Cheap is a relative term when it come to treadmills due to the fact that the amount of money you need to spend to get a model that is fit for purpose may not strike many people as being particularly affordable. Having said that, prices have come down significantly in the last decade so this great piece of home exercise equipment is now within the reach of far more people.

The price that you have to pay when you’re on the market for a treadmill will depend on what use you are going to put it to. Its not that many of the cheap treadmills at the lower end of the market are particularly bad machines, its just that they can only do they job they were intended to do. If you wan to run at speed for hours every day then these treadmills aren’t going to last very long at all.

The cheapest of the cheap on the market is the manual treadmill which requires you to push the belt with your own power in contrast to the more popular motorized version which uses an electrical motor. The only advantage of a manual treadmill is its price, you can pick them up new for a little over $100 or probably get a second hand one for free off a friend who bought it and realized how bad it was.

Problems With Manual Treadmills

- Given that you have to move the belt with your own steam it can be a struggle to get your workout started although hopefully as it gets used it will start to loosen up.

- The effort to keep the belt moving may tire you so quickly that you don’t much in the way of a meaning full workout.

Forget Manual And Go For A Motorized Treadmill

Save yourself the hassle of buying a manual model just to find out its no good. Better to save up a little longer and get a motorized treadmill which you will be happy with and which will provide the fitness benefits that you are looking for.

The Merit 725T Treadmill

A nice entry level motorized treadmill which you can pick up for under $400 is this Merit 725T. Keep in mind that as with anything you get what you pay for but if you are looking for an introduction to the world of indoor running then you could certainly do a lot worse than take a closer look here.

Many discount treadmills aren’t really up to the job for people who wan tot run and are more suitable for use at walking speed but this machine will have no problems for those who want to run at up to 10 miles per hour. Even if you happen to weight well over 200lbs this machine will cope without any worries thinks to its surprisingly durable build quality at this price point.

With a lifetime warranty on the frame, 2 years on the motor and the fact that this is built by one of the largest manufacturers of fitness equipment in the world you can be sure that it isn’t going to fall apart the minute you start doing a serious workout. Certainly, for a beginner there isn’t much better at this price point and if you are just starting out you won’t be able to tell the difference between this and many models further up the range.

The only disadvantage that I want to bring up with the Merit 725T are that you will have to assemble it yourself on delivery which although most people don’t a problem with, some users report difficulty with the construction process. Also worth mentioning is the noise produced by this cheap treadmill when its in use but for such a low price its hard to hold such a minor factor against it.

Horizon Fitness T91 Treadmill

Get a little bit more money together and you can take a step up in quality and get a Horizon Fitness T91 Treadmill for an experience which will more closely match what you would expect from a machine in the gym. You get a lot for your money these days in a $600 treadmill and the Horizon delivers much more than we could realistically expect for this amount of cash. You get a super tough 2.0-horsepower continuous-duty motor which comes with a lifetime guarantee, you can’t ask for much more than that.

Like the Merit, this machine is great for beginners but its also has the ability to please those with more experience using treadmills so if you have had a gym membership in the past but want to buy something for use at home this could be the one for you.

You get the capability to walk or run from 0.5 to 10 mph an incline of up to 10% and the ComfortZone air cell system to make running more comfortable and easier on your joints. Also part of the Horizon is a control console with back lit LCD screen that offers feedback on your workout, contact heart rate grips, and a 20-by-50-inch running area.

Sole F80 Specifications

• Commercial quality 3.0 horsepower motor
• 7.5-inch LCD display, integrated speakers and audio cable
• 6 standard workouts, 2 custom workouts, and 2 HR-controlled workouts
• Space efficient easy fold design
• Cushion Flex shock-absorption system
• 350-pound capacity
• Size: 33 x 80 inches
• Weight: 250 pounds
• Max speed: 11 mph
• Running area: 20 by 60 inches
• Up to 15 percent incline
• Cooling fans
• Lifetime warranty on motor, deck, and frame
• 5 year warranty on electronics, belt, rollers
• 2 year warranty on labor

As you can see above this is a home treadmill with a tremendous spec list, indeed you would be hard pushed to find a running machine for the home which provides you with more. The massive 3 horsepower commercial motor and huge running area means this machine can be used by even the largest of home exercisers, and those of average size will be amazed at the amount of room they have.

