For those who don’t have the time for a gym workout, treadmills are a great way to stay in shape. We’re not the only ones to say this; the National Center for Biotechnology Information agrees!
Whether your goal is to lose weight or maintain fitness, treadmills help you do that from the comfort of your own home. Here are our best treadmill picks to make your choice easier!
Best Treadmills In UK [2021]
There is no shortage of treadmills available in the market, but that’s just what makes choosing one so confusing.
Well, we’ve put together a list of the five best treadmills to help you out! So take your time going through each treadmill’s features, pros, and cons, before deciding which one is for you.
1. Branx Fitness 'Elite Runner Pro' Treadmill
Pros
- The machine has a large running track that suits taller users.
- The treadmill has a high top speed for actual running.
- It has quite a variety with 24 in-built programs.
- It is super easy to assemble.
- It operates relatively noiselessly.
- It can support quite a bit of weight.
- It comes with two bottle holders.
Cons
- Users cannot save program changes.
- The output from the embedded speakers is a little low.
- The cooling fans on the machine are not too powerful.
The Branx Elite Runner Pro Treadmill is a compact machine suitable for home and garage gyms. Its large deck space of 140x40cm comfortably accommodates taller users, too. The treadmill is already sturdy and durable but comes with a two-year part and labor warranty to boot.
The machine offers a top speed of 21km/h, so it does not limit users to a light jog. Combine that with its 22-level auto incline feature, and you get a real high-intensity workout session. The dual shock absorption function of the treadmill ensures workout safety by reducing pressure on the knees and joints.
The Branx Elite Runner Pro Treadmill integrates a large 6″ LCD screen and in-built speakers. Its Bluetooth function lets you connect the machine to your GymFit app so you can choose from worldwide trails and terrains.
The small size of the treadmill and its four wheels add to portability. It also equips a German-made hydraulic suspension that slowly and safely lowers the running track to the floor during unfolding. Despite its small size, it is capable of supporting a weight of up to 160 kg. With that, the machine’s powerful 6.5HP motor sustains all levels of training intensity.
Features
- Top Speed: 21km/h
- LCD Screen: 6″ LCD Monitor with built-in speaker
- Running Deck: 140x48cm
- 22-level Auto Incline: Allows high-intensity training
- 24 Programs: Includes Bluetooth integration
- Platform: Slow-drop for safe unfolding
- Holders: 2 Bottle Holders
- Other Features: BMI-mapping
Final Verdict
The Branx Elite Runner Pro has all the features that make it worth its price. It is perfect for those looking to get in an actual run during the day. Not to mention, it supports all body types in users.
Why Is This Our Number #1 Product?
When you consider the incredible features and performance this treadmill offers, its high price makes a lot of sense. You will find a lot of treadmills in the market, but none as accommodating as this one. The treadmill manages to be compact and sturdy at the same time, putting it at the top of our list.
2. Branx Fitness 'Cardio Pro' Treadmill
Pros
- The treadmill is compact.
- The LCD screen provides detailed reports of workouts.
- It has a large-size running deck.
- The treadmill is easy to fold up.
- It comes with shock-absorption technology.
Cons
- The machine is a little heavy for its size at around 76 kg.
- It does not have a pause button on workouts.
The Branx Cardio Pro Treadmill is a medium-to-high intensity treadmill, making it ideal for both workout newbies and pros. Programmed with 12 different running plans, you can easily choose a preferred workout intensity. The machine’s 0-20 incline function will be handy when upping training levels.
The treadmill is compact, saving quite a bit of room for users. It is easy to store as you can fold it up neatly and has wheels for easy transportation. Despite its small size, this treadmill delivers on performance, allowing you to run at speeds of 17km/hr.
Its LCD screen and LAP system help track progress, reporting speed, distance, time, and more. The Branx Cardio Pro equips a powerful 3.5CPH power motor that has a decent 6HP. So it is more than capable of sustaining both weight and speed.
