If you’re thinking of buying a treadmill or taking the time to train your body and get fit, this can be done with a treadmill.
However, there are many treadmills to choose from, and where do you start if price is an issue, or you’re on a budget ?
Don’t worry or get swept away with research and information.
That’s why I’m here, to help you check out the best treadmills under $500 for exercise.
Why Buy a Treadmill Under $500?
Is buying the best treadmill under 500 worth it?
A treadmill is perfect for those who may be pinched for time. Investing in exercise equipment and creating a workout area isn’t a bad thing to consider.
If you are a runner or a fitness enthusiast looking to include one of the best cardio workouts in your training, a treadmill is essential for both exercise variety and effectiveness.
My Budget-Conscious Treadmill Recommendations:
Alright, let’s get down to it now.
So what are the best treadmills under $500?
Drumroll please…
Here is my list of what I’d recommend if you’re thinking of buying a treadmill.
The best treadmills under $500 go to:
Top Pick
Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill
Comes with a lot of features and is space-saving with its foldable capabilities. This is a solid choice for fitness and treadmill workouts.
Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill
The Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill is a perfect balance of must have treadmill features, like incline, speed, ease of use, and comfortable platform space to walk and run.
Plus it is affordable, durable, and portable.
The Weslo Cadence is so good as a cardio machine I’d give it all the “Best Treadmills” awards if I could.
Best Value

Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill
A steal of a deal for a built-in heart rate monitor, exercise programs, and bluetooth speakers.
Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill
The Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill is a solid option to make sure you get movement in without breaking the bank.
It’s under $300 which makes the barrier to entry low.
If you are looking to keep your steps high, especially through the winter months, conveniently from your house, the Confidence will have you confident in your choice of treadmills.
Editor’s Choice

ProForm Cadence WLT Folding Treadmill
It’s gotta be the ProForm Cadence WLT Folding Treadmill.
It’s a bit more money than other treadmills, but still under $500.
Quality
It offers the most quality and best experience on an affordable treadmill.
The iFit workouts and the springy running deck will leave you winded, proud of yourself, and believing you could do it all over again.
I would definitely recommend the ProForm to anyone looking to up their fitness game and stick to their walking and running goals.
Best Home Treadmill Under $500

Sunny Health And Fitness SF-T4400
Great unit for its price. It has everything necessary for a treadmill: a solid deck size, motor function, and speeds.
Sunny Health And Fitness SF-T4400
Sunny Health And Fitness SF T4400 takes the cake. This treadmill is one of those that has got everything necessary for a treadmill that is under $500 — a solid deck size, motor function, and speeds.
It’ll be tough to beat the features offered at this price point. You won’t be disappointed with this steal of deal.
Best Incline Treadmill Under $500

Sunny Health And Fitness SF-T4400
Great unit for its price. It has everything necessary for a treadmill: a solid deck size, motor function, and speeds.
Sunny Health And Fitness SF-T4400
While the other treadmills offer two incline settings, the Sunny Health And Fitness SF-T4400 offers three and has a warranty program for a full year in case anything should occur.
Best Folding Treadmill Under $500

Sunny Health And Fitness Exercise Treadmill SF-T7603
An awesome electric treadmill on the market. It comes packed with features such as the soft drop system, lcd screen, quick speed buttons, a water bottle holder.
Sunny Health And Fitness Exercise Treadmill SF-T7603
The Sunny Health And Fitness Folding Treadmill highlights this “best” category right in the name.
Hello space saving and clearing!
Best Treadmill Under 500$ For Running

XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
A stable, durable, compact, and well rated treadmill with a lot of functions for a more sustained or steady state type run, walk, or workout.
XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill takes it.
XTERRA Fitness might be an expert fitness equipment provider because of the stellar features combined with a sturdy build in an excellent price range.
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Walking

