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While there are plenty of budget treadmills that will make you sweat, it’s the premium features that elevate some of the best treadmills on the market. High-end treadmills stand out from low-cost options by virtue of their durable builds and connected programming, and are more likely to be a fixture of your home gym for years to come. ...
The post 8 Best High-End Treadmills of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.
While there are plenty of budget treadmills that will make you sweat, it’s the premium features that elevate some of the best treadmills on the market. High-end treadmills stand out from low-cost options by virtue of their durable builds and connected programming, and are more likely to be a fixture of your home gym for years to come.
The best high-end treadmills will feature steel frames, powerful motors, and hydraulic folding mechanisms that can withstand the slapping sneakers of marathon runners, sprinters, and all-around cardio fiends. They’re also likely to feature cutting-edge tech, like swiveling HD touchscreens, wide incline ranges, and interactive programming like iFIT or Peloton. In our quest to find the best high-end treadmills, we laced up our fanciest running shoes and took a little time to enjoy the finer things at the gym. Check out our favorite high-end treadmills below.
The 8 Best High-End Treadmills of 2024
About Our Expert:
This article has been reviewed by Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, a NASM-certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member. She reviewed the research we cite and the treadmills we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested one of these treadmills herself.
How We Tested the Best High-End Treadmills
The expert team at BarBend is made up of certified personal trainers, CrossFit professionals, nutrition coaches, and general treadmill nuts. We’ve personally tested over 40 treadmills and drew on that hands-on experience to give you the lowdown on these luxury machines. We scored each treadmill on a rating of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 different categories, including footprint and portability, technology features, durability, adjustability and ergonomics, customizations, and even the brand’s customer service.
When we used these high-end treadmills, we asked specific questions within each category to ensure you have all the details you need to make your big investment. What’s the diameter of the rollers? How much does it shake at the highest speed? Is it a non-folding treadmill? How much extra do I have to pay for interactive programming? Will a bottle of Chablis fit in the cup holders? We took into consideration these factors and more to bring you an overview of how the best high-end treadmills may fit in your budget, your house, and your lifestyle.
Best Overall High-End Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 is one of the most high-tech treadmills on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen display that can tilt to your comfort level, and rotate 360 degrees. Your purchase includes a free month of iFit, and all of your trainer-led classes offer automatic adjustments to the incline, decline, and speed settings.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
Pros
Cons
Even among high-end options, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 stands out as the best overall high-end treadmill for its wide array of premium features. The incline and decline can intensify any workout and its high-quality steel build helps ensure your investment will last. With a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor, you can count on smooth acceleration and deceleration. Like the best NordicTrack treadmills, iFIT integration comes standard and the 2450 allows you to stream your interactive cardio workouts on its swiveling 22-inch HD touchscreen.
The 2450’s -3-percent decline to 12-percent incline range opens up more possibilities for varied workouts. Our tester, a CrossFit trainer, rated its customizations 5 out 5. “I was impressed because not many treadmills have decline,” they explained, “and the max speed of 12 miles per hour surpasses industry standards.”
For $2,999, you’d be right to expect a quality build. The steel construction prompted a 4.75 out of 5 score for durability. Jake Herod — certified nutrition coach and BarBend product tester — said in his video review, which you can watch below, “Even at some of those top-end speeds, it really doesn’t wobble.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Streamers Paradise? — NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Review (2023) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXI)
“Anyone who thrives having a trainer or coach lead you along the way will love iFIT,” said Herod. Your $39.99 monthly subscription gives you access to over 16,000 live and on-demand classes, some of which can automatically adjust the speed and incline of your treadmill to match the trail or path you’re following on the 22-inch HD touchscreen.
With iFIT on board, the dynamic programming on this tread earned a perfect 5 out 5. “Subscribing to iFIT allows you to automatically save the data from workouts you did on the NordicTrack 2450 and sync it across all your devices,” he explained.
Jake following an iFit workout on the NordicTrack Commercial 2450.
“I like that it folds, but it’s not like it comes down totally flat,” our tester noted. They rated its footprint and portability 3 out of 5 and added, “If you’re planning on moving it too far, grab a friend.”
Some people may only have space for this 286-pound beast of a machine in a garage, but our tester rated the warranty 3 out of 5 because the warranty is voided if you store it in any space that isn’t climate-controlled.
Read our full NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Review.
