What’s the Best Treadmill Under (or close to!) £500? Budget Treadmill Review

Today we’re on the hunt for the very best treadmill under £500 on the market in 2025.

This (UK) guide will look at things like build quality, feature set and a ton of other important criteria and find the best machine your money can buy for this price point. There are some fantastic running machines available at this price bracket so sit back and enjoy the guide!

1RHYTHM FUN Foldable Treadmill

Best Overall

"Compact, user-friendly treadmill with a wide belt, ideal for home workouts and supporting up to 136kg."

1. Maximum speed: 10.8 km/h
2. Incline(%): Not available
3. Running Track Size in cm: 106 cm x 40 cm
4. Max user weight inkg: 136kg

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Amazon UK

2DeerRun Treadmill

Runner Up

"Well-built treadmill with easy controls and smooth operation, ideal for home workouts."

1. Maximum speed: km/h: 16 km/h
2. Incline(%): 6%
3. Running Track Size in cm: 112x42 cm
4. Max user weight inkg: 158kg

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Amazon UK

3FK Sports Foldable Treadmill

"Compact and foldable design for easy storage, with user-friendly touch display and customizable workout programs."

1. Maximum speed: 14 km/h
2. Incline(%): Manual Incline
3. Running Track Size in cm: 126 cm x 46 cm
4. Max user weight inkg: 130kg

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Amazon UK

4Under Desk Treadmill

"Portable treadmill ideal for home or office, promotes active lifestyle while working, with quiet operation."

1. Running Track Size in cm: 121.01 cm x 48.51 cm
2. Max user weight inkg: 120.2kg

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Amazon UK

5CURSOR FITNESS 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill

"Compact and efficient for home use with ultra-quiet operation and easy storage."

1. Maximum speed: km/h: 11.27 km/h
2. Max user weight inkg: 120.2kg

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Amazon UK

6RHYTHM FUN Foldable Treadmill

"Quiet, compact treadmill with foldable design and real-time tracking for convenient home use."

1. Maximum speed: km/h: 10.8 km/h
2. Incline(%): 0%
3. Max user weight inkg: 136kg

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Amazon UK

7SMUG Compact Armless Treadmill

"Compact design, quiet motor, easy operation with remote control, ideal for small spaces."

1. Maximum speed: 5.6 km/h
2. Running Track Size in cm: 115 cm x 49 cm
3. Max user weight inkg: 120kg

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Amazon UK

8GLOBAL RELAX®

"Quiet and sturdy treadmill with an efficient shock-absorbing design and compact foldable structure for easy storage."

1. Maximum speed: km/h: 12 km/h
2. Incline(%): Auto Incline
3. Max user weight inkg: 25.68kg (converted from 56.5 lbs)

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Amazon UK

92-in-1 Home Folding Treadmill

"Space-saving, quiet treadmill with - decent quality and easy setup."

1. Maximum speed: 16 km/h
2. Running Track Size in cm: 104 x 42 cm
3. Max user weight inkg: 130kg

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Amazon UK

What we look for when reviewing treadmills

What can you expect to get for your money in the £500 (ish) range?

Having previously reviewed and rated the top treadmills under £200, it was great to be given a higher budget of £500 for our next round of testing. Stepping up to this mid-budget price range gets you a lot more in terms of quality, stability and features.

Things we’re looking at in this price range:

1. Build quality – For around the £500 mark, any compromises in materials and quality should be gone. No wobbling, thin tube construction, shoddy joints or instability.
2. Running track – At the £500 price range, we looked for a good quality running track, at a proper size, where the belt can dish out and take some serious punishment. The £500-ish bracket takes our ideal machine into the market of serious runners, as well as casual runners and walkers.
3. Size – There are some shall we say ‘compact’ treadmills on the market. In this guide, we want something serious – a real sturdy, good-sized treadmill, with plenty of space to stretch our legs.
4. Upper speed – We’re looking for a treadmill with a reasonable upper-speed limit – 12km/h ideally.
5. Folding goodness – Although many people won’t be storing their treadmills at this price range, the majority of treadmills we review do still ‘flip up’ – at least provide a bit of space in your gym for other things. We looked at how easy each treadmill was to fold up and store.
6. Incline – Pushing into the mid-tier treadmills, we expected to find machines with some form of adjustable incline – automatic if possible, but we’ll take manual too. Remember that setting your treadmill to even a 1% or 2% incline will simulate the experience and workload of running outdoors.
7. Console and display – One thing cheaper treadmills suffer from is very shoddy quality displays. At this price point, we looked more closely, with a less-forgiving eye, at the quality of the LCD display. We looked into the info on display, the amount of info on screen at a time and exactly what was being tracked.

So, what are the best treadmills up to £500?

For this respectable budget, expect a really good machine that will be a trusty training partner and last a long time. Here are the treadmills we found were actually worth the money, starting with the top pick first.

Top Pick

RHYTHM FUN Foldable Treadmill

Best for space-saving and easy mobility

Sturdy and portable treadmill for home use, offering excellent support for people up to 136kg. Easy to store and operate, it’s perfect for compact spaces.

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What we liked:

The RHYTHM FUN SL-C5 treadmill stands out for several reasons. First, its 2.5 HP motor offers enough power for walking, jogging and running. This treadmill can handle up to 136kg, making it suitable for a wide range of users. I particularly appreciated the five-layer non-slip running belt that provides excellent knee cushioning, which is great if you have joint issues. The wide belt, nearly 16 inches, is ideal for people with a wider stance.

Another feature I like is the ease of storage. It folds up in two easy steps, which is a huge plus in smaller spaces. Users can also connect via Bluetooth to sync with their favorite fitness apps, a feature that enhances the user experience. No assembly is required and the treadmill even comes with a remote control for speed adjustments.

What we didn't like:

While the RHYTHM FUN treadmill offers many benefits, it's not without its shortcomings. One thing missing is a pause function. Users noted they have to either stop or go, which can be inconvenient. Also, although generally quiet, there is some squeaking that may require occasional lubrication. It’s worth mentioning that the treadmill could benefit from a more stable base. Users recommended using pads to prevent it from moving on certain flooring. These minor issues don’t outweigh the overall positive experience but are worth noting for potential buyers.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

Compared to other treadmills, the RHYTHM FUN SL-C5 offers a solid balance of features and usability. Its compact design and portability give it an edge over bulkier models. Most treadmills in this range require assembly, unlike this one.

It also matches well with other models in terms of speed and capacity, even exceeding expectations by going up to 10 mph. The design's space-saving quality and ease of movement around the home make it a great choice for those who need flexibility. While some treadmills might offer more features, the RHYTHM FUN shines with its simplicity and user-friendly operation.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The RHYTHM FUN SL-C5 treadmill is ideal for anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use machine for home or office use. It's especially good for those with space constraints. Its features and simplicity offer excellent value for those new to treadmills or those looking for a straightforward exercise option.

Runner up

DeerRun Treadmill

Ideal treadmill for quiet, focused workouts

Durable and reliable for fitness users, the DeerRun Treadmill DR-1000 offers smooth operation, integration with wearable devices and AI coaching, making it perfect for home workouts.

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What we liked:

The DeerRun Treadmill DR-1000 offers impressive features for home workouts. First, the 3.5 HP motor with a power output of 2573W provides a smooth speed range from 1-16 km/h. It can handle a weight capacity of up to 71.7kg, making it suitable for various users. This treadmill's design is compact and folds neatly into corners. It's quiet, producing less than 55 dB of noise. This is perfect for indoor use without disturbing others.