Other things about the Sole F80 which make it stand out from the crowd include it’s high maximum speed of 11 miles per hour and the ability to incline up to 15 percent. This is an exercise treadmill which will allow you to get the most intense workout possible when it comes to running indoors.

That’s not to mention the nice little extras such as the beautiful 7.5 inch display, cooling fans and variety of exercise programs to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. It also has an ingenious folding system which allows you to reduce the amount of floor space it takes up to an absolute minimum when it’s not in use.

What we like the most about this Sole treadmill

1. It’s long spec list puts it in a league of it’s own compared to most other home treadmills
2. Large running area and rock solid build quality make it a joy to exercise on this machine
3. Cushioned running surface makes it a pleasure to use for long sessions, and saves your joints from damage
4. Super easy to fold up when you have finished your exercise session

What could be better about the Sole F80

1. The cup holder could be in a more convenient position
2. Controls could be easier to use
3. Like most treadmills the speakers are of a low quality and better left unused
4. This is a very heavy treadmill due to it’s superior build quality. You will probably need help to get it to it’s final resting place
5. Speed changes don’t happen instantly like they do on expensive commercial machines

Conclusion

If you are used to training in the gym and want to buy a treadmill which is of a comparable quality then the Sole F80 could be the machine for you. Although it’s not quite up there with the best commercial treadmills, it isn’t far off it and certainly a cut above such rivals such as the LifeSpan 1200 folding treadmill. Set one of these up in your home and you will be the envy of all your running friends. Now all you have to do is find $1000 and this fine electric treadmill can be yours.

1. LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
2. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill Review
3. Merit 725T Plus Treadmill Review
4. Confidence Power Plus Treadmill Review

• 2.25 horsepower Motor
• A space saving design which allows you to fold treadmill vertically
• iFit workout
• ProShox cushioning
• iPod compatible audio
• ProShox Cushioning
• Quick Incline 0-10%
• iFit WIFI Compatible
• iPod Compatible Audio
• Can support users of up to 300 pounds
• 20- by 50-inch treadmill belt

The Proform is an incredibly high-tech running machine for the money you spend on it, In fact you would be hard pushed ot find a treadmill in a commercial gym which is as much fun to use. Of course there are other things to take into consideration before you buy so let’s take a look at whether the Proform is the sort of device you should be spending you hard earned cash on.

What we like about the Proform 505 Treadmill:

1. It’s absolutely packed with features and is compatible with iFit Live Technology for workouts powered by Google Maps, Training routines with Jillian Michaels, Incline controls, and much more
2. An incredible 25-year motor warranty
3. ProShox Lite 3 Cushioning gives protection for your joints against the rigors of regular running
4. Can be folded vertically to make it easy to clear your precious floor space when it’s not in use
5. Large treadmill belt means you will have plenty of room to move about no matter how tall you are
6. Change the speed of the belt instantly with the touch of a button
7. This is a very solid running machine for the money

What we don’t like so much about this Proform Treadmill?

1. It’s more difficult to assemble than many of the less high-tech treadmills on the market. You might want to pay someone to build it for you.
2. Like on so many other cheap treadmills the heart rate monitor is ineffective
3. Calorie counter is somewhat inaccurate
4. Ifit functionality costs extra
5. Cup holders are an odd shape and size

Conclusion

Proform treadmills in general have a good reputation with consumers and looking at this machine it’s easy to see why. You really get a lot for your money with the 505 and anyone who is looking to spend somewhere in the region of $500 to $800 should put this one near the top of the list. We especially love all the extra features it packs into it’s frame and the size of the running area makes this a very comfortable piece of exercise equipment to use for long periods.

