Why It's Important to Find a Treadmill That Folds Up

A treadmill can help you achieve your goals, whether you're training for a race or just want to get in a quick workout. But it's important to find one that folds to save space.

To fold a treadmill, lift the deck toward the display. Then you must lock the latch knob with care to ensure it is secured.

Compact Design

Foldable treadmills are small enough to fit under a bed or in a closet when not in use but still provide plenty of running space. They're usually less expensive than treadmills that fold, and can allow you to stay active even on days when the weather isn't great or you have a busy schedule.

To find out if a treadmill that folds is the best fit for you, take into consideration your goals for fitness and the things you intend to use it for. Some treadmills are made for walking, while others allow light jogging or even short runs. If you're interested in training that involves running or higher speeds, it's essential to verify the treadmill's speed range as well as motor size before buying.

Non-folding treadmills tend to be much heavier, which makes them remain stable even at high speeds. However, they also have a design which can make them less sturdy especially when they are used by runners who push themselves to the limit. Find a treadmill that folds with safety features such as an emergency stop button that will ensure you can easily shut it down should you lose control.

Select a treadmill that has an efficient motor, and a large deck should you decide to purchase a foldable one that is safe for runners. The general rule is that an 2.5 horsepower motor is enough for casual runners and occasional sprinters, but serious runners should look for at least 3.5 horsepower to ensure that they can run comfortably at high speeds. Find a treadmill that has built-in cushions to lessen the knees' impact to allow you to run for longer periods of time without fear of injury.

Convenient Storage

If you live in a tiny space, you should be able to fold up your treadmill when it's not in use. Most treadmills that fold up have wheels that can be easily rolled away from the area where you exercise to make space for other activities, such as when the kids come home from school or you have dinner guests arriving later on. Non-folding models usually require more space since they are designed to be permanent fixtures in your home.

Although many treadmills that fold up are designed for smaller areas, they do not skimp on features or performance. For instance the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill folds up quickly thanks to a patented EasyLift assist mechanism. This treadmill comes with a 3.5 CHP engine as well as the 15% incline as well as an 3% decline.

Sunny Health & Fitness also offers the SF-T7632, a folding treadmill. This treadmill is easy to store in a cupboard or under a desk, and still has an incredibly comfortable running surface. Its small size and robust construction make it a great option for those looking to do some exercise while working or watching TV.

If you're thinking of buying an adjustable treadmill that folds, make sure you read the description to find out how it can be folded and stored. You'll also want to look at the frame dimensions and weight and also the added transport features, such as transportation wheels and carry handles that are built-in.

Travelle Gaines, a trainer at Blocks Nutrition in Los Angeles, says to PEOPLE that one of the biggest obstacles to staying active is not having enough time, which makes a treadmill that folds perfectly for busy people. She says that a treadmill that folds allows runners to run during or after work, or even during lunch.

Easy to Operate

The most effective treadmills that fold are able to be operated with ease regardless of whether they're used for a quick run or a home workout. Make sure you choose a treadmill with clear, intuitive controls like buttons for speed and incline, or touchscreen programming built-in, says Victoria Brady, an ACE-CPT for fitness brand Fyt. Find a motor with 2.0-2.5 hp if you plan on walking with power and choose one that is able to support routine running if you're a serious athlete.

A good foldable treadmill should also come with wheels, which makes 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 easier to get on and off a treadmill with wheels. You don't need to worry about moving the machine on your own.

It's also worth looking for a model that has additional features that are desirable, like ports for USB and headphone cables and holders for devices. The Echelon Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill for instance, comes with a crisp and bright display that displays a variety of motivational metrics and allows you to connect to fitness apps and track your heart rate, among other things.

Look into models with a gas shock that lets the deck lower slowly and gently instead of slamming onto the ground (like some models do without this technology). Also, consider a model that has a gas shock, which lets the deck lower slowly and gently, instead of hitting the ground (like certain models do without this feature). Check that your treadmill meets local safety standards.