Goplus Folding Treadmill
Excellent for efficient and effective workouts and quickly stored away due to its folding capabilities.
Goplus Folding Treadmill
I have a super bias here, because I think it’s cool and I wholly believe the separation for fitness and health lies in your normal daily activities.
The winner for this category is the Goplus Folding Treadmill. Go get yourself this under desk treadmill and a stand desk — it’ll change your life.
My Goplus Folding Treadmill is being shipped to me tomorrow. I seriously talked myself into it as I wrote this piece. How could I not?!
Best Treadmill for HIIT

Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill
A good option for those that enjoy sprint intervals and other speed drills to intensify their exercise.
Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill
The Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill! In one word: DURABILITY. Because it is all around heavier, that quality makes it the right choice to take a little extra beating in intense or faster cardio workouts.
There is a reason this won out for me as the overall best HIIT treadmill.
Best Budget Treadmill under $500
Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill
Comes with a lot of features and is space-saving with its foldable capabilities. This is a solid choice for fitness and treadmill workouts.
Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill
Because the Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill meets the criteria for being under $500 AND it’s a standing piece across multiple categories — this is the number one recommendation. Hence falling in the top spot!
The Best Budget Treadmills Under $500
Here are the full reviews of each product from the lineup…
Best Folding Treadmill Under $500

XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
A stable, durable, compact, and well rated treadmill with a lot of functions for a more sustained or steady state type run, walk, or exercise.
XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
For less than $400 you can get once of the highest rated residential treadmills available.
The Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill is light-weight and convenient to move around your residence or store out the way as well as offer the technology that might be more similar to commercial treadmills in the gym.
Features
It has easy to access speed buttons, 3 – incline settings to challenge you, and pre-programmed workouts to keep you on your toes as you exercise and run.
The LCD display makes it quick to read your time and distance.
You can also use the heart rate monitor on the handrails, to keep track of how hard you’ve been working.
Function
The Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill is an awesome option for runners, walkers, and athletes who need to make sure their training varies and is intense.
I love a good HIIT-style cardio sesh.
Often my pace and incline will change by the minute.
With the Xterra TR150 folding treadmill, that would be a little cumbersome because you have to manually adjust the incline.
That’s a lot of off and on the treadmill as well as turning the machine on and off.
Incline
If you will be changing your incline through your workout, the Xterra Fitness TR150 may not be the treadmill for you.
Also, if you’re hoping to sync your smartwatch to maximize your training efforts on the Xterra Fitness TR150, that’s a no go.
Weight Capacity
While this treadmill does accommodate up to 250 pound users, my guy friend who has a Xterra Fitness TR150 and is 205 pounds says it is really not meant for him to run on.
However, it’s excellent to add more walking to his day, especially as he works from home.
The Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill is a stable, durable, compact, and well rated treadmill with a lot of functions for a more sustained or steady state type run, walk, or workout.
Specs
- Dimensions: 63.4 x 28.75 x 51.4 inches
- Belt Width: 16" X 50" running surface
- Incline: 3 – manual incline settings
- Speed: 0.5 – 10 miles per hour (MPH)
- Built-in workout programs: Yes
- Heart rate monitor: Yes,
- Bluetooth connectivity: No
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds maximum
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
Pros
- Lightweight and flexible for storage while still offering durability and stability for performance.
- Very affordable for the options and features you get.
- Easy, quick assembly.
- Super positive feedback from users who have used the treadmill more than one-year.
Cons
- Maximum weight should be more like 170 pounds if you intend to run on this treadmill.
- Incline settings leave more to be desired.
- Be gentle and careful when folding to ensure safety for you and the treadmill.
Best Incline Treadmill Under $500