If you would like to do more research on the home treadmills available online take a look at the following pages:

1. LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
2. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill Review
3. Merit 725T Plus Treadmill Review
4. Confidence Power Plus Treadmill Review
5. Sole F80 Treadmill Review

The Confidence Power Plus is an extremely simple treadmill, as you would expect for a machine you can pick up for under $300. It looks a lot like a manual treadmill with it’s relatively small belt and minimalist construction. Compared it to a treadmill costing twice the price and you will realize this model looks flimsy in comparison. That’s not to say this is a running machine which isn’t worth considering if you are on a tight budget.

Confidence Power Plus Specifications

• Running area: 38.5″ x 14″
• Full size of machine: 49″ x 24″ x 11″
• Weight: 53lbs
• Motor power: 600 Watts (equal to about 0.8 horsepower)
• Folding treadmill design

As you can see if you compare the Power Plus treadmill to any machine at a higher price point this one has a lower spec in all areas. The treadmill belt is smaller, the power rating is much lower and it is very light in comparison. Let’s take a look at the positives and negatives of this product to see if you should still consider purchasing it for your home workouts.

Advantages of the Confidence treadmill:

1. It’s extremely light for a home treadmill and also folds to a small size making it great for people with a limited about of space who need to store it out of the way when it’s not in use.
2. The low power motor means it’s going to use far less electricity than the top rated treadmills
3. For a budget treadmill this model runs surprisingly quietly
4. This device is delivered almost fully constructed which means there is very little to do before you can start running
5. Max speed of 10 MPH is about as fast as most home runners will need

Disadvantages of the Confidence treadmill:

1. There is no possibility to run on an incline with this device so if you like higher intensity workouts you will need to look elsewhere
2. The size of the running area makes this treadmill too small for people who are much over 6′ tall
3. It doesn’t have the fitness programs you find on most other machines which make your workouts more fun.
4. This treadmill shuts off automatically after 30 minutes, although you can just start it up again if you like

Conclusion

There are plenty of treadmills out there which are a lot better than the Confidence but for indoor runners on a budget this machine is hard to beat. Although it doesn’t have the solid construction of higher priced models it does what most people need from a treadmill, allowing you to get the exercise you need without having to go outdoors.

If you are looking for something which will allow you to run in your bedroom when you can’t find the time to get out on the road then this might just be the right buy for you. If, on the other hand, you want to set up an fitness studio in your own home then you will want to invest in a more expensive treadmill which is closer to the quality you would get in a commercial fitness center.

If you are looking to spend a more money on the best treadmill possible then have a look at the following pages:

1. LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
2. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill Review
3. Merit 725T Plus Treadmill Review

It’s hard to believe you can pick up a home treadmill at this price but you do have to make some sacrifices to do so. For starters this manual treadmill runs on the power provided by the runner themselves, rather than using an electrical motor to do the work for you.

Make no mistakes about it, the Stamina InMotion treadmill is as basic as it gets and it’s not a device that’s going to suit everyone. If you are used to training at a commercial gym and have been spoiled by the top end treadmills they have on offer then you find it hard to get used to a manual running machine that comes without any bells and whistles.

Let’s take a look at the specifications of this cheap treadmill:

• Size of the running area: 41 x 12 3/8 inches
• Overall dimensions: 47 by 22 by 45 inches (L x W x H)
• Size when folded for storage: 17 x 22 inches
• Maximum user weight: 225 pounds
• One-year frame warranty
• 90-day parts warranty

As you can see, if you have compared this unit to some of the others I have reviewed, it has a small running belt which makes it quite a tight area to exercise on. This might not be too much of a problem if you have a small body, and most people will be able to get used to it over time.

What’s good about this discount treadmill?