A significant highlight is the treadmill’s compatibility with intelligent wearables and its dedicated app, offering professional AI training, diverse courses and even a global running community. You can also enjoy a 6% incline feature that simulates an uphill run, enhancing workout efficiency. The delivery was prompt, directly to the door and the product dimensions (138D x 61W x 20H cm) ensure it fits nicely in most spaces. Reviews from users have been overwhelmingly positive about its build quality, ease of use and convenience.

What we didn't like:

While the treadmill excels in many areas, some users found it required assembly on arrival, contrary to one reviewer's experience. A few people might wish for an even higher incline level to push their workouts further. Some users could also find the app features a bit overwhelming if they prefer simpler interfaces. Additionally, there are limited color choices, only available in Black and Silver. Nevertheless, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of an effective and well-priced treadmill.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

Compared to other treadmills, the DeerRun DR-1000 stands out with its social fitness features and integration with smart devices. This isn't common in similarly priced models. The 16 km/h max speed and 6% incline are competitive for its class. Its quiet operation is a significant advantage over many noisier models in the market. The build quality and motor performance are on par with high-end alternatives, but its price is more accessible, offering great value. The additional AI training and online races are unique extras that add to its appeal for tech-savvy fitness users.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

This machine DR-1000 is a great choice for those needing a reliable and tech-friendly treadmill for home use. With its quiet operation, robust motor and smart features, it suits users looking for a comprehensive workout experience without breaking the bank. It's worth considering for tech users and beginners alike.

Pros

• No assembly required, ready to use out of the box.
• Folds easily to fit into compact spaces like corners.
• Quiet operation at less than 55 dB, ideal for home use.
• Compatible with smart devices for enhanced workout experience.
• Offers professional AI coaching via an app for guided workouts.

Cons

• con here: Limited incline range, only up to 6%.
• con here: Requires a power source, not cordless.
• con here: Might not suit advanced users looking for varied terrain simulation.

FK Sports Foldable Treadmill

Space-efficient design with user-friendly features

Reliable and compact with a 2.5HP motor, ideal for home workouts. Great for people looking for customizable and smooth exercising options.

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What we liked:

The FK Sports Foldable Treadmill comes packed with features that make it a standout in its category. First off, its 2.5HP motor offers ample power for speeds up to 14 km/h. This is great for walking, jogging and running. This treadmill has 12 workout programs, giving plenty of workout options. I love that there’s no assembly required. The touch display and Bluetooth connectivity make it easy to track progress and stay motivated.

Plus, it syncs with apps like KINOMAP and ZWIFT. The manual incline adds a bit of challenge should you want it. Its foldable design is perfect for saving space, helping it fit into tight areas. The advanced shock absorption provides a smooth and comfortable workout experience.

What we didn't like:

Despite many positives, it’s not without flaws. The lack of automated incline adjustment might be a bummer for some. The dimensions are compact, which can be limiting for taller or larger users. There’s also a question mark over how well it supports running, as some users haven’t tested it for that. These are things to consider. The warranty is only 12 months, which feels short for a treadmill.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

It’s lighter and has a lower noise level than some bulkier models. This is a huge plus for home use. Noise is kept below 60 decibels, making it quieter than many alternatives. Its app compatibility is advanced, especially for its size. Most treadmills at this level don’t offer Bluetooth and app control, giving this one an edge.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

This treadmill is perfect for everyday users looking for a compact yet feature-rich machine. It’s fantastic for walking and light jogging, thanks to its speed and shock absorption. If space is tight, this foldable option could be just the thing. Just remember, it may not suit serious runners.

Under Desk Treadmill

Portable design ideal for under-desk use

Compact and ideal for home or office use, the Under Desk Treadmill, Model: Walking Pad, enhances health by encouraging movement while working.

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What we liked:

This Walking Pad by LUBBYGIM shines with its versatility for both home and office use. Its compact design is ideal for anyone looking to walk while working and effectively promotes a healthier lifestyle. This treadmill is surprisingly quiet, making it perfect for indoor use without disturbing others. No assembly is required, so you can start using it straight out of the box.

