We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.

I have a confession to make: I love running on the treadmill. Turning up the music and jacking up the speed for some interval training is what I live for on cardio days. Plus, my reconstructed ankle appreciates the extra cushioning of a treadmill versus the pain-inducing (in my opinion) concrete or pavement. 

After testing a dizzying amount of these machines, my ankle and I have compiled seven contenders for best home treadmill for running. This list has something for nearly everyone: whether you’re looking for an option with interactive programming, the best folding treadmill, or are on a budget, we have you covered. 

Our team at Garage Gym Reviews has run (and sweat) on some of the best treadmills for your home gym. We are certified personal trainers, marathon runners, and product experts who evaluate things like:

  • Durability: Does it have a good weight capacity of at least 300 pounds and have a strong motor?
  • Speed and Incline Range: Can it be used by beginners and advanced runners?
  • Programming: While not essential, high-quality workout programming can enhance your treadmill experience.
  • Ergonomics: Does it have a cushioned deck and a wide running area?
  • Noise: Can you use it while people are sleeping or does it sound like a herd of elephants?

We’re familiar with the industry standards in every category and are sure to point out the positives and negatives on each machine we recommend. 

For more information on how we analyze cardio machines, check our our GGR fitness equipment testing methodology.

7 Best Home Treadmills For Running 

Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Good for: People who want programming, decline, cushioning options and solid construction.

Best Overall

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.

I won’t lie, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 has my heart. It’s one of the best overall treadmills I’ve ever tried. Naturally, it’s unsurprising that it’s a dream to run on. With a hefty 3.5 CHP motor and 60-inch belt, the 1750 is well equipped to handle everything from a light jog to an all-out sprint. 

RELATED: The Best NordicTrack Treadmills

The belt itself is unique in that you can switch the cushioning on and off to simulate running outdoors, which can be super helpful if you’re training for a race. Plus, the 1750 has both incline and decline options to further challenge you during your workout. I also like that the max speed is 12 MPH, which is above the industry average of 10 MPH.

If you’re someone who loves interactive programming on a home treadmill for running, the 1750 has you covered with a 14-inch touchscreen and iFIT compatibility (subscription sold separately). I do wish the screen was slightly bigger, but that’s more of a personal preference. For comparison, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 has a 22-inch screen. You will have to pay an additional $600 for the 2950 if a bigger screen is important to you. 

coop jogging on NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The price tag is expensive on the 1750; expect to pay close to $2,500 for your new treadmill. However, I do like that NordicTrack has financing options. You can break your payment up into more manageable, monthly increments for around $49 per month. 

Now for something I’m not nuts about: the assembly. Geez Louise, please don’t try to assemble this on your own. Seriously. Grab a friend, your mom, or your neighbor that you bribe with cookies to help. The 1750 is really heavy at 339 pounds, and the individual pieces are tough to unbox on your own. If you can afford it, the extra $199 for professional assembly from NordicTrack may be worth it. It’ll certainly save you (and whatever individual you could rope into helping you) a sweaty Saturday. 

Read all our thoughts in the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review.

Footprint80” L x 38” W x 65” H
Weight Capacity300 lbs
Speed Range0 to 12 MPH
Incline/Decline-3% to 12%
Screen14″ HD touchscreen
Motor3.5 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor
Warranty10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

Best Budget Treadmill for Running: Sole F63

Good for: People who want a reliable treadmill that’s under $1,000.

Best Budget

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.

The Sole F63 is a great running treadmill for right around $1,000. I know, I know; $1,000 is still a lot of cheddar, I agree. However, if you want a treadmill used for running, going too cheap will mean sacrificing elements that are crucial to supporting your exercise. For example, the running surface. The F63 has a 60-inch deck, which can accommodate a variety of stride lengths comfortably.

A lot of the best budget treadmills have a super short deck or weak motor, which can make more intense cardio difficult to do. The Sole F63 also has a strong 3.0 CHP motor, 15 levels of incline, and a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. I like that this machine folds for easier storage. However, it’s a heavy treadmill at over 250 pounds, so you might need help to move it.  

