stepping on and off a treadmill of this size. To save space, the deck does fold up and can be moved with the attached transportation wheels. It does require a bit of effort to do this, however.

Instead of a single screen, the T101 has three LED displays that show your incline level, speed level, time, estimated calories burned, distance, and heart rate. The console has large buttons for selecting onboard workouts and even changing your resistance and incline to specific levels, quickly. Overall, the console is really intuitive to use and well within reach. I also appreciate the front horizontal handle that has built-in pulse grips to take your heart rate when you grasp them.

Check out more details about the Horizon T101 Treadmill in our full review.

Pros
  • It is of high quality at a very affordable price.
  • The 3-Zone cushioning provides comfort and shock absorption.
  • It inclines up to 10% while supporting 300 lbs.
  • The motor is surprisingly quiet and ideal for walking and light jogging.
Cons
  • The speakers aren’t very loud but you can play your own music through them from your phone or tablet.
  • The fan isn’t the most powerful compared to other treadmills we’ve used.

FeaturesSpecifications
  • 3 LED windows display
  • SpaceSaver design with Easy Lift Assist
  • 2 transportation wheels
  • Onboard workout programs
  • Device rack
  • Bluetooth enabled speakers
  • Audio jack
  • Pulse grips
  • 2 cupholders
  • 2.5 CHP Motor
  • Footprint: 71” L x 34” W x 57” H
  • Running surface: 20” W x 55” L
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Max speed: 10 mph
  • Max incline: 10%
  • Warranty: Frame and motor lifetime, parts and labor 1-year
At this price point, we suggest considering the Horizon T101 if you are looking for a dependable treadmill that doesn’t break the bank. Senior users should get a lot of use out of this hearty little treadmill as well as find it simple and straightforward to use.

4. Safest Treadmill For Seniors – Sunny Health & Fitness Recovery Walking Treadmill

Safest Treadmill For Seniors - Sunny Health & Fitness Recovery Walking Treadmill

The Sunny Health & Fitness Recovery Walking Treadmill has long handles that extend on either side of the deck, making it ideal for users who need a bit more stability when they’re walking on a treadmill. There are also two different front handles that extend above and below the console. They’re slim enough to grip for support when needed. This is a big reason why we’ve given the Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill the title of being the safest treadmill for seniors.

If you’re newer to using treadmills, recovering from an injury, or at a higher risk of falling, then this is a nice treadmill to check out. It sits very low to the ground and is best used for walking only. This is because of its design and the smaller 2.5 peak HP motor and 5 mph max speed.

There are adjustable leveling feet to keep the Recovery Walking Treadmill from rocking while you’re using it. It also has front wheels for transporting. The console is minimal, yet displays metrics you need to know like your calories, distance, time, and speed. There isn’t an incline function on this treadmill, but it supports users up to 295 lbs.

Pros
  • The side handles are the length of the deck to offer assistance and stability.
  • It’s a great value treadmill that has added features to provide extra safety.
  • It can support walkers up to 295 lbs.
  • It has a more compact footprint compared to others on this list.
Cons
  • It doesn’t fold up.
  • The console displays limited metrics and offers no onboard programming.
FeaturesSpecifications
  • Digital monitor
  • Extensive handrails
  • Transportation wheels
  • Display shows: calories, distance, mode, speed, and time
  • 2.5 Peak HP Motor
  • Footprint: 58” L x 29” W x 53” H
  • Running surface: 19.5” W x 44” L
  • Weight capacity: 295 lbs
  • Max speed: 5 mph
  • No incline
  • Warranty: Frame 3-years, other parts and components 180 days
The Sunny Health & Fitness Recovery Walking Treadmill is an excellent buy if you’re nervous about using a treadmill, but know you should use one. Walking is a great way to encourage good health, and this treadmill has built-in safety features to help you feel confident while using it. It’s smaller in size to work in more spaces, too.

5. Best Portable Treadmill Under $2000 – NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill

Best Portable Treadmill Under $2000 - NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill

The NordicTrack EXP 10i is a compact treadmill that’s easy to use and easy to move. It weighs around 230 lbs, but it has front transportation wheels and a hydraulic folding system so it’s easy to fold and move when you need to. That’s why we’ve awarded it as the best portable treadmill under $2000 on this list.

