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As we approach our golden years, resisting sedentary behaviors and staying active is a key component of maintaining our quality of life and physical health. (1) For seniors who are either unable to go to the gym (or simply uncomfortable going to one), buying one of the best treadmills for home use can be a convenient way to...
The post 9 Best Treadmills for Seniors of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.
As we approach our golden years, resisting sedentary behaviors and staying active is a key component of maintaining our quality of life and physical health. (1) For seniors who are either unable to go to the gym (or simply uncomfortable going to one), buying one of the best treadmills for home use can be a convenient way to remove some of the hurdles to routine exercise.
When curating this list of the best treadmills for seniors, our team of fitness professionals prioritized models that catered to those dealing with joint pain, living on tight budgets, or occupying smaller spaces. We tested more than 40 different treadmills, rating each model on a number of important factors, to ensure each profile on this list can satisfy the wants and needs of senior athletes. Here are our picks for the best treadmills for seniors.
9 Best Treadmills for Seniors of 2024
About Our Expert:
This article has been reviewed by Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, a NASM-certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member. She reviewed the research we cite and the treadmills we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested several of the treadmills herself.
How We Tested the Best Treadmills for Seniors
Our team of certified personal trainers, weightlifting coaches, and nutrition experts have sprinted on more than 40 different treadmills, putting each one through a rigorous testing process. We assigned ratings on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in 13 categories, which include factors such as footprint and portability, durability, adjustability, ergonomics, and customizations.
When selecting the best treadmills for seniors, we eschewed models designed for high-intensity intervals and focused more on factors such as comfort and accessibility. The majority of seniors, after all, aren’t looking for a treadmill to help them improve their marathon time, but one that can help them stay active with brisk walks and jogs. If you’re tired of reading Amazon reviews and are looking for expert-tested machines, our list of the best treadmills for seniors should prove helpful.
Overall Best Treadmill for Seniors: Sole F63
Sole F63 Treadmill
Sole F63 Treadmill
The Sole F63 is a high-quality, no-frills treadmill. The 3.0 HP motor can support up to 325 pounds, and the foldability is ideal for those tight on space.
Shop SOLE
Specs
Pros
Cons
Our best overall treadmill for seniors — the Sole F63 — comes loaded with features to accommodate seniors. The cushioned 20-inch wide by 60-inch long belt deck is at the higher end of the average and its two-ply belt adds an additional layer of support for those with tender joints. We also like that its 325-pound weight capacity is 25 pounds higher than that we saw on many of the treadmills we tested.
Sole claims its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck reduces impact by up to 40 percent and, while that exact number is tough to validate, we definitely noticed the shock absorbers easing the impact as we walked, ran, and jogged. Coupled with the two-ply belt, this design aims to provide a much more comfortable experience running on a treadmill than what you’ll find outdoors.
Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial staffer, used the F63 for multiple walking and running workouts. She rated its adjustability and ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5, specifically calling out the belt. “We had testers up to 6-feet tall try it out and the deck was spacious enough for all of them,” she pointed out. “While cheaper machines use a one-ply belt, the F63’s is two-ply — a nice upgrade.”
Our BarBend product tester walking on the Sole F63.
She did note she felt a bit of a wobble at the highest incline and speed, though this likely won’t affect elderly users in search of low-to-moderate exercise. But the wobble did bring the F63’s durability score down to a 3 out of 5.
Meier rated the F63’s footprint and portability 5 out of 5, noting that it could easily be folded up for those in small spaces. “Because it’s only 156 pounds — more lightweight than the average treadmill — it could easily be tucked away,” she said.
Despite its smaller overall size, the step-up height — the height from the floor to the deck — is 8 inches. Compared to smaller machines like the XTERRA TR150, this is 3.5 inches higher, which may be a consideration for some seniors.
The tech capabilities earned a 4.3 out of 5 from Meier, who noted the Bluetooth connectivity and USB charging port. However, although there are seven preset workouts ready to go, you won’t find interactive programming — like iFIT or Peloton — like you would on the best treadmills with screens.
Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.
Best Treadmill for Heavier Seniors: Horizon 7.4 AT
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill is ideal for anyone who likes to stream fitness classes throughout their workout. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity for streaming, this tread also features 3-zone variable response cushioning and feather-light folding to make storing this treadmill seamless.
