Motorized treadmills may not suit certain people for many reasons. One of these reasons is the high cost – the motor is often the most sophisticated piece of equipment on a treadmill, especially if the treadmill doesn’t have things like a tv or pre-set workouts. There’s also the noise of the motor to think about as well as the energy cost. The most obvious way to counter this is simply not to have the motor.
Non-motorized treadmills often work within lower levels of speed. The speed at which the belt turns is controlled by you. This makes it safe for making what would otherwise be static workouts, such as squats, into a more dynamic workout by having to think about moving your legs. This improves agility and exercises more areas within your body. This also takes traditional exercises such as a mountain climber and adds to it as force has goes into turning the belt instead of simply just switching feet.
Non-motorized treadmills, also known as manual treadmills, come with many different features such as adjustable resistance and speed monitoring. They can also come with completely different shapes and inclines to aid the striding movement and propel the treadmill belt. Here we compare the different features of treadmills so you can get easy on the wallet solution to your treadmill needs.
What is the Best Non Motorized Treadmill?
To find the Best Non Motorized Treadmill for you we have used several of not motorized treadmills and selected the absolute top 7 non motorized treadmills.
This is based on our first-hand experiences, years of practice as well as individual research on what others have to say, so that we can give you a more well-rounded review.
Feel free to scroll to the end of this article for a short buying guide and some frequently asked questions.
1. Caroma Folding Portable Treadmill with APP Control
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 51.8 x 24.2 x 51.8 inches (131.6 x 61.5 x 131.6 cm) Speed: 5 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 2.5 hp Max weight: 220 lbs lbs Display type: LCD |
The Caroma Folding Treadmill is a good option for staying fit in the comfort of your home. It features a foldable design where the handrail is lowered flat along the running belt for convenient storage. Plus, you can use the treadmill while using a standing desk, making it easy to exercise as you work. However, it is a low-intensity treadmill that only helps you stay fit and healthy and is unsuitable for sports training. Also, it has a short and narrow running deck, and anyone with a long stride may find it uncomfortable to use.
We like its wide LCD touch screen that displays various workout metrics and the media rack with Bluetooth speakers for your tablet. This treadmill also gives you an option of 12 workout programs to alternate your exercise routine. It also enables you to connect to the Fitshow App that helps you keep track of your workout progress.
Pros
- Compact and easy to assemble out of the box,
- Low profile and foldable design for easy storage,
- Quiet motor,
- Provides 12 workout programs,
- It comes with a media rack with Bluetooth speakers for entertainment,
- Connects with a fitness app to monitor progress
Cons
- The short and narrow running deck may be uncomfortable for some users,
- The running belt needs tightening frequently
2. WalkingPad Ultra Slim Foldable Treadmill
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 66 pounds (29.94 kg) Size: 57 x 21.5 x 5 inches (144.8 x 54.6 x 12.7 cm) Speed: 3.5 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 1 hp Max weight: 220 lbs lbs Display type: HD |
The WalkingPad P1 is one of the best walking treadmills available at an affordable price point. It features a unique space-saving design that folds the treadmill 180 degrees and reduces its length by half. Plus, the deck is only 2.25 inches thick, which gives it a low profile to fit under any furniture for storage and is safe to use. The WalkingPad P1 is also one of the few treadmills in this price point that feature a high-strength aluminum frame that is durable. Another notable difference is that it does have a display screen on the treadmill like other brands. It comes with a larger than usual remote controller that features a high-definition monitor to display time, speed, calories, and distance. Additionally, the treadmill is compatible with proprietary Kingsmith’s KSFit app that controls the treadmill much better than the remote control device. It connects faster than the remote and does not turn off the display in the middle of a workout as the remote does. Plus, you can share your exercise data with more detailed fitness apps such as Google Fit or use them simultaneously.
The P1 comes with a 1HP motor that delivers reliable and quiet operation without stalling or overheating. The walking deck features a speed control technology that uses foot sensors to increase or decrease the speed depending on where you are stepping on the walking surface. This feature works in automatic mode, and it takes some getting used to. On the other hand, you can add or reduce your pace on the manual setting with the remote control or app.