RELATED: How to move a treadmill

Coop running on the Sole F63 treadmill

If you don’t have a fitness tracker, the Sole F63 comes with a strap heart rate monitor, which I think is a nice extra for the price. It’s Bluetooth-compatible, so you’ll be able to keep track of your heart rate while you run. 

The LCD display isn’t my favorite, but for the price of this affordable treadmill for running at home, it’s unsurprising that there is not a touchscreen. It’s not that the display is necessarily bad or unusable, but it doesn’t look caught up with today’s technologies. It reminds me quite a bit of an early 2000’s LCD monitor on a treadmill you’d see in a gym. You can still use the device holder to watch your own programming if you choose since there isn’t a touchscreen. 

Want to learn more? Take a look at my full Sole F63 Treadmill review

Footprint66” H x 82” L x 35” W
Weight Capacity325 lbs
Speed Range.5-12 mph
Incline/Decline0 to 15%
ScreenLCD Display
Motor3.0 HP
WarrantyLifetime warranty on steel frame and motor; 3 years for deck, electronics, and parts; 1 year for labor

Best Peloton Tread Alternative: Horizon 7.4 AT

Good for: People looking for the bells and whistles of the Peloton tread at a lesser price.

Best Peloton Tread Alternative

Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.2 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Foldable design
  • Deck cushioning
  • 12 mph top speed
  • Incline up to 15%
  • 350 lb use weight capacity
  • 22" W x 60" L running area
  • Built-in workout programs
  • Lifetime frame and motor warranty

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Generously sized running deck of 60 inches
  • User weight capacity of 350 lbs
  • Foldable
  • Sturdy and doesn't shake much while in use
  • Powerful 3.5 CHP motor

Cons

  • Large and not made for compact spaces
  • Heavy at 318 lbs
  • Lack of touchscreen/interactive programming

Bottom Line

If you're a serious runner and want a foldable treadmill you can trust, I would strongly recommend the Horizon 7.4. Although it doesn't have all the extra technology features (like interactive programming or a touchscreen) it is a well-build machine with a powerful motor.

For a treadmill that can support interactive programming like Peloton without the Tread’s price tag, the Horizon 7.4 AT is a solid option. This $1,600 running treadmill—which is $900 less than the Tread—can connect with a variety of fitness apps like Peloton, Zwift, Studio, CardioCast, and more. You can also watch Netflix, Hulu, or Disney + on your tablet and play the audio via Bluetooth over the speakers.

RELATED: The Best Running Apps

I like that you can actually use almost any program you want and have it sync to the 7.4 AT for things like metrics, heart rate, speed, and sound. This makes the 7.4 AT an even more versatile option than purchasing something like a high-end Peloton, even though you have to use your own device.

horizon 7.4 treadmill in use

The actual treadmill has a lot going for it besides connectivity to popular apps. The 60-inch deck allows a variety of heights to comfortably use this machine for any type of running. Plus, the quick selector dial allows you to change the incline and speed in a flash. This is a big plus because waiting for the treadmill to catch up speed wise on intervals and missing a few seconds of a sprint is a definite pet peeve for me. 

I do need to warn you: this treadmill is MASSIVE. I’m talking 350 pounds unboxed and close to 400 pounds when it arrives at your doorstep (or inside). Please, for the love of fitness, do not try to assemble or lift this machine by yourself. I’m so serious. You will regret it. This absolutely needs one or two additional people to make transporting and assembling the 7.4 AT a smooth process. 

To read more, check out my Horizon 7.4 Studio Tread Review. Or if you’d still like to compare the two machines, check out my in-depth Peloton Tread review.

Footprint76” L x 37” W x 63” H 
Weight Capacity350 lbs
Speed Range.5 to 12 MPH
Incline/Decline0 to 15%
ScreenLCD display
Motor3.5 CHP
WarrantyFrame and motor: lifetime; parts: 5 years; labor: 2 years

Best Treadmill for Running with Programming: ProForm Pro 9000

Good for: People who want a touchscreen on their treadmill to view interactive programming.

