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Best Treadmill for Seniors

Treadmills are one of the most popular types of exercise equipment available today, especially due to their ease of use, and can easily be incorporated into a senior's exercise routine. Because treadmill settings are extremely customizable, they are ideal for any senior citizen who is looking to reap some extra health benefits through new workout programs.

Walking on a treadmill allows seniors to get up and moving while keeping them safe at the same time. Many studies show that individuals aged 65 and above should try to get at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise weekly. The controlled environment and features of a treadmill are the perfect match for seniors who want to get and stay active from the convenience of their own homes.

What Are the Benefits of a Treadmill for Seniors?

There are numerous benefits of a treadmill for seniors. Regularly using a treadmill for walking can help seniors get their heart rate up, and thus improve their heart health. In the long run, it can build strength, balance, and mobility. Treadmills can also help you burn extra calories for weight loss and improve your metabolism.

The controlled surface of the treadmill belt ensures that you put much less stress on your body as compared to walking or running outdoors. It can regulate your blood pressure, increase blood flow, strengthen your muscles, and minimize the pressure on your joints as well. The LCD display can help you track your progress and set goals—which can be very much rewarding.

What Should Seniors Look for When Buying a Treadmill?

Safety Keys

Using a treadmill is safe, but it is always best if they have additional features to ensure seniors' security and safety. Some treadmills may have a safety key or an emergency button to turn the machine off instantly.

Hand Rails

To ensure only the safest options for seniors, make sure to check for safety handles or handrails. Longer and fuller handrails, preferably with cushioned or foam padding, and ergonomic designs for better grip are advised.

Speed Settings

Most, if not all treadmills have a speed range for you to adjust when needed. For seniors, it is good to look out for a model that has lower speed ranges since they will likely be walking or brisk walking instead of running.

Is Using the Treadmill Safe for Seniors?

Using a treadmill is safe for seniors, but there are a few key things to keep in mind:

  • Consult with your physician if you can actually use a treadmill
  • Do not walk barefoot on the treadmill
  • Wear the proper footwear and make sure that the laces are tied securely
  • Stretch and warm-up before you get on the treadmill, and cool down afterward
  • Look straight ahead and not at your feet
  • Stay towards the front of the machine, closer to the LCD screen
  • Do not fully rely on or hold onto the handrails throughout the duration of your workout
  • Start with the lowest speed setting and only increase this when you get the hang of walking on the treadmill
  • Turn the treadmill off and wait for it to fully stop before getting off it

Choosing a Treadmill for Seniors

We've done the work for you and have gathered a list of some of the best treadmills for seniors in the market. We looked at a number of different treadmill brands, reviews, features, and price points to come up with a comprehensive list of the best home treadmills for you to seek out today.

Best for Portability: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

  • $369.99 to $399.99
  • 40 x 16 inches
  • Five-layer non-slip running belt

The Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill is not only great for portability, but also for its different modes. It has a foldable riser for two different options for your workout. Starting at $369.99, this model boasts great value for money. Its motor is 2.25HP, but it is still quiet. The Goplus has a steel frame for maximum durability and stability. It has a running belt that is non-slip with 5 layer protection.

It comes with a LED display so you can monitor distance, calories burnt, speed, and time. You will also be able to connect your phone via Bluetooth, and it also has smart app controls for sharing your workout data and progress. You can simply fold and store this model when not in use.

Best for Limited Mobility: Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill

  • $579.98
  • 44 x 19.5 inches
  • Shock absorption technology makes it easy on the joints

The Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill is recommended for senior citizens with limited mobility because of its multi-grip handrails. Located both in front and on the sides, users will feel at ease knowing that there is lots of support. While on the pricier side at $579.98, it is worth it for its shock absorption technology that lessens the stress and impact on a user's joints.

Speed settings can be adjusted between 0.6 MPH to 5 MPH. This treadmill has a weight capacity of up to 295 lbs, and there is more than enough space on its running deck which is 44 x 19.5 inches. This treadmill has wheels for easy moving and storage. Its settings allow you to change up your workouts and goals every time you use it.

Best for Recovery: Exerpeutic TF2000 Recovery Fitness Walking Treadmill

  • $630.34
  • 61.5 x 30 x 51 inches
  • Ten deck cushioning system

This model by Exerpeutic is a fantastic treadmill for an elderly individual who is in recovery. Its deck height is relatively lower at 5", with 49" of padding, while it also has full handrails in case you need additional support. Speed can be adjusted from 0.2-5 MPH. It has a ten deck cushioning system to lessen joint impact and pain, which is why it is a great treadmill for walking post-injury or accident.

