The Ultimate Guide to the Best Treadmill for Heavy Runners In 2020

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Let Us Point You Towards The Best Running Treadmill If You’re Plus Sized

Treadmills are a great way to lose weight, but if you’re plus-sized, you need to make your decision wisely. The wrong treadmill may not support your weight or give you the workout you’re looking for. And if you hate using the machine, it will just sit in the corner collecting dust.

LifeSpan TR1200i Folding Treadmill

Our favorite for 2020

Horizon Fitness T101-04 Treadmill

A great value option

Sole Fitness F85 Folding Treadmill

Heavy-duty with 400-pound weight limit

If you’re a heavy runner looking for a treadmill, here are some things to be on the lookout for when comparing models:

  • Weight Capacity: The first and most important thing is to check out the treadmill’s weight capacity to make sure it’s right for you. The maximum weight should be listed in the product description.
  • Quality: As a heavy user, you want to make sure that you choose a quality treadmill that’s durable and well-constructed. Heavier users put a little extra strain on treadmills, so quality becomes even more important here. User reviews are typically a good indication of how well the treadmill is made and how long it will last you.
  • Cushioned Running Surface: Plus-size runners will put more strain on their joints when they run, and running is hard on the joints as is. Consider choosing a model that has a cushioned running surface. These are easier on the joints, which will make your workouts more comfortable.

These three key important things will help you find a treadmill that meets your needs. We’ve chosen five of the best models out there using the criteria above, so you can find the ideal one for you.

Reviews – Our Five Picks for the Best Treadmill for an Obese Person

LifeSpan TR1200i – The LifeSpan TR1200i is a folding treadmill with high-end quality and features at a middle-range price. And its deck suspension system is biomechanically correct, so it’s capable of supporting up to 300 pounds.

The 2.5 HP motor keeps this treadmill going, while the 20” x 56” running surface gives you plenty of space. The LCD console helps you reach your fitness goals by displaying your calories, time, speed and more.

If your aim is to lose weight, this treadmill offers several built-in programs to help you achieve this goal. In addition to weight loss programs, there are also heart rate, sports training and healthy living programs.

When you’re done using this treadmill, simply fold it up and store it away in the corner.

Bowflex TreadClimber TC10 – From one of the most recognizable brands in the industry, the Bowflex TreadClimber TC10 is one of the more high-end treadmills on our list, but it’s also one of the most unique.

Rather than offering a flat running surface, the TC10 acts as a stair climber, elliptical and a treadmill. Two tracks are available for each foot, and these tracks move up and down just as a stair climber or elliptical to make your workouts more challenging.

Its compact design won’t take up much space in your home, and the four separate LCD screens let you keep track of important workout data.

The TC10 offers a low-impact workout that’s easy on the joints while helping you burn more calories than a conventional treadmill. And this model can accommodate up to 300 pounds.

Horizon Fitness T101-04 – The T101-04 from Horizon Fitness is a folding treadmill that offers speeds up to 10 MPH and an incline of up to 10%. The 20” x 55” running space gives you plenty of room to walk or run, while the 30 built-in workout programs challenge you to step up your game.

The built-in workouts include: 10 distance workouts, 10 step workouts, 3 intervals and 6 calorie workouts.

As a nice bonus feature, this model comes with built-in speakers and MP3 compatibility, so you can listen to your favorite music while you run.

The T101-04 offers a weight capacity of 300 pounds, making it a great option for heavy runners.

ProForm Pro 2000 – ProForm’s Pro 2000 is a high-end treadmill that offers speeds up to 12 MPH and iFit compatibility. An iPod music port allows you to listen to music while you exercise, and the 18 preset workouts will whip you into shape. There’s also a fan built in to help you stay cool while you exercise.

The 20” x 60” running surface features ProShox cushioning, so you don’t put excess strain on your joints as you run. Absorbers are also located on each side of the deck.

The commercial-grade construction ensures that the Pro 2000 gives you years of use, and it can accommodate up to 375 pounds.

Sole F85  – The most advanced treadmill on our list. The Sole F85 is ideal for heavy users that are worried about joint impact. Built with the Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, this treadmill is proven to reduce the impact on your joints by up to 40% when compared to running on pavement.

The F85 offers speed ranges of 0.5-12 MPH and incline of 0-15%. A pulse grip is built in to help you keep track of your heart rate, and there are several built-in workout programs, including: 6 standard, 2 heart, and 2 custom.

A cooling fan and MP3 connectivity make your workouts more fun and comfortable, while the 9” LCD display ensures that you never miss any important workout information.

With a weight capacity of 400 pounds, the Sole F85 is the ideal choice for obese runners.

Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Right Treadmill for the Heavy Runner in Your Life

Earlier we discussed the importance of weight capacity, quality and joint cushioning. But what else should you be looking for when choosing a treadmill?

Treadmill for Heavy Runners

  • Treadmill Type: We reviewed two types of treadmills: conventional and a treadclimber. Both are great options, but you’ll need to choose the right one for your needs. A treadclimber will be easier on the joints, but you won’t be able to run. A conventional treadmill may be a little harder on the joints, but you’ll have the option of running or walking.
  • Size: Never underestimate the importance of size. Treadmills can be quite large and heavy. Make sure you have enough space in your home for the model you’re considering. Look for models that fold up to save on space. Don’t forget to take the machine’s weight into account as well. You may need some help getting the machine inside and assembling it.
  • Extra Features: Some treadmills have cooling fans, speakers and MP3-player compatibility. Others have simple designs with nothing more than a few workout programs (if that). Determine which features are most important to you. Just remember that extra features will add to the overall price of the treadmill. If you can live without the fans and music, you’ll be able to save quite a bit of money on your purchase.
  • Price: Last – but not least – is the price. The cost of the treadmill will likely be the deciding factor, but it shouldn’t be the only one. The cheapest treadmill may stop working after just a few uses. It’s often worth the cost to invest in a better quality treadmill that will provide you with years of use.