Best High-End Treadmill for Running: ProForm Pro 9000
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.
Shop ProForm
Specs
Pros
Cons
We named the ProForm Pro 9000 our favorite high-end treadmill for running because of the 3.6 CHP motor, cushioned deck, and the stability it provides at high speeds. To push your runs even further, take advantage of the -3-percent to 12-percent incline range and 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck. Its powerful motor can also smoothly reach the 12-mile-per-hour max speed — two miles per hour faster than most treadmills.
During runs, your feet are hitting the belt harder than they would in a walking or jogging session. Like the best cushioned treadmills, the Pro 9000 works to lessen the impact on your joints with its own patented ReBound Pro cushioning system, which includes shock absorbers so you can work out longer and recover faster.
For its adjustability and ergonomics, Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member, rated it 5 out of 5. “I thought the 20-inch by 60-inch cushioned deck, plus the wide incline range made running super comfortable,” she said.
Our BarBend product tester doing an incline workout on the ProForm Pro 9000.
With an iFIT membership ($39.99 per month after your 30-day free trial), you get access to a deep library of running workouts, including a 10k training series and scenic classes that unfold against locales like the Hawaiian Islands and the Grand Canyon.
The features that make it solid for running also come with a trade-off. “Because it was so heavy, I almost had to scoot it across the room, even with the wheels,” Meier explained. The 3.5 out of 5 rating she gave its footprint and portability was the lowest score across all categories. “I’d probably just use the hydraulic folding to save space.”
Despite this hefty machine’s hefty price tag — $2,299 — Meier rated the ProForm Pro 9000’s overall value 4.5 out of 5. “I actually think the price is relatively modest considering all you get,” she pointed out. Stacked up against comparable machines like the NordicTrack 2450 at $2,999 and the Sole F80 at $1,899, this tread’s price lands squarely in the middle.
Considering that price point, she made sure to leave one last important note about storage. Like other machines in this price range, the warranty will be voided if you need to store it in an area that isn’t climate-controlled.
Read our full ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.
Best Folding High-End Treadmill: Horizon 7.4 AT
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill is ideal for anyone who likes to stream fitness classes throughout their workout. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity for streaming, this tread also features 3-zone variable response cushioning and feather-light folding to make storing this treadmill seamless.
Shop Horizon
Specs
Pros
Cons
The Horizon 7.4 AT is our pick for best folding high-end treadmill because its FeatherLight hydraulic folding system lets you save space — and your back — by taking most of that weight off your shoulders — and your back. To fold the deck down, just tap the lever with your foot and the hydraulics gently lower it to the floor completely hands-free. When folding it back up, the same hydraulics carry most of the weight up for you, as well. This system makes Horizon Fitness machines some of the best folding treadmills out there.
With a steel frame and overall weight of 318 pounds, the 7.4 AT is built like a tank. The weight capacity for most treadmills around this price is around 300 pounds, so we love that this model can support up to 350 pounds. “The weight capacity and larger-than-average running deck told me this tread is in it for the long haul,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. That prompted a durability rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Our product tester folding and moving the Horizon 7.4 AT.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, its footprint and portability earned the lowest rating for all 13 categories — a 3.5 out of 5. “In the upright folded position, it’s still 3 feet wide and 6 feet tall,” our tester pointed out. “I like the extra-wide 22-inch belt, but this machine is not meant for small spaces.”
Many other treadmills at this price point offer touchscreens or access to dynamic programming. While the 7.4 AT includes a few preset programs — My First 5K, Fat Burn, and Hill Climb among them — this treadmill is designed more for those who simply want to hop on and start running.
While you can take advantage of Horizon’s financing options, at this price, our tester rated its value 3.75 out of 5. “I think that, overall, it performs very well,” they said, “but at this price point, it should.”
Read our full Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Review.
Best High-End Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
The Assault Runner Elite is a top-tier motorless treadmill thanks to its heavy shock-absorbent belt that utilizes inertia to reach and maintain optimal speeds in training. We also appreciate the added conveniences of built-in water bottle holders and a center storage compartment.
Shop Assault Fitness
Specs
Pros
Cons
Our pick for the best high-end manual treadmill, the AssaultRunner Elite, is designed to sustain heavy use over many years. Its solid steel construction and oval tubing provide a sturdy foundation for runs. The powder-coated frame works to prevent corrosion, and the lifetime belt warranty ensures there’s no risk of running it into disrepair. Add in the large side panels for secure foot placement and a UV-resistant console, and it’s hard to argue with its durability.
