A baby is born, learns to crawl, then walk, and finally run. If that excitement carries onward — or weather impedes progress — the best treadmills can be helpful in allowing such athletes to hit their stride all from the comforts of their own homes. That said, these coveted cardio machines can be expensive if you aren’t careful. The best treadmills under $1,000 provide all the performance-laden benefits of treadmill running without the heightened financial burden.
Choosing to bring cardio equipment into your home is an investment in your health, with the benefits of running proven to strengthen bones, increase cardiovascular function, manage weight, and improve mental health. (1) However, while you’re investing in your own well-being, that doesn’t mean your bank account needs to take a hit. To help, we’ve logged hundreds of miles on these human-sized hamster wheels and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this round-up of the best treadmills under $1,000 available today.
The Best Treadmills Under $1,000 of 2024
- Best Treadmill Under $1,000 Overall: Horizon 7.0 AT
- Best ProForm Treadmill Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon TLX
- Best Running Treadmill Under $1000: Sole F63
- Best Incline Treadmill Under $1,000: Horizon T101
- Best Compact Treadmill Under $1,000: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400
- Best Under Desk Treadmill Under $1,000: GoPlus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
- Best Budget Treadmill Under $1,000: XTERRA Fitness TR150
- Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,000: Schwinn 810
Want even more discounts on your favorite equipment and supplements? We’ve gathered all the Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Fitness Sales to help you save as much as possible this holiday season.
How We Tested the Best Treadmills Under $1,000
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best treadmills under $1,000, we got hands-on with 51 different equipment silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.
For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.
- Footprint and Portability: We included the dimensions of each treadmill so you can measure out your space and get an idea of how they might fit. We also made sure to mention the weight of various machines and the inclusion of assisted lowering mechanisms and transport wheels, so the reader can ascertain how much effort is needed to move this cardio equipment.
- Available Programming: While we understand that treadmills under $1,000 aren’t typically compatible with the best fitness apps for on-demand training, we were able to find some silhouettes that catered to this workout style. More often than not, though, we looked for sub-$1,000 treadmills offering a handful of preset workouts to help keep each session fresh and interesting.
- Running Dimensions: An otherwise great treadmill can be rendered useless if the running surface doesn’t match your training goals, so we made sure to include the dimensions of each pick’s running deck for added clarity. According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, “People who intend to run or sprint on their treadmill should look for a running deck of at least 60 inches in length. Walkers and joggers can get away with shorter decks, unless they are really tall individuals — 50 to 55 inches can usually cut it for walking and light jogging.”
- Build Quality: Just because these are affordable treadmills doesn’t mean that durability and build quality need to be sacrificed. We looked extensively at the motor size of each chosen treadmill to see how the horsepower translates to training and also examined the listed weight limits to determine how stable and structurally sound the silhouette would be in your home gym.
- Added Conveniences: It can be nice to have a few conveniences and add-ons strewn across your treadmill silhouette. We highlighted perks like available USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, built-in fans, water bottle holders, and media holders.
- Warranty and Price: Capritto states, “I recommend looking for 10 years on the frame, at least two years on parts, and at least one year for labor,” so we did our best to sort out treadmills under $1,000 offering warranty packages similar to these guidelines. Price-wise, we did include some profiles costing over $1,000, but made note when these products go on sale or other tidbits on the best time to buy a treadmill.
Best Treadmill Under $1,000 Overall: Horizon 7.0 AT
The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a durable, low-cost option for anyone looking for a quality treadmill without overspending. It features a strong motor, a wide range of speed and incline settings, and a unique three-zone cushion system.
Specs
- Price: $999
- Product Dimensions: 76″ L x 35″ W x 67″ H
- Product Weight: 277lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 325lbs
- Programming: 8 preset workouts; compatible atZone, Peloton, Strava, and more
- Belt Size: 60” L x 20” W
- Step-Up Height: 8.625”
You want the benefits of cardio: improved cardiovascular fitness, stronger bones and muscles, a longer lifespan, weight management — the list goes on — and you want it at an affordable price. (2) For our money, the Horizon 7.0 AT is the best of the bunch thanks to its robust speed and incline ranges toggleable through QuickDial controls, its compatibility with a handful of training apps, and its spacious running deck that can serve athletes of all shapes and sizes.
