The 7 Best Commercial Treadmills of 2023

The best commercial treadmills are designed to withstand constant use, whether it’s by the members of a commercial gym, the residents of an apartment complex, or a single household brimming with marathon runners. As such, they’re made from tougher stuff than run-of-the-mill models, with durable frames and brawny treads that can withstand the workout programs of a diverse range of athletes, from walkers and light joggers to long-distance runners and sprinters. 

If you’re in the market for a commercial treadmill, you’ll want to consider the space you plan on placing it in and the fitness needs of those who will be using it. Is it a commercial gym? A communal fitness area in a senior living facility? Or maybe you’d just like to outfit your home gym with a machine that’s built to last. In our hunt for the best commercial treadmills, we turned to some of the most reliable brands to find the best commercial treadmills on the market.

Best Commercial Treadmills of 2023

• Best Commercial Treadmill Overall: Sole F63
• Best Commercial Treadmill for Streaming: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
• Best Budget Commercial Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT
• Best Folding Commercial Treadmill: ProForm Pro 9000
• Best Incline Commercial Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial X32i
• Best Manual Commercial Treadmill: Assault AirRunner Pro
• Most Durable Commercial Treadmill: Sole TT8

How We Tested the Best Commercial Treadmills

BarBend’s expert team is made up of certified personal trainers, competitive athletes, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. Over the years, we’ve broken a sweat on more than 100 different cardio machines — treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, you name it — and gained a deep understanding of which features matter, which ones don’t, and which ones are best suited for personal and commercial use. 

Since we were picking commercial treadmills, we considered practical factors like size, weight, price, and warranty alongside craftsmanship concerns and the variety of their features. Can the machines accommodate multiple users on a daily basis? How much weight can they support? Is there a variety to the kinds of workouts they provide? We also considered each model’s tech capabilities, app integration, and basic conveniences to provide the kind of overview that should help you determine which of these treadmills can withstand the demands of your space. 

Best Commercial Treadmill Overall: Sole F63

Specs

• Price: $1,199.99
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline: 15%
• Weight Capacity: 325lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 67’’ H x 77’’ L x 35’’ W 

Pros

• Since treadmills with similar features typically run around $2,000, the F63 offers a great deal at $1,199.99.
• Its 3.0 HP motor supports up to 325 pounds and reaches speeds of 12 miles per hour. 
• It provides a 15 percent incline for an added challenge. 
• You get a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. 

Cons

• Its undersized 1.8-inch rollers can wear on the belt over time. 
• We felt a light shake during sprints.
• The built-in fan lacks power.

The Sole F63 is equipped with so many impressive features, you might spit-take after seeing its price. To start, it hums with a 3.0 HP motor, has a top speed of 12 miles per hour, and offers a 15 percent incline — all for $1,199, a modest price for a treadmill. And that’s to say nothing of its lifetime frame and motor warranties. 

Forged from durable steel, the F63 can support up to 325 pounds. Our testers pointed out its functional design, which includes plenty of storage options, two cup holders, and buttons on the handlebars that let you adjust both speed and incline. It’s also foldable so you can make space for strength gear when it’s not in use. 

The display isn’t anything special, but it tracks calories, pace, and incline, as well as your heart rate thanks to a pair of built-in pulse sensors. It’s also compatible with Bluetooth so you can also link up the treadmill with fitness trackers and smartwatches to keep a better eye on your stats. 

Since Sole doesn’t have its own interactive app like other commercial treadmill brands, we like that it has an integrated tablet holder so you can easily follow workouts from the fitness app of your choice (or enjoy streaming content). To get started, though, you can access one of its 10 built-in programs, which run the gamut from HIIT and fat burn workouts to a pair of workouts designed to spike your heart rate. If you like to run to music, the F63 has a pair of Bluetooth-friendly speakers and a USB charging port. 

