In the ever-evolving landscape of home gym equipment, space-saving solutions like the best folding treadmills, have become essential. These home treadmills represent an ingenious fusion of cutting-edge technology and practicality, offering an enticing solution for those seeking an effective workout without compromising on space. These space-saving marvels have revolutionised the way we engage with our fitness routines, making it possible to pursue an active lifestyle within our own houses.
Folding treadmills are the epitome of versatility, effortlessly blending into any living or work from home space. Gone are the days of worrying about dedicating an entire room in your home to fitness equipment or moving around a heavy machine. With their clever designs, folding treadmills have shattered the barriers of space constraints, making it possible to reap the benefits of running and walking without leaving the comfort of your home.
The best folding treadmill at a glance:
• Best overall: Reebok One GT40S Folding Treadmill - View on Sports Direct
• Best budget: Opti Motorized Walking Treadmill - View on Argos
• Best auto incline: BH Fitness TRBS9 Folding Auto Incline Treadmill - View on Very
Another remarkable aspect of the best folding treadmills is their versatility in terms of the type of workout you can undertake on them. Many models offer various workout programs, adjustable inclines and speed variations to cater to all fitness levels. So if you're a seasoned runner, a beginner taking their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, or someone in between, folding treadmills can be tailored to your goals and needs. The flexibility they provide will empower you to craft your ideal home workout routine in the comfort and privacy in your own home.
We're here to unveil the top contenders for the title of the best folding treadmill. We'll explore their features, performance and user reviews to help you make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your new year fitness resolutions and the space you call home.
The best folding treadmills of 2024:
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall folding treadmill
Sports Directwww.sportsdirect.com
Description
The Reebok One GT40S is our standout choice in the world of compact fitness equipment. With its powerful motor, top speed of 16kph and 12 levels of incline, it offers a smooth and dynamic running experience, while the inclusion of various workout programmes keeps exercise routines engaging and challenging.
Additionally, its user-friendly LCD console display helps you easily keep track of time, speed, distance, calories burned, pulse and incline. If all this wasn't enough, the Reebok One GT40S also boasts MP3 connectivity and built-in speakers so you can pump and jam.
Pros
- Integrated One series cushioning to reduce any impact on joints
- 36 pre-set workout options for a good variety of workouts
- 12 Power incline levels
Cons
- No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection to allow syncing with fitness apps and smartwatches
Best budget folding treadmill
Argoswww.argos.co.uk
Description
Featuring a generously sized running platform, Opti's treadmill offers a comfortable and great value-for-money experience. The expansive LCD screen conveniently displays speed, workout duration, calories burned, and distance travelled, making it easy to track your progress within its selection of 15 pre-set exercise options.
Whether you want to brisk walk or light jog (with a maximum speed of 6kph), its treadmill accommodates this. The Opti Motorised Folding Treadmill is designed to fit comfortably even in compact spaces, making it an ideal choice for home workouts when storage is in short supply.
Pros
- LCD screen to help you track your speed, time, calories burned and more
- Set your pace and choose from 15 pre-set programs to mix up your workouts
- Large running surface for stability and comfort
Cons
- Limited to three manual incline positions only
Best auto incline folding treadmill
Verywww.very.co.uk
Description
If you don't know the benefits of incline walking and running, it’s time to get to know. Incline and decline features on a treadmill can elevate your workouts. The BH Fitness TRBS9 Folding Auto Incline Treadmill shines in this department.
Auto incline means pre-set settings and programs where the treadmill automatically adjusts the incline during your session. It does this like no other, it’s smooth, and subtle, but as effective as they come.
It also comes with an easy-to-use LCD backlit monitor with 12 profiles that provide goals and reduce stress. Plus, there's an eco-mode option that activates a change in the treadmill's software to drop energy consumption by an average of 25 per cent.