Pros
- 180-degree folding design to save space in storage,
- Uses a remote controller and KSFit app to display metrics,
- It can control the speed using foot sensors on the deck,
- Suitable for low-intensity pace walking at home or office
Cons
- The treadmill does not connect easily with the remote controller,
- You’ll need the app to unlock top speed,
- Running belt may require frequent adjusting
3. WalkingPad R2 Treadmill
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 79 pounds (35.83 kg) Size: 57.1 x 28.4 x 51.2 inches (145 x 72.1 x 130 cm) Speed: 6.5 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 1.2 hp Max weight: 242 lbs lbs Display type: LCD |
The WalkingPad R2 features a unique double folding design with the handrail and walking deck folding 180 degrees to maximize space during storage. The treadmill is a high-quality model with an aluminum alloy construction that supports a maximum user weight of 242 pounds. The telescopic handrail is another attractive feature because it enables users to adjust it to a comfortable height.
This model features a generous walking surface measuring 47.2 x 17.3 inches with a step-up height of 2.7 inches to provide a secure footing without handlebar support. It has a top speed of 6 miles per hour, which produces a light jog for most users. This model also features an automatic speed setting that enables users to adjust their pace using foot sensors on the deck. However, this feature will not work with the handlebar raised for safety.
Pros
- Automatic walking feature that adjusts your speed conveniently,
- Enables walking and light jogging speeds for cardio workouts,
- Dual folding design is unique and saves on storage space,
- Telescopic handlebar adjusts to various user heights,
- Large font and high contrast digits on display screen are easily visible,
- Brushless motor provides reliable power and quiet exercise environment
Cons
- Running belt requires frequent alignment to center it,
- The handlebar provides a small media rack
4. Sunny Health & Fitness Manual Treadmill with 16 Levels of Magnetic Resistance
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 110 pounds (49.9 kg) Size: 59 x 27 x 55 inches (149.9 x 68.6 x 139.7 cm) Max Incline: 13.5% Fixed ° Max weight: 300 lbs lbs |
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7723 is a manual treadmill that helps you perform high-intensity cardio workouts, strengthen your leg muscles, and assist with weight loss. The treadmill features a heavy-duty steel frame that supports users who weigh up to 300 pounds. While it comes in several parts, it is easy to assemble and requires little maintenance to keep it in good working condition.
The SF-T7723 has a decent-sized running area that accommodates users with a long stride. The deck incorporates shock-absorbing elements to reduce the impact on your joints and prevent foot fatigue during long workout sessions. The treadmill also features a fixed 13.5% incline to build strong legs and help you burn more calories as the workout gets more intense. Additionally, it features dual flywheels that provide a stable and smooth belt motion and 16 resistance levels to challenge your exercise. While it is a manual treadmill, it is an excellent option for full-body exercise and weight loss.
Pros
- Folding deck design enables easy storage in small spaces,
- Sizable running deck to facilitate tall users,
- Features multiple handlebars for support and stability,
- Provides magnetic resistance with 16 levels for more intensity
Cons
- Has a non-adjustable incline level,
- Not easy to run without using the handlebars
5. ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 49 pounds (22.23 kg) Size: 51 x 47 x 23 inches (129.5 x 119.4 x 58.4 cm) Max Incline: 10 ° Max weight: 230 lbs Display type: LCD Monitor |
The ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill is a low-cost model with features similar to the Fitness Reality TR1000 Manual Treadmill. It has a robust and high-quality build to give you a long service life, and its foldable deck makes storage convenient. The unit features two incline levels at six and ten degrees but does not have a flat deck option. The inclined deck provides a more intense workout and muscle toning, which may not appeal to users with limited mobility. The ProGear 190 features a single-piece handrail with foam grips for comfort and a minimalist digital console to display time, speed, distance, and calories burned. The deck features a 43″ L x 13.25″ W belt that provides a comfortable walking space for the average-sized adult. However, some users may find it a little small, especially if they have long strides. Additionally, the treadmill supports a 230-pound weight limit, which may limit heavy-weight users. On the upside, many users have observed that the ProGear 190 is remarkably stable while in use, while its twin flywheels and oversized rollers enable the belt to move smoothly and quietly. While it provides an excellent cardio workout on a budget, manual treadmills generally work on the lower body and may not satisfy all your fitness needs.