Plus, the LED display clearly shows distance, time, speed and calories burned, which is a helpful feature for tracking your progress. A remote control is included for ease of use. With a weight capacity of 120kg, it caters to a broad range of users. Overall, the benefits and features make it a worthwhile investment for most.

What we didn't like:

A few things could be improved. Despite the easy setup and use, the Walking Pad's weight of 26kg is heavier than some might expect. This makes it less portable for some users. Additionally, a customer reported a squeaky sound during use, which might annoy some, especially on carpeted floors. Even though it has high ratings, these small issues are worth noting.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

In comparison to other Under Desk Treadmills, this Walking Pad stands out for its quiet operation and no assembly requirement. While many models have similar features, the LUBBYGIM brand excels in ease of use. The LED display and remote control make this model more user-friendly. However, some treadmills offer a higher weight capacity, which could be a deciding factor for some users.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

For anyone wanting to incorporate movement into their workday, the Walking Pad by LUBBYGIM is a smart choice. Its quiet, compact and easy-to-use design makes it suitable for home or office use. It's a solid buy for those looking for more activity during the day.

CURSOR FITNESS 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill

Best for compact spaces and quiet workouts.

Perfect for adults, the CURSOR FITNESS Treadmill 2-in-1 is compact, quiet and easy to store. Ideal for those looking for a convenient home exercise solution.

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What we liked:

The CURSOR FITNESS Treadmill 2-in-1 is a solid choice for those wanting to walk while working. Its foldable walking pad design is a huge plus, as it fits well under a desk. Users appreciate the ultra-quiet brushless motor, which operates between 40-65 dB, keeping noise levels low and maintaining efficiency. What really stands out is the triple shock absorption system.

With five anti-slip belt layers, six silicone shock absorbers and two rubber pads, walking on it feels smooth and secure. This treadmill is easy to use with a simple plug-and-play setup and a remote for quick control. The three-screen display neatly shows all workout metrics at once, making it user-friendly. Plus, a 5-year warranty on the frame and parts gives extra peace of mind.

What we didn't like:

Despite its benefits, some users reported issues. One significant downside is the short power cord. This can be inconvenient unless you're close to an outlet. Additionally, a negative review mentioned the treadmill breaking quickly. While many found it well-built, this concern shouldn't be ignored. For those planning to run, this isn't the treadmill as it's designed more for walking.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

In comparison to other under-desk treadmills, this one offers a good mix of features and convenience. Its folding design and quiet operation are standout features in its category. Some alternatives might have longer cords or support running, but the CURSOR is excellent for office use. However, if you're looking for a treadmill for intense workouts, consider different models.

The CURSOR fitnessTreadmill 2-in-1 is ideal for adults looking for a compact and quiet treadmill for walking at work or home. Its quiet motor and easy setup make it a great choice. Though it's not designed for running, consider it if you want a simple way to stay active while working.

Pros

• Ultra-quiet operation: The brushless motor emits only 40-65 dB, making it suitable for quiet environments.
• Compact design: Fits easily under a desk and can be stored effortlessly, saving space.
• Remote control: Allows for convenient speed adjustments and quick start/stop during workouts.
• Triple shock absorption: Features multiple layers for reduced impact and comfortable walking.
• Long warranty: Comes with a 5-year frame structure warranty, ensuring peace of mind.

Cons

• Short power cord: Users report the power cord length as being inconveniently short.
• Limited running capacity: Treadmill is more suited for walking, not ideal for intense running.

RHYTHM FUN Foldable Treadmill

Compact and foldable for small spaces

Easy to store and quiet, this treadmill is perfect for adults looking for a home exercise option on a budget with minimal setup.

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What we liked:

I really appreciate how compact the RHYTHM FUN Treadmill is. Weighing just 23.6kg and made of durable alloy steel, it's easy to move and store. Its folding design saves space, which is a major plus for my small apartment. The fact that it arrives fully assembled is a time-saver.

