Home Exercise Equipment Adviser

Buying a cheap motorized treadmill can be difficult, there are a few models on the market for under $500 but they often lack features in certain areas or are maybe more suited for walking exercises rather than jogging or running. If you are thinking of buying a cheap motorized treadmill be sure it is going to be suitable for your purposes.

As a rough guide if you are after a cheap motorized treadmill for jogging you should be looking for a treadmill with a motor rated at 2-2.5 hp that can be operated at speeds from 0-10mph. This is suitable for most joggers. Be careful to choose a machine with a suitable belt length, for running you are best with a belt length of at least 50 inches to accommodate longer stride patterns when running. A treadmill with incline settings will help you get fitter over a longer period, as your fitness grows you can up the incline and speed to push you on. Most inclines should go to ten degrees, beyond that the treadmill is likely to get unstable.

If you are after a motorized treadmill for walking exercises then a smaller belt and less powerful motor is not a bad thing. Check out some of the cheapest motorized treadmills on the market below :

Merit Fitness 735T Treadmill – Not the cheapest motorized treadmill for sale on the market but if you are looking for a basic machine you can jog on this is probably one of the best available for under $500. Comes with a 52 inch running deck, 1.75 continuous horse power motor giving speeds up to 10 mph, motorized incline to ten degrees and folds away after use. Has 6 program choices and numerous other features. Most reviewers recommend this machine as being quiet in use and surprisingly good value for a cheap treadmill and impressive warranty on the motor (full lifetime).

Proform 380 CS Treadmill – At under $400 this machine warrants greater inspection. Comes with a 50 inch running/walking deck and a 1.5 continuous horse power motor. Maximum speed is 10 mph and incline to 10% all digitally controlled for ease of use. Warranties are not as good as the Merit 735T but the price is lower. Probably the best priced treadmill suitable for walking exercises the running board at 50 inches is probably not ideal for taller individuals looking to jog as the Merit at 52 inches would be.

Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill – This treadmill is probably the best available for under $600. Comes with a 2.25 continuous horse power motor giving speed up to 10mph and incline to10% all digitally controlled. Running surface is an excellent 55 inch belt and the machine features 9 programs, led display, mp3 speaker system and can take a maximum weight of 300 pounds. Fold up design for easy storage. Many reviewers comment on the gym feel of this machine, sturdy construction, ease of assembly and surprisingly good cushioned running deck.