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Forbes
03-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
NordicTrack Rolls 50 Years Of Exercise Technology Into An Ultra-Luxury Fitness Product Line
Nordictrack Ultra 1 treadmill Courtesy of iFit NordicTrack is raising the bar in the home fitness equipment market. It is introducing the NordicTrack Ultra 1 treadmill, the first in a planned line of fitness gear that blends the performance expected from high-end exercise equipment with a design inspired by luxury furniture, making it fit for the most elegantly furnished home and office. It'll set you back $15,000, but then, it's the Ferrari or Lamborghini-class treadmill in an industry dominated by virtual $2,000 Chevy or Ford models everyone else is running on. After pioneering in the home fitness industry 50 years ago and outlasting every other brand in the business, NordicTrack continues its category-defining mission. The Ultra 1 is so revolutionary that it was launched at the Art Basel Miami Beach show in December, followed by its European introduction at the Paris Maison&Objet home decor and interiors fair. 'NordicTrack created Ultra 1 to celebrate its 50th anniversary and to fill a void in the high-end market. It's the perfect combination of form and function,' shared Kevin Duffy, CEO of iFIT, NordicTrack's parent company, along with the popularly priced Pro-Form product line and Freemotion serving the commercial market. Unlike other NordicTrack and other iFIT products that are widely distributed internationally and domestically through Dicks Sporting Goods, Best Buy, Amazon, Costco, Fitshop and others, the Ultra 1 will only be available directly from iFit. It is taking pre-orders now in advance of shipment starting in May. There is something to be said for a brand that has outlasted the competition in a home fitness market that has had its share of ups and downs over the years, most recently downs. In the early days of the home fitness industry, it was all about the hardware with NordicTrack's skier machine one of the first that was followed by treadmills and cross trainers. Then the industry was bolstered by the digital revolution combining the equipment hardware with digital content and virtual interactive training software. It came just in time for the pandemic lockdowns that kept people out of the gym. The Sports and Fitness Industry Association reports that in 2021 the home fitness industry posted a remarkable 16% growth rate that year as the rate of at-home workouts rose from 24% in 2019 to 36% in 2021. The trend has continued to increase as at-home convenience won out, and digital engagement substituted for personal training. However, after people equipped their home gyms, the industry quickly settled back to its more or less usual 4% growth rate, going from $11.2 billion in 2022 to $11.6 billion in 2023, while the players geared up for continued heady growth. BowFlex, formerly known as Nautilus and also owner of Schwinn, filed for bankruptcy in early 2024 and was acquired by Johnson Health Tech for $37.5 million in April last year. In 2020, Lululemon made a major $500 million investment in Mirror fitness device and digital app but couldn't make it work. Lululemon shut if down in 2023 and went with Peloton as its interactive fitness partner. And Peloton has had a rough ride too, dropping nearly 4% to $2.7 billion in revenues in 2024 and down 6% through the first six months of fiscal year 2025. While iFIT is private and doesn't reveal financial results, it is backed by L Catterton, which invested $355 million in 2022. At the time of the investment, managing partner Marc Magliacano said the company's brands and iFIT integrated content platform transcends 'venues, channels, product categories and geographies,' making it positioned 'to win on a global scale.' Magliacano is now a member of the iFIT board. Kevin Duffy joined iFIT shortly thereafter, taking over from long-time CEO Sam Waterson who remains on the board. Duffy previously was CEO of Sound United, a consumer technology company offering premium audio and home entertainment brands. His team includes chief operating officer Matt Bush, who previously was with the Samsung Harman brand, chief product officer Keith Hartsfield, formerly with iRobot, and chief subscription officer Jeremy McCarty tasked with growing the iFIT subscriber base. He honed his subscription bona fides in the wireless, telecom, and smart home industries. Besides having a content library of over 10k fitness and wellness courses, iFIT has also introduced an AI Coach to provide more personalized workouts suited to an individual's fitness level and goals. Plus the iFIT app supports users without the company's hardware. And through AI, it's translated its full content library into ten different languages. The new NordicTrack Ultra 1 fills a void in the home fitness market that iFIT aims to dominate. 'The fitness industry is filled with a lot of functional products,' Duffy explained. 'But there aren't any products that you want to take out out of the third bedroom or garage. That was the inspiration for the Ultra 1: to be both aesthetically beautiful and super functional.' It's crafted in wood and comes equipped with speakers and full body fans to keep users comfortable while navigating the virtual terrain during workouts. For example, you can virtually experience a Mt. Everest base camp run that automatically adjusts to the inclines and declines on the trail while enjoying the scenery. 'The controllers have been completely redesigned,' he continued. 'They look like the throttle on a F15 airplane.' And it comes with a commercial-quality gym deck that provides significantly less impact on the knees. It even invites you to workout with a sensor that slowly begins to glow as you approach the machine. I asked if an Ultra 1 customer could trade in their old equipment to knock a bit off the $15,000 price tag, but if it catches the right buyer's eye, they probably don't need it. However, they will get full white glove delivery service and their old treadmill can be taken away for recycling if desired. 