The Best Manual Treadmill To Buy In 2023

 Written by 

Julien Raby

 Last updated on 

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Manual treadmills are an excellent addition to any home gym, regardless of fitness level or goals. These treadmills are not only environmentally friendly but can also provide a better workout than motorized models. Studies show that a curved, non-motorized treadmill can burn 30% more calories than a flat, motorized machine due to the increased effort required to operate it.

The belt of a manual treadmill moves only when you do, encouraging you to put more effort into each step. This makes manual treadmills safer for beginners, seniors, and those recovering from injuries, as the belt stops moving when you slow down or stop.

A woman running on the best manual treadmill
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Walking is a highly effective form of exercise that has many health benefits, including disease prevention, stronger bones and muscles, increased energy, and reduced stress. The benefits increase as you increase the frequency and intensity of your walks.

We’ve made a list of the best manual treadmill to buy for a few specific needs.

In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks

AssaultRunner Pro, Portable
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M Foldable Manual Walking Treadmill, Gray
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Exerpeutic 100XL High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual Treadmill with...
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NordicTrack Commercial Incline Treadmill with Luxury Touchscreen and 30-Day...
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Product's nameOur Top Pick
AssaultRunner Pro, Portable
Best Manual Treadmill for Athletes
TrueForm Trainer Treadmill
Best Manual Treadmill for Walking
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M Foldable Manual Walking...
Best Folding Manual Treadmill
Exerpeutic 100XL High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual...
Best Hybrid Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial Incline Treadmill with Luxury...
VerdictThe AssaultRunner Pro manual treadmill is a great investment for anyone looking for a versatile and premium quality piece of cardio equipment.The TRUEFORM Trainer provides a unique, effective workout experience that caters to a wide range of fitness levels and goals.The Sunny Health Manual Walking Treadmill is an excellent option for people who want a manual, low-impact cardio machine.At a price point under $200, the Exerpeutic High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual Treadmill offers a great value for anyone who's looking for a great manual treadmill on a budget.It is an affordable option for households that want a machine that can provide both motorized and manual exercises for both lower body and upper body conditioning.
Dimensions69" L x 31" W x 64" H64" L x 36" W x 63" H49" L x 23" W x 50" H49" L x 23" W x 50" H50" L x 29" W x 50" H
Weight289.2 lbs340lbs46.7 lbs73 lbs416 lbs
Weight Capacity350 lbs500 lbs220 lbs325 lbs300 lbs
Warranty5-year frame, 3-year moving parts10-year frame, 2-year mechanism3-year frame warranty, 180 days for other parts2 years10-Year Frame, 2-Year Parts, 1-Year Labor
Price$$$$$$$$$$$
More InfoSee at AmazonSee at RogueSee at AmazonSee at AmazonSee at Amazon

How Am I Qualified to Write About These Products?

As a fitness enthusiast with years of experience, I have a deep understanding of the different types of treadmills. Over the years, I have used a variety of treadmills and logged hundreds of miles, which has given me the expertise to recognize the difference between a high-quality machine and a mediocre one. When choosing a manual treadmill, it is crucial to consider your intended use.

Our Top Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness Electric Treadmill
Based on our testing, this is the best budget treadmill for beginners. For less than 400$, it has most essential features that you've come to expect, it's small and sturdy, frankly it offers great value for money. It's also backed with an 8 years warranty.

With this in mind, I have created a list of the best manual treadmills and carefully evaluated each one. Whether you are an experienced user of manual treadmills or new to the market, I can provide you with guidance. I have gathered all the relevant information to assist you in selecting a top-notch manual treadmill that will help you reach your fitness goals.

Someone running on the best manual treadmill
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Who Is This Guide For?

If you’re tired of unpredictable weather conditions and the hassle of commuting to the gym, setting up a home workout space with your own treadmill may be the solution. You don’t have to be a fitness expert or have extensive experience to understand the basic features of a treadmill for runners.

Despite its straightforward design and purpose, it’s important to become familiar with all its features and specifications if you want to invest in a top-performing treadmill that will help you reach your fitness goals and make the most of your investment.

How We Picked the Best Products?

Making an informed decision about purchasing a treadmill for running can be a challenge in today’s market, with so many options available and each product vying for your attention. 

To help cut through the noise, our team has conducted extensive research, including analyzing user feedback and experiences from popular fitness forums and social platforms such as Reddit and Quora. We’ve also taken into consideration the patterns and commonalities in customer reviews on platforms such as Amazon, Rogue, and Titan.

