At Garage Gym Reviews, we believe fitness is for everyone, and it can make a huge difference in your life. Studies1 have even shown that exercise can contribute to increased life satisfaction and happiness. If walking or running is a part of this journey for you, we can help. We’ve found the best treadmill for heavy people so you can crush your goals––whatever they may be.
Whether you’re an advanced athlete or a beginner who has never stepped foot on a treadmill, you deserve to enjoy movement. With a qualified group of people at the helm, we won’t steer you in the wrong direction. After all, our roster of certified personal trainers, former college athletes, and nutrition coaches has helped more than 7,300 people buy treadmills in 2024 alone.
We’ve tested and researched over 50 treadmills and rated them using a 1 to 5 scoring system according to our fitness equipment testing methodology. We assess key factors such as:
- Durability: Is the treadmill well-made? Does it remain stable during use? We give a perfect rating for models that offer supreme stability.
- Speed and incline range: Is the treadmill suitable for both walking and running? Is there a wide incline range to add variety to your training? To get a 5-out-of-5 rating, we like to see at least 10 MPH and 10 incline settings.
- Dynamic programming: Does the treadmill offer virtual programming? To get a 3 out of 5, it must have (at least) a few built-in workouts.
- Tech capabilities and conveniences: Does the treadmill have conveniences like a water bottle holder and cooling fans? Does it come with Bluetooth speakers? We give higher scores to treadmills that have multiple water bottle holders, storage shelves, touchscreen consoles and smart controls.
We also consulted with GGR Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, and exercise physiologist Dr. Chris Mohr, RD, to discuss how regular exercise can help with your fitness goals.
Best Treadmills for Heavy People
- Best Overall Treadmill for Heavy People – Sole F80 Treadmill
- Best High-Capacity Treadmill for Heavy People – Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
- Best Treadmill for Heavy Walkers – Bowflex Treadmill 10
- Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Programming – Peloton Cross-Training Tread
- Best Durable Treadmill for Heavy People – NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
Current Top Deals
- Sole F80 Treadmill – 25th Anniversary Sale (Save hundreds on select cardio equipment) – Sale end
- Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill – Up to 35% off
- Peloton Cross-Training Tread – Bundle and save up to $200 in accessories
Compare Side By Side
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Sole F80 | Horizon 7.8 AT | Bowflex Treadmill 10 | Peloton Tread | NordicTrack Commercial 2450 | |
|
Rating
|
|||||
| Speed Range | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0 – 12 mph | 0 – 12.5 mph | 0 – 14 mph |
| Incline Range | 15 levels | 0% – 15% | -5% – 15% | 0% – 12.5% | -3% – 12% |
| Deck Size | 60″ L x 22″ W | 60″ L x 22″ W | 59″ L x 20″ W | 60″ L x 22″ W | |
| Foldable? | — | — | |||
| Programs | 10 preset workouts, 12 user-defined options | 10 preset programs | JRNY | Peloton | iFIT |
| Display | 10.1″ touchscreen | 9.3″ high contrast color screen | 10″ adjustable HD touchscreen | 23.8″ full HD touchscreen | 24″ pivoting touchscreen |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck, parts, and wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | Lifetime frame and motor, 5-year parts, 2-year labor | 15-year frame, 5-year mechanical parts, 2-year labor, 1-year electronics and touchscreen | 5-year frame, 3-year motor and belt, 1-year touchscreen and most original components | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor |
Editor’s Note
At Garage Gym Reviews, we are always testing the newest treadmills and updating this page to reflect our top picks. Our team of certified personal trainers, elite athletes, and home gym experts has tested more than 50 treadmills to determine which profiles are worthy of taking up real estate in your home gym. In September 2025, we updated our lineup to include the Bowflex Treadmill 10 as the best treadmill for heavy walkers. We also upgraded each mini review with more detailed testing notes and ratings to deliver the most complete, evidence-based information possible.
