Best Compact Treadmills for Small Spaces
Have you have been fancying a morning walking or jogging routine, but the gym is five miles away? You don't have to worry anymore. It is time to get a treadmill, and one that will fit in your living space, of course!
Compact treadmills are affordable, light, and small enough to fit in tight living spaces. Some are even foldable and portable, which means you can put them anywhere in the house without compromising much of your living space.
Don't let the name fool you though. Compact treadmills might be smaller than those in your local gym, but they still provide you with an excellent opportunity to exercise in the comfort and privacy of your home.
When choosing the right one, there is a number of things you should consider. Most importantly, you should find one that is stable enough to support your weight and stay in place during your workout.
How to Choose the Right Compact Treadmill
Compact treadmills are almost similar to the full-size models, only that they are much smaller in comparison. Full-size models tend to extend up to 7 feet in length, but you might not have that amount of space in your house, which is why the compact treadmills were designed.
All treadmills on our list qualify as compact treadmills, owing to their small size and ability to fold up. They also highlight some of the most advanced features available in the market.
Dimensions
When folded and in-use, the treadmill measurements can help determine if it will fit conveniently in your space. Most people underestimate the sizes of these machines and end up purchasing treadmills that are too big.
You should avoid all large machines without folding capabilities. Chances are they might not fit into your space and might end up ruining the aesthetic appeal of your living space.
Quality of Build
While searching on the internet, you might be bombarded with a wide range of treadmills available in the market today. However, it would be best if you were careful while avoiding substandard products from unknown manufacturers. These consoles will vibrate, shake, and fall apart within weeks or months after purchase.Belt length
Another critical factor to consider is the belt length, and especially if you are tall, a longer belt will allow you to space out your strides while setting a comfortable pace. However, you should also ensure that you will have enough space to accommodate the extra running room.Features
A quality treadmill should include a variety of features to enhance your exercise sessions. Compact treadmills should offer a number of solid basic features, including straight forward controls, preloaded workout programs, vital exercise data, fans, and more.Running Surface
This is one of the most important factors to consider when picking out a compact treadmill. The length of the running surface will give a clear vision of how much space the treadmill will use up when fully unfolded.Top-of-the-line compact treadmills usually have a 20'' wide running surface by 60'' long, which works well even for tall people.
When picking out a treadmill, you should consider the height of the users. 55'' is recommended for running for most people. However, if you are taller than 6', you should opt for one that measures at least 60''.
How much room you ultimately need depends on your height and your leg length. As a general rule, a belt length of at least 55″ is recommended for running, but shorter folks may make due on even smaller belts.
Motor
Motor power is measured in horsepower (HP). This is the maximum power a treadmill can achieve, continuous horsepower (CHP): the power the treadmill can maintain. Most compact treadmills usually house motors ranging from 2.0 to 4.0 continuous horsepower.If you intend to do intensive training on your console, it is recommendable to get one with more 3.0 CHP. As a general rule, the bigger the motor, the more powerful it is. However, it is worth noting that the motor's size can significantly influence the price of the console.
Roller size
The rollers allow the belt to propel along the frame when powered by the motor. Larger rollers are recommended because they significantly reduce wear and tear on the motor and belt, making the treadmill more durable. Compact treadmills typically come with 2'' to 3'' rollers. However, some treadmills use different sized rollers in the front and back.Warranty
Most manufacturers break down their warranties to parts, motor, labor, and frame. High-end treadmills usually come with a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor (not always) and 2 to 5 years for the parts.Today, most treadmills come with a 1 to 2-year labor warranty, which is relatively standard for the industry.
Our List of the Top Small Treadmills
#1
Nordic Track T 6.5 S Treadmill
The Nordic Track T 6.5 is an entry-level treadmill that is both practical and affordable. It is foldable and light, which means you can quickly put it away after exercising to save space. It's built for light and moderate exercise sessions that involve walking and jogging.
A powerful 2.6 CHP motor powers the console. It is built with a 55'' track with an incline of up to 10%. The T 6.5 S is fitted with a 10'' touchscreen display compatible with iFit Coach for an ever-expanding database of workout videos by experienced trainers and a wide range of other benefits.
It also offers access to Google Maps training routes and automatic personal stats tracking. The T 6.5 S is preloaded with 20 exercise routines that help you burn calories efficiently and improve your endurance.
It employs SpaceSaver technology, which allows it to be folded and unfolded with ease with the help of hydraulics. The Runner's Flex cushion absorbs impact from your legs and helps protect your joints as you workout. It is designed with a 10% tilt to boost your heart rate training and provide enhanced muscle toning. The compact console can accommodate up to 300 pounds with ease.
