For many people, having a treadmill is a must. It acts as a great alternative to running outside, making it possible to keep up with a jogging routine in even the worst weather. Plus, using a treadmill is pretty simple, making it an excellent cardio option for even novice exercisers.
One of the biggest issues with having a treadmill in a person’s home is usually the size. It isn’t uncommon for treadmills to be very large and bulky machines. Their footprints are typically bigger than that of an elliptical. However, some treadmills are a bit more compact.
If you are looking for a great treadmill that isn’t a beast of a machine, you’re in luck. Here are some of the best treadmills for small spaces around.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S
From one of the leaders in the treadmill space, the NordicTrack T 6.5 S is a very capable machine in a fairly compact design. The treadmill belt measures only 20 inches by 55 inches. While that gives you ample running space, it’s actually pretty small when compared to other treadmill options.
Plus, you can fold this treadmill up for easier storage. You don’t have to commit the full amount of floor space needed for operation day-in and day-out. Instead, you just have to make sure there is enough room to use it. Then, you can fold it up and reclaim more of your room.
The NordicTrack T 6.5 S is also iFit compatible, though you do have to use your own smartphone or tablet and connect it over Bluetooth. But, once you do, you can access a broad selection of on-demand courses and follow along with the trainers. The Bluetooth connection even allows the treadmill to adjust your incline automatically, so you don’t have to touch a button to make sure you keep up with the trainer.
Along with quiet operation, you also get a range of features. You can use the pulse-monitoring grips and attached digital display. There are even some one-touch controls for greater ease of use.
If you want a compact NordicTrack with all of the bells and whistles, then consider the NordicTrack T 6.5 Si instead. It’s essentially the same platform but comes with a 10-inch HD touchscreen display, a more robust motor, and a few other upgrades.
XTERRA Fitness TR150
With three manual incline settings and a speed range that tops out at 10 mph, the XTERRA Fitness TR150 is a capable treadmill. But, with a usable belt surface of just 16 inches by 50 inches, it’s also incredibly compact, making it ideal for small apartments and homes.
For convenience, this treadmill comes with 12 workout presets. That means you can start exercising with just a few button clicks and automatically have access to some workout variety. The 5-inch LCD display makes tracking your time and distance a breeze. Plus, you can monitor your pulse using the grips and screen readouts.
Like many compact treadmills, the XTERRA Fitness TR150 also folds up. You can easily tuck it away when not in use, allowing you to make the most of limited floor space.
LifeSpan TR1200-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill
Under desk treadmills have become all the rage. If you work from home or just spend a decent amount of time on your home computer, this approach might be ideal if you live in a smaller house or apartment.
Essentially, the LifeSpan TR1200-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill is a treadmill base without supporting handles or upper screens. You slide the front end under a desk and use the remaining belt space to workout. The belt surface comes in at 20 inches by 50 inches, so it’s fairly compact. But this approach to having a treadmill means you don’t have to use a separate space. As long as you have a standup desk, you simply place it there.
Additionally, without the handles, the LifeSpan TR1200-DT3 can even slide under some taller bed frames or those placed on bed risers. This can make it ideal for storing if you need to get it out of your office or main living area.
It also supports a higher amount of weight than some other treadmills. Users can weigh as much as 350-lbs. Just keep in mind that this treadmill is only meant for walking (or maybe a light jog). It tops out at 4 mph, so it isn’t designed for those who want to run on their compact treadmill.
ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill
If you genuinely need one of the smallest treadmills available, consider the ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill. It can support up to a 230-lbs. user, has two available incline levels, and padded handles. It relies on flywheels and user-power to get the belt moving, so you don’t have to worry about plugging it in when you find a spot to set it up.
For convenience, there’s a small LCD display that tracks basic information, like the length of a workout, distance covered, speed, and calories burned. You get batteries for the LCD in the box, so you can start using it right away.
Since it is entirely powered by the user, it’s incredibly compact. The lack of a motor means you save space. Additionally, this treadmill also folds up, taking up only 21 inches by 23 inches of floor space when folded. If you want to tuck it away when not in use, you can do it in seconds with the ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill.
And if a treadmill is not your speed, maybe an elliptical will fit the bill (and your space)!