Best Overall Treadmill for Heavy People: Sole F80
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
What the Sole F80 lacks in technology, it more than makes up for in durability and performance. With a 3.5 horsepower motor and a 60 inch long running deck, the Sole F80 is a great option for dedicated endurance athletes.
What our tester says:
“Off the top of my head, I can’t think of another motorized treadmill that has a weight capacity of 375 pounds. This is really unique and allows a lot of people to use it.”
At a Glance
- Spacious running deck
- Excellent incline capabilities
- 10″ touchscreen display and Bluetooth speakers
- Foldable design with lifetime frame and motor warranty
Our pick for the best overall treadmill for heavy people, the Sole F80, is a rock-solid machine that has a 350-pound user weight capacity—30 pounds more than the average treadmill. Meanwhile, the 3.5-horsepower (HP) motor supports a variety of sustained cardio activities. “It can withstand a lot of volume running at intense speeds,” says GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC. With a 10-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging capabilities, and other user-friendly features, the F80 earns a strong overall rating of 4 out of 5.
Durability: 4/5
Dynamic Programming: 4/5
Footprint & Portability: 4/5
Why We Like the Sole F80
The powerful motor and above-average weight capacity aren’t the only reasons to like the F80. You also get a lengthy 22-inch-by-60-inch deck, which is good for those who need more width on their treadmill or those who have longer strides. Earning a 4-out-of-5 rating for tech capabilities, Lindsay loved the wireless phone charging functionality, as the F80 allows you to do screen mirroring with your phone. This is particularly useful if you want to take advantage of the free Sole+ app, which earned a 4-out-of-5 score for dynamic programming.
“If you’re using your phone with the screen mirroring application, you’re definitely going to want to keep your phone charged,” says Lindsay. “It’s really handy to have that feature.”
We also love that Sole Fitness provides a lifetime warranty on the frame, deck, and motor for this well-priced cardio machine. For just under $2,000, you get a foldable treadmill that can reach 12 MPH, go as high as a 15% incline, and support users up to 350 pounds. As a result, the Sole F80 earns a 4-out-of-5 value rating.
Even when it’s in the upright position, you’re easily able to move it around with the four attached wheels.
GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
Although the F80 earned at least a 4-out-of-5 rating in all but three categories, we have a few minor callouts. While Sole claims the cushioned deck reduces impact up to 40%, Lindsay didn’t notice a drastic difference compared to other treadmills she’s tested. “I’d say it’s somewhere in the middle between a really-cushioned treadmill and a non-cushioned treadmill,” she explains.
Furthermore, you’ll need to look elsewhere if you want decline capabilities. “Even a 3% decline would be really great, but it does meet that 15% incline grade, so you’re able to get a good booty burn from it, at least,” Lindsay notes.
If you want to include decline training in your routine, check out the Bowflex Treadmill 10, which can be set as low as -5%.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how the Sole F80 scored based on our fitness equipment testing methodology.
Vs. The Average
The Sole F80 is priced exactly on-par with the market. It offers a higher weight capacity, better speed and incline capabilities, and a larger running deck than the average home treadmill.
| Sole F80 | Average Treadmill | |
| Manufacturer Price | $1,900 | $1,900 |
| User Weight Capacity | 350 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Top Incline | 15% | 12% |
| Top Speed | 12 MPH | 10 MPH |
| Running Belt | 22” W x 60” L | 18” W x 55” L |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor warranty | 10 years |
Check out our full Sole F80 treadmill review for the inside scoop.
Best High-Capacity Treadmill for Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
The Horizon 7.8 AT has a large deck and high weight capacity, making it a great choice for users who seek both space and durability.
At a Glance
- High weight capacity of 375 pounds
- Supports streaming on-demand fitness classes
- 9.3” full color display + Bluetooth connectivity
- Foldable design with lifetime frame and motor warranty
The Horizon 7.8 AT is a feature-packed folding treadmill with an impressive 375-pound weight capacity, making it the perfect fit for heavier users who need a durable cardio machine that can support their fitness efforts. Although we’ve yet to get our hands (or feet) on the 7.8 AT, our team has tested the Horizon 7.4 AT—a similar silhouette with a slightly smaller screen and fewer smart buttons. The 7.4 scored a 4.5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics, with our tester noting, “The quick dial adjustments make customizing this thing a breeze.”