Shop Horizon
Specs
Pros
Cons
We picked the Horizon 7.4 AT as the best treadmill for heavier seniors because of its 350-pound weight capacity, which is 50 pounds higher than average. Anyone working around knee discomfort will appreciate Horizon’s Three-Zone Variable Cushioning, which provides shock absorption to help ease the impact on the runner’s joints during sessions. Our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — rated its durability a 4.5 out of 5. “The 350-pound weight capacity is a good indication that this machine will last a long time.”
Three-Zone Variable Cushioning is a unique system that responds to impact differently in three areas of the deck. It’s more flexible in the front of the belt, neutral in the middle, and firmer in the back to provide reinforcement as you push off for your next stride. “I truly felt a difference in the cushioning compared to other treadmills,” our tester noted.
Unfolding the Horizon 7.4 AT.
At 60 inches long and 22 inches wide, the belt is two inches wider than the average treadmill. “The 7.4 AT is big, so I wouldn’t recommend it for small spaces,” said our tester. “Its size, though, is what allows for its wider belt and higher weight capacity.” Its footprint and portability earned a 3.5 out of 5 score, but the size of the machine may be a benefit for some.
Its 8.75-inch step-up height is on the higher end of the 7- to 9-inch average, so you may want to test out how high is too high for you before committing to this treadmill.
Our tester scored the delivery and set up a 4.5 out of 5, but pointed out, “Setting it up was pretty straightforward, but it took me more than an hour.”
Read our full Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Review.
Best Cushioned Treadmill for Seniors: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 is one of the most high-tech treadmills on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen display that can tilt to your comfort level, and rotate 360 degrees. Your purchase includes a free month of iFit, and all of your trainer-led classes offer automatic adjustments to the incline, decline, and speed settings.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
Pros
Cons
If you’re concerned about how exercising on a treadmill may affect your joints, we think our pick for the best cushioned treadmill for seniors is a good option. The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 has soft deck cushioning, which our tester, a CrossFit trainer, described as making them feel like “I was bouncing on a cloud instead of pounding the pavement.” The feel was akin to running on turf or grass — just the right amount of bounce.
Noting the cushioning and 60-inch by 20-inch belt deck, our tester rated the 2450’s adjustability and ergonomics a 5 out of 5. “I have had ankle issues in the past,” they said, “so the extra cushioning on the 2450 was a huge plus for me.” Most treadmills have a running surface between 55 and 60 inches long, so this cushioned deck is at the top of that range.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Streamers Paradise? — NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Review (2023) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXI)
Under the hood, the NordicTrack 2450 packs a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor capable of reaching a max speed of 12 miles per hour. “The motor is ideal for any type of workout — walking, jogging, even serious running,” our tester pointed out. “This treadmill felt extremely stable, start to finish.” They rated their workout experience a 4 out of 5.
Its footprint and portability earned a 3 out of 5 rating from our tester. We like its hydraulic folding mechanism, but, at 286 pounds and 78.5 inches long, it can be difficult to move and store. “The wheels make it semi-easy to move around a room,” they said, “but you definitely want help getting it in the house or up the stairs.”
Our product tester walking on the NordicTrack Commercial 2450’s cushioned deck.
NordicTrack treadmills also feature iFIT integration. iFIT is an app you can access via the 2450’s 22-inch touchscreen that comes with thousands of on-demand classes that encompass a number of modalities and skill levels. Access to iFIT, however, costs an additional $39.99 per month after your 30-day free trial.
Read our full NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Review.
Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors: ProForm Pro 9000
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.
Shop ProForm
Specs
Pros
Cons
Seniors looking for a treadmill for walking may want to consider two features: the incline range and available preset programs. Having a steep incline can allow you to add a bit of a challenge to your walking workouts, while following pre-programmed workouts can provide variety and structure.
Many treadmills have some kind of incline, but a decline capability is fairly uncommon. “It is pretty rare to see a treadmill with decline,” Kate Meier — a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member — pointed out. She rated its adjustability and ergonomics 5 out of 5, and added, “It was also easy to adjust the incline and decline during use — just tap the arrows right under the screen.”
