Updated 09/03/2025
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 treadmill for home use, 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 cushioning 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. Models like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 and Commercial 2450 feature RUNFLEX™ cushioning that has a road-running feel that supports long-distance comfort while protecting your joints.
Explore the Commercial 1750 — cushioned, foldable, and road-running ready.
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.
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 offers incline/decline from -3% to 12% with AutoAdjust™ that syncs to iFIT workouts. For advanced cross-training, the X16 or X24 deliver -6% to 40% incline ranges.
CTA: Train smarter with iFIT incline workouts that automatically adjust your treadmill to real-world terrain.
Console Features
From LED displays to HD touchscreens, consoles make a big difference in your workout experience. Look for clarity, interactivity, and easy navigation.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1250 includes a 10” rotating touchscreen for treadmill workouts plus floor-based strength or yoga sessions with iFIT.
For a bigger upgrade, the X24 delivers a 24” HD screen, built-in entertainment apps, and premium design. Pair either model with an iFIT Pro membership to unlock global workouts, streaming services on your screen, and SmartAdjust™ training that keeps every session challenging and personalized.
See the Commercial 1250 — rotating screen + iFIT cross-training built in.
Foldability
If space is tight, foldability is key. A treadmill with a folding frame helps reclaim floor space when not in use.
The T Series 10 folds vertically for compact storage. The Commercial 1750 and 2450 also fold neatly, making them ideal for multipurpose rooms.
Shop the full NordicTrack treadmill lineup to compare folding and non-folding options.
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.
You may also want to explore whether your treadmill purchase qualifies as an FSA or HSA eligible expense. With the right medical documentation, some buyers are able to offset costs using pre-tax health funds.
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
Finding the best treadmill for your home gym comes down to space, budget, and goals. From compact folding designs to advanced incline trainers, NordicTrack has an option that fits.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable foldable treadmill or an advanced runner seeking road-realistic incline, the best treadmill is one that supports consistent training and keeps you motivated long term.
Start your journey with iFIT membership — structured training that makes your treadmill workouts more engaging and effective.
FAQs: Finding the Best Treadmill for Home Use
The NordicTrack T Series 10 and Commercial 1250 fold vertically, making them perfect for apartments or multipurpose rooms.
Yes, in some cases. With a medical provider’s documentation, a treadmill may qualify as a covered purchase. Learn more in our FSA and HSA Treadmill Guide.
Incline workouts burn more calories, engage your glutes and calves, and reduce joint strain. See why it works in our article on incline treadmill benefits.
Start by comparing models based on space, features, and training goals. Our 2025 Treadmill Buying Guide breaks down every key detail.
Yes. Every NordicTrack treadmill connects to iFIT, where personalized training programs adapt to your progress.
Japanese walking is a structured incline interval workout that’s efficient and low impact. Get the full breakdown in our Japanese Walking Guide.
Each machine offers unique benefits for calorie burn, joint impact, and training style. See side-by-side differences in our cardio machine comparison.
Absolutely. Interval training boosts calorie burn and cardiovascular fitness. Try these 3 quick HIIT workouts for beginners.
Treadmills are a safe, controlled place to build endurance. Check out our guide on how to start running.
Both are excellent for home gyms, but treadmills mimic real running while ellipticals offer low-impact cardio. Read our breakdown: Ellipticals vs. Treadmills.