It provides ample running space with its 125x45cm track. The treadmill integrates dual shock technology to reduce the impact on the knees and joints. So training is comfortable and safe with reduced risk of injuries.
The machine includes both Bluetooth technology and GymFit. So you can choose from among 170 global trails and tours and workout with trainers through over 50 separate programs.
Features
- Top Speed: 17.5km/h
- Running Deck: 125x45cm
- Motor: 3.5CPH power motor/6HP peak
- User Weight: Maximum of 130 kg.
- LCD Screen: 5.5″ easy-to-read screen
- 0-20 Level Auto Incline: Allows for hill running
- 12 Programs: Includes Bluetooth integration
Final Verdict
The treadmill offers great value for its price. From features to performance, it has everything you could need for a great workout. Another bonus to it being, its small footprint.
Why Is This Our Number #2 Product?
The Branx Cardio Pro Treadmill equips all the features to deliver the best performance. Add in its compact size and wheels for movability, and it is easily one of the best in the market. The machine more than shows why it deserves to be among the highest-rated on the list.
3. CITYSPORTS Electric Walking Treadmill
Pros
- The treadmill is easy to slide under a desk or bed for storage.
- Its LCD screen is easy to read while walking.
- It comes with a child-lock feature.
- The machine is suitable for people of all age groups.
- It is very cost-effective and affordable.
Cons
- It is not suitable for high-intensity workouts.
- The remote controls may beep too frequently.
- It cannot support a lot of weight.
The CITYSPORTS Electric Walking Treadmill combines three qualities several users look for in treadmills: performance, easy storage, and affordability. As this is a walking treadmill, the speed settings range from 1-6 km. The lower speed settings are more accommodating of the elderly as well as those with injuries or conditions.
The machine is super lightweight, weighing in at 23.9 kg. Besides, it integrates wheels to add to portability. That means it is super easy to store. You can even place it under your desk at work and slide it out when you need a quick workout.
The CITYSPORTS Treadmill has an in-built console screen that gives you information on speed, time, calories burnt, and more. The details are large enough for users to read with ease as they walk or jog. Besides, it also equips Bluetooth so you can connect it to your music system.
The running deck is a fair 108×43 cm and has a non-slip grip technology. The treadmill is relatively silent when working, which is always a plus. The packing includes the remote control for speed and a bottle of lubrication oil to extend the machine’s life.
Features
- Dimensions: 134x590x12.5 cm
- Running Deck: 43×108 cm
- User Weight: Maximum of 110 kg.
- Integrated Features: Bluetooth and LCD screen
- Deck Material: Textured for a non-slip grip
- Portability: Has wheels for sliding
Final Verdict
If you want to get in a workout without breaking the bank, this machine is the one for you. Despite being a budget-friendly option, this treadmill has all the features that will keep you in shape. Besides performance, it delivers on unmissable qualities like easy storage and portability.
Why Is This Our Number #3 Product?
The CITYSPORTS Electric Walking Treadmill delivers on all fronts and suits all people. Not only is this a pocket-friendly option, but it also has a ton of rave reviews. Rest assured, this one, with its features, performance, and benefits, deserves to be in our top three picks.
4. JLL T350 Digital Treadmill
The JLL T350 Treadmill is well-deserving of the word ‘digital’ in its name. The machine equips Bluetooth, a USB port, an AUX port, and a 5″ LCD screen. When you consider all the features it incorporates, its price seems shockingly mid-range.
Despite being a bigger model, it weighs only 59 kgs. Add in its wheels and foldability, and the product becomes easy to store. It provides a decent running deck of 121×41 cm.
The T350 Treadmill also comes with 20 levels of incline and a speed of 18km/h. With that, you can get in quite the workout session. The machine features long arms to add to safety and support a weight of up to 120 kg.
Features
- Top Speed: 18km/h
- LCD Screen: 5″ LCD Monitor
- Running Deck: 121×41 cm
- 20-level Auto Incline: Ideal for intense workouts
- User Weight: Maximum of 120 kg.
