The Best Home Treadmill Buying Guide for 2021 is here to help you make wise purchase decisions when it comes to investing in a folding treadmill that will suit your home.
So if you’re looking to do just that, then you’re in the right place. I’m here to help you figure out the things you need to consider and if a folding treadmill is exactly what you need for your home.
To start off, let’s answer the question: why should you pick a folding treadmill instead of any other fitness equipment?
I could enumerate a lot of reasons why a folding treadmill is the best choice for anyone who is looking to upgrade their home gym or just wants to exercise and lose weight effectively. But then the list would be endless. So here are just some of those reasons I think are the most significant ones:
A folding treadmill will benefit you whether you’re a casual runner, fitness enthusiast, or professional athlete.
It can effectively help you reach your fitness goals as it can cater from light to moderate exercises to more intense interval or hill training if you want to work on your cardio.
You can easily incorporate daily fitness into your lifestyle even if you have a busy schedule because you’ll have a treadmill right in the comfort of your own home.
Before You Buy
Before we skip to the actual treadmills, I highly recommend doing your research first so you don’t go buying units blindly and end up regretting it later.
Find Out What Workouts You’ll Be Doing With The Treadmill
Not all folding treadmills are made equally. Some are done better than others, some have a lot of extra features, and there are some that are as basic as it gets. But that doesn’t mean the latter is not a good option.
Obviously, a lot of you would want a running machine that comes with a lot of perks. But keep in mind those come at a cost. So to manage your options wisely, find out first what kind of workouts you’re into as well as your fitness goals.
This will really help you not get overwhelmed with the number of treadmills to look for out there in the market and will narrow down your best options.
Set Your Budget And Expectations
One of the most important things you need to consider before making any final investments in a folding treadmill for your home is your budget.
Understandably, not everyone can easily shell out a thousand dollars for a piece of fitness equipment. That’s completely fine though and achieving our fitness goals shouldn’t be a luxury in the first place.
That being said, if your budget is set for under a thousand dollars, there are plenty of home treadmills to choose from that are still of great quality. But be prepared that they won’t come with some of the more high-tech features premium models have.
Premium features come with a premium price after all. But the important thing is that you have a treadmill that works and keeps you healthy.
Determine Your Space Available For The Folding Treadmill
When it comes to folding treadmills for your home, size definitely matters.
So it’s best to check the measurements of your spare space where you’ll be putting your home treadmill. Thankfully, folding treadmills are a great way to reclaim our floor space when it’s not in use. All you have to do is fold it then store it somewhere in your house.
Check Out Reliable And Trusted Brands
When it comes to manufacturers and brands of different treadmills, you have to make sure you’re in safe hands. So it’s best to read reviews of actual consumers to see just how reliable their home treadmills are in terms of quality and durability.
After you’ve determined the brands manufacturing folding treadmills, it’s time to read up on their warranty coverages. This is so you know how many years they will cover your machine in case it breaks or needs any part replacements.
Some brands offer lifetime warranties which is terrific, some offer just 5 years, some even offer much less. Of course, you would want to buy a treadmill unit from a company that has your back for several years to come.
Try It Before You Buy It
Some of you prefer buying your folding treadmills online and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if it’s possible for you, I would highly suggest trying your desired treadmill in a physical store first (while following safety protocols of course!).
Online shopping is great and all but sometimes you would encounter unsatisfactory products every now and then because you haven’t really tested out the actual product yet. That leads to a lot of stress of having to return the item back and sometimes customer support isn’t as supportive as we thought it would be.
So to avoid all those things and to save you from the hassle, try to make a quick trip to a physical fitness equipment store near you to check how you really feel about the treadmill you have set your eyes on.
Specifications And Features To Look Out For
Now that you’ve done your full research with folding treadmills, let’s dive into the specifications and features you might want your desired running machine to have.
When it comes to your chosen treadmill’s horsepower, you need to determine the type of workouts you’ll be doing to see if the machine is compatible or powerful enough to support and accommodate your preferred exercises.
The horsepower of a treadmill is measured by its strength. But keep in mind there are two kinds of horsepower or motors that you might see in different treadmills: Horsepower (HP) and Continuous Duty Horsepower (CHP).
If you’re just seeing the normal horsepower, it means the motor of the treadmill has no actual evidence of its strength when used over time. So this is not the most reliable.
However if a manufacturer puts CHP in their treadmill, it means its motor has been assessed and its measurement has been taken over an extended period of time. The strength of the motor is assured to maintain its power without faltering or straining from being used over time.
Max Speed Rating & Incline Range
In terms of a treadmill’s max speed rating and incline range, it’s always good to have variety. So I recommend choosing a treadmill that at least has a maximum of 10 MPH and up to 10 incline levels.
This way, our workout sessions never get dull or repetitive. It’s also a good way to challenge ourselves every now and then.
