Why It's Important to Find a Treadmill That Folds Up

A treadmill can help you meet your goals, whether you're preparing for a race or just want to squeeze in a quick workout. It's important to choose a treadmill that folds to make space.

To fold a treadmill, simply lift the deck toward the display. Then, carefully close the latch knob to ensure it is secured.

Compact Design

Foldable treadmills can be compact enough to fit under a bed or into a closet when not in use yet still provide plenty of running space. They are generally less expensive than those that do not fold and can aid in keeping you active on days where the weather is bad or when you have a busy schedule.

Consider your fitness goals and how you plan to utilize the treadmill. Some treadmills are designed for walking, whereas others allow light jogging or even short runs. If you're planning to perform training that involves running or higher speeds, it's essential to determine the treadmill's speed range and motor size prior to buying.

Non-folding treadmills tend to be heavier, which makes them stay stable even at speeds of high. They can also be less stable, particularly if used by runners who test themselves to the max. Look for a folding treadmill with safety features such as an emergency stop button that will ensure you can easily shut it down if you lose control.

Pick a treadmill with an efficient motor, and a deck that is large should you decide to purchase a best folding treadmill model that is safe for runners. Generally speaking, a 2.5 horsepower motor is enough for casual joggers and occasional sprinters, but serious runners should look for at least 3.5 horsepower to ensure that they are able to run comfortably at high speeds. Find a treadmill folded up that has built-in cushions that reduce the force of your knees so that you can train for longer periods without fear of injury.

Convenient Storage

If you live in a cramped space, you must be able of folding your treadmill when it's not being used. The majority of treadmills that fold have wheels and can easily be rolled away from the area where you exercise to make space for other activities, for instance, when your kids return from school or when you are expecting guests to dinner later on. Non-folding models typically require more space because they are designed to be permanent fixtures in your home.

Although many treadmills that fold up are made for smaller spaces, they don't skimp on features or performance. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill, for instance, folds quickly with the help of an exclusive EasyLift mechanism. This treadmill also boasts an 3.5 CHP motor. It also has both a 15% incline and a 3 percent decline to help up your cardio intensity.

Another alternative is the SF T7632 folding treadmill from Sunny Health & Fitness. This treadmill is simple to put in a cupboard or under a desk and still has an extremely comfortable running surface. Its small size and robust construction make it a good option for those looking to do some exercise while at work or watching television.

If you're thinking of buying a folding treadmill, make sure to read the product description so that you can find out how it can be folded and stored. You should also be aware of the frame's dimensions and weight, along with any added features such as wheels or carry handles.

Travelle Gaines is a fitness instructor in Los Angeles at Blocks Nutrition. She said to PEOPLE that the biggest obstacle to staying active was the lack of time. A treadmill that folds up is the perfect option for those who are always busy. "It lets you take a short run before or after work or even during lunch," she says.

Easy to operate

The most efficient treadmills that fold are able to be operated with ease regardless of whether they're used for short runs or for a workout at home. Victoria Brady, ACE-CPT and fitness brand Fyt suggests looking for an option with intuitive controls, such as buttons for speed or incline, as well as touchscreen programming. If you're planning to walk on power in the park, you should look for a motor that has between 2.0-2.5 horsepower. If you're an avid athlete, you should choose a motor that can support running routines.

A good treadmill that folds should also have wheels, which makes it easier to move around your space, according to Sydney Bueckert, an NASM-CPT and the company's lead trainer in-house at Sunny Health & Fitness. It's much easier to get on and off a machine with wheels. You don't have to worry about moving the treadmill on your own.

It's also worth looking for a model that has some extra nice-to-have features, like ports for USB and headphone cables, as well as an accessory for your device. The Echelon Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill for instance, has a bright and crisp display that displays a lot of motivational metrics and allows you to connect to fitness apps and track your heart rate, among other things.

Other features you can look for include a safety clip, which stops the treadmill from running when someone walks on it while it's being used, and a deck that automatically folds into a 45-degree incline when you lift it from the bottom of the treadmill. Also, consider a model that has a gas shock, which allows the deck to be lowered slowly and gently, instead of hitting the ground (like some models that do not have this technology). You'll want to check that your new treadmill is in compliance with the safety requirements of the locale to operate it.

Safety

When you are choosing a treadmill to fold up, you want to be sure that it is equipped with security features. Most folding treadmills come with the safety lock that keeps the deck in place when in storage mode. This feature prevents accidental release of the deck while the treadmill is being used and also helps to keep children from trying to operate the machine.

A power cord lock is a second important safety feature. This will help ensure that the treadmill is off and away from reach after every workout session. This is crucial, particularly in the case of children who might be tempted to play with the cords or switch on the treadmill. If the treadmill isn't locked and shut off after every use, the treadmill could be turned on accidentally. Or children could pull the cord, causing it to speed up.

Also, make sure that the treadmill is away from objects such as curtains or drapes that might accidentally hang over the treadmill while using it. This could increase the chance of injury and create a trip-hazard. Additionally, it is recommended that you wear appropriate footwear when running on a treadmill. This will reduce the risk of falling over objects at home and also ensure that you keep a steady pace when walking or running on the treadmill.

It is also a good idea to make sure that the treadmill is folded and secured before leaving it in public areas like schools or gyms. This will reduce the chance of injury to other patrons or students who may be unaccustomed to the operation of a treadmill or the level of noise produced by one in a busy environment.

Stability

A treadmill that folds has a lower center of gravity than a non-folding model and is therefore more stable. This means that it is less likely to tip over, causing injury to the user if you slip off the treadmill fold up (reference) or lean too far back. It also occupies less space, which can be crucial if you live in an apartment that is small or confined home. A treadmill that folds up is also easier to transport. This can be a big advantage if you intend to take it on workout trips or business travel. Additionally, it's a good idea to look for a treadmill that folds and has a built-in carry handle and transportation wheels to make the process of moving it around more convenient.

It is important to consider the speed range and incline feature when selecting a treadmill that folds. If you plan to run on the treadmill the speed of 7.5 percent of a mile will suffice. If you are an athlete who competes then you might require an engine with a higher speed.

In addition, you must ensure that the treadmill is simple to fold and unfold. Some models require two people to collapse however, others can be easily folded by one person. The instructions for folding the top treadmills must be clear. It is important to follow the instructions of the manufacturer for regular maintenance and cleaning.

Some treadmills that fold are easy to store and operate, while others can be difficult to operate. It is recommended to study the user's manual attentively to learn how the machine operates. You should then try using the machine before deciding if it is right for your fitness needs.