Best Treadmill For Heavy People

Sydney Kaiser

*TreadmillReviewGuru helps consumers find the best home fitness products. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Last Updated: August 3, 2023

Whether you’re needing a treadmill with a high weight limit or you’re just looking for a treadmill that’s solid and durable, we’re here to help! When I see a heavy weight capacity of 300-400 lbs on a treadmill, that tells me it should be well-constructed and sturdy without even setting foot on it. 400 lbs is usually the heaviest weight limit available on motorized treadmills. You can typically expect models with limits up to this to be large, durable machines, too. We’ve put together this list of the best treadmills for heavy people after testing several models with high limits. So, check out our list below to find the best one for you, and keep reading to learn about other factors to consider before buying.

Why You Should Trust Us

Fitness and exercise equipment should be accessible to everyone. Fortunately, just as people come in all shapes and sizes, so do treadmills. When it comes to treadmills we’ve tested, we’ve used all kinds of treadmills from small to large and under-desk to commercial. Our team also varies in size and height from 5’1” all the way up to 6’5”, so we have a unique ability to help people of pretty much all sizes find equipment, including treadmills, that works the best for them. So, when searching for the best treadmill for heavy people, you can trust that we’ve spent time on the models that we recommend. Many of these models are also found on our best treadmills list because they’re solid machines that we recommend to most people.

Here Are The Best Treadmills For Heavy People

Sneak Peek Of The Best Treadmills For Heavy People::

Best Treadmills For Heavy People – Our Top Recommendations

We’ve hand-selected our picks for the best treadmills for heavy people that we think you should consider.

1. Best Treadmill For Heavy People Overall: Sole F80 Treadmill

The best treadmill for heavy people overall is the Sole F80. We’ve determined that based on construction quality, ease of use, features, and the 350 lb weight limit that this treadmill is not only stable and appropriate for most people but it’s a great value for the price, too. Sole also helps to instill confidence in the design with the included lifetime frame and motor warranty.

In addition to the nice weight capacity, the F80 has a large 22” wide by 60” long deck to accommodate most running strides. Its 3.5 HP motor handles heavy use like long-distance training, too. The F80 also goes up to 12 mph and inclines up to 15 different levels so you have a lot of speed and grade to choose from. Beyond the hearty motor and training variables, the steel frame and low-profile deck make the F80 a substantial treadmill to use. It’s large and heavy-duty. Fortunately, if you’re say a 300 lb person this is the best folding treadmill with that high weight capacity. There are also 4 transportation wheels so when it’s folded it isn’t very hard to move, even though it does weigh 274 lbs.

The Sole F80 Treadmill comes with a 10” touch screen and a lot of content options. From included workout programs and fitness tests to 12 preloaded streaming apps like Netflix and screen mirroring from your phone, there are all kinds of thoughtful features on the F80.

Head over to our full review of the Sole F80 Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The 350 lb weight limit, solid construction, lifetime frame and motor warranty, and overall features make this treadmill stable and a great buy.

The spacious deck is 22” wide and 60” long to handle all running strides.

The 3.5 HP motor is quiet and capable of handling multiple users and long-distance use.

The 10” touch screen includes onboard workouts and preloaded streaming apps without an additional subscription fee.

Cons

The screen is a little small and hard to use while running.

The cushioning is firm and might not work for those with joint issues.

FeaturesSpecs

10.1” Android-Powered Touch Screen

12 Preloaded Streaming Apps

10 Included Workout Modes

7 Included Fitness Tests

Screen Mirroring

Wireless Charging Pad

Pulse Grips

Pairs With Garmin Watch

Device Rack

2 Cooling Fans

2 Cupholders

4 Transportations Wheels

Folding Deck

Footprint: 82.5” L x 38” W x 66” H

Motor: 3.5 HP

Weight Capacity: 350 lbs

Running Surface: 22” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 274 lbs

Max speed: 12 mph

Max incline: 15 levels

Warranty: Lifetime frame & motor, 3 years parts, and 1-year labor

If you’re looking for the best treadmill for heavy people overall then consider the Sole F80. This treadmill has a lot of nice features and a good weight capacity for most people to use it.