With over 50 built-in workouts available via the console, you can simply pick one and start moving. However, the ProForm Pro 9000 is also one of the best treadmills with iFIT that we have tested. “The iFIT integration — even though a subscription is $39.99 per month — gives you access to over 16,000 live and on-demand workouts,” Meier said. Those workouts include studio classes and scenic walks through areas like ancient Egypt and Patagonia.
Our BarBend product tester walking on the ProForm Pro 9000.
In addition to incline and preset workouts, the ProForm Pro 9000 stands out for its ReBound Pro cushioning system. ProForm describes it as their most advanced system to date, with patented shock absorbers to take stress off your lower-body joints. In general, solid deck cushioning can lead to longer workouts and faster recovery.
Meier rated its durability 5 out of 5 because of the 300-pound weight capacity, 3.6 CHP motor, and cushioned deck. “I felt like it was steady even at...
Click here to view the article.
The post 9 Best Treadmills for Seniors of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.
As we approach our golden years, resisting sedentary behaviors and staying active is a key component of maintaining our quality of life and physical health. (1) For seniors who are either unable to go to the gym (or simply uncomfortable going to one), buying one of the best treadmills for home use can be a convenient way to remove some of the hurdles to routine exercise.
When curating this list of the best treadmills for seniors, our team of fitness professionals prioritized models that catered to those dealing with joint pain, living on tight budgets, or occupying smaller spaces. We tested more than 40 different treadmills, rating each model on a number of important factors, to ensure each profile on this list can satisfy the wants and needs of senior athletes. Here are our picks for the best treadmills for seniors.
9 Best Treadmills for Seniors of 2024
- Overall Best Treadmill for Seniors: Sole F63
- Best Treadmill for Heavier Seniors: Horizon 7.4 AT
- Best Cushioned Treadmill for Seniors: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
- Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors: ProForm 9000
- Best Manual Treadmill for Seniors: AssaultRunner Pro
- Best Folding Treadmill for Seniors: Echelon Stride-6
- Best Budget Treadmill for Seniors: XTERRA Fitness TR150
- Best Treadmill for Seniors with a Simple Display: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400
- Best Treadmill for Seniors with Programming: Bowflex Treadmill 10
About Our Expert:
This article has been reviewed by Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, a NASM-certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member. She reviewed the research we cite and the treadmills we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested several of the treadmills herself.
How We Tested the Best Treadmills for Seniors
Our team of certified personal trainers, weightlifting coaches, and nutrition experts have sprinted on more than 40 different treadmills, putting each one through a rigorous testing process. We assigned ratings on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in 13 categories, which include factors such as footprint and portability, durability, adjustability, ergonomics, and customizations.
When selecting the best treadmills for seniors, we eschewed models designed for high-intensity intervals and focused more on factors such as comfort and accessibility. The majority of seniors, after all, aren’t looking for a treadmill to help them improve their marathon time, but one that can help them stay active with brisk walks and jogs. If you’re tired of reading Amazon reviews and are looking for expert-tested machines, our list of the best treadmills for seniors should prove helpful.
Overall Best Treadmill for Seniors: Sole F63
Sole F63 Treadmill
Sole F63 Treadmill
The Sole F63 is a high-quality, no-frills treadmill. The 3.0 HP motor can support up to 325 pounds, and the foldability is ideal for those tight on space.
Shop SOLE
Specs
- Price: $1,199
- Step-Up Height: 8”
- Incline Range: 0%-15%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 325lbs
- Dimensions: 67? H x 77? L x 35? W
- Weight: 224lbs
Pros
- With a large 20- by 60-inch belt deck, you have plenty of space to walk or run without fear of losing your balance or falling off the treadmill.
- The 3.0 continuous horsepower motor provides a smooth and quiet experience.
- Its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck can reduce the impact on your joints during use.
Cons
- An 8-inch step-up height may be too high for some seniors, even with the handrails for support.
- There are seven pre-programmed workouts built-in, but it lacks interactive programming like iFIT.
Our best overall treadmill for seniors — the Sole F63 — comes loaded with features to accommodate seniors. The cushioned 20-inch wide by 60-inch long belt deck is at the higher end of the average and its two-ply belt adds an additional layer of support for those with tender joints. We also like that its 325-pound weight capacity is 25 pounds higher than that we saw on many of the treadmills we tested.