Dynamic Programming: 5/5
Durability: 4.5/5
Conveniences: 4.5/5
Why We Like the Horizon 7.8 AT
With an impressive weight capacity of 375 pounds, the 7.8 AT has a spacious 22-inch-by-60-inch deck that’s large enough for all activities. We also like that it easily syncs to training programs like Peloton, Nike Run Club, or Zwift thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, leading to a perfect tech capabilities score of 5 out of 5.
Most importantly, this heavy-duty treadmill is designed to minimize distractions and maximize performance. Just like the 7.4 AT, the 7.8 AT features Horizon’s highly-responsive QuickDial controls and one-touch interval keys that simplify speed and incline adjustments. “Custom interval keys are great for designing your own workouts,” says GGR expert product tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC.
Furthering that user-friendly concept, we gave the 7.8 AT a near-perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for conveniences. In addition to integrated Bluetooth speakers and media control center, you get a Bluetooth heart rate monitor, built-in media rack, and USB charging port for your phone or tablet.
The QuickDial adjustments are great for high-intensity interval training or for customizing the treadmill for different users.
GGR expert product tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC
Alternatives
The only notable callout about the Horizon 7.8 AT is its footprint. Considering it still scored a 3.5 out of 5 in this category, it’s not as though it’s the heaviest or least portable treadmill we’ve come across. However, at 330 pounds, it’s a hefty machine that measures 76 inches long, 37 inches wide, and 64 inches high. Plus, it comes with a premium price tag of $2,699 that lowers the value score slightly to 3.75 out of 5.
If the sticker price is too steep on the Horizon 7.8 AT, consider the more budget-friendly Sole F80. Although it’s a step down in conveniences and tech capabilities, it’s roughly $800 cheaper.
Testing Breakdown
Here’s how the Horizon 7.8 AT measured up against our fitness equipment testing methodology.
Vs. The Average
The Horizon 7.8 AT is nearly $1,000 more expensive than the average treadmill. However, you get a wider, longer running deck, higher weight capacity, and superior incline and speed capabilities.
| Horizon 7.8 AT | Average Treadmill | |
| Manufacturer price | $2,699 | $1,900 |
| User weight capacity | 375 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Top Incline | 15% | 12% |
| Top Speed | 12 MPH | 10 MPH |
| Running belt | 22” W x 60” L | 18” W x 55” L |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor warranty | 10 years |
Take a look at our complete Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill review for more details on this premium machine.
Best Treadmill for Heavy Walkers: Bowflex Treadmill 10
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is a solid investment for serious runners—especially tall users—who want a large deck, incline options, and interactive programming. Just be ready to pay more and deal with a heavier build.
At a Glance
- Roomy running surface for comfortable walking, jogging, or sprinting
- Incline and decline training capabilities
- Smart touchscreen for guided treadmill workouts
- Steel frame with SoftDrop folding system
With a 400-pound weight capacity and spacious, cushioned running deck, the Bowflex Treadmill 10 is comfortable for everything from heavy walking to running. Featuring a -5% to 15% incline and decline range, you can simulate hill training—a nice bonus for a home treadmill in this price range. We rate the value at 4 out of 5, especially since the Treadmill 10 comes with a two-month free trial for the JRNY platform.
Adjustability & Ergonomics: 4.5/5
Value: 4/5
Footprint & Portability: 2.5/5
Why We Like the Bowflex Treadmill 10
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 impressed us with its solid construction, spacious 22-inch-by-60-inch running surface, and versatile training features that make it a true workhorse for home gym owners. The treadmill’s deck is ideal for runners who want to stride freely without feeling confined, and it’s also well-cushioned for heavy walkers. The intuitive controls, including quick-access speed and incline buttons on the handlebars, make adjusting your workout effortless, resulting in an adjustability and ergonomics score of 4.5 out of 5.