2. Best Folding Treadmill For Heavy People: Bowflex Treadmill 22

Next on our list of best treadmills for heavy people, we have the Bowflex Treadmill 22. This treadmill is a beast with a 400 lb limit and a sizable footprint. Fortunately, the deck folds up to almost 90 degrees to save you some room. One tip is to fully decline the deck before folding it for more compact storage of the T22. It’s because of this feature that we’ve awarded the Bowflex Treadmill 22 as the best folding treadmill for heavy people.

We love this treadmill because it is quiet, capable of handling a lot of use, and it comes with a lovely 22” touch screen. The 4.0 HP motor is powerful while offering a 12 mph max speed, 20% incline, and -5% decline. The running surface offers 22” in width and 60” length so most people can walk, jog, hike, and run, comfortably. The cushioning is pretty firm and feels similar to running outside, so if you like running on a firm surface with light shock absorption, this is one to consider.

The 22” touch screen is positioned up high for great viewing and includes onboard workouts and the option to stream from JRNY, which is the fitness platform found on Bowflex equipment. JRNY offers a lot of different training and entertainment content such as trainer-led studio classes, adaptive workouts tailored to your fitness level, Explore the World workouts to travel through different locations, and app streaming from Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Head over to our full review of the Bowflex Treadmill 22 to learn more.

Pros

The 400 lb weight limit makes this best for most people, plus the heavy-duty construction makes this treadmill perform well.

The running surface is best for all stride lengths and fitness levels.

The 4.0 HP motor is ideal for heavy training and use.

The 22” touch screen includes workouts and the option to subscribe to JRNY for more guided workouts and app streaming.

Cons

There are limited quick adjusting buttons.

The cushioning is firm underfoot, making it not suitable for those with joint discomfort while running.

FeaturesSpecs

22” Adjustable Touch Screen

Onboard Workouts Included

Optional JRNY Subscription for workouts and app streaming

Included Heart Rate Arm Band

Adjustable Fan

Device Rack

Storage Tray

2 Cupholders

Additional Handles For Incline

2 Transportation Wheels

Folding Deck

Footprint: 85” L x 39.6” W x 70” H

Motor: 4.0 HP

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

Running Surface: 22” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 336 lbs

Max Speed: 12 mph

Max incline: 20%

Max Decline: -5%

Warranty: Frame and motor lifetime, deck, electronics, and parts 3-years, labor 1-year

Check out the Bowflex Treadmill 22 if you’re in the market for a large folding treadmill with high incline and decline range. It is best for most people because the Bowflex T22 is a great 400 lb capacity treadmill.

3. Best Budget Treadmill For Heavy People: Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill

Heavy-duty treadmills of large size and large weight capacities do come with higher price tags than small compact treadmills. An excellent buy for the quality, size, and 375 lb weight limit is the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill. This large, running treadmill is our pick for the best budget treadmill for heavy people because of this. It also doesn’t hurt that the construction is backed by a lifetime frame and motor warranty.

Even though the 7.8 AT is sizable, it has a folding deck and 2 transportation wheels for when you need to move it. Having the deck fold up out of the way makes it fit better in more homes. It’s a good idea to have a spot for this treadmill to stay in your home though because it weighs 330 lbs. The 4.0 HP motor is quiet and quick to adjust so if you like interval training on treadmills, this is the one to pick. It is one of the fastest-adjusting treadmills we’ve tested. It also comes with the Sprint 8 interval training program included on the LED screen for structured training.

The 22” wide and 60” long deck accommodates all stride lengths and the belt moves up to 12 mph for a nice speed range. With the 15% max incline in the deck, you can fire up your posterior chain, too! The cushioning in the deck has good shock absorption to not feel too soft or too firm for those who are looking to lessen the impact on their joints, too.

Head over to our full review of the Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The 375 lb weight limit, lifetime frame and motor warranty, and durable construction make this a great value pick.

The 4.0 HP motor is quick to adjust and capable of handling multiple users and heavy use like HIIT training.

The deck is large and well-cushioning to suit most people.

The LED screen includes onboard workouts and the Sprint 8 HIIT training program.

Cons

The console has less tech than other comparable models.

There aren’t any subscription training options built into the console.

FeaturesSpecs

9.3” LED Screen

Included Onboard Workouts

Sprint 8 HIIT Training Program Built In

Device Rack

Bluetooth Speakers

Fan

Pulse Grips

Included Heart Rate Chest Strap

2 Cupholders

2 Transportation Wheels

FeatherLight Folding

Footprint: 76” L x 37” W x 64” H

Motor: 4.0 HP

Weight Capacity: 375 lbs

Running Surface: 22” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 330 lbs

Max Speed: 12 mph

Max Incline: 15%

Warranty: Lifetime frame & motor, 5 years for parts, and 2 years for labor

We recommend the Horizon 7.8 AT for folks looking for a good bang for their buck. Not only can the Horizon handle a lot of use but its 375 lb weight limit is great for most people.