'Our rebuying rate is relatively high,' Duffy explained, saying that about 15% of new purchases come from its existing client base, who want an upgrade to new equipment, 'much like when Apple comes out with a new iPhone.' Or the customer purchases a 'complimentary modality,' like the new Tour de France indoor bike, the first and only officially licensed stationery bike that allows users to virtually ride alongside some of the world's leading cyclists while enjoying the tour's French country landscapes. After NordicTrack's 50 years as an industry leader and with iFIT behind it, the company keeps earning kudos. It was just named as one of the most innovative fitness and wellness companies of 2025 by Athletech News. And it continues to innovate by crossing over into the gaming industry in partnership with Ergatta to make cardio workouts on rowers, treadmills and bikes 'feel more like playing than exercising.' Looking to the future, Duffy sees AI as being the ultimate game changer as people take control of their health and wellness journey. 'The connected fitness, health and wellness industry is probably the best market to be in over the next ten years. Just look at the Consumer Electronics Show where so many self-monitoring health devices were featured. That gives people the information needed to be proactive about health rather than reactive as in the past. 'And within the health and wellness ecosystem with a lot of verticals, such as nutrition and sleep, fitness is the most crucial. Being ahead in AI for fitness is one of our unique advantages,' he concluded. See Also:
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- Yahoo
Best Treadmills of 2025, as Tested by a Runner With Over 15 Years of Experience
As a runner and product tester, I know what it's like to look for a new treadmill. From comparing max speed to built-in workout programming, I tested many machines to find the best treadmills to reach your fitness goals. Treadmills come at a range of prices and can offer advanced technology, touchscreens, streaming platforms for your favorite shows, workout programs, unique hardware and more. I tested several popular treadmills by running, jogging and walking on them, evaluating key factors like who they're best suited for and what to consider before buying. Since treadmills are a significant investment, I carefully evaluated each one. These were my top picks during testing. Editor's note Jan. 7, 2025: We're currently testing more treadmills and will update this page later in the year. The best overall treadmill we tested was hands down the Nordictrack Commercial 2450. It's on the bigger side, but it's worth it if you want all the features that come with a high-tech treadmill. The 22-inch adjustable touchscreen on this treadmill makes it easy to view your workout and to tilt if you'd like to do a separate workout on the floor. It has decline and incline settings, ranging from zero to 15% incline and up to 3% decline, which is not easy to come by on a treadmill. Through Nordictrack's iFit program, you can personalize your own running trail using Google Maps to exercise anywhere in the world. The most elite feature has to be Nordictrack's auto-adjust technology. This allows an iFit virtual instructor to adjust your incline and speed during class, so it feels like you're actually on the terrain featured during your workout. Read more: How to Beat Boredom on the Treadmill The first thing I noticed about the NordicTrack Commercial 2450, NordicTrack's newest addition to its commercial treadmill series, is the touchscreen. It has a 22-inch HD touchscreen that resembles a desktop computer screen, so it's huge. It also tilts and pivots so you can adjust it for different uses, like if you want to take workout classes on the floor. The treadmill itself is also on the bigger side since it's a commercial treadmill, but it does fold up using its easylift assist feature, so if space is limited you can always prop up the belt. Assembling this treadmill can take about two and a half hours (as one of CNET's warehouse technicians estimated) and will require at least two people. NordicTrack does offer the option to include assembly in the delivery for an extra $299. This treadmill has both decline and incline options, ranging from zero to 15% incline and up to -3% decline. It's a rarity to find a treadmill that declines, so this is a unique feature. The speeds range from zero to 12 miles per hour and there are quick-touch control buttons on the console, which makes it easier to adjust your speed during interval training. To get the most out of the NordicTrack Commercial 2450, you will need an iFit membership that is included as part of a 30-day free trial upon purchase. Afterward, it will run you $39 a month. Besides treadmill workouts, iFit also offers other types of live and on-demand classes, so you can enjoy a variety of workouts on the floor. The treadmill uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth so you can connect headphones, a smartwatch or a heart rate monitor. I thought it was a missed opportunity that this treadmill doesn't give you the option to connect your music through Spotify or Apple Music. You'll also want to make sure that you have decent Wi-Fi because it can get spotty if the treadmill has a hard time reading it. During the testing process, I enjoyed the smooth, quiet tread belt of the NordicTrack. This would be an ideal treadmill for both short and tall people since the tread belt is long and wide, and it has a 300-pound max user capacity. Although this treadmill has a touchscreen, it also has buttons for users who like having that option. Right beneath the screen, there's a fan and a console that has buttons that control the incline, decline, start, stop and speed buttons. The cup holders on this treadmill are on each side of the treadmill and are disappointingly on the smaller side. The most they can hold is a bottle or towel and your phone. I'm guessing it was designed this way to keep you focused on your workout instead of fiddling with your phone. I like how you have the option to run or walk in manual mode without taking a class, but iFit itself has a diverse group of classes to pick from. One of the interesting features iFit has is that you can create your own trail using Google Maps to exercise anywhere in the world. For example, if you want to run in Central Park, you can select the location to create that immersive experience during your run. The stand-out feature I was most impressed by was NordicTrack's AutoAdjust technology, which allows an iFit virtual instructor to adjust your incline and speed