“The belt has shock absorption, and the handles for the heart rate and side adjustment knobs for increasing speed and incline all feel extremely intuitive,” says GGR founder Coop Mitchell.
This model also stands out for its conveniences and tech capabilities. Though modest in size, the 10-inch HD touchscreen delivers a crisp display and integrates with Bowflex’s JRNY platform for adaptive programming and streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and more.
“Even though it’s on the smaller side, I enjoyed the touchscreen — it felt like the graphics came through really nice,” says GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT.
We also appreciate the large cup holders, media shelf, and extra tray space that make it easy to keep water, your phone, and accessories within arm’s reach during a session. We rate the conveniences at 4 out of 5, giving a slight bump for the tech capabilities (5 out of 5).
I really enjoyed the stability of the deck and the usability of the controls.
GGR founder Coop Mitchell
Alternatives
While the Bowflex Treadmill 10 performs well, it does come with a few notable downsides. At 323 pounds, it’s heavy and not easy to move—even with the included transport wheels—so it’s best suited for a permanent spot in your home gym. Assembly isn’t exactly easy, either, with tricky wiring and awkward parts that may require two people (or professional assembly) to put together. Although the treadmill does fold, it’s still bulky when stored (making it a poor fit for small spaces), which is why it earned a low footprint and portability rating of 2.5 out of 5.
If you need a more portable option, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 earned a 4-out-of-5 rating in this key category.
Testing Breakdown
Let’s look at how the Bowflex Treadmill 10 performed across our testing categories.
Vs. The Average
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is fairly priced, as it’s just $100 more expensive than the average treadmill. The most stark difference is the weight capacity, as the T10 accommodates users up to 400 pounds.
| Bowflex Treadmill 10 | Average Treadmill | |
| Manufacturer price | $1,999 | $1,900 |
| User weight capacity | 400 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Top Incline | 15% | 12% |
| Top Speed | 12 MPH | 10 MPH |
| Running belt | 22” W x 60” L | 18” W x 55” L |
| Warranty | 15-year frame, 5-year mechanical parts, 1-year electronics and touchscreen, 2-year labor | 10 years |
Check out our full Bowflex Treadmill 10 review for all the details on this machine.
Best Treadmill for Heavy People with Programming: Peloton Tread
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
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. 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.
What our tester says:
“I’ve had several other treadmills in the past and this one surpasses the others on every level. I purchased the Tread in December of 2018. It’s the best piece of exercise equipment I’ve ever owned.”
At a Glance
- Below-average weight capacity
- Carbon steel frame with shock-absorbing belt
- 23.8” touchscreen with front and rear-facing speakers
- Programming requires monthly subscription
If you’re looking for a treadmill that will help you avoid boredom while you’re working out, the Peloton Tread is a great option. While this treadmill won’t accommodate users over 300 pounds or those taller than 6 foot, 4 inches, it will provide you with plenty of entertainment when in use. Earning perfect scores in three categories, this premium-priced treadmill was classified as “the best piece of exercise equipment I’ve ever owned” by one of our product testers.
Dynamic Programming: 5/5
Durability: 4/5
Value: 4/5
Why We Like the Peloton Tread
The Peloton Tread is ideal for anyone who needs help with accountability and remaining committed to their training. With access to thousands of interactive programs and on-demand classes, you should have no trouble staying excited and engaged. This treadmill also has a 23.8-inch HD touchscreen display that will help you feel fully immersed in the variety of available classes. That’s why we rated the tech capabilities at 5 out of 5.
In terms of dynamic programming—another area where the Peloton Tread earned a 5-out-of-5 rating—the system will guide you through any selections you need to make, which makes the process easy. GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, says, “I’m pretty confident that my eight-year-old could figure it out.” Keep in mind, though, that you will have to pay $44 monthly for the Peloton subscription to utilize the programming.
I love how sturdy and durable the Peloton Tread is. I’ve had several other treadmills in the past and this one surpasses the others on every level.