Sole claims its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck reduces impact by up to 40 percent and, while that exact number is tough to validate, we definitely noticed the shock absorbers easing the impact as we walked, ran, and jogged. Coupled with the two-ply belt, this design aims to provide a much more comfortable experience running on a treadmill than what you’ll find outdoors.
Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial staffer, used the F63 for multiple walking and running workouts. She rated its adjustability and ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5, specifically calling out the belt. “We had testers up to 6-feet tall try it out and the deck was spacious enough for all of them,” she pointed out. “While cheaper machines use a one-ply belt, the F63’s is two-ply — a nice upgrade.”
She did note she felt a bit of a wobble at the highest incline and speed, though this likely won’t affect elderly users in search of low-to-moderate exercise. But the wobble did bring the F63’s durability score down to a 3 out of 5.
Meier rated the F63’s footprint and portability 5 out of 5, noting that it could easily be folded up for those in small spaces. “Because it’s only 156 pounds — more lightweight than the average treadmill — it could easily be tucked away,” she said.
Despite its smaller overall size, the step-up height — the height from the floor to the deck — is 8 inches. Compared to smaller machines like the XTERRA TR150, this is 3.5 inches higher, which may be a consideration for some seniors.
The tech capabilities earned a 4.3 out of 5 from Meier, who noted the Bluetooth connectivity and USB charging port. However, although there are seven preset workouts ready to go, you won’t find interactive programming — like iFIT or Peloton — like you would on the best treadmills with screens.
Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.
Best Treadmill for Heavier Seniors: Horizon 7.4 AT
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill is ideal for anyone who likes to stream fitness classes throughout their workout. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity for streaming, this tread also features 3-zone variable response cushioning and feather-light folding to make storing this treadmill seamless.
Shop Horizon
Specs
- Price: $2,399
- Step-Up Height: 8.75”
- Incline Range: 0%-12%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 350lbs
- Dimensions: 67? H x 77? L x 35? W
- Weight: 318lbs
Pros
- The 350-pound weight capacity is 50 pounds higher than the industry standard.
- Horizon’s Three-Zone Variable Response cushioning system provides shock absorption, even at higher speeds.
- Its 22-by-60-inch belt deck is two inches wider than the average treadmill.
Cons
- At 318 pounds, this treadmill can be difficult to assemble and maneuver.
- The 8.75-inch step-up height may be slightly high for some seniors.
- Its large footprint is not designed for small spaces or frequent relocation.
We picked the Horizon 7.4 AT as the best treadmill for heavier seniors because of its 350-pound weight capacity, which is 50 pounds higher than average. Anyone working around knee discomfort will appreciate Horizon’s Three-Zone Variable Cushioning, which provides shock absorption to help ease the impact on the runner’s joints during sessions. Our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — rated its durability a 4.5 out of 5. “The 350-pound weight capacity is a good indication that this machine will last a long time.”
Three-Zone Variable Cushioning is a unique system that responds to impact differently in three areas of the deck. It’s more flexible in the front of the belt, neutral in the middle, and firmer in the back to provide reinforcement as you push off for your next stride. “I truly felt a difference in the cushioning compared to other treadmills,” our tester noted.
At 60 inches long and 22 inches wide, the belt is two inches wider than the average treadmill. “The 7.4 AT is big, so I wouldn’t recommend it for small spaces,” said our tester. “Its size, though, is what allows for its wider belt and higher weight capacity.” Its footprint and portability earned a 3.5 out of 5 score, but the size of the machine may be a benefit for some.
Its 8.75-inch step-up height is on the higher end of the 7- to 9-inch average, so you may want to test out how high is too high for you before committing to this treadmill.
Our tester scored the delivery and set up a 4.5 out of 5, but pointed out, “Setting it up was pretty straightforward, but it took me more than an hour.”
Read our full Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Review.
Best Cushioned Treadmill for Seniors: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 is one of the most high-tech treadmills on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen display that can tilt to your comfort level, and rotate 360 degrees. Your purchase includes a free month of iFit, and all of your trainer-led classes offer automatic adjustments to the incline, decline, and speed settings.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
- Price: $2,999
- Step-Up Height: Not disclosed
- Incline Range: -3%-12%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Dimensions: 65? H x 78.5? L x 35.6? W
- Weight: 286lbs
Pros
- Those with knee or ankle issues will appreciate the springy deck cushioning for added comfort and joint support.
