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 If you’re looking to replicate the globo-gym experience in the comfort of your own home, you might want to consider purchasing commercial fitness equipment. Luckily, our team at Garage Gym Reviews has you covered with our top picks for best commercial treadmill on the market. We’ll run you through the durability, deck size, and motor power on each machine in order to help you find the right option. 

We have personally tested the best treadmills out there (and a lot of not-so-great ones as well). In fact, our team, which consists of elite athletes, marathon runners, certified personal trainers, and more, have used more than 50 running machines to assess their value.

8 Top Picks for Best Commercial Treadmill

Best Commercial Treadmill Video Review

Best Commercial Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial X32i

Good for: Tall individuals or those with long strides

Best Commercial Treadmill Overall

NordicTrack Commercial X32i Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.25 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Decline and larger incline than most other treadmills
  • 32” touchscreen
  • Powerful motor 
  • Commercial-grade machine
  • Oversized running surface

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • -32” HD touchscreen
  • -Heart rate chest strap included
  • -6% Decline to 40% Incline
  • -Quiet when in use
  • -Extremely powerful 4.25 CHP motor

Cons

  • -Doesn’t fold
  • -Expensive
  • -Heavy and hard to move

Bottom Line

While this treadmill is definitely on the expensive side, the many added features makes for a high-quality piece of equipment.

The NordicTrack Commercial X32i treadmill has all the makings of an excellent commercial treadmill for home use. The 22-inch-by-65-inch deck is huge and above the industry standard size for running by five inches. This machine is able to support sprinting, walking, jogging, and running without any issues.

The durability of the X32i is palpable. I felt no play in the deck or display, even when completing a high-intensity interval workout. This is likely due to the 4.25 CHP motor, which is quite powerful and makes the machine surprisingly quiet. Plus, the cushioning is cloud-like and very responsive––I felt like I was bouncing as I ran. If you don’t like a lot of cushioning, you may not enjoy this factor. 

Although you won’t find any free preset programs, you can take advantage of the 32-inch touchscreen and view on-demand iFIT classes (subscription sold separately). You’ll be able to follow along with ease, thanks to AutoAdjust, which changes your speed, incline, and decline to match the instructor’s directions. 

In testing, this machine got a 5/5 for its adjustability and ergonomics. The X32i has an impressive 40-percent incline, which is essentially like going straight uphill. Your calves will be on fire from the Everest-level upward trajectory, but you can always take a quick break and utilize the six-percent decline to switch it up. 

At 462 pounds, the X32i is insanely heavy and doesn’t fold. However, that’s on-par with what you’d expect from any other commercial treadmill for home––you’ll need to be prepared with a space for this machine to live permanently. Just don’t make that place the garage, as NordicTrack will void your warranty.

Check out our full NordicTrack X32i review.

Footprint76.5” L x 40” W x 73” H
Tread Belt22” W x 65” L
Weight Capacity300 lbs
Speed0-12 MPH Speed
Incline-6% Decline to 40% Incline
Motor4.25 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor1
Display32″ Smart HD Touchscreen
Warranty10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

Best Folding Commmercial Treadmill: Sole F63

Good for: People who want a durable cardio machine that folds

Best Folding Treadmill

Sole F63

GGR Score: 4.3 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Folding treadmill
  • Costs around $1,000
  • Heart rate chest strap included
  • Bluetooth speakers, USB port, and cooling fan
  • Powerful 3.0 HP motor

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Financing is available
  • Bluetooth speakers
  • USB port
  • Device holder
  • 15 different levels of incline
  • Cushioned deck
  • 20" W x 60" L belt
  • 325-lb weight capacity
  • Lifetime frame and motor warranty

Cons

  • Heavy machine
  • No touchscreen

Bottom Line

The Sole F63 Treadmill is an affordable option for people who want a powerful, reliable machine without breaking their budget.

If you’re looking for one of the best folding treadmills, you’ve got it. The Sole F63 features an easy lift-and-lock mechanism that secures the deck in place at an angle. No, this machine doesn’t fold flat (check out our Echelon Stride review if you want a machine that does that). However, it does fold enough to save you some space in your home gym.

Priced around $1,000, the Sole F63 offers a lot of the features you’d expect to find on a commercial-grade treadmill. For starters, you’ll get Bluetooth speakers that were rated well in our testing. There is also a tablet holder, USB port, Bluetooth heart rate chest strap monitor, and cooling fans.

