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

If you're training for your next race or simply want to fit in a quick workout at home, a treadmill can help you reach your goals. It is important to select one that folds to save space.

To fold away treadmill up a treadmill, first raise the deck towards the display. Then, carefully secure the latch knob to secure it.

Compact Design

Foldable treadmills are compact enough to fit under a bed or in a closet when not in use, however they still offer plenty of running space. They are often cheaper than non-folding treadmills, and can help you keep active even when the weather is bad or your schedule is busy.

Think about your fitness goals and the way you plan to utilize the treadmill. Certain treadmills are designed for walking, while others permit light jogging and even short runs. Before purchasing a treadmill, ensure that you know its speed range and motor size.

Non-folding treadmills tend to be heavier, which helps them stay stable even at speeds of high. But folding treadmills also come with a design that could make them less durable especially when they are used by runners who are pushing themselves to the limit. When choosing a treadmill that folds, search for one with safety features, like an emergency stop clip to make sure you are able to stop the machine should you lose control of the machine.

Choose a treadmill with a powerful motor, and a large deck size if you want to buy an adjustable model that is safe for runners. The general rule is that the 2.5 horsepower motor is enough for casual runners and occasional sprinters but serious runners should aim for at least 3.5 hp to ensure they can run comfortably at high speeds. Find a treadmill that has built-in cushions to lessen the force of your knees to allow you to train for longer periods without a fear of injury.

Convenient Storage

If you live in a tiny space, you must be able to fold up your treadmill when it's not in use. Most folding treadmills feature wheels that can be easily removed from the area the place you work out to allow space for other activities, like when kids come home from school or when you have dinner guests arriving later. Non-folding treadmills require more space as they are intended to be permanent fixtures.

While many folding treadmills are made for smaller areas, they do not skimp on features or performance. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill, for example, folds up quickly with the help of the patented EasyLift mechanism. This treadmill also boasts an 3.5 CHP motor and has both a 15% incline and a 3 percentage decline to help increase your fitness.

Another option is the SF-T7632 folding treadmill from Sunny Health & Fitness. This treadmill is easy to put in a cupboard or under a desk, and is still an extremely comfortable running surface. Its small size and sturdy construction make it an excellent choice for those who want to get some light exercise while working or watching television.

If you're thinking of buying a folding treadmill, make sure you read the description so that you can find out how it can be folded and stored. It is also important to look at the frame weight and dimensions and also the added transport features such as wheels for transportation and carry handles built-in.

Travelle Gaines, a fitness instructor at Blocks Nutrition in Los Angeles She tells PEOPLE that one of the biggest obstacles to staying active is a lack of time. This makes a treadmill that folds perfectly for busy people. "It allows you to get a quick run in before or after work or even during lunchtime," she says.

Easy to operate

The best folding treadmills are simple to operate regardless of whether you're running for a short jog or an at-home workout. Make sure you choose a treadmill with simple, easy-to-use controls such as buttons for speed and incline as well as touchscreens built-in, according to Victoria Brady, an ACE-CPT for fitness brand Fyt. If you're planning to walk on power, look for an engine that's between 2.0-2.5 horsepower. If you're a serious athlete, you should choose a motor that can support running routines.

A good treadmill that folds should also come with wheels, which makes it easier to move around your space, says Sydney Bueckert, an NASM-CPT and the company's lead trainer in-house at Sunny Health & Fitness. It's easier to get onto and off a treadmill that has wheels. You don't need to worry about moving the treadmill by yourself.