4.Best Treadmill For Heavy Runners: Sole F85 Treadmill

The best treadmill for heavy runners is the Sole F85. This treadmill has everything a runner could want and need. The deck is large and accommodating for all running strides, the 375 lb weight limit handles most people, and the 4.0 HP motor is ideal for heavy distance training.

The Sole F85 is a quiet home treadmill with a 22” wide and 60” long running surface. The deck has a low profile which makes it easy to step on and off of, as well as great for more ceiling heights in homes. The deck’s cushioning has shock absorption with a firm feeling underfoot making it great for road runners and those training for an outdoor event.

While running on the F85, you have plenty of options to keep you entertained and help keep your runs structured. You can of course just hop on and go, but the included workout programs and fitness tests are a nice option to have. Plus, there’s the ability to create your own custom workouts and save them. The console has a good-sized 15.6” touch screen that comes with 12 preloaded streaming apps and the ability to pair your phone to mirror content on the screen. The streaming apps include Netflix, Hulu, Youtube, Prime Video, Spotify, and Peacock, among others.

Head over to our full review of the Sole F85 Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The 375 lb weight limit, large deck, and heavy-duty construction and motor that are backed by lifetime warranties make this treadmill a great option.

The 4.0 HP motor is great for distance running.

The deck inclines 15 different levels, declines 6 levels, and goes up to 12 mph.

The 15.6” touch screen comes with preloaded apps and included workouts.

Cons

The screen doesn’t adjust and is a little hard to reach while running.

The fan isn’t very effective.

FeaturesSpecs

15.6” Touch Screen

10 Included Workouts Programs

7 Included Fitness Tests

12 Included Preloaded Streaming Apps

Screen Mirroring

Wireless Charging Pad

Pulse Grips

Device Rack

2 Cooling Fans

Bluetooth Speakers

2 Cupholders

4 Transportation Wheels

Folding Deck

Footprint: 82.5” L x 38” W x 66” H

Motor: 4.0 HP

Weight Capacity: 375 lbs

Running Surface: 22” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 319 lbs

Max Speed: 12 mph

Max Incline: 15 levels

Max Decline: 6 levels

Warranty: Lifetime frame & motor, 3 years deck & other components, 1-year labor, and 90 days cosmetic items

If you’re a runner looking for a high-weight capacity treadmill that’s made for running, then check out the Sole F85. This treadmill comes with workout programs and customization to create and save your own workouts as well as a large deck for most running strides.

5.Best Non-Folding Treadmill For Heavy People: Life Fitness Run CX

If you have the space for it, this next treadmill is a great, durable option. The Life Fitness Run CX is a home treadmill that feels like one you’d use in the gym. It has an impressive 400 lb weight capacity and adaptable motor so it can be used at high speeds and for long periods of time. The motor is a 3.0 HP motor with a 6.0 HP peak that kicks in to handle your heavy training sessions.

I say it’s great if you have the space for it because it doesn’t fold up. The Run CX has earned the title of the best non-folding treadmill for heavy people because of its large design and durable construction. For plenty of training options, the Run CX inclines up to 15% and the belt moves up to 12 mph. There are two front transportation wheels so you can lift up the back end of the deck to move it around when needed. This is a large and heavy treadmill at 341 lbs so we definitely recommend having a spot for it to stay though.

The Life Fitness Run CX is an excellent option if you have multiple people in your household wanting to use the treadmill. The simple LCD console has up to 4 profiles so you can save your stats and workout preferences. Plus, the console comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and onboard workouts as well as manual mode.

Head over to our full review of the Life Fitness Run CX Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The lifetime warranty for the frame and shock absorbers, as well as the 400 lb weight limit and durable design, make this treadmill a great non-folding option.

The motor has an adaptable horsepower to be more efficient for distance training and high-speed intervals.

This treadmill feels similar to one you’d use in a public gym.

The console is simple and good for multiple users as well as the overall durability and capabilities.

Cons

The console is a little clunky to use.

The console doesn’t come with a fan.