Deck Cushioning
Deck cushioning is important as this will help decrease the impact and stress our joints go through when we run.
Most treadmills for home use nowadays offer some kind of cushioning mechanism unique to their units. So it’s best to research which one will work the best for you. This is also where trying treadmills in physical stores come in handy. You’ll be able to figure out if a certain treadmill is comfortable enough for you.
Max User Weight Capacity
A treadmill’s max user weight capacity is important to determine so you know if a certain unit will be able to support you. Usually, the standard units have a weight capacity of around 200-300 lbs. If you’re on the heavier side, the 300 lbs. may either work or not work for you.
But don’t lose hope as there are still plenty of treadmills out in the market that can accommodate heavier individuals with ease. Though the ones I’ve seen do come at a higher cost. So keep this in mind!
Workout Presets
The average home treadmill usually has at least around 10 presets to choose from. Depending on who is using the machine, 10 workout programs can be either too little or just enough. But some more impressive treadmills offer up to 30 different workout presets like the Horizon Fitness T101. And that one is a budget-friendly option too!
Either way, it really depends on you to determine how many workout programs you want your treadmill to have. Some treadmills also offer subscription-based programs like iFit so you can have access to their library of different workout classes, programs, interactive coaches, and so much more!
Other Accessories
Some extra accessories a home treadmill can have are heart monitoring features, Bluetooth connectivity, built-in speakers, a device tray, a wattle bottle holder, and so much more. It’s really just up to you whether you’d want these added features included in your chosen running machine.
But do keep in mind, these kinds of features can come at a cost. Though there are definitely budget options out there in the market.
Our safety when using fitness equipment is not something we should overlook. Especially for our elderly fitness enthusiasts and individuals who have pets or children out there. So I highly suggest picking a home treadmill with an auto-stop feature.
The auto-stop feature is usually controlled by a key that is attached to you via a lanyard. So if you slip, the key slips out of its hole, and the treadmill automatically stops. You can also opt to remove this particular key when the treadmill is not in use to prevent any accidental activation of the machine.
Conclusion
To sum it up, a folding treadmill is a great addition to your home whether you’re a professional athlete or a casual runner. It’s versatile, effective in helping you reach your fitness goals, and you can easily get that daily mileage without having to step out of the comfort of your own home.
Now that we’re at the end of my Home Treadmill Buying Guide For 2021, I can only hope that I was able to help you figure things out. After learning all of these, you are now ready to invest in a folding treadmill for yourself and your home gym. Happy shopping!
Do you already own a folding treadmill for your home? Was I able to help you figure out the things you need to know before buying a folding treadmill? Let me know your insights below in the comments section!
The Horizon Fitness T101 is the perfect folding treadmill for you if you’re not into long-distance runs or too intense exercises. But let’s find out in our dedicated review below why this is the best budget-friendly option for you.
Runners and fitness enthusiasts who prefer light to moderate walks or jogs will certainly love the Horizon Fitness T101.
Manufactured by Horizon Fitness, they are a company that manufactures low-cost yet high-quality gym equipment for your homes to provide for fitness enthusiasts who are on a tight budget. They prioritize comfort, value, and making sure you get the best results from using their products.
Who says staying healthy and getting fit needs to come at a luxury price, right?
With such an affordable price tag, the T101 also doesn’t get too overcomplicated with the features it’s equipped with. They’re not too high-tech as those tend to cost more. But at the same time, there are also a lot of really useful and handy features built-in into this modest running machine for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Warranty: Lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, parts and labor have 1 year.
Extra Features: Built-in cooling fans, Bluetooth connectivity so you can sync your device on the T101’s integrated speakers, energy saver mode, device holder, audio input jack, USB charging port, and heart rate monitoring.
Check out the Horizon Fitness T101’s preview below.
Let’s discuss the things that makes us love the T101.
Budget-friendly Price
One of the main things that attract us to the T101 is its affordability. Despite having an inexpensive price tag, you’re getting a lot of value for this machine and some features you’ll only experience in more high-end folding treadmills.
So if durability, stability, or functionality is a concern of yours, the T101 won’t certainly disappoint. With this unit, you don’t have to burn a hole through your wallet to get a high-quality running machine.
Great Variety of Preset Workout Programs
Another amazing feature of the T101 is its large variety of preset workout programs
You’re actually getting up to 30 different preset workout programs to choose from with this model and they’re all free! Even folding treadmills on the more premium side don’t have this many preset programs to offer.
Usually, those high-end treadmills offer around 10 to 15 built-in workout programs then give their users an option to join a subscription-based library of workout programs so they have more access to classes and even interactive trainers.
The T101 doesn’t have that option but it definitely makes up for its 30 preset workout programs. Not to mention, you won’t have to pay a single dime to access it.
