Finding the Best Foldable Treadmill for Your Home Gym
When it comes to building the perfect home gym, space a major concern for myself. A foldable treadmill was the ideal solution. I was determined to find the best space saving options that didn’t sacrifice quality or features that other treadmills offer. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
The right treadmill depends on several factors, including your fitness goals, available space, budget, and must-have features. Finding the most well rounded options that give me the best user experience while being able to save on space was the mission. I am happy to say that I can confidently give you my professional option so you can feel confident with such an important addition to your home gym.
To help you make an informed decision, I’ve tested, researched and compared the best foldable treadmills on the market. Every treadmill on this list would make a great addition to any home gym so take the time to figure out which one best fits you.
Top 6 Foldable Treadmills with Incline
Here’s my picks for the best foldable treadmills based on my own personal experience and research. These treadmills have all the features I love and need for my workouts but also have the ability to fold up and be stowed away when I’m not using them.
My #1 choice:
NordicTrack Commercial 1750
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 stands out from all the rest. It’s a favorite among runners, including myself. Its spacious running surface lets me stretch my legs, and the speed and incline controls are well designed and respond quickly, making workout adjustments simple. The Commercial 1750 is built to make indoor running feel as immersive as outdoor training. Plus, they throw in a 30 day free trial for iFit, giving you access to thousands of trainer-led workouts, global runs, and live classes.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is in my opinion the best affordable foldable treadmills on the market, offering top-tier technology, durability, and a comfortable running experience.
Key Features:
- Running Surface: 22″ x 60″
- Incline Range: -3% to 15%
- Max Speed: 12 mph
Other Features:
- 14” Interactive HD Touchscreen
- RunnersFlex™ Cushioning (suspension)
- Bluetooth & Built-in Speakers
My #2 choice:
Horizon Fitness 7.0AT
The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT is a budget-friendly treadmill designed for runners and interval trainers who want performance at a great price point. With a sturdy build, easy to use incline/speed adjustments, and a foldable design, this treadmill is perfect for home workouts.
My favorite thing about this treadmill is how responsive the incline/speed adjustments are, giving me control I need for my interval training. Unlike many treadmills in this price range, it’s also Bluetooth-enabled, allowing you to sync fitness apps like Peloton, Zwift, and Studio for a more interactive workout experience.
Key Features:
- Running Surface: 20″ x 60″
- Incline Range: 0% to 15%
- Max Speed: 12 mph
Other Features:
- Bluetooth capabilities
- FeatherLight™ folding system
- Lifetime Warranty on Frame & Motor
My #3 choice:
Horizon Fitness T101
The Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill is a versatile and user-friendly machine designed to accommodate walkers and light joggers seeking a reliable addition to their home fitness routine. Its compact, foldable design ensures it fits seamlessly into various living spaces, while the intuitive controls and comfortable cushioning system provide a pleasant exercise experience.
With features like Bluetooth connectivity, integrated speakers, and a device holder, the T101 allows users to enjoy their favorite media or fitness apps during workouts, enhancing motivation and engagement.
Key Features:
- Running Surface: 20.5″ x 55″
- Incline Range: 0 to 10%
- Max Speed: 10 mph
Other Features:
- Bluetooth Capabilities
- Variable Response Cushioning
- Built-in Programs
My #4 choice:
NordicTrack X24
The NordicTrack X24 Treadmill is a high-performance home fitness machine designed to provide an immersive and dynamic workout experience. With advanced technology and a durable build, it offers users an interactive and engaging way to achieve their fitness goals. It is designed for serious runners and fitness enthusiasts who demand performance, technology, and comfort in one piece of equipment. Featuring a massive 24-inch HD pivoting touchscreen, this treadmill brings iFIT’s interactive training to life, immersing you in studio workouts and global runs with elite trainers.
With an impressive incline range of -6% decline to 40% incline, the X24 mimics real-world terrain, allowing you to engage different muscle groups and maximize calorie burn.