Best with Programming

ProForm Pro 9000

GGR Score: 4.5 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Compatible with iFIT
  • Powerful motor
  • Foldable treadmill
  • Large 22-inch HD displays
  • Handsfree incline/speed adjustments

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Large 22-inch display
  • Compatible with iFIT
  • Incline and decline training available
  • Cushioned deck
  • Fan and water bottle holder
  • Bluetooth speakers

Cons

  • Priced around $1,800
  • iFIT subscription is an additional cost
  • Heavy machine with a big footprint
  • You cannot store or use this treadmill in your garage without voiding the warranty

Bottom Line

The ProForm Pro 9000 is a powerful, pricey treadmill great for those who want interactive programming from a reliable machine.

If you’re looking for solid interactive programming on a durable treadmill, the ProForm Pro 9000 passes the test with flying colors. The 22-inch touchscreen is user-friendly and connects to iFIT (which you get a free 30-day trial of with purchase). The classes you can take aren’t limited to a studio; I enjoyed running with the instructors in a variety of settings outdoors, which kept my interest and honestly made the best treadmill workouts more bearable. 

I am also a fan of the easy-to-read metrics displayed at the top of the screen. You can view your incline, calories burned, time elapsed, speed, and distance running. Plus, the quick change for the incline, decline, and speed makes it easier to focus on the workout at hand versus fumbling with the controls.

Coop running on the Proform Pro 9000 treadmill

I did have some difficulty getting the Wi-Fi of the Pro 9000 to connect, and based on customer reviews, I wasn’t alone in that struggle. It is also worth noting that if you don’t want your warranty voided, then you CANNOT store this machine in your garage. 

The Pro 9000 can be folded and stored off to the side, but it’s a heavy machine. I struggled to move the 263-pound treadmill by myself. I’d grab a friend if you need to move it for any reason. 

Check out my full ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill review.

Footprint77.3″ L x 35.5″ W x 59.6″ H
Weight Capacity300 lbs
Speed Range0 to 12 MPH
Incline/Decline-3% decline to 12% incline
Screen22″ HD touchscreen
Motor3.6 CHP Mach Z™
Warranty10-Year Frame, 2-Year Parts, & 1-Year Labor

Best Manual Treadmill for Running: TrueForm Trainer

Good for: People looking to improve their running form.

Best Manual

TrueForm Trainer

GGR Score: 4.4 starstarstarstarstar
Community Score: 4.2 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Well-designed treadmill to help refine running form
  • Smooth belt
  • Expensive, but worth the money
  • Not made in the USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Curved running surface to promote better form
  • Durable frame
  • Hefty weight capacity
  • Excellent for HIIT and sprints
  • 60 percent more affordable than the TrueForm Runner

Cons

  • Costs around $3,000
  • Non-motorized treadmill
  • Basic monitor
  • No preset workouts

Bottom Line

The TrueForm Trainer is a unique treadmill designed to help runners improve their form.

I’ll be the first to admit: in college, I frequently had shin splints because I ran with terrible form. How I played a college sport sometimes baffles me (with such garbage running form), but that’s not the point. If I had access to the TrueForm Trainer at the time, my running form could have been improved and the shin splints may have been more minimal.

RELATED: Good Running Form for Beginners

The shallow curve of this manual treadmill forces you to strike midfoot, which is the proper way to run to best steer clear of injuries. Check out the POSE method of running for a better idea of how to improve your form.

Trueform trainer photo in a gym.

I love manual treadmills because you are in full control of how quickly you go. You can do an all-out sprint and then immediately bring it down to a light jog in seconds. The TrueForm Trainer is also special in that it has a high maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds, which makes it possible to do weighted farmers carries safely. 

The additional functionality of the Trainer makes it an awesome manual treadmill, but it comes with a steep price tag of almost $4,000. Not only is it expensive, but it’s also really bulky. It cannot be folded for easy storage, so you’ll need to make sure you have a proper place for the Trainer to stay all the time. 