The hardcore steel frame on the F63 comes with lifetime warranty. When we used this machine for jogging and running, we didn’t notice any back-and-forth movement from the machine. However, during sprints, GGR head of content found a little jostling.

Priced around $1,000, this is one of the more affordable commercial treadmills out there. As such, there are a few areas where the F63 may fall short compared to higher-priced models, notably in its lack of a touchscreen. Also, the motor is 3.0 CHP, which is perfectly fine for most runners, though not quite as powerful as other motors. The speed range (0 to 12 MPH) and incline (up to 15%) are standard for commercial treadmills, though you may find decline options on others.

Sole f63 with Coop and the display.

Sole treadmills are compatible with Studio, which is interactive programming akin to Peloton or iFIT. Like those brands, Studio also requires a paid membership. If you don’t want to use Studio, the F63 comes with six standard programs, two programs that are heart rate-based, and two that are customizable.

For more on our experience with this machine, check out our Sole F63 Treadmill review.

Footprint66” H x 82” L x 35” W
Tread Belt20″ W x 60″ L
Weight Capacity325 lbs
Speed.5-12 mph
Incline15 levels
Motor3.0 HP, DC Type
DisplayBacklit LCD
WarrantyLifetime warranty on steel frame and motor, 3 years for deck, electronics, and parts1 year for labor

Best Budget Commercial Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT

Good for: People who want a reliable treadmill for around $1,000

Best Budget Commercial Treadmill

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

Product Highlights

  • Priced under $1,000
  • Spacious 60-inch running deck
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 60” running surface
  • 3.0 CHP motor
  • Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
  • 325 lb weight limit

Cons

  • Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
  • No included touchscreen
  • 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

Bottom Line

For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.

Don’t have a ton of cash to spend but want a commercial treadmill? Although I wouldn’t exactly call the Horizon 7.0 AT commercial, it is a commercial-adjacent treadmill. At just under $1,000, this budget-friendly cardio machine will surprise you with its durability. 

Horizon guarantees your frame and motor for life, which is really impressive for the price. Right off the bat, you can tell the 7.0 is sturdy––the machine doesn’t shake while being used and it feels like a well-made machine. The shock-absorbing deck is easier on the joints, but the cushioning could be slightly better. If you prefer more minimal cushioning, you’ll likely enjoy what the 7.0 AT has to offer.

woman walking on horizon 7.0 treadmill

The 20-inch-by-60-inch deck is also suitable for a variety of heights and strides. Although there isn’t a touchscreen on the 7.0 AT, you’ll still be able to take advantage of eight different preset programs. You’ll be able to view these options (and various metrics) on the seven-inch LCD display. 

Although this machine feels quite durable and has a user weight capacity of 325 pounds, Horizon won’t disclose their motor’s horsepower. I’m not sure why the brand has chosen to do this, as it is a factor that would garner trust from a potential customer. From my experience, the motor seems supportive and isn’t overly noisy while being used.

Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill review.

Footprint76″ L x 35″ W x 66″ H
Tread Belt60” L x 20” W
Weight Capacity325 lbs
Speed0.5-12 MPH
Incline0-15%
Motor*Not disclosed
Display7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows
WarrantyLifetime frame and motor, 3 years parts, 1 year labor

Best Incline Commercial: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

Good for: Those looking for a wide decline-to-incline range

Best Incline Commercial Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

GGR Score: 4.5 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Spacious running deck
  • Compatible with iFIT
  • 14-inch touchscreen
  • Incline and decline training
  • Financing available

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Compatible with iFIT
  • 3.5 CHP motor
  • Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
  • Treadmill with incline and decline training
  • Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
  • Run that feels similar to road running
  • Financing options available through NordicTrack
  • Generous speed range
  • Wide running deck
  • Cooling fan

Cons

  • Big footprint
  • Heavy and not the easiest to move
  • Price is around $2,000
  • Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage

Bottom Line

If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

Hands-down, the NordicTrack 1750 is one of the best NordicTrack treadmills on the market today. One of its most significant features is its incline range, which starts with a -3% decline and climbs to a 15% incline. This is fantastic for people who not only want to climb, but also want to practice descents which, as any runner knows, will blow up your quads if you aren’t used to them.

“I purposefully train hills before any big running race because you have to get your legs used to not just going up, but also going down,” says Amanda Capritto, GGR staff writer and experienced triathlete.

Adjusting the incline and decline is as easy as the push of a button, or, if you’re using iFIT on this machine, allowing the auto-trainer controls to kick in and do it for you. Like other NordicTrack treadmills, the 1750 syncs with iFIT and broadcasts workouts on a beautiful 14-inch touchscreen display that tilts and pivots.