- Motor: 4.5HP
- Deck Surface: Cushioned for less impact
Final Verdict
For a mid-range product, this treadmill packs in quite the punch. It equips a lot of features that you will not find in other machines. Not to mention, it delivers on performance too and has people gushing about it.
Why Is This Our Number #4 Product?
The T350 delivers on unique features, performance, durability, and more. Despite being one of the more unique treadmills on the list, it has to get number four. A few drawbacks, like its bulky size, rattly form, and confusing assembly process, bring it down.
5. CITYSPORTS Motorised Treadmill
Pros
- The treadmill fits into an office space.
- It has shock absorption tech to cushion the knees and joints.
- Its low speeds allow you to perform other activities as you workout.
- It produces a low level of noise.
- The LED monitor is easy to read while standing.
- It is compact and portable.
Cons
- Some users may need time to adjust to the no rails design.
- It does not permit going beyond a light jog.
- The treadmill cable is only 2m long.
The CITYSPORTS Motorized Treadmill is another one that offers easy storage. Along with that, it has a unique design without side rails to make for a super sleek machine. That means you can also store it in a convenient upright position.
Despite its compact style, it offers a decent running deck of 115×41 cm. The machine operates at a relatively noiseless level, so you can also have it in your office. It is a super lightweight machine, weighing only 26.2 kg., offering a lot of portability.
The treadmill comes with a smart shock absorption feature for reduced chances of injuries. Users can program their preferred workouts on the treadmill. Besides that, it also has both warm-up and cool-down options.
Features
- Motor: 500w and 1.5HP
- Running Deck: 115×41 cm
- User Weight: 100 kg.
- Screen: LED Monitor
- Other Features: Shock Absorption Technology
Final Verdict
For those who want a compact treadmill that still performs well, this is the one. The near-silent running of the machine allows you to enjoy your shows and music at a comfortable volume. It may not have very high speeds, but it does a fine job of helping you lose weight and stay fit.
Why Is This Our Number #5 Product?
The CITYSPORTS Motorized Treadmill is a quality machine and one of the more affordable ones on the list. That said, it does not incorporate as many features as the others, putting it lower on the list. Nevertheless, it makes up for it with features like size, portability, and shock absorption technology.
Best Treadmill: Buying Guide
With the best treadmill, you can significantly lose weight if you incorporate a treadmill fitness routine into your daily life. While hunting for the best treadmill, you need to consider certain crucial factors that can influence your decision-making process. Let’s discuss more in this buying guide.
Treadmill Size and Workout Space
Does your room have enough space to accommodate a treadmill? To save your time and money, measure the area where you plan to place your treadmill. In case you are looking for a folding treadmill, make sure you measure the length, width, and height of the area you need for storage.
Besides, it would be best if you check the overall running space. You can do so by looking at the treadmill belt size. It also has a significant impact on treadmill footprint. Generally, a 20-inch wide treadmill belt is recommended for walkers and 22 inches for runners.
As far as length is concerned, 55 inches are sufficient for runners, 60 inches for 6-inch tall runners, and 50 inches for walkers. After figuring out the room size, you can move on to the treadmill size. Folding treadmills are shorter but require space to use, and Standard treadmills are usually three-inch wide and seven inches long.
Motor
The motor is another crucial factor to consider while purchasing a treadmill as it is essential to power the treadmill track. Continuous Horsepower or Horsepower is used to describe the treadmill motor power. Continuous Horsepower is important as it helps to determine the power motor can produce continuously rather than at peak times.
Home treadmills have CHP or Continuous Horsepower around 2.25-4.25 CHP. There are other treadmills with 5.0 CHP or 1.5 CHP motors, but they are not commonly available in the market.
The power your treadmill motor requires depends highly on what type of exercise you perform and the weight of your body. For those who are 2000 pounds or above, you should look for treadmills with below mentioned HP motor:
- Walking: Treadmill with 2.0 or above
- Running: Treadmill with 3.0 CHP or above
- Jogging: Treadmill with 2.5 CHP or above
The durability of Tread Belt
While considering a tread belt, you need to look out for three factors, which include lubrication, metal rollers, and thickness.