Our expert product tester
Alternatives
The Peloton Tread earned high scores in all but one category: footprint and portability. Tipping the scales at nearly 300 pounds, this treadmill is not only heavy but also not built for compact spaces. Without a folding feature, you will need sufficient room to set it up and leave it there, even when it’s not in use. As a result, we rated the footprint and portability at 2 out of 5.
While we love the Peloton Tread’s dynamic programming, it doesn’t offer a substantially-high weight capacity. Heavier users who need more stability and support should consider the Bowflex Treadmill 10, which can support up to 400 pounds.
Testing Breakdown
The Peloton Tread earned perfect scores in three categories. In fact, it only scored below a 3 out of 5 in one area.
Vs. The Average
The Peloton Tread is roughly $1,000 more expensive than the average treadmill. While the running deck is above-standard, you get a lower weight capacity than most treadmills.
| Peloton Tread | Average Treadmill | |
| Manufacturer price | $2,995 | $1,900 |
| User weight capacity | 300 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Top Incline | 12.5% | 12% |
| Top Speed | 12.5 MPH | 10 MPH |
| Running belt | 20” W x 59” L | 18” W x 55” L |
| Warranty | 1 year | 10 years |
Check out our full Peloton Tread review for a deeper dive.
Best Durable Treadmill for Heavy People: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 treadmill has all the bells and whistles you might want and is easy to fold to save space when you are done using it.
What our tester says:
“I really enjoyed the cushioned deck of the 2450. For those who want to work out in comfort, this is a great choice.”
At a Glance
- High weight capacity of 400 pounds
- Extremely powerful motor
- Incline and decline capabilities
- SpaceSaver design with EasyLift assist
The 2025 version of the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill features a powerful 4.25 CHP motor that allows you to go up to 14 MPH. It also has a 24-inch pivoting touchscreen for off-equipment workouts, a well-cushioned running deck, incline and decline capabilities, and other conveniences like dual water bottle holders and a fan that changes intensity to match your workout. Although it’s the most expensive treadmill on this list, the Commercial 2450 earned a 5-out-of-5 durability rating, making it a wise long-term investment.
Dynamic Programming: 5/5
Adjustability & Ergonomics: 5/5
Footprint & Portability: 4/5
Why We Like the NordicTrack Commercial 2450
Although the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 has a listed price of roughly $3,300, you get what you pay for. With a 400-pound user weight capacity and 4.25 CHP motor, this machine is super stable for walking and running for many users and will provide a smooth in-use experience. Our tester was highly impressed by the durability and gave it a 5-out-of-5 rating, saying, “It feels super durable and like it will last a long time—there was little to no shifting on the treadmill.”
This NordicTrack treadmill is compatible with iFIT programming via Bluetooth connectivity, and you get a 30-day iFIT trial included with your purchase. As you can read about in our iFIT reviews, we think this is one of the best fitness programming options out there, so we give the NordicTrack 2450 a 5 out of 5 in the dynamic programming department.
A valuable feature on the NordicTrack 2450 is the ability to set the incline to 12% and decline to -3%, which is well above industry standard. Most treadmills don’t offer decline options at all.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1
Alternatives
It’s worth noting that this machine is not a walk in the park to assemble—we rated it a 2.5 out of 5 in this category. There are a lot of screws, bolts, and small parts to deal with. “Even if you’ve assembled equipment before, it’s difficult,” says our product tester.
If the iFIT programming doesn’t interest you and you’re willing to spend a little more, you may prefer the Peloton Tread.
Testing Breakdown
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 performed brilliantly across the board based on our fitness equipment testing methodology. Here’s a breakdown of how it rated in each category.
Vs. The Average
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is significantly more expensive than the average treadmill.
| NordicTrack Commercial 2450 | Average Treadmill | |
| Manufacturer price | $3,299 | $1,900 |
| User weight capacity | 400 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Top Incline | 12% | 12% |
| Top Speed | 14 MPH | 10 MPH |
| Running belt | 22” W x 60” L | 18” W x 55” L |
| Warranty | Lifetime motor | 10 years |
You can learn more details about this machine in our NordicTrack Commercial 2450 review.