You’ll also find other great features on the 1750, which is one of the best incline treadmills. For example, a 3.5 CHP motor that tops out at 12 MPH is ideal for running, sprints, and HIIT running workouts. We gave this machine a 5/5 for the conveniences, because you get cooling fans, Bluetooth speakers, large water bottle holders, and a cushioned deck as well.

Coop running on the best treadmill, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill

There are few downsides to the 1750. Perhaps the biggest one (pun intended) is the treadmill’s size. It’s quite large and heavy, making it difficult to assemble and to move around your space. It took our tester about 90 minutes to put it together by herself. Also, keep in mind that after your free trial of iFIT, you’ll need to pay for a subscription.

For more, check out our NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review.

Footprint81.25” L x 39.25” W x 62.75” H
Tread Belt60” x 22” 
Weight Capacity300 lbs
Speed0-12 mph
Incline/Decline-3% decline to 15% incline
Motor3.5 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor
Display14” Smart HD Touchscreen
Warranty10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

Best Manual Commercial Treadmill: TrueForm Runner

Good for: Someone who wants a durable, manual, curved treadmill

Best Manual Commercial Treadmill

TrueForm Runner

GGR Score: 4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Custom treads
  • Built like a tank
  • Promotes good walking and running form
  • Made in the USA
  • Very little maintenance needed

Made in USA Made in USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Solid steel construction
  • Made in the USA
  • Little to no maintenance needed
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Can customize the tread

Cons

  • Just under $6,000
  • Basic monitor
  • Weighs 340 lbs

Bottom Line

One of the most durable cardio machines on the planet—but it comes at a hefty price.

If you’ve ever been to a CrossFit box before, you’re probably pretty familiar with the TrueForm Runner. This curved, manual treadmill is built-to-last––you’ll get a 20-year warranty on the frame. You won’t feel any movement on the Runner, as this machine is a tank and constructed out of heavy-duty steel. 

This is a commercial treadmill for running. I’m a fan of the TrueForm Runner because I feel like it makes me run with better form due to the curvature of the deck. This treadmill is exclusively user-powered, which means you won’t have to worry about the motor failing or not lasting since there isn’t one. As long as you properly maintain your TrueForm Runner (through lubrication and cleaning), it will likely last for years to come.

Man running on TrueForm Trainer
Coop using the TrueForm Trainer, a similar but more affordable version of the TrueForm Runner

Plus, the 700-pound user weight capacity is well above the industry standard of 300, which makes it an inclusive choice for more people.

It is worth noting that this machine cannot fold and has a sizable footprint. Luckily, you won’t be limited to where you can find an outlet since the machine doesn’t have to be plugged in to work. You can roll the machine around on the included transport wheels, but you may have trouble lifting it up since it is almost 350 pounds assembled. I recommend grabbing a friend to help if you plan to move it significantly.

Also, it’s incredibly expensive. If you’re looking for a similar model you can try the TrueForm Trainer, which is very similar to the runner but isn’t as heavy-duty and is more affordable (more affordable being a relative term—it is still very pricey).

Take a look at our full TrueForm Runner Treadmill review.

Footprint64″ L x 36″ W x 63″ H
Tread Beltn/a
Weight Capacity700 lbs
SpeedManual
Incline/Declinen/a
MotorMotorless
DisplayBasic LCD display
Warranty20-year warranty

Best Durable Commercial Treadmill: SOLE TT8 

Good for: Heavier exercisers looking for an extremely durable machine

Best Durable Commercial Treadmill

Sole TT8 Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.4 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • High-end treadmill with a spacious running belt
  • Incline and decline grades 
  • 2-ply cushioned belt
  • 4.0 HP motor 
  • 400-lb weight capacity

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High user weight capacity (400 lbs)
  • Powerful motor (4.0 horsepower)
  • Can do incline and decline training (-6% to 15% range)
  • Spacious 20” by 60” running surface

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Large footprint
  • Heavy, not easy to move
  • No touchscreen

Bottom Line

The Sole TT8 is a high-end treadmill with many great features you’d expect to see on a treadmill that costs more than $2,000. Although it doesn’t have a touchscreen, this could be seen as a benefit since you don’t have to subscribe to a specific fitness app.

If you’re looking for a commercial-grade treadmill with a powerful motor, look no further than the Sole TT8 treadmill, which was recently updated in 2023. This machine has a 4.0 horsepower motor, which will support any kind of movement you want to do on the machine. Plus, the TT8 has a lifetime frame, motor, and deck warranty. 