Sunny Health And Fitness Exercise Treadmill SF-T7603
An awesome electric treadmill on the market. It comes packed with features such as the lcd screen, quick speed buttons, a water bottle holder.
Sunny Health And Fitness Exercise Treadmill SF-T7603
The Sunny Health and Fitness Folding Treadmill is an awesome electric treadmill on the market and one of the more well-known brands.
Soft Drop System
A bit more advanced than the Xterra Fitness TR150, the Sunny Health and Fitness treadmill offers a soft drop system which gently lowers the treadmill’s deck to the floor.
While that may seem unimpressive, as you wheel your treadmill to where your exercise area is, you’ll appreciate that the deck doesn’t suddenly drop and dent the floor.
Seriously, ask the hardwood in my living room — which has seen better days.
I GUESS I could be more careful too.
Other Features
Beyond that super nice feature, this treadmill comes with: handrail pulse sensors to keep tabs on your heart rate, an LCD screen to track your time and distance, quick speed buttons to adjust your pace, incline, and water bottle holders to stay hydrated through your exercise.
In my opinion, water bottle holders are like dresses with pockets. Yes, please.
Am I right ladies?
To continue the list of awesomeness that the Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill provides, it has built-in user programs to keep variety in each session.
Warranty
A major drawback to this treadmill is that the warranty is only 90 days.
It’s advisable to be mindful of the max weight (220 lbs) when planning to do heavy running.
While most users have a good experience, on the off chance that something happens — I hope you are handy! You are your best bet for any fixes.
Specs
- Dimensions: 62 x 27 x 47 inches
- Belt Width: 16" X 49" running surface
- Incline: Manual incline settings
- Speed: 0.5 – 9 miles per hour (MPH)
- Built-in workout programs: Yes, 9 of them!
- Heart rate monitor: Yes
- Bluetooth connectivity: No
- Maximum user weight: 220 lbs.
- Warranty: 90 days — keep your receipt!
Pros
- A bang for your buck!
- A quiet, electric machine to use and move around for use and storage.
- The options abound for workouts with speeds, inclines, and programming.
Cons
- Again, the max load weight, 220 lbs., is probably a stretch if you intend to run or do anything high intensity.
- The warranty is super short. If you have a knack for breaking electronics, like me, you may want to look into a treadmill with a longer warranty period.
Best Home Treadmill Under $500

Sunny Health And Fitness SF T4400
Great unit for its price. It has everything necessary for a treadmill: a solid deck size, motor function, and speeds.
Sunny Health And Fitness SF T4400
Another, more upscale, treadmill from Sunny Healthy and Fitness is the Sunny Healthy and Fitness SF T4400.
Unlike the Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF T4400 does have a year long warranty attached to it.
It also includes a digital LCD screen for calories, heart rate, and speed, quick speed buttons to adjust your pace.
Features
The soft drop hydraulic system supports the folding and unfolding of the treadmill deck.
A variety of preset workouts are available on the unit as well as through the manufacturer’s site online make this product a cardio training gem.
The manual adjustable incline, water bottle holder, and device ledge are nice touches too. You already know I love the hydration station but it’s super nice to have a spot for your phone or tablet to watch a show, check your socials, or reply to emails as you get your steps in.
Weight Capacity
The downside to the SF T4400 is the weight capacity combined speed durability. Like many other budget treadmills, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF T4400 doesn’t have a reputation for holding up to higher weights.
Durability
Furthermore, if you intend to really get after it running — it’s along the same line — not a lot of durability for much beyond the warranty period.
If you purchase the Sunny Health & Fitness SF T4400 (or really any other low-cost treadmill), you gotta do some math to figure out how frequently you’d like to pay about $350 and does your usage outweigh the replacement fees.
Specs
- Dimensions: 49”x 27”x 42” inches
- Belt Width: 40" x16" running surface
- Incline: No
- Speed: 0.6 – 7.5 miles per hour
- Workout programs: No
- Heart rate monitor: No
- Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
- Weight capacity: 265 pounds maximum
- Warranty: 1-year warranty⏎
Pros
- Color options are fun or a way to match your decor (available in silver, black, champagne, dark green, and red).
- Easy to store and use as you work, provided you have a standing desk or desk topper.
- The max. weight capacity is higher which suggests it might be more durable for a wider range of body sizes.
- The price range is still low enough to justify the benefits of the treadmill without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Not exactly a fitness treadmill. Intended mainly to get more activity into your busy work day or walking and jogging on a flat surface.
- No heart rate monitors located on the treadmill itself, so you might want to grab a smartwatch if you are into that.
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Walking