Our tester had a few concerns. We sensed a light shake in the frame during runs and wished for a touch more smoothness. Also, its 1.8-inch rollers aren’t as big as we’d like. Over time, rollers under 2.5 inches can wear down the belt, meaning this isn’t the best treadmill for long-distance running or high-volume use in a commercial space. Still, when you factor in the F63’s price, comfort, and functionality, these issues become pretty easy to overlook. 

Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review. 

Best Commercial Treadmill for Streaming: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

Specs

• Price: $2,999
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 12 percent and -3 percent
• Weight Capacity: 325lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 65” H x 78.5” L x 35.6” W 

Pros

• Enjoy HD streaming with a 22-inch touchscreen display with 360-degree rotation.
• It has a 3.6 CHP motor supports up to 300 pounds and reaches speeds of 12 miles per hour.
• It’s forged from steel with a two-ply belt. 
• You get a free 30-day iFit trial.

Cons

• The iFit subscription, which costs $39 a month after free trial, unlocks many of its best features.
• The belt can run a little loud.
• Its undersized 1.9-inch rollers aren’t the best fit for long-distance runners and sprinters.
• Its 12% incline isn’t as high as other luxury treadmills.

BarBend’s tester Jake Herod calls the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 a “super tech-savvy piece of cardio equipment,” with a special nod towards its 22-inch HD touchscreen monitor. Not only can it tilt and swivel while you’re on the belt, but it can also rotate 360 degrees so you can use it during strength, yoga, and meditation classes. 

You can access those classes and roughly 16,000 more via iFit, a trainer-led workout app that brings out the best in the 2450. For example, Google Maps integrations lets runners choose any location in the world — from the Swiss alps to downtown Cleveland — and enjoy a scenic jog through its splendor. Just as it does during classes, the treadmill will automatically adjust your speed and incline settings to suit the challenge. 

After the free month of iFit that comes with the 2450, you’ll have to pay $39 a month for a membership. We’d recommend it, and not just because it helps the 2450 shine. “iFit just honestly knocks it out of the park,” Herod raves in his video review. 

Watch Jake try out the 2450 in the below video. 

https://youtu.be/EmOq24_wKXIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Streamers Paradise? — NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Review (2023) (https://youtu.be/EmOq24_wKXI)

Of course, there’s plenty to like outside of the treadmill’s iFit capabilities, from its stable steel construction to the hydraulic lift system that makes folding it up a breeze. We’re also big fans of its 3.6 CHP motor, which can reach speeds up to 12 miles per hour and support up to 300 pounds. CHP stands for constant horsepower, which works to ensure you won’t have to worry about the motor overheating after several rounds of use. 

We wish its 1.9-inch rollers were a touch bigger, as rollers under 2.5 inches can result in greater wear on the belt, but the 2450’s two-ply belt should offset that somewhat. Regardless, this might not be the best treadmill for long-distance runners or high-volume commercial spaces. 

Since this is our pick for best streaming, we’ll just reiterate how much the display’s HD quality and 360-degree rotation elevate your workouts, both in terms of clarity and functionality. With iFit, the 2450 can assert itself as the centerpiece of any fitness area. 

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill Review. 

Best Budget Commercial Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT

Specs

• Price: $999
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline: 15%
• Weight Capacity: 325lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 66’’ H x 76’’ L x 35’’ W 

Pros

• This budget-friendly treadmill is priced at less than $1,000, which is cheaper than the other picks on this list.
• It supports up to 325 pounds and reaches speeds of 12 miles per hour.
• You can fold it up to save space when not in use.
• You get a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.

Cons

• Its undersized rollers are not suited for long-distance running.
• It lacks the bells and whistles of other treadmills on this list.
• At 277 pounds, it’s a heavy machine.

It might be named the most budget-friendly treadmill, but the Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a reliable machine with plenty of desired features. At $999, the treadmill is priced just right, as similar options could run you anywhere from $1,500 to $1,800. It also comes with a lifetime warranty on both the frame and motor, as well as three years for parts and a year for labor, which should offer some peace of mind. 

The Horizon 7.0 AT packs power with a Rapid Sync Motor that can reach speeds of 12 miles per hour. The 20’’ x 60’’ deck was designed with a three-zone cushion system that provides additional cushioning towards the front of the belt and less towards the back. 