• It’s very easy to put together so you will be exercising in no time at all when it is delivered
• Because it is much lighter then an electrical treadmill, folds up easily, and comes on wheels, you will find it very easy to move this unit around your house when needed
• It folds up smaller then many of the electric models so it’s possible to store it out of the way when not in use
• Can be set at an incline to increase the intensity of your workouts
• Because it’s manual you don’t need to have an electrical supply available to use it
• It has a battery-powered monitor which tracks distance, workout time, speed and calories burned

Is there anything negative we can say about this Stamina treadmill?

• The aforementioned small running area is going to feel quite cramped to runners used to exercising on a commercial treadmill at the gym
• The fact that it’s a manual treadmill means it’s never going to be as pleasurable to use as a high quality electric model

Conclusion

Manual treadmills are not to everyone’s taste and are generally only purchased by those of us who don’t have a fortune to spend on our home exercising equipment. This Stamina manual treadmill is as cheap as you are ever going to find a treadmill, and for the price charged is does a perfectly good job of allowing you to run indoors whenever you want.

If you are looking to spend a bit more cash on the best treadmill you can afford then take a look at the following pages:

1. LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
2. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill Review
3. Merit 725T Plus Treadmill Review
4. Confidence Power Plus Motorized Treadmill Review

How cheap does a treadmill have to be to be considered cheap? It’s a tough question but I guess it all comes down to how much money you have to spend to improve your fitness, and how serious you are about reaching your goals.

In this review I’m going to take a look at the LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill which has a retail price of $1500, but can be picked up online for under $1000 if you know where to look. I’ll leave it up to you to decide if this is an amount of cash you are willing to spend on a running machine.

What do the product specs of the LifeSpan 1200 look like?

• 2.5-horsepower motor
• 20-by-56-inch running area
• Supports runners of up to 300 pounds thanks to it’s bio-mechanically correct suspension system
• High-tech LCD display for tracking time, calories burnt, distance, speed, and many other statistics which you exercise
• Offers a wide range of programs which will suit you whether you want to lose weight, train for sports, or generally improve your health
• An EZ folding system makes it simple to store when not in use
• A lifetime warranty on the frame and motor protect you in case it breaks down

There is absolutely no doubt you are getting a top quality treadmill if you are willing to shell out a grand for this LifeSpan Treadmill. It has won several awards in the industry over the last year including “Best Buy” and “Best in Class” Awards from the likes of Treadmill Doctor and Fitness Professor. The only problem some people will have is trying to decide whether they want to spend as much cash when there are cheaper options available.

Let’s take a look at some of the factors which set this running machine apart from some of the others you can find for sale on Amazon:

• EZ fold system means it’s a snap to fold and unfold this treadmill if space is limited at home and you have to store it out of sight when not in use. Most of the budget treadmills you find for a few hundred dollars might claim to be folding, but the majority of them make it hard to do so and don’t fold up as small as is usually needed.
• This treadmill is built as solid as a rock compared every cheaper unit I have ever tried
• The treadmill runs very quietly which makes it a pleasure to exercise on for long periods. This also means you can easily watch TV or listen to music while running.
• Extremely easy to get started thanks to the fact that it comes almost fully assembled
• A vast array of programming options make for more interesting exercising routines, including the ability to store all your past sessions
• The LCD console is a joy to behold compared to more economical machines being very easy to read and showing all relevant information.

The only negatives regarding this LifeSpan treadmill are as follows:

• The built-in heart monitor is not as accurate as it could be. Better to buy a stand-alone product such as the Polar heart rate wrist monitor if this is a feature which is important to you.
• These treadmills don’t have a built in fan, which some runners consider to be an essential feature.
• There have been some concerns about the quality of the plastic hood which covers the treadmill motor, but most consumers have had no problems with it.

Conclusion

If you have around $1000 to spend and have set you mind on a treadmill for exercising at home then you would find it very hard to do better than this model. It offers exceptional build quality for the money, and last you many years of regular tough workout sessions.