If you’re a heavier person, you’ll likely enjoy the Sole TT8. It has a user weight capacity of 400 pounds, which is over 100 pounds more than the industry standard. The TT8 will also work well for taller folks––the 22-inch-by-60-inch deck is the ideal width and length for almost any stride.

The Sole TT8 has all the speed, incline, and decline options you could need. It maxes out at 12 miles per hour, has 15 levels of incline, and six levels of decline. 

It is worth noting that this machine has a high step-up height of eight inches. This may be problematic if you don’t have great balance or are an older adult who is concerned about falling. 

Plus, at 367 pounds, the TT8 isn’t a light machine. You’ll need to enlist the help of friends or family to get the machine up or down a flight of stairs. 

For more, check out our full Sole TT8 review.

Footprint81” L x 38” W x 66” H
Tread Belt60” L x 22” W
Weight Capacity400 lbs
Speed0.5-12 mph
Incline/Decline-6% decline to 15% incline
Motor4.0 HP
Display15.6” touchscreen
WarrantyLifetime frame and motor, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

Best Commercial Treadmill Under $5,000: Peloton Tread

Good for: Interactive programming enthusiasts

Best Commercial Treadmill Under $5,000

Peloton Tread

Product Highlights

  • Powerful 3.0 CHP motor
  • Carbon steel construction
  • Top speeds of 12.5 MPH
  • 23.5" HD touchscreen display
  • Incline training
  • Non-folding
  • Live and on-demand classes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Interactive, responsive HD touchscreen display
  • Access to thousands of workouts via Peloton
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Front speakers and rear woofers for great sound
  • Big range of speed and incline
  • Carbon steel frame
  • Intuitive controls
  • Red line centered on running deck ensures good running mechanics
  • Sleek design
  • Improved safety features: Tread lock, emergency stop button, stop-sensor technology in belt and a safety key

Cons

  • Disappointing warranty
  • No decline
  • No pre-programmed workout so need to purchase membership to Peloton
  • Expensive
  • Heavy
  • Smaller console
  • Minimal cushioning
  • No cooling fans (not a deal breaker but it would be nice)
  • Smaller running deck compared to similarly priced treadmills

Bottom Line

After several recalls back in 2021, Peloton recently released this new treadmill, the Peloton Tread, with improved safety measures. Perhaps best known for its wide range of live and on-demand classes, the Peloton Tread is a fantastic way to train indoors and stay motivated.  The easy-to-use, interactive touchscreen provides access to a library of workouts and leaderboards that truly brings training to a new level.Powered by a 3.0 horsepower motor, the Tread reaches speeds up to 12.5 mph and inclines up to 12.5%; impressive numbers by any standard. Constructed from carbon steel, the Tread has a sleek, compact design that is as sturdy as it is attractive. While the price tag is steep, it could be a worthwhile investment for your home gym if it fits your budget.

The Peloton Tread is a cult favorite, and for good reason. It features incredible live and on-demand classes from Peloton (membership sold separately), which can be a great motivator for people looking to be more consistent exercisers. Plus, the oversized touchscreen allows the user to enjoy their programming in a more immersive fashion. 

Although being under $5,000 doesn’t seem like much of an accomplishment, many top-of-the-line commercial treadmills are almost double this price. Plus, Peloton offers great financing options on the Tread if paying upfront isn’t in your budget. 

peloton tread in use

I love the newest feature that Peloton has added to the Tread—the safety lock. You have to type in a password to get the treadmill to start. This was created in response to kids and pets getting hurt while playing on the machine when they shouldn’t have been. 

The sleek design of the Tread makes you feel like you’re in a boutique exercise class. However, the machine doesn’t fold and cannot be compacted in any way. You’ll need to make sure you have a dedicated space for the Tread to live. 

It is also worth noting that this treadmill doesn’t have decline options. This isn’t actually uncommon for commercial treadmills––most only have incline anyway. However, if this was a criteria that is high on your list, you’ll be better off with something different.

Check out our full Peloton Tread review.