The front-end cushioning eases the impact on your joints during runs and sprints, when you’re placing the most impact on the front of the tread, while the light cushioning on the back end facilitates a better drive off your back foot when gearing up for your next burst. The tread is also capable of a 15 percent incline if you want to practice hill running or steep walks. 

Our testers were pleased with their overall experience on the Horizon 7.0 AT, with nods for the steadiness during runs and the deck’s thoughtful design. We will note, however, that the rollers are undersized at 2.36 inches. That can lead to extra wear on the belt, which we already found a bit thin. Still, for the average runner, it’s plenty capable. 

If you’re planning to set it up in a tight space, the Horizon 7.0 AT is foldable. Other features we like include a tablet holder, a USB charging port, and a pair of speakers. It has a few tech flourishes, including an LCD display with eight different workout programs and Bluetooth compatibility. 

You won’t find advanced stat tracking or any automatic adjustments on the Horizon 7.0 AT, but if you’re looking for a reliable treadmill to help you break a sweat without breaking the bank, you can’t ask for much more. 

Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.

Best Folding Commercial Treadmill: ProForm Pro 9000

Specs

• Price: $2,299
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline: 12%
• Weight Capacity: 300lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 59.6’’ H x 77.3’’ L x 35.3” W

Pros

• Trigger its hydraulic folding option with a light nudge.
• It saves up to 60 inches of floor space when folded up.
• Its 3.6 HP motor supports up to 300 pounds and reaches speeds of 12 miles per hour.
• You get a 10-year warranty on the frame.

Cons

• Inclines only up to 12%, which is slightly less than other models.
• It has no USB or HDMI inputs.
• The WiFi connection can be troublesome.

Gyms only have so much room. Between benches, barbells, free weights, yoga mats, and squat racks, it’s easy to lose yourself in a sea of rubber and steel. The ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill is a kind roommate, however. Not only does it fold to save 60 inches of floor space, but it does so without much added effort on your part — thanks to its EasyLift Assist technology, the Pro 9000 folds up hydraulically with just a light nudge. 

You’ll find plenty to like about it when unfolded as well. The treadmill can support up to 300 pounds and reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour thanks to its robust 3.6 HP motor. The 20’’ x 60’’ deck aims to ease the impact on your joints with built-in shock absorbers and the added give provided by its ReBound Pro technology. 

When giving it a spin, we enjoyed the thick, durable feel of the belt and felt minimal shake during sprints. We were also impressed that it has a -3 percent decline option in addition to its 12 percent incline. 

Keep tabs on your progress via the 22-inch touchscreen, where you can also utilize its Quick Speed Controls section to adjust speed and incline so your intervals aren’t disrupted by excessive button mashing. You also get a free 30-day iFit trial, which allows you to see if its slate of cardio and strength classes are for you (it’ll cost you $39 per month after the initial month). We liked the tech capabilities offered via the Pro 9000, but personally had trouble connecting it to WiFi, which has also been noted in some customer reviews. 

Still, the comfort and convenience provided by the Pro 9000’s numerous features makes its $2,299 price tag a worthy investment. If you’d like a little extra assurance, it also comes with a 10-year warranty for the frame, as well as two-year parts and one-year labor. 

Read our full ProForm Pro 9000 Review.

Best Incline Commercial Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial X32i

Specs

• Price: $4,499
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 40% and -6%
• Weight Capacity: 300lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 73’’ H x 76.5” L x 40” W 

Pros

• One of the rare treadmills with 40% incline and -6% decline (most others only go up to 15%).
• It has adjustable handrails designed for incline work.
• Its 4.25 CHP DurX motor supports up to 300 pounds and reaches speeds of 12 miles per hour.
• It sports a huge 32-inch WiFi-enabled HD touchscreen display.

Cons

• You need an iFit subscription to unlock many of its best features.
• It doesn’t fold up.
• You won’t find any USB or HDMI inputs.
• There’s no media shelf and the water bottle holder is located near back of console.