We recommend the EXP 10i for walking and jogging. It has a 2.75 CHP motor that’s quiet and consistent. Plus, its deck is 20” wide and 55” long to accommodate most walking and jogging strides. This model isn’t best for running, but it’s great for slower paces. The deck also has nice cushioning which feels softer underfoot than other models. So, if you have joint issues this is a model to check out.

The layout of the console is straightforward and easy to use. The 10” touch screen is centered on the console for good visibility. Being from NordicTrack, the EXP 10i comes with an optional subscription to iFit for guided workouts. iFit offers thousands of trainer-led workout classes to keep you entertained to offer guidance when using the EXP 10i. The class library is easy to navigate on the touch screen and everything is clear and well within view.

If you’re a senior looking for a treadmill with a good amount of tech and soft cushioning that’s easier to move when needed, check out the NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill.

Find out more about the NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill at our review.

Pros
  • The deck has nice cushioning and folds up with a lift assist.
  • This treadmill is fairly lightweight and easy to move when needed.
  • The 10” touch screen is well within reach and easy to see and use.
  • The motor is quiet and appropriate for walking and jogging.
Cons
  • You have to subscribe to iFit to get full functionality out of the screen.
  • It isn’t best for heavy use.
FeaturesSpecifications
  • 10” Tilt HD Touch Screen
  • 30-day iFit Membership Included
  • Premium Audio Speakers
  • Automatic Trainer Control
  • AutoBreeze Workout Fan
  • 2 Cupholders
  • Spacesaver Design with EasyLift Assist
  • 2.75 CHP Motor
  • Footprint: 70.8” L x 34.9” W x 59.7” H
  • Running surface: 20” W x 55” L
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Max speed: 10 mph
  • Max incline: 12%
  • Warranty: Frame 10-years, parts 2-years, and labor 1 year
The NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill is compact with a straightforward design. The 10” touch screen makes it easy to use, especially with iFit. If you’re a senior looking for a simple, yet comfortable treadmill check out the EXP 10i.

6. Best Fold-Up Treadmill For Seniors – Xterra TRX4500 Treadmill

Best Fold-Up Treadmill For Seniors Xterra TRX4500 Treadmill
The Xterra TRX4500 has a lot of impressive qualities, and it folds up. Having a treadmill with a foldable deck can help save a lot of space when it’s not being used. The Lift Assist and Safe Drop features allow you to fold and unfold the deck safely. With a pull of a handle, the deck will slowly release from a folded position, leaving you to just step to the side and watch the deck softly land on the ground. Folding does require bending down, but the Lift Assist aids you in folding up the deck by absorbing a lot of the deck’s weight. This makes lifting the deck to fold it much easier and lighter.

Keep in mind that this folding mechanism isn’t going to work for everyone, especially if you have mobility issues and muscle weakness. Nonetheless, it is handy, particularly for a treadmill with a large footprint like the TRX4500. The folding deck on the Xterra is also similar to other foldable treadmills on this list. With a 20” by 60” running surface and 3.25 HP motor, you’ll be able to get a lot of use out of the TRX4500.

Walkers, joggers, and runners can log miles and step on and off the TRX4500 conveniently because the deck is only 8” high. The 15 levels of incline will let you vary your workouts, too. There are lots of adjustment buttons for you to have full control of the speed and incline in front of you surrounding the display and under your fingers on each of the side handles.

Check out our full review to learn more about the Xterra TRX4500.

Pros
  • The deck folds and unfolds to create more space when you’re not using it.
  • The console provides plenty of adjusting choices and the LCD screen is backlit so it can be seen in low-light settings.
  • The motor is a hefty 3.25 HP to handle walking, jogging, and running.
  • There are transportation wheels that allow you to simply push the treadmill where you need it to go.
Cons
  • The cushioning provides shock absorption but is firmer than other comparable treadmills.
  • The fan is smaller and weaker than other treadmills we’ve tested.
FeaturesSpecifications
  • LCD blue/backlit display
  • Folding frame with lift-assist
  • Transportation wheels
  • Onboard workout programs
  • Device rack
  • Bluetooth enabled speakers
  • Audio jack
  • Pulse grips
  • 2 cupholders
  • 3.25 HP Motor
  • Footprint: 77.2” L x 35.5” W x 56.1” H
  • Running surface: 20” W x 60” L
  • Weight capacity: 350 lbs
  • Max speed: 12 mph
  • Max incline: level 15
  • Warranty: Frame and motor lifetime, deck 5-years, parts 2-years, and labor 1-year
The Xterra TRX4500 is a nice all-around treadmill that folds up to save you extra space. If you’re looking for a treadmill that you can put in a lot of work on that folds up when finished, then we recommend the Xterra TRX4500.