All in all, the T 6.5 S is one of the best compact treadmills available in the market today. The powerful machine offers a wide range of functionalities you would need to get some exercise from the comfort of your home. The best thing about the T 6.5 S is that it is quite affordable and comes with long-lasting warranties, making it an excellent investment.
Pros
Cons
#2
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill
This is one of the most affordable treadmills on this list. The SF-T4400 has a beautiful design and a wide assortment of functionalities to aid your exercise session.
The treadmill draws its power from a 2.20 Horsepower motor that provides a top speed of 9 mph. The SF-T4400 is also equipped with three different options for adjusting the incline level, with a maximum of 4.37%. The console can accommodate up to 220 pounds and features a 49'' long by 15.5'' wide running surface, making it one of the most compact treadmills on this list.
Easy-folding technology allows easy hands-free folding and unfolding of your treadmill and keeping it latched when closed to avoid unnecessary accidents. Controls fitted on to the handrail allow convenient control of the speed, start and stop settings. The treadmill comes with nine preloaded workout programs and a large LCD screen to aid your exercise sessions.
Pros
Cons
#3
ProForm SMART Performance 800i
The ProForm SMART Performance 800i is built to be a high-quality compact treadmill that comes equipped with a wide range of features to enhance your jogging or running experience.
For the dimensions, the treadmill is 33.5'' wide, by 76.23'' long, and 57.64'' tall, which means it can comfortably fit even into very confined spaces. When folded, the 800i measures 33.5'' wide, by 43'' long and 76'' high.
The treadmill is designed for effortless tilting and rolling, making it quite portable. The machine is also equipped with the EasyLift Assist technology, allowing you to fold it easily. When you are ready for your next workout session, all you need to do is press your foot against the release bar, and the treadmill will automatically unlock and gently lower itself down to the ground.
The comes fitted with several high-end features, including a -2% decline to 10% incline for the tread, a crisp and clear 14'' touchscreen, 12 mph maximum speed, and an 18'' wide by 60'' long belt, to maximize your running surface. The 800i draws its power from a 2.75 horsepower motor, making it perfect for users who may want to do some long-distance running.
This ProForm model ccomes with the iFit Coach and a free one-year subscription, allowing access to over 16,000 training classes. Additionally, you will also get 50 built-in exercise programs designed by pros.
Pros
Cons
#4
NordicTrack 8.5 S Treadmill
The NordicTrack 8.5 S is one of the most advanced treadmills in the NordicTrack T-Series. This model has a cushioning in the deck for enhanced comfort, a massive 10'' touchscreen with access to iFit, and a number of other tech updates.
The 8.5 S is powered by a 3.5 horsepower motor, making it one of the most powerful treadmills in the compact class. The machine is fantastic for short jogging sessions, as well as marathon training. The design allows a 12% incline and 12 mph maximum speed for more intense workout sessions.
The treadmill provides a 20'' wide by 60'' long running deck and measures 78.5'' x 35.5'' wide x 59'' High when fully open, which is quite remarkable for a compact treadmill.
It also comes with a FlexSelect cushioning in the deck that can be easily turned on or off, depending on the training you need. The FlexSelect technology adds more flexibility under the deck, gently descending every time your foot strikes, allowing absorption of the impact shock.
The 8.5 S can comfortably accommodate up to 300 pounds, which is way more significant than what most of its competitors can support.
The console is also equipped with a 10'' touchscreen that allows you access to NordicTrack's database of training programs (you get a one-year free subscription). It also features more than 50 built-in programs that are accessible and free to use at all times.
Pros
Cons
#5
ProForm SMART Performance 400i Treadmill
This is another reasonably priced treadmill and also one of the smallest on this list. The model is slightly less powerful than most of its competitors; however, it makes a great walking treadmill.
It comes equipped with a 2.0 Horsepower motor and an 18'' wide by 50'' long deck, which is more than ample power and space for a power stroll. When open, the 400i measures 32.75'' wide, by 65.77'' long and 54.42'' tall.
The 400i also includes a 10% incline ability to allow uphill walking for an increased heart rate workout session. The console is fitted with a 7'' High-Definition touchscreen with a free one-year membership to the iFit database of classes and training sessions by world-class professionals.
The ProForm 400i also gets a ProShox cushioning in the deck, enhanced support on your joints. It is quite impressive for such a compact size that the 400i has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
Pros
Cons
#6
Nordic Track T 9.5 S
The T 9.5 Shouses a long list of excellent features, making up for the relatively high price tag. It measures 35.5'' wide x 78.9'' long and 59.4'' when fully open, making it both compact and practical.