If you’re a dedicated hiker or hill runner, the NordicTrack Commercial X32i is one of the best treadmills for replicating the craggy terrain of nature indoors. Whereas most treadmills max out their incline options at 15 percent, the X32i puts your quads and glutes to the test with a staggering 40 percent incline. It also offers a decline option of -6 percent, which your muscles will surely appreciate after a good climb. 

The X32i also caters to incline trainers with handrails you can adjust in three different ways: reaching up, straight in front of you, and out to the sides. When using the 40 percent option, our reviewer noted that the high handrails provided some much-needed stability at that precarious incline. 

Equipped with a 4.25 CHP DurX motor, the X32i reaches speeds of up to 12 miles per hour and can support up to 300 pounds. Also, at 22’’ x 65’’, its running deck is a bit roomier than other treads on this list. Most treadmills are only 20” x 55”, making this a good pick for taller users. 

If you’re an iFit user (or want to become one), the X32i works to seamlessly integrate the app into its functionality. Upon purchase, you’ll get 30 free days of iFit, which offers more than 16,000 on-demand fitness classes, and a Bluetooth chest strap heart rate monitor. Both the classes and your heart rate stats unfold on an extra-large WiFi-enabled 32-inch HD display, which is accompanied by a pair of 3-inch speakers. 

During iFit classes, the machine will make hands-free speed and incline adjustments to the trainer’s specifications. If you’d rather march to the beat of your own drum, try iFit’s Google Maps feature to immerse yourself in far-off locales as the treadmill replicates their real-world terrain. 

Of course, even if you don’t stick with iFit (it will cost $39 a month after your free month), the X32i is a knockout for its incline and decline options alone. 

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial x32i Treadmill Review. 

Best Manual Commercial Treadmill: Assault AirRunner Pro

Specs

• Price: $2,999
• Max Speed: Limitless
• Max Incline: None
• Weight Capacity: 350lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 64’’ H x 69.7’’ L x 33.1’’ W

Pros

• This non-motorized, self-powered treadmill helps instill proper running form.
• It’s overbuilt with a corrosion-resistant steel frame.
• It transports easy thanks to built-in handle and transport wheels.
• The UV-resistant monitor is compatible with Bluetooth and ANT+.

Cons

• It has very few modern flourishes.
• It doesn’t fold up. 
• There’s no incline or decline options.

The Assault AirRunner Pro is a non-motorized treadmill that relies on the force of your own steps to propel its belt. The belt is designed with a curve that eases you into its power-based workout, which is tougher than the one you’ll get on an electric treadmill. That’s partly because curved treadmills encourage the user to practice proper form by leading with the ball of their foot and engaging their core. If you’re looking to spice up your gym’s cardio game, the AirRunner Pro might be for you. 

It might take a jog or three to get the hang of its self-powered tread, but the long-term benefits are worth it. Curved treadmills help instill better habits that you can carry with you when taking your workout to the trails and roads outdoors. Adopting a more natural gait decreases your stride length, which research has shown can reduce the impact on your joints. (1) The AirRunner helps, too, as the thin slats on its belt are shock-absorbent. Also, studies show that walking and running on curved treadmills can lead to “a significant increase in calorie burn and RPE (rate of perceived exertion).” (2) 

According to research, a decreased stride length results in less impact, meaning your joints will take less of a beating.

We were impressed by the AirRunner’s heavy-duty, shock-absorbent belt and corrosion-resistant steel frame, both of which were designed to withstand years of use. When it comes to longevity, curved models also have an edge over traditional treadmills in that their lack of motor means you won’t have to worry about electrical shorts or frayed wires. 

You won’t find many modern touches on the AirRunner, though it does have a UV-resistant console with onboard training programs and is compatible with both Bluetooth and ANT+. As many five-star customer reviews note, though, the appeal of non-motorized treadmills is the ability to hop on and start running without having to fiddle with any knobs or settings. 