7. Best Lightweight Treadmill – Echelon Stride

Best-Folding-Treadmill-Echelon-Stride-Treadmill
The Echelon Stride Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill is an excellent choice if you’re short on space but want a treadmill for walking and jogging. We consider it the best lightweight treadmill because it only weighs 156 lbs, but can handle up to 300 lbs. It is also the only treadmill on this list that has a foldable console. This means that the Echelon Stride folds flat instead of folding the deck up.

The Echelon is the most compact on this list, but we can only give each treadmill one award. There are a few treadmills on this list that could claim multiple award titles. We like that the Echelon Stride inclines up to 12% and has sufficient cushioning for shock absorption. The belt is 20” wide and 55” long. Most sized users should be able to enjoy walking and jogging. However, the 1.75 HP motor isn’t intended for heavy use.

The console is small but clearly displays your workout metrics. We love its readability and functionality. There are preset speed and incline settings to make adjusting the treadmill efficient, as well as buttons on both of the side handles for quick adjusting, too.

Check out more about the Echelon Stride, here.

Pros
  • It’s lightweight, especially considering it can handle up to 300 lb users.
  • The console and handles collapse on top of the deck for the treadmill to be stored more easily.
  • There are transportation wheels to move this light treadmill easily.
  • The 20” wide deck provides plenty of room to walk and jog on.
Cons
  • The short handles and small size of the treadmill might not be suitable for users who have problems with balance.
  • The 12-month warranty is very limited compared to what other brands offer.

FeaturesSpecifications
  • Collapsible console
  • Folds flat
  • 6 transportation wheels
  • Connectivity to Echelon Fit App
  • Device rack
  • 2 cupholders
  • 1.75 CHP Motor
  • Footprint: 69” L x 31” W x 49” H
  • Running surface: 20” W x 55” L
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Max speed: 12 mph
  • Max incline: 12%
  • Warranty: 12-month warranty
We suggest the Echelon Stride if you want a highly functional treadmill that folds flat, is compact and is lightweight. Golden-agers looking to walk and jog at home should find value in this hearty little treadmill.

8. Best Small Treadmill For Seniors – ProForm Pro 2000

Best Small Treadmill For Seniors - ProForm Pro 2000
The ProForm Pro 2000 is another compact treadmill with impressive capabilities. It inclines up to 12%, declines to -3%, holds up to 300 lbs, and moves up to 12 mph. We consider it a small treadmill because the deck is 20” wide and 60” long. This means it’s perfect for all running strides, yet doesn’t take up unnecessary space. The 3.25 CHP motor is excellent for light to moderate running, too.

The ProForm Pro 2000 stays planted on the floor without any rocking. It also has a steel frame and uprights to make it feel sturdy and secure while in use. The front horizontal handle extends across the front of the deck to provide stability on the front of the deck as well as on the sides with the side handles.

The 10” touchscreen is centered and large enough to see its content clearly. The Pro 2000 does come with a free 30-day trial of iFit, which offers trainer-led classes. The Pro 2000 can be used with or without the subscription, but iFit does have a lot of value in that it provides a complete training experience for your body and mind. You can take guided walks, meditation, yoga classes, and more when you subscribe.

Head over to our full review of the ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill to learn more.

