Best Treadmills For Seniors 2022

Treadmills are a great low impact option for seniors to stay active without putting their bodies at risk. Walking on a treadmill, even just 10 minutes per day, can have significant health benefits and can reduce the risk of early death.

So, if you’re looking for the best treadmill for seniors, this article is for you.

The market is flooded with hundreds of treadmills but not all of them are suitable for seniors. Many seniors prefer a treadmill with a wider non-slippery belt, long handrails, and lower speeds to minimize the risk of injury. Therefore, we’ve done some great research and put together a list of the best treadmills for seniors, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

10 Best Treadmills For Seniors

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7857 – Best Walking Treadmill for Seniors

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7857 is a walking treadmill that has been designed with seniors in mind.

It is a low profile treadmill with a height of just 2″ above the floor and has a 20″ wide running surface. So it is easier for seniors to get on the treadmill and walk or run on it without having to lift their feet high and squeeze. This can help prevent injuries in the elderly.

The cushioned deck and shock absorption technology make it ideal for those who want to avoid knee injury.

The multi grip handrails are placed along the treadmill’s top, middle, and sides for added support. Foam padding on the handlebars makes it easier for seniors to grip them without any slip.

If that is not enough, this treadmill has an emergency stop clip that can be used to halt the treadmill if necessary.

All of the above mentioned safety features make it the best treadmill for 60 to 75-year-old men or women.

The digital display tracks all of your progress so you can see your progress over time.

With a maximum weight capacity of 295 lbs, this treadmill can accommodate almost anyone.

Pros:

• Cushioned deck
• Max speed 5mph
• Low profile deck
• Multi grip handrails on top, sides and middle
• Weight Capacity 295lb
• Digital display tracks all of your progress

Cons:

• Assembly can be difficult
• No incline

2. Exerpeutic TF900 – Best Walking Treadmill For Overweight Seniors

I was a bit skeptical at first when I saw the Exerpeutic TF900 but then realized that it is a great choice for seniors who want a safe and effective way to walk at home without having to worry about safety.

It has a wide range of features that make it perfect for older adults, including handlebars, low motor speed, large display screen, and an easy-to-use control panel.

The 18″ extra long handlebars make it easier for seniors to stay balanced while walking or running. The handlebars also provide a more comfortable grip and support, which is important for those who may be overweight or have joint pain.

The speed control buttons are within easy reach on the right handlebar, making it super comfortable to adjust your speed while you walk.

This walking treadmill has a 1.5 HP motor that moves the 36″L x 16″W belt at a max speed of 4 MPH speed. It also features a cushioning system to prevent seniors from experiencing shocks or impacts on their knees.

The TF900 treadmill has a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds, making it a good choice for those who are heavier than average.

It also includes an LCD display that tracks your time, distance, calories burned, and speed, so you can easily monitor your progress.

TF900 treadmill folds up for space-saving storage, and it moves easily on built-in wheels.

Pros:

• Weight Capacity 350 lb
• Cushioning system
• 18″ extra long handlebars

Cons:

• No Safety key

3. HURTRD18 – Bests Treadmill for Seniors with Safety Key

With its safety key feature and comfortable handlebars, it’s perfect for senior who wants a walking treadmill that is safe and reliable.

The safety key on the HURTRD18 is designed to be attached to the treadmill from one end and clip on the clothes of the senior. If there is an emergency and the user needs to quickly get off the treadmill, they can pull on the key to turn off the treadmill. This prevents them from being injured or worse if they need to stop suddenly.

The handrails on the HURTRD18 provide support for seniors. They can help to prevent falls and provide a place to grip the treadmill if needed.

The HURTRD18 has a maximum weight capacity of 275 pounds and a speed range of 0.6-6 MPH. It also includes an LCD display that tracks your time, distance, calories burned, and speed.

The HURTRD18 comes with a hydraulic soft drop system that folds it up for easy storage.

It also features a built-in book/magazine tray and cup holder.

Pros:

• Weight capacity 275lb
• Easy foldable
• Safety key feature
• Handrails

Cons:

• No shock absorption system.

4. Fitness Reality TR1000 – Best Manual Treadmill for Seniors

Fitness Reality TR1000 is a budget-friendly manual treadmill for seniors. The seniors don’t have to worry about their safety since the treadmill has long bars/handles to maintain the balance so they can walk with confidence.

Featuring a sturdy steel frame with a powder-coated finish, the treadmill is guaranteed to last a long time. With adjustable incline options, you can adjust the treadmill levels from 6 to 10 degrees. This allows you to add resistance to your workout session and increase your muscle. 