In addition, we’ve sought out professional reviews from trusted sources like Treadmill Review Guru and Runner’s World to validate the findings from our initial research. This multi-faceted approach has allowed us to understand what truly makes a difference to everyday runners and recommend the best treadmills on the market.

How We Compared Each Product

When comparing different manual treadmills, we considered several factors:

  1. Price: Investing in a fitness machine is a great idea, but it’s crucial to choose the right option that offers high value within your budget.
  2. User-friendliness: An easy-to-use manual treadmill will make it more likely for you to continue using it regularly. We selected machines that are simple to operate and have a minimalist design.
  3. Reviews: We considered the experiences of users and paid close attention to treadmills that received positive feedback. Negative reviews also helped us identify potential drawbacks of certain machines.
  4. Settings and Features: To help you make an informed decision, we highlighted the key features of each product. This will help you choose the best manual treadmill that meets your needs. 

The Products

AssaultRunner Pro – Our Top Pick

The AssaultRunner Pro manual treadmill stands out as a great value option in its category. While cardio equipment can often be expensive, this machine offers a lot for its $3,000 price tag.

One of the standout features of the AssaultRunner Pro is its monitor, which has been inspired by the Assault AirBike and includes nine built-in programs. These programs include options for quick-start, competition mode, targeting heart rate, time, distance, calories, custom intervals, and more.

This manual treadmill is highly versatile and allows for a smooth experience whether you’re running, walking, or sprinting. If you enjoy sprint intervals, the fast-spinning belt on the AssaultRunner Pro is ideal for this type of activity.

At only 280 pounds, the AssaultRunner Pro is a relatively portable motorless treadmill that can be easily moved with the help of its attached wheels and handle. The large 60-inch running surface is also a major advantage, providing ample space for those with a bigger stride.

In terms of warranty, the AssaultRunner Pro comes with an average coverage of 5 years for the frame, 3 years for parts, and 150,000 miles for the belt.

Pros

  • An excellent display and design
  • The belt is smooth, making it easy to walk, run, and sprint
  • Assembles easily
  • 9 built-in programs
  • Transport is easy with the attached wheels and handle
  • An excellent monitor with a wide range of stats

Cons

  • Average warranty
  • This treadmill’s plastic side panels are susceptible to cracking

Key Specs

Dimensions:69.9″ L x 31.7″ W x 64.4″ H 
Weight:289.2 lbs.
Weight capacity:350 lbs.
Warranty:5-year frame, 3-year moving parts

Who It’s Best for

The AssaultRunner Pro manual treadmill is a great investment for anyone looking for a versatile and premium quality piece of cardio equipment. With its fast belt, large running surface, and built-in monitor, it can help you reach your fitness goals whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner.

TrueForm Trainer Treadmill – Best Manual Treadmill for Athletes

The TrueForm Trainer is known for its Responsive Belt Technology, which helps in maintaining proper running form and reduces impact stress on the joints. Its gentle curve makes it accessible for new users, while still providing the benefits of curved training for experienced runners. 

The TrueForm Trainer is also highly customizable, making it a great option for any home gym. With its budget-friendly price, the TrueForm Trainer is a well-engineered and accessible manual treadmill for both new and seasoned athletes.

The TrueForm Trainer offers a unique combination of affordability, versatility, and quality, making it a great option for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who are looking for a high-quality manual treadmill. With its Responsive Belt Technology and slat belts, the TrueForm Trainer provides a comfortable and supportive running surface while promoting optimal running form and reducing impact stress. 

Additionally, its gentler curve and customizable options make it accessible and adaptable to users of all abilities, making it a great addition to any home gym.

Pros

  • The subtle curve design makes it easier to use while still maintaining the benefits of curved training
  • Supports users weighing up to 400 pounds
  • Customizable settings and an easy-to-read console
  • Running outdoors is comparable thanks to Responsive Belt Technology
  • Attractive price
  • It has no maximum speed since it is a fully manual treadmill
  • Does not require a plug or a wall outlet

Cons

  • Extra charge for White Glove Delivery
  • No motorized features

Key Specs

Dimensions:64″ x 36″ x 63″
Weight:340lb
Max Weight:500lb
Warranty:10-year frame, 2-year mechanism

Who It’s Best for

The TRUEFORM Trainer provides a unique, effective workout experience that caters to a wide range of fitness levels and goals. As such, it’s ideal for individuals who want to enhance their overall fitness and well-being, including runners, walkers, athletes, and anyone looking to improve their posture, balance, and running technique.