The LCD display is also basic for the price. I’m not expecting Netflix and an iFIT membership on every running treadmill, but the monitor of the Trainer is as bare bones as one you’d see on a $300 machine.

Check out my full TrueForm Trainer Treadmill review.

Footprint64″ L x 36″ W x 63″ H
Weight Capacity400 lbs
Speed RangeManual
Incline/Declinen/a
ScreenSmall LCD display
Motorn/a
WarrantyLifetime frame; 10 years tread; 2 years monitor

Best Folding Treadmill for Running: Echelon Stride-s Auto Fold Smart Treadmill

Good for: People who are tight on space but want a treadmill that is good for running.

Best Folding

Echelon Stride-s Auto-Fold Smart Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.3 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

At $1,600, the Echelon Stride-s won't break the bank while providing aspects of a higher end treadmill, like interactive programming and an HD touchscreen.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Folds compactly to 10” tall 
  • Longer deck than the Stride at 59”
  • 3.5 CHP motor
  • HD touchscreen

Cons

  • Echelon almost “requires” you to purchase a monthly membership at checkout. 
  • Only 5-year motor warranty and 1 year on parts and labor
  • As of the publication of this writing, it is currently on pre-order only for the general public.

Bottom Line

The Echelon Stride-s is a great option for people who want to run at home.

As someone who’s used the original Echelon Stride treadmill, I was intrigued to find out a new edition was being released with updated features: the Echelon Stride-s Auto Fold Smart Treadmill. I’ll detail some of the key differences between the two. 

RELATED: The Best Treadmill for Low Ceilings

It’s worth noting that the Stride-s is currently only available for pre-order at the time of this publication (March 2023). There is another in the Stride line, the 5s, which is about $1,000 more, which is comparable in price to the Peloton Tread. We do like that the 5s has a 24-inch HD touchscreen, 3.0 CHP, and speeds up to 12.5 MPH.

The main reason we’re smitten with Echelon’s line of treadmills? They all fold to 10 inches flat, making them a great option for almost anyone with a small space.

The Echelon Stride folded flat

The reason we don’t recommend the original Stride for runners is because it only has a 1.75 CHP motor, which wouldn’t sustain serious running. 

The Stride-s is a better option for running versus the original Stride due to its sizable increase in horsepower (1.75 CHP to 3.5 CHP). The Stride-s also has a longer deck at 59-inches for easier jogging, running, or sprinting. Additionally, the Stride-s has a 10-inch touchscreen, whereas the Stride does not. 

In terms of price, the actual machines are only $200 apart from each other. However, I noticed while checking out that you are almost forced to purchase an Echelon Premier Membership with the Stride-s. They have you choose between monthly, annually, or every two years, which can range from $34.99 per month to $29.16 per month. I did not see a way to opt out of this “add on,” which is something to keep in mind when factoring cost into your decision. 

Curious about the original Stride? Check out our full, in-depth Echelon Stride review

Footprint69.3″ L × 31″ W × 49.2″ H
Weight Capacity300 lbs
Speed Range0 to 12 MPH
Incline/Decline0 to 10%
ScreenLCD windows
Motor1.75 CHP
Warranty1 year

Best Compact Treadmill for Running: Sunny Health and Fitness (SF-T4400)

Good for: People who need a smaller treadmill for a home gym that can be stored with ease.

Best Compact

Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400

GGR Score: 3.6 starstarstarstarstar

Product Highlights

  • Under $500
  • Has manual incline options
  • Compact and folds
  • Speeds up to 9 MPH

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Has incline
  • Folds easily
  • Very compact
  • Tread comes with shock absorption
  • Quick-speed buttons on the handrail

Cons

  • User weight capacity is 220 lbs
  • Top speed of 9 MPH
  • No decline option

Bottom Line

A great walking treadmill that can be easily folded and used in small spaces.