While priced at $630.34, the Exerpeutic TF2000 is one of the best treadmills available for recovery purposes as it is easy to use. It also has a safety clip, emergency stop button, water bottle holder, and an LCD display for progress monitoring.

Best for Affordability: Merax Electric Folding Treadmill

  • $299.99
  • 55 x 23.5 x 43 inches
  • Comes with 12 pre-set workout programs

The Merax Electric Folding Treadmill may be one of the cheaper models, but it is a great treadmill option nonetheless—whether or not you are on a budget. It is another portable treadmill that you can cart around from room to room. You can adjust the speed between 0.5 to 7.5 MPH. It can accommodate a user weight of up to 240 lbs. This model has 12 programs built-in to get you started.

You will be able to monitor time, speed, distance, and calories on its screen—and even play music on its speakers to hype you up as you exercise. The belt is made with a non-slip lawn texture to keep your footprint gentle and secure at the same time. There are buttons on the handrails for quick adjustments and emergency needs.

Best for Those Willing to Spend: LifeSpan TR2000e Electric Folding Treadmill

  • $999
  • 33 x 70.25 x 55 inches
  • Folds and unfolds with the e press of a button

The priciest option on the list, the LifeSpan TR2000e Electric Folding Treadmill is the best treadmill for those willing to spending more on premium features. One notable feature is its 8 impact-absorbing compression shocks for only the utmost comfort while walking. It also has a weight capacity of up to 300 lbs. Its screen displays the usual metrics, but it also has 17 exercise programs pre-installed.

This is a high-tech model, which also comes with a USB port to connect your devices. You can fold it with the press of a button and have it back up and working the same way. You can also change the incline and speed instantly.

Best for Active Seniors: Weslo Crosswalk 5.2t Total Body Treadmill

  • $359
  • 47 x 16 inches
  • Comes with upper arm resistance mechanisms

Seniors who are on the more active side may opt for the Weslo Crosswalk 5.2T Total Body Treadmill. This model is moderately priced, and it even comes with upper arm resistance mechanisms for full-body workouts. It has 2 adjustable power incline positions, 4 pre-installed workout apps, a heart rate monitor, and a 10 MPH speed control. The maximum weight capacity of the Weslo Crosswalk is 250 lbs.

Another interesting feature of this model is its CHP Impulse Motor that ensures smooth workouts and operations each time. You can also stow this treadmill when not in use as it is foldable.

Best for a Higher Weight Capacity: Exerpeutic TF1000 Ultra High Capacity Walk to Fitness Electric Treadmill

  • $670
  • 63 x 32 x 51.2 inches
  • Weight capacity of up to 400 lbs

Any person who wants a treadmill with a higher weight capacity may choose this particular model by Exerpeutic. Compared to other models, it can accommodate up to 400 lbs. Its safety handrails are longer at 18 inches and its belt is also 20 inches wide. It is one of the best walking treadmills especially for those who are starting to exercise as its speed increases up to 4 MPH.

Despite its size, you can fold its entire frame. You will also be able to keep track of your progress, as its display shows pulse, speed, distance, time, and calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far should a 70-year-old walk every day?

It has been found that in good physical shape older adults walk 2,000 to 9,000 steps daily. This is the equivalent of walking 1 to 4.5 miles respectively.

Is walking 30 minutes a day enough exercise?

Working out even for just 30 minutes a day is a way to increase your cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones and build muscle. It can also reduce excess body fat as well as the risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or osteoporosis.

Is it better to walk longer or faster?

Walking is an excellent way to increase the number of calories burned while reducing stress. Researchers say that walking slower for a longer period of time can make you burn more calories.

What is a good speed for a beginner on a treadmill?

The optimal rate for beginner treadmill runners' walk cycles should be less than five kilometers per hour.
Anything above 7.5 kilometers per hour is considered running, but the treadmills will make it easy for you because they allow beginners to adjust their walking speeds at any time or alternate between a jog and run by simply adjusting the incline level on your machine

Does walking reduce belly fat?

As you exercise, your body fat percentage decreases and calories are burned. Running or walking not only helps with reducing belly fat; it also sheds weight from other areas of the body too.

Finding the best treadmills for seniors can help you get one step closer to achieving better health no matter what age you are. Whether you want an incline feature, full handrails, emergency buttons, or a full-powered LCD screen – there is a model out there waiting for you. Want more tips on health and wellness for a senior citizen? Check out some of our previous articles or contact Senior Strong today!

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