Footprint68” L x 33” W x 62” H
Tread Belt59″L x 20″ W
Weight Capacity300 lbs
Speed0 to 12 MPH
Incline/Decline0 to 12.5%
Motor3 HP DC
Display23.8″ touchscreen
Warranty12-month limited warranty

Best Commercial Treadmill for Streaming: BowFlex Treadmill 10

Good for: Those who want to watch shows or movies on a treadmill

Best for Streaming

Bowflex Treadmill 10

GGR Score: 3.7 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  •  -5% decline to 15% incline
  • Speeds up to 12 MPH
  • Compatible with JRNY, Bowflex’s online fitness platform
  • 10" interactive console
  • Cushioned running deck
  • Soft-drop folding system

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 1-year JRNY subscription included with curated playlists and training content
  • 22” x 60” running deck
  • Convenient speed and incline knobs
  • Max user weight of 400 pounds
  • Decline capabilities
  • Interactive screen
  • Heart rate armband included
  • Ability to stream Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max with subscription

Cons

  • At their own admission, Bowflex states it does not disclose information on motor power
  • Heavy
  • Some users found the screen to be too small
  • Some connectivity issues reported

Bottom Line

The Bowflex Treadmill 10 has a lot to offer users when it comes to technology and performance. It comes with a roomy, cushioned running surface, an interactive touchscreen display and it is heavy-duty. Keep in mind that Bowflex does not disclose their horsepower for the motor but users rave over the powerful feel.

There are few treadmills on the market today that enable you to directly stream shows from the console. We have an entire list of the best treadmills with a TV screen, but few currently allow you to broadcast Neflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video.

The Bowflex Treadmill 10 enables you to stream your favorite shows directly from its 10-inch HD touchscreen. The only catch is that you have to have a JRNY subscription. What is JRNY? It’s an interactive programming app similar to Peloton or iFIT. With JRNY, you have access to countless on-demand running classes as well as other types of cardio and strength training workouts. Additionally, once JRNY is set up on your machine, you can add your streaming service accounts and start watching.

As far as being a commercial-grade machine, the Treadmill 10 checks pretty much all the boxes. It has an extremely durable frame and an impressive 400-pound weight capacity. The warranty is really good as well: 15 years on the frame, five years on parts, 2 year on electronics, two years on labor.

We also love the running metrics of the Treadmill 10. It’s -5% decline to 15% incline range is one of the best you’ll find on a commercial treadmill, and it pairs well with a 0 to 12 MPH speed range. The running surface is a spacious 60 inches long by 22 inches wide, which makes it great for runners with long stride lengths.

coop jogging on bowflex treadmill 10

Like most other commercial treadmills, this is a big, heavy machine. Don’t expect it to fold flat or be easy to move. Assembly can also be complicated, as we found when we put this together in our testing warehouse.

Read all our thoughts in the Bowflex Treadmill 10 review.

Footprint85″ L x 39.6″ W x 65.3″ H
Tread Belt60″ L x 22″ W
Weight Capacity400 lbs
Speed0 to 12 MPH
Incline/Decline-5% decline to 15% incline
Motor4.0 CHP
Display10″ HD touchscreen
Warranty15-year frame, 5-year mechanical parts, 1-year electronics, 2-year labor

Other Commercial Treadmills We Researched

Life Fitness: Life Fitness offers a variety of treadmills for commercial use––you may have seen one before in your local gym. However, you need to be prepared to pay up to $11,000 for a Life Fitness treadmill, which isn’t realistic for most people. Check out our Life Fitness Treadmill reviews.

Precor: Precor currently has nine different treadmill models available for sale on their website. However, just like Life Fitness, you’ll need to be willing to shell out a pretty penny to have one in your home gym. If you’re interested in one of their offerings, you have to reach out for a quote before purchasing. 

3G Cardio: We haven’t tested any treadmills from 3G Cardio before, but they currently have three options to choose from on their website. If you actually intend to use their machines for commercial purposes, your warranty goes down significantly. 

How We Picked and Tested the Best Treadmills

While testing any fitness equipment, we’re always sure to ask ourselves a variety of questions. This helps us analyze every facet of a machine and give you the pertinent information you may need to make a decision. Check out the things we took a close look at for these commercial treadmills:

  • Deck size: How large is the deck? Is this best for walkers, joggers, or runners? Will the running surface support taller users?
  • Cushioning: Is the deck well-cushioned or is it more similar to the experience of running outside? Does the deck have shock absorption? 
  • Construction: Does the machine have a steel frame? What materials is it made out of?
  • Brand: What is the brand of the treadmill? Is this a well-known treadmill brand like LifeSpan, Sole Fitness, ProForm, Horizon Fitness, or NordicTrack? Can I buy this machine on Amazon or at other major retailers?
  • Price: What is the cost of the treadmill? Is it considered a budget, mid-range, or high-end option in terms of price range?
  • Motor: How powerful is the motor’s horsepower? Is it 3.0 CHP or higher? 
  • Footprint: What is the overall size or footprint of the machine? Is it the right size for apartment or condo residents or only best for someone in a larger space? 
  • Portability: Does the machine have transport wheels? Is it foldable?
  • Financing options: Are there financing options? Who are the financing options through? 
  • Programming: Is there native, interactive programming on this treadmill? How expensive is the programming per month or per year? Are there any built-in workouts? Will you get a free 30-day trial of Peloton programming or an iFIT membership with your purchase?
  • User experience: How is the running experience? Does it feel like a quality treadmill for the price point? Can you watch Netflix on the screen or just view interactive programming? Are there any engaging training programs or are they run-of-the-mill options?
  • Display: Is the display a touchscreen, LED, or LCD screen? How large is the display?
  • Speed: What is the speed range on this machine? What is the top speed?
  • Incline/decline: Does the machine have incline and decline? If so, what are they?
  • Warranty: What is the warranty length? How does this compare to the industry standard? 
  • Weight: How heavy is the treadmill? How will this affect the moving process?
  • User weight capacity: How much weight can the treadmill hold?
  • Extras: Does this treadmill come with a heart rate monitor? Does it have Bluetooth connectivity? Is there a device or tablet holder?

Benefits of Commercial Treadmills

Owning a commercial treadmill isn’t cheap, but there are a variety of benefits to having one. Just ask personal trainer (and GGR writer) Lauren Strong.

“One of the biggest benefits I see from owning a commercial treadmill is the length of the running deck,” Lauren explains. “A commercial-sized deck doesn’t feel awkward or limit my natural gait. I also like the fact that commercial treadmills feel sturdy, durable, and are built-to-last.”

Commercial treadmills may be out-of-reach for some, but if you can afford one, they will last for a while. Most of them are constructed with durable materials like steel, and are created to withstand lots of usage. You won’t have to worry about the deck shaking or the motor failing as quickly as a non-commercial option.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Commercial Treadmills

If you’re looking to choose your own commercial treadmill, here are the top four things to keep in mind before buying:

Deck Size

Most commercial treadmills have a deck that hits or exceeds the industry standard of at least 55 inches for walking and 60 inches for running. However, some commercial treadmills have an even longer deck. If you’re particularly tall or have a long stride, make sure to get a suitably sized deck for a more comfortable workout.  

Durability

Durability is another component to consider before choosing a commercial treadmill to purchase. Obviously, you won’t know how a machine will hold up except with the passage of time. However, there are some things you can look out for that will clue you in to the overall durability.

Check to see that the motor is at least 3.0 horsepower or higher. This lets you know that the treadmill will be able to support serious running. You should also take a look at the materials used to build the machine. Treadmills constructed with large amounts of plastic are not usually very durable, so keep your eyes peeled for machines made with steel. 

Warranty

The industry standard for a treadmill frame warranty is at least 15 years. This is around what you should expect on most commercial machines. I recommend reading each warranty carefully–some companies like NordicTrack will void your warranty if you put any of their machines in the garage. 

Commercial Treadmills FAQs

How much do commercial treadmills cost?

You’ll find commercial treadmill brands offering machines typically between $2,000 to $4,000. Depending on the model you purchase, you may pay upwards of $5,000 or more. I would establish your budget ahead of time or check for financing options. Commercial treadmills aren’t cheap.

How long are commercial treadmill’s belts?

Generally speaking, I like to see at least 55 inches for a treadmill someone plans to walk or jog on. Most commercial treadmills are at least that, if not 60 inches. This makes it simpler to take longer strides, or for taller people to be able to run and walk with ease.

Can a compact treadmill be a commercial treadmill?

Most commercial machines do not fold, which doesn’t make them a compact option. If you’re looking for a treadmill that will fold or compact in some capacity, buying a non-commercial machine may be the best choice for you.

What is the difference between commercial treadmills and regular treadmills?

A commercial treadmill is one that could withstand commercial use. That means you could put a commercial treadmill in gyms, have multiple people run on it every day, all year round, and it would still perform.

Typically, a commercial treadmill will have a powerful motor of at least 3.0 CHP, a high weight capacity of 300 pounds or more, generous speed and incline ranges, and a nice display. There usually isn’t any such thing as a light commercial treadmill; these are heavy machines.

Conversely, treadmills specifically for home use may not offer these features because they may not need to (and they are often more affordable).

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