With a 2.5 HP motor, it’s great for walking and jogging. This treadmill is quiet, making it suitable for home or office use. It reaches a maximum speed of 10.8 km/h, which is impressive for its size. The 5-layer non-slip running belt enhances safety and the LED display keeps track of all the metrics I need to monitor my progress. I also like the Ypoofit app connectivity via Bluetooth, which adds a modern touch.

What we didn't like:

Some users noted that while the treadmill is generally quiet, it can get squeaky. The lack of incline options might disappoint those looking for more challenging workouts. Adjusting the track might require effort since the bolts can be tight. Also, it might not suit heavy runners because it is primarily designed for walking and jogging.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

Compared to other compact treadmills, this one offers good features for its category. Though it lacks incline adjustments, the treadmill compensates with its easy setup and portability. Other models may offer more speed or features, but they tend to require more space and assembly effort.

The RHYTHM FUN Treadmill 2.5HP is perfect for adults looking for a convenient and portable exercise option. Its compact design and effective performance make it a worthwhile buy for walking and jogging users who value ease of use and storage.

Pros

• Wide running belt: Offers a 5-layer non-slip design for added safety during workouts.
• Real-time monitoring: Tracks time, speed, distance and calories burned to enhance workout efficiency.
• Powerful motor: The 2.5 HP motor is suitable for both walking and light jogging.
• Fully assembled: Arrives ready to use with no assembly required, saving you time and hassle.
• Quiet operation: Low noise level makes it suitable for home or office environments.

Cons

• No incline feature: Lacks an incline adjustment, limiting workout variation.
• Limited maximum speed: Top speed of 10.8 km/h may not be suitable for serious runners.
• Track size unspecified: Running track dimensions are not provided, which could be a consideration for taller users.

SMUG Compact Armless Treadmill

Quiet treadmill perfect for small spaces

Sleek and portable treadmill ideal for people with limited space. Offers a whisper-quiet exercise option for home or office. Worth buying for its space-saving design and easy operation.

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What we liked:

The SMUG Compact Armless Treadmill is impressive for anyone living in tight spaces. Its slim design, measuring 115 cm in length and a mere 12 cm in height, makes it an excellent fit for small homes or offices where space is at a premium. What really stands out is the quiet motor. You can walk or jog without worrying about disturbing others. This treadmill offers a maximum speed of 3.5 mph, sufficient for walking or light jogging.

The remote control is a convenient feature, letting you adjust settings easily. Plus, the LED display that tracks time, speed, distance and calories keeps you informed. Made from sturdy alloy steel, it supports up to 120kg and has a slip-resistant running belt for safety.

What we didn't like:

While the treadmill has many positives, some users found the remote control problematic. Even with a fresh battery, it sometimes fails to work properly. Additionally, it's not the sturdiest treadmill for more intense activities. Users noted some shaking, which makes it feel somewhat flimsy. Improvements in sturdiness and remote function could significantly enhance the experience.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

Compared to other compact treadmills, the SMUG treadmill offers good value with essential features like a quiet motor and compact design. However, some rivals might offer better remote functionality or sturdiness. Those looking for a treadmill primarily for gentle walking will find this model appealing.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

This treadmillis perfect for small spaces and offers quiet performance for light exercise. It's great for users looking for a space-saving walking solution, but those needing rigorous workouts might consider alternatives.

GLOBAL RELAX®

Quiet and efficient with a sturdy build

Compact and robust treadmill ideal for adults looking for gradual conditioning and injury prevention. Shock absorbent design offers a smooth running experience, perfect for home fitness.