You can see statistics like calories burned, distance walked and speed displayed on the LCD monitor as you track your workout progress. Since it’s a manual treadmill, it’s one of the affordable models you can get.

It’s one of the lightest models that weigh around 49 pounds. The treadmill has a foldable frame and transportation wheels that make it easier to move and store the machine.

Overall, this treadmill is a good choice for those searching for a budget-friendly, lightweight, and foldable treadmill with basic features.

Pros:

• Good value for money
• Long handles 
• Foldable design

Cons:

• Manual
• Belt size is comparatively smaller
• No cushioning or shock absorption system
• Low user weight capacity of 230 pounds.

5. EXERPEUTIC TF2000 – Best Recovery Treadmill for Seniors

EXERPEUTIC TF2000 is a low profile treadmill with just 5″ deck height which is super easy for seniors to step on and off the treadmill. This machine is perfect for people who want to stay active and healthy but may need a little extra help.

The 49” full-length handrails with foam padding provide a safe and easy way to walk on the treadmill. The handrails help you stay stable, and the foam padding makes it easier to grip the treadmill.

The heart rate monitoring system keeps you in your target heart rate zone for maximum results. This machine also has a large LCD display that shows time, distance, calories burned, speed, and heart rate.

The Treadmill belt size is 50″ L x 16″ w and has a 300 lbs. User weight capacity.

There are 10 shock-absorbing deck cushions with extra reinforcement for reducing joint impact while walking.

Pros:

• Best shock absorption system
• Full length handrails for safety
• 300 lbs weight capacity

Cons:

• Not foldable

6. ProGear HCXL 4000 – Best Treadmill for 60 Years Old

An electric treadmill that is perfect for both walking and jogging. HCXL 4000 is a rock-solid and stable treadmill for seniors. Hence ProGear HCXL 4000 qualifies as the best treadmill for 60 years old. What’s impressive is the fact that it can easily support a maximum weight of up to 400 lbs. So seniors who are overweight won’t face any issues with the machine. 

Not every fitness machine is designed to be safe but the ProGear HCXL 4000 comes with extra long handrails padded with foam that ensures the user’s safety and comfort. In addition to that, you’ll come across heart rate sensors to measure your pulse rate. The 40” x 20’’ inches treadmill belt gives enough space for seniors to walk. 

ProGear HCXL 4000 has shock absorbers to reduce any impact on the joints to minimize injuries. To stop the treadmill, there is an emergency button that will immediately stop the treadmill. There are 2 incline adjustments to step up your workout game. It’s a motorized treadmill that will help you to burn your stubborn fat and keep your body in shape. The treadmill can easily be folded and transported with ease.

All in all, the treadmill meets the needs of overweight senior users who want a heavy-duty treadmill that has a maximum weight capacity to accommodate any type of user. The assembling is easy and the treadmill is built to last long.

Pros:

• High user weight capacity
• Equipped with heart rate sensors
• Noise-free motor

Cons:

• Average customer service

7. Exerpeutic TF1000 Treadmill – Best Heavy Duty Treadmill for Seniors

The Exerpeutic TF1000 is another best treadmill for older people that has long safety handles. The shock absorption system ensures that your joints remain protected from impact. It is one of few treadmills that supports a weight capacity of up to 400 lbs. 

The wide belt of the machine measures 40” L x 20” W which means that the seniors have ample amount of space to move and it’s completely secure. The treadmill has a motor that works on Quite a drive technology which ensures noise-free operation. The LCD console shows the speed, time and calories burned. 

You’ll find the heart pulse pads that target the heart rate. Moreover, the speed buttons let you adjust the speed. The 18” safety handles are extra long and give you great security. Apart from that, the machine has 2 incline options to support the weight. The foldable design of the machine makes it easier to store and transport from one place to another. Moreover, the machine has a safety key that protects the senior users from slipping. 

Speaking of the warranty, the machine covers 5 years warranty on parts and labor and 10 years on motor and frame. In short, the machine is undoubtedly a great fitness machine that burns calories, has a shock absorption system, and supports maximum weight capacity. 

Pros:

• Has a wide belt
• Foldable design 
• Has transportation wheels

Cons:

• Needs frequent lubrication

8. Nautilus T616 – Best Spacious Treadmill for Senior

It’s easy for a senior to lose their balance footing and accidentally step on the side of narrow belts or walk right off the back of a treadmill while workout. But Nautilus T616 Treadmill comes with safety handrails and a 20” x 60” belt provides ample space for workouts and decreases the risk of falling.