Pros
  • The compact footprint handles walking, jogging, and running. It can also be folded up to save space.
  • The large 10” touch screen is a nice size to see iFit content clearly.
  • The front-mounted speakers point and the volume adjusts loudly and clearly.
  • The buttons below the screen offer quick adjusting of the treadmill.
Cons
  • In order to get the full functionality of the screen, you need to subscribe to iFit which has a monthly cost.
  • The deck requires some bending to fold up.
FeaturesSpecifications
  • 10” HD touch screen
  • Folding deck
  • 2 transportation wheels
  • iFit enabled and comes with a free trial for a month
  • Device rack
  • Workout fan
  • Bluetooth enabled speakers
  • 2 cupholders
  • Motor: 3.25 CHP
  • Footprint: 77.3” L x 35.3” W x 59.6” H
  • Running surface: 20” W x 60” L
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Max speed: 12 mph
  • Max incline: 12%
  • Max decline: -3%
  • Warranty: Frame 10-years, parts 2-year, and labor 1-year
The ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill is a nice, space-saving size. Plus, the deck can be folded up to give you room when you’re not using it. We recommend it because it has an impressive design and the console works like a tablet that you can control by using your fingertips.

9.Best Treadmill For Overweight Seniors – Sole F85 Treadmill

Best Treadmill For Overweight Seniors - Sole F85 Treadmill
The Sole F85 Treadmill is very hearty and extremely sturdy. It has a large 375 lb weight capacity. This is typically one of the highest weight capacities that we see on treadmills, so the Sole F85 is great for larger users. Plus, you’ll have plenty of room on the 22” x 60” deck.

If you’re looking to run a lot of miles, you’re in luck. The Sole F85 has an impressive 4.0 HP motor that’s designed to be used in homes. It also can handle heavy use because of its hearty construction. While you’re getting in workouts, you’ll have plenty of choices when it comes to making adjustments. From under your grips on the side handles, to below the screen in front of you, there are numerous places you can adjust this treadmill for a better speed and incline.

If you do want some entertainment while you’re using the Sole F85, the 15.6” touch screen has preloaded apps to stream Netflix, Hulu, and more. There are 12 preloaded apps that are ready for you to log into and start watching. If you prefer not to be distracted, you can simply step on and go. Plus, stepping on and off is nice with the low 8” step-up height.

At our full written review, you can learn more about the Sole F85 Treadmill.

Pros
  • The 400 lb max weight limit is impressive and makes this treadmill feel like a tank.
  • The large deck and motor can handle walking, jogging, and running, as well as a lot of use.
  • You can stream TV shows, movies, and the news from the touch screen.
  • The deck can be folded up to save space when you’re not using it.
Cons
  • The cushioning provides more shock absorption than concrete, but it feels firm to use.
  • The screen is nonadjustable so it’s a little hard to reach while running for some.

FeaturesSpecifications
  • 15.6” touch screen display
  • 12 preloaded apps: Netflix, Youtube, Spotify, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Prime Video, Peacock, EPSN, CNN, Audible, and Kinomap
  • Easy assist folding
  • 4 transportation wheels
  • Onboard workout programs
  • Device rack
  • Bluetooth enabled speakers
  • Wireless Charging Tray
  • Pulse grips
  • 2 cupholders
  • 4.0 HP DC Motor
  • Footprint: 82.5” L x 38” W x 66” H
  • Running surface: 22” W x 60” L
  • Weight capacity: 375 lbs
  • Max speed: 12 mph
  • Max decline: -6 levels
  • Warranty: Frame and motor lifetime, all other components and deck 3-years, labor 1-year, and cosmetic items 90 days
We recommend checking out the Sole F85 if you need a treadmill that can handle a lot of use with a large weight capacity. We love how durable and hefty this treadmill feels and how easy it is to adjust. The adjustment buttons on the handles are my favorite to use for convenience.

What To Consider When Buying A Treadmill For A Senior

Now that you’ve learned more about each of the treadmills that we recommend for seniors, it’s important to know what you should consider when determining which one is best for you.

Safety

Before purchasing and using a treadmill, it’s important to know how to properly use it. This is something that we recommend for everyone. When used incorrectly, treadmills can be dangerous. We strongly encourage you to clip the end of the safety key to your clothing while you’re using a treadmill. This way if you lose your balance or fall, the belt will immediately stop. This is a safety feature on every treadmill.

It’s also important to know your limitations. If you require a bit more stability, especially when using a treadmill, then don’t get one with short or non-existent side handles. If you aren’t able to lift objects over 10 lbs, then a treadmill that folds up manually might be out of the question. Unless you’re able to store it unfolded at all times.

If you’re new to using a treadmill, recovering from an injury, or have physical ailments, consult your doctor to be sure a treadmill is right for you. You can read our full treadmill safety guide here.

