Best Manual Treadmills 2021
In this Guide
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to a motorized treadmill, or if you just want the best workout possible without breaking your bank, manual treadmills might be an excellent choice. Give it a try today with new features like Bluetooth compatibility so that when things get tough out there – check-in at home where it’s warm and cozy instead of being miserable outside this holiday season!
As you know, the best treadmill for you is determined by your budget, training needs, and goals. Our list below outlines our pick of Best Manual Treadmills including hybrid treads that are perfect if you want to train on the road as well as home with some powerful features like folding up when not in use or even just walking around outdoors!
What is a Manual Treadmill?
Motorized treadmills are the standard type of treadmill. These operate by running an electric motor that moves a belt along (or on) the surface, which in turn creates what it feels like to move forward. Most people who use these types of machines do so at home or in gyms and they often have different speeds, inclines/declines, and handles for extra support when exercising with them. The console may be minimalistic or high-tech depending on preference — but either way, they will usually tell you information about your workout such as mile time & calorie burned after each session.
However, manual treadmills are perfect for those looking to exercise without the hassle of plugging in a machine. Manual machines can be put anywhere and do not require an outlet, which is perfect if you want to get your workout on during vacation or at work!
What are the Different Kinds of Manual Treadmills
Traditional Manual Treadmills
These treadmills are great for:
- People who just want to walk
- Its ability to place your tread anywhere since it is lightweight and doesn’t require a plug
- People who don’t care about extra tech
- Walkers looking for something easy that is simple to get on and off
Slat Belt Manual Treadmills
These treadmills are great for:
- Athletes or professionals who want to take their training up a notch
- Users who want to get higher calorie burn while running
- People whose focus is running form and strength who don’t need or require a screen or tech
- Gym owners with experienced users
Hybrid Treadmills
These treadmills are great for:
- Homes with multiple users at different conditioning levels
- Those who want to walk and run, with added manual challenges
- Users who want the benefits of added tech with manual functions as well
- Walkers who want incline options for a low-impact challenge
- Coaches and gym owners with a varied clientele
Top 10 Best Manual Treadmills 2021
Out of all the treadmills out there, these are our top picks for the best manual treadmills. These machines have received awards from Treadmill Review Guru and you can’t go wrong with anyone!
1. Assault Fitness AirRunner Treadmill
The Assault AirRunner is our pick for Best Overall Manual Treadmill. This product of high-end engineering comes with the accessibility to fit any type of runner from beginners, all the way through advanced athletes and those looking for intense workouts that are great on your joints! Affordable at under $3500 this curved manual treadmill was a favorite because it has everything an athlete needs in one machine including incline options up to 15%.
Key Features:
- Curved Frame
- Slat Belt
- Fully Manual
Specifications:
- Battery operated LCD screen
- Bluetooth enabled
- Rubber slat belt
- Curved Running Surface
- Upright handrails
- Non Folding
- Reinforced steel construction
- No incline
- No max speed — will go as fast as you do
- 350lb weight capacity
- 280lb treadmill weight
- 5-Year Frame warranty
- 3-Year Non-wear parts warranty
- 1-Year Labor warranty
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fully manual requires no electricity | Doesn’t fold up |
| No max speed | No motorized option (not a hybrid) |
| Curved slat belt design enables a healthy foot strike and toe-off | Difficult to assemble |
| The belt will last up to 150,000 miles | No subscription content |
Final Thoughts:
The Assault AirRunner is an outstanding manual treadmill! Whether you are a weekend warrior, triathlete, or just a casual runner looking for the best manual treadmill on the market, this sturdy curved machine will be sure to satisfy you. The smooth cushioned motorized belt can move from 0-12 mph depending on your needs and preferences while keeping it cool with its built-in fan. It also comes equipped with a heart rate monitoring system so that you can keep track of how hard you’re working out during those long runs outside anytime day or night! Give it a try today and enjoy some of these unique benefits when running outdoors without fear of injury.
2. NordicTrack Commercial x32i Incline Trainer/Treadmill
The NordicTrack x32i is a hybrid, motorized treadmill with a manual option. The deck has generous cushioning that will work for any user and the console can be programmed to change speeds or incline intervals so users are able to easily jump from one speed to another in just seconds; perfect for those who like variety!
The wide deck of the X32I makes it easy on grandma’s joints while your dedicated teenage track star trains at 6mph-9pmh sprints alternating every few minutes between varying inclines. With its touchscreen controls, you don’t even have to go near an annoying panel anymore–simply press preset buttons when they’re done training either manually or using their heart rate monitor program.
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Traditional belt
- Hybrid with motor and manual option
Specifications:
- 4.25HP motor
- Manual mode with Sled push feature
- Bluetooth Audio
- 22” x 65” Commercial Tread belt
- 32” Touchscreen
- Workout fans in the console
- 15% incline to -6% decline
- Reflex cushioning in the deck
- 12mph max speed
- 1-year iFit subscription free
- 50 onboard workouts
- 300lb user capacity
- 10-year frame warranty
- 2-year parts warranty
- 1-year labor warranty
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Motorized and manual mode options | Doesn’t feature a manual mode for sprinting |
| iFit included free for one year | Doesn’t fold up |
| Standard tread belt design | |
| Fans in console |
Final Thoughts:
The NordicTrack x32i is the best of both worlds with great motorized functionality and a manual mode as well! This machine would work great in a home with multiple users at varying levels of training.
3. TrueForm Runner Treadmill
The TrueForm Runner is a fully manual curved trainer with multiple customization options. We love the price point and runners will enjoy choosing