The treadmill is equipped with a StrikeZone Cushioning system to minimize joint impacts. The handrails have incline buttons, heartbeat sensors, USB ports, and headphones. The SoftDrop folding system allows you to easily fold and store the machine with ease. 

Aside from that, it can support a user’s weight capacity of up to 300 lbs. The machine is lightweight and compact that has transportation wheels. The console has incline and speed keys so you can easily control the machine. You can enjoy speeds from 0-12 mph. You can have access to 26 workout programs and connect via Bluetooth to transfer workout data easily. 

The machine comes with 10 years frame and motor warranty and 3 years on electric parts. 

In conclusion, the Nautilus T610 treadmill is a rock-solid machine that can easily accommodate heavy users up to 300 lbs. 

Pros:

• Sturdy build
• Quiet in operation
• Different workout programs

Cons:

• It’s super heavy

9. XTERRA Fitness TR150 – Best Space Saving Treadmill for Seniors

If you’re searching for the best space saving treadmill for seniors, look no further than XTERRA Fitness TR150. You can power up the treadmill at speeds ranging from 0-10 MPH using a 2.25 HP motor.  The treadmill can easily be stored and transported – thanks to the 108 lbs wheel frame. Don’t underestimate the size of the machine because it comes with impressive features that meet the senior’s requirements. 

The treadmill is powered by a cushioning system that makes use of 3 shock absorption elements. It reduces up to 20% impact, resulting in a smooth ride. The XTERRA Fitness TR150 has a durable frame and it can support the maximum user capacity of up to 250 lbs. The folding design of the treadmill makes it easier to store wherever you wish to. 

The treadmill has a manual inclination system having three incline increments: 0.5, 1, and 2 degrees. However, you can’t adjust the incline while you’re performing the workout. The treadmill offers several workout programs. When you choose a particular exercise, the speed of the treadmill is adjusted according to the program you’ve chosen. Since it comes with a low-power motor, power consumption is low and the motor doesn’t generate noise. 

The treadmill is easy to set up since the deck is already assembled. Moreover, The console buttons are easy to use. You can use the stop button to pause the workout. Apart from that, make sure you lubricate the belt after using it for more than 40 hours. 

Generally speaking, the treadmill comes with decent features that can step up the workout game of the seniors. With a compact and durable design, optimal speed range, and manual incline system, you’re getting a budget-friendly treadmill at a great price. 

Pros:

• Strong build
• Consumes low power
• Built-in workout programs

Cons:

• Has a low user weight capacity

10. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M – Best Budget Treadmill for Seniors

A treadmill that is aimed at senior users who want to use it for walking. The SF-T1407M treadmill is the best lightweight treadmill for seniors available in the store. It’s a manual treadmill that is designed to be compact which means you can save space.

You do not have to be concerned about falling off the machine as it features ergonomic handlebars and an anti-skid walking surface. The handrails are made to perfection which allows you to have a better grip while you’re using the machine. The treadmill is extremely durable so you can perform light jogging and walk with ease. A fitness machine needs to be easily transported therefore, the machine has transportation wheels that make it easy to move. The compact design of the treadmill makes it easier to store it.

The LED screen allows you to monitor the distance traveled, speed, and a number of calories burned. The machine is a bit challenging to use compared to the electric treadmills. However, it’s best for those who want a manual walking treadmill. 

The treadmill is stable which means you don’t have to worry about the machine getting tilted because the floor stabilizer creates balance. Even if you place the treadmill on an uneven floor, the machine remains balanced. 

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407 is a good value for money considering the fact that it offers extra features that are found in the latest treadmills. 

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight
• Non-slip surface
• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• The incline is non-adjustable

Factors To Consider When Choosing Treadmill For Seniors

For seniors, you should consider treadmills that have better safety features and are easy to operate. Below we have discussed some very important things for your consideration.

Safety Features/Primary Considerations:

Safety FIRST!!! No matter what you are doing with your body, safety should always be the number one priority, and that goes for choosing the best treadmill for seniors as well. Luckily, there are a few things you can look for in order to make sure your elderly loved ones will be as safe as possible while using a treadmill.

Hand Rails:

Look for a treadmill that has an ergonomic design to ensure the safety of the seniors. The handrails help seniors to their balance and prevent falls while walking or running on a treadmill.

Make sure the treadmill has long handrails instead of the short handrails offered by most of the treadmills. The full-length rails can offer the better support that you need.

Shock Absorption and Cushioning System:

Deck cushioning is also an important safety feature to look for in a treadmill for seniors as it reduces the risk of potential injuries while they are walking or running. Some models reduce the impact on joints up to 40% which is great for seniors.