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The GLOBAL RELAX® KEIZAN X3 Professional treadmill stands out for its compact and portable design, perfect for home use. It offers 12 automatic training programs, making it versatile for fitness users interested in running, cardio, or general gym workouts. With a maximum speed of 8 mph and a foldable design, it's easy to store in small spaces. This treadmill also includes shock absorption to reduce injury risks and an LCD screen for tracking speed, distance, time and calories. Users have appreciated its sturdy build and quiet operation, which enhances the overall workout experience.

The auto incline feature and heart rate monitor ensure comprehensive cardio sessions, keeping users motivated and safe. Additionally, the treadmill's durability and robust design make it a reliable choice for prolonged use.

However, some users felt the squeaking noises detracted from the experience despite attempts to fix them. The balance needed for vertical use can be challenging. Additionally, instructions were found to be lacking in clarity. This could be frustrating for some users. Improved instructions and sound dampening could enhance the user experience.

Compared to other home treadmills, the KEIZAN X3 holds its own with a higher rating due to its portability and special features like auto incline. Though some sound issues persist, the overall user satisfaction, sturdy build and ease of use make it competitive against other similar products.

Overall, the KEIZAN X3 is a solid buy for adults looking for a compact, feature-packed treadmill for varied workouts at home. It's particularly ideal for users who prioritize foldability and convenience without sacrificing performance.

Note: There were no weights given in pounds to convert to kilograms in the provided text.

Pros

• Compact, foldable design for easy storage in small spaces.
• Shock-absorbing running surface reduces injury risk.
• Equipped with 12 automatic training programs for varied workouts.
• Sturdy build and quiet operation enhance user experience.
• Includes heart rate monitor for better workout tracking.

Cons

• Can develop squeaks, requiring regular maintenance.
• Instructions might not be very clear.
• Heavy and might be challenging to move for some users.

2-in-1 Home Folding Treadmill

Great for easy setup and compact storage

Reliable and space-efficient the Toputure home folding treadmill is ideal for limited space.

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What we liked:

The Toputure 2 In 1 Home Folding Treadmill is quite impressive. It truly stands out with its space-saving design, making it a perfect choice for home use. No assembly is needed thanks to its installation-free design and quick release buckle. This treadmill is easy to fold and store under a table or sofa. With a speed range of 1 to 16 km/h, it caters to walking, jogging and running.

Its 2.5 HP silent motor can handle a weight capacity of up to 130kg. The dual LED screen provides real-time updates on speed, distance, time and calories. With 12 preset programs, you can easily switch between different workouts. Another notable feature is the Bluetooth speaker for enjoying music and the heart rate monitor for real-time fitness tracking. The shock absorption system cushions your knees and joints, reducing noise, which is great in shared spaces.

What we didn't like:

There are a few areas where the treadmill could improve. Some users noted that having tracking info for delivery would be helpful. Although the treadmill excels in many areas, the lack of advanced features like a touch screen might put some off. A longer power cord would be nice, considering the placement flexibility.

Additionally, even though it is compact, the weight of 34.5kg might be cumbersome for some when moving it around. More guidance on connectivity with the FITSHOW app could also enhance the user experience.

How does it compare to similar treadmills?

The Toputure treadmill clearly competes well with others in its category. Its dual-purpose design for walking and running is a huge plus. Additionally, the absence of assembly requirements sets it apart. This treadmill's 2.5 HP motor and shock absorption features offer durability and comfort, comparable to higher-end models.

Its max speed and weight capacity make it suitable for a wide range of users, from youth to adults. Many treadmills in its price range do not offer Bluetooth connectivity or a dual LED screen, making it a more attractive option for tech-savvy users. However, its simplicity in features is more akin to entry-level models.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Toputure 2 In 1 Folding Treadmill is perfect for anyone needing a compact treadmill for home use. Its space-saving design, easy setup and dual functionality make it ideal for both casual walkers and more serious runners. It's a sound investment for those wanting versatility without breaking the bank.