Now, the MSRP of this Horizon Fitness treadmill is well beyond the $1,000 threshold, but we’ve routinely seen it listed on the brand’s retail site for $999 so we’re happy to include it in this round-up. For that discounted cost, you get a well-built machine capable of reaching speeds up to 12 miles per hour and incline options up to 15 percent.
Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, also rates the durability at 4 out of 5, stating, “Even when I was running, the machine didn’t shake. There’s also lifetime warranty coverage for the frame and motor in case treadmill problems do pop up over your time with the machine.”
While this treadmill motor coverage is beneficial, we did rate the warranty at 4 out of 5 since the coverage is less expansive than other packages offered for the brand’s other treadmill silhouettes. For example, the 7.4 AT — the 7.0 AT’s larger brethren — carries longer five- and two-year coverages for parts and labor, whereas the 7.0 AT is supported with three- and one-year packages, respectively.
The 7.0 AT also comes with Bluetooth capabilities so you can track your laps with some of the best running apps like Strava or Peloton. However, tech capabilities scored a 3 out of 5 with our tester. “Sure, this treadmill has Bluetooth, but only certain apps can connect,” they say. “I also would have liked a touchscreen, but there’s only a small LCD display.”
Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.
Best ProForm Treadmill Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon TLX
Adjusts up to a 12% grade so that you can feel like you're hitting real hills. With an iFIT subscription you can hit trails around the world from the comfort of your own home.
Specs
- Price: $999
- Dimensions: 74.3“ L x 35.1“ W x 59.1“ H
- Weight: 249lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Programming: iFIT-enabled
- Belt Size: 60” L x 20” W
- Step-Up Height: 7.75”
Some of the best ProForm treadmills are available for less than a grand, too. The Carbon TLX is one of our favorite wallet-minded silhouettes from the popular fitness brand thanks to its integration with the iFIT training platform, which offers over 17,000 on-demand workouts across a litany of disciplines, including strength training, HIIT, yoga, and (of course) running.
Our tester, an ISSA-certified personal trainer, scores the dynamic programming at 4 out of 5. “You don’t often get iFIT compatibility in sub-$1,000 treads, so having this feature is a definite win.” Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and certified personal trainer, adds, “I’d recommend [iFIT] over basically any other brand’s programming. It’s giving Peloton a run for their money.”
In addition to the wide range of workouts and courses, the Carbon TLX’s iFIT compatibility also gives access to the platform’s AutoAdjust features. As you follow along to the on-screen workouts — you’ll need a separate smartphone or tablet given this treadmill’s lack of a touchscreen display — the Bluetooth-connected feature can automatically toggle your speed and incline ranges in step with your instructor.
Of course, though, the ProForm Carbon TLX does have some drawbacks, which our tester notes in the cushioning department. They rate the ergonomics at 3.5 out of 5, stating: “The included ProShox cushioning did little to differentiate itself from regular outdoor running. I’d be hesitant to recommend this machine for those that are dealing with joint issues or nagging injuries.”
We also score the available conveniences at 4 out of 5. This treadmill boasts a foldable running deck for better storage, multiple water bottle holders, and a CoolAire fan for keeping workouts chilled and comfortable. There are also dual 2-inch speakers for your audio needs, although we’d suggest opting for a pair of the best running headphones since the limited cushioning can lead to louder strides in training.
Read our full ProForm Carbon TLX Review.
Best Running Treadmill Under $1000: Sole F63
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. Sole is also discounting the F63 by $100 as part of the brand's holiday sales event.
Specs
- Price: $1,199.99
- Dimensions: 77“ L x 35“ W x 67“ H
- Weight: 224lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 325lbs
- Programming: 9 preset workouts
- Belt Size: 60“ L x 20” W
- Step-Up Height: 8”
According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, “You’ll want a running deck at least 60 inches in length to accommodate the length of a typical running stride.” If you’re looking to stay around your $1,000 budget, we recommend the Sole F63 for these needs. While the price tag is slightly above the threshold, when it comes to the best treadmills for running, the F63 is one of our favorite wallet-friendly picks.
Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and two-time marathoner, rated the durability of this high-quality machine at 4 out of 5. “The weight capacity is a solid 325 pounds, but when I’m running, the treadmill shakes. Especially when I take it to the highest incline setting and sprint. But it’s not a deal breaker.”
Still, though, if you run into common treadmill problems, Sole has you covered with a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor in addition to two-year coverage for the running deck, parts, and wear items. Labor and cosmetic items are also protected with one-year and 90-day packages, respectively. As such, we score the warranty at 4.5 out of 5.