3-Zone Cushioning Deck System
If you’re worried about putting too much stress or impact on your joints, the T101 has a unique 3-zone cushioning deck system that provides comfort on its users and will help decrease the stress on your joints as well as your spine.
This way, you can run pain-free for longer sessions and without having to concern yourself with the soreness you’ll feel after your exercise.
Wide Range Of Incline Levels
Horizon Fitness offers up to 10 levels of incline with their T101 model. If you ask me, that’s pretty decent and even at par with other high-end models that offer the same levels of incline.
Not to mention, the T101 also allows auto adjustment so you don’t have to hop off the machine to change your incline levels mid-workout. You can easily switch up the incline to include some variety in your walks and jogs. This will also help you get better results in the long run.
Bluetooth Connectivity
I don’t see a lot of folding treadmills having the option for Bluetooth connectivity. So it’s really nice that the T101 has this feature available for us. Especially if you’re someone who loves to listen to music, podcasts, or even watch shows while you burn through your calories.
All you have to do is connect your device to the T101’s built-in Bluetooth speakers and voila! You can now be entertained and exercise at the same time. Who said working out has to be dull and boring, right?
Usually, other folding treadmills require an AUX input or a USB before you can enjoy your media consumption. But we are slowly going towards a future wherein everything is becoming wireless. So it’s great to know that Horizon Fitness made sure their T101 is future-proof.
But in case you prefer having your device wired to the built-in speaker system, the T101 allows that as well.
Maximum User Weight Capacity
The T101 can easily accommodate fitness enthusiasts and runners weighing up to 300 lbs. without a fuss. For a folding treadmill of this level and price, that is already quite impressive.
A lot of the running machines I’ve checked out that fall within the same price range or are more budget-friendly tend to support the average or lighter individuals.
Impressive Warranty Coverage
For a folding treadmill of this level and price, I would expect only getting a handful of years in terms of warranty coverage. But I am gladly surprised that Horizon Fitness offers a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, while you get 1 year on labor and parts.
Least Favorite Things
No product is ever perfect, so here are a few things we were a bit disappointed in with the T101. So we’d like you to consider these before making your final purchase.
Not Meant For More Intense Training Or Long Distance Runs
Due to the 2.5 horsepower on the T101’s motor, this places the machine to only be suitable for light to moderate walks and jogging.
Unfortunately, if you’re looking forward to doing some intense interval or hill training or any long-distance running, you will be quite disappointed.
It’s best to set your sights on another folding treadmill that will be able to handle your preferred workout routines.
The Running Surface Area Is A Little Small
Shorter or smaller individuals won’t have too much of an issue with the 20 x 55 inches measurement of the T101’s running surface area. But if you’re on the taller or bigger side of the spectrum, you might feel a little cramped up in space. If you’re someone who takes longer strides when running, this might not be suitable for you as well.
Faulty Or Broken Parts When Delivered
Now, this doesn’t apply to every T101 unit delivered, but it does happen and the users have reported and complained about those faulty or broken parts upon unboxing their packages.
However, as I’ve previously mentioned, the T101 does have a great warranty coverage so you can easily get those certain parts replaced in case those types of unfortunate situations arise.
So this is just something for you to keep in mind when considering of purchasing this folding treadmill for your home.
In A Nutshell
Here’s a narrowed down list of the good and the bad with the Horizon Fitness T101.
Pros
Great for anyone who is looking for a folding treadmill at a budget-friendly price.
Great for beginners and fitness enthusiasts who just like light to moderate walks or jogs on their folding treadmills.
The 3-Zone Cushioning Deck System is ideal for anyone who wants less stress and less impact on their joints when running.
30 different workout programs to choose from so you’re getting a lot of variety.
Quiet operation when in use.
Impressive warranty coverage.
The maximum user weight capacity is quite nice as well for its price.
Has built-in cooling fans and Bluetooth speakers to keep you fresh as well as keep you entertained during your workout sessions.
Cons
The 2.5 horsepower is only suitable for light to moderate walking or jogging.
The 20-inch x 55-inch tread belt is quite short.
There have been instances of faulty or broken parts were delivered to customers.
Cushioning is pretty mediocre.
Final Verdict
Overall, I think the Horizon Fitness T101 shines the brightest among a sea of budget-friendly folding treadmills for your home. It does a pretty good job on what it is supposed to do and delivers well on its promises.
You have to manage your expectations with the T101, though. If you’re looking for more high-tech features like interactive training and having access to a library of subscription-based workout programs like iFit, you’re going to have to shell out more money or look for brands that offer those certain features.
If you don’t mind the few bells and whistles the T101 compromised on and you just prefer doing light to moderate walks or jogs with your folding treadmill, the T101 would be perfect for you.
