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

A treadmill can help you reach your goals, whether you're training for a race, or just want to squeeze in some exercise. But it's important to choose one that folds to make space.

To fold a treadmill, simply lift the deck toward the display. Then, lock the latch knob with care to secure it.

Compact Design

Foldable treadmills can be 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 generally less expensive than non-folding ones, and they can help you stay active during times when the weather isn't ideal or when your schedule is hectic.

To determine if a treadmill with folds is the right fit for you, consider your fitness goals and what you plan to use it for. Some models are designed for walking only, while others can be used for light jogging or even short runs. If you're planning to perform an exercise that involves running or faster speeds, it's important to determine the treadmill's speed range as well as motor size prior to making a purchase.

Non-folding treadmills are generally significantly heavier, which allows them to remain stable even at high speeds. However, they also come with a design that could make them less sturdy particularly when they are used by runners who push themselves to the limits. Look for a folding treadmill with safety features, such as an emergency stop button that will ensure you can shut it down easily should you lose control.

Select a treadmill that has an efficient motor, and a large deck if you want to buy a folding model that is safe for runners. A 2.5 hp motor will suffice for casual joggers or sprinters. For serious runners, however, must look for at least 3.5 horsepower to ensure they are able to run at high speeds comfortably. Additionally, you should look for treadmills with built-in cushioning to reduce the force on your knees, so you can train for longer periods of time without worrying about injury.

Convenient Storage

If you live in a tiny space, you need to be able to fold up your treadmill when not in use. The majority of treadmills that fold have wheels and can be easily rolled away from the place you work out to allow space for other activities, such as when the kids come home from school or you have dinner guests arriving later. Non-folding models usually require more space as they are built to be permanent fixtures in your home.

Many treadmills that fold are compact and space-saving, but they don't sacrifice speed or features. For example, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill folds up quickly due to its patent-pending EasyLift assist mechanism. The treadmill also features an 3.5 CHP motor, and an incline of 15% and a 3 percent decline to help increase your workout.

Another option is the SF-T7632 folding treadmill from Sunny Health & Fitness. It can be stored in a closet or under a table and it has a comfortable running deck. Its small size and robust construction make it an excellent option for those looking to get some light exercise while working or watching television.

If you're considering buying a foldable treadmill make sure to check out the product description for more details about how it can be folded up and put away. You'll also want to examine the frame's dimensions and weight and also the added transport features like transportation wheels and carry handles built-in.

Travelle Gaines is a fitness instructor in Los Angeles at Blocks Nutrition. She said to PEOPLE that the biggest obstacle in staying active was the lack of time. A folding treadmill is the perfect option for those who are busy. She says a treadmill that folds allows people to run before or after work, or even at lunch.

Easy to Operate

The best folding treadmill folding treadmills can be operated with ease regardless of whether they are used for short runs or a home workout. Victoria Brady, ACE-CPT and fitness brand Fyt recommends a console that has simple controls, such as buttons for speed or incline, or touchscreen programming. Look for a motor with 2.0-2.5 HP if you intend on using power walking and select one that is able to support routine running if you're an avid runner.

A good treadmill that folds should also come with wheels to make it easier to move it around your space, says Sydney Bueckert, an NASM-CPT and the lead trainer in-house at Sunny Health & Fitness. "It's a lot easier to take off and on the machine with wheels, so you don't have to worry about moving it yourself."

It's also worth looking for a model that offers additional features that are desirable, like ports for USB and headphone cables, as well as a device holder. The Echelon Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill for instance, comes with a crisp and bright display that shows a ton of motivational indicators and allows you to connect to fitness apps and track your heart rate, among other things.

Other features you can consider are an safety clip that prevents the treadmill from operating when someone walks on it while it's being used and the deck automatically folds to a 45-degree angle once you lift it off the bottom of the treadmill. You should also consider a treadmill with gas shocks, which allows the deck to lower slowly and gently, instead of hitting the ground (like some models do without this feature). It is important to ensure that your new treadmill is in compliance with the safety standards of the area for its operation, too.

Safety

When selecting a treadmill fold up (a cool way to improve), you want to be sure that it is equipped with safety features. The majority of folding treadmills have a safety lock to keep the deck in in storage mode. This feature prevents the deck from being released accidentally when the machine is utilized. It also helps keep children from being around the treadmill.

A power cord lock is a second important safety feature. This will help ensure that the treadmill is off and out of reach after each workout session. This is especially important if you have kids who may be tempted to turn on the treadmill or play with the cords. If the treadmill isn't properly turned off and locked after every use, it may be turned on accidentally or children could accidentally pull the cord and cause the treadmill to speed up.

It is also crucial to ensure that you put the treadmill away from drapes and curtains that might hang close to it while you're using the treadmill. This could increase the chance of injury and create a trip-hazard. It is also recommended that you use a treadmill in the correct footwear. This will decrease the chance of falling and tripping over objects in your home and will also assist you to maintain a steady stride when running or walking on the treadmill.

It is also a good idea to fold up the treadmill and secure it before leaving it in a public space like the gym or at school. This will help to minimize the chance of injury to other students or patrons who aren't used to the operation of a treadmill and/or the loudness of one in a noisy environment.

Stability

A treadmill that folds has a lower center of gravity than a treadmill that is not folding which makes it more stable. This means that it's less likely to tip over, causing injury to you if you accidentally step off the machine or lean too far back. It occupies less space, which is important for those who live in a small apartment or a home. It is easy to transport a treadmill that could be folded up. This is a huge benefit for those who want to take your treadmill for workout or business trips. In addition, it is an ideal idea to search for a treadmill that folds up and includes a carry handle and transportation wheels to make moving it around easier.

It is important to consider the speed range and incline functions when choosing a folding treadmill. If you plan to run on the treadmill, a speed of 7.5 miles per hour is likely to suffice. However, if you're a competitive runner it could be necessary to choose the fastest motor.

Additionally, you should ensure that the treadmill is easy to fold and unfold. Some models require two people to collapse and fold, while others can be easily folded by one person. The most reliable treadmills will come with clear instructions on how to fold it correctly. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular maintenance and cleaning.

Some treadmills that fold are simple to store and use however others are difficult to use. Always read the manual to fully understand how the machine operates. You should then practice using the machine before deciding if it is right for your fitness needs.