At $2,999, the AirRunner is about average when it comes to the price of curved treadmills. Between the cost and the fact that curved treadmills feel so different from electric models, you’ll definitely want to take one for a stroll before purchasing. As we noted in our review, curved treadmills like the AirRunner are best suited for “more advanced runners who can hold their own pace without a motor and speed controls doing it for them.” 

Read our full Assault AirRunner Pro Treadmill Review. 

Most Durable Commercial Treadmill: Sole TT8

Specs

• Price: $2,699.99
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline: 15%
• Weight Capacity: 400lbs
• Machine Dimensions: 66’’ H x 82.5″ L x 38″ W

Pros

• This reinforced steel machine has a two-ply belt and reversible deck that supports up to 400 pounds.
• It has three-inch crowned rollers to reduce wear on the belt.
• Its 4.0 HP motor has a 10-pound flywheel for smooth transitions.
• You get lifetime frame and motor warranties.

Cons

• It only tracks basic metrics like speed, pace, calories burned, and pulse.
• It’s not foldable.

Designed for dedicated runners, the Sole TT8 Treadmill is the most durable treadmill on this list thanks to its tough-as-nails build and two-ply belt. Whether you’re sprinting, running, or walking, the TT8 is meant to stick with you for the long haul.

Several five-star customer reviews concur. “This running deck never feels like it’s struggling to take my most aggressive pounding steps,” writes one user. “I feel like I can do anything on it without feeling like it’s fragile.” 

The reinforced steel frame supports up to 400 pounds, the most of any treadmill on this list. It’s also fitted with three-inch crowned rollers, which work to ease the amount of wear and tear on the belt. The reversible deck is also infused with a wax coating that can withstand up to 20,000 miles of use. As the years go on, simply reapply paraffin wax to ensure a smooth run. 

The 4.0 HP motor, meanwhile, gets a boost from a 10-pound flywheel that promises smooth transitions as sprinters crank up the speed or attempt its max incline of 15 percent. The TT8 also includes a -6 percent decline option, which should prove helpful during hill training. The TT8’s incline feature came up a lot in reviews. “This machine has a killer incline! Wow!” writes one user. “If you want a machine that will work your legs and butt this is it.”

Its 10.1-inch LCD display keeps tabs on your speed, pace, calories burned, pulse, and heart rate, the latter of which can be measured via a pair of pulse grips. You can also connect the treadmill to compatible devices via Bluetooth, allowing you to soundtrack runs with motivational tunes and port your stats over to Sole’s mobile app. 

This is a treadmill for runners who want a straightforward machine that can take a beating and provide the best possible workout. Thanks to its lifetime frame and motor warranties, you can take comfort in knowing the TT8 will remain part of your gym long into the foreseeable future. 

Read our full Sole TT8 Review.

How We Chose the Best Commercial Treadmills

When choosing the best commercial treadmills, we zeroed in on factors such as longevity, versatility, and cost to provide a range of options. It’s likely that the machine will attract users of varying fitness levels, so we sought to choose treadmills that can suit the walker as much as the sprinter.

Longevity

Commercial treadmills should be able to withstand multiple runs, walks, and climbs on a day-to-day basis. As such, we took a close look at the frames and motors of our picks to ensure that they can handle that kind of frequency. 

Some of these treadmills are made of tougher materials than others, but each incorporates steel into their construction and supports between 300 and 400 pounds. They can all reach speeds of 12 miles per hour thanks to their robust motors, and several of the pricier models utilize constant horsepower (CHP), which works to resist overheating better than traditional motors, thus making it ideal for frequently-used machines. Several of our picks come with lifetime warranties on both their frame and motor, while others guarantee their machines for anywhere between five and 10 years. 

Versatility

Since commercial treadmills are generally used by a variety of different athletes, we chose treadmills that cater to different body types and cardio interests. All of the machines on this list can support between 300 and 400 pounds, and were built with running decks larger than the 20’’ x 55’’ standard, making them accessible for users of all heights. 

Each machine excels at the core purpose of any treadmill — walking, running, and sprinting — but we also wanted to highlight models that keep workouts fresh, whether that’s through incline and decline options or integrated fitness platforms like iFit, which provide a plethora of strength and flexibility classes in addition to cardio training. 