Pros
- Durable and stable construction may provide a long service life,
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport and storage,
- Foam grip handles provide stability and safety,
- Two incline levels help build strong leg muscles
Cons
- Does not provide a flat deck option for low-intensity exercising,
- Not easy to realign the walking belt
6. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M Foldable Manual Walking Treadmill
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 46.7 pounds (21.18 kg) Size: 50 x 49 x 23 inches (127 x 124.5 x 58.4 cm) Max Incline: 13.5 ° Max weight: 220 lbs Display type: Digital Monitor |
Walking is an excellent way to start your fitness journey, and if you are looking for a no-fuss, affordable, and effective method of walking at home, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M model is a great choice. It is a manual treadmill that helps you lose weight, improve your health, and fitness by using weighted flywheels to provide momentum according to your pace. The treadmill features a compact 42″L x 13″W walking deck that makes the unit suitable for tight spaces and also features a folding design for easy storage. While it doesn’t have automatic speed adjustments, the treadmill features a fixed 13.5% incline that makes the walking exercises more intense and a non-slip belt for traction. Plus, you can track your speed, distance, and other metrics with the battery-powered LCD monitor, but the treadmill does not include any heart rate monitoring.
While this is a considerably cheap option attractive to people with a low budget, some of its drawbacks include poor build quality that may not withstand prolonged use and a cramped walking belt for comfortable use. Some users also noted that they needed to support themselves on the handlebars for momentum and stability due to the steep incline.
Pros
- The non-motorized operation makes it flexible to install anywhere,
- Compact and lightweight construction makes it easy to assemble,
- Affordable price that is attractive for entry-level buyers,
- Fixed incline provides more intensity to burn more calories
Cons
- The compact walking belt may constrict some users,
- May not provide a full-body workout,
- The fixed incline may be too steep for some users
7. Portable Folding 4-in-1 Manual Treadmill
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 34.24 pounds (15.53 kg) Size: 41.3 x 20.8 x 45.2 inches (104.9 x 52.8 x 114.8 cm) Max Incline: 3 Levels ° Max weight: 220 lbs lbs Display type: LED |
The Vehpro Portable treadmill is a good choice for seniors and people with limited mobility to exercise their muscles. It is also suitable for people who want to stay fit with some cardio exercises at home. It is a lightweight unit with a foldable handrail for easy storage and comes ready to use. It features an LED screen to display your workout metrics and help you keep track of your progress. The treadmill is manual, so it is quiet and requires less maintenance than the electric models. Plus, the 20-inch walking belt is broader and feels more secure to use than typical folding treadmills. It also has incorporated damping technology that absorbs impact to prevent injuries on your knee and ankle joints. The deck allows three levels of manual incline adjustments to add intensity to your exercise routine. The foldable handrail enables height adjustments for comfort.
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel construction makes it sturdy and durable,
- Wear-resistant running belt with shock absorption technology
- Three incline adjustments and tension control increase workout intensity,
- The handrail is height adjustable for user comfort,
- The 20-inch running belt provides secure footing for light jogs
Cons
- The treadmill is unsuitable for serious training,
- Has a low weight capacity to cater for weight loss users
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 7 Best Non Motorized Treadmill, our absolute top pick is Caroma Folding Portable Treadmill with APP Control.
If you have the money, you can go for WalkingPad Ultra Slim Foldable Treadmill which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the WalkingPad R2 Treadmill.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying non motorized treadmills
Assembly
Assembling the treadmill on your own is one of the key thing components to consider. Some treadmill retailers will offer assembly included within the purchase price or at an additional fee. If you don’t feel confident to assemble it yourself, we recommend you include the cost of assembly in your initial budget. This will help avoid incorrect assembly which may damage your treadmill in the long run. If you choose to assemble the treadmill yourself, it should be relatively intuitive. First, refer to the instruction manual and make sure the instructions are clear and you have the correct tools. Take inventory of the parts and make sure nothing is missing, then begin the assembly. The process will vary depending on your product choice, but the main tasks include cable routing, arm installation, and display unit assembly. We recommend you purchase a treadmill with assembly instructions that include pictures and are easy to understand.