during class. You could be running or walking in the jungle and you'll notice the treadmill adjust to replicate that terrain. This hands-free option lets you focus on the class without having to fuss with any buttons. It's also a good way for runners who need to train for a race to get the outdoor feel indoors. See at NordicTrack Transform your home and fitness routine with the TF50 treadmill. Its powerful incline and ultrasmooth Johnson Drive system make every workout seamless, whether you're walking, jogging or sprinting. The extra-long cushioned running surface keeps you comfortable and supported as you push toward your goals. Explore endless entertainment and live training options on its sleek console, turning every session into an exciting adventure. When you're done, the TF50's folding design lets you store it neatly, reclaiming your space without compromising on performance or quality. Fitness has never fit so perfectly into your life. See at Johnson Fitness If you're familiar with Peloton's exercise equipment, then you know it all shares the same black sleek exterior with touches of red. The Peloton Tread is no different, but its stand-out feature is the 23.8-inch HD touchscreen. This makes it the treadmill with the biggest screen on this list. The Peloton Tread requires plenty of room since it is large and doesn't fold up. It's 59 inches long so it can appropriately fit people of all heights, and you can tell by the width and length of the belt that it can comfortably fit someone over 6 feet tall. It has a 300-pound weight capacity. The Peloton Tread can go up to 12.5 miles per hour and has a maximum 12.5% incline, but no decline option. Its competitors NordicTrack and BowFlex can decline, so I was surprised that Peloton was lacking there. To control the speed, the Peloton Tread has a speed dial on the right and an incline knob on the left. This design is ideal if you're doing intervals, although I found the dial to lag when I tried to change the speed. Regardless, the Tread offers a smooth and mostly quiet ride. Another aspect I observed when testing is that the belt comes to an abrupt halt when you hit stop instead of slowly coming to a stop. This may be part of the safety features Peloton incorporated after the 2021 Peloton Tread recall. The Peloton also has a safety key and a tread lock, which is a four-digit safety pin that you're required to enter to access the treadmill. I found the tread lock to be particularly annoying because I had to enter it every time I walked away from the treadmill momentarily. I understand the need for it and think it's important, especially in a home with pets and children. Peloton doesn't have much to offer as far as a console goes; the plastic cup holder is just big enough to hold two water bottles. There is no fan. It looks a little more bare-bones than I expected considering this is the most expensive treadmill on the list. As with other Peloton exercise equipment, you need the $44-a-month All-Access membership to experience the classes. You also have the option to set it to just run or the scenic run mode so you don't have to actively participate in an instructor-led run class. You can make an account for everyone in your household. I can see Peloton members gravitating towards the Peloton Tread because they're familiar with the software and brand, but the average consumer may be deterred by the high price and prefer a less expensive option. My favorite part about using the Peloton Tread is how crisp and clear the classes are on the HD touchscreen. Even compared to the NordicTrack 2450 which has similar screen dimensions, the Peloton Tread has it beat. You can view the instructor clearly along with your stats at the bottom of the screen and the leaderboard on the right-hand side. See at Peloton The Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill looks like a commercial treadmill at the gym without the bells and whistles. It's also fairly priced and the only treadmill on this list under $1,000. This treadmill took our technician two hours to assemble, but you have the option of white glove delivery and assembly for an additional $349. You will need to make sure you measure out the space in your home since this treadmill is pretty big, measuring 76.5 inches long and 36 inches wide. It does fold up, but similar to some of the other treadmills on this list, you still need to make sure you have enough room to store it upright. One of the first things you'll notice about the Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill is that it doesn't have a touchscreen. Instead, the console has two display screens: a 7-inch LCD screen that shows your metrics during a workout, and right beneath it other smaller screens that display time, speed, distance, calories burned, incline, heart rate and pace. It doesn't have the most modern features and looks like it was designed in the '80s or '90s, but it's still functional. Despite lacking the smart capabilities of its competitors, it's a solid machine with a long belt measuring 60-by-20 inches, long enough for taller individuals to run on comfortably. It has a weight capacity of 325 pounds. The treadmill is on the quieter side, which is good if you're planning on cranking up the speed or doing intervals. Speaking of intervals, Horizon designed this treadmill to have quick-dial knobs on the shorter handles that stick out of the front of the console. The knobs are easy to turn forward to pick up the speed or incline or to turn back if you want to decrease them. The Peloton Tread has a similar feature on the side of its tread, but I found that Horizon's design makes more sense. The Horizon treadmill goes up to 12 miles per hour and can hit an incline of up to 15%. This treadmill doesn't decline. One of the things that sets this treadmill apart from a NordicTrack, BowFlex or even Peloton model is that you aren't required to buy any additional workout programs to use it. You can use it on its own or you can connect it to apps you already own, including iFit or Peloton, Zwift, Nike Run Club and Apple Fitness Plus. You can also connect to apps such as Netflix, Hulu or Spotify. Full transparency: I struggled to connect my phone to the treadmill, despite following the instructions verifying that my Bluetooth was on. Other reviewers have had better luck. CNET contributor Lindsay Boyer previously