Since every gym is different, we also looked for versatility in terms of functionality. Several of the treadmills on our list can fold up for easy storage, while others can help cultivate an air of luxury in your fitness space with plentiful storage and HD touchscreens. Some of these treadmills have more tech capabilities than others, but all of them allow the runner to link up mobile devices via Bluetooth to stream their own tunes and link up with fitness trackers and heart rate monitors. 

Cost

Commercial treadmills tend to be bigger, stronger, and pack more features than standard treadmills. Our picks range from $999 to $4,499, with the majority falling somewhere between $2,000 and $3,000. The most expensive commercial treadmills tend to have features that are rare in similar models, whether that’s a higher-than-average incline percentage or a display with as much clarity as the HDTV in your living room. They’re also typically built with top-tier materials, from crowned rollers to belts that are reversible, perma-waxed, or two-ply to help prolong their life. 

Our budget treadmills may lack the bells and whistles of the pricier models, but we wouldn’t have included them if we didn’t think they were reliable machines capable of giving you the best possible workout. The motor might hum a little louder and the frame might rattle the slightest bit during sprints, but it can be easier to live with such minor issues if you don’t have the cash to shell out for a luxury model. Ultimately, you’ll want to consider your own personal fitness needs, those of the others in your gym or household who will be using it, and the space you see it settling in. 

What do Commercial Treadmills Cost? 

Commercial treadmills can range anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the brand, size, materials, and special features. Anyone can work up a good sweat on budget models that run between $1,000 and $2,500, but if your commercial treadmill is going to be at the center of a high-traffic gym or fitness center, it’s wise to invest in a machine that can handle constant use from a wide variety of users on a day-to-day basis. As the high-grade materials, diverse range of features, and cutting-edge tech capabilities pile up, so, too, does the price. 

What to Consider Before Buying a Commercial Treadmill

A commercial treadmill can support hundreds, if not thousands, of different sneakers across many years, but choosing the right model at a price that suits your budget requires a closer look at a variety of factors, including its placement in your gym and the people you see using it. 

Price

On average, commercial treadmills cost more than those targeted at casual runners. They were designed not for the footfalls of a single user, after all, but a vast range of runners, sprinters, and walkers. As such, you want a treadmill that won’t rattle, malfunction, or slip its belt within the first few years of use. The most expensive models come equipped with steel frames, robust motors, two-ply belts, and crowned rollers, not to mention the kinds of app integration and tech capabilities that provide variety and comfortability. 

If you’re looking for a budget commercial treadmill, we recommend choosing one that doesn’t skimp on sturdy construction in favor of more modern conveniences. There are plenty of reliable budget models that will provide a great workout well into the future so long as you’re willing to sacrifice some of the more high-tech flourishes. Plenty of them have strong warranties, too, so that’s another factor worth seeking out in your search. 

Frequency of Use

Commercial treadmills were designed to be strong and versatile enough to satisfy a variety of different users on a daily basis. When looking at your options, consider how often you see the machine being used. How many people do you see using it every day? Are they marathon runners, interval trainers, hill climbers, or power walkers? Will they want special features like integrated fitness apps and storage compartments? 

The more people that use it, the more you’ll want to invest in a machine that’s built with the kinds of high-grade materials that promise longevity. The more diverse its user base will be, the more you’ll want to invest in incline options, cutting-edge technology, and built-in fitness programs. If those using it are casual athletes who just want a reliable treadmill that can help them work up a good sweat, you can feel safe investing in more budget-friendly options. 

Space

It’s also important to consider where you plan on setting the treadmill up. Will it occupy a public space, like a commercial gym or community fitness center? Or are you investing in a machine for the cardio enthusiasts in your own home? Will it be the centerpiece of the space or one of several cardio machines? 

Commercial treadmills tend to be larger and heavier than home treadmills, so you’ll also want to consider if it will encroach on the dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, yoga mats, and other equipment scattered throughout. If so, you’ll want to consider a treadmill’s footprint, portability, and whether or not it can fold up to save space. 