Traditional treadmills operate using electric motors that move the belt according to the speed you set. Manual treadmills are user-powered, so the maximum speed is however fast you can make it go. Leading with the ball of the foot, you’ll propel the belt forward all by yourself. It can take some getting used to, but the design of curved treadmills encourages proper form and is lower-impact than flat belts. (1)
Our product tester running on the AssaultRunner Elite.
The AssaultRunner Elite’s 62-inch belt prompted a 4 out of 5 rating for adjustability and ergonomics from our tester. “I thought the curved, heavy tread provided a softer landing area compared to a regular treadmill belt,” they said. While standard treadmill belts are supported...
Click here to view the article.
The post 8 Best High-End Treadmills of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.
While there are plenty of budget treadmills that will make you sweat, it’s the premium features that elevate some of the best treadmills on the market. High-end treadmills stand out from low-cost options by virtue of their durable builds and connected programming, and are more likely to be a fixture of your home gym for years to come.
The best high-end treadmills will feature steel frames, powerful motors, and hydraulic folding mechanisms that can withstand the slapping sneakers of marathon runners, sprinters, and all-around cardio fiends. They’re also likely to feature cutting-edge tech, like swiveling HD touchscreens, wide incline ranges, and interactive programming like iFIT or Peloton. In our quest to find the best high-end treadmills, we laced up our fanciest running shoes and took a little time to enjoy the finer things at the gym. Check out our favorite high-end treadmills below.
The 8 Best High-End Treadmills of 2024
- Best Overall High-End Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
- Best High-End Treadmill for Running: ProForm Pro 9000
- Best Folding High-End Treadmill: Horizon 7.4 AT
- Best High-End Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
- Best High-End Treadmill for Walking: Sole F80
- Most Durable High-End Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 10
- Best High-End Treadmill for Studio Workouts: Peloton Tread
- Best High-End Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial x22i
About Our Expert:
This article has been reviewed by Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, a NASM-certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member. She reviewed the research we cite and the treadmills we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested one of these treadmills herself.
How We Tested the Best High-End Treadmills
The expert team at BarBend is made up of certified personal trainers, CrossFit professionals, nutrition coaches, and general treadmill nuts. We’ve personally tested over 40 treadmills and drew on that hands-on experience to give you the lowdown on these luxury machines. We scored each treadmill on a rating of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across 13 different categories, including footprint and portability, technology features, durability, adjustability and ergonomics, customizations, and even the brand’s customer service.
When we used these high-end treadmills, we asked specific questions within each category to ensure you have all the details you need to make your big investment. What’s the diameter of the rollers? How much does it shake at the highest speed? Is it a non-folding treadmill? How much extra do I have to pay for interactive programming? Will a bottle of Chablis fit in the cup holders? We took into consideration these factors and more to bring you an overview of how the best high-end treadmills may fit in your budget, your house, and your lifestyle.
Best Overall High-End Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
The NordicTrack 2450 is one of the most high-tech treadmills on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen display that can tilt to your comfort level, and rotate 360 degrees. Your purchase includes a free month of iFit, and all of your trainer-led classes offer automatic adjustments to the incline, decline, and speed settings.
Shop NordicTrack
Specs
- Price: $2,999
- Incline Range: -3%-12%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Dimensions: 65? H x 78.5? L x 35.6? W
- Weight: 286lbs
Pros
- Its -3-percent decline capability is an uncommon feature, even among high-end treadmills.
- iFIT integration allows you to stream over 16,000 live and on-demand workouts on the 22-inch HD touchscreen — including some that can automatically adjust your machine.
- The high-quality steel build can ensure this machine is in it for the long haul.
Cons
- Without an iFIT subscription — $39.99 per month — there are limited built-in programs.
- At 286 pounds, it may be difficult for one person to move without help.
- Storing your treadmill in an area that is not climate-controlled will void the warranty.
Even among high-end options, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 stands out as the best overall high-end treadmill for its wide array of premium features. The incline and decline can intensify any workout and its high-quality steel build helps ensure your investment will last. With a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor, you can count on smooth acceleration and deceleration. Like the best NordicTrack treadmills, iFIT integration comes standard and the 2450 allows you to stream your interactive cardio workouts on its swiveling 22-inch HD touchscreen.