tested the Horizon T101 (another Horizon treadmill) and was able to successfully connect to the iFit app. Additional features on this treadmill include a fan, heart rate sensors and automatic and manual programs. It also has USB and headphone ports if you need to charge your phone or prefer to wear wired headphones. If you ask me, there's nothing wrong with a treadmill that sticks to the basics. See at Horizon Fitness The BowFlex Treadmill 10 is ideal for those looking for a heavy-duty treadmill. It has the highest weight capacity of all the treadmills on this list at 400 pounds -- most cap out at around 300 pounds. It's also the biggest one on the list, measuring 85 by 39.6 by 65.3 inches. According to our technician, assembly took about three and a half hours and can be tedious because of the different pieces you have to install. BowFlex does offer assembly for an additional $349. Upon looking at the BowFlex Treadmill 10, you can tell it's a solidly built machine due to the size of the tread and the wide design. I like how size-inclusive the design is: The space between the handles provides plenty of room to move your arms, and the tread belt is long enough if you have longer strides, so individuals over 6 feet tall will be able to run on it comfortably. The touchscreen on the BowFlex is only 10 inches, so it's smaller than I expected and seems out of place considering how big the body of the treadmill is. I also didn't love how some of the buttons that control the speed and incline are positioned further back on the sides of the treadmill and made of a plastic material. I'm short, so it didn't seem practical to me to reach behind me to change the speed or incline. I could see this being more comfortable for taller people. The upside is that there are handles in front of the console that also have buttons that control the speed and incline. The console is also wide enough to hold your phone or tablet and has one cup holder on each side. The BowFlex Treadmill 10 has incline and decline options and goes up to 12 miles per hour. When you're running, the belt feels smooth and is on the quiet side, despite the minimal whirring sound the motor makes. BowFlex also has a JRNY membership which you need to access the various exercise and treadmill classes. New members get to try JRNY for free the first year, but afterward, it's $20 a month, which is a fair price compared to other memberships. You can also easily sync up your treadmill with the JRNY app on iOS and Android. If you're not in the mood to take a class, you also have the option to use the treadmill in manual mode. You will need to make sure you have an internet router in or close to the room where your treadmill is set up. I didn't experience any issues with the connectivity, but some reviews point out that the classes glitch if the Wi-Fi isn't stable enough. You can also connect the treadmill to your Bluetooth-enabled smart devices and heart rate monitors. I tried connecting it to my Apple Watch but had no luck, which I can see being an issue if you're a runner who wants to track your data. This treadmill can't connect to music streaming services, but it can connect to streaming apps like Hulu or Netflix so you can watch your favorite shows while you work out. When you're done using the treadmill, you can fold it upright by pressing a lever on the lower right-hand side of the belt and lifting it up to close. Although it doesn't close all the way, it does prop up the belt which can help save you space. See at Bowflex Unlike the rest of the treadmills on this list, the Echelon Stride was made with limited space in mind, and its sleek all-black exterior will blend into any room. It only took our technician 15 minutes to set up. This treadmill is best for someone on the shorter side since the spacing between the arms and treadmill feels more narrow compared to the BowFlex and NordicTrack treadmills. The belt is also shorter, measuring only 55 inches long. It has a 300-pound weight capacity, which is impressive considering its size. It could pass for a walking treadmill because of how slim it is, but during testing, I was able to comfortably walk and run on it. The speed capabilities are in line with the bigger treadmills, the incline is not as high, and the Echelon Stride doesn't have a decline option. I'd recommend this treadmill if you're going to be using it for shorter runs, jogs and walks because even though it's sturdy and can handle high speed, I'm not certain it will handle intense mileage over time, especially if you're a long-distance runner. It also sometimes lags when you increase the speed. The foot rails are narrow, which makes sense since they fit the size of the treadmill, but I wouldn't be comfortable hopping on them if I suddenly needed to do so mid-workout. The Echelon Stride is more bare-bones than the other treadmills on this list because it doesn't have a touchscreen and is instead controlled by a few buttons beneath the LED console. If you want to access workout programs, you'll need an Echelon membership (up to $35 a month) and the Echelon app on your phone or tablet. If you don't like to rely on additional gadgets to view your workouts, this may not be the best option for you. I had to use my phone and the app worked perfectly fine for me, but truth be told, I would've preferred a built-in screen. The good news is you can connect your Spotify account and other third-party accounts like Strava, Apple Health and Fitbit. The buttons on the Echelon Stride are intuitive and may be preferable for those who don't want smart features. The LED console shows the speed, step count, time, distance, incline and quick speed. This treadmill only has a mesh cup holder to hold a water bottle, which fits its small frame but doesn't hold much else. A big advantage this treadmill has over the rest on this list is that it folds flat so you can store it under your bed or lean it against your wall. It's truly a space saver, unlike other treadmills which just fold upright and still require some space. See at Echelon When we test treadmills, we usually test in our Louisville-based CNET warehouse due to its ample space. On occasion, we will test from home or try a demo at a showroom. Since we are a small team, it can take months of arranging and testing to bring you the most vital information you'll need to know before making your