Electric vs. Motorless

When we think of treadmills, we think about electric treadmills. You hop on, you choose a speed or incline setting, the motor kicks to life, and you keep pace with it. You’ll get a great workout with an electric treadmill, but it’s not the only option for those looking for more of a challenge during indoor runs. 

With motorless treadmills, you set the pace. When you step on the curved, slatted belt of a non-motorized treadmill, it’s on you to step forward and move the tread forward. It requires more effort and a bit of practice to get the hang of, but running this way helps improve your running form and is also easier on the joints. They also run quieter and, by virtue of having no motor, help you save a buck or two on the power bill. 

Benefits of Commercial Treadmills

Like any good cardio machine, commercial treadmills can help improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your posterior chain, and burn a whole lot of calories. They’re also built to last in ways more compact models aren’t. Let’s elaborate on more treadmill benefits below. 

Built to Last

Commercial treadmills often come with a variety of technological capabilities and access to integrated fitness apps, but their real selling point is durability and longevity. Since it’s likely they’ll feel the slap of thousands of sneakers in their lifetime, they’re typically constructed to have rugged frames and motors that are specifically designed to resist overheating during periods of extended use. The belts, meanwhile, are often reinforced and reversible, riding on rollers that ideally range between 2.5 and 3.5 inches, all of which helps to prolong the life of the belt.

The brawnier design of commercial treadmills allows them to support more weight and accommodate more body types than other models. Commercial treadmills can comfortably support between 300 and 400 pounds, and their running surfaces typically add a few inches to the 20’’ x 55’’ standard so taller runners don’t need to worry about knocking their knees on the console. 

Improved Cardiovascular Health

Cardio workouts are an essential part of any fitness routine, helping to improve heart health, burn calories, and even improve mental health. (3) Treadmills cater to people of all fitness levels, from marathon runners to those who enjoy a leisurely stroll. You don’t have to spike your heart rate every time you hit the belt — studies have shown that consistent walks at a low or moderate intensity can have important cardiovascular benefits. (4) Even if you prefer navigating local roads or trails under the sun, having a treadmill at home ensures you can safely train when the weather isn’t cooperating. 

Variety

Since commercial treadmills aren’t designed for a single user, but rather a variety of different athletes, they tend to come equipped with more special features. That can include incline and decline options for more intense training, as well integrated fitness apps that offer a library of trainer-led endurance, HIIT, and Tabata workouts. 

Final Word

Commercial treadmills are sturdy and versatile machines, which is helpful if you’re looking to beef up your commercial gym or invest in a more robust treadmill for your home. The best of the bunch are designed for longevity with steel frames, reliable motors, and reinforced belts capable of supporting more than 300 pounds. 

Before choosing a commercial treadmill, you’ll want to consider the range of people you see using the machine, as well as the variety they might expect from it. Budget treadmills will give you a great workout, but they might not be able to stand up to the demands of a high-volume environment. Pricier models tend to be made of tougher stuff and can also include comforts like integrated fitness apps and HD displays, but they’ll cost you a pretty penny. 

FAQs

References

1. Hatchett, Andrew, Armstrong, Kaitlyn, Parr, Brian, Crews, Mallory, Tant, Charlie, “The Effect of a Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill on Running Gait Length, Imbalance and Stride Angle” (2018). Sports (Basel), 6(3): 58.
2. Robertson, Nicholas, “Comparing Calorie Expenditure and Rating of Perceived Exertion between the Curve and a Motorized Treadmill” (2014). EWU Masters Thesis Collection. 268.
3. Markotić, Vedran, Pokrajčić, Vladimir, Babić, Mario, Radančević, Dorijan, Grle, Maki, Miljko, Miro, Kosović, Vilma, Jurić, Ivan, Karlović Vidaković, Marijana (2020). “The Positive Effects of Running on Mental Health.” Psychiatria Danubina, 32(Suppl 2), 233-235. 
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