Cushioning

Many treadmills have what is called cushioning in the deck that helps protect your joints. Some have more than others, which results in some treadmill decks feeling softer than others. Running and even walking places some level of impact on your joints. The shock that you get when your feet come in contact with the ground, can be minimized with cushioning. In our reviews, we test the level of cushioning in every treadmill and compare it to others we’ve tested. We also describe how the cushioning feels in our reviews so you know before you buy the treadmill. NordicTrack has some of the softest cushioning we’ve run on which is optimal for those looking for a friendlier option for your joints.

Running Surface

For standard use and most users, a 60” long deck is plenty for walking all the way up to running. 55” long decks are great for walking, and jogging for most users. Users with longer running strides might not find this length to be spacious enough for running.

For seniors, we encourage looking into running surfaces that are at least 20” wide. We’ve found that this width of the deck provides enough room so you don’t have to worry about space which can make it harder to balance. A wide and large surface will give you plenty of room to move comfortably.

Step-up Height

The step-up height or deck height is the height of the deck from the floor when it is at a flat, 0% grade. It might not seem like much, but stepping on and off a treadmill deck can require some effort, especially if the treadmill has a high step-up height. We’ve tested treadmills that have deck heights that are a foot high, which makes tripping more likely. A lower step-up height can make a big difference.

Console

Of course, you want to be able to read what your treadmill has to say. The console will display what speed and incline level you’re at, as well as plenty of other information. Some treadmills have very small consoles that aren’t backlit, making them hard to read. Alternatively, there are also plenty of treadmills nowadays that have large “TV-like” screens attached to them.

Sometimes these types of screens function like televisions, but commonly they include their own programming that involves a subscription. Often, if you can navigate a tablet, you should be able to navigate one of these screens with ease. However, if you prefer a lower-tech option there are plenty of LCD consoles on a wide variety of treadmills. These kinds of consoles are usually easy to use.

Other General Factors

Other important factors to consider when choosing the right treadmill for you are the motor size, and weight capacity. For instance, if you’re a runner, you should look for a treadmill with a 3.0-4.0 HP motor size. If you’re planning on heavy use, I would recommend looking for one over 3.5 HP. You should also choose an appropriate weight capacity and be sure to not get a treadmill where you exceed it. Both of these factors can inhibit how your treadmill performs and how long it lasts.

We also always recommend ensuring you have enough space for your treadmill, and this includes an appropriate ceiling height. Folding treadmills can save a lot of space, but you should be sure you can lift the belt to fold it, otherwise, a treadmill that folds electronically might be a better option. The same is with portability. Most treadmills have wheels, but some require being tilted in order to move, while others can simply be pushed. If you need a treadmill that is portable and space-saving it’s best to be sure you get one that you can maneuver yourself. It’s also important to look into the warranty package included with the treadmill. Most brands offer nice warranties to cover the frame, parts, and labor. A treadmill is a big purchase, and a warranty can help if you come across problems with it down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are manual treadmills good for seniors?

Manual treadmills are treadmills without motors that have decks that are controlled by your legs. So, instead of the treadmill belt moving after being plugged in and turned on, you can simply step on a manual treadmill and start walking and running. The belt goes as fast as your legs do. Learn more about these two kinds of treadmills, here.

We don’t recommend manual treadmills, especially curved-belt manual treadmills to seniors because they can be hard to use. They’re better for runners who want to train at high speeds usually over 15 mph. We don’t recommend manual treadmills for walking because they are not good for “zoning out”. They require concentration and have a bit of a learning curve when you first start using them.

Is a treadmill or elliptical better for seniors?

Treadmills and ellipticals can be suitable for seniors depending on the machine and the user. If you have joint problems and pain, an elliptical might be a better option because the movement is low impact. If you have balance problems, a treadmill might be the better solution because ellipticals can be harder to get on and off of. It is always a good idea to look into each machine and how it operates to help determine if it aligns with your abilities.

Are treadmills good for arthritis?

Physical activity that is low to no impact doesn’t place stress on the joints but instead can help lubricate them. This helps with arthritis. Movement such as walking is typically encouraged for people with arthritis because it is low-impact. Using a treadmill is a great way to get in walking.

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