While the Sole F63 does not come with a touchscreen display or ample streaming capabilities for the best running apps, there are seven preset workouts to choose from along with two user-generated modules for nine programs in total. These can be especially helpful when trying to keep your running regimen fresh and interesting as you toggle through the available speed and incline ranges.
Finally, we’ll admit that this best Sole treadmill does cost more than $1,000 — the essential theme of this round-up. However, given the impressive warranty, comfortable running deck (Meier notes that the included cushioning was a positive aspect, rating it 4.5 out of 5), and solid build construction, we’re willing to spend the extra $200 if it means giving us the best setup for high-octane sprints and all-out runs that match our fitness goals.
Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.
Best Incline Treadmill Under $1,000: Horizon T101
The T101 from Horizon has a solid mix of tech and running features. Whether you're looking for integrated bluetooth speakers, or a reliable motor to keep you moving, the T101 has something for everyone. Use code BARBEND50 for $50 off.
Specs
- Price: $999
- Dimensions: 71″ L x 34″ W x 57″ H
- Weight: 180lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Programming: 6 preset workouts
- Belt Size: 55“ L x 20” W
- Step-Up Height: 7.125”
Studies suggest that running at an incline is capable of enhancing metabolic, muscular, and neuromuscular processes in distance runners. (4) However, you can start to get into some expensive equipment when looking at the best incline treadmills. Thankfully, some budget-minded treads offer such technologies at a lower price, such as the T101 from Horizon Fitness. Capable of reaching inclines up to 10%, this can be a wonderful piece of home gym equipment that can have your training setups reaching new heights (pun intended).
In addition to the available incline range, the T101 can reach speeds up to 10 miles per hour. Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and certified personal trainer, notes, “I really like how Horizon includes its EasyDial controls here. The spinning dials allow you to quickly find that ideal incline and speed for training rather than continuously mashing buttons across the console.” As such, we rate the adjustability at 4 out of 5.
While this added convenience is a definite perk, the T101 is limited when it comes to other training-focused tech. For one, this treadmill is not compatible with the best treadmill apps, meaning your all-important data will need to be added manually to your go-to service. Plus, we scored the tech at 2 out of 5 given that there’s no available programming outside of the preset modules featured on the LCD screen — you cannot connect to a digital workout service (or, at least, cannot stream workouts through the console itself).
Additionally, we recommend this incline treadmill for light jogging or walking over more intense running sessions. The 2.5 continuous horsepower motor isn’t powerful enough to withstand the rigors of high-intensity sprints on a regular schedule. Plus, the 55-inch running deck may be too short for running strides, meaning you could potentially overstep the tread belt when really stretching your gait during sprints. Alas, though, for under $1,000 can you expect a machine that can truly do it all?
Read our full Horizon T101 Treadmill Review.
Best Compact Treadmill Under $1,000: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400
This Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill is a steal at less than $400. It goes up to high speeds and even has some incline capabilities at an ultra-low price. Use code EARLY15 to snag early Black Friday deals before Nov. 20.
Specs
- Price: $499.99
- Dimensions: 62“ L x 25.5“ W x 50“ H
- Weight: 103lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 220lbs
- Programming: 9 preset workouts
- Belt Size: 49“ L x 16” W
- Step-Up Height: 6.93”
When space is limited — and your budget is tight — you can still get your cardio training in by bringing the best compact exercise equipment into your home. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF T4400 has one of the highest footprint and portability scores of all of the treadmills we’ve tested with a perfect 5 out of 5. When you’re looking for a compact treadmill, that is the score to take into consideration.
This best compact treadmill folds up nice and compact, from 50 inches tall and 62 inches long to 58 inches tall and 36 inches long. Our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, notes, “If you folded it up, it could definitely fit in some cars. And when unfolding it, there’s a soft drop feature that assists with lowering, so you don’t have to worry about the deck crashing down onto the floor.”
Customizations and adjustability both scored a 3.5 out of 5, as well, due to the lower max speed capabilities and its three levels of manual incline adjustment. “I wouldn’t recommend this treadmill for advanced runners, but this is a great choice for those looking for an affordable way to stay active in small spaces,” our tester says. “This treadmill is meant for a specific audience who’s looking to move some more and burn a few more calories. And this will give you just that. Plus, it’s sturdy and compact.”
