Folding treadmills are a game-changer for home fitness, offering full workout capabilities without sacrificing precious space. Whether you live in an apartment or want a treadmill that tucks away neatly, today’s best folding models rival commercial gym equipment in performance.
This guide covers:
✔ Top 5 best folding treadmills for different needs
✔ Key features to consider before buying
✔ Space-saving benefits vs. non-folding models
✔ Answers to common buyer questions
Why Choose a Folding Treadmill?
Space Efficiency
✔ Vertical or horizontal fold options
✔ Saves 30-50% floor space when stored
Commercial-Grade Features
Modern folding treadmills now offer:
- 3.0+ HP motors
- 60″ running decks
- 15% incline/decline
Easy Mobility
✔ Transport wheels for moving
✔ Lightweight designs (under 200 lbs)
Top 5 Best Folding Treadmills of 2024
1. NordicTrack Commercial 1750
✅ Best Overall Folding Treadmill
✅ Key Features:
- 3.5 HP DurX Commercial Motor
- SmartAdjust™ 15% Incline/Decline
- 14″ HD Touchscreen with iFit
- SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™
2. Sole F80
✅ Best for Heavy Runners (300 lb capacity)
✅ Key Features:
- 3.5 HP Continuous Duty Motor
- Cushion Flex Whisper Deck™
- 10.1″ LCD Display
- Folds to 40″ x 35″ footprint
3. ProForm SMART Pro 2000
✅ Best Smart Treadmill on a Budget
✅ Key Features:
- 3.0 HP SMART™ Response Motor
- 0-12% Quick Incline
- 7″ Smart HD Touchscreen
- SpaceSaver® Design
4. XTERRA TR150
✅ Best Budget Folding Treadmill
✅ Key Features:
- 2.25 HP Motor (up to 10 mph)
- 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning
- Folds to 34″ x 61″
- 250 lb user capacity
5. Bowflex Treadmill 10
✅ Best for Interactive Training
✅ Key Features:
- 3.75 CHP Duros™ Motor
- JRNY® Adaptive Coaching
- 20″ x 60″ Tread Belt
- OneTouch™ Folding
Folding vs. Non-Folding Treadmills
| Feature | Folding Treadmills | Non-Folding Treadmills |
|---|---|---|
| Space Needed | 10-15 sq ft (folded) | 20-30 sq ft |
| Stability | Good (modern designs) | Excellent |
| Price | 500−500−3,000 | 1,000−1,000−5,000+ |
| Motor Power | Up to 4.0 HP | Up to 4.5 HP |
Best Choice For:
- Folding: Apartments, small homes, multi-use rooms
- Non-folding: Dedicated home gyms, heavy daily use
People Also Ask (FAQs)
1. Are folding treadmills as good as regular ones?
Modern folding treadmills like the NordicTrack 1750 now rival non-folding models with:
✔ Commercial-grade motors
✔ Advanced cushioning
✔ Full workout features
2. What’s the best folding treadmill for small spaces?
Our top compact picks:
🥇 ProForm SMART Pro 2000 (best vertical fold)
🥈 XTERRA TR150 (most affordable space-saver)
🥉 Sole F80 (best for narrow rooms)
3. How much space do you need for a folding treadmill?
When in use:
- Length: 70-80 inches
- Width: 30-35 inches
When folded: - Length: 40-60 inches
- Width: 30-35 inches
4. Can heavy people use folding treadmills?
Yes! These support 300+ lbs:
✔ Sole F80 (350 lb capacity)
✔ NordicTrack 1750 (300 lb)
✔ Bowflex T10 (300 lb)
5. How do you move a folding treadmill?
- Unplug and fold
- Engage transport wheels
- Tilt and roll slowly
- Have 2 people for stairs
Final Verdict: Best Folding Treadmill
- Best Overall: NordicTrack 1750
- Best for Heavy Users: Sole F80
- Best Smart Features: Bowflex T10
- Best Budget: XTERRA TR150
- Best Space-Saver: ProForm SMART Pro 2000
Where to Buy?
- Direct from Brands (Best warranties)
- Amazon (Fast shipping)
- Costco/Best Buy (In-store testing)
Conclusion
Today’s best folding treadmills prove you don’t need a massive home gym for professional-grade workouts. With space-saving designs, powerful motors, and advanced tech, these models let you run, walk, and train effectively in any home.
Ready to transform your fitness space? Any of our top 5 picks will deliver big performance in a compact package!
Check more
- Best Exercise Equipment for Seniors in 2025: Stay Active, Strong & Healthy at Any Age
- Best Exercise Bikes of 2025: Ultimate Guide for Home Fitness