Treadmill for Weight Loss: Which One Is Best in 2024

How to choose a treadmill for weight loss. Explained by the specialist.

Treadmill helps not only to lose weight, but also to develop endurance, relieve stress, strengthen the body, immunity and cardiovascular system. That is why the choice of such a simulator should be taken very seriously.

Types of treadmills

According to the principle of operation, treadmills are divided into electric and mechanical.

Electric

Such treadmills are plugged into an ordinary outlet and work from an electric motor. Most often, electric treadmills already have built-in training programs (depending on the price, the number of built-in programs can be up to 50). Here you can control and keep a certain pace and adjust the angle of incline.

The most modern models allow you to enter your personal parameters into the program (weight, height, gender) and control the intensity of exercise, taking into account your physical abilities. In case of a fall, as a rule, a special safety key, which stops the running belt at once, is provided.

The advantages include also the smoothness of the runners, so your muscles will not strain unnecessarily.

Choosing such a treadmill, we advise to pay attention to its size, built-in programs, functions and maximum load.

The price depends on the type, power of the electric motor and the number of programs and can range from a few hundred dollars to $10k and above.

“If you need aerobic training (running, walking, swimming, cycling, active games, etc.), it is best to choose an electric treadmill: since the floor here is electrically driven, the muscular tension is also reduced.

Electric treadmills are suitable for people who have some health problems: painful joints, overweight, spinal injuries, etc.”

Reyus Mammadli, HealthCare Advisor

LCD DISPLAY: The workout devices treadmill for home is equipped w/ LCD display that shows running/training data such as run time, distance, speed, calories burned. It likewise has grip sensors for pulse monitoring & 0.6-6.5 MPH adjustable speed

12 PRE-SET PROGRAM: This electrical treadmill exercise devices running machine for exercise has 12 preset training modes for fast exercise sessions and 4 selectable incline levels so you can change the intensity of your exercise

FOLDING STYLE: SereneLife compact portable & foldable slim running device fold up treadmills for home functions a simple electrical plug-in next generation low profile style and it has a hydraulic folding system for easy storage/setup for a home gym

BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY: The treadmill workout device is compatible with bluetooth and works w/ smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc. Get gotten in touch with the ‘FitShow’ and Kinomap app and linked to ‘HealthKit’ to tape & collect activity data

Mechanical

These treadmills do not need to be powered. They are started by the person training, and the speed of the running belt also depends on the speed of the athlete. Unlike electric treadmills, there are no built-in training programs, and the display usually shows only basic indicators: heart rate, time, speed and the number of calories spent while running. But they are enough to build an optimal training program.

Mechanical treadmills are as close as possible to the conditions of running on the street. But for safety and convenience of use here, as a rule, handrails are provided.

The advantages of such exercisers include a small weight of constructions (from 90 to 220 lbs). This is the best option for beginners and people engaged in sports to maintain physical fitness.

When choosing a mechanical treadmill, consider your body weight. People who are overweight are not recommended to buy lightweight fitness equipment. As a rule, treadmills for home use are designed for a person’s weight up to 242 lbs. People whose weight exceeds these figures, it is recommended to buy professional equipment: it is more stable and can withstand a person’s weight up to almost 400 lbs.

Important! Mechanical treadmills should not be used by people with various leg diseases.

“People who are overweight, it is better to start training with an electric treadmill, as overweight is already a big load on the joints and spine. If you start running right away on a mechanical treadmill, you can get a lot of health problems.”

Reyus Mammadli, HealthCare Advisor

The InMotion®T900 Manual Treadmill is the service for getting a treadmill workout at home without the high cost. With double weighted flywheels, you get a smooth exercise at a walk or run– you set the pace– while the screen tracks your range, workout time, speed and calories burned. With no electrical outlet needed and no motor to keep, you can use it anywhere.

Change your exercise strength by selecting one of two slope positions, 10 degrees or 8 degrees. Light-weight with wheels for easy portability. Supported by müüv This product likewise includes free access to müüv, the wise audio coaching app. müüv assists you move 500+ minutes monthly with the right mix of cardio, strength, and versatility for a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

You’ll get clever audio coaching that is personalized to you, advances for you, and is fun to do. The all-in-one app includes a follow-along assembly video, personalized workouts tailored to the equipment you own, and an ad-free music listening experience from iHeartRadio.

Download the müüv app on the Apple App Store or the Google Play store.

Magnetic

This is a kind of mechanical tracks. The canvas with them, as well as with mechanical ones, begins to move after the first steps of a person. However, these designs have a special magnet that creates resistance. This forces a person to exert more effort while running.

The magnetic tension allows the webbing to move more smoothly and silently. Moreover, here you can adjust the load level yourself without changing the angle of the deck.

Getting injured on such treadmills is extremely difficult: the movement of the belt is completely dependent on the efforts of the person, so as soon as he stops, stops and the treadmill.

Magnetic treadmills are more suitable for those who have been engaged in sports for a long time. Beginners are better to start with electric ones, so as not to put the body in a stressful state because of the heavy load on the muscles.