FeaturesSpecs

Track Connect Console

15 Preloaded Workout Programs

12 Custom Workout Settings

Bluetooth Connectivity

Device Rack

Included Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap

USB Charging Port

No Fan

2 Cupholders

2 Transportation Wheels

Non-Folding Deck

Footprint: 79.5” L x 32” W x 61” H

Motor: 3.0 HP (6.0 HP Peak)

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

Running surface: 22” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 341 lbs

Max Speed: 12 mph

Max Incline: 15%

Warranty: Lifetime for frame & shock absorbers, 10-year motor, 7-year parts, 3-year console, and 1-year labor

The Life Fitness Run CX is the best non-folding treadmill for heavy people because it performs like a gym-quality treadmill while being great for home use. If you are looking for a simple, yet durable treadmill that’s great for you and your family, check out the Run CX.

6. Best High-End Manual Treadmill For Heavy People: AssaultRunner Elite

Curved, manual treadmills are great if you are looking for a treadmill for your garage gym, or if you want a treadmill without a max speed that’s low-maintenance. The AssaultRunner Elite takes the award as the best high-end manual treadmill for heavy people because it has a design that’s suitable for most people. It’s also a 400 lb capacity treadmill.

What makes manual treadmills great for running is their curved decks. The AssaultRunner Elite has a slight curve that is easy to get up to speed while using it. Since there isn’t a motor, the slat belt’s pace is controlled by your legs so the belt moves as fast as you can. The slat belt has 62 rubberized slats that absorb the shock when your feet hit the deck. It feels firm to run on while providing some impact absorption.

The belt is 17” wide and 65” long so it’s great for all running strides. The narrow belt helps keep you in alignment while running, too. The AssaultRunner Elite is the premium manual treadmill from the brand. Its impressive steel construction makes for a solid running experience and smooth moving belt. The console is also battery-powered so you don’t have to worry about plugging the AssaultRunner in.

Head over to our full review of the AssaultRunner Elite Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The 400 lb weight limit and easy-to-move belt are great for most people.

It doesn’t require much maintenance or electricity to use.

The belt comes with a lifetime warranty.

The console is battery-powered with included interval programming and Bluetooth connectivity.

Cons

There is a learning curve if you’ve never used a manual treadmill before.

It isn’t great for walkers who want to zone out.

FeaturesSpecs

Battery-Powered LCD Display

Included Interval Workout Settings

Bluetooth Connectivity

2 Cupholders

Small Device Rack

Heart Rate Monitor Connectivity

2 Transportation Wheels

Non-Folding

Footprint: 70” L x 32” W x 64” H

No Motor

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

Running surface: 17” W x 65” L

Treadmill Weight: 289 lbs

No Max Speed

No Incline

Warranty: Lifetime belt, 10-year frame, 3-year non-wear parts, and 1-year labor

The AssaultRunner Elite is a high-quality manual treadmill with a high weight capacity, durable design, and non-motorized belt. If you are looking for a low-maintenance treadmill, check this one out.

7. Best 400 lb Weight Capacity Treadmill: Sole TT8 Treadmill

A commercial-grade option from Sole Fitness is the Sole TT8 Treadmill. This treadmill is also our pick for the best 400 lb weight capacity treadmill on this list. Along with incredible construction, the TT8 has a large 22” x 60” deck and 3” belt rollers to smoothly move the belt. The 4.0 HP motor is durable with a 12 mph max speed, 15 levels of incline, and 6 levels of decline.

This non-folding treadmill is rated for home and light commercial use. The motor also features a 10 lb flywheel to keep it smooth and consistent while adjusting. There’s also an additional motor to operate the incline and decline in the deck. The reinforced frame and high-powered motor are also backed by lifetime warranties.

The Sole TT8 comes with a 15.6” touch screen and 12 preloaded streaming apps that you can just log into your respective account for and start watching. There’s no additional subscription fee required, which we really appreciate. Plus, there are onboard workout programs to follow along with or the ability to create your own. Another aspect that we love about the TT8 is that you get all of this packed into a commercial-quality design for a nice price.

Head over to our full review of the Sole TT8 Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The commercial-grade construction holds up to 400 lbs of user weight.

The 4.0 HP motor supports heavy training with 15 levels of incline and 6 levels of decline.

The durable design comes with a lifetime frame and motor warranty for home and light commercial use.

The touch screen comes with included workouts and preloaded apps like Hulu and Netflix.