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
Excellent for efficient and effective workouts and quickly stored away due to its folding capabilities.
Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
I have to say, the Goplus Folding Treadmill has really struck my fancy.
Largely because the minimalist design is intended to slide under your work desk.
Features
If you’d like a treadmill that has the capacity to be in walk or run mode (run mode has an easy to attach handrail), cushy treadmill belt, bluetooth technology to play your music through as you workout, and a speed range of .6 to 7.5 MPH.
Compact
Like other models the Goplus Folding Treadmill is excellent for efficient and effective workouts and quickly stored away due to its folding capabilities.
The not-so-awesome part — the Goplus does get up to the 9 or 10 miles per hour that others are capable of.
There is also no option for incline.
Nonetheless, you can walk all day at your standing desk or take a brisk jog on this baby.
Specs
- Dimensions: 49”x 27”x 42” inches
- Belt Width: 40" x16" running surface
- Incline: No
- Speed levels: 0.6 – 7.5 miles per hour
- Workout programs: No
- Heart rate monitor: No
- Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
- Weight capacity: 265 pounds maximum
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
Pros
- Color options are fun or a way to match your decor (available in silver, black, champagne, dark green, and red
- Easy to store and use as you work, provided you have a standing desk or desk topper.
- The max weight capacity is higher which suggests it might be more durable for a wider range of body sizes.
- The price range is still low enough to justify the benefits of the treadmill without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Not exactly a fitness treadmill. Intended mainly to get more activity into your busy work day or walking and jogging on a flat surface.
- No heart rate monitors located on the treadmill itself, so you might want to grab a smartwatch if you are into that.
Top Pick
Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill
Comes with a lot of features and its space-saving with its foldable capabilities. This is a solid choice for fitness and treadmill workouts.
Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill
Once again, space saving with its foldable capabilities, the Weslo Cadence G 5 9 is a solid choice for fitness and treadmill workouts.
Workouts
In addition to built-in workouts it comes with iFit Studio classes.
Think of iFit like Peloton or the Mirror.
You choose your trainer and they lead you through intense HIIT sessions based on your exercise level.
However, the iFit and the Weslo Cadence G 5 9 Treadmill come at a more approachable price range.
Comfort Cell Technology
Beyond the excellent price point and the iFit offerings, the Weslo Cadence G 5 boasts Comfort Cell technology in the belt to support your joints, a max. weight of 275 pounds, bluetooth technology to sync your tablet or phone for entertainment or workouts,
The Weslo Cadence G 5 9 might just be the best treadmill for under $500.
Specs
- Dimensions: 55.5” H x 29” W x 64.5” D inches
- Belt Width: 16” x 50" running surface
- Incline: 2 – manual incline settings
- Speed levels: 0.5 – 10 miles per hour
- Workout programs: No
- Heart rate monitor: No
- Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds maximum
- Warranty: 1-year motor warranty and 90 day parts and labor warranty
Pros
- Variety of speeds, inclines, and the iFit programs.
- The price is right for the functions and features available.
Cons
- No LCD display to view the iFit programs. You need to set your phone or tablet up and connect it to the bluetooth.
Best Treadmill Under $500 for HIIT

Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill
A good option for those that enjoy sprint intervals and other speed drills to intensify their exercise.
Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill
The Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill just makes it under the $500 treadmill agreement. It is a sweet deal for its amenities.
This at-home beauty offers 2 options for its incline and it gets your arms involved with the CrossWalk upper body systems.
Features
The Weslo CrossWalk 5 2T handlebars feature is similar to that of an elliptical and includes a pulse heart rate monitor.
It’s still a folding treadmill for easy storage, but it is heavy duty — think more durable than previous treadmills.
Weight
The Weslo Crosswalk 5 2T Treadmill’s 127 pound weight might be seen as an inconvenience, depending who you are.
The LCD display screen offers easy-to-read metrics like calories burned — which will be high because of that CrossWalk arm action.
Function
While it is a more sturdy residential treadmill, this unit only offers 4 programs that are built in.
But because it’s a little more heavy duty, the Weslo is a good option for those that enjoy sprint intervals and other speed drills to intensify their exercise.
Specs
- Dimensions: 66 x 30 x 9 inches
- Belt Width: 16” x 50" running area
- Incline: 2 incline levels with manual adjustment
- Speed levels: 0 -10 miles per hour
- Built-in workout programs: 4 of them
- Heart rate monitor: Yes
- Bluetooth connectivity: No
- Weight capacity: 260 pound maximum weight
- Warranty: 90 days warranty
Pros
- Heavier duty residential treadmill for more running or intense cardio routines.
- Unique CrossWalk upper body arms.
- Good range of speed and incline.
- Sturdy.
Cons
- Heavy & Cumbersome.
- Maybe not a budget option.
- Only a 90 day warranty is available.
Best Value

Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill
A steal of a deal for a built-in heart rate monitor, exercise programs, and bluetooth speakers.
Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill
The Confidence Power Plus is a popular and well thought of treadmill.
During the pandemic, everyone rushed out to get a treadmill and the Confidence Power Plus Treadmill was suddenly out of stock everywhere.
That seems like a good indication that Confidence treadmills are among the best treadmills!
Build
The Fitness Ultra Treadmill from Confidence is a steal for a folding treadmill and it’s even termed a “motorized running machine.”
So to all my runner ladies — pay close attention here.
Features
Offering all the typical features for folding treadmills, the Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill is a steal of a deal for a built in heart rate monitor, exercise programs, bluetooth speakers.
No LCD display, but offers space to stow your tablet or phone for treadmill exercise videos or movie watchin’ on your long run.
It’s not the Confidence Power Plus Treadmill, but it’s the next best Confidence electric treadmill under $500.
Specs
- Dimensions: 51 x 24 x 45.5 inches
- Belt Width: 39 x 14 running surface
- Incline: 3 manual incline settings
- Speed: 0.6 – 6 miles per hour
- Workout programs: 12 preset programs
- Heart rate monitor: Yes
- Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
- Weight capacity: 240 pounds
Pros
- Price
- Reputation
Cons
- The running surface is short and not very wide at all, so there is less freedom of movement. Stay very present so you don’t fall off!
- Confidence treadmills sell out FAST!
Editor’s Choice

