The 6 Best Treadmills for Bad Knees in 2024

Running on a treadmill can be taxing on your joints, and if you’re dealing with knee discomfort, odds are you’re going to be hesitant to hop onto one of these cardio machines for a worthwhile session. Thankfully, running on a treadmill with bad knees doesn’t need to be a challenging, painful experience. Plenty of the best treadmills have comfortable, well-cushioned running decks — as well as other accommodating components — to help you ease back into training at your full potential.

Finding an ideal treadmill for bad knees can be a different endeavor than searching for a top-performing treadmill overall. As our team of BarBend experts (including athletes and personal trainers) tested more than 45 treadmills, we kept a close eye on the most comfortable, cushioned machines for sensitive knees. To save you some trial and error (and keep your knees happy), we’ve gathered all the best treadmills for bad knees.

The 6 Best Treadmills for Bad Knees of 2024

• Best Treadmill for Bad Knees Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
• Best Cushioned Treadmill for Bad Knees: Sole TT8
• Best Walking Treadmill for Bad Knees: WalkingPad P1
• Best Budget Treadmill for Bad Knees: Horizon 7.4 AT
• Best Running Treadmill for Bad Knees: Echelon Stride-4S
• Best Budget Treadmill for Bad Knees: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

How We Tested and Chose the Best Treadmills for Bad Knees

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. We put about 45 different treadmills to the test to narrow down the best products. During testing, here are the factors we considered to build this list:

Cushioning

Running or walking on a well-cushioned platform can make a big difference when dealing with knee discomfort. We looked for treadmills with thick belts that could absorb impact better while pacing through workouts. While some silhouettes list their belt thickness and makeup (one-ply vs. two-ply, 1.1mm thick, etc.), others do not. So, we did our best to gather firsthand experience as much as possible when examining this factor.

Running Deck Dimensions

We looked at each treadmill’s listed running deck dimensions and tested their actual usability wherever possible. Additionally, you’ll notice that our pick for the best walking treadmill for bad knees boasts a smaller platform than others in this list. This may be perceived as a negative by some athletes, but you need to remember that your stride length increases directly with your speed. (6) Your lower walking pace won’t need as long of a platform, hence why the shorter deck isn’t a definite concern when looking for a walking-specific treadmill.

Incline and Decline Ranges

When it comes to finding an ideal treadmill for bad knees, you’re probably going to be less focused on the incline and decline ranges offered through the machine. It can be painful to train at higher inclines, so these toggles are likely to be left alone as you work through any injuries. (5) That said, you’ll want to ensure your machine can facilitate quality workouts once your knees are better, so we looked for treadmills offering worthwhile ranges that can be suited for these needs post-discomfort.

Studies also show that walking backwards downhill can help strengthen your knees over time. (2) So, we tried to find treadmills that offered a decline range wherever possible. 

Storage

Treadmills are some of the largest pieces of home gym equipment out there, so being able to conveniently house them when not in use is a plus for any athlete. When looking for profiles targeting bad knees, we looked at how spacious each silhouette was when in operation, and whether the design featured any space-saving components such as a foldable running deck. 

Workout Experience

You’re already going into your treadmill session with discomfort and irritability — why enhance those feelings with a lack of training variety or other conveniences? We looked at how accommodating each treadmill was during workouts through a slew of categories.

Was there an available app integration that allowed for versatile training? Could the console support streaming services that allowed us to watch along with our favorite programs during paces? Were there utilitarian conveniences like media and water bottle holders within reach? All played a part in our rankings as we tried to deliver picks that could keep spirits high in less-than-desirable circumstances.

Price

Exercise equipment certainly isn’t cheap, especially when it comes to cardio machinery. You can find treadmills at a pretty broad variety of price points, so we tried to include as many options as possible. That way, athletes shopping on a budget can find a suitable machine.

Best Treadmill for Bad Knees Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Our team holds the Commercial 1750 in high regard,  but our favorite NordicTrack treadmill is not just a one-trick pony. We admire its effectiveness for athletes with bad knees thanks to its impressive Run Flex cushioning technology. We gave this machine an overall 4.5 out of 5 after rigorous testing.

“This machine felt incredibly sturdy,” our tester said, giving the durability a 5 out of 5. “I do weigh less than the capacity but even running at the max speed, I didn’t feel the machine was shaky at all.” 

Our testers specifically enjoyed the supple landing in each stride during testing, which lessened the impact felt across our joints. We also gave the customization options a 5 out of 5, as this machine goes to a negative three percent decline all the way up to a 15 percent incline, which is more than you’ll find with most treadmills.