As with any treadmill at a reasonable, affordable price, you’ll have to make some trade-offs when it comes to what’s included. Our tester states, “There’s a device holder for a tablet or smartphone, but I don’t think I would trust putting my devices on it. There’s also no cup holder for your water bottle or other small must-haves.”
Conveniences score a 2 out of 5, while tech capabilities score a 3 out of 5. “You get the basic workout stats from the backlit digital odometer along with some pre-programmed workouts,” says our tester. Some of its capabilities may be limited, but at under $500, it brings plenty of bang to your buck.
Read our full Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill Review.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill Under $1,000: GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
This versatile treadmill can support walking and running workouts with speeds up to 7.5 miles per hour. An easy-to-use remote control puts you in control of your pace without hopping off the treadmill, too, which can be great for slowing down your strides for focusing on incoming emails or tasks.
Specs
- Price: $299.95
- Dimensions: 52.5″ L x 29″ W x 44.5″ H with handrails, 52.5″ L x 29″ W x 5″ H without handrails
- Weight: 69.5lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 265lbs
- Available Programming: N/A
- Belt Size: 40“ L x 16” W
- Step Up Height: 5”
Long hours spent working, sitting at your desk, and typing “as per my last email” leaves little time for you to give your body the movement and focus it deserves. What you need is to work out while you work, and the GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill is one of the best under-desk treadmills we’ve tried. It scored a 4 out of 5 in categories such as footprint and portability, delivery and setup, workout experience, and customer reviews. Also, at under $300, it pulled in a 4.25 out of 5 score for value.
That said, our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, advises that you use this sub-$1,000 treadmill for midday walks or light jogs. “I really enjoy the convenience of getting my steps in while sending emails and answering calls, but I wouldn’t want to work through an entire treadmill pace chart atop this profile,” they added. “The power simply isn’t there.”
Speaking of power, we also rated the durability at 2.5 out of 5 given the lightweight frame and smaller motor design. While this silhouette can make for easy storage, it can be easy to bog down the 2.25-horsepower motor during longer sessions … or even if you start your workout by standing on top of the tread belt during startups. “For the price you’re paying, the durability matches, though. You’re getting what you paid for,” notes our tester.
Despite these shortcomings, we still think the GoPlus 2-in-1 is a high-quality treadmill for under-desk needs primarily thanks to the convenient remote control that wirelessly toggles your settings. There’s no need to crunch down between your workspace to adjust your speed. Instead, speeding up or slowing down is just a few buttons away, and for that, we rated the conveniences at 3 out of 5.
Read our full GoPlus 2-in-1 Treadmill Review.
Best Budget Treadmill Under $1,000: XTERRA Fitness TR150
This folding treadmill is powered by a quiet 2.25 HP motor, allowing for speeds up to 10 miles per hour. It features a 50-inch belt, three incline levels, and 250-pound maximum weight capacity. Right now, you can save even more with Black Friday deals on Amazon.
Specs
- Price: $679.99
- Dimensions: 63.4″ L x 28.75″ W x 51.4″ H
- Weight: 97lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 250lbs
- Programming: 12 preset workouts
- Belt Size: 50“ L x 16” W
- Step-Up Height: 5.15”
When choosing the best budget home gym equipment, a deal can be empowering. The XTERRA Fitness TR 150 is our choice for the best budget treadmill under $1,000 because, well, it’s only roughly $680 — a price well below the roughly $820 average of other treads in the category. The 2.25-horsepower motor delivers speeds up to 10 miles per hour, handlebar pulse sensors track your heart rate, and the maximum user weight allows for movers and shakers up to 250 pounds. Value, portability, and setup scored a 4 out of 5, according to our findings.
An accessory holder and media shelf allow you to keep things you want close, and 12 preset programs can give your training a boost. Conveniences scored a 4 out of 5 for these additions. “It’s simple, but I like that about it,” said our expert tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor.
The deck is also 16 inches wide by 50 inches long, so those with longer strides might feel cramped. “I don’t love the belt, because it doesn’t feel great, and I wouldn’t say the deck is comfortable. This isn’t a treadmill meant for long-distance running,” says our tester, who rates their workout experience at 3.5 out of 5.
As such, if you’re in search of a deal, this is where the XTERRA takes the cake. “For under $680, the maximum 10-mile-per-hour speed is good. However, I’d recommend users not fold this up since there’s a lack of safety features,” our tester said, rating adjustability at 2 out of 5. “Unlike a lot of treadmills that fold up, this one has no assist when you lower. So, if someone were to accidentally pull out the pin, which is fairly easy to do, it would fall on them.”
