Why It's Important to Find a Treadmill That Folds Up
If you're preparing for your next race or just want to fit in some exercise at home, a treadmill can make your goals more achievable. But you must choose one that folds to save space.
To fold a treadmill, simply lift the deck toward the display. Then, lock the latch knob to lock it.
Compact Design
Foldable treadmills can be stored under a bed in a closet, or under a bed when they are not in use. They provide plenty of space for running. They're typically less expensive than non-folding treadmills and can help you keep active even when the weather isn't great or your schedule is busy.
Think about your fitness goals and how you plan to use the treadmill. Some treadmills are made for walking, while others allow light jogging or even short runs. Before you purchase a treadmill ensure that you know its speed range and motor size.
Non-folding treadmills are generally heavier and therefore more stable at high speeds. Folding treadmills can also be less stable, particularly for runners who test themselves to the max. When selecting a treadmill that folds, look for a model that has safety features, like an emergency stop button, to ensure that you can easily stop the machine if you accidentally lose control of the machine.
If you want to purchase a foldable treadmill that's safe for runner make sure you choose one with a powerful motor as well as a large deck size. Generally speaking, an 2.5 hp motor is sufficient for casual runners and occasional sprinters however serious runners should strive for at minimum 3.5 hp to ensure they can run comfortably at high speeds. Likewise, look for treadmills with built-in cushioning to reduce the strain on your knees, so you can train for long periods of time without fearing injury.
Convenient Storage
If you live in a tiny space, you must be able of folding your treadmill when in use. Most treadmills that fold are equipped with wheels that allow them to be easily folded away to make space for other activities. For example when your children arrive home from school or your guests arrive later. Non-folding treadmills typically need more space since they are designed to be permanent fixtures in your home.
While a lot of treadmills that fold are specifically designed for smaller areas, they do not skimp on features or performance. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill, for instance, folds quickly with the help of an exclusive EasyLift mechanism. The treadmill features an 3.5 CHP engine as well as the 15% incline and an 3% decline.
Another option is the SF-T7632 folding treadmill from Sunny Health & Fitness. This treadmill can easily be stored in a closet or under a table, and it still offers a comfortable running deck. Its small size and sturdy construction make it a great choice for those who want to do some exercise while working or watching TV.
If you're thinking of purchasing a treadmill foldable make sure to read the description of the product for specifics on how it can be folded and put away. You'll also want to look at the frame weight and dimensions as well as 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, tells PEOPLE that one of the biggest barriers to staying active is not having enough time, which makes a treadmill that folds perfectly for busy people. "It allows you to get a quick run in before or after work or even during lunch," she says.
Easy to Operate
The best treadmills that fold are easy to use regardless of whether you're using them for a quick jog or an at-home workout. Victoria Brady, ACE-CPT and fitness brand Fyt recommends an option with intuitive controls, such as buttons for speed or incline, or touchscreen programming. If you're planning to power walk and run, choose motors that have between 2.0-2.5 horsepower. If you're a serious athlete, select a motor that can support running routines.
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 much easier to take off and on the treadmill with wheels, so you don't have to worry about moving it by yourself."
You should also consider models that come with extra features like ports for USB cables as well as headphone jacks, and an accessory for your device. The Echelon Auto Fold Connected Treadmill has a bright, crisp display that shows a variety of motivational metrics. It also allows you to connect it to fitness applications and monitor your heart rate among other things.
Other features to look for include a safety clip, which stops the treadmill from working in the event that someone falls on it while it's in use and the deck automatically folds to a 45-degree angle once you lift it off the bottom of the treadmill. Look for a treadmill with a gas-shock, which allows for the deck to be lowered slowly and gently rather than slamming into the ground as some models do. You'll want to check that your new treadmill meets the safety requirements of the locale to operate it.
Safety
When you are choosing a treadmill that folds and down, ensure it comes with safety features. The majority of folding treadmills come with a safety lock that secures the deck in place when it is in storage mode. This feature protects the deck from being accidentally released while the machine is being utilized. It can also help keep children from the machine.
A power cord lock is another important security feature. This will ensure that the treadmill is off and away from reach after every workout session. This is especially important if you have children who might be enticed by the temptation to turn the treadmill on 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. Children may pull the cord, causing it to speed up.
It is also important to ensure that the treadmill is placed away from objects such as drapes or curtains that could accidentally hang over the treadmill while using it. This could increase the chance of injury and can create a risk of a trip. Additionally, it is recommended that you wear appropriate footwear when running on the treadmill. This will help reduce the risk of falling over things at home, and will also ensure that you keep an even pace while walking or running on a treadmill.
It is also a great idea to fold the treadmill and secure it prior to leaving it in a public place like the gym or at school. This can help reduce the chance of injury to other patrons or students who might not be used to the treadmill's operation and/or the noise level of one in a noisy setting.
Stability
Folding treadmills have a lower center of gravity than non-folding models which makes them more stable. It is less likely to roll over and cause injury if you slip on the machine or tilt it too far. It takes up less room which is crucial for those who live in a small space or a home. A treadmill that folds also makes it easier to transport. This is an excellent advantage if you plan to take your treadmill for workout or business trips. It's also a great idea to pick a treadmill that folds with wheels and a carry handle. This makes it easier to move around.
It is crucial to think about the speed range and incline functions when selecting a treadmill that folds. If you plan to run on the treadmill at a speed of 7.5 percent of a mile will suffice. If, however, you are an athlete it could be necessary to select the fastest motor.
In addition, you should ensure that the treadmill is easy to fold and unfold. Some models require two individuals to fold while others can be folded with ease by one person. The best treadmills will come with clear instructions on how to fold them correctly. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for regular maintenance and cleaning.
While some treadmills that fold are simple to operate and store however, some can be difficult to move. Always go through the user's manual thoroughly to understand how the treadmill works. Then, you must test it out before deciding if it is the best choice for your fitness needs.