purchase. Over our years of testing, we've established a methodology that helps us evaluate and score each piece of fitness equipment we test. We judge fitness equipment based on the following. Features: We look at the types of features offered by these pieces of equipment, how advanced or simple these features are, and whether the machine can connect to built-in or third-party apps or wearables. No matter how advanced it is, it should be intuitive for most people to use. Software: Many of these machines have programs built in, so we look to see how easy they are to use and any challenges we experience when using them. Functionality: When testing, we determine if the machine works as promised. Additionally, we observe how intuitive it is to use, whether it has all the bells and whistles or not. Even if the machine is as simple as it comes, the device should still function as promised. If the machine is more modern, it should still be easy to use by anyone. Assembly: We make note of how long it takes to assemble fitness equipment and if you need an extra set of hands to help. Fitness equipment tends to be heavy so it usually is a two-person job. We also make sure that there's a white glove delivery option if you prefer and make note of the price. Warranty: It's important to know the warranty information for your equipment in case you need a replacement. Since fitness equipment is an investment you should feel comfortable knowing that you're getting a top-quality product. If a piece needs replacing, the window for replacement or refund should be clear. Read more on how we test fitness equipment. ProForm Pro 2000: Although ProForm and NordicTrack are manufactured by the same company, I found that the quality of the ProForm did not compare. During testing I was unable to connect my iFit account and the belt did not feel smooth when in use and kept making squeaking sounds. even after our technician adjusted it multiple times. Mobvoi Home Treadmill: Putting together this compact treadmill at home wasn't too complicated, but I noticed some manufacturer defects in the alignment of the handles. Although this didn't affect the ability to use the treadmill, I found this one was better off used for walking instead of higher-impact activities like running or jogging. While jogging on the treadmill I noticed it made loud thumping noises that can be a nuisance if you live in an apartment. The belt is also narrow, therefore I don't think it would be an appropriate pick for taller or larger people. Treadmills can be a significant investment, so before buying, you'll want to take several factors into account. Budget: set yourself a budget and figure out how much you're willing to spend -- you can get a quality treadmill on a budget, or splurge for extra features. Similarly, determine whether you want a smart treadmill with a touchscreen and virtual classes, or if you prefer a simpler model without a touchscreen that provides basic metrics. Size: Consider the size of the treadmill and how much space you have in your home to fit one. Decide if you want the treadmill to be foldable for saving space and easy storage. Workouts: Take your workout plans into account; do you plan on using it more for running or walking? Consider if multiple people in your household will be using the treadmill and if you need one that can handle various heights and weights. Also, consider whether you're OK with a treadmill that makes some noise or if you prefer it to be silent. There are various ways to use a treadmill that range from walking to running. Below are other workouts you can try out as per our experts' recommendations. Indoor vs. outdoor running: One thing to keep in mind is that the way you run outdoors is going to translate differently indoors. This is why sometimes you'll notice your smartwatch is inconsistent with the pace readings it gives you when you run on a treadmill versus outdoors. Even running indoors can cause your stride to change compared to when you run outside. "The most transferable metric to outdoor running is pace and incline," said Matt Wilpers, a Peloton instructor. Therefore if you are training for a race and plan on mixing it up between outdoor and treadmill runs, these are the key metrics to focus on. Additionally, you have more control over a treadmill workout because you can focus on dialing in your mechanics, breathing and mental focus instead of fixating on your smartwatch for data. Interval training: You can practice interval training on the treadmill by mixing up your easy walk or jogging pace with a fast running or jogging pace. This will vary from person to person, so it's helpful to use your perceived rate of exertion to determine what these speeds are for you. An interval workout can look like running at a fast pace for a minute, followed by a walk or jog for two minutes and alternating between that sequence for 20 minutes and adding in a cooldown. Hill and flats: If you find walking on a treadmill to be monotone, then you can always play around with the incline. Peloton instructor, Rebecca Kennedy said, "Walking is gentle on the joints while offering an incredible cardio output so you're still able to get conditioned without the impact of running." For example, during Peloton hikes (one of the classes she teaches) you have walks that vary from a 4 to 15% incline." Take turns with flat and incline intervals. If you are familiar with running on hills, aim to crank up the speed when you're doing a flat interval. Not only will you challenge yourself doing these types of workouts, but you'll target muscles like your glutes, quads and hamstrings. Sprint intervals: If you're trying to improve your speed, sprinting is a good way to achieve this goal. You could play around with the timing and start off with 30 seconds of running at the highest speed you can tolerate and alternate with 30 seconds of walking. As you get more comfortable with sprints, you can add on more time for the sprint. If you're new to the treadmill and are looking for guidance on the proper way to use one, our experts shared the best practices you should be following. Warm-up: As with any workout, you shouldn't neglect the warm-up. At an easy walking pace warm up for five to 10 minutes. Don't hold onto the handrails: If you're running on a treadmill at a pace that's slightly too fast for you, it's tempting to hold