Key Features
- Running Surface: 22″ x 60″
Incline Range: -6% to 40%
Max Speed: 12 mph
Other Features
- 24-Inch Pivoting HD Touchscreen
- SpringFlex™ Cushioning
- AutoBreeze™ Fan
- Bluetooth® Connectivity
- USB-C Charging Port
My #5 choice:
Sole F80
The Sole F80 Treadmill combines durability with modern technology to enhance your fitness journey. Powered by a quiet 3.5 horsepower motor, it supports speeds up to 12 mph, accommodating various workout intensities. The Cushion Flex Whisper Deck minimizes joint impact, ensuring a smooth and safe running experience. Sole offers access to multiple workout programs and entertainment options to keep you engaged. Its foldable design, equipped with a release lever mechanism, allows for convenient storage, making it ideal for home use.
The Sole F80 Treadmill is a premium fitness machine designed to meet the needs of both casual walkers and serious runners. Its robust construction and advanced features make it a standout choice for home workouts.
Key Features
- Running Surface: 22″ x 60″
- Incline Range: 0% to 15%
- Max Speed: 12 mph
Other Features
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Wireless Device Charging
- 10.1″ Touchscreen Display
Here’s a quick recap in table form:
| Treadmill | Running Surface (inches) | Incline Range | Max Speed (mph) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack Commercial 1750 | 22″ x 60″ | -3% to 15% | 12 | Trial iFit Subscription |
| Horizon Fitness 7.0AT | 20″ x 60″ | 0% to 15% | 12 | User-Friendly Controls |
| Horizon Fitness T101 | 20.5″ x 55″ | 0% to 10% | 10 | Built-in Programs |
| NordicTrack Commercial X24 | 22″ x 60″ | -6% to 40% | 12 | Big HD Touchscreen |
| Sole F80 | 22″ x 60″ | 0% to 15% | 12 | Training Video Access |
Choosing the Right Foldable Treadmill with Incline for My Home Gym
Before making this purchase I have to consider more than just price and aesthetics. A treadmill is a long-term investment in my health, and finding the right one required me to evaluate several key factors. Here’s what I learned in my search for the perfect model:
1. Space and Storage Considerations
One of the biggest reasons I opted for a foldable treadmill was space. My home gym isn’t massive, so I needed a treadmill that could fold up easily when not in use. I looked for models with a hydraulic folding mechanism for smooth and effortless storage.
2. Incline Range and Adjustability
Incline capability was a non-negotiable for me. Most of my treadmill workouts consist of speed interval training and hill work. I found that treadmills vary widely in incline range—some go up to 10-15%, while high-end models can reach 40%. I also made sure to choose one with automatic incline adjustment, so I wouldn’t have to stop my workout to make manual changes.
3. Motor Power and Speed
Since I wanted the flexibility to walk, jog, or sprint, I paid close attention to motor power and speed range. A 3.0 CHP motor or higher is ideal for running, while lower-powered motors work fine for walking. I also looked for a treadmill with at least 12 MPH max speed to accommodate my interval training.
4. Running Surface and Cushioning
Comfort matters, especially for my joints. I made sure to choose a treadmill with a spacious running deck (at least 20” x 55”) to avoid feeling restricted. Suspension technology was another must-have, as it reduces impact on my knees and ankles—something I really appreciate after long runs.
5. Technology and Connectivity
I wanted a treadmill that could keep my workouts engaging. A touchscreen display with interactive workouts was a game-changer. I also checked for Bluetooth connectivity, built-in speakers, and tablet holders for entertainment during my sessions because sometimes I get bored and need some Netflix to keep me going.
6. Stability and Durability
A foldable treadmill should still feel solid and stable when in use. I made sure to check weight capacity (at least 250-300 lbs) and overall frame construction. A heavier treadmill usually means better stability, so I leaned toward models with a steel frame instead of flimsy plastic parts.
7. Budget vs. Value
I didn’t just go for the cheapest option—I looked for the best value. Investing a little more upfront for durability, better incline options, and long-term reliability made sense. I also checked warranties, as a good treadmill should come with at least a 10-year frame warranty and 2-5 years on parts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right foldable treadmill with incline wasn’t just about finding the fanciest model—it was about matching the features to my personal fitness goals and space limitations. By considering incline range, motor power, cushioning, and tech features, I found the perfect treadmill that keeps me motivated without overwhelming my home gym.