Read our full XTERRA Fitness TR150 Treadmill Review.
Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,000: Schwinn 810
This treadmill offers a 20-inch x 55-inch running belt with Softrak deck cushioning. It can reach speeds up to 10 MPH with 10% motorized incline.
Specs
- Price: $899
- Dimensions: 69.1″ L x 35.6″ W x 56.7″ H
- Weight: 155lbs
- Max User Weight Capacity: 275lbs
- Programming: 16 preset workouts
- Belt Size: 55“ L x 20” W
- Step-Up Height: N/A
Looking to make the most of your tight training quarters? The best folding treadmills allow you to raise and lower the running deck with ease, helping you regain some floor space after your workout. For the sub-$1,000 category, we feel the Schwinn 810 is one of the best options out there thanks to its SoftDrop hydraulic system that makes getting the tread belt in and out of storage less of a burden.
“This is one of the most graceful foldable treadmills I’ve used,” notes our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, who rated the overall footprint at 3.75 out of 5. “The gas shock slowly lowers the belt, eliminating the ‘slam’ you can experience with other treads. I also really like the added sense of safety, particularly for those with small children or pets cohabitating in your workout space.”
The Schwinn 810 is pretty bare-bones when it comes to tech, so it doesn’t classify as a “smart treadmill.” That said, there is Bluetooth connectivity for the integrated speakers, and the backlit LCD display provides clear readings for key metrics including your chosen program (of which there are 16 to choose from), distance, speed, incline, and calories burned. As such, we score the available tech at 3 out of 5.
Our tester also finds the adjustments to be intuitive and convenient, rating the adjustability at 4 out of 5 thanks to the large buttons set at both sides of the console for speed and incline. While these ranges — up to 10 miles per hour for speed and up to 10% for incline — may not lend themselves to high-intensity training, they can still be worthwhile for less taxing feats. “I also recommend this for walking, light jogging, and the occasional runs given the smaller 2.6 continuous horsepower motor,” our tester adds.
Lastly, the Schwinn 810 features SoftTrack deck cushioning, according to the brand, but our tester states, “It’s rather underwhelming. I wouldn’t recommend this tech for those with bad knees or joint pain.”
Read our full Schwinn 810 Treadmill Review.
Benefits of Treadmills Under $1,000
There are many different types of treadmills, but what they all have in common is the ability to stay active at home, get a jog in when the weather is foul, or take their running to new heights while watching Hallmark Christmas movies (even in the middle of summer). These machines can help you take your speed to new levels, manage your body weight, improve your resting heart rate, and increase your VO2 max. (3) Below are some of our favorite perks associated with the best treadmills available for less than $1,000.
- At-Home Training: According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer: “Home treadmills offer the opportunity to run and walk in the comfort of your own home. This can be particularly beneficial in situations in which walking and running outdoors isn’t safe, such as in bad weather or where there isn’t a pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Having a treadmill at home may encourage a person to exercise more frequently, too, which is almost always a good thing.”
- Approachable Price Point: Getting a high-quality cardio machine for less than $1,000 can also be more inviting for a wider array of athletes. Being able to train at your convenience without the need to shell out thousands of dollars for a more expensive treadmill can also give you room in your finances for other training must-haves or wants.
- Dynamic Programming: Treadmills under $1,000 typically feature preset workouts built into the console’s technology, but you can find a few profiles capable of streaming on-demand workouts either through integrated touchscreens or your own devices. “I wouldn’t call it a necessity, but it’s definitely a fun perk,” Capritto notes.
How Much Do Treadmills Under $1,000 Cost?
Naturally, treadmills under $1,000 cost under $1,000, right? However, if you’re really wanting to get into how much treadmills cost in this category, we’ve found that the average price lingers around $820. Read below to see the price comparisons of each profile featured in this guide.