Tight on space and don’t know how to fit a treadmill into your home gym? The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is here to help! This compact option folds and only weighs 103 pounds. Plus, it unfolds with a simple tap to the supporting pole underneath the machine. I really like that you don’t have to worry about straining yourself to unfold the SF-T4400; the soft drop mechanism takes care of all the work for you.

RELATED: The Best Folding Treadmills

The $450 price tag is very appealing, especially when the option to finance through Affirm is thrown in there as well. However, a cheap price tag does usually mean compromising on a few things when it comes to a running treadmill. The deck of this compact machine is 50-inches, which isn’t bad (compared to other budget friendly treadmills with shorter decks) but it won’t accommodate taller people as easily for running.

Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill

The controls on the SF-T4400 are very user-friendly. The handles give you the option to conveniently change your speed, plus stop and start the treadmill at your command. I think this makes it a solid option for a beginner because it’s really easy to get started on without any complicated programming or technology. 

With a max speed of 9 MPH, this treadmill can definitely be used for jogging and running, but I wouldn’t recommend sprinting on it. If you’re just getting started with your fitness journey and want to work on slow and steady running, this is a great option for you without going overboard on cost. If you’re a more serious runner or a taller individual, I’d recommend selecting something else.

Check out our entire Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill Review.

Footprint62” L x 25.5” W x 50” H 
Weight Capacity220 lbs
Speed Range.5 to 9 MPH
Incline/Decline3 levels
ScreenLCD display
MotorUnlisted
Warranty3 Year Structural Frame, 180 Days Other Parts And Components

Other Treadmills We Researched

The treadmills mentioned above aren’t the only ones we looked into. Here are a few others that we researched but didn’t make our list:

Bowflex Treadmill 10: This treadmill can definitely be used for running; with a 3.0 CHP motor and incline and decline options, it’s not a bad option. At $1,600, we expect a little more from the touchscreen (it’s only 10-inches). Plus, it’s 325 pounds with an 85 x 40 x 65.5 inches footprint, so it isn’t a good option for people with small spaces. (Check out our full and in-depth Bowflex Treadmill 10 review).  

AssaultRunner Elite: CrossFit fans may be familiar with this almost $4,000 manual treadmill. After all, it’s beloved by many athletes and for good reason: it’s a solid piece of equipment (albeit an expensive treadmill). However, if you’re looking to purchase a manual treadmill for the same price, I prefer the TrueForm Trainer because it helps you run with better form. 

Coop running on the AssaultRunner Elite treadmill

Nautilus T618 Treadmill: Let’s start with the most important factor—the T618 was recalled on June 9, 2023, after users reported issues of the treadmill self-starting. It requires a software update from the company to be safe to use again. But, after taking care of the safety concerns, the T618 does have some green flags when it comes to things I look for in a running treadmill: It has a 60-inch deck, 350-pound weight capacity, and a great frame and motor warranty. I do wish for the $1,500 price tag there was a touchscreen included, because the backlit display feels basic. (Full Nautilus T618 Treadmill review here.)

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill: As a super budget option for home use, I was pretty impressed with the Goplus. At under $400, this foldable treadmill boasts a 2.25 CHP motor, is lightweight, and easy to move on your own. However, I personally wouldn’t be comfortable running on the Goplus, as the 40-inch deck and 8 MPH max speed don’t really work for me. This isn’t to say you couldn’t run on it, but if you’re taller, you might have a rough time.

RELATED: Goplus Treadmill review

Coop walking on the Goplus treadmill in his office.

UREVO 2-in-1 Treadmill: For a budget-friendly treadmill you can easily pick up on Amazon, the UREVO hits the mark at under $500. Plus, it’s a compact treadmill I’d recommend for beginners. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for running, especially if you’re 5’9” or taller because the deck is very short at 42 inches.