ProForm Cadence WLT Folding Treadmill
Cadence treadmill is a minimalist treadmill that suits your needs and your pocket book.
ProForm Cadence WLT Folding Treadmill
ProForm is a reputable name in the fitness equipment business.
The ProForm Performance 300i is a higher end residential treadmill ($900+) that many home gym owners love.
In an effort to stick to our “treadmill for under $500” goal and review, I offer you the ProForm Cadence Electric Treadmill.
The more affordable equivalent of Proform Performance 300i.
Features
It’s got a springy deck designed to bend and shock absorb as you run.
It also has a thumb heart rate monitor, LCD display for speed, time and calories, and goes up to 10 MPH.
Programs
Compatible with iFit for running and walking programs, the ProForm Cadence WLT is a minimalist treadmill that suits your needs and your pocket book.
The ProForm Cadence is a second best treadmill to its more expensive counterpart, the ProForm Performance 300i.
While more simplistic, the Cadence is a great treadmill with little sticker shock.
Specs
- Dimensions: 65.9" H x 46.8" W x 29.4" inches
- Belt Width: 16" x 50" running area
- Incline: No
- Speed levels: 0 – 10 miles per hour
- Workout programs: iFit enabled and compatible with bluetooth technology
- Heart rate monitor: Yes
- Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Warranty: 1-year motor warranty and 90 days parts and labor warranty
Pros
- Price
- The spring deck technology maximizes the weight capacity for running.
Cons
- No incline options — not even manually.
- Maybe some worry about quality at this price range.
What Makes the Best Treadmill?
The best unit for you meets your exercise needs and your budget.
It’s easy to set up and easy to use.There’s not too much fear of it breaking down.
You want it to be USEFUL…
If you’re not going to use it regularly (at least a couple times a week), you are better off getting a coat rack.
I only say that because my first treadmill only used as such — not very aesthetic and very cumbersome.
Best Treadmill Warranty Program:
It’s my personal opinion that none of these options have a killer warranty.
I mentioned this a tiny bit earlier, I think this is more a question for you about short term finances and long term investment.
What’s the Difference from Expensive Treadmills?
The difference between more expensive treadmills, like those you’d see at your local LA Fitness or Gold’s Gym, and the under $500 treadmills you’d get for your house is largely going to be the automated features and number of settings available.
High End
More expensive treadmills will certainly offer move speeds, inclines, and workout programs and they will happen as if by magic (a.k.a. electricity).
Easily changed up mid-workout — perhaps even multiple times.
Home Versions
With the home versions, the inclines are all manual. You’ll need to decide what grade you’ll run or walk at before getting started.
I’d recommend keeping it there for your whole workout too.
You could switch it up, but varying the incline will definitely take some time.
Although, it could be a “strength” portion of your workouts!
Quality
Speeds and workout programs on the $500 or under treadmills are still simple enough to use and alter during your run or walk.
Beyond this, there is certainly more quality assurance and warranties available with the more expansion treadmills.
Up to you if that’s important for you.
Why Buy a Treadmill Under $500?
Convenience
First and foremost, the convenience of having a treadmill at your residence is quickly noticeable. There are no more excuses to miss your workouts or not get steps in.
Whether you work from your house, are a stay-at-home mom, or just don’t want to go one more place after work, you’ll find having a treadmill just down the hall is relieving and time saving.
What is a Treadmill?
Components of the Treadmill
Usually, it consists of a belt that moves at different speeds and inclines to walk, jog, run, side shuffle, walking lunge, or, if you are daring, to backpedal (a.k.a. jog backwards) at.
Never fear while you push yourself to do crazy cardio moves — Part of the engineering process was putting safety measures in place like a safety key (usually, a magnet with a clip to attach to your shirt) to pull, should something happen.
For example, if you’re working out and injure yourself, you can simply remove the safety key to wind down a machine quickly and safely in an emergency.
Purpose of the Treadmill
Some will have workout programs built into the system.
Some are intended solely for runners and walkers who want to get more steps into their days.
Depending on your exercise needs and wants, your storage space, and your price point, there are reasonable options that include folding treadmills and fitness treadmills.
Incline Levels
This is the number one feature for me.
Beyond getting steps in my day, the incline is just enough change to do a little more glute, hamstring, and cardiovascular system training.
Think about walking up a mountain, that is harder than walking down the block.
Incline options allow you to do both.
Inclines are beneficial to mix in to your workouts because they’ll target different muscle groups (i.e. back of your legs and booty) while upping the ante for cardio.
Get ready to get your heart pumping!
Workout Programs
The second most important feature in my opinion is the availability of cardio programs.
While some treadmills at these low price ranges won’t come with workouts preloaded on the machine, many will offer fitness apps with purchase.
So, you can tap into a variety of programs right from your phone or tablet device.