Best Treadmill Under $1,000 Overall | Horizon 7.0 AT | $999 |
Best ProForm Treadmill Under $1,000 | ProForm Carbon TLX | $999 |
Best Running Treadmill Under $1000 | Sole F63 | $1,199.99 |
Best Incline Treadmill Under $1,000 | Horizon T101 | $999 |
Best Compact Treadmill Under $1,000 | Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 | $499.99 |
Best Under Desk Treadmill Under $1,000 | GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill | $299.95 |
Best Budget Treadmill Under $1,000 | XTERRA Fitness TR150 | $679.99 |
Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,000 | Schwinn 810 | $899 |
What to Consider Before Buying a Treadmill Under $1,000
It can be a tough task figuring out exactly what you want and how much you’re willing to spend on a treadmill. You may be looking for shock-absorbing decks, space-saving features, or even workout programs built into the treadmill. Before pulling the trigger on one of these budget treadmills, we’ve got a few key points you should consider.
Floor Space
Go into the toolbox and pull out the tape measure, because you need to know what space you’re working with before you even dream of purchasing a treadmill. We’ve given you the dimensions of each machine so that you can make an informed decision about what can fit. If space is tight, we’ve also highlighted folding options so that you can get your workout in, fold it up, and roll it away.
Motor Size
Buying a treadmill requires an understanding of the power provided in each available motor. The motors for treadmills in this price range hover around a general 2.5 to 3.0 horsepower. According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, “Look for CHP (continuous horsepower) of at least 1.75 to 2.5 for walking. For running, you’ll need a more powerful motor with 2.75 to 4.0 CHP.”
Top Speed
Taking into account your goals and ability will help you land on whether you need a treadmill built for speed. Options on our list range from around 7.5 miles per hour to 12 miles per hour. If you only want to use your treadmill for walking, having a juiced-up top speed can be less important. That said, if you’re looking to really hit some mile PRs, you’ll want to take a closer look at the treadmills that can keep up with your pace.
User Weight Capacity
Capritto states that the industry standard for treadmill weight capacity is 300 pounds. This can be a good metric to look for in treadmills under $1,000, though some profiles may be built from less durable materials to achieve that wallet-friendly price — we’ve seen some sub-$1,000 treadmills with listed user weight capacities as low as 220 pounds.
Be sure to take your body weight into consideration and opt for a silhouette that has a little breathing room between your weight and the machine’s limits. For athletes who require a more durable weight rating, we recommend expanding your budget to accommodate one of the best treadmills for heavy people.
Deck Size
Deck size might be a little confusing if you’ve never owned a treadmill before. Our general rule of thumb is that if you want to really run, you’ll want a treadmill deck with 60 inches of length.
Of course, there’s some wiggle room to this rule, especially for shorter athletes with smaller gaits — 50 inches to 55 inches might still work for runners in those scenarios.
Warranty
Having a robust warranty package can be great for extending the lifespan of your treadmill. While common treadmill maintenance can go a long way on its own, having the security of warranty coverages for the treadmill frame, motor, parts, and labor can help ensure your workout progress isn’t halted by a broken machine. Be sure to look for a warranty bundle that suits your preferences best — we’d recommend putting an emphasis on the frame and motor, as these components will see the most wear and tear over time.
[Related: Treadmill Warranty Guide]
Treadmills Under $1,000 FAQs
What’s the best treadmill under $1,000?
To answer this question, we’d need to know what you’re trying to accomplish with your at-home fitness. But at $999, the Horizon 7.0 AT is our choice for the best treadmill under $1,000, overall. With a generous 20-inch by 60-inch running deck, this choice is suitable for users of all heights. The 12-mile-per-hour max speed and 15% incline capabilities will give most runners the challenge they want.
Are treadmills under $1,000 worth it?
You don’t have to go big or go home when investing in the best cardio machines. That said, knowing what type of running you plan on doing will help you navigate your choices so you’re not disappointed. For runners, be sure to keep deck size, motor, and miles per hour on your radar as you peruse. Your purchase will be worth it if the treadmill you choose can keep up with you.
Which treadmill under $1,000 is best for home use?
Are you looking for a compact option that’ll fit in a tight space? Or looking to save your joints from the impact of pounding pavement, so you want a choice that’ll provide a cushioned run. The choices on our list were made with various needs as the focus, from treadmills for seniors to best treadmills to use under your desk. Depending on the use you anticipate for your treadmill, we’ve got a pick that’ll fit your needs.
References
- Chan, L., Chin, L. M. K., Kennedy, M., Woolstenhulme, J. G., Nathan, S. D., Weinstein, A. A., Connors, G., Weir, N. A., Drinkard, B., Lamberti, J., & Keyser, R. E. (2013). Benefits of intensive treadmill exercise training on cardiorespiratory function and quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Chest, 143(2), 333–343. https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.12-0993
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