Of course, it’s hard to recommend a NordicTrack treadmill without mentioning the iFIT library of online training classes and challenges. Earning a 5 out of 5 for tech capabilities, this platform is among our favorites with its seemingly endless variety of workouts and programs. However, you do need to pay for access to the platform after a 30-day trial period. Some athletes may not love this additional charge but we’re big fans of iFIT over at BarBend.

The Commercial 1750 also features a rotating 14-inch touchscreen, which our tester appreciated when mixing on-treadmill and off-treadmill workouts within their respective regimen.

Navigating the display on the NordicTrack Commercial 1750

When it comes to overall value, we couldn’t help but give the 1750 a perfect 5 out of 5. “This machine does have a slightly higher price than you’ll see with other models but you do get all of the comforts of a top-of-the-line treadmill,” our tester said.

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Review.

Best Cushioned Treadmill for Bad Knees: Sole TT8

In testing, we found that the Sole TT8 provided the most comfortable running deck, thanks to its impressive Cushion Flex Whisper technology. This, along with a two-ply belt, helped make every stride feel as if we were running on clouds, according to our tester. These components are also designed to help reduce impact by up to 40 percent across your joints, making it an easy pick for our best cushioned treadmill.

In addition to its plush running surface, we also enjoyed the various settings available with this Sole treadmill, giving the customization a 5 out of 5. The max speed of 12 miles per hour and max incline of 15 percent provided our tester with plenty of range to mix up their intensity during workouts. The ability to train on a decline can be great for athletes dealing with joint issues, as regular decline training may help improve balance and knee strength. (2)

The Sole TT8 is also plenty durable thanks to its reinforced framework rated for athletes up to 400 pounds. “Durability is no issue with this machine and it’s hard to find other comparable models,” our tester said, giving this category a 5 out of 5. 

Plus, Sole backs up this impressive profile with lifetime coverage for the frame and motor, along with three years of support for the deck, parts, and wear items. One-year labor coverage is also included with the expansive warranty package, which can do a lot in offsetting the higher price tag.

Unfortunately, though, we had to give the footprint a 3 out of 5. The machine takes up 21.77 square feet of space, so this isn’t the most ideal profile for athletes needing a compact machine. Additionally, the Sole TT8 doesn’t feature a foldable design, meaning you can’t regain any floor space when the treadmill is not in use. 

The price point is also a bit higher than the other models on this list at $2,699.99. We gave this factor a 3.5 out of 5, as it’s probably out of many athletes’ budgets. That being said, if you can swing it and really want a cushioned machine, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a match like this one.

Read our full Sole TT8 Review.

Best Walking Treadmill for Bad Knees: WalkingPad P1

We understand if your nagging knees are so discomforting that you can’t muster up the energy for a full-blown run every day. If you’re looking to support your joint health with a daily dose of walking, though, we recommend this impressive WalkingPad P1.

“After using this machine each day for 10 to 15 minute walks, I enjoyed the experience,” our tester, a certified personal trainer says, giving the WalkingPad P1 an overall 4 out of 5 for workout experience. “The top speed isn’t very high but it’s plenty for walking sessions.”

This machine has four-layer cushioning to help minimize the joint impact while completing your daily steps. However, our team did give this treadmill a 3.5 out of 5 for customizations. There are no incline or decline options here and, as mentioned, the top speed is pretty low, as is the 220-pound weight capacity.

“I’m actually pretty surprised by the durability of this machine, though,” our tester says, giving this category a 4 out of 5. “After owning my WalkingPad for a year and a half, I’ve had no issue with it breaking down in any way.”

When it comes to footprint and portability — 4.5 out of 5 from our tester — it’s tough to match the WalkingPad P1 or similarly-designed C2 model that BarBend editorial member Matt Cummings tested out. “WalkingPad treadmills just fold right in half, so to move it around, I simply lifted it up and set it back down,” he says. “I wish there was some kind of handle to make that easier, but just grabbing the frame wasn’t difficult, either.”

Along with the remote control, both models can use WalkingPad’s unique FootSense Technology to adjust speed. “I was very skeptical about how responsive the FootSense Technology would be, but after getting the hang of it, I preferred it to the manual mode,” he says. “When I walked closer to the front of the belt, it sped up smoothly, then the opposite for the rear of the belt.”

This one does have pretty non-existent tech capabilities, earning a 3.5 out of 5 in that category. However, you can connect your phone to your treadmill via the app to adjust the speed, which is pretty handy, considering the entire machine sits on the ground. 

The WalkingPad P1 is pretty cost-friendly at $369, earning a 4 out of 5 for overall value. However our tester did have some issues with the remote. A little after a year of owning the machine, the remote completely stopped working, which is a bummer because it’s how you control the machine. Luckily, the app still works and has the same capabilities but we still would have liked to see some more longevity there.