onto the console or the handrails. "This risks injury and it isn't proper treadmill form," warns Wilpers. If you find the speed too fast, reduce it until it feels comfortable enough to keep your elbows by your sides. Don't go out too fast: One common mistake some people make is cranking up the speed too soon. Wilpers says, "Make sure you do an easy warm-up or jog before transitioning into an actual run." Use your arms: It's easy to forget about your arms if you're jogging or running on a treadmill, but using your arms by swinging them as you run makes you a more efficient runner. "Make sure to keep them bent at around 90 degrees and by your sides and not swinging across the body because that is a sign that your torso is rotating too much," advises Wilpers. Run tall, run light, run relaxed: If you're running on the treadmill, you want the movement to feel as natural as possible. Wilpers says, "Throughout runs, perform mental body scans to assess how you are doing from head to toe, including breathing." When thinking about your form, running tall means you are maintaining an upright posture with a forward lean from the ankles, whereas running light refers to light quick feet, and running relaxed is relaxing everything else that isn't driving the movement. Who should avoid treadmills: It's important to avoid hopping on a treadmill if you are currently injured, have an illness, recently had surgery or are recently postpartum. "I would not recommend a tread workout at the moment, but once given clearance by your doctor the tread can likely be a good training tool to get you back in good condition," says Kennedy. If you have heart conditions, vertigo, arthritis or disc issues, it's best to consult with your doctor first. If you want your treadmill to last a long time, you'll need to do some maintenance to keep it in good condition. You will need to clean your treadmill to keep it debris-free with a cleanser that's appropriate for gym equipment. Sometimes the treadmill manufacturer will sell the best cleanser for their product on their website. Making sure the safety key (usually found on all treadmills) is fully functioning is also important to make sure your treadmill is still safe to use. According to ProForm, you should check monthly to verify the treadmill belt still has tension and is properly aligned. Usually, the instructional manual will include information on how to adjust your treadmill belt. Additionally, inspect the power cord for any potential damage and check that the bolts and screws on your treadmill are still screwed in tight. Over time and use, some of these pieces can come loose so they may need to be tightened up occasionally. Another aspect to look at is if the treadmill needs lubrication. When you purchase your treadmill, you'll notice that your package probably came with a small tube of lubrication. This is to keep the treadmill belt in good condition since the lubrication can dry up over time. According to NordicTrack, if the treadmill isn't properly lubricated it can affect the way it works by making the belt stick and can even cause it to overheat. For proper instructions on how to lubricate your treadmill, adhere to the instruction manual or call the manufacturer's customer service number for assistance. Finally, if you've done all the inspections required and notice that your treadmill belt is worse for wear, it may be time to replace it. Make sure you have the model number of your treadmill on hand before reordering a replacement belt. Follow the instructions on the manufacturer's website or owner manual to make sure that you're installing it correctly. This depends on your personal needs and goals. If you're prone to injuries and need a low-impact option for cardio, the elliptical is a better option. If you're training for a race or not prone to injuries, a treadmill is a good choice. According to NordicTrack, you'll need to buy a nonsilicone-based treadmill lubricant from the treadmill supplier. Follow its recommended steps to properly lubricate your treadmill. The cost of a treadmill will depend on the type and quality of the treadmill you're looking for. You can find treadmills under $1,000, but they may lack the sturdiness and capacity that a more expensive option provides. If you want a treadmill with special features you can expect to spend upwards of $1,000, with more expensive models ranging anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000. Treadmills can last about 10 years or longer if they're well-maintained and cared for. Running on a 0% incline or high incline can increase your chances of injuring your knee and shin splints or other issues. According to orthopedic surgeon Kevin D. Plancher, running at lower inclines is safer for the knees. He suggests running at a 1 to 3% incline to prevent unnatural movement patterns that normally occur at a 0% incline setting. This helps relieve pressure from the knees and instead ends up working more of your glutes and hamstrings.
Telegraph
29-01-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
The best treadmills for walking, running and cardio workouts in 2025, recommended by experts
The home fitness industry was on the cusp of a breakthrough even before the pandemic, thanks to advances in technology and a desire for exercise to fit into our lifestyles, rather than the other way round. Lockdown put rocket-boosters under that. Before you knew it everyone was following Joe Wicks workouts, yoga-ing with Yoga with Adriene or investing in a We asked experts from the world of sport and physiotherapy to recommend the best treadmills currently available. Their full reviews are further down this article, followed by some advice on how to lose weight on a treadmill. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at our top five: Which are the best treadmills in 2025? At a glance Best overall treadmill - Best budget treadmill - Best Peloton treadmill - Best mid-range treadmill - Best joint-friendly treadmill - How much should I spend on a treadmill? Treadmills can cost between £600 and £3,500. How much you spend should depend on how regularly you'll use it and whether you want live classes, like with Peloton or NordicTrack. Look for one which monitors your time, pace and incline. It will need to be wide and long enough and have a motor powerful enough to maintain a consistent speed for someone of your weight, size and power output, says Matt Roberts, celebrity personal trainer to Adele and David Cameron. 