Equipment

How To Choose the Best Treadmill for Your Home Gym

Having a treadmill at home can help you stay healthy and feel good when you don’t have time to hit the gym. Overall, around 50 percent of U.S. consumers report wellness as a top priority in their day-to-day lives, according to research from consulting firm McKinsey & Company.

Treadmills are one of the most commonly used types of exercise equipment for home gyms, as it offers a convenient way to get a cardio workout anytime, regardless of the weather outside. But, with so many options on the market available, finding the best treadmill can be a daunting task. 

To help you find the best in-home treadmill for your particular needs, let’s examine some key factors to consider in your search.

Cushioning

The cushioning system of a treadmill is important for reducing impact. Research conducted in 2019 found treadmill running with cushion may be a useful method in the prevention of forefoot injuries.

Look for a treadmill with a cushioning system that provides good shock absorption and feels comfortable underfoot, like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill.

Alternately, some exercisers may prefer treadmills without cushioning, so they feel as if they are walking or running on pavement, mimicking real-world terrain.

Incline

An adjustable incline on treadmills can help vary your workouts and target different muscle groups. Incline settings also allow you to simulate real-world terrains.

For example, a high-incline treadmill mimics uphill walking or running.

The benefits of a treadmill incline may help you burn more calories, activate different muscles, minimize impact, and switch up your routine.

Look for a treadmill with a range of incline settings that meet your fitness goals. Many of the best treadmills for home, like the new NordicTrack Commercial 2450 treadmill, offer AutoAdjust™ technology that can automatically adjust incline and speed settings throughout guided iFIT workouts (sold separately).

Console Features

From LED displays to HD touchscreens, the console features of a treadmill can make a big difference in your workout experience. Look for a treadmill with a display or touchscreen that is easy to use and see. Treadmills, like the NordicTrack Commercial 1250 treadmill, also offer rotating touchscreens, allowing you to follow trainer-led iFIT workouts and cross-train off your treadmill.

Foldability

Especially if you have limited space in your home gym, you may want to consider a treadmill that can be folded up and stored away when not in use.

Look for a treadmill with a folding frame that is easy to use and doesn’t take up too much space when folded. Several NordicTrack treadmills offer SpaceSaver® Design with Easy Lift™ Assist.

Price

If you’re asking yourself, “how much is a treadmill,” you’re not alone. When shopping for the best in-home treadmill, many consider the price first. Treadmills can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on their quality and features. 

In other words, while buying a treadmill is exciting as an investment in yourself, perhaps not so much for your wallet.

If you have your eye on a new dream workout machine, but the price isn’t right, treadmill financing may be a solution. NordicTrack Financing offers special financing, exclusive benefits, and easy online management. 

Whichever way you slice it, several effective ways exist to help minimize cost getting in the way of your home fitness goals.

The Bottom Line

There you have it! With a bit of research and know-how, finding the best in-home treadmill is within reach. Be sure to take into account your available space, budget, and desired features, as well as the quality and durability of the treadmill. 

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, the best home treadmills, like the NordicTrack Commercial 2450, can be an excellent investment in your health and fitness. Plus, you can take your NordicTrack treadmill for a test run and “try before you buy” at Dunham’s Sports, and other fitness retailers. So happy shopping, and here’s to a great workout!

Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.