Especially if you are limited with the equipment at your house, you will want to be able to do a variety of movements and intensities with your treadmill.
RECOMMENDATION
I’d recommend finding one that you are comfortable walking, running, and doing some interval training on — like different inclines, speeds (walk to sprint), walking lunges, side shuffles, and more.
Treadmill Size and Compactness
A folding treadmill will obviously boast storage advantages.
Most can easily be stored in a closet after use.
As they stand vertically, they are a little over 5 feet tall.
All the products we cover here, fall into that folding treadmill category which is sublime for home use.
The residential treadmills are built to easily plug into a standard outlet and usually last seven to ten years with proper care.
Secondary Features
The right treadmill for you might also offer more advanced features, like:
- An LCD display screen,
- Bluetooth technology to sync with your fitness wearables for heart rate monitoring, or
- Workouts to keep you engaged in your cardio training.
Indoor Cardio
Treadmills are one good way for me to keep working out indoors, when the weather is not so good — or we are encouraged to stay 6 feet from others.
Despite the weather and the pandemic, there are other reasons to invest in a treadmill – One being, controlled cardio workouts.
Treadmills Help You Train Smart
If you are training for a specific goal, i.e.: a running race, a hike, to get more activity in your day (say “Hello” to my FitBit telling me I need to get more active and just “209 steps to win the hour”), or weight loss, it’s helpful to set specific goals for your treadmill cardio workout.
Treadmills let you control your speed and incline which keeps you honest and challenged.
I have often taken a walk outside and returned from said walk and thought, “Did my heart rate even get high enough for a real workout?”
Get Your Exercise In
With a treadmill, that worry diminishes.
Yes, there are still reasons to go for walks, runs, or other activities outside — like breathing fresh air and getting some sunlight and Vitamin D.
Let’s face it, we are all basically houseplants — get sun, water, and fresh air.
Nonetheless, treadmills take the guesswork out of workouts.
NOTE
If you want to be intentional with your daily activity and get your heart rate up from workouts through busy schedules, less-than-nice weather, or a global pandemic, a treadmill is for you!
Thoughts to Keep in Mind
As you continue to shop around, definitely take into account:
Your Space
Ask yourself, where do you want to “start” this thing? Will it fit in your living room, spare bedroom, garage or somewhere else? Measure the space for your unit and consider if it would be helpful to fold it up for storage.
Your Price Range:
If you just need something for extra steps in the day, maybe you don’t need to go even as high as $500 for a treadmill.
You just need something that works or walk outside if your neck of the woods is nice annually!
If you need more than just steps, does $400-$500 price range work for your budget or can you upgrade totally to a commercial treadmill?
Your Exercise Needs:
Get specific about your goals with your treadmill for home.
Do you want heart rate monitors and bluetooth connections for superior training and entertainment?
Do you need variability in incline to get your booty and hammies involved more?
Is the treadmill intended just to walk and get steps in or are you hoping to become an Olympic track athlete?
NOTE
Depending on how often and how fast you’ll be pounding the treadmill, you’ll want to upgrade as much as you can afford to. **See Your Price Range above**
Incline
If you are normally an outdoor runner, hiker, or walker, make sure there is enough of an incline grade to support training for that.
Usually, it’s recommended to train at a 2% incline as that resembles the grade of “flat” ground outside. Other than that, incline is a great way to challenge yourself and continue to improve your fitness!
Treadmill Life:
With good care, treadmills can last multiple years. Treat it well, so you can have nice things.
A Treadmill Mat
Definitely worth the purchase to protect your floors, especially if they are wood or laminate.
Once you define those parameters, make YOUR decision the best one for YOU.
Conclusion
Keeping the best features for you in mind, here’s a reminder of my top recommendations for the best treadmill under 500:
Top Pick:
Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill is the best all around treadmill with its approachable price point, tried and true user experience, and excellent features and quality.
Best Value:
Confidence Fitness Ultra Electric Treadmill is a tough price to beat.
Editor’s Choice:
ProForm Cadence WLT Folding Treadmill for the win with the iFit workouts, springy running deck, and reliable quality.
Thank you for reading!
Thanks for reading, I hope you found the best treadmill under 500 for you. If you want to connect further about treadmills, other equipment, and workouts, hit me up.
I’d love to keep chatting and hear what’s worked for YOU!
Let me know which treadmill you go with for your home gym and if there’s a workout program you are following. Let’s keep each other accountable ladies!
If you’re considering other workout equipment, why not take a look at this manual treadmill review or check out my other reviews for: ellipticals, vertical climbers, or upright exercise bikes. You may also be interested in this review of the best rowers under $500 if you’re on a limited budget.
In case you need gear for running, check out my running pants or running tights article.