Do you already own the Horizon Fitness T101 or considering of getting one? Let me know about your experiences or thoughts about this particular folding treadmill! Just leave your insights below in the comments section.
The Sole Fitness F80 is one of the most popular folding treadmills being sold in the market right now. A lot of people recommend this machine if you’re looking for a mid-range priced folding treadmill.
So in this dedicated review, we’ll find out if this running machine is worth the hype it’s getting and if it’s really as good as everyone says.
A folding treadmill is one of the best folding equipment you can invest in right now. Especially when public gyms are working in a limited capacity. With a folding treadmill, we can still get those runs and cardio in our regular workout routines without having to step outside in the comfort of our home.
If you’ve been on the hunt for a versatile folding treadmill that is solid, won’t falter, and are equipped with high quality features, then your search is finally over.
Let me introduce to you the Sole Fitness F80.
If you’re unaware of who Sole Fitness is, they’re a company specializing in manufacturing fitness equipment that is high quality and long-lasting. They are a receiver of multiple awards for their top-tier and commercial grade products and are easily one of the go-to brands of numerous people in the states.
The F80 is actually Sole Fitness‘s flagship model in their lineup of folding treadmills. If you think about it, other folding treadmills in this price range under popular brands usually only offer their entry-level units. So you’re getting so much more for this value with the F80.
With a mid-range price tag, this running machine is built like a beast that is meant to last you for a long, long time. The F80 is made up of high-quality commercial grade parts to provide you with the most comfortable workout session ever.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 85.43 x 37.01 x 17.32 inches (LxWxH)
Preset Workouts / Fitness Programs: Six standard programs, two custom programs, and two heart programs.
Warranty: lifetime warranty on the frame, 5 years on parts, 2 years on labor.
Extra Features: Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, Sole Fitness app, two-ply belt, pulse grip, and chest strap heart rate monitoring.
Check out Sole Fitness’ preview of the F80 below.
What We Love About The Sole Fitness F80
Let’s dive in to what makes the F80 so hyped about.
Cushion Flex Whisper Deck
The F80 folding treadmill has impressive shock absorption that allows you to go for more intense and grueling runs so you can get the best results out of your cardio routines without the risk of stressing or straining your joints.
This is all thanks to the F80’s unique feature called the Cushion Flex Whisper Deck.
The Cushion Flex Whisper Deck helps in minimizing the stress and impact by up to 40% in comparison when you’re running on asphalt. With this kind of feature, you worry a lot less about the impact your joints are getting with each run. In turn, you can focus more on your stats and getting optimum results in every workout session.
Overall, the F80’s top quality cushioning system is designed in a way to take the stress off your joints so that you can run without it being painful.
The 3.5 Horsepower
The F80 is equipped with a 3.5 horsepower motor. This means the F80 can withstand even the most intense and demanding workouts for running without a fuss.
So if you really want to improve and work on your cardio at home, the F80 has your back. What’s more, this folding treadmill can also easily support any grueling workout from long-distance runs to interval and hill training. You’re certain to not feel any faltering or shaking as you shred through those calories.
Incline Range and Top Speed Limit
The F80 has an incline range from 0 up to 15%. That in itself is pretty great as you’re getting 15 levels of incline. So if you really want to challenge yourself during your workouts or do more interval and hill training, you have a lot of options to choose from with this folding treadmill.
Aside from the impressive incline, you can go as fast as 12 miles per hour with the F80 as well. This makes it perfect if you like long-distance runs and intense cardio workouts.
Large Running Surface Area
The F80 has a pretty roomy deck that measures 22 x 60. So if you’re on the heavier side or just generally prefer a larger running surface area, then the F80 is perfect for you. You won’t feel too cramped up as you exercise.
Reversible Deck
One of the best features of the F80 is its reversible deck. This will help prolong your F80’s longevity and durability. You won’t have to worry about replacing your unit after a few years. Just simply flip the deck once the other side you’ve been using has worn out.
Terrific Maximum User Weight Capacity
With a 375-lb. max user weight capacity, this is perfectly suited for individuals who lean more onto the heavier side. This running machine will easily support you without feeling any trembles or shakes in the machine while you use it.
Apart from that, athletes and casual fitness enthusiasts who like long-distance runs will also love this sturdy treadmill. In general, because the F80 has a user weight capacity of up to 375 lbs. or 170 kg, it can easily accommodate a wider range of runners and fitness enthusiasts of any size.
Ergonomic Folding Design
If you’re stressed about having to manually fold your treadmills before storing them, well no need to worry! The F80 can be folded with a single push of a button. No need to stress about putting further strain on yourself after an intense workout. Just let the F80 do its work then you can easily store this in whichever part of your house.
Amazing Warranty
Sole Fitness offers its users a lifetime warranty on the F80’s frame, motor, and deck, 5 years on parts, and 2 years on labor. Personally, I just think that’s pretty amazing coverage on a running machine of this level.