The 2450’s -3-percent decline to 12-percent incline range opens up more possibilities for varied workouts. Our tester, a CrossFit trainer, rated its customizations 5 out 5. “I was impressed because not many treadmills have decline,” they explained, “and the max speed of 12 miles per hour surpasses industry standards.”
For $2,999, you’d be right to expect a quality build. The steel construction prompted a 4.75 out of 5 score for durability. Jake Herod — certified nutrition coach and BarBend product tester — said in his video review, which you can watch below, “Even at some of those top-end speeds, it really doesn’t wobble.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Streamers Paradise? — NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Review (2023) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmOq24_wKXI)
“Anyone who thrives having a trainer or coach lead you along the way will love iFIT,” said Herod. Your $39.99 monthly subscription gives you access to over 16,000 live and on-demand classes, some of which can automatically adjust the speed and incline of your treadmill to match the trail or path you’re following on the 22-inch HD touchscreen.
With iFIT on board, the dynamic programming on this tread earned a perfect 5 out 5. “Subscribing to iFIT allows you to automatically save the data from workouts you did on the NordicTrack 2450 and sync it across all your devices,” he explained.
“I like that it folds, but it’s not like it comes down totally flat,” our tester noted. They rated its footprint and portability 3 out of 5 and added, “If you’re planning on moving it too far, grab a friend.”
Some people may only have space for this 286-pound beast of a machine in a garage, but our tester rated the warranty 3 out of 5 because the warranty is voided if you store it in any space that isn’t climate-controlled.
Read our full NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Review.
Best High-End Treadmill for Running: ProForm Pro 9000
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.
Shop ProForm
Specs
- Price: $2,299
- Incline Range: -3%-12%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 300lbs
- Dimensions: 59.6? H x 77.3? L x 35.3? W
- Weight: 263lbs
Pros
- Runners will like this treadmill’s 3.6 CHP motor and max speed of 12 miles per hour.
- ProForm’s ReBound Pro cushioning in the 20-inch by 60-inch deck can provide support during intense runs.
- A $39.99 monthly iFIT subscription gives you access to thousands of cardio, strength, and mobility classes.
Cons
- At 263 pounds, it can be difficult to move — even with upright folding and built-in wheels.
- With limited preset programs, you may need a $39.99 monthly iFIT subscription to get the most out of the machine.
- The warranty will be voided if this treadmill is kept in a space that isn’t climate-controlled.
We named the ProForm Pro 9000 our favorite high-end treadmill for running because of the 3.6 CHP motor, cushioned deck, and the stability it provides at high speeds. To push your runs even further, take advantage of the -3-percent to 12-percent incline range and 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck. Its powerful motor can also smoothly reach the 12-mile-per-hour max speed — two miles per hour faster than most treadmills.
During runs, your feet are hitting the belt harder than they would in a walking or jogging session. Like the best cushioned treadmills, the Pro 9000 works to lessen the impact on your joints with its own patented ReBound Pro cushioning system, which includes shock absorbers so you can work out longer and recover faster.
For its adjustability and ergonomics, Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member, rated it 5 out of 5. “I thought the 20-inch by 60-inch cushioned deck, plus the wide incline range made running super comfortable,” she said.
With an iFIT membership ($39.99 per month after your 30-day free trial), you get access to a deep library of running workouts, including a 10k training series and scenic classes that unfold against locales like the Hawaiian Islands and the Grand Canyon.
The features that make it solid for running also come with a trade-off. “Because it was so heavy, I almost had to scoot it across the room, even with the wheels,” Meier explained. The 3.5 out of 5 rating she gave its footprint and portability was the lowest score across all categories. “I’d probably just use the hydraulic folding to save space.”
Despite this hefty machine’s hefty price tag — $2,299 — Meier rated the ProForm Pro 9000’s overall value 4.5 out of 5. “I actually think the price is relatively modest considering all you get,” she pointed out. Stacked up against comparable machines like the NordicTrack 2450 at $2,999 and the Sole F80 at $1,899, this tread’s price lands squarely in the middle.
Considering that price point, she made sure to leave one last important note about storage. Like other machines in this price range, the warranty will be voided if you need to store it in an area that isn’t climate-controlled.
Read our full ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.
