What's The Best Home Treadmill For Running?

I’ve been spending a LOT of time researching treadmills and other fitness equipment the last several months. I’m also training regularly which is a ton of fun.

Ever since I launched this site (it’s not a year old), I’ve had the great pleasure of hearing from many readers through our contact form. I love hearing from you and doing my best to answer your questions.

The most common question I get from readers is “which treadmill do you recommend?”

It makes sense that you want to get an opinion as to which treadmill to buy. Deciding on a particular treadmill isn’t easy. It’s a big purchase.

Accordingly, I’ve decided to respond to this popular question with a series of “best of” articles.

DISCLAIMER:

Before I tell you what I believe to be the best home treadmill for running, you must know that I have not personally used every treadmill on the market. That means my recommendation is NOT based on personally testing every treadmill available. Instead, my recommendation is based on my experience using a lot of treadmills, and reviewing the features of hundreds of treadmills and brands.

Also, I have a bias towards longer running decks and more motor power because I’m over 6 feet tall and weigh 210 pounds. However, given I’m recommending a treadmill for running that suits my size and weight, it should be more than sufficient for most people.

Moreover, I’m of the view that my recommendations are worth something given my experience using treadmills and researching treadmills. That’s why I wrote this article answering “what’s the best home treadmill for running?”

Okay, what is the best home treadmill for running?

I’m recommend 2 treadmills – one folding and one non-folding. I’m confident you’ll be pleased with either of these two treadmills.

#1: Sole F80 Treadmill – Folding

The key specifications are as follows:

MSRP: $2,099 – but it’s often discounted to $1,499.
Folding: Yes
Motor: 3.0 HP
Top speed: 12 mph
Incline: 0 – 15%
Running deck size: 20″ x 60″
Includes Sole’s Cushion Flex Shock Absorption system which provides a .365 lower impact than walking or running on asphalt without compromising stability.
2 heart rate monitoring options: pulse grips and wireless chest strap.

#2: Sole S77 Non-Folding Treadmill

Key specifications are as follows:

MSRP: $2,499 – but it’s often discounted to $1,899.
Folding: No
Motor: 3.5 HP
Top speed: 12 mph
Incline: 0 – 15%
Running deck size: 22″ x 60″
Includes Sole’s Cushion Flex Shock Absorption system which provides a .365 lower impact than walking or running on asphalt without compromising stability.
2 heart rate monitoring options: pulse grips and wireless chest strap.

Why are these two my recommended best home treadmill for running?

5 reasons these two treadmills come out on top:

1. The price is decent given the quality and features.

For under $2,000 you get a well-built treadmill with the necessary power, running space, and motor power to run. Let’s face it, price is almost always a consideration. Sure, if you’re prepared to spend $5,000 you could buy a commercial treadmill used in gyms. But most people don’t budget more than $1,500 to $2,000 for a treadmill.

2. Sufficient Power

If you want a treadmill for running, a 3.0 horsepower motor is for you. In fact, the S77 has a 3.5 horsepower which is not commonly found for a home treadmill.

3. Adequate Running Space

When you run, your gait is longer than walking. This means you need sufficient space without feeling crowded or as concerned about falling off the back end. Both of these Sole treadmills are 60 inches long. The F80 is 20 inches wide; the S77 is 22 inches wide.

4. Enough Speed

If you’re running you need a top speed higher than the common 10 miles per hour top speed. Both of these Sole treadmills have a top speed of 12 miles per hour. That’s a 5 minute mile which accommodates most runners.

5. Wireless Heart Rate Monitoring Technology

I hate using pulse grips. This is particularly the case when running. When you hang onto bars, you’re not working out as hard as you would without hanging onto bars. Besides, if you’re running, you want to be able to pump your arms freely to accurately gauge your distance and speed. Plus, pumping your arms gives a better workout.

I’ll add one more comment. Sole Treadmills offer a lifetime motor and frame warranty. This is as good as it gets with a treadmill warranty. Sole stands behind their treadmills.