After covering the things we liked about the F80, let’s move on to a few things we were a little disappointed in.
Limited Preset Workout Programs
When compared to other competing folding treadmills in its range, the F80 tends to fall behind in terms of the built-in preset workout programs on this machine.
With NordicTrack, you get the option of joining their iFit subscription plus 20 free preset programs built into their unit. Then the BowFlex T10 offers the JRNY Experience which is another subscription-based app.
On the other hand, the F80 only has 10 preset workout programs and no subscription-based workout library apps for people who might be interested.
The Price
I’ve mentioned before that the F80 has great value for its price. After all, you’re getting a flagship model for a mid-range price from a premium manufacturer as opposed to other high end brands who only offer their entry-level folding treadmills within this price range.
But for some of you, spending over a thousand dollars for a folding treadmill for your home is a bit much. Which I understand completely. Especially when you can find cheaper and more budget-friendly alternatives out there in the market by comprising some bells and whistles.
In A Nutshell
Here’s a narrowed down list of the good and the bad with the F80.
Pros
The best folding treadmill you can find within its price range.
Terrific maximum user weight capacity.
Compact and easy-to-use design.
Great warranty coverage.
Suitable for individuals who like intense and longer runs.
Built-in cooling fans to keep you fresh during workout sessions.
You can opt to install the Sole Fitness App for free on your smartphone or tablet to keep track of your progress.
Quiet operation when in use.
Comfortable to use due to its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck feature.
You get a lot of fun extra features.
Cons
The mid-range price can still be pricier for some people.
Very limited range of workout programs to choose from compared to other competing folding treadmills in its range.
Not the most compact folding treadmill.
Final Verdict
Overall, I really like the Sole F80. I think it’s a solid folding treadmill that doesn’t go overboard or too complicated with its features. It’s easy to use for everyone while being compact and durable at the same time.
With a mid-range price, you are really getting your money’s worth and more. The only real drawback I see is the limited number of preset workout programs built in the F80. Even so, you can just opt to slot in your smartphone or tablet in its device holder to choose your own workout programs to follow.
So it’s pretty hard to go wrong with choosing this running machine.
If you want a sturdy and versatile folding treadmill that covers almost everything you’ll need from pain-free, long-distance runs to accommodating runners of every size, I highly recommend getting the F80.
Already own or still thinking of buying the Sole Fitness F80? Let me know about your thoughts on this folding treadmill in the comments section below!
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The ongoing pandemic has changed a lot of things in our lifestyle. From how we socialize with other people to how we take care of our health. For some of you, staying healthy means keeping up with regular exercises. But what happens when the gym is not an option? Well, I got you covered. In this article, I’ll be giving you my top recommendations of the best folding treadmills for home use this 2021.
Why Should I Get A Treadmill For My Home?
Before we get into the actual products, some of you might be wondering: why a treadmill?
I could have chosen any other gym equipment that would probably take less space in your house and you’re right. But if you’re a runner, doesn’t matter if you’re an athlete or just someone who casually likes to run, then you’ll surely appreciate this topic.
I chose treadmills as the main focus of this article for two reasons: one being I already wrote another article about ellipticals for your home gym, which you can read here. The second reason is that a treadmill can easily be used for either intense cardio or more light workouts just by adjusting the settings. Additionally, I like to run as well.
A folding treadmill is your best bet if you really want to keep running as part of your workout routine. Rain or shine, you’ll be in the comfort of your own home and still be able to burn through those calories.
While it’s understandable that a folding treadmill it’s still a pretty big piece of furniture, you have to admit it still saves a significant amount of space compared to a traditional treadmill. There are units out there that can collapse so it fits in a closet for easy storage and you can easily reclaim your floor space.
Apart from that, a folding treadmill is just generally a fun and great addition to your home gym. You can spice up your workouts with a treadmill through different ways by adjusting the settings, increasing your incline from time to time, and some treadmills also offer a personal coach you can interact with through their built-in screens.
Whatever it is you’re looking for in a folding treadmill, this list will surely have something for you.
My Top Recommendations
1. NordicTrack T 6.5s Treadmill
Overview
If you’re looking for the best of the best when it comes to folding treadmills, look no further. The NordicTrack T 6.5s is the one you need to set your eyes on.
In case you’re unfamiliar with the brand, NordicTrack is a very well-known and well-trusted premium personal gym equipment manufacturer for your home. They promise to elevate every workout experience for their users through their impressive personal training programs that are tailored just for you.
The NordicTrack T 6.5s is just one of the best entry-level units in their full home gym lineup and this takes the top spot in our list of the best folding treadmills for home use this 2021.