Noise
The quality of a treadmill can sometimes be gauged by the amount of noise it produces when it’s used. No one wants a loud, clunky machine that leaves your ears ringing after use, so there are a few key things to look out for when buying a treadmill. The first is the treadmill mat. Typically, the thicker the mat, the less vibration and noise there will be. This is because the mat can absord the vibration before it’s converted to noise. Noise can also be minimised by good quality bearings and treadmill parts. However, as with most other treadmill features, a quiet and sturdier treadmill generally costs more, so we recommend that you consider how important minimising minimal noise is to you during your workout
Walking/running speed
An average person’s walking pace ranges from 1 to 4 mph, jogging from 4 to 6mph, and running beyond 6mph. Depending on the model, treadmills have varied speed ranges. The speed may be adjusted to suit your desired level of workout intensity or training. The maximum speed on most treadmills designed for home use is 10 to 12mph. The commercial models used in gyms have a greater top speed of 12 to 14mph. When compared to their nonfolding counterparts, folding treadmills while being more portable, have a lower peak speed.
Treadmill dimensions
A treadmill’s dimensions is a key factor to consider especially for individuals bigger or taller than the average medium. Treadmill models come in a variety of sizes, based on their intended usage and the features they provide. A treadmill’s typical dimensions are 3 to 4 feet (91 to 122 cm) broad, 6 to 7 feet (183 to 213 cm) long and about 5 feet (152 cm) tall. Some folding treadmill models may be significantly smaller in size. Average home treadmills weigh between 80 – 115kg, however treadmills intended for commercial use may weigh more. Manual treadmills are averagely lighter than motorized models. The heavier the treadmill, the more weight it may be able to support and the more stable it can be. If you’re concerned about space, you may want to consider a treadmill of a maximum of 190cm in length, 105cm in width and 160cm tall. A lighter treadmill of about 90kg should be considered for easy mobility.
Running Area
The running area is referred to as the belt or deck size, and is a key component of every treadmill. The dimensions of the treadmill running area vary depending on the intended use. For runners, a 20 to 22-inches wide belt/running area is recommended, whereas for walkers, an 18 to 20-inches belt would suffice. In terms of the length, a minimum belt length of 45 inches is recommended for walkers, 50 inches for runners, and 55 inches for runners over 6 feet tall. The belt’s thickness is also significant since it contributes to cushioning when running. The more padding and support supplied to the legs and joints, the thicker the belt. Some belts may also include an integrated cushion to aid with shock absorption when running.
Questions and Answers About non motorized treadmills
Are manual treadmills good for cardio?
Yes, manual treadmills are great for cardiovascular endurance workouts and burning high amounts of calories because the user needs to supply and maintain the treadmill’s momentum without the assistance of a motor. However, they require a lot of effort and focus to operate, so they are not the best treadmill choice for those looking to zone out while working out.
Can we keep treadmill in balcony?
A treadmill on a balcony allows the user to enjoy exercise at home without losing the beneits of fresh air. As long as the treadmill is properly cleaned, maintained and sheltered from the weather, there is no reason you can’t keep your treadmill on the balcony. Try to keep the treadmill out of direct sunlight as much as possible to protect the electrical components and prevent fading. Make sure the treadmill is on level ground using a spirit level, and consider covering the treadmill in a waterproof cover when not in use.
What are some possible drawbacks of very cheap treadmills?
Cheap treadmills are likely to feature low-quality components, such as motors, wiring systems, system boards, and the machine belt, which could wear out quickly if used to its full potential. Aside from the added costs of replacing a treadmill, cheap treadmills with speeds less than roughly 10 miles per hour and little or no inclination function do not work to their full potential. These less expensive ones are frequently found to be unreliable in keeping track of time, distance, and burnt calories, which are the primary purposes of using a treadmill machine.
Can you lose weight with a manual treadmill?
Losing weight is the result of using more calories than you are eating. This is why exercise is an important part of losing weight, because if allows you to burn high amounts of calories. Manual treadmills are a great way of using high amounts of calories because they force you to supply and maintain running momentum without the help of a powered motor. If you use a manual treadmill consistently while controlling the calories you eat, you can definitely lose weight using a manual treadmill.
