The best foldable treadmill
LSG Quiet EverDrive electric treadmill, $649, Amazon
The LSG Quiet EverDrive is user-friendly with 12 preset training programs, ShockControl cushioning for your joints, a LCD display tracking your stats, and a max speed of 14km/hr. It's foldable which makes it easy to store when not in use, has three levels of manual incline and features a quiet H2 motor. This treadmill is what you call a smooth operator.
"This product has exceeded my expectations," wrote one happy five star-reviewer, "It is solid and sturdy and is easy to operate and provides a variety of exercise levels to choose from".
The best budget treadmill
PROFLEX TRX1 electric treadmill, $319 (usually $899), Mytopia
If you're after all the bells and whistles of a premium machine but without the premium price tag... the Proflex TRX1 Elite is probably worth considering. Featuring a maxi-grip running belt, pulse sensors, 12 training programs, a digital LCD display, 1.5CHP powerdrive and more, you'll soon be smashing your old PBs right out of the park.
"I have to say this exceeded all expectations," wrote a customer who gave five stars, "for the price this certainly does the job and is compact enough for apartment living..."
The best incline treadmill
Endurance SPT treadmill, $1299, Amazon
The Endurance SPT is the bestselling treadmill on Amazon and not without reason. Versatile and somewhat affordably priced, this model includes everything one could want for their cardio session, featuring: rubber cushioning shock absorption, 16 incline levels, speeds up to 20km/hr and workout programs. Plus, with pulse sensors, USB charger, dual speakers, a tablet holder, you're also sorted in the entertainment department.
"This treadmill packs in the features and for the price you will not get any better," wrote a five star reviewer, "it is very sturdy and surprisingly quiet".
The best treadmill for walking
FitSmart FX2000 foldable electric treadmill, $429.95 (usually $999), Myer
If you're looking for something more leisurely paced, why not give a walking treadmill a whirl? With a maximum speed of 6km/hr, this machine is designed for walking and could be used under a standing desk - meaning you can hit your daily step count while working from home. It features a LCD display that tracks statistics, a mobile phone holder and also comes with a remote control. The only downside to this model is that it is only capable of holding up to 120kg.
"100 per cent recommend if you’re looking for a compact treadmill. Fits under my not-so-tall bed. No issues so far," wrote a reviewer who gave five stars.
The best treadmill for beginners
Lifespan Fitness Apex treadmill, $1499, Catch.com.au
Compact and easily folded, this treadmill will be a great asset to your makeshift gym. With speeds up to 18km/hr, a grippy belt, bluetooth connectivity, 24 preset workout programs and ShockControl cushioning, you can tailor your at-home cardio session to your own comfort.
"Great treadmill. Definitely worth the money. Great for running. Would recommend," wrote a five star reviewer.
The best treadmill with screen
Proform Pro 9000 PF21 treadmill, $3999, Rebel Sport
When it comes to luxe treadmills, the Proform Pro 9000 PF21 is pretty up there. In addition to the standard electric treadmill features, this model includes a swipeable HD display controlling your music, an inbuilt fan to keep you cool and ReboundPro cushioning to support you joints. Talk about running in luxury.
"Recommend to spend a little extra and get this one if you can," one reviewer who gave five stars wrote, "Wide and longer belt is good for long strides. Good cushions to reduce impact on knees".
The best treadmill for rehabilitation
Lifespan Fitness TMREFORMER treadmill, $1217, Appliances Online
Designed with the elderly and those undergoing rehabilitation in mind, the Lifespan Fitness TMREFORMER is equipped with extended handles that have control buttons. With 12 incline levels, speeds up to 14km/hr, ShockControl suspension and an anti-static and noise-reducing running belt, completely a safe and secure workout is made possible.
"This has been perfect to build up my leg strength after torn ligament in my left leg," wrote a five star reviewer, "feels much safer than a conventional treadmill".
What treadmill features are important to look out for?
Before investing in a treadmill for the home, Russell notes it is important to consider features in a model that'll assist with your fitness goals - as well as asking yourself when and how you'll be using the machine.
INCLINE AND DECLINE
"This is the ability for the machine to rise and give you the impression of walking or running up or down a hill. It is great for training calves, thighs and glutes."
WIFI
"Some machines have WiFi compatibility meaning you are able to connect your smartphone to your machine. You can then follow along a workout on your phone or stream your favourite music or TV shows. Having this compatibility is great to keep you engaged during your workout."
HEART RATE MONITOR
"Having a heart rate monitor built into your treadmill is especially useful if you are using the machine for rehabilitation or weight loss. The heart rate monitor gives you real time updates on your heart's health and alerts you to safe zones, whilst also highlighting intensity levels during training."
BLUETOOTH
"Having bluetooth connectivity allows you to stay connected throughout your workout. This is an important feature if you are squeezing in your workout during a break at work or on call. These machines usually have a charging port as well making it easy for you to charge your phone and stream music."
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