Cons

The screen is non-adjustable and hard to navigate while running.

The quick adjustment buttons skip some increments.

FeaturesSpecs

15.6” Touch Screen

10 Workout Programs

7 Fitness Tests

12 Preloaded Streaming Apps

Screen Mirroring

Wireless Charging Pad

Bluetooth Speakers

Device Rack

Pulse Grips

2 Cupholders

Transportation Wheels

Non-Folding Deck

Footprint: 81” L x 38” W x 66” H

Motor: 4 HP

10 lb Flywheel

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

Running surface: 22” W x 55” L

Treadmill Weight: 319 lbs

Max Speed: 12 mph

Max Incline: 15 levels

Max Decline: 6 levels

Warranty: Lifetime frame & motor, 3-years parts, and 1-year labor

Our recommendation for the best 400 lb capacity treadmill is the Sole TT8. We love that it is rated for home and light commercial use. It also comes with plenty of training features and entertainment options.

8. Best Manual Treadmill For Heavy Athletes: TrueForm Runner

Another excellent curved manual treadmill option is the TrueForm Runner. This treadmill is practically indestructible and capable of handling all-day use in commercial settings. It’s also low-maintenance because it’s non-motorized. You also can’t beat the 700 lb walking weight limit and 450 lb running weight limit!

This treadmill is especially ideal for sports athletes because of the customizable slat belt. Not only with the belt move as fast as you can, for an unlimited max speed, but it can be purchased with different materials. It comes in the standard rubberized slat-belt design, as well as turf and rubberized track. This is so you can train in your track spikes or cleats on the TrueForm Runner. It’s for this reason that we love recommending the TrueForm Runner as the best manual treadmill for heavy athletes. That, and the incredible weight capacity, makes it perfect for most people.

What makes a TrueForm a TrueForm is the shallow curved deck. This minimal curve is proven to help promote proper running mechanics and to encourage a forefoot and midfoot strike. Heel strikers like me will probably find they fatigue faster, but if you want to work on improving your gait, the TrueForm Runner is one to check out.

Head over to our full review of the TrueForm Runner Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

The impressive 700 lb walking and 450 lb running weight capacities make this treadmill great for pretty much anyone.

This treadmill is found in homes, garages, and commercial settings.

The curved deck helps to improve your gait.

The belt is customizable to purchase with rubberized slats, turf, or rubberized track.

Cons

The console has limited metrics tracking and no connectivity.

It might be too overbuilt for some homes.

FeaturesSpecs

Bright LED Display with a Rechargeable Battery

Promotes Proper Running Form

Customizable Belt

Customizable Frame with Different Colors

2 Transportation Wheels

Non-Folding

Footprint: 64” L x 36” W x 63” H

No Motor

Weight Capacity: 700 lbs (Walking) 450 lbs (Running)

Running surface: 17” W x 64” L

Treadmill Weight: 350 lbs

Unlimited Max Speed

No Incline

Warranty: 20 years frame, 2-years tread mechanism, surface, & display, and 90-days labor

For an incredibly durable manual treadmill for pretty much everyone, the TrueForm Runner is where it’s at. This is a great option if you’re an athlete or if you want to improve your running form.

9. Best Incline Treadmill For Heavy People: NordicTrack X22i

The NordicTrack X22i Incline Trainer has an impressive 40% incline and -6% decline. This is the highest incline and decline we’ve seen on treadmills. That is why we’ve given the X22i the award for the best incline treadmill for heavy people. Considering the deck goes all the way up to 40%, the 300 lb weight limit is a nice component of the construction. It isn’t the heaviest weight limit on this list, but for this treadmill’s capabilities, it makes for a heavy-duty design.

The X22i has a quiet 4.0 HP motor and a 12 mph max speed. The deck provides ample room for running and hiking 22” in width and 60” in length. The deck also features soft cushioning that is great for those with joint issues and discomfort. In fact, this treadmill has some of the most forgiving deck cushioning we’ve used on treadmills.

The NordicTrack X22i has a large 22” touch screen that offers streaming from iFit. iFit is a complete training platform that features trainer-led workouts filmed indoors and outdoors. The outdoor classes are impressive and let you follow instructors through remote locations literally on every continent on Earth. Plus, in each iFit workout, the X22i will automatically adjust for hands-free training.

Head over to our full review of the NordicTrack X22i Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

This treadmill inclines up to 40% and declines up to -6% for unreal training options.