[Related: Best Treadmills for Apartments]

Best Treadmill for Bad Knees with Streaming: Horizon 7.4 AT

Training with bad knees can be painful in its own right, but training on a machine with zero tech options? That’s a different kind of pain. Luckily, the Horizon 7.4 AT connects to all your favorite third-party apps to allow you to stream your own workouts.

We gave the tech capabilities of this machine a 5 out of 5. This treadmill has Bluetooth connectivity, making it possible to stream your favorite third-party apps, like Zwift or Peloton. However, you do need your own tablet or phone to stream the workouts but you can mount it on the machine’s device holder.

When it comes to adjustability and ergonomics, our testers gave this one a 4.5 out of 5. “You get quick-dial adjustments, which make customizing this machine so quick and easy,” they said. “You can also design your own workouts on the custom intervals program, which I liked.”

You shouldn’t come across any durability issues with the 7.4 AT. The max weight capacity is 325 pounds, which is pretty standard and our testers really enjoyed the sturdiness of the machine, giving this category a 4.5 out of 5. “The deck is cushioned and feels comfortable,” our tester said. “I do just wish there was a little less plastic on the machine.” Though, we don’t foresee any issues with breaking parts.

For overall value, we did have to knock the Horizon 7.4 AT a few points, giving it a 3.75 out of 5. This machine has a lot of bells and whistles but $1,599 is a lot to pay for a treadmill. If it’s within your price range and streamable content is a priority, definitely go for it. But know that you can find less expensive treadmills on this list with comparable performance.

Best Running Treadmill for Bad Knees: Echelon Stride 4S

Given the wide range of speeds and incline options, the Echelon Stride 4S makes a good running treadmill. But paired with the plush deck, it’s also a good choice for runners with sensitive knee joints. “The cushioning on the deck was plenty bouncy and comfortable. I’ve run on even more cushioned decks but this was a good one,” our tester said. 

For durability, our tester gave the Echelon Stride 4S a 5 out of 5. Even at top speed, our team didn’t notice any shaking or movement. We also liked that the side beams are made of metal, rather than plastic, further contributing to the overall durability.

The tech capabilities for this treadmill earned a 3 out of 5. It comes equipped with a 22-inch touchscreen that has 180 degree rotation for off-treadmill workouts, too. You get access to Echelon’s wide library of workout videos where you can try new programs and track your progress. However, you do have to pay a $11.99 monthly fee for membership, which some athletes may not love. We also didn’t think you get quite as many workout options compared to other programs.

For portability and footprint, we gave this one a 4 out of 5. It does have wheels and a handle, making it easy to move around. You can also vertically fold the machine, making it easy to free up your living space.

As a whole, we think this one is a 3.5 out of 5 for value. As a running treadmill for sensitive knees, we think it makes a good fit. But the technology does drive up the price tag to a pricey $1,724.99. You can definitely find cheaper options on this list.

[Related: Best Treadmills for Running]

Best Budget Treadmill for Bad Knees: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars for a good treadmill. In fact, you can get a pretty high-quality machine for just a couple hundred bucks. At only $419.99, our team gave the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 an overall 5 out of 5 for value. 

“This machine folds flat and could easily fit in a larger car, if needed,” our tester said, giving the portability a 5 out of 5. “I also liked the soft drop feature because it’s actually quiet, the machine doesn’t slam on the ground.”

We did have to dock this machine a few points for durability, giving it a 3 out of 5. Realistically, we don’t expect this one to last for a few decades. But considering it’s a budget-friendly treadmill, that’s to be expected.

This treadmill doesn’t offer too much when it comes to customizations and adjustability, earning a 3.5 out of 5 and 3 out of 5 in each category, respectively. There’s very little incline adjustability with this machine and it may not work for all athletes, given the size and 220-pound weight capacity.

There’s not too much tech capabilities with this machine, but that’s also expected, given the budget-friendly cost. The lcd digital monitor can track your speed, time, distance, pulse, and calories, however there’s no streaming compatibility. Athletes who love virtual workout classes may want to opt for another machine.

[Related: Best Treadmills on Amazon]

How to Choose a Treadmill for Bad Knees

If you have knee discomfort and want to elevate your training with a worthwhile treadmill, there are a few components to consider. Below are some factors we recommend looking into as you inquire about a treadmill for bad knees.

Running Deck

Most worthwhile running decks will measure 20 inches wide and 60 inches long. These are ideal dimensions, as they can cater to most walking and running strides. Shorter running platforms may be acceptable for walking, but they could be too confined for workouts at higher tempos. Taller athletes may also want to explore longer running decks to better facilitate their longer gaits.