In terms of thickness, a four-ply or two-ply tread belt is highly durable in comparison to the single-layered tread belt. Additionally, thick belts do not make noise while in operation. Most premium quality treadmills come with two or four-ply tracks.
Next is the metal roller, which is required to drive the track. It will help if you look for rollers that have large diameters. They do not put stress on the motor of the treadmill and also increase the lifespan of the tread belt.
Lastly, lubrication helps the smooth performance of the treadmill. The maintenance-free treadmill tracks are usually lubricated with silicon or some other lubricant.
Track Cushioning
If you are a beginner, there are chances that you might get injured while running or walking on a treadmill. That’s why track cushioning is important as they protect the joint from exercise impacts. With cushioned tracks, the impact is reduced to about 15 to 40 percent.
Track Cushioning also helps to promote the runner’s stamina by reducing the outside impact on their body. You can find some treadmills that come with adjustable cushioning, enabling runners to manage the support level. Some advanced treadmill decks feature differential cushioning. There, you will receive firm support while pushing as well as during landing.
Manual or Auto Incline?
In the beginning, it isn’t easy to use the treadmill. But, as soon as you start practicing, you will get accustomed to the function and would like to further your workout intensity. You can do so by increasing the speed. However, there is another method to change the incline. With a higher slope, you can enjoy and perform a high-intensity workout.
The next thing you need to consider whether go for the manual incline or automatic incline. Manual incline requires manually adjusting the inclination. On the other hand, the automatic incline changes the inclination with one touch of a button automatically.
Ease of Use
The treadmill should be easy to use and equipped with a simple interface that even a beginner can use all the settings effectively. For the ease of use factor, you need to consider the following factors.
If your treadmill comes with an inbuilt monitor, it should be placed at your eye-level. Your neck should not strain from looking down and then up to watch the screen while you are running.
In contrast, a treadmill that doesn’t include in-built monitors should have space where you can place your tablet or phone. You can listen to songs or watch your favorite show while workout out. But, make sure that the area is stable enough to hold your tablet or phone.
Whenever you have to change the speed or feel the need to incline, you should be able to do it instantly. Treadmill buttons should be easy to press to make immediate changes while you work out. Moreover, the speed transitions should be smooth.
Technology Features
A treadmill that comes with technological features is an investment that you will not regret in the future. Always look for the tread equipped with all the safety features to provide you with an excellent running experience.
For that, your treadmill should have large touch screens, heart rate monitoring, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, and enhanced running settings. With such features, you will enjoy working out on your treadmill regularly and will work harder to achieve your fitness goals.
Safety Features
Your treadmill should have an auto-stop feature for added security. If you have children or pets in your home, the auto-stop feature will be highly beneficial. You can control the feature with the key.
As you exercise, the key is connected with your body. By chance, if you fall off the treadmill, the key will disconnect, and the treadmill will stop working. Furthermore, you can also remove the key after completing the workout session to avoid any accidents or injuries due to treadmill initiation.
FAQs
What are the Safety Precautions You Should take While Using a Treadmill?
Just like any other exercise equipment, you should be careful while using the machine to avoid accidental injuries. Today, the treadmill comes with advanced features that, if you are in an unbalanced position, will stop the machine. However, safety tips can never harm you.
Always look forward while running on the treadmill. It will help you stay focused and maintain balance. You should start your exercise at a low speed and then gradually increase it. Furthermore, you should not use the handrails as they can put a strain on your elbows and shoulders.
You need to be careful while running at high speed. Either incline or increase the speed, do not do both as it is difficult to balance at high speeds with a steep incline. Besides, always step out of the track when it has stopped completely; otherwise, it is dangerous. Apart from that, memorize all the emergency buttons to use them immediately whenever required.
How Does Warranty Determine the Durability of the Treadmill?
The manufacturer warranty is proof of the durability and reliability of the treadmill. The warranty of the treadmill usually includes labor, parts, motor, and frame.