Sunny Health & Fitness Manual Walking Treadmill – Best Manual Treadmill for Walking

The Sunny Health & Fitness Manual Walking Treadmill is an excellent choice for those who prefer walking or can’t run due to an injury. The 13.5 percent incline provides an extra challenge and helps increase metabolism and tone lower-body muscles. The treadmill is also designed to reduce strain on the back and knees, making it a great option for those who want to exercise comfortably.

The only drawbacks of this treadmill are the limited maximum user weight of 220 pounds and the short three-year warranty. However, considering the affordable price, it can still be a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly manual treadmill.

The compact footprint allows for easy storage in small spaces and can be folded for convenience. The treadmill also has floor stabilizers to reduce slippage and displays time, speed, distance, and calorie burn.

Pros

  • Affordably priced
  • An excellent screen display
  • Compact and easily moveable
  • The belt provides great resistance for walking

Cons

  • Weight limit of 220 pounds
  • A narrow belt 
  • Somewhat shaky when in use

Key Specs

Dimensions:49″ L x 23″ W x 50″ H
Weight:46.7 lbs.
Weight capacity:220 lbs.
Warranty:3-year frame warranty, 180 days for other parts

Who It’s Best for

The Sunny Health Manual Walking Treadmill is an excellent option for people who want a manual, low-impact cardio machine.

Exerpeutic 100XL Manual Treadmill – Best Folding Manual Treadmill

This highly portable manual treadmill is a must-have for those who don’t want their treadmill to be a permanent fixture. Equipped with pulse monitors on the handrails, this treadmill provides an accurate heart rate reading. 

It boasts a long and wide design for balance and stability, and eight magnetic tension levels to adjust the incline to 8, 10, and 15 degrees. To top it off, it comes pre-assembled with only the LCD screen needing to be attached. The screen displays elapsed time, distance traveled, calories burned, speed, and heart rate monitoring. When not in use, simply fold it up for easy storage.

Our Top Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness Electric Treadmill
Based on our testing, this is the best budget treadmill for beginners. For less than 400$, it has most essential features that you've come to expect, it's small and sturdy, frankly it offers great value for money. It's also backed with an 8 years warranty.

Despite its portability, this treadmill is well-constructed and built to last according to customer reviews. However, assembling it may require two sets of hands. Some users have expressed disappointment with the handlebar placement, but it still remains a well-loved product.

This manual treadmill boasts a reinforced frame to handle a high weight capacity and twin 6” flywheels for a smoother workout experience compared to single flywheel treadmills. The precise balance flywheels and magnetic resistance ensure a quiet workout, while the heart pulse pads enable users to track their target heart rate. 

The wide and long belt provides the same benefits as electric treadmills, and the extra-long safety handles ensure stability during use. The treadmill also has quick-release incline adjustments with three positions at 8, 10, and 15 degrees. When not in use, it easily folds up and can be moved and stored with the front-mounted transport wheels.

The standout feature of the Exerpeutic 100XL High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual Treadmill is its incline capabilities. With three manual incline settings, you can add intensity to your workout with an incline range from 8% to 10% or 15%. This sets the treadmill apart from other manual treadmills in its price range, as most do not offer the option to incline, except the ProGear 190 Space Saver Manual Treadmill, which only has two incline levels.

While Exerpeutic claims that the 100XL High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual Treadmill is suitable for running, this may be questionable. The treadmill has a belt length of 45”, which is longer than many other manual treadmills but still may not be sufficient for individuals with a normal running stride, particularly those who are 6′ or close to it. It is recommended to test the treadmill before purchasing if running is a desired activity.

Pros

  • Pulse monitors on the handrails to accurately track your heart rate during your workout
  • A long and wide design to promote balance and stability during your workout
  • Easy to move and store with the front-mounted transport wheels.

Cons

  • The handlebars are not adjustable

Key Specs

Dimensions:50” x 29” x 50”
Treadmill weight:73 lbs
Weight capacity:325 pounds
Warranty:2 years

Who It’s Best for 

At a price point under $200, the Exerpeutic High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual Treadmill offers a great value for anyone who’s looking for a great manual treadmill on a budget. The option to incline and have three incline levels is rare in manual treadmills at this price range.

However, a common issue with manual treadmills, including this one, is the relatively short belt length. Although Exerpeutic claims that it can be used for running, most users may find it difficult to do so.

