With our ever busy schedules, it is near impossible to find time to work out. We no longer have time to pass by the gym for a good and long workout. This is where treadmills come into play. These machines allow a user to work out from the comfort of their homes as they catch up with their favorite show.

Table of contents

What is a Treadmill?

A treadmill is an exercise device that is used for walking, jogging, or running while staying in the same place. These devices harness electricity to work. They provide a user with a moving platform that uses a conveyor belt. The belt moves to the rear at a rate that is ideal for walking or running – keep in mind that speed for running or walking varies from one device to another.

Cheaper versions move only when a walker pushes the belt with their feet (also known as manual treadmills) while more expensive versions use an electric motor. These machines are one of the largest selling exercise equipment.

Top 10 Best Cheap Treadmill In 2020 – List

In this guide, we have compiled a list of our top 10 best treadmills for home use. Treadmills provide an excellent low impact method for jogging and walking. These exercises are still considered to have profound benefits to a human body. They benefit cardiovascular exercises for people of all body types, ages, and fitness levels. Walking and jogging have numerous physical benefits for our lugs, heath, and circulatory system. They also increase muscle tone and help burn fat calories.

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You will be able to get a great workout regardless of weather conditions from the comfort and safety of your home. After countless research, we have found that these below-mentioned treadmills are best cheap machines for home use. We have selected them based on price, durability, key features, and ease of use. Our list ranges from devices that cost $700 and below up to some that cost under $1500.

10. LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Treadmill – Review

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LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 comes inclusive of a built-in workstation desk to allow you to work as you exercise. This model is ideal for home use – especially if your job is demanding and you need to work for a couple of hours from home.

LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 features a 2.25 hp motor which can reach speeds of up to 4 miles per hour. You will be able to walk slow or at a fast pace for hours on end as you continue to work. If you work from home, then this is just what you need.

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LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Treadmill Desk

LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 comes with a built in Bluetooth that allows you to share your workout, an adjustable desk height for more convenient working posture. Treadmill desk surface measure at 38’’ x 29’’ and can easily accommodate a computer monitor, keyboard, phone, laptop, and other equipment you might need for work. No longer do you have to sit at a desk all day; improve your posture, lose weight, and increase your muscle tone as you work out and work away on your LifeSpan TR1200-DT5.

9. Sole F85 Treadmill – Review

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Sole F80 is a fantastic home workout machine that is well known worldwide. This model can be found in major hotels due to its durability. It features a 3.5 horsepower motor that can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour with deck incline between 0 and 15 percent.

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Sole F85 Folding Home Treadmill

Other key features include cushion Flex shock-absorption system that reduces the impact on your feet, ankles, hips, and knees. You will also have access to an integrated stereo speaker system that you can use to listen to your iPod or MP3 player as you exercise. Sole F80 includes a 9.0 inches LCD display that allows you to monitor your speed, time, distance, calories, heart rate, pace, and incline.

You can use the 6 automatic programs, 2 customized, or use the 2 heart rate target programs. All in all, Sole F80 is yet another quality and a highly durable machine that is still affordable yet performs wonderfully.

8. LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i Treadmill – Review

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LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i is a highly rated heavy duty treadmill that is ideal for home use. It comes with a built-in heart rate monitor and features a 2.75 hp motor that can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour with inclines between 0 to 15 percent.

LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i has a deck surface area of 20’’ x 56’’ that is ideal for walking, jogging, or running. This deck is able to support weights of up to 350 pounds. It includes a folding frame with an automatic EZ Drop system, backlit LCD screen that monitors your heart rate, distance, steps, speed, calories, and incline.

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LifeSpan TR3000i Folding Treadmill

Other features include built-in speakers and headphone port, built-in cooling fan, and an automatic pause belt movement that kicks in 20 seconds after you step away from deck. Overall, if you are able to save up a bit more, we would recommend that you purchase this model.

7. LifeSpan Fitness TR3000e Treadmill – Review

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LifeSpan Fitness TR3000e is a bit pricy. However, with this price, you will have access to many quality features which will help you stay in shape and increase overall body health. This model is LifeSpan’s first treadmill to fold up electronically from a single push of a button.

LifeSpan Fitness TR3000e is ideal for jogging, running, or walking. Its 2.75 horsepower motor can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour with inclines between 0 to 15 percent.

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LifeSpan TR3000e Electric Folding Treadmill

One highly impressive feature (aside from its eFold feature) is its built-in heart monitor program. This program allows you to keep your heart rate constant as your machine adjusts speed and incline for you!

LifeSpan Fitness TR3000e’s deck measures in at 20’’ x 56’’, making it an ideal area for managing your weight, toning your muscles, and improving your overall health.

6. ProForm Power 995i Treadmill – Review

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Our last entry for home workout machine is ProForm Power 995i. This model’s 3.0hp motor performs in a smooth and quiet way that will not disrupt your neighbors. It can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour with inclines between 0 up to 15 percent.