- Labour: Most treadmill manufacturers offer 1-2 years of labor warranty. Also, it is not available on lower priced treadmills.
- Parts: The warranty for parts in a treadmill varies from zero to a 90-day warranty on budgeted treadmills. A slight increase in price gets one-year parts warranty on the treadmills.
- Motor: Typically, treadmills offer lifetime guarantees on the motor. Some lower-priced treadmills have offered a 2-25 years motor warranty.
- Frame: Both expensive, and some budget treadmills have a lifetime frame warranty.
How to Maintain Your Treadmill for Long-Lasting Use?
A treadmill is a big investment; therefore, it requires some routine maintenance to keep it in excellent working conditions for a longer period. It seems like a challenging task, but you only need to follow three simple steps. Let’s see how you can do it.
Align The Tread Belt at the center
You need to realign the tread belt after every use. Your treadmill belt tends to move naturally either because of stretching or your foot striking the deck.
The treadmill comes with holes at the deck’s end where you can find the Allen bolt head. If you move it, you can change the back roller that keeps the belt in place. Rotate the bolt with small movements to adjust the belt. Also, ensure that there is space left on the belt’s side after adjusting.
Lubricating the Treadmill Belt
Mostly, treadmill belts are lubricated with silicone. Lubricating the belt will enhance the performance so that you can work it out smoothly. To lubricate the belt, turn off the treadmill and use only pure silicon. Other materials can result in wear and tear of the belt.
You can use two methods to lubricate the belt. First, you can apply silicon from the spray bottle directly. To spread the silicon beneath the belt, you can use a sponge.
The second method involves using a lubricating stick that is equipped with a sponge pad and a handle. Hold the belt and insert the stick under the belt to lubricate the belt. Repeat the process on both sides of the belt.
Cleaning the Motor Cover
A treadmill with an open floor and open back can result in a clogged up motor with debris, hair, and dust. If you don’t clean the motor area, your treadmill will not last for a long time. It is a straightforward process.
Unbolt the screws and dust or vacuum underneath the motor cover to clean everything. However, do not use any cleaning liquid that could interfere with the processing of the machine. You should clean the motor twice a month.
Which Treadmill Extras are Useful for the Treadmill and Your Workout Routine?
The standard treadmill comes with basic features of speed variation, incline options, or other features. However, you can find numerous other treadmill extras that can enhance your workout sessions. Let’s take a look.
- Automated Features: Treadmills boasts automated features like auto-breeze to set the speed of the fan according to the workout intensity.
- Workout Programs: Some treadmills have integrated workout programs to push you to your limit and allowing someone else to supervise your workout.
- Wireless Heart Rate Monitoring: Due to advanced technology, many manufacturers have added wireless heart rate monitoring abilities, which come as an adjustable chest strap. It monitors and displays accurate readings.
- Passport Virtual Active: The passport player functions along with your television and create a scenic environment with immersing sounds. As the speed of your workout changes, the audio and video will also change.
- Entertainment Options: Most people do not enjoy working out without some music or other entertainment options. Some budget treadmills come with an audio jack and speakers. While some others also include touchscreen consoles to change the music or other settings easily.
- iFit: With iFit, you can enjoy various customized workouts with a monthly membership. It is also free with some particular brand treadmills. In addition to access to thousands of workout videos, you can use iFit Google Maps to experience real-time walking through the street on the Google Map.
How to Set Your Budget to Purchase the Best Treadmill?
It is a well-known fact that you should only start looking for a treadmill after you have set the budget. You do not want that your selected treadmill doesn’t fall under your budget. You can find a reliable treadmill between the $500 to $700 range with ten mph of maximum speed.
The treadmill range above $1000 offers 12 mph of maximum speed and has patented cushioning technology. Also, they are ideal for joggers and walkers. If you go above the price range, they come with more advanced features with inbuilt workout sessions, and much more. It depends on your budget, how much can you spend on a treadmill.