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Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is vital in all stages of life, especially as we age. A treadmill is one convenient way to keep up with your health. Treadmills provide numerous benefits for seniors, like maintaining strength, keeping the heart strong and healthy, and improving balance.
If you’re a senior with a cardio goal, you’ve come to the right place! Our experts put together this list of the best treadmills for seniors to help you find the perfect one. We’ve compiled this list with critical factors in mind.
We carefully considered each treadmill’s build and features to pick the best treadmills for seniors. Cushioning, accessibility, and console navigation were the top features we reviewed.
Sole F63 Treadmill
What We Like:
- Easy storage and transport
- Folding frame
- 325-lb weight capacity
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Reasonable price point
- Simple console
We associate Sole treadmills with hearty, workhorse machines that last, and the F63 is no exception. The 3.0 HP motor and large 20” x 60” deck make walking, jogging, and light running possible. Most users will also appreciate the low 8” step-up height.
The Sole F63 has a maximum incline of 12% divided into 15 levels and a maximum speed of 12 mph. The firm cushioning makes tackling the upper limits more challenging, but the F63 performs best at slower speeds. Still, you should expect a challenging workout from the F63.
The Sole F63 is very affordable, considering all of its monumental features. It has a simple LCD console and large adjustment buttons that make controlling it convenient. We like using the onboard programs and free Sole+ programs available through the app on your phone or tablet. The device rack allows you to see a device or other material.
Check out the Sole F63 if you’re looking for an excellent treadmill for a senior.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F63.
Interested in the Sole F63?
NordicTrack 1750
What We Like:
- Cushioned running deck
- 3.5 CHP motor
- -3% to 12% incline
- 300-lb weight capacity
- iFIT compatibility
- 14” touchscreen display
Areas For Improvement:
- Limited onboard training options
- Challenging to move
In addition to being comfortable to use, the 1750 has a massive 20” wide and 60” long deck that accommodates all kinds of use. It has a slim profile and streamlined design that’s functional and practical. We like the textured side handles that keep your hands from slipping and the singular horizontal handle in front that’s accessible to grab when needed.
The NordicTrack 1750’s 14” touchscreen adjusts to make it easy to see. Plus, quick-touch adjustment buttons on either side of the screen control the treadmill with a swift touch of a button. The screen provides access to iFIT training content with its 30-day free trial. iFIT offers professional guidance in fitness and overall health through numerous instructor-led classes.
iFit isn’t required to use the treadmill. While the onboard content is limited, you can train in the manual program without Wi-Fi or a subscription. With Wi-Fi and a free iFIT account, you can also try a featured iFIT workout.
Seniors who love to walk or run will get a lot of use out of the 1750.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack 1750.
Interested in the NordicTrack 1750?
Horizon T101
What We Like:
- Great value for a low price
- Moderate Cushioning
- 300-lb weight capacity
- 10% maximum incline
- Quiet and responsive motor
- No subscription required
While not built for heavy training, the T101 can handle walking and light jogging. The 2.5 CHP motor responds well to this level of use. The deck space is decent at 20” x 55”. The step-up height is 8”, making stepping on and off the treadmill easy. The deck folds up to save space and moves with the attached transportation wheels. However, it requires a bit of effort.
The T101’s three LED screens show your incline level, speed level, time, calories burned, distance, and heart rate. The console has large buttons for programming workouts and changing speed and incline. Overall, the console is intuitive and easy to reach. We appreciate the horizontal handle with built-in pulse grips that take your heart rate when you grasp them.
The T101 is a high-value machine budget shoppers won’t want to miss. This treadmill epitomizes a no-frills machine that lets you get straight to work.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon T101.
Interested in the Horizon T101?
Sunny Health & Fitness Running Treadmill
What We Like:
- Supportive handrails
- Low step-up height
- Reasonable price
- Simple digital monitor
- Built-in programs
- Lightweight
Areas For Improvement:
- Less durable than others
- Short warranty
This Sunny treadmill does not require a subscription and has built-in training programs to help you reach your fitness goals. You can use the free Sunny Fit app if you want even more exercise content. It has trainer-led workouts you can follow from your tablet or phone. A handy device rack holds your device securely on the Running treadmill’s console.