You also want to look at the actual makeup of your treadmill’s running deck, as this can affect your overall comfort during training. Thicker belts of two-ply and three-ply materials can be better at shock absorption, heling lessen the energy transfer you experience in your joints.

“While it is best to talk to a movement specialist, like a physical therapist, before beginning a new exercise routine, if you have injuries or joint conditions, you may be pleased to know there are still plenty of treadmills on the market that are able to ease joint pain commonly associated with walking and running,” according to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC. “Some machines feature specially designed padding beneath the belt to absorb shock and reduce impact.”

Technology

Most quality machines, like those featured in this round-up, will be able to reach speeds up to 12 miles per hour, as well as inclines of up to 15 percent. You can also opt for a treadmill that supports decline settings, which may be a worthwhile discipline to explore when trying to strengthen your knees. Studies have indicated that regularly walking backwards at a decline can help improve your balance and stability, lending itself to stronger joints and musculature over regular practice. (2)

Roller Size

Your rollers dictate how efficient your treadmill belt moves in a single revolution. The larger the rollers are, the less energy your machine needs to turn that belt. This can help preserve the effectiveness and efficiency of your treadmill motor over time. 

We’ve found that rollers over two inches in diameter can withstand extended use more so than rollers of smaller stature. Some treadmills may feature 1.9-inch rollers, but oftentimes offset this technology with more durable, high-quality motors. Be sure to check out your treadmill’s technical specifications prior to purchase — if the rollers are smaller than two inches, make sure they’re supported by a well-built motor of at least three CHP (constant horsepower) to facilitate more rigorous use.

Price

Lastly, it’s important to consider the actual cost of treadmills when looking for an option that’s suitable for your bad knees or knee injuries. Prices can range from budget-friendly profiles under $1,000, to luxury-riddled silhouettes reaching five-figure totals. The treadmills we’ve dubbed as worthwhile for athletes suffering from knee issues carry price tags between roughly $600 and $3,000.

Cheaper profiles may suit your budget more, but may not offer convenient features like integrated apps, streaming capabilities, and versatile speed and incline settings. Think about how much you’re willing to invest in your home gym layout before ultimately deciding on a profile.

Benefits of Treadmills for Bad Knees

As intimidating as it may seem, using a treadmill while dealing with knee discomfort can actually be a boost to your overall well-being. These feature-rich machines can be great for keeping active throughout the irritation while also supporting your physique for fewer aches and pains in the future.

Comfort

Treadmills that cater to athletes with bad knees can often showcase an added emphasis on in-training comfort. These machines do so by featuring thicker, shock absorbent running belts. Some may also feature cushion-enhancing technology designed to offer a more low-impact experience.

“A treadmill with a cushioned deck provides comfort during exercise that can’t be found on pavement or trails,” explains  Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC. “For people with bad knees, a cushioned treadmill might be the only option for participating in weight-bearing cardio exercise”. 

Improved Balance

Walking on a treadmill can also be a great way to improve your balance, according to studies. (2) Having a greater sense of balance in your daily life can help you prevent errant falls and unnecessary strain across your joints. This can be especially beneficial for older athletes as well. (3)

Injury Prevention

Treadmills can be an excellent tool for strengthening the muscles around your knees. (1) Working these muscles while dealing with knee pain can be challenging at times, but the end results can leave you with more supported joints overall. This can lead to fewer injuries in the future and greater improvement in your performance day in and day out. As with any workout program, though, your results are influenced by your dedication to the routine — you’ll only reap the perks if you stick with your training.

[Related: Best Treadmills for Seniors]

How Much Do Treadmills for Bad Knees Cost?

Treadmills with the kind of cushioning that can ease the impact on your knees tend to cost more than $1,500, putting them on the upper end of the average cost for treadmills. We did, however, seek to include a budget option under $500 and a walking treadmill that can also help save you a bit of coin. All told, the picks on our list range between $369 and $2,699.99. See their price tags side by side in the below chart. 

Best Treadmill for Bad Knees Overall	NordicTrack Commercial 1750	$2,499
Best Cushioned Treadmill for Bad Knees	Sole TT8	$2,699.99
Best Walking Treadmill for Bad Knees	WalkingPad P1	$369
Best Budget Treadmill for Bad Knees	Horizon 7.4 AT	$1,599
Best Running Treadmill for Bad Knees	Echelon Stride-4S	$1,724.99
Best Budget Treadmill for Bad Knees	Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400	$419.99

How to Use a Treadmill with Bad Knees

Because of your apparent joint discomfort, walking or running on a treadmill with bad knees is a little different than your normal, fully-healthy strides. After all, you don’t want to irritate your joints even further by pushing your limits too far in a given exercise. Below are a few quick tips to help ensure your training sessions remain as comfortable and efficient as possible.