The Confidence Magnetic treadmill offers unbeatable value for those who want to work out in the convenience of their own home. With 8 adjustable magnetic resistance levels and a simple and easy folding/storage mechanism, this is the ideal personal running machine.

Quiet and smooth magnetic resistance with 8 adjustable levels to tailor your workout level. Fixed gentle incline .

Multi-function computer including speed, distance, calories, odometer, time and scan functions. Easily transported and stored – simple locking pin mechanism with built in wheels for ease of movement

Suitable for users up to 220lbs. 12 month warranty

12 month warranty. Product footprint : 19.1″ x 47.2″

Size when folded : 48″ (h) x 7.9″ (d). Box dimensions : 52.1″ x 24.4″ x 9.3″. Weight : 46.9lbs

Folding

Folding can be both mechanical and electric treadmills. These are ideal for smaller living spaces. Folding treadmills are less noisy and take up very little space when folded. They weigh up to 45 lbs, while conventional electric treadmills can weigh over 150 lbs.

There are models with and without handrails.

Before buying a treadmill, it is best to consult with a physical therapist, as choosing the right trainer should be based on your health indicators. If it is impossible to consult, pay attention to the shock-absorbing system of treadmills. It absorbs the shock load, which leads to joint problems.

There are models with and without handrails.

“With regular exercise, any treadmill will help you lose weight. But remember: exercise requires energy, which the body gets from calories.

The formula for losing weight is simple: a proper diet + any treadmill = weight loss.

Reyus Mammadli, HealthCare Advisor

Before buying a treadmill, it is best to consult with a physical therapist, as choosing the right trainer should be based on your health indicators. If it is impossible to consult, pay attention to the shock-absorbing system of treadmills. It absorbs shock loads that lead to joint problems.

Best Treadmill for Weight Loss: Editor’s Choice

I, Reyus Mammadli, manager and author of whattdw.com, have chosen a gorgeous treadmill for you that you will definitely like if you are still undecided about your choice. This trend started a couple of years ago and is still catching on in 2024:

WalkingPad A1 is also called space walking machine, won the 2019 Red Dot Award and IF Award because of excellent outlook design, outstanding production details, smart foldable concept and intelligent operating experience.

M(Manual) mode Is operated by the remote controller to On/Off, Start/Stop, Acceleration/Deceleration. A(Auto)mode is operated by the user’s footstep to Start/Stop, Acceleration/Deceleration.

By the high Precision pressure sensor in the walking treadmill, you can control the WalkingPad in high, medium or slow speed, through footstep on the front(acceleration) zone, middle(uniform velocity) zone or tail (deceleration) zone.

With the wear-resistant anti-slip walking belt, and the noise-reduction multi-layer structure, you can walk or jog comfortably at home or office, without disturbing families, neighbors, colleagues or even yourself.

Important parameters of treadmills

Motor power

The motor keeps the track rotating and determines how long a treadmill will last. The higher the motor power, the longer the treadmill will last: if the motor can easily turn the track even at high speeds, it will wear out more slowly.

The power of the motor also determines the maximum speed the track can reach and the weight of a person it can support. When running fast, you need a high level of speed, which means a powerful motor.

Typically, engine power is measured in hp (horsepower). It is also related to the maximum weight of the user. The more powerful the engine, the more weight the exerciser can handle. Pay attention to this point in the specifications and ask a specialist what hp figure will be optimal for you.

The motors of home running trainers, as a rule, have a power of 1 to 5 hp.

There are two power ratings:

• Constant – This is the power of the motor when running continuously. This indicator is worth paying attention to in the first place. For walking the constant power should be at least 1.75 hp, for running – at least 2 hp.
• Peak is the maximum speed during the acceleration of the blade. This parameter is stable only for a short period of time and is not so important when choosing a trainer.

Running deck sizes

The height of the runner, their physical capabilities and training plans all have an influence on determining the optimal size of the running surface.

Treadmills that are 15 to 16 inches wide and 48 to 55 inches long are considered optimal. Such exercisers are best used at speeds of 3.5 to 6 m/h.

For running at speeds of 6 to 10 m/h, it is recommended that you purchase a running blade that is 16 to 18 inches wide and 55 inches or longer. For taller people (5.9 ft and up), a treadmill with a 59-inch length will be optimal.

Important! The faster the run, the longer the stride. Consequently, the longer should be the track itself.

Permissible load on the deck

The treadmill has a deck, which is the plate around which the blade rotates.

This part of the treadmill carries the load of the person running on it. And it is the thickness and elasticity of the deck that determines the load capacity of the blade.

It is recommended to buy a treadmill with a deck that is at least 7-10 inches thick.

The load level is also influenced by the angle of inclination of the platform. The incline angle is a percentage of the angle of 90 degrees. It can be both positive (imitation uphill) and negative (imitation downhill). The steeper the angle of incline, the more energy is expended by the person training.

Weight Loss Tips: Adjusting Training Intensity

To lose excess weight, walk regularly on a treadmill at a moderate pace (3 to 4 mph). Start with 30 minutes a day and gradually increase the time to 1.5 hours. Walking is especially suitable for overweight people, as it does not overload the cardiovascular system and allows you to burn calories.