With their equipped iFit programs, you’ll never get a boring workout session with the NordicTrack T 6.5s. You can also opt to get a personal coach you can interact with in real-time through the screen. Your trainer can auto-adjust your speed and incline through a smart Bluetooth connection.
Additionally, the SMART-Response Motor allows for for effective speed, interval, and endurance training. While the FlexSelect deck cushioning protects your joints so you can solely focus on your workout without worrying about possible soreness and injuries.
The NordicTrack T 6.5s also has an innovative SpaceSaver design with EasyLift Assist that lets you fold your treadmill after working out in a compact and portable design.
The Sole Fitness F80 Folding Treadmill is a real beast and something you should definitely consider if you want a folding treadmill that is built to last you for several years.
Equipped with commercial grade parts, the F80 will surely provide you with a comfortable workout session due to its excellent shock absorption. This will allow you to run or walk on your folding treadmill daily without the risk of too much soreness.
Unlike NordicTrack T 6.5s, the F80 can easily support trainees who enjoy longer runs as well as individuals on the heavier side who might demand more from their treadmill. This means you can also enjoy more intense and grueling workouts without worrying that this machine will falter. This is all thanks to the F80’s 3.5 HP motor.
If you live with other people in your house and don’t want to disturb them during your exercises, the F80 has you covered. The durable two-ply belt and 2.5 inch rollers will help keep the folding treadmill quiet while limiting tear and wear as you use it over time.
When it comes to comfortability, the F80 has a Cushion Flex Whisper Deck feature that minimized the stress and impact on your joints by 40% compared to when you’re running on asphalt or on any road.
Aside from its top-quality parts and somewhat ergonomic features, the Sole Fitness F80 can also conveniently fold up automatically with a single push of a button. How cool, right? Now you don’t have to worry about putting pressure on yourself to fold your treadmill after a tiring workout session. Just push the button then store!
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 85.43 x 37.01 x 17.32 inches (LxWxH)
Horizon Fitness T101 is an ideal candidate of folding treadmills if you prefer light or moderate workouts or runs. Not to mention, it’s quite affordable too! So if you’re on a budget and don’t want to splurge that much, this is a solid machine to give a thought.
If you’re unaware of the brand, Horizon Fitness provides and distributes low-cost treadmills and other fitness equipment for your home. Their T101 in their treadmill series is their entry-level unit with a foldable and compact design for easy storage.
Due to its incredibly affordable price, the T101 is one of their bestsellers. Because besides its budget-friendly price tag, the machine itself is still pretty high quality and can support up to 300 pounds of user weight capacity.
The T101 has thirty built-in workout programs that offer time, distance, and calorie targets as well as manual, interval, and weight-loss workouts to keep your exercise routines varied and challenging.
Other features of the T101 include a Bluetooth speaker system for people who like audio-listening during workout sessions, heart rate monitoring for your pulse, and built-in cooling fans to keep you fresh as you burn through those calories.
Warranty: Lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, parts and labor have 1 year.
Extra Features: Built-in cooling fans, Bluetooth connectivity so you can sync your device on the T101’s integrated speakers, energy saver mode, device holder, audio input jack, USB charging port, and heart rate monitoring.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 Exercise Treadmill
Overview
Another budget-friendly option out there for you is the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603.
Just like Horizon Fitness, Sunny Health & Fitness is known for its affordable and budget-friendly fitness equipment for the home without making any compromises in terms of quality and craftsmanship on its machines.
And staying true to the brand, the SF-T7603 is no exception. In fact, this particular folding treadmill is another best seller from the Sunny Health & Fitness company as you might see in Amazon.
I’d understand if some of you might be skeptical of this folding treadmill’s quality as it’s being sold for under $500, but Sunny Health & Fitness is a pretty reputable brand too so you know their products are reliable and packed with terrific features.
When it comes to performance, the 2.2 horsepower allows its users for light to moderate jogs and workout sessions. This is usually the standard for more budget-friendly machines. Nevertheless, the overall performance is pretty solid for what it offers.
If you’re looking for a folding treadmill with higher horsepower so you can do more grueling routines, it will cost you.
Other noteworthy features of the SF-T7603 include the soft-drop hydraulic mechanism that allows the folded deck to gently lower itself to the floor and multifunction handrails with pulse sensors that let you change up your speed as well as measure your heart rate.
The SF-T7603 also has a Digital Monitor screen that displays your time, distance, speed, calorie, pulse, and chosen mode and program.
Extra Features: The unit comes with a free belt lubrication oil, a digital monitor to display your stats while working out, handrail controls with pulse sensors, a device holder, and a soft drop mechanism when unfolding your SF-T7603.
Pros
Handrail controls are very ergonomic.
Pretty decent workout programs.
Good for beginners who like light to moderate jogs and workouts.
Cons
Takes a bit of time to assemble in comparison to other folding treadmills that come in pre-assembled or almost pre-assembled.
