Best Folding Treadmills
There are several folding treadmills available that vary in features, size, design and quality. Treadmills are usually very large machines and if you have limited space in your home gym, or you do not want a large machine taking up space all the time, a folding model is a perfect option for you. A treadmill folds from the bottom up, so this means the heavy part of the treadmill is pushed up. Since the part that goes up is usually so heavy, the folding treadmill you choose has to be durable and has to securely fold.
Power-folding Or Shock Assisted (where you get some help folding the treadmill). This helps to save the strain on your back. Power fold-up treadmills are few and far between but basically you press a button and the treadmill folds and unfolds itself.
Shock assisted treadmills are a little easier to find and you do have to put out a little effort, but not a lot, to get the treadmill to fold and unfold. Manual folding - This is where you lift the treadmill itself to fold it up (and hold it to let it down and unfold it). If the treadmill is fairly light, this isn’t so bad, but if it’s a heavier unit, it can be a pain, especially for an older or health-compromised person. Most treadmills - especially those under $1200 - are manual folding.
Regardless of what type of folding mechanism is used, once the treadmill is folded, most treadmills have a locking mechanism where you can lock it into place. Some treadmills even have wheels on the bottom at the base of the treadmill so that once it’s locked, you can easily move it around into a closet or another room.
Almost all folding treadmills are designed to move, the difference is the effort required. If you plan to constantly move the treadmill, check out how easy it is. If it is a 200 lbs. treadmill that requires tilting it on two wheels in order to move it, you are going to need some strength training in addition to a cardio workout. There are some models that when folded, have four recessed wheels that pop out, making it simple to move.
You can assume that all manufacturers are going to exaggerate the weight capacity of their treadmill. It is a standard practice. Whatever the capacity states, minus at least 50 lbs. You want a machine that can withstand the impact of your weight. Otherwise you’ll find the motor, belt, rollers and bearings will burn-out prematurely.