The deck is large and well-cushioned.

The 22” touch screen features iFit to offer thousands of workout classes and automatic adjustability.

The 4.0 HP motor is quiet and great for handling heavy training.

Cons

The cushioning can feel bouncy at higher speeds.

The deck has a high profile and with the high incline, we recommend using it in a room with taller ceilings.

FeaturesSpecs

22” Touch Screen

iFit-Enabled

AutoAdjust

HR Connectivity (with Armband Sold Separately)

2 Cupholders

No Device Rack

Upper Handles For Incline

2 Transportation Wheels

Non-Folding Deck

Footprint: 70” L x 39” W x 72.5” H

Motor: 4.0 HP

Weight Capacity: 300 lbs

Running surface: 22” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 417 lbs (In Box)

Max Speed: 12 mph

Max Incline: 40%

Max Decline: -6%

Warranty: 10 years frame, 2-years parts, and 1-year labor

The NordicTrack X22i is an excellent option for a high-inclining treadmill. The incline and decline range paired with the 12 mph max speed range provides a lot of challenging training options.

10. Best Under Desk Treadmill For Heavy People: LifeSpan TR5000 Under Desk Treadmill

The best under-desk treadmill for heavy people goes to the LifeSpan TR5000. This treadmill is also at the top of our best under-desk treadmills list. What makes this treadmill impressive is its high-quality construction and 400 lb weight limit. Most people can use this under their standing desk to get in some steps while they work.

The LifeSpan TR5000 includes a 3.0 HP motor that’s rated for up to 9 hours of use per day. This treadmill is specifically designed for use under a standing desk because it doesn’t include any handles or uprights. It also has a max speed of 4 mph. This speed range is great for all walking paces since most people tend to walk slower while working at their desk including us.

We love how quiet this treadmill is to use and that the deck offers enough room for most people. The deck is 20” wide and 50” long to give you plenty of room for walking. It is also a good size to fit under most adjustable desks, too. The console sits on your desk so you can adjust the treadmill and track your metrics conveniently as well.

Head over to our full review of the LifeSpan TR5000 Under Desk Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

This under-desk treadmill is great for most people with a 400 lb weight capacity.

The 3.0 HP is great for all-day use at your desk and is very quiet to operate.

The 20” wide by 50” long deck is great for all walking strides.

The 4 mph speed range is great for walking at your desk.

Cons

It doesn’t come with a standing desk.

The console takes up some space on your desk.

FeaturesSpecs

Omni-Hub Console or Retro Console

Rated For Use of 9 Hours Per Day

Designed For Use Under Standing Desks

No Handles

No Storage

2 Transportation Wheels

Non-Folding

Footprint: 63” L x 28.5” W x 7.25” H

Motor: 3.0 HP

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

Running surface: 20” W x 50” L

Treadmill Weight: 119 lbs

Max Speed: 4 mph

No Incline

Warranty: 10 years frame, 2-years parts, and 1-year labor

If you’re looking for an under-desk 400 lb capacity treadmill, then check out the LifeSpan TR5000. This is a sizable under-desk treadmill that can still fit under most standing desks.

11. Best Commercial Treadmill For Heavy People: Freemotion t22.9 Reflex

A commercial treadmill is rated for all-day use in settings like public gyms. They can also be found in smaller studios and homes as well. The Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill is an impressive treadmill that’s the preferred treadmill used at Orangetheory Fitness Studios. It also comes with a 400 lb weight limit, so that’s why we’ve named it the best commercial treadmill for heavy people.

The 5.0 AC motor is specifically designed to handle foot traffic seen in gyms. It is powerful and great for long distances and all-day use. The Reflex also goes up to 15 mph and has a 15% incline. It does require a 20-amp 120-volt circuit to plug it in, so keep this in mind. It also doesn’t fold and weighs a whopping 619 lbs, so we recommend using it on a ground floor in a designated space.

We love the deck cushioning. It is forgiving and great for those with joint issues. It’s also spacious at 21.5” wide and 60” long. This paired with the double-layered belt and 3.5” deck rollers makes for a durable design. The Reflex Treadmill also features a 22” touch screen and iFit streaming to keep you and/or your clients engaged while working out. We recommend checking this treadmill out if you’re looking for a commercial treadmill for yourself or your studio gym.

Head over to our full review of the Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill to learn more.