Warm Up Before Training

Going into a treadmill session cold can be a prime opportunity for further joint aggravation. So, to help your knees ease into the workout, it’s important to warm up and stretch before your day’s training circuit.

Take roughly 10 to 15 minutes to get your body warmed up for your run or walk, and be sure to put some extra focus on activating your knees. This can be done in multiple fashions — from a full-blown dynamic warm-up, to quick foam rolling sessions, and more.

Avoid Excessive Inclines and Speeds

While some pitch moderation and uptempo pacing can be beneficial for strengthening your bad knees, you don’t want to force your body into unnatural stances too quickly when dealing with discomfort. Inclines between 10 and 12 percent can be stressful across the joints more often than not, creating an added sense of strain that could stall your progress overall.

It’s important to listen to your body as you work through your recovery, so be sure to set your running platform at an incline that gives you some sense of challenge without completely throttling your already aching knees.

In terms of speed, your pace can impact your stride length as well as your impact on the platform itself. (6) You’ll be pushing off the running deck with more force (and subsequently landing in the same fashion) if you’re trying to keep up with a quicker speed setting. So, we recommend taking your workouts to a cruising pace at first, adjusting your tempo in-tune with how you feel on a given day.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

You don’t need to solely rely on your treadmill’s running deck when it comes to creating a well-cushioned stride. Your running shoes can make just as much an impact (pun intended) when it comes to creating a comfortable training setup. Be sure to pair your cardio training to footwear that matches your gait with proper levels of support and stability.

It can also be helpful to go with running shoes featuring a comfortable upper and lacing structure. Finally, make sure there’s enough underfoot cushioning across the midsole to make every step as cozy as possible — you don’t want to have a rigid, brick-like sensation in your landings when trying to keep joint impact as low as possible.

Listen to Your Body

Finally, the one person that best understands how your knees feel in the throes of a workout is you. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced athlete, be sure to listen to your body before, during, and after your treadmill sessions, taking necessary breaks and pauses when necessary. Your knees will tell you when they’ve had enough and when they need a rest, so be sure to listen for these cues when trying to manage your pain and training schedule in tandem.

[Related: The 7 Best Treadmills for Tall Runners of 2024 — Expert Tested and Approved]

Final Word

The best treadmills for bad knees emphasize comfort and approachability rather than training intensity. This focused approach to workouts can help you maintain progress as you work through discomfort, and many of the profiles also have enough bells and whistles to make those post-injury sessions enjoyable, too.

Walking and running on a treadmill has also been shown to be a great way to strengthen your knees and lower body overall. (1) Practicing in this discipline can help set yourself up for less irritation and joint discomfort in the long run, leaving you with a healthier, sturdier frame of tackling all your fitness desires. We know that training around a potential injury is never an enjoyable challenge, but if you want to make the most of these workouts, these are the treadmill profiles we recommend.

FAQs

References

1. Alghadir, A. H., Anwer, S., Sarkar, B., Paul, A. K., & Anwar, D. (2019, April 9). Effect of 6-week retro or forward walking program on pain, functional disability, quadriceps muscle strength, and performance in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial (retro-walking trial) – BMC musculoskeletal disorders. BioMed Central. https://bmcmusculoskeletdisord.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12891-019-2537-9
2. Cha, H.-G., Kim, T.-H., & Kim, M.-K. (2016). Therapeutic efficacy of walking backward and forward on a slope in normal adults. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 28(6), 1901–1903. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4932084/
3. Pirouzi, S., Motealleh, A. R., Fallahzadeh, F., & Fallahzadeh, M. A. (2014, November). Effectiveness of treadmill training on balance control in elderly people: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Iranian journal of medical sciences. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4242992/
4. Plancher, K. (2021, May 10). Protect your knees while running on the Treadmill. Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. https://plancherortho.com/protect-your-knees-while-running-on-the-treadmill/
5. Tarniţă, D., Petcu, A. I., & Dumitru, N. (2020). Influences of treadmill speed and incline angle on the kinematics of the normal, osteoarthritic and prosthetic human knee. Romanian Journal of Morphology and Embryology, 61(1), 199–208.
6. van Oeveren, B. T., de Ruiter, C. J., Beek, P. J., & van Dieën, J. H. (2017). Optimal stride frequencies in running at different speeds. PLoS One, 12(10). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5653196/