3 steps to choosing your perfect treadmill
Understanding features and specs when choosing a treadmill
What to look for in a treadmill with incline options
Whether you need a space-saving compact treadmill or a high-performance durable treadmill for serious training, get the info you need to choose the power, belt, incline, and footprint to match your stride. Your perfect treadmill needs depend on if you’re chasing a marathon or tackling your first 20-minute walk. Here's how to choose the best treadmill, and hit the ground running.
3 steps to choosing your perfect treadmill
Measure your available space, twice
Measure once for the treadmill in use and once for storage, if the treadmill is movable. Note ceiling height if you plan to run (you need 2' clearance above your head), doorway widths if the treadmill needs to move between rooms, and proximity to electrical outlets.
We recommend a clearance of 79" to the back and 24" to the sides of a Peloton Tread, but allow for mat space too - Peloton screens swivel for mat workouts. For smart treadmills, like the Peloton Tread and Tread+, you’ll need a reliable WiFi connection nearby too.
Factor in total value
Look past the base price tag. Account for delivery, extended warranties, and any monthly subscriptions. With Peloton’s connected fitness membership, you get access to world-class instructors who teach to a vast music library, your favorite streaming platforms, and scenic visuals that mimic trail runs to keep your energy locked in from warm-up to cool-down.
Explore monthly payments, HSA/FSA reimbursement, or employee benefits to unlock your setup. Check for any special pricing offers with Peloton.
Match the features to your goals
Are you looking to build a balanced routine? Pair your runs with off-belt strength and recovery. Smart treadmills with a variety of classes and a large or movable screen makes this easy. Swivel any of Peloton treadmill’s screen to the left or right for a floor workout, like Pilates, yoga, Barre, or dumbbell or kettlebell strength training.
Do you want real-time metric tracking and dynamic energy? You’ll want to consider a connected treadmill. Use any of Peloton’s third party integrations (Garmin Connect, Apple Health, and more) to track your runs alongside any other activity off the treadmill. With the Tread+, you also get access to motion tracking features including form tracking and rep counting*.
Are you chasing high mileage? Target a shock-absorbing, continuous slat-belt like the Tread+.
Do you need motivation? Find a platform that has what you need to stay on track, whether that is a favorite instructor, an exhilarating playlist, or an online fitness community to uplift you. BarBend gave Peloton’s instructors a 5 out of 5 saying, "They’re always upbeat which does wonders for keeping me focused on my performance. I also think Peloton has some of the best music in the fitness streaming game..."
Understanding features and specs when choosing a treadmill
Belts and dimensions
If you’re just walking, your treadmill can be more compact (16–18" wide by 45–50" long). If you’re running, look for at least 20" x 55" for an uncompromised stride. Regular runners should look for a comfortable rubberized slat-belt to maximize cushion and absorb heavy impact - like the cushioned slat-belt of the Peloton Tread+.
Motor power
Walking setups hit the spot at 2.0 to 2.5 peak horsepower (HP). But runners need 3.0 HP+ to sustain top-end speed without wearing out or overheating. However, a slat belt treadmill has much less friction than a traditional belt thus requiring less HP to get the same performance.
AC motors are generally more powerful and better for heavy duty use. DC motors are more efficient and tailored towards home use. While DC motors are tailored towards lighter duty use, a good motor can provide plenty of power for walking, jogging, and running.
Another option is a treadmill that doesn’t have a motor at all, or has a no-motor option so you can power the belt using pure leg strength. Free Mode on the Tread+ gives you the option to switch between the two for additional strength and cardio training.
Noise level
Keep the output high and the noise low. Sturdy builds minimize floor vibration—a crucial check for apartment training. Carpets or mats can help minimize noises, but be sure to check if your treadmill can be placed on that type of flooring.
The Tread can be placed on a low-pile carpet as long as it is a flat, stable surface, but the Tread+ should not be used on any carpets.
Tech connectivity
Connectivity has become a standard expectation for modern fitness equipment. Features like Bluetooth pairing, app integration, and compatibility with fitness trackers enhance your workout experience and help you track progress over time. Many of these features are enabled by a monthly subscription and are what best support you in reaching your goals. Learn more about Peloton’s membership plans.
Additionally, incline is another important feature of treadmills that you must consider when purchasing.
What to look for in a treadmill with incline options
Incline training drives high output with lower impact, targeting your glutes, calves, and posterior chain while protecting your joints. Taking on elevation – like you’ll do in one of Peloton’s Hiking classes – delivers a low-impact workout with maximum output.
“[Incline work on the treadmill] is a great way to improve your cardiovascular fitness and fire on your posterior chain.” – Peloton Tread Instructor Kirsten Ferguson
When shopping for incline features, pay attention to maximum incline percentages and adjustment mechanisms. Most treadmills range from 0% to 15% incline. Some more compact or budget treadmills require you to manually adjust the incline, requiring you to set your incline before your workout and maintain it the entire time.
The Tread inclines to 12.5%, and Tread+ inclines to 15%. Both have the option to use auto-incline technology to seamlessly adjust your incline to match the class profile so you never break your flow.
"Auto-incline lets you just enjoy the workout without having to think about adding incline... you can just focus on one foot in front of the other." – Peloton Tread Instructor Kirsten Ferguson
Find your target, clear your space, and get ready to crush your goals—one stride at a time.
*Peloton All-Access Membership required to access all Peloton content and applicable features on your Peloton hardware. Peloton IQ's most advanced features come to life on our most advanced hardware, the Cross Training Bike+, Tread+ and Row+.
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute individualized advice. It is not intended to replace professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician for questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. If you are having a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.