Despite its label as the “Running Treadmill,” we prefer that most exercisers use this treadmill for walking. It has a smaller deck than most treadmills at 18.9” wide and 47.2” long compared to our 20” x 60” running surface standard. The motor is 2.5 HP, which is also better for walking than running. The speed is capped at 8.5 mph, allowing you to pick up the pace if you want to.
This treadmill has a low step-up height, making it easy to get on and off. It’s also very lightweight, with transport wheels to help you move it around if needed. However, it does not fold, so it may not be as easy to transport as others. Overall, the build of this treadmill is sufficient for light to moderate use, but some of these factors limit its effectiveness for heavy use.
Interested in the Sunny Health & Fitness?
NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
What We Like:
- Soft cushioned deck
- Lightweight with transport wheels
- 10” touchscreen
- Quiet motor
- Compatible with iFIT
- Folding frame
Areas For Improvement:
- Limited onboard training programs
- Not ideal for running
We recommend the EXP 10i for walking and jogging. Its 2.75 CHP motor is quiet and consistent. Plus, its deck is 20” wide and 55” long to accommodate most walking and jogging strides. This model isn’t best for running but is suitable for slower paces. The deck’s nice cushioning feels soft underfoot. So, if you have joint issues, this is a model to check out.
The console, with its 10” touchscreen, is straightforward to use. Being from NordicTrack, the EXP 10i supports an optional iFIT for guided workouts. iFIT offers thousands of trainer-led workout classes to entertain you on the EXP 10i. The class library is easy to navigate and see on the touchscreen.
iFIT has trainer-led outdoor workouts that make walking or jogging on the EXP 10i fun. The automatic speed and incline adjustments allow you to concentrate on your exercise rather than pushing buttons. iFIT will learn your fitness level over time, so each class is attuned to you. If you prefer other entertainment, the EXP 10i has a tablet rack for your device.
If you’re a senior looking for a treadmill with a good amount of tech and soft cushioning that’s easier to move when needed, check out the NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack EXP 10i.
Interested in the NordicTrack EXP 10i?
Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill
What We Like:
-
Compact folding
300-lb weight capacity
Transport wheels
20.5” x 60” deck
Stores horizontal or vertical
Supports walking and running
Areas For Improvement:
-
Less supportive handles
12-month warranty
We like that the Echelon Stride-6 has 12 incline levels and has sufficient cushioning for shock absorption. The belt is 20.5” wide and 60” long. Most users should be able to enjoy walking and jogging. The 3.0 HP motor should support most training routines but the most strenuous.
The minimal console displays your essential workout metrics. Despite its lack of a touchscreen, an Echelon membership is all but required for the Stride-6. You may need a free Echelon account to use the Stride-6. It lacks onboard training programs, so we strongly recommend this treadmill for seniors who want guided training content.
The treadmill has preset speed and incline settings to make adjusting it efficient, and there are buttons on both of the side handles for quick adjustment. The horizontal support bar has EKG pulse grips. Cup holders, storage compartments, and a device rack offer plenty of storage space. The Echelon Stride-6 has your most essential features right on the console.
The Echelon Stride-6 is for seniors who want a compact treadmill with guided training classes. It is best for the tech-inclined user compared to most of the other treadmills on this list.
Interested in the Echelon Stride-6?
ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
What We Like
- Folding frame
- 10” touchscreen
- Front-facing speakers and Bluetooth audio
- Many quick-adjust buttons
- Trainer-led classes from iFIT
Areas For Improvement:
- Limited onboard training content
- Loud incline mechanism
The ProForm Pro 2000 has a sturdy steel frame and uprights. The front horizontal handle extends across the front of the deck to provide stability on the front of the deck, while the side handles provide lateral support. The deck is a little higher than others on this list, but the supportive handles can help users maintain their balance when stepping on and off the deck.
The 10” touchscreen is centered and large enough to see its content. The Pro 2000 comes with a free 30-day trial of iFIT, which offers trainer-led classes. The Pro 2000 can be used with or without the subscription, but iFIT provides a complete training experience for your body and mind. You can take guided walks, meditation, yoga classes, and more when you subscribe.