If you are looking to spend less cash on a treadmill for the home then check out the following pages:

1. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill Review
2. Merit 725T Plus Treadmill Review
3. Confidence Power Plus Motorized Treadmill Review

Let’s take a look at the exact specifications you get for your money:

• Motor power: 2.25 HP
• Speed range: Up to 10 MPH
• Incline: Up to 10 percent
• Belt size: 20 x 55 inches
• Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
• Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 1-year parts and labor
• Built-in fan and iPod speakers

The Horizon’s motor power of 2.25 mph isn’t ground breaking by any standards and is similar to many of the budget treadmills on the market. There are other things about it’s spec though which set it apart from much of the field. The ability to run at a speed of up to 10 miles per hour is a lot better than much of the competition, and the 10 percent incline is certain to add intensity to your workouts. Another positive about this model is the large belt size which provides you with a bigger running area, making for a more comfortable exercise session. You should also note the manufacturer includes a generous 1 year parts and labor warranty in case anything should go wrong with it.

What’s good about this Horizon Treadmill?

1. Lifetime warranty on the frame and motor – Buying expensive electrical equipment takes enough of your hard earned cash without you having to worry about paying a fortune for repairs when things go wrong
2. Performs superbly for a treadmill in this price category – A smooth and silent motor means this running machine is a joy to use from the moment you get it set up

Great build quality means this top rated treadmill is perfect for those who intend to be one this piece on equipment at every available opportunity.

3. For a high tech piece of a equipment this running machine is surprisingly easy to assemble.

Other things to consider before you buy this Horizon Fitness Treadmill

1. This product is a bit of beast and you are probably going to have to have someone else around when it arrives to help you put it together.
2. You need to take care when assembling this treadmill to ensure you don’t cross thread the bolts which would prevent you from being able to complete the process
3. Regular maintenance (oiling the treadmill belt) will be required to keep it running optimally.

If you want to spend under $700 on a cheap treadmill then look no further, you have found the perfect model for your needs. The Horizon T101 offers a quit motor running on a spacious belt to give the home fitness enthusiast an enjoyable workout which will ensure anyone who buys this device will use it at any possible opportunity. The build quality is excellent too which means there is little chance you will have to make use of the generous manufacturer’s warranty.

Editor’s Note: Like I mentioned in my Merit 750T Review, in many respects you get what you pay for when it comes to treadmill shopping. For a gym quality running machine you are going to have to spend more than a few hundred dollars but that doesn’t mean you can get a well build unit which will work wonders for your fitness at a fraction of a cost of the top treadmills on the market.

Click Here to check for the lowest price for the Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill from Amazon.com

Thankfully it’s not just the discount price that draws consumers to this product though, the many great reviews it has received from past users makes it very attractive to those who like to do their research before handing over their credit card details to the Online stores. Let’s take a look at the things which makes this Merit home treadmill one to consider.

Specifications of the Merit 725 Treadmill

• 2.25 horsepower motor
• Running area: 18 x 45 inches
• Incline: Up to 10 percent
• Maximum weight: 250 pounds
• Size when folded for storage: 31 by 53 by 34 inches
• Size when in use: 31 by 52 by 71 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime on frame, 2 years on motor, 90 days on parts and labor

Why is the this Merit exercise treadmill so popular?

1. Build quality is exceptional for the price of the machine

   Merit are a company which is well known in the industry and live up to their reputation by producing only top rated products. The 725T is no exception and exceeds the expectations of the consumer when it comes to quality of construction. The materials used to make this running machine are a cut above much of the competition at the lower price point.

2. Quite and smooth operation

   Many cheap treadmills are built using an inferior motor which doesn’t have the power to move the treadmill belt in a smooth motion. This makes using it an unpleasant experience for the runner. Many also have the tendency to be rather loud when operating which can make them annoying for the other people who live in the building when it is operational. The Merit, while not up to the standards of the top treadmills, holds it’s own by giving the user a reasonably smooth running experience with no excessive noise.