Pros
- Highly intuitive and engaging auto incline
- Sturdy kit
- Stylish
Cons
- Not as portable as other folding treadmills
Best folding treadmill on Amazon
AmazonDescription
The JTX Spring-5 is a reliable and feature-packed treadmill designed to enhance your home workouts. With a powerful, 2.5 horsepower motor, this treadmill offers a smooth and efficient running experience.
Its sturdy construction ensures durability, and the spacious running deck provides ample space for comfortable strides. There's also a large LCD monitor screen that displays speed, distance, calories, pulse and incline so you can receive real-time feedback mid-workout.
Pros
- Large LCD monitor that displays speed, distance calories and more
- 43 personal trainer-designed fitness programmes
- Can be connected to ZWIFT and KINOMAP via Bluetooth
Cons
- The instruction manual is basic
Best folding treadmill with Bluetooth
Amazonwww.argos.co.uk
Description
The Reebok Jet 100z boasts a robust 2.0 HP motor that effortlessly achieves speeds ranging from 1 to 18 kph. With its versatile design, it provides 12 levels of electronic incline to cater to various workout intensities.
This treadmill is engineered with Air Motion cushioning technology, responding dynamically to each foot strike by cleverly adjusting air distribution within the cushioning pods. The result? A stable and forgiving running surface that prioritises comfort and performance.
Pros
- 24 pre-installed fitness programmes to keep you motivated
- Fantastic cushioning support to reduce leg pain
- Bluetooth and ZWIFT integration to deliver an immersive running experience
Cons
- The running platform is relatively narrow
Best folding treadmill for super small spaces
Argoswww.argos.co.uk
Description
If you find that space is an issue inside your home, Dynamax might have the solution for you. Dubbed as the 'world's most compact treadmill', its patented folding system ingeniously packs a full treadmill into less than 0.5 metres squared.
The Pad's Mirage Console, coupled with the Dynamax app, provides real-time feedback to elevate and improve your performance. Also, an important feature to note is its adaptive speed control, which intuitively adjusts to match your deck position for a seamless workout.
Speaking of the deck, the platform offers great cushioning across the spacious 120cm by 44cm running deck.
Pros
- World's most compact treadmill so it can easily fit in most homes
- Gel-lined deck for cushioning and to support joint impact
- Console shows speed, time, distance and calories burned
Cons
- The maximum speed on this treadmill (9kph) which is low
Best folding treadmill with body fat analysis
Argoswww.argos.co.uk
Description
The Pro Fitness T1000 Folding Treadmill is your key to a highly versatile workout experience, offering 24 motivational workout programmes and body fat analysis to optimise your regime.
Featuring an acrylic mirror console with four large LED windows, it simplifies tracking essential workout metrics like heart rate, speed, gradient and calories burned.
Also, elevate your exercise routine with integrated Bluetooth speakers, syncing your favourite tunes effortlessly. Once your workout is complete, simply fold the treadmill and store.
Pros
- Comes with 24 motivational workout programmes
- Features a shock absorption effect for comfort while running
- Built-in speakers with Bluetooth connectivity so you can easily connect your phone
Cons
- Can't create your own user-defined programmes
Best pro folding treadmill
Branxwww.branxfitness.co.uk
Description
The Branx Fitness treadmill seamlessly combines powerful performance with a space-saving design. Equipped with a robust 3 CHP motor, it can reach speeds of up to 16.5kph, making it suitable for a wide range of workouts, from brisk walks to intense runs.
The treadmill also features a generous running deck, and its cushioning system provides support and comfort during workouts. With 16 levels of auto-incline and various pre-set programs, it offers versatile training options to keep you motivated on your journey to peak fitness.
Pros
- Five-inch LCD interface displays metrics like speed, distance, time, and calories burned
- Built-in Bluetooth for connecting with phones, fitness apps and smartwatches
- Cushioned with German-made springs and a cushioning system for excellent comfort
Cons
- Not recommended for taller users (over six feet)
Best performance folding treadmill
Decathlonwww.decathlon.co.uk
Description
This Smart treadmill is a performance treadmill made for running up to a maximum speed of 16kph. With motorised incline features offering a dynamic 10 per cent gradient, every run will become an exhilarating ascent towards your fitness goals.