£500 Treadmill Buyer’s Guide

AKA how not to get stuck with a treadmill you HATE

Those product pics all look amazing on the retailer’s websites. But how do you know you’re not getting something that SUCKS in real life? This quick guide will arm you with everything you need to know in order to NOT get stuck with a lemon and find the best running machine for under £500.

Check all these important specs before buying and you’ll be in a good place to pick a really good treadmill.

First up: the warranty

Buying a running machine for your home isn’t like ordering a smaller item online. They can be pretty big and returning them no small feat. The things we recommend you delve into before you hit that ‘buy’ button are:

1. What is the warranty? – how long is it for? A good warranty can be one, two or even three years. Some treadmills even guarantee parts like the frame or the motor for a lifetime.
2. If something goes wrong, how does it get sent back? Shipping fees on a whopping treadmill can run into silly money, so check who is responsible for return shipping.
3. Is there any home service? Our absolute favourite kind of warranty is the one where the company comes out to your home and fixes any problems. Places like JTX Fitness offer this and it’s way better than having to send anything back, or wait for a new part to be delivered!

TO make matters more complicated, a warranty might have different warranty lengths for:

1. Parts & labor
2. The motor
3. The frame

Motor power: Get your horsepower sorted

Horsepower, or HP for short, is one of the specs you’ll definitely want to cast an eye over. The bigger the HP number, the more power your motor will have. Look for something over 3 HP (most in the £500 zone will be way over this anyway).

Measure up the running track

Treadmills have a number of measurements you’ll want to look into, the regular width, height and length dimensions of course, but there’s another equally important measurement to check: the running track. You’ll need to look for the width and length of the running track and pick one that’s right for you.

• Too narrow: you might struggle to stay in position on the track.
• Too short: you won’t have enough room for your stride.

While the running track might seem like an issue for taller runners, more room to train in is important for any sized user. Bigger is generally better, although you’ll have to weigh that up with how large your treadmill can be for the space you have.

Generally speaking, unless you’re looking for a SUPER compact treadmill, look for a running track width over 40cm and a track length over 120cm. Commercial treadmills have a track that measures around 50 cm x 150 cm. The closer you can get up to those measurements, the better.

Check the user weight

Treadmills are a bit like hot tubs or swimming pools on a hot summer’s day. If you’ve got one at home, you might just find you’ve got lots of new friends. Think about who might end up using the treadmill and pick one that supports each user’s weight. The Max user weight, measured in kgs, is where you’ll need to look.

Shock absorption isn’t just for cars

Both your knees and the people you share a home with will thank you for checking this one. There’s no getting around the fact that running puts an extra impact on your joints. So make it kind on your knees and find a treadmill that has some decent shock-absorbing tech.

Some treadmills (often the budget ones) overlook this and can end up being a bit ‘thuddy’, for want of a better word. At just under £500 you should be able to find a treadmill with some cushioning, to reduce the impact while you’re running.

What’s a soft drop system?

One thing you might read in the treadmill descriptions is ‘soft drop’. This is only found on folding treadmills and it’s a cushioned way of lowering the running track from it’s folded position. Once released, it gently drops into place.

Why is this important? It makes for safer unfolding of your treadmill (no-one wants to get whacked on the head with their lovely new treadmill). And it also helps your back as there’s no bending involved.

Running machines that have a soft-drop system are usually easier to fold up as well, with the mechanism doing the heavy lifting for you.

The nice little extras

A couple of super-basic things we like to see on treadmills, that aren’t especially vital – but are handy:

1. Somewhere to put your bottle. Even better if there are two cup holders as the other one can always be used to stash phones, keys and other bits ‘n’ bobs.
2. A tablet holder. It’s amazing that otherwise excellent treadmills can often neglect to make space for a tablet. A little shelf is always appreciated.

Tell us about your treadmill

Got a cool running machine you want to shout about? Please let us know in the comments if you’ve found a good treadmill that’s not mentioned here, or about any of your own experiences with these popular fitness machines.