Pros

This high-end treadmill handles commercial use and is best for most people up to 400 lbs.

The deck is spacious and offers excellent cushioning.

The 22” touch screen offers iFit streaming and auto adjustability as you workout.

The 5.0 AC motor is powerful and offers a 15 mph max speed and a 15% incline.

Cons

This treadmill is expensive but priced appropriately for commercial use.

It is heavy and requires being used on a ground floor.

FeaturesSpecs

22” Touch Screen

Streaming From iFit With or Without A Subscription

Bluetooth Connectivity

Pulse Grips

USB Charging Port

Fan

2 Cupholders

Connects To Compatible Heart Rate Monitor

Front Transporation Wheels

Non-Folding

Footprint: 87” L x 34” W x 66” H

Motor: 5.0 HP AC

Weight Capacity: 400 lbs

Running surface: 21.5” W x 60” L

Treadmill Weight: 619 lbs

Max Speed: 15 mph

Max Incline: 15%

Warranty: 7-years frame and 3-years parts & labor

If you’re in the market for a commercial treadmill for your home or studio gym, we highly suggest the Freemotion t22.9 Reflex Treadmill. With all of its features and powerful construction, it is one of the best.

Finding The Best Treadmill For Your Weight

Best Treadmills With A 400 lb Weight Capacity

If you’re looking for the best treadmill for a 400 lb person, check out these models below.

Best Treadmills With A 350 lb Weight Capacity

If you’re looking for the best treadmill for a 350 lb person, check out these models below.

Best Treadmills With A 300 lb Weight Capacity

If you’re looking for the best treadmill for a 300 lb person, check out these models below.

Factors To Keep In Mind When Buying The Best Treadmill For Heavy People

There are some things to consider when purchasing the best treadmill for a heavy person beyond the weight limit. Check out these factors below.

Weight Capacity

Of course, you should check the weight capacity if you’re looking for a treadmill to make sure it will support you. Some treadmills only come with 200-250 lb limits so they’re not ideal for a lot of people. Typically on motorized treadmills 400 lbs is the highest limit we see, and some manual treadmills offer a higher amount. Treadmills with high-weight capacities are usually larger machines that have great construction so whether you’re concerned about the limit working for you, or if you just want a solid treadmill, you’ll most likely get both when purchasing a high-capacity machine.

Training Goals

Another factor to consider is what you want to use the treadmill for. Are you looking to just walk, walk and run, or train for long distances? Treadmills come with different motor sizes and deck sizes to support different use. For running we recommend motors of 3-4.0 HP. These motors typically handle a lot of use. Motors of 2-3.0 HP are usually best for walking and some jogging. We’ve also found in our testing that 60” long decks are best for all running stride lengths.

Treadmills also have different max speeds, inclines, and some even decline. You want to be sure that the training capabilities will work for you.

Your Home

It’s imperative that whichever treadmill you decide to buy fits in the space where you intend to use it. Some high-weight capacity treadmills fold while others don’t, so you’ll want to be sure that whichever one you take home works for you and your space. Floor space and ceiling height are both important as many treadmills incline. Factoring in the step-up height, incline range, and your height is a great way to help determine that you’ll have enough head clearance to use the treadmill.

Also, some treadmills are heavy and are not meant to be used on upper-level floors. You’ll want to check out the weight as well as the size, too.

Content

Although it isn’t the most important factor, content can range greatly on treadmills. Some come with touch screens that offer subscription content, while others have less tech and more basic features. Checking out the content that the treadmill comes with is a good idea to make sure the features are what you prefer that way you can take home a treadmill that you’ll love and use regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are treadmills good for obese people?

Treadmills are a great piece of cardio exercise equipment for most people. The fact that you can adjust and control their speed for different walking, jogging, and running paces makes them adaptable for most people, no matter their size or fitness level. Treadmills also come with different weight capacities to be more accessible to users.

What happens if you are too heavy for a treadmill?

If you purchase a treadmill that has a lower weight capacity than you, it could impact the longevity of the machine. This could cause problems with the motor, like overheating, and cause the treadmill to break and not work. It’s important to make sure the weight capacity is appropriate for you.

What is the highest weight capacity for a treadmill?

The highest weight capacity that we normally see on motorized treadmills is 400 lbs. Some manual treadmills, like the TrueForm Runner, have a higher 450 lb capacity while running and a 700 lb capacity while walking.