ProForm Power 995i folds up into a compact size that is easy to store. You will have access to a running deck of 20’’ x 60’’. This machine comes with 30 workout programs. ProForm Power 995i is fitted with iFit Enabled Technology that allows you access to unlimited workouts which are designed by certified personal trainers.

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ProForm PFTL99715 Power 995i Exercise Treadmill, Graphite, Large

Other key features include Global Google Maps Routes, QuickSpeeds buttons for quick adjustments and a console display that shows you information such as heart rate, power in watts, speed, distance, your pace, and calories burned.

5. LifeSpan TR1200i Treadmill – Review

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LifeSpan TR1200i is another quality and highly durable medium duty device. It is perfect for walking, jogging, or running. This machine features a 2.5hp motor that can reach speeds of up to 11 miles per hour. It can also incline between 0 (flat) to a 15 percent grade.

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LifeSpan TR1200i Folding Treadmill

LifeSpan TR1200i’s deck area measures in at 20’’ x 56’’. Its deck suspension can support persons weighing up to 300 pounds. This model includes a backlit LCD screen that tracks time, calories, distance, steps, incline, and heart rate. Other key features include pulse grip heart rate monitoring and 21 workout programs.

4. Xterra Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill – Review

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Xterra Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill is a mid-range level device. It comes with a 3.0hp motor that operates in a smooth and quiet manner. Its motor can reach speeds of up to 122 miles per hour with incline between 0 to 15 percent.

Xterra Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill folds up into a compact size that is easy to store. It comes with a Lift Assist folding deck with hydraulics lift system to help you raise or lower its deck. Its cushioned deck area measures at 20’’ x 60’’ and is ideal for running, jogging, or walking.

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Xterra Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill, Black

Xterra Fitness TR6.6 Treadmill comprises of 13 workout programs including manual, 8 presets, 2 users, and 2 heart rate programs. Finally, this model comes fitted with a remote control that is located on your handlebars. Here, you will be able to adjust speed and incline by simply pushing on allocated buttons.

3. Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill – Review

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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 is our final top device under $700. It’s a good entry level machine that runs in a quiet and smooth manner. This model features a 2.2hp motor that has the ability to reach speeds up to 10 miles per hour.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 can manually incline to three positions with maximum incline angle of 12 degrees. Storage is no problem as your machine folds up into a compact size. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400’s deck area is 15.75’’ x 48.8’’. This running area is ideal for shorter or medium persons. This model comes with a soft drop system that will assist you when opening up your tread-mill.

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Sunny Health & Fitness Treadmill

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400’s console features heart rate monitor, distance, speed, calories, and time and comes inclusive of 9 programming options to help you burn fat and lose weight.

2. Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill – Review

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Weslo Cadence G 5.9 is yet another good low priced entry level machine. It features a 2.25hp motor which operates in a quiet and incredibly smooth manner. This motor can reach speeds of up to 10 miles per hour. Weslo Cadence G 5.9 can manually incline to two positions – 1.5 perfect and 6 percent.

When it comes to storage, you need not worry as Weslo Cadence G 5.9 folds up. Deck area is 16’’ x 50’’ and is ideal for light jogging and walking. This model is perfect for shorter or medium height individuals.

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Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill

Other key features include easy Pulse heart rate monitor, blue LCD screen that tracks speed, distance, time, calories, and pulse, and comfort cell cushioning that reduces impact on your joints and increases overall comfort. Weslo Cadence G 5.9 comes inclusive of 6 programming options that help you lose weight, burn fat, and build muscle tone. Yet another quality model that is highly affordable.

1. Horizon Fitness T101-4 Treadmill – Review

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Horizon Fitness T101-4 is a perfect choice for entry level. This model operates in a quiet and smooth manner. Horizon Fitness T101-4 features a 2.25hp motor that has the capabilities of reaching speeds up to 10 miles per hour – with incline between 0 to a 10 percent grade.

Since Horizon Fitness T101-4 is a fold up, you will have no problems when it comes to storage. Its FeatherLIGHT lift comprises of two hydraulic shocks that assist you when it comes to lowering and lifting its deck.

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Horizon Fitness T101-4 Folding Home Treadmill

Deck area is 20’’ x 55’’ – this is a large enough space that can be used for running, walking, or jogging. Other key features include Sonic surround system speakers with MP3 compatibility, water bottle holder, reading rack, pulse-grip heart rate monitoring, and a COOLfit workout fan that will keep you cool during your workout session.

Horizon Fitness T101-4’s console has a top-of-the-line 4.5’’ LCD that will help you monitor your time and goals. Finally, it comes with 30 programs including steps, distance, manual, intervals, and many more. Overall, Horizon Fitness T101-4 is our number one pick as it is durable, easy to use, comprises of many key features that are highly beneficial, and it’s quite affordable.

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Treadmill – Buyer’s Guideline

History of Treadmills

Treadwheels were first introduced in the late first century AD by Roman Empire. They were used to lift heavier weight – men would walk within a wheel and produce power needed to lift heavy weights. In 1800’s, these machines were modified to horse treadmills. Instead of human walking on a wheel, horses replaced them as they had more pulling power.