3. Reasonably quick to set up

   When it is delivered to your home there isn’t too much assembling to be done to get started. Most people manage to get it ready for action in about half an hour.

4. Handles plenty of weight

   Even if you are close to the maximum weight this cheap treadmill can carry (250 pounds) you will find that it operates perfectly.

Things you might not like so much about this Merit Running Machine

1. The machine doesn’t fold away as small as some of you would like. If you are looking for a treadmill you can quickly fold up and slide under the bed then you might want to look somewhere else.
2. The safety strap is very easy to trip due to the way it is attached to the body. This shouldn’t be too much of a problem except for the fact when it happens the machine completely resets the treadmill program you are using so that you have to start again.
3. Some users have found that it’s not as easy to assemble as they would have liked thanks to the slightly unclear instructions and less than perfect machining of parts. If you’re not handy with a screwdriver then you might want to have a friend help you get the Merit constructed for use.

Make no mistake about it, the Merit is not a top-of-the-line treadmill so don’t expect it to work like one of those extremely expensive treadmills you’ve used at the local fitness center. If you are looking for one like that then you are going to have to spend a lot more than $400 to set up your home aerobics studio. However, if you are on a budget and are simply looking for a product that will do the job required then the Merit 725 is worthy of your attention. For those looking to exercise a few times a week without leaving the home it would be hard to find better value on the market today.

Click Here to check for the lowest price for the Merit 725T Plus from Amazon.com

If you want to spend a little bit more and pick up an even better quality cheap running machine then check out my Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill Review.

Integrated TV

Music

Many treadmills now have iPod support. You can plug your iPod into some treadmills and browse through your music library straight from the treadmill screen. Some treadmills even allow you a way to watch videos stored on your iPod through treadmill screen.

Safety features

Heart Rate monitor

iPod treadmill

If you don’t have the space for a home treadmill, or if you like to run outside instead, you may want to check out some of the exercise apps for the iPod and iPhone. iTreadmill is designed to be a virtual treadmill for your iPod.

At the end of the day a new treadmill may be the next thing that will get you into shape. Some people need that extra thing that motivates them to work out. This may be TV or MP3 player support. The best manual treadmill for you is probably going to be the one that you will use the most while remaining cheap.

Whether you’re looking for a basic manual treadmill or a tricked-out electric model, you’ll appreciate the affordability of Weslo treadmills. One Weslo treadmill review after another mentions that this brand of treadmill is affordable, thus making it a perfect machine for your home gym, especially for the budget-conscious. Prices start at $249 for electric models and $99 for manual ones. The higher end treadmills reach as high as $700 or more but they are equipped with more workout options, more exercise programs, stronger motors, and a better cushioning system. Still, the price of a Weslo treadmill is inexpensive compared to other brands with comparable features.

The popularity of Weslo treadmills has made them a permanent fixture in fitness clubs, gyms, and homes across America. The motorized models are the most affordable on the market. While not made for the purpose of expert training and competitive running, Weslo’s low-end entry treadmill is a sensible option for power walkers and fitness enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Weslo G30 treadmill is an advanced machine that is also suitable for beginners. It is a low-impact treadmill that has a variety of incline positions and a number of programs including a 10k step program.

Another model worth mentioning is the Weslo Cadence treadmill. It comes in four varieties: the C22, the 255 DR, the 340 CS, and the C78. Prices range from $199 to $699. The 340 CS is specifically designed for jogging and walking, the C22 for walking, and the C78 for running.

Weslo treadmills help monitor a person’s fitness accomplishments, which include the calories burned and speed. The manual incline version is equipped with four different levels of incline, and helps individuals increase their heart rates in stages while at the same time providing for a more comfortable workout.

What makes Weslo treadmills the best brand for home gyms is that they are light. They also have large LCD displays and adjustable inclines. They are constructed with smaller belts and deck areas but are equipped with as much power as most expensive and high end brands provide.