'In the most basic terms,' Matt says, 'a treadmill should not leave you feeling that your foot is close to the end if you have a long stride length. The motor needs to be a minimum of around 2.5 horsepower if you intend to run at all and should be that same level for walkers in order to retain a consistent speed. Lesser motors will alter their output as the foot strikes.' Ready to be put through your paces? Whether you're looking for the crème de la crème of studio-standard treadmills or a budget model to get you started, these are the best treadmills available for your home gym. Best treadmills 1. NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Best treadmill overall, 10/10 We like: ease of the programmes built in We don't like: the price Max speed 19km/h Incline between -3 and +15 14' Pivot HD touchscreen Foldable Real time classes with iFit (30 days free, then £11 per month) For the best all-round training experience – with a price to match – look to NordicTrack. Its Commercial 1750 model has 'Runner's Flex' cushioning on the deck that can be adjusted to offer extra impact support or to simulate a real road-running experience. It has an impressive incline range of -3 to +15 per cent and a max speed of 19km/h (roughly 12mph – plenty fast enough, unless you're Mo Farah). NHS and Aston Villa FC physiotherapist Alex Boardman recommends the NordicTrack due to the ease of the programmes being built in. 'Treadmills that provide interval training sessions can be really beneficial for providing structure to workouts. They allow you to progress mobility and fitness in a controlled environment.' With this treadmill you also get a month's subscription to iFit, which offers immersive on-demand and live training classes (delivered via a 14' HD touchscreen) that automatically adjust your speed and incline as you go – there's no space to slack. It has other fun features, like Google Maps integration which means you can mimic outdoor running anywhere in the world. 2. JTX Sprint-3 Electric Best value treadmill, 8/10 We like: compact treadmill for a reasonable price We don't like: phone/tablet holder doesn't have Bluetooth connectivity Max speed 16km/h Incline between 0 and 12 5' LED screen Foldable 40 programmes This is a good quality, compact treadmill for a reasonable price. It comes with 40 pre-programmed workouts and has a max speed of 16km/h and an adjustable incline up to 12 per cent. The belt folds up for easy storage but thanks to the robust steel frame, it feels sturdy to run on. The 5' backlit display is intuitive and easy to use and links to a reasonably good heart rate monitor. It does almost everything the more expensive machines do, except live and on-demand workouts. As celebrity personal trainer Matt Roberts says, 'Screens aren't a necessity: most smartphones will give you more and are more accurate with data.' 'A good treadmill can be used for a variety of different exercise programmes,' adds Alex Boardman, stating that as a priority over high technology screens. The downsides are that, while it has a phone/tablet holder, it doesn't have any Bluetooth connectivity to link it up to smartphone apps like Strava. It's also slightly awkward to lubricate. However, it's a great value option for everyday use at a reasonable price. 3. Peloton Tread Best Peloton treadmill, 9/10 We like: classes can help users stay on course with their fitness We don't like: the price Max speed 20km/h Incline between 0 and 12.5 24' HD screen Not foldable Real-time classes with Peloton (from £39 per month) For a premium, studio-style treadmill experience, the Peloton Tread is hard to beat. It's exceptionally well-built. Speed and incline controls are on handy adjustable panels by your side. It has a wide speed and incline range of 0-20km/h and 0 to 12.5 per cent respectively and feels sturdy yet smooth to run on, with ample cushioning on the deck. Peloton's key strength is its incredible array of classes, so the treadmill comes with a 23.8' touchscreen and front-facing speakers so you can join in in HD. According to Alex Boardman, these live and on-demand classes can help users stay on course with their fitness. Peloton instructor Hannah Frankson explains: 'There are classes of different lengths and workout types, whether you want to enjoy a fun music run or go for long intervals. The smooth treadmill belt is easier than running on the road or tarmac, reducing impact on your joints.' The motivation of a class atmosphere, a leaderboard and a great playlist is certainly Peloton's biggest selling point. Remember you will have to pay monthly for a class subscription, on top of the one-off cost of the treadmill – which is already very expensive at £3,045 (or £278.85 per month for 12 months with Peloton's 0 per cent finance deal). But if you like boot camp-style HIIT classes and are happy to splash out, you'll be be getting a very good running machine. 4. Reebok FR20Z Floatride Best joint-friendly treadmill, 8/10 We like: The cushioning We don't like: Lack of foldability Max speed: 18 km/h Incline 15 levels Not foldable LED console 24 preset programs + three user-defined programmes A sturdy home treadmill with a refreshing pop of colour and Floatride+ cushioning technology. 'The Floatride+ cushioning provides excellent shock absorption, ideal for those prioritising low-impact workouts,' says Alan Morton, specialist run coach and lead tutor at 'The running deck is a good size for taller runners at 140cm long and 46cm wide and it has a high maximum speed of 18 km/h for high-intensity interval training. It has a quiet 2.25 HP motor and a comprehensive selection of preset fitness programmes plus the user-defined personal programmes.' It's also compatible with apps such as Zwift and Kinomap. The bright console display gives you speed, time, distance, calories, pulse, heart rate and body fat and the machine has integrated Bluetooth surround sound speakers. There are short grab rails for safety and a dock for your devices. 'It's not foldable because it has a fixed running deck,' says Alan. 