The T 9.5 S is equipped with a 3.6 CHP DurX Commercial Plus, providing a speed range of 0.5 to 12 mph, enough power for intensive running.
It also offers an incline range of up to 12% to keep your body challenged and burn more calories at a much quicker rate. It's designed with a 60'' long by 20'' wide tread, optimum space for comfortable daily exercise. EasyLift Assist allows you to fold it after use for storage easily. When folded, the console measures 35.5'' wide, 39.6'' long, and 81.2'' long.
It comes with 50 preloaded workouts that can be accessed at all times on the 14'' HD touchscreen, without any subscription. You can use the iFit Coach, a database with thousands of exercise regimes to keep you fit and healthy for more classes.
Pros
Cons
#7
Horizon T202 Treadmill
Being one of the most reasonably priced consoles on this list, the Horizon T202 has quite an impressive array of features that earn it a position on this list. If you fancy an early morning run from the comfort of your home, the T202 is built for you. The machine is 34'' wide x 75'' long and 58'' tall.
It comes preloaded with a number of workout programs by pros to help you with burning calories, weight loss, and managing your heart rate. The LCD screen displays a range of vital information, including distance covered, speed, and inclination level.
The T202 has a 20'' wide x 60'' long belt, almost the same size you will find in most commercial treadmills. This machine can support up to 350 pounds, which is remarkable for a compact treadmill.
The machine only measures 34'' wide, 47'' long, and 65'' tall, which makes it to store away in a confined space when folded. It also features the Feather-light folding technology that eases folding and unfolding. It's powered by a potent 2.75 CHP motor, which is quite powerful, considering the price tag.
Pros
Cons
#8
NordicTrack T 6.5 Si Treadmill
The 6.5 Si is basically an upgraded NordicTrack 6.5 S and is one of the most affordable treadmills out in the market. It is 36'' wide x 67.5'' long and 73'' tall, making it small enough to fit into most apartments or small homes and it can accommodate more than 300 pounds.
It comes equipped with a responsive 10'' HD touchscreen that is both clear and user-friendly. The screen offers a range of features and controls, including belt speed, fan speed, audio volume, and incline settings. It also comes preinstalled with the iFit Coach and a one-year free subscription.
NordicTrack's T 6.5 Si also features 20 preloaded exercise routines you can use at all times to improve your fitness and health. When you purchase the console, you get a 10-year frame warranty and one-year parts and labor warranty that covers all required repairs for the first year
Pros
Cons
#9
LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i Touch Folding Treadmill
LifeSpan's TR3000i is a powerful compact treadmill that is both practical and highly customizable. It's a great option for people with a rather confined living space who enjoy running.
The console measures 71'' long x 33'' wide x 56'' high when open and only 42'' long x 33'' wide x 60'' high when folded. The TR3000i's belt measure 56'' long x 20'' wide, making it ideal for walking, jogging, or running.
It has a lightweight yet sturdy construction, making it durable and easy to move around. The console comes preloaded with 21 workout programs to help you keep fit and burn more calories.
It features a lifetime warranty for the frame and a 5-year warranty for the parts to offer you peace of mind. Drawing power from a continuous duty motor, the TR3000i is powerful enough for daily exercise sessions.
Pros
Cons
#10
Weeloloe 4-in-1 Mechanical Treadmill
The Weeloloe makes one of the most versatile treadmills on this list. The 4-in1 console uses zero electrical power making it the perfect machine for energy conservation enthusiasts.
It can be used as a panel for sit-ups, a draw rope tool, a massager, and a twisting machine. The best thing about the Weeloloe is that it can support 450 pounds, way above average for most compact-sized treadmills.
Pros
Cons
The whole experience of searching for a compact treadmill for your home might be overwhelming. This can be attributed to the wide selection of different brands available in the market. However, you should always insist on quality for what you pay for. This is why we have taken the time to compile a list of the most practical and reliable consoles available today.
These treadmills are not only reliable but also of the highest quality and will serve you for a couple of years before you require any servicing or repairs. The treadmills listed above are among some of the best available in the market today.
These consoles offer ample power for a good cardio workout and are compact enough to fit into confined spaces, unlike the full-size treadmills at your local gym. However, most home treadmills are well equipped with a wide assortment of features to assist with your workout sessions and help you get the best out of them.
Some of these machines also come with innovative nifty features, such as device holders, charging ports, and cup holders, to make your life easier.
All in all, the best treadmill will be determined by how much space is available in your house and how much you are willing to spend.