Caroline on the UREVO 2 in 1 treadmill

RELATED: UREVO Treadmill Review

How We Picked and Tested

Since this is a list of the top treadmills for runners, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that these treadmills received the full gamut. I jogged, ran, and sprinted on a variety of machines (as did Coop and my fellow GGR writers) to first see how our workout experiences were. Don’t get it twisted; that was the first of many things we evaluated to see if a treadmill would make the cut. Here are some of the other considerations we took into account:

  • Price range
  • Compactness
  • User weight capacity
  • Warranty
  • Specs (Like footprint)
  • 2.5 horsepower motor or greater
  • Preset programs
  • Display (LCD screen or touchscreen display)
  • Portability
  • Assembly
  • Delivery
  • Available adjustments
  • Extras (Cupholders, Bluetooth speakers, tablet holder)

Benefits Of Using A Treadmill For Running

Still trying to decide if spending the extra cash on a running treadmill is worth it? Check out some of the treadmill benefits you could reap with adding one to your home gym:

Improved Cardiovascular Function

Running not only improves endurance but also can give you better heart health. Studies have shown regular running can reduce your risk of cardiovascular diseases1.

Losing Weight

Running on a treadmill is an efficient way to burn calories. This means it can be an additional tool used to help you possibly lose weight. Please remember that losing weight consists of both exercising and a nutritious diet, so consult a medical professional with any questions you may have if you’re trying to lose weight. 

You’re in Control

Calling all control freaks (yes, I’m calling myself out here, too): you can control pretty much every aspect of your run with a treadmill. Switch the speed, incline, programming, and music at your own leisure. You don’t need to stress about being stuck in traffic on the way to the gym, or the impending thunderstorm that could derail an outdoor run. With a running treadmill in your home, you run the show.

Speed Training

Trying to get faster and beat a personal record? You can do interval training and sprints with ease. Speed training can even be ramped up with incline settings to mimic an outdoor or trail run.

Running Outside vs. on a Treadmill

Trying to decide if you should buy a treadmill to run on or just hit the pavement outside? Here are some of the pros and cons of treadmill running versus outdoor running. 

Coop running on the Tru Grit Grit Runner for the Tru Grit Runner review

Pros of Treadmill Running

  • Controlled environment (You are in charge of the incline, decline, and speed) 
  • You don’t have to deal with the elements
  • The cushioning provided by many treadmills can be easier on joints than running outside.
  • Safer than running alone outdoors
  • Interactive programming options are easier to use on a treadmill

Pros of Running Outside

  • Fresh air
  • Practical for training for outdoor races
  • Free and doesn’t require equipment
  • Change of environment 

Cons of Treadmill Running

  • Can be expensive to buy a treadmill
  • Space concerns
  • Staying in one spot for a run can get boring
  • Doesn’t always accurate simulate something accurately like a marathon/other race

Cons of Running Outside

  • Higher impact than treadmill running
  • Unknown dangers (Other people, environment)
  • Contingent on the weather
  • Easier to get hurt because of a changing environment 

RELATED: Treadmill vs Outside Running

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Home Treadmill for Running

If you’re a runner (or an aspiring runner), choosing the right treadmill for your home gym can be an exciting and stressful choice. Here are some things to consider when picking out your ideal fit:

Budget

Generally speaking, you can get away with a lower quality treadmill if you only plan to walk on it. Most high-quality treadmills I’d recommend for running are close to $1,000 and over. If you really want to get a treadmill with a large enough deck, high enough powered motor, and a solid warranty, I’d suggest spending a little extra upfront. 

Deck Size

If you plan to run on your treadmill, getting a machine with at least a 55 inch deck is important. I’d personally recommend a 60 inch deck if you’re taller, but that’s personal preference. You want your deck to be long enough to support longer strides so you can focus on the workout at hand (and not falling off the treadmill). 

Showing how short the UREVO treadmill deck is

Programming

Some of the treadmills I mentioned above have a built-in touchscreen with which to view interactive programming on. However, others have a device holder you can use to hold your own phone or tablet in and watch your own workout classes. Some treadmills have Bluetooth connectivity where you can sync your device to the machine to accurately track your incline, speed, and calories burned. 

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 screen.