Types of Treadmills

Punishment Tread-mills

In 1818, Sir William Cubitt, son of a miller invented a machine that required prisoners muscle power to produce useful work. This machine worked by requiring the prisoners to step upwards – same as walking up an endless staircase. Those punished would hold on to a horizontal handrail for stability and walk for hours on end as punishment.

Treadmills for Power

Other types documented were machines used as a power source, which originated approximately 4000 years ago. They primary use was to lift heavy buckets of water. This innovation later progressed to creating rotary grain mills, to pump water, and to power dough-kneading machines and bellows.

Tread for Exercise

The first consumer tread-mill for home use was developed by William Staub, a mechanic engineer. He developed this ingenious device after he read Aerobics, by Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper in 1968. Staub’s first development was called The PaceMaster 600, which he created for his own home use. Staub then sent a prototype to Cooper, who found its first customers. Staub began producing first home tread-mills at his plant in Clifton, New Jersey, before moving production to Little Falls, New Jersey.

Parts of a Treadmill

Before you initiate your treadmill purchase, it is best you first understand main components of your machine and which parts you should focus on. Many new model comprise of tons of features. However, there are some features to might need more than others. For example; you might not need a model with a heart rate monitor if you already own one.

A treadmill is made up of the following main components:

A moving belt and deck

Flywheel and rollers

A motor

A deck

Frame and handrails

Some might include a console

Belt and Deck

Belt and deck size are very important if you are planning on running or jogging on your machine. If your main purpose is to walk, then size is not that important. If you plan to run or jog, then you should look out for models with a wider and longer belt and deck. This way, you will have adequate space to move about. Extra width allows you to sway a bit without you hitting into your frame and longer length allows you to run with long strides without fear of falling off of your treadmill.

Flywheel and Rollers

These are the components that make your belt move smoothly.

Motor

One thing to look out for is motor power. When machine lists 2.5hp, this means that 2.5horsepower is the capacity horsepower that specific version will reach. Higher horsepower, just as a car or other moving devices means that your machine can have produce greater speed.

Frame and Rails

There are two different types of frame materials that come with standard treadmills: steel and aluminum frames. Aluminum frames hold up better and are more durable than steel. If you are close to weight capacity of that specific version, then you should definitely consider an aluminum frame as it is stronger and long lasting.

Rails are used for stability when starting or stopping your device, or to monitor your heart rate (if that specific model is equipped with a grip heart monitor. Rails are not meant to be held the entire time. Look out for models with comfortable and easy to reach rails.

Console

This is where your machine displays activities such as heart rate, calories burned, distance covered, incline and speed that you are running or walking, and how much longer your workout is.

How to Choose the Right Treadmill for you

Just as everything else we purchase, it is important to know what to look out for so that you are able to choose wisely and maximize your investment.

Educate yourself

It would be pointless to go shopping if you haven’t the foggiest of what your goals are and what features you should look out for. Learn as much as you can about these machines beforehand. This way, you will be able to ask hard and relevant questions.

Set a budget

How much are you willing to spend? Always start shopping with a set price range. This way, you will not be tempted to purchase a model that is above your set budget. Note: Stick to your budget no matter what!

Consider your goals

What are your main needs? Do you simply want a model that you can walk on or do you want one to use for running as well? These questions will determine how long your deck should be and what horsepower you should look out for.

Research Online

Now that you know why you want this machine, start shopping online to find equipment that interest you. Look for top rated brands through product reviews or rating websites. Also, remember to read past customer reviews as they are unbiased and look out for treadmills for sale.

Find where you can purchase that equipment

Now that you have narrowed down the search to 3 best devices that suit your needs and are within your price range, it is time to look for retail stores and fitness retailers that stock that specific model.

Test the machine

Always test your machine before buying. This way, a sales agent can help you learn how to use control settings, etc. Add inclines, use different programs, or take a jog to test that machine out. Do not be hesitant to spend 15 or even 30 minutes testing it out as this is a big investment that you will use for years to come.

Check Warranty

A quality unit is a long-term investment that, with regular use, will require service at some point. When it comes to treadmills, look for a warranty that provides at least 1 year of labor and a minimum of 1 -3 years coverage on parts. Be sure your warranty includes:

Motor

Deck and belt

Electronics

Our Last Word

Treadmills have countless benefits to a human body such as;

They help users lose fat

Help with cardiovascular health

Help tone muscles

When it comes to choosing best cheap treadmill for home use, it is best to always do your research first. This way, you will know what features matter more to you and which ones you can live without. Our comprehensive list ranges from cheap models that can be bought for under $500 to slightly expensive models that are under $1500. If you have any questions regarding any mentioned device, do not hesitate to comment below and we shall get back to you as soon as possible.

References

https://www.lifefitness.com/blog/posts/the-history-of-the-treadmill#

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/treadmills/buying-guide.htm

http://www.treadmillreviews.ca/treadmill-buyers-guide/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treadmill