- A 20-inch wide and 60-inch long belt deck allows plenty of space for comfortable workouts.
- With a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor, you can expect a smooth and quiet walk, jog, or run.
Cons
- Even for a foldable treadmill, its large footprint and heavy weight may make it difficult to move and store.
- At $2,999, the price may be a bit too steep for some.
- If you plan to use iFIT for integrated workouts, you’ll have to pay $39.99 per month after the included free 30-day trial.
If you’re concerned about how exercising on a treadmill may affect your joints, we think our pick for the best cushioned treadmill for seniors is a good option. The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 has soft deck cushioning, which our tester, a CrossFit trainer, described as making them feel like “I was bouncing on a cloud instead of pounding the pavement.” The feel was akin to running on turf or grass — just the right amount of bounce.
Noting the cushioning and 60-inch by 20-inch belt deck, our tester rated the 2450’s adjustability and ergonomics a 5 out of 5. “I have had ankle issues in the past,” they said, “so the extra cushioning on the 2450 was a huge plus for me.” Most treadmills have a running surface between 55 and 60 inches long, so this cushioned deck is at the top of that range.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Streamers Paradise? — NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Review (2023) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXI)
Under the hood, the NordicTrack 2450 packs a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor capable of reaching a max speed of 12 miles per hour. “The motor is ideal for any type of workout — walking, jogging, even serious running,” our tester pointed out. “This treadmill felt extremely stable, start to finish.” They rated their workout experience a 4 out of 5.
Its footprint and portability earned a 3 out of 5 rating from our tester. We like its hydraulic folding mechanism, but, at 286 pounds and 78.5 inches long, it can be difficult to move and store. “The wheels make it semi-easy to move around a room,” they said, “but you definitely want help getting it in the house or up the stairs.”
NordicTrack treadmills also feature iFIT integration. iFIT is an app you can access via the 2450’s 22-inch touchscreen that comes with thousands of on-demand classes that encompass a number of modalities and skill levels. Access to iFIT, however, costs an additional $39.99 per month after your 30-day free trial.
Read our full NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Review.
Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors: ProForm Pro 9000
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.
Shop ProForm
Specs
- Price: $2,299
- Step-Up Height: 9”
- Incline Range: -3%-12%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Dimensions: 59.6? H x 77.3? L x 35.3? W
- Weight: 251lbs
Pros
- The -3%-12% incline range can provide variety and an additional challenge to your walking workouts.
- You’ll find 50 pre-programmed workouts in addition to the interactive options available with an iFIT subscription.
- It features ProForm’s ReBound Pro Cushioning, a 3.6 CHP motor, and quick-speed controls for speed and incline.
Cons
- This treadmill weighs 251 pounds, so it can be difficult for one person to move.
- Its 9-inch step-up height is at the top of the average range — 7 to 9 inches — so it may be too high for some seniors.
- After your initial free 30-day trial of iFIT, a subscription is $39.99 per month.
Seniors looking for a treadmill for walking may want to consider two features: the incline range and available preset programs. Having a steep incline can allow you to add a bit of a challenge to your walking workouts, while following pre-programmed workouts can provide variety and structure.
Many treadmills have some kind of incline, but a decline capability is fairly uncommon. “It is pretty rare to see a treadmill with decline,” Kate Meier — a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member — pointed out. She rated its adjustability and ergonomics 5 out of 5, and added, “It was also easy to adjust the incline and decline during use — just tap the arrows right under the screen.”
With over 50 built-in workouts available via the console, you can simply pick one and start moving. However, the ProForm Pro 9000 is also one of the best treadmills with iFIT that we have tested. “The iFIT integration — even though a subscription is $39.99 per month — gives you access to over 16,000 live and on-demand workouts,” Meier said. Those workouts include studio classes and scenic walks through areas like ancient Egypt and Patagonia.
In addition to incline and preset workouts, the ProForm Pro 9000 stands out for its ReBound Pro cushioning system. ProForm describes it as their most advanced system to date, with patented shock absorbers to take stress off your lower-body joints. In general, solid deck cushioning can lead to longer workouts and faster recovery.
Meier rated its durability 5 out of 5 because of the 300-pound weight capacity, 3.6 CHP motor, and cushioned deck. “I felt like it was steady even at...
Click here to view the article.