The ProForm Pro 2000 does not require a subscription (though we recommend it). You can train in manual mode without a subscription or Wi-Fi. With a free iFIT account and Wi-Fi, you can access a featured iFIT class. Unfortunately, the Pro 2000 does not have a tablet rack for streaming content on a phone or tablet.
Overall, we like the ProForm Pro 2000 for seniors who are motivated to stay active and reach their goals. It helps that the soft treadmill cushioning is pleasant, too.
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Pro 2000.
Interested in the ProForm Pro 2000?
Sole F85 Treadmill
What We Like:
- 400-lb weight capacity
- 22” x 60” running deck
- Powerful 4.0 HP motor
- Built-in apps and programs
- Folding frame
- Free Sole+ classes
Areas For Improvement:
- Firm running deck
- Non-adjustable screen
If you’re looking to run many miles, you’re in luck. The Sole F85 has an impressive 4.0 HP motor designed for home use. It also handles heavy use because of its hearty construction. While you’re getting in workouts, you’ll have plenty of choices for making adjustments. There are buttons along the screen and switches on the handlebars.
If you want entertainment while using the Sole F85, the 15.6” touchscreen has preloaded apps to stream Netflix, Hulu, and more. Twelve preloaded apps are ready for you to log into and start watching. If you prefer not to be distracted, you can simply step on and go. The low step-up height is only 8”.
We really enjoy using the Sole F85 for steady-state walks and runs. Kaleigh likes putting on her favorite shows and movies and just letting the minutes tick by. The console has plenty of storage, so she can keep everything she needs (phone, water, a snack) on hand. She also likes to stash her Kindle in the tablet rack for even more content options.
The Sole F85 never gets boring. It has too many features! Its lifetime frame and motor warranty mean this treadmill will last a long time.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F85.
Interested in the Sole F85?
What to Consider When Buying a Treadmill For a Senior
Now that you’ve learned more about each treadmill we recommend for seniors, it’s time to learn what you should consider when determining which one is best for you.
Safety
Knowing how to use a treadmill properly before purchasing one is important because treadmills can be dangerous when misused. We encourage you to clip the end of the safety key to your clothing while you’re using a treadmill. This way, if you lose your balance or fall, the belt will immediately stop. All well-built treadmills include a safety key.
It’s also important to know your limitations. If you require more stability, especially when using a treadmill, don’t get one with short or non-existent side handles. If you can’t lift objects over 10 lbs, then a treadmill that folds manually should be out of the question unless you can store it unfolded at all times.
If you’re new to using a treadmill, recovering from an injury, or have physical ailments, consult your doctor to be sure a treadmill is right for you. You can read our full treadmill safety guide here.
Cushioning
Many treadmills have shocks that cushion the deck to protect your joints. Some have more cushioning than others, resulting in some treadmill decks feeling softer. Running and walking generate forces that could be hard on the joints. A treadmill’s shock absorption can minimize these impacts.
In our reviews, we test the level of cushioning in every treadmill and compare it to others we’ve tested. We also describe how the cushioning feels so you know before you buy the treadmill. NordicTrack has some of the softest cushioning we’ve run on, which is optimal for those looking for a friendlier option for their joints.
Running Surface
For most users, a 60” long deck is plenty for walking and running. 55” long decks are great for walking and jogging; however, users with longer running strides might not find this length spacious enough for running.
For seniors, we encourage looking into running surfaces at least 20” wide. We’ve found that this deck width provides enough room, so you don’t have to worry about space. A larger running surface should provide users who struggle to maintain their balance more peace of mind and trust in their machine. A large surface will give you plenty of room to move comfortably.
Step-up Height
The step-up height is the height of the deck from the floor when it is at a flat, 0% grade. It might not seem like much, but stepping on and off a treadmill deck can require some effort, especially if the treadmill has a high step-up height. We’ve tested treadmills that have deck heights that are a foot high, which makes tripping more likely. A lower step-up height can make a big difference.