Look for a treadmill that is equipped with a better cushioning system. You may have to increase the budget if you are looking for a treadmill with shock absorption systems.

Safety Key:

A Safety key is a small hand held remote control that can be worn with the wrist strap around your wrist or clipped to your clothes. It is designed to protect against falls, as dramatic as it may sound.

The treadmill will not actually move or turn on when the safety key is not in place. This prevents any accidental activation while you’re walking on the treadmill.

Always make sure that the treadmill for seniors has a safety key feature that automatically switches off the machine and can be easily accessed in case of an emergency.

Emergency Stop Button:

The emergency stop button will automatically disable the power to the motor and all rotating parts of the machine in case of accidental movement, overloading, or excessive speed. This will prevent you from being injured by the machine.

This button should be easily accessible in case your loved one falls or needs to stop the treadmill for any reason.

Low Profile:

Finally, make sure the treadmill you choose has a low profile. This will make it easier for seniors to get on and off the machine.

Non Slip and Spacious Running Surface:

That’s why it is important to choose a model that has a wide and long textured walking area. Look for a treadmill with at least an 18″ wide and 50″ long belt so that you don’t have to worry about your feet hitting the sides or the end of the belt.

Next, you’ll want to consider the non-slip spacious running surface. This is important for two reasons. First, it will help prevent falls. Second, it will provide a more comfortable surface for seniors to walk on.

Moreover, consider choosing a treadmill that has 2 ply belts instead of 1, 3, or 4 because it’s easier to run on a 2 ply belt and is more durable than a 1 ply belt.

Other Considerations

Speed:

Motorized treadmills offer a range of speed settings. This way, you can start off slowly and increase the speed as you get more comfortable using the machine. However, the low-speed settings are ideal for seniors because they use a treadmill for walking or light jogging instead of speedy sprints.

Therefore, for seniors, it’s recommended to go for treadmills having a top speed of up to 4 MPH.

Treadmill’s Design:

You’ll find both lightweight and bulky treadmills. Lightweight treadmills have a lighter frame that makes them easier to handle, whereas heavy treadmills are difficult to handle and transport. If you’ve got limited space at home, go for a foldable treadmill. They are easy to fold and store.

Weight Capacity:

Most treadmills have a weight limit of 250 pounds, but there are some heavy duty treadmills that can accommodate up to 500 pounds. It is important to make sure that the treadmill you choose can hold the weight of the person using it.

Budget:

As per our assesment, seniors don’t need treadmill for marathon or HIIT trainings. Therefore, treadmills with basic functions and essential safety features work for them. So, pick out the treadmill according to your budget and requirements. If you invest in a high-end treadmill, you’ll likely be getting a range of features such as a powerful motor, pre-programmed workout options, and greater speed settings. On the other hand, cheaper models have limited functionalities.

Which is the best treadmill for Seniors?

ProGear HCXL 4000 is among the best treadmill for an older person that works like a charm. With this treadmill, seniors can enjoy the benefits of having a wide treadmill belt to run and can use sensors. The long handrails of the treadmill ensure the safety of the senior users. Moreover, the compact frame makes it easier to store the machine. What sets the machine apart is the fact that it can accommodate heavy users up to 400 lbs. It’s a rock-solid treadmill that is definitely going to last long.

FAQ’s

How to use a treadmill safely?

Here are a few tips on how seniors can use a treadmill safely:

• Start by walking at a slow pace to warm up your muscles.
• Increase your speed gradually.
• Hold onto the handrails when necessary.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Stop immediately if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.

Which is better for seniors? Manual vs Motorized Treadmill?

There are two types of treadmill – Manual, and Motorized. Manual treadmills make use of the leg motion to move the treadmill belt whereas the motorized treadmill uses a motor to move the belt. The speed is controlled through buttons. The manual machines are reasonable and lighter as compared to the motorized treadmill. You can check out both of the types according to your requirements and budget.

Is treadmill good for elderly?

The answer to this question is a bit nuanced. For some elderly people, using a treadmill can be helpful for increasing mobility and flexibility. However, for others, using a treadmill can actually be dangerous, as it can increase the risk of falls and other injuries. Ultimately, whether or not a treadmill is good for an elderly person depends on that person’s individual health and fitness level.

How fast should a 70 year old walk on a treadmill?

A 70 year old should aim to walk somewhere between 2 to 3mph. According to Healthline.com, the average walking speed for people between the ages of 60 and 89 is 2.1 mph to 3.0 mph.