As a rule, the body gets used to training after 1.5 months. It is from this moment it will be possible to increase the speed and change the angle of ascent.

“Any movement helps you lose weight. Therefore, a treadmill is a great helper if you want to lose weight. Moreover, it is an ideal option if you do not have time for the gym.”

Additional treadmill features

Changing the inclination angle of the deck

We’ve covered what the angle of the deck is above. This feature helps to engage many muscles while you run and keep your body trimmed.

Some treadmills change the incline angle automatically or by pressing a button on the control panel. This allows you to keep your mind on anything other than running. The angle of incline usually varies from 0° to 15°. There are values higher than 15°, but such treadmills are designed for professional athletes. There are treadmills where the function of changing the incline angle is absent.

“As the incline angle increases, so does the workout. The greater the incline, the greater the load, which means more energy is expended. This leads to shedding excess weight sooner.”

Cushioning

A good cushioning system helps compensate for the impact load on the spine and knee joints and simulates running on a dirt surface. Walking has a lower impact load than running. So when choosing a treadmill with cushioning, consider the intensity of your future workouts.

What cushioning systems are available:

• Elastomers are polymer spacers that are placed between the deck and the treadmill. The larger the elastomer, the greater the load it is willing to take. Elastomers generally range in thickness from 0.2 to 1.2 to 4 inches.
• Springs – take most of the shock loads and are located between the deck and the track frame.
• More expensive trainers can be equipped with additional shock-absorbing cushions, which also help to reduce the shock load.

What else you should pay attention to:

• The thickness of the deck should be 0.6-0.8 inches for running workouts and 0,8-1 inches for walking on the trainer. So even long workouts will not bring discomfort.
• Cushioning system: springy is suitable for walking, rigid – for running.

Visualization of data during training

While running, you should keep track of your health and training intensity. To do so, there are programs on the machines’ onboard computer that display the following data:

• Heart rate: this information is especially necessary for people with cardiovascular disease.
• Time: helps you keep track of the time you spend working out. If you train less or longer, you will not achieve the desired effect or may have health problems.
• Speed: directly affects your results. Taking into account your goals and physical abilities, a certain speed is chosen, which should be adhered to during the workout.
• Number of calories burned: the more intensively you expend energy and replenish it, the faster the optimal metabolism is established.

Important! Excessive exertion can be detrimental to your health! If you feel pain, uneven pulse, heaviness in the chest, nausea or dizziness, stop the workout immediately.

Safe shutdown

Some treadmills have a safety key, a cord that attaches one end to the treadmill and the other end to a person’s clothing. In the event that you step off, this key reacts instantly and the treadmill shuts off.

Handrails

Handrails help with balance and safety in the early stages of getting to know the treadmill. They are also necessary for people who are physically unable to keep their balance.

Special mode for weight loss

Some treadmills have built-in programs designed to burn fat. All you need to do is choose a program and start working out.

More Tips How to Use Treadmill for Successful Weight Loss

The right way to run at home

1. Place the trainer so that it stands at a decent distance (at least 50 cm) from walls, cabinets and other objects. This is necessary so that you have the opportunity to jump off the treadmill at any time.
2. Remember that the body is able to burn more calories in the morning, so medium-intensity training is better done at the beginning of the day.
3. Larger loads are better planned for the day or evening.
4. One hour before the workout, it is recommended to eat whole-grain porridge, salad or dairy products (cottage cheese, yogurt). You should not work out on a full or hungry stomach. Firstly, it is detrimental to your health. Secondly, it will not contribute to weight loss. In 1.5 hours after training you can eat something protein (chicken breast, beef, sea fish).
5. Be sure to do a warm-up before starting your workout.
6. Monitor your heart rate during your workout. In order to lose weight, your heart rate should be 60-70% of your maximum, which is calculated using the formula: (220 – your age) * 0.6. For example, you are 33 years old: take 33 from 220 and multiply the obtained value by 0.6. You will have a pulse rate of 112.2. Then you only have to ensure that during the workout your heart rate does not exceed or lose the desired value.

What kind of clothes and shoes is better to choose

Clothing should not constrain your movements. Choose the most comfortable for you sportswear. Shoes should only be athletic! Choose special sneakers for running: they have a shock-absorbing system, thanks to which the force of the impact of the foot on the ground is absorbed and the weight of the runner is evenly distributed over the entire area of the foot. Never run in socks or shoes with slippery soles! These are very dangerous.

How to choose the load

If you just start training, you should choose the lowest level of load so as not to overload your body. Then gradually increase the degree of load.

It is recommended to consult a specialist to make an individual program.

A short check-list

1. For those who only need aerobic training, electric treadmills are the best option. This is also the best option for people with injuries or any health problems.
2. Beginners and people who exercise to keep fit are advised to buy a mechanical treadmill.
3. Electric treadmills often have built-in weight loss programs that help make weight loss even more effective.
4. Before buying a treadmill, it is advisable to consult a specialist, make an individual program and, based on these data, choose the most suitable treadmill for you.