Console
Of course, you want to be able to read what your treadmill has to say. The console will display the speed and incline level you’re at and plenty of other information. Some treadmills have tiny consoles that aren’t backlit, making them hard to read. Alternatively, plenty of treadmills nowadays have large “TV-like” screens attached to them.
Sometimes, touchscreens function like televisions, but commonly, they include their own programming that requires a subscription. If you can navigate a tablet, you can easily navigate one of these screens. However, if you prefer a lower-tech option, there are plenty of LCD consoles on a wide variety of treadmills. These kinds of consoles are usually easy to use.
Motor Size
Another important factor to consider is the motor size. For instance, if you’re a runner, look for a treadmill with a 3.0 to 4.0 HP motor size. For heavy use, I recommend looking for one over 3.5 HP. Walkers can get away with weaker motors, though households with multiple users might want to go for a higher-powered motor, too.
Weight Capacity
You should choose an appropriate weight capacity you do not exceed. A high weight capacity is also a good measurement of how stable and durable a treadmill is. Choosing a treadmill with a 300 to 400-lb weight capacity is a good idea if you want a really sturdy and trustworthy machine.
Space
We recommend ensuring you have enough space for your treadmill, including an appropriate ceiling height. Folding treadmills save space, but ensure you can lift the deck to fold it. Otherwise, a treadmill that folds electronically might be a better option.
A treadmill’s portability determines whether or not it’s realistic to move your machine often and alone. Most treadmills have wheels, but some require being tilted to move, while others can be pushed. If you need a treadmill that is portable and space-saving, it’s best to get one that you can maneuver yourself.
Maintenance
Most treadmills require routine maintenance. Lubricating a treadmill requires the owner to place silicone lubricant under the treadmill belt. If you think this task would be challenging for you, consider a pre-lubricated treadmill to avoid the hassle. Other routine maintenance includes keeping the area around the treadmill clean.
The treadmill instruction manual will include all of the relevant information needed to maintain your treadmill. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure your treadmill lasts as long as possible.
Warranty
It’s also important to look into the warranty package included with the treadmill. Most brands offer nice warranties to cover the frame, parts, and labor. In addition to checking the length of the warranty, check what it covers. Some treadmill warranties may be voided if your treadmill is stored outside. A treadmill is a big purchase, and a warranty can help if you encounter problems with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are manual treadmills good for seniors?
Manual treadmills do not have motors, and your legs control the belt’s movement. So, instead of the treadmill belt moving after being plugged in and turned on, you can simply step on a manual treadmill and start walking and running. The belt goes as fast as your legs do. Learn more about these two kinds of treadmills here.
We don’t recommend manual treadmills, especially curved-belt manual treadmills, for seniors because they can be hard to use. They’re better for runners who want to train at high speeds, usually over 15 mph. We don’t recommend manual treadmills for walking because they are unsuitable for “zoning out.” They require concentration and are not beginner-friendly.
Is a treadmill or an elliptical better for seniors?
Treadmills and ellipticals can be suitable for seniors. An elliptical might be better if you have joint pain because it is low-impact. If you have balance problems, a treadmill might be the better solution because getting on and off an elliptical can be challenging. It is always a good idea to look into each machine and how it operates to determine if it aligns with your abilities.
Are treadmills good for arthritis?
Physical activity that is low to no impact doesn’t place stress on the joints but can help lubricate them. It can also help with arthritis. Walking is typically encouraged for people with arthritis because it is low-impact. Using a treadmill is a great way to get in walking.
How long should you walk on the treadmill?
Seniors and other exercisers should start with short and easy sessions on the treadmill to gradually build their endurance. Exercisers recovering from surgery, sickness, or injury could start with bouts as short as 5 minutes. Slow progress to 20 to 30-minute walks is a great goal. More advanced exercisers could consider brisk walks and runs of 45 to 60 minutes.
Is a walking pad better than a treadmill for seniors?
Walking pads may be easier for seniors to move around and set up. They may also have lower step-up heights that are easier for seniors. Unfortunately, walking pads do not have uprights with substantial handles. Traditional treadmills are better for seniors who need support to keep their balance.