The integrated smart features (including a touchscreen) provide a personalised workout experience, allowing you to track progress and set targets.
The real reason why we've dubbed this DOMYOS treadmill as 'best performance' is primarily because of its running deck dimensions and ability to withstand intense weekly running sessions, which means you're not limited on how much you can use it.
Pros
- Large running deck for added comfort
- Touchscreen that connects to the best apps and 30 integrated programmes
- Can be stored vertically
Cons
- Quite heavy and bulky to move around
Best folding treadmill for easy storage
AmazonDescription
This CITYSPORTS treadmill is so thin that it can easily fit in a cupboard or under your sofa. With Dual Exercise Mode you can easily switch between high-speed mode, ideal for intense workouts with raised handlebars, and low-speed mode, perfect for leisurely strolls with folded handlebars - you could almost say you get two treadmills for the price of one.
Plus, this is all while enjoying entertainment through the built-in Bluetooth speakers. Safety features include a wide, anti-slip running belt, silicone column support, and a weight capacity of 109kg, all geared towards protecting your joints and ensuring worry-free safety.
Pros
- No assembly required
- Works as a walking pad and as a more traditional treadmill
- Dual-screen so you can always track your metrics
Cons
- The accompanying app isn't the most comprehensive
FAQs: your questions answered
Are folding treadmills any good?
Just like exercise bikes and rowing machines, folding treadmills are indeed a valuable addition to the fitness landscape, offering a whole host of advantages. Their main appeal is that they fold, making them an excellent choice for individuals with limited workout space.
Beyond their compactness, folding treadmills can be as powerful as their non-folding counterparts. They often feature powerful motors, multiple workout programs, incline options and advanced monitoring options, like Bluetooth.
While some may argue that non-folding treadmills are sturdier, modern folding treadmill designs have vastly improved their durability and performance. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and space constraints, but for many, folding treadmills offer a highly useful and space-efficient fitness solution.
What should I look for when buying a folding treadmill?
When equipping your home gym with a treadmill, the decision to go for a folding model is often a smart (and space-saving) choice. Saying that, finding the right one to meet your fitness goals and any space restraints requires careful consideration. Here are some things to keep in mind while on the hunt for the best folding treadmill.
Storage
The primary reason for investing in a folding treadmill is that it will often fit better in your home than a non-folding one. Ensure it's easy to fold, move and store when not in use, and check if it comes with transportation wheels for easy movement.
Running surface
The size of a running platform may be crucial. Opt for a treadmill with a spacious running surface and make sure it can accommodate comfortable strides for your height. For example, some folding treadmills have a maximum height.
Incline options
Not all folding treadmills offer incline options, like running pads or under-desk treadmills. Saying that, many treadmills do come with adjustable incline settings to vary the intensity of your workouts.
Cushioning
The treadmill should offer adequate cushioning and shock absorption to minimise the impact on your joints while walking or running.
Programmes
You want a treadmill that has lots of built-in workout programs and features like heart rate, speed and distance monitoring. Some treadmills might come with Bluetooth connectivity, while others may not. These extras can enhance your workout experience by providing valuable and real-time data.
How long should I spend on a treadmill per day?
The ideal duration you should spend on a treadmill daily depends on your fitness goals, level and the intensity of your workouts. For adults looking to partake in general fitness, the NHS advises at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week. This translates to around 20-30 minutes of moderate or 10-15 minutes of vigorous exercise on most days. However, if your goal is weight loss or more significant cardiovascular benefits, you may need to aim for more than that.
It's essential to listen to your body and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your treadmill workouts to avoid fatigue or injury.
Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness Writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation. She enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether that's the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.
When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.
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