'This makes it less easy to store away but more stable for running on.' It does have transport wheels for moving out of the way when not in use. 5. Matrix Fitness TF30 Folding Treadmill Best treadmill used in gyms, 8/10 We like: blurs the boundaries between home and commercial treadmills We don't like: its quite pricey Max speed 20km/h Incline between 0 and 15 8.5' LCD screen Foldable View fit connectivity to connect with apps Back to the luxury end, the Matrix treadmill blurs the boundaries between home and commercial treadmills. Matt Roberts favours an expensive commercial machine over the smaller at home treadmills and this is the perfect compromise. 'To be honest, it's hard to find a home treadmill that is going to be good enough to justify buying,' he says. His biggest concern is that motors on at home treadmills are generally low, citing 2.5 horsepower as the lowest acceptable level. This Matrix level far outdoes that, with a 3.25 motor. Matrix is also the brand used in PureGyms. 'We use treadmills from Matrix which provide all our cardio machines. This is a robust treadmill with an efficient and user-friendly LED display. It provides all you would expect from a commercial treadmill, such as heart rate sensor, pre-set workouts, a good incline percentage and a broad range of speed options,' says Dan Blackhall, manager at PureGym. Amazingly, this Matrix treadmills even folds up, so it can be stored vertically when not in use. It's perfect for someone looking for an in between of home and commercial treadmills. 6. Domyos High-Performance Connected Treadmill T900D Best mid-range treadmill, 8/10 We like: Spacious running deck We don't like: Less incline than higher-end models Max speed 18 km/h Incline: 0 to 10 Foldable LED console 32 preset programmes, Bluetooth compatibility with Domyos Econnected and other fitness apps A mid-range treadmill from Decathlon that's designed for people who run regularly. 'With a generous running surface of 50cm x 143cm, solid motor power and app compatibility, it's perfect for those seeking a reliable, connected treadmill at a mid-range price point,' says run coach Alan. It has grab rails for safety and the console shows you time, distance, speed, average speed, calories burned and heart rate (measured with a heart rate monitor belt or manual sensors). Nice touches include side speakers so you can ditch the headphones, a fan, cable jack for your device, USB port and a tablet holder. It folds and has wheels so you can store it away when not in use. 'It offers excellent value for money, with a high maximum speed and app integration for tracking workouts,' says Alan. 'The spacious deck is ideal for running, jogging or walking for those with a long stride. However, there is a more limited incline range compared to higher-end models.' 7. Decorcn Folding Treadmill Best budget treadmill, 7/10 We like: The value for money We don't like: Short running deck Max speed 16 km/h Incline 20 levels (2.2° to 5.4°) Hydraulic folding system LED display, 12 preset programmes 'This is a versatile treadmill for walking, jogging or intense running with a good selection of incline levels and the upright grab rails are useful if you want to walk on a steeper incline,' says Alan. 'The 4.5 HP motor provides impressive durability and power, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride even during high-intensity running sessions or when used by heavier users.' The running belt is wide at 45cm, but on the shorter side in length at 120cm. 'This may not suit very tall runners,' says Alan. 'There's only 12 preset workout programmes, which is lower than some treadmills, but enough to add variety to your treadmill workouts. There's no Bluetooth connectivity but at this price point, the treadmill is good value for money. It has a six-layer elastic running belt, which will provide reasonable shock absorption.' It has Bluetooth speakers for your motivational tunes and the hydraulic folding system makes it easy to fold away along with transport wheels, so it doesn't need to be out all the time. It has five-year parts and motor cover, which is a bonus as treadmills can be expensive to maintain, especially if you use them frequently. 8. Horizon 7.0AT Treadmill Best treadmill for taller, heavier runners, 8/10 We like: High speed and incline settings We don't like: Low number of preset programmes Max speed 19 km/h Incline 0 - 15 Foldable Bluetooth connectivity and app integration for real-time classes. 'The Horizon 7.0AT Treadmill is built for tough home workouts with app integration,' says Alan. 'It has a powerful motor at 3.0 HP for intense runs and Bluetooth compatibility, making it perfect for fitness apps like Zwift and Peloton, syncing seamlessly with training plans and wearable devices, such as heart rate monitors. It only has seven preset programmes but you won't necessarily need them as you can use apps.' It has a high maximum user weight at 147kg and the running deck is very long at 152cm. 'This makes it a good buy for tall runners who sometimes feel like they can't stride out on treadmills,' says Alan. 'The incline goes up to an impressive 15 per cent. Add to that a high max speed of 19 km\h with responsive, quick-adjust handles for changing them and you have a versatile treadmill for advanced runners.' It has short grab rails for safety, built-in speakers, pulse monitor, a hydraulic folding system for easy storage and a two-year parts and labour warranty. FAQs How to lose weight on a treadmill 'Alternate between walking, running and sprinting on a variety of inclines,' advises celebrity trainer Matt Roberts. 'This will provide a good variety of cardio challenges. Anything you do will burn calories, which all goes towards weight loss.' Roberts explains he prefers HIIT sessions for his own clients. He says, 'Generally, I don't ask people to do long durations on treadmills. They are used instead for shorter more intensive periods within training sessions. This is not to discount long duration treadmill runs, but they don't form part of training sessions in general.' Which treadmill is best for home use? The Nordictrack Commercial 1750 tops our list as the best home treadmill, as recommended by our experts. Not only does it have a high-powered motor, highly variable speed and incline and excellent cushioning, it also has a 14' screen from which you can run live and on demand classes via iFit. For more ways to improve your health, read our guide to the Are folding treadmills good for serious workouts? Yes, provided you have a good model, folding treadmills can provide a great workout.
