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

If you're training for your next race, or simply want to fit in some exercise at home, a treadmill could make your goals more achievable. But it's important to find one that folds to save space.

To fold a treadmill, first raise the deck toward the display. Then, lock the latch knob carefully to ensure it is secured.

Compact Design

They can be folded and stored under a bed in a closet, or under a bed when not in use. They still offer plenty of space to run. They are generally less expensive than non-folding treadmills and can aid in keeping you active during days when the weather is bad or when you're working.

To determine if a treadmill with folds is the best fit for you, consider your goals for fitness and what you're planning to use it for. Certain models are made for walking only, whereas others can be used for gentle jogging or even shorter runs. Before you purchase a treadmill make sure to check the speed range and size.

Non-folding treadmills are usually heavier, which makes them more stable at high speeds. But folding treadmills also have a design that can make them less sturdy, especially if they are used by runners who are pushing themselves to the max. Find a treadmill that folds with safety features such as an emergency stop button that will ensure you can easily shut it down in the event of a loss of control.

If you're planning to purchase a foldable treadmill that is safe for a runner make sure you choose one with a powerful motor and an ample deck size. In general, the 2.5 hp motor is sufficient for casual runners and occasional sprinters however serious runners should look for at least 3.5 HP to ensure they can comfortably run at high speeds. Find a treadmill that has built-in cushions to lessen the knees' impact to allow you to run for longer durations without fear of injury.

Convenient Storage

If you live in a small space, you need to be able of folding your treadmill when not being used. The majority of treadmills that fold have wheels that can be easily removed from the area where you workout to allow space for other activities for instance, when your kids return from school or when you have dinner guests arriving later on. Non-folding treadmills need more space since they are made to be permanent fixtures.

Although many treadmills that fold up are designed for smaller spaces, they don't skimp on features or performance. For example, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill that folds flat folds up quickly due to its patented EasyLift assist mechanism. This treadmill has an 3.5 CHP engine, and the 15% incline as well as an 3% decline.

Sunny Health & Fitness also offers the SF-T7632, a treadmill that folds. This treadmill can easily be put in a closet, or under a table, and it still offers an incredibly comfortable running deck. Its small size and sturdy design makes it an ideal option for those looking to do some light exercise at work or while watching television.

If you're considering buying a foldable treadmill, be sure to check out the product description for more details about how it can be folded and put away. It is also important to examine the frame's weight and dimensions and also the added transport features such as wheels for transportation and carry handles that are built-in.

Travelle Gaines, a fitness instructor at Blocks Nutrition in Los Angeles She informs PEOPLE that one of the biggest obstacles to staying active is the lack of time, which makes a treadmill that folds perfectly for busy people. "It lets you get a quick run in before or after work, or even during lunch," she says.

Easy to operate

The best folding treadmills that fold flat are easy to operate, whether you're using them for a quick walk or a workout at home. Look for a console that has clear, intuitive controls like buttons for speed and incline as well as touchscreens built-in, according to Victoria Brady, an ACE-CPT for fitness brand Fyt. Find a motor with 2.0-2.5 hp if you plan on power walking and select one that supports routine running if you're a serious runner.

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

It's also worth looking for a model that offers some extra nice-to-have features like ports for USB and headphone cables as well as an accessory for your device. The Echelon Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill, for example, has an impressive and clear display that shows a ton of motivational metrics and allows you to connect it to fitness apps and monitor your heart rate, among other things.

Other features you can look for are a safety clip, which prevents the treadmill from operating when someone walks on the treadmill while it's running and a deck that automatically folds to a 45-degree angle once you lift it from the bottom of the treadmill. Also, consider a model that has gas shocks, which lets the deck lower slowly and gently instead of slamming onto the ground (like some models that do not have this technology). It is important to ensure that your new treadmill is in compliance with the safety requirements of the locale to operate it.

Safety

When you are choosing a treadmill that folds be sure to check for safety features. The majority of folding treadmills come with the safety lock that holds the deck to its place when in storage mode. This feature prevents accidental release of the deck when the machine is in use and also helps to keep children from trying to operate the treadmill.

Another important security feature to look out for is a lock on the power cord. This will ensure that the treadmill has been turned off and away from reach at the conclusion of each workout. This is especially important if you have children who might be enticed by the temptation to turn on the treadmill or play with the cords. If the treadmill isn't properly secured and shut off after each use it might be able to be turned on accidentally. Or children could pull the cord and cause it to accelerate.

It is also crucial to ensure that you place the treadmill fold up away from drapes and curtains that could be hung close to it when you are using the treadmill. This could result in a trip hazard and increase the risk of sustaining injuries. Additionally, it is recommended that you wear the right shoes when running on the treadmill. This will reduce the risk of tripping over objects at home and also aid in maintaining a steady pace when walking or running on a treadmill.

It is also a good idea to ensure that the treadmill is folded up and secured prior to leaving it in public areas such as gyms or schools. This can help reduce the risk of injury to other students or patrons who aren't used to the operation of a treadmill or the level of noise produced by one in a busy environment.

Stability

Folding treadmills have a lower center-of-gravity than other treadmills that makes them more stable. This means that it is less likely to tip over, causing injury to you if you accidentally step off the treadmill or lean too far back. It takes up less space and is essential if you have a small space or a home. It is easy to transport a treadmill that could be folded up. This is a huge advantage if you intend to take it on workout trips or business travel. It is also a good idea for you to choose an adjustable treadmill that has wheels and a carry handle. This will make it easier to move around.

It is important to consider the speed range and incline function when selecting a treadmill that folds. If you intend to use the treadmill for running, a maximum speed of about 7.5 mph is likely sufficient. If you are an athlete in competition you might require an engine with greater speed.

You should also check whether the treadmill can fold and unfold easily. Some models require two people to collapse and fold, while others can be folded by one person. The best treadmills will have clear instructions on how to fold it correctly. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular maintenance and cleaning the unit.

While some treadmills that fold are easy to store and operate however, some can be difficult to maneuver. Always study the user's manual attentively to learn how the machine operates. You should then try using the machine before deciding if it is suitable for your fitness needs.