Don't Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning Folding Treadmill Incline Buying a Folding Treadmill

A treadmill that folds down can help you save time and money by allowing your training at home. However, before you start shopping determine what your workout goals are and then find a treadmill that matches.


"Be sure to take measurements of the space you'll use and store the machine and prioritize those with more warranty," Sydney Bueckert, NASM-CPT, tells SELF.

Deck Size

A treadmill that folds up is a great option for a number of exercisers. If you're an avid athlete looking to add an extra mile or two to your run or a newbie who wants to do a bit of cardio during meetings at work or after dinner, a folding treadmill can help you incorporate those workouts that are so needed. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity exercise. It's hard to argue with a treadmill that lets you to jump on and enjoy your daily cardio.

Despite the fact that older models were often associated with lower quality the latest models are more competitive than ever. The latest models of folding treadmills provide the same features and functions as non-folding alternatives. When choosing a folding treadmill, the size of the deck is important. You'll want an area that is wide and long enough to allow you to run in full stride. Ideally, a deck that is 55 inches long and 20 inches wide will give enough space for even the largest runners to feel at ease.

Another factor to consider is the capacity to carry the weight of the treadmill that folds. If you intend to use your treadmill for running, you'll want to ensure that it is able to handle your weight and any additional gear, like shoes. A high-quality treadmill that folds should have a capacity of at least 300 pounds.

It's also important to check that your treadmill is easy to fold. Some folding treadmills feature the "fold on pin" design that raises the console mast over the running surface when the treadmill is not being used. Others have hydraulics that enable you to fold the deck quickly and easily.

Once you've found the perfect treadmill that folds, it's time to get started working out! The built-in performance display shows data such as the speed, distance, heartrate and calories burned. You can pair your phone to the treadmill so that you can listen to music while working out or watch a movie. You can also participate in an online race against your family members or friends via the Facebook and Twitter apps. If you're looking to step up your game, you can try out one of the 15 pre-loaded workouts with a variety of speeds and inclines that can be adjusted.

Capacity to Line Incline

Inclination settings boost the intensity of your workout and target various muscle groups. Walking at a slight angle strengthens the lower back and calves, while running at an angle burns more calories than flat-running. You can spice up your workout by changing the angle. This will keep it exciting and prevent boredom.

When selecting a treadmill that has an incline, remember that the higher the slope, the more difficult it will be for beginners. This is why it's crucial to start low and slowly move up to more challenging inclines as you become more comfortable with your workout routine. Incorporating an incline into your routine can also help you avoid injury by reducing the stress on your joints.

Apart from ensuring the treadmill's incline capabilities are in line with your goals, you'll also be looking at the deck size and motor's horsepower. If you plan to mostly power walk, and add in some jogging, then the treadmill with an 2.0-2.5 chp motor will likely suffice. However, if you're an avid runner, then you'll want to find a treadmill that has a more powerful 2.5 chp or more motor.

Take note of whether the incline settings on your treadmill are set manually or automatically. This will affect your experience with the treadmill because the controls on some models require you to press an option to alter the slope of the deck while others have an automatic incline setting that can reach up to 10 percent grade.

In the end, you'll need to ensure that the incline feature is able to fold and unfold. This is crucial in the event that you purchase a treadmill that folds and has little storage space in your office or at home. Some treadmills are difficult to fold and unfold and require more than one person, and frequently requiring someone to hold them up while you do it. Many of our choices feature an automated folding system that makes the process simple and quick. This will save you time and stress when it comes to storing your treadmill.

Speed Capabilities

The top folding treadmills achieve speeds of up to 12 mph, which is fast enough for the majority of runners. If you are not an avid runner or prefer walking for most of your workouts then you should choose an exercise machine that has a slower maximum speed, for instance, 8 mph. If you're planning to use your treadmill for Peloton classes or Zwift and Zwift, make sure it connects to your smartphone so you can keep on top of your training. We also like models with thumb dials positioned at the chest level on the handgrips to allow you to quickly take big leaps in speed or incline--it's more fluid than trying to press buttons on the console.

Another aspect to consider is whether a treadmill has built-in safety features like an emergency stop-clip that shuts down the treadmill if you slip or fall. These features are crucial for safety and to prevent damage to motors and belts. We recommend you test this feature prior to purchasing one of our picks.

Lastly, be sure to be aware of the treadmill's weight capacity while you're comparing. The higher-end folding treadmills are generally stronger and have a larger maximum weight capacity, which will help prevent them from warping over time. If you're concerned about the longevity of a treadmill, take a look at its warranty and customer reviews to determine how it holds up.

Be aware that treadmills are not used every day and that folding models may be more prone to wear and tear. Mody claims that this could lead to issues in the future as it puts more pressure on the hinge. We suggest choosing a treadmill made by an organization with an established track record of producing high-quality equipment.

The latest models are getting up to older models, which were characterized with less functionality. Many of them have comparable features and capabilities are found on higher-priced treadmills, like incline capability.

Additional Features

Folding treadmills aren't any different. As with most things in life, you pay what you pay for. The treadmills that fold require more components and materials than treadmills that do not fold like heavier metal tubing and safety features like gas shocks. These costs can raise the cost, but they make the treadmill more durable and stable.

Christine Luff, a fitness expert and top trainer has a keen eye for high-end products that enhance performance. She loves running outdoors, but she also enjoys incorporating treadmill incline exercises into her workout routine. An incline can make a huge difference to your treadmill workout, whether you're looking to increase your heart rate or recreate the outdoors experience.

treadmills that incline suggests choosing a foldable treadmill with a frame and motor that are durable enough to support the weight of your body, and an expansive workout deck with built-in speakers to blast your favorite music. She also encourages assessing the warranty to choose those that have a longer-term warranty especially for crucial components like the motor and frame.

In our testing of treadmills that fold up The JRNY model from Bowflex stood out due to its commercial-grade design and easy design. It is quiet, so it can be utilized in a space without disrupting or distracting others. It's easy to switch between various user profiles at the press of one button. It also comes with 26 integrated programs, coaching via the JRNY App, and a handy fan that cools the body to the perfect temperature.

Another option worth looking into is the TF50 from Matrix. The treadmill is designed with a fold-on base (FOB) which makes it easier to fold or unfold when not in usage and gives it more stability. It comes with an integrated speaker that plays your favorite songs for workouts and can be connected to third-party apps for virtual training. It doesn't come with an incline, however and its tiny fan may not be enough for the majority of users to be at ease during sweaty workouts.