Low incline capability.
Not meant for more intense runs.
Rating: 8 out of 10
Where Can I Buy The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 Exercise Treadmill?
Coming in at the fifth spot of our best folding treadmills for home use this 2021 list, let’s take a look at the XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill.
A quick information about the company; XTERRA Fitness is a brand that manufactures cardio fitness equipment based in Jonesboro, Arkansas. They produce high quality fitness equipment that can easily be accessed by everyone while helping you achieve your fitness goals in the comfort of your own home.
The TR150 in the XTERRA Fitness line is one of their entry-level models that are more suited for light to moderate runs and exercises such as jogging or fast-paced walking. It’s great for casual fitness enthusiasts and has really impressive user reviews on Amazon.
Upon opening the box, the machine comes in almost pre-assembled with just a few parts you would need to attach. Despite having a lightweight design, it can still easily support a maximum user weight of up to 250 lbs. or 113 kg.
The TR150 also falls in the smaller spectrum of folding treadmills compared to other folding treadmills in the market and is even smaller and more compact when folded (estimated to be around 29″ D x 28.75″ W).
When in use, the machine sits comfortably at 63.4″ (161 cm) long and 28.752 (73 cm) wide, which might not be suitable for people who are taller due to the deck’s size capacity. If you have longer running strides, you might struggle with your comfortability.
Additionally, you also get 12 preset fitness programs with this running machine as well as a manual option that gives you complete control of your fitness routine.
The biggest downside of the XTERRA Fitness TR150 for me is that you have to manually adjust the incline. Preferably, you need to adjust the treadmill before hopping in to start your workout. So if you like a machine that will let you automatically adjust your incline mid-exercise, this isn’t the one for you.
While it does lack a few bells and whistles so it can maintain its budget-friendly price tag, overall it’s still a pretty solid product.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 63.4 x 28.75 x 51.4 inches (LxWxH)
Warranty: Lifetime warranty on the frame, 1 year on the motor, 90 days on the parts, and labor.
Extra Features: Built-in device holder and reading rack, and handgrip pulse sensors.
Pros
Very easy to use and beginner-friendly.
Great for light to moderate workout routines.
Terrific customer support and warranty.
Little to no assembly needed.
The XTRASoft deck cushioning technology on this folding treadmill allows for less impact and stress on your joints.
Cons
Not suitable for more intense workouts.
Manual incline can be an inconvenience for some.
This machine can expose you to chemicals including Toluene and Acrylamide which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Rating: 8 out of 10
Where Can I Buy The XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill?
The Echelon Stride folding treadmill will be your favorite in this list if you’re super tight on space inside your house. But it’s definitely on the pricier end of folding treadmills in our list.
It’s compact and not as chunky as other folding treadmills you might come across in the market. It measures 69 x 31 x 49 inches when unfolded and weighs 156 pounds. You’ll find wheels on the base of this machine for convenient transportation and has a unique auto fold feature for easy storage whether it be in your closet or under your bed.
Don’t be fooled by its modest size though, the Echelon Stride is very sturdy and you won’t experience any rocking or faltering when you’re using it. The 1.75 HP continuous power brushless DC motor in this treadmill allows it to go from 0.5 to 12 miles per hour along with 12 levels of incline that max out at a 10% grade.
The Stride also offers an Echelon United class membership, which costs $39.99 per month, $399 per year, or $599 for two years. Admittedly, that’s really pricey for me but if you can afford it, then I think you should go for it. Especially if you like to be competitive and challenge yourself constantly.
The Echelon United class membership allows you to stream live running and walking classes and even compete with other trainees on leaderboards.
The membership also gives you access to endless classes with professional trainers and a wide range of different workouts to choose from that focus on strength training, HIIT, and so much more.
Despite costing over a thousand dollars, the Echelon Stride offers financing options for people who are on a budget but still want a top-of-the-class foldable treadmill so you won’t have to splurge in one go.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 69.3 x 31 x 49.2 inches (LxWxH)
Running Area: 20 x 55 inches.
Product Weight: 179 lbs. or 81 kg.
Material: Steel
Color: Grey
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 300 lbs. or 136 kg.
Maximum Horsepower: 1.75 horsepower.
Top Speed Rating: 0.5 up to 12 miles per hour.
Incline: 12 levels with a max incline of up to 10%.
Screen: Digital display.
Preset Workouts / Fitness Programs: 8 preset programs but you have the option to subscribe to their Echelon United class membership.
Warranty: 12 months on limited parts and labor warranty as well as a 100% money-back guarantee for the first 30 days.
Extra Features: Bluetooth (Echelon Fit App access), 2 Water Bottle Holders, Smart Phone Holder, Secure Tablet Holder, and Safety Stop Lanyard.