NordicTrack Commercial x22i Incline Trainer/Treadmill – Best Hybrid Treadmill

The NordicTrack x22i is a hybrid treadmill that features a traditional sliding belt running surface with motorized incline/decline and manual modes. The motorized mode has a maximum incline of 40% and a maximum speed of 12 mph, with preset incline and speed buttons.

It also has a 22-inch touchscreen, a powerful fan with 4 settings, Bluetooth speakers, and a free 30-day trial of the iFit app, which includes over 16,000 workouts.

The manual mode operates at 1 mph and allows for sled push and parachute resistance training, using the EKG sensors on the handlebars and a horizontal push bar. This treadmill offers a full-body workout and is suitable for multi-user families.

Pros

  • Motorized setting offers -6% decline and 40% incline!
  • Maximum speed of 12 mph
  • 4.0 HP motor
  • 22” wide by 60” long tread belt
  • A Reflex Cushioning system in the deck reduces shock during foot impact
  • Console-mounted workout fans
  • 22” touchscreen is iFit compatible

Cons

  • 300lb user capacity
  • The manual mode is only available for sled push and parachute training (it cannot be used for running)

Key Specs

Dimensions:70.2” L x 39.6” W x 71.6” H
Machine Weight: 416 lbs
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Warranty: 10-Year Frame Warranty2-Year Parts Warranty1-Year Labor Warranty
Price: $3,499

Who It’s Best For

It is an affordable option for households that want a machine that can provide both motorized and manual exercises for both lower body and upper body conditioning.

How To Choose a Manual Treadmill

Selecting the ideal manual treadmill can be challenging. You need to take into account various factors that you may not have considered previously. The length of the running belt is crucial if you have a longer stride, and the width of some manual treadmills may be restrictive for even slimmer users. Furthermore, you should understand the impact that different features will have on your fitness objectives.

At the minimum, there are essential aspects that you should confirm before making a purchase. You may have already decided that you want a foldable treadmill, but have you considered the required floor space for your workout? What type of warranty do you need? And, how easy is it to assemble? Let’s examine these questions in detail.

Dimensions

Before choosing a manual treadmill, consider the size and space requirements. Manual treadmills are often compact and foldable, making them ideal for small spaces. However, you need to make sure you have enough room to use the treadmill comfortably and store it when not in use.

Measure the area where you plan to use and store the treadmill, and take into account any additional features, such as inclines or swinging arm attachments. This will help ensure that you select a manual treadmill that fits both your space and workout needs.

Warranty

When choosing a manual treadmill, it’s important to consider warranty coverage. Although this is not a motorized treadmill, it still has moving parts like the frame, belt, and other components that can malfunction. Look for a warranty that covers these parts and offers a reasonable length of coverage, such as 10 years or more.

However, keep in mind that some warranties may have limitations, so be sure to review the details and terms before making your purchase. If you have any questions about the warranty or repair process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer for clarification. Your manual treadmill is an investment, and you want to be confident that you’re protected in case of any issues.

A woman runnning on the best manual treadmill
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Assembly

You can check out online tutorials and videos to see if the assembly process seems straightforward. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what’s required before starting the assembly process, as this will help to ensure a smooth and successful build. If you encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer for assistance. 

Remember, this is a significant investment, so you want to make sure it’s done right.

Are manual treadmills worth it?

Investing in a manual treadmill can be an excellent choice for individuals seeking an indoor fitness solution. It’s ideal for both walkers who aim to increase their daily steps and runners looking to maximize calorie burn. With a manual treadmill, you’ll have a valuable investment in your health and wellness.

How long should you walk on a manual treadmill?

Walking on a manual treadmill can bring numerous health benefits, even if it’s just for 10 minutes a day. Research has shown that just 10 minutes of daily walking can lead to improved health outcomes.

Furthermore, a 30-minute walk on a manual treadmill can help you reach your weight loss goals by burning up to 150 calories. The amount of time you should spend walking will vary depending on your individual goals and needs.

Are manual treadmills good for running?

If you are a runner looking for a manual treadmill, consider a curved belt design. These are the best option for generating your own power while running and can provide a more realistic running experience. Another option is a slat belt design, which is commonly found in athletic training facilities and is made with rubber slats rotating around the belt. However, these are typically more expensive and may not be suitable for home use.

About

Julien Raby is the owner of BoxLife. He owns a bachelor in literature and a certificate in marketing from Concordia. He's Crossfit Level 1 certified and has been involved in Crossfit since 2010. In 2023 he finally made it to Crossfit Open Quarterfinals for the first time. LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

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