Incline and Decline Options

Incline options are fairly common on running treadmills. Decline options are slightly more rare, and usually come on higher-priced machines. Having the ability to do both on a treadmill can be useful for people training for a race and need to simulate running up and down hills.

Speed

A good running treadmill has at least a max speed of 10 MPH. More advanced runners will want to look for a max of at least 12 MPH to support all out sprinting efforts. 

RELATED: HIIT Treadmill Workout

Motor

For a treadmill that can support running, having a powerful motor of over 2.5 CHP is critical. A treadmill that has less than that will struggle to last with repeated running.

Display

There are usually only a few options when it comes to treadmill displays: HD touch screens or LCD displays. If you really want to have the option to watch built-in interactive programming, purchasing a treadmill with a touch screen makes more sense for you.

Lifepro Pacer display on the treadmill.

Weight Capacity

I would recommend getting a treadmill that has at least a 275-pound weight capacity. More would ideally be nice (in case you want to do weighted farmers carries) but that’s the industry standard for a running treadmill.

Warranty

The best treadmills have a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. Depending on your personal price point, you may have to make some compromises on the warranty your treadmill has.
Have more questions on what you should look for in your new treadmill? Check out our comprehensive treadmill buying guide.

Best Home Treadmill for Running: FAQs

What size treadmill do I need for running?

I’d suggest getting a 55+ inch long deck to run on. Getting anything smaller will make your strides shorter and you slower while running.

Is 2.5 CHP good for a running treadmill?

I would say 2.5 CHP is the bare minimum I’d recommend for a running treadmill. Anything less will have difficulties powering serious running or sprinting.

Which treadmills are the best for home use?

We often recommend popular brands like Horizon Fitness, Sole Fitness, ProForm, and NordicTrack who produce some of the best (GGR-approved) treadmills for home use.

What home treadmills are best for running?

You’ll want to look for a sturdy treadmill that won’t wobble as you reach top speeds with an ample running deck that can support a longer stride length or gait. Deck cushioning is also a great-to-have since you’ll be coming down harder on your feet and ankles than you would when using your treadmill for walking.

Here’s our list of the best home treadmills for running:

Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Best Budget Treadmill for Running: Sole F63
Best Peloton Tread Alternative: Horizon 7.4 AT
Best Treadmill for Running with Programming: ProForm Pro 9000
Best Manual Treadmill for Running: TrueForm Trainer
Best Folding Treadmill for Running: Echelon Stride-s Auto Fold Smart Treadmill
Best Compact Treadmill for Running: Sunny Health and Fitness (SF-T4400)

Are home treadmills effective?

Yes, they certainly can be, especially when you use your home treadmill consistently. Home treadmills also boast several fitness benefits, such as improvements in cardiovascular function, increased calorie burn, and reduced risk of joint pain or injury. That, and they’re convenient and nearly weather-proof.

References

  1. Cantwell JD. Cardiovascular aspects of running. Clin Sports Med. 1985 Oct;4(4):627-40. PMID: 3902253.

Further reading

Weight Training for Women: Build Muscle, Confidence, and Community Cover Image
Weight Training for Women: Build Muscle, Confidence, and Community

Weight training for women is important, yet many women are hesitant to start. Here’s your beginner-friendly guide. Read more

Is Creatine a Steroid? An RD Answers Your Question Cover Image
Is Creatine a Steroid? An RD Answers Your Question

Is creatine a steroid? Considering its ability to promote muscle growth, creatine may seem like one. A registered dietitian sets the record straight. Read more

19 Tips and Tricks on How to Soundproof a Home Gym Cover Image
19 Tips and Tricks on How to Soundproof a Home Gym

If you’re getting noise complaints from the neighbors or roommates about your garage gym, here’s some solutions on how to soundproof a home gym. Read more

Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Review (2024): Is This All-In-One Pre-Workout Worth the Price? Cover Image
Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Review (2024): Is This All-In-One Pre-Workout Worth the Price?

For this Kaged Pre-Kaged Elite Review, we tested a pre-workout that has a reputation for being one of the highest in quality. Take a look at what we found. Read more