Other Treadmills for Heavy People We Researched
We searched far and wide to find the best treadmill for heavy people. Here are a few intriguing options we considered while putting together our lineup:
- ProForm Carbon TLX: While you get good bang for your buck, the motor size (3.0 HP motor) and 300-lb weight limit make it a less attractive option than some of the models that made the cut.
- Sole F85: The specs are impressive, and we still think this is a good option for heavy users who want a reliable home treadmill. However, the F80 is a more budget-friendly option than the F85, which costs about $2,300.
- Sole TT8: Though it’s designed for heavier users (400-lb weight limit) and has a powerful 4.0 CHP motor, the TT8 costs almost $3,000 and lacks a folding mechanism. You can learn more about this commercial-grade treadmill in our full Sole TT8 review.
How We Picked and Tested The Best Treadmills for Heavy People
We asked ourselves these questions before adding any heavy-duty treadmills to our list:
- Weight capacity: What is the weight limit on this treadmill? We see most treadmills fall around the 300-pound range, so models that offer 350+ are better suited for heavier users.
- Motor horsepower: What is the motor horsepower of the treadmill? Is it higher or lower than a 3.0 HP motor? To get a 3 out of 5, a treadmill must have at least a 3.0 HP motor.
- Running deck size: What are the dimensions of the running belt? Would this treadmill work best for someone who is tall, short, or somewhere in between? Does it have a wide running surface for those who have a wider waist? To get a 3 out of 5, the deck must be at least 55 inches long and 18 inches wide.
- Belt: Is the tread belt well-cushioned? Is it a shock-absorbing deck?
- Price: Is this a budget treadmill? If not, is it mid-range or high-end?
- Footprint: What are the dimensions of the treadmill? Does it have a large or small footprint? Will it fit in a compact space or only in a dedicated home gym? To get at least a 3 out of 5, one or two people must be able to move the treadmill around easily.
- Technology: What technology features does the treadmill have? Does it have Bluetooth connectivity, screen mirroring, streaming, or other notable tech capabilities that add to the overall user experience? To get a 3 out of 5, the treadmill must have a console to show time, distance, and other metrics and heart rate or pulse monitoring through contact sensors.
- Display: What type of display does this machine have? Is it an HD touchscreen, backlit LED or LCD display?
- Top speed: What is the speed range for this treadmill? Is it at least 10 to 12 miles per hour? If so, it will earn at least a 3-out-of-5 rating for adjustability.
- Incline level: How high of an incline can you set on the treadmill? We like to see at least 12%, with some models going as high as 15%. Bonus points to treadmills that offer decline capabilities.
- Programming: Is any type of interactive programming or fitness app (like iFIT or JRNY) compatible with this treadmill? Can you view the programming on the display, or do you need to use your own device? Are there any preset workout programs on the machine?
- Extras: Does this machine have extras like a tablet holder, an accessories holder, or a bottle holder?
- Foldable: Is the treadmill foldable or is it non-folding? Folding models earn bonus points since this helps reduce the treadmill’s footprint.
- Machine weight: How heavy is the treadmill? Could one person move it by themselves or do you need another set of hands?
Benefits of Treadmills
Treadmills may get a bad rap as being boring, but there are plenty of advantages you can glean from using them. Let’s explore some of the ways users of all body types can benefit from utilizing the most popular cardio machine.
Can Help Support Your Weight-Loss Goals
It’s no secret that movement is one of the major keys to achieving your weight-loss goals. In fact, studies2 show that moderate-intensity exercise provided by treadmill walking can produce significant improvements in abdominal obesity and VO2max—a key indicator of aerobic fitness.
“Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy body fat percentage, if fat loss is your goal,” adds exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, PhD, RD. “It can help you burn more calories and stay in a calorie deficit when combined with a diet that includes adequate protein and other nutrient-dense foods.”
Certified personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly also thinks treadmills can be a great tool for overweight people.
“As a former heavy person, I can say that walking is one of the best ways to burn calories,” Anthony explained. “Think about it—it takes more gas to push a heavy car than a lighter one, so a heavy person burns more calories walking a mile on a treadmill than a lighter person. Treadmills can be an effective way to get that cardio workout in at any time, especially since walking can be lower-impact than running and doesn’t cause too much stress to people’s joints.”
Can Help You Achieve Your Daily Step Count
While you don’t necessarily need to to hit 10,000 steps a day, walking is often an overlooked and underappreciated form of exercise. Investing in a treadmill is one way to ensure you get those precious steps in on a daily basis.
“If you’re not physically active, start by doing 5 to 10 minutes of walking, and gradually build up,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. “With every step, walking offers benefits and is some of the best exercise for heart health.”
Supports Your Cardiovascular Health
Treadmill workouts are a fantastic way to build your cardiovascular fitness. While there’s nothing wrong with the steady-state approach, you may benefit from switching things up a bit.
“Add short, fast-paced intervals to your walk every few minutes to speed up your heart rate and burn more calories,” says Chris Mohr, PhD, RD.
This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Raj Dasgupta, who’s also a proponent of incorporating HIIT for its cardiovascular benefits.
“Short bursts pack a punch! Even quick periods of high activity get your heart rate up and can improve your fitness over time,” he says.
Buying Guide: What to Look For In Treadmills
Before shopping for a quality treadmill that can support your body type and fitness goals, here are key factors to consider:
High Weight Capacity
If you’re a heavier person, it is important to find a machine that will support your weight. Just for reference, the average user weight capacity for a treadmill is 300 pounds. However, there are plenty of machines that can support higher weights—you’ll just need to pay close attention to the specs.
Unfortunately, heavier people will need heavy-duty options, which frequently cost more. I recommend utilizing treadmill coupons or financing options in order to keep the cost down.
Powerful Motor
The more powerful your treadmill’s motor is, the more support you’ll have during your workout. Make sure your treadmill’s motor is at least 3.0 CHP or greater for the best experience possible. This way, your machine will be equipped to support sustained workouts of all types no matter what you’re doing.
Adequate Deck Space
If you’re a heavier person, chances are your dimensions are wider. If this is the case, you want to make sure your treadmill can support your body comfortably. You don’t need to be distracted by the handrails rubbing against your waist during your workout! Make sure the width of your treadmill deck corresponds to your size in order to have a better experience while walking or running.
Warranty
Make sure the treadmill has a good warranty that lasts for around five years, at minimum, for the frame and motor. These are the most important parts of the treadmills and the most expensive to fix, so it’s worthwhile to ensure you have good coverage.
Value
This should go without saying, but make sure the treadmill is within your price range and offers sufficient features and build quality for the price.
FAQs About the Best Treadmill for Heavy People
What is the weight limit for most treadmills?
Most treadmills support between 250 to 300 pounds, though heavy-duty models can handle at least 350 pounds or more.
Can overweight people use a treadmill?
Yes, overweight individuals can safely use a treadmill as long they stay within the treadmill’s weight limit. This is why we recommend heavy-duty models designed for supporting higher weight capacities.
What are the key features to look for in a treadmill for heavy individuals?
Look for a high weight capacity, powerful motor (at least 3.0 CHP), wide running deck with good cushioning, and durable frame. Other factors to consider include dynamic programming, intuitive controls, and the type of display.
References
- An, H. Y., Chen, W., Wang, C. W., Yang, H. F., Huang, W. T., & Fan, S. Y. (2020). The Relationships between Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction and Happiness among Young, Middle-Aged, and Older Adults. International journal of environmental research and public health, 17(13), 4817. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17134817
- Göçer, E., Ardıç, F., Akkaya, N., & Herek, D. (2017). Efficacy of moderate-intensity walking provided feedback by ECE PEDO on abdominal fat in overweight and obese women: A randomized, exercise study. Turkish journal of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 63(4), 340–347. https://doi.org/10.5606/tftrd.2017.1956