Best Folding High-End Treadmill: Horizon 7.4 AT
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill is ideal for anyone who likes to stream fitness classes throughout their workout. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity for streaming, this tread also features 3-zone variable response cushioning and feather-light folding to make storing this treadmill seamless.
Shop Horizon
Specs
- Price: $2,399
- Incline Range: 0%-15%
- Max Speed: 12mph
- Weight Capacity: 350lbs
- Dimensions: 67? H x 77? L x 35? W
- Weight: 318lbs
Pros
- Horizon’s FeatherLight hydraulic folding system allows for effortless upright folding.
- Its 350-pound weight capacity is about 50 pounds more than many treadmills in this price range.
- The 22-inch by 60-inch running deck is two inches wider than most treadmills.
Cons
- With such a large footprint and overall weight — 318 pounds — you may want to leave it one spot.
- Unlike other high-end machines, it does not offer a touchscreen or integrated interactive programming like iFIT.
The Horizon 7.4 AT is our pick for best folding high-end treadmill because its FeatherLight hydraulic folding system lets you save space — and your back — by taking most of that weight off your shoulders — and your back. To fold the deck down, just tap the lever with your foot and the hydraulics gently lower it to the floor completely hands-free. When folding it back up, the same hydraulics carry most of the weight up for you, as well. This system makes Horizon Fitness machines some of the best folding treadmills out there.
With a steel frame and overall weight of 318 pounds, the 7.4 AT is built like a tank. The weight capacity for most treadmills around this price is around 300 pounds, so we love that this model can support up to 350 pounds. “The weight capacity and larger-than-average running deck told me this tread is in it for the long haul,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. That prompted a durability rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, its footprint and portability earned the lowest rating for all 13 categories — a 3.5 out of 5. “In the upright folded position, it’s still 3 feet wide and 6 feet tall,” our tester pointed out. “I like the extra-wide 22-inch belt, but this machine is not meant for small spaces.”
Many other treadmills at this price point offer touchscreens or access to dynamic programming. While the 7.4 AT includes a few preset programs — My First 5K, Fat Burn, and Hill Climb among them — this treadmill is designed more for those who simply want to hop on and start running.
While you can take advantage of Horizon’s financing options, at this price, our tester rated its value 3.75 out of 5. “I think that, overall, it performs very well,” they said, “but at this price point, it should.”
Read our full Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Review.
Best High-End Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Elite
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
Assault Runner Elite Treadmill
The Assault Runner Elite is a top-tier motorless treadmill thanks to its heavy shock-absorbent belt that utilizes inertia to reach and maintain optimal speeds in training. We also appreciate the added conveniences of built-in water bottle holders and a center storage compartment.
Shop Assault Fitness
Specs
- Price: $3,999
- Step-Up Height: 13.45”
- Incline Range: None
- Max Speed: Unlimited
- Weight Capacity: 400lbs
- Dimensions: 64.4? H x 69.9? L x 31.7? W
- Weight: 289.2lbs
Pros
- With proper care, its powder-coated steel frame and heavy-duty oval tubing can support years of heavy use.
- Its curved, manual design helps promote a natural running form.
- The 62-inch curved belt is easier on the joints than the flat belts of electric treadmills.
Cons
- $3,999 is pricey given its lack of smart features or integrated workout programs.
- The plastic along the sides of the machine may be susceptible to cracks.
- It has no folding option.
Our pick for the best high-end manual treadmill, the AssaultRunner Elite, is designed to sustain heavy use over many years. Its solid steel construction and oval tubing provide a sturdy foundation for runs. The powder-coated frame works to prevent corrosion, and the lifetime belt warranty ensures there’s no risk of running it into disrepair. Add in the large side panels for secure foot placement and a UV-resistant console, and it’s hard to argue with its durability.
Traditional treadmills operate using electric motors that move the belt according to the speed you set. Manual treadmills are user-powered, so the maximum speed is however fast you can make it go. Leading with the ball of the foot, you’ll propel the belt forward all by yourself. It can take some getting used to, but the design of curved treadmills encourages proper form and is lower-impact than flat belts. (1)
The AssaultRunner Elite’s 62-inch belt prompted a 4 out of 5 rating for adjustability and ergonomics from our tester. “I thought the curved, heavy tread provided a softer landing area compared to a regular treadmill belt,” they said. While standard treadmill belts are supported...
Click here to view the article.