Pros
Wide range of inclination levels.
Impressive warranty coverage.
Great for small spaces due to its unique folding design.
Easy to set up and store.
Can be used for more intense workouts.
The Echelon United class membership offers an endless range of workout classes to choose from that is suitable for your fitness goals.
Cons
On the pricier end of folding treadmills, especially with the added cost of the Echelon United class membership.
Last but not the least in our list of the best folding treadmills for home use this 2021 is the Bowflex T10.
As you can see in the picture, it’s a beast of a machine. It’s a lot chunkier and bigger than the previous units on this list. So if you don’t have a lot of space to spare in your home gym, then this might not be the folding treadmill for you.
In any case, folding treadmills of this size are great because they usually are a lot more durable, meaning they last longer. They can also support heavier individuals with ease and have better warranty coverages on them.
The T10 checks all those boxes. In addition, the Bowflex T10 has a unique feature of both incline and decline training compared to other machines in this list that only have incline options. You can get up to 15% incline or decline down to -5%.
Overall, this feature is very impressive as it really allows you to have a versatile workout routine and pump up your cardio training. Not to mention, the T10 is also equipped with wireless heart rate monitoring that operates via Bluetooth to give you a more accurate measurement. This way you can monitor your progress without any hassle.
Other terrific features of the T10 include the JRNY Experience subscription, an adjustable 10-inch touchscreen display, a large cushioned deck, easy SoftDrop mechanism, pulse handgrips, incline knobs, a media shelf, and so much more.
Features & Specifications
Product Dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 inches (LxWxH)
Running Area: 22″ x 60″
Product Weight: 323 lbs. or 146.5 kg.
Material: Steel
Color: Black
Maximum User Weight Capacity: 400 lbs. or 181.4 kg.
Now that we’ve covered the best folding treadmills for home use this 2021, here are some quick tips you may want to keep in mind before fully investing in these excellent gym equipments.
Workout Space
Before you make any final purchases on your desired folding treadmill, I highly recommend considering the amount of space you have for the machine. This will also give you an idea what size of treadmill you should go for.
While folding treadmills are pretty compact for storing, that’s not the case when they’re in use. They can still acquire a lot of space once unfolded and the last thing we want is to be crammed up in a corner without much space to move.
Treadmill Size
Once you’ve determined how much workout space you have to spare, it will be fairly easy to know which treadmill size is perfect for you. But don’t forget to take into account your own size as well.
Most treadmills can usually accommodate the average person with their maximum weight capacities. But it’s still much better (and I highly recommend it) to check out how much weight a particular folding treadmill can handle.
This will also help avoid any unwanted incidents or issues regarding the size and weight capacity of a certain unit.
Incline
The levels of the incline in your chosen folding treadmill will solely depend on your preference. Some of you might prefer a running machine that has a wide range of inclination levels to choose from to keep your workouts challenging and versatile, while others may not.
I personally prefer the former as well and fortunately, so many manufacturers in the market provide a variety of options for us.
Do keep in mind that some folding treadmills have inclines wherein you can adjust manually or automatically. I would recommend going for the latter as you won’t have to step out of your running machine in case you want to change your incline level mid workout.
Workout Programs
Most folding treadmills have built-in preset programs. Some have more programs to choose from and some have less. More high end brands offer subscription based apps you can sign up in to have access to different live workout classes and even a personal coach to train you.
Treadmills Accessories
This isn’t the most important thing to consider but it is still pretty convenient to have in your treadmill. Not to mention, quite ergonomic too.
Having a water bottle holder is nice so you don’t have to go to the kitchen to get one, a device holder is great so you can put an iPad or your phone to listen to music or even watch some shows to keep you entertained while running. There are more reasons to enumerate but I think you get the idea.
Warranty
Another thing to consider before making any final purchases is the treadmill’s warranty from its manufacturer. Usually, the warranty for a lot of standard folding treadmills are pretty generous. A lot of them even offer lifetime warranties on the frame.
But try not to overlook this factor in case you get a faulty machine or missing parts. One of the worst things we can experience is poor customer support or delayed replacements of faulty machines.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, if you have the budget and enough space to spare in your home, a folding treadmill is pretty much worth the investment. Especially if you really like jogging or running as part of your workout sessions.
A treadmill is just so versatile and we owe it to ourselves to keep our bodies fit and healthy in the best way possible. Especially now that we are currently in a pandemic. Taking care of our health is more important than ever.
Luckily for us, there are so many folding treadmills to choose from in the market right now and I’m sure there’s one you’ll find that will fit your expectations and needs. It’s just a matter of preference and hoping that my list was able to help you figure it out.
Did your favorite folding treadmill for home us make it in our list? Tell me all about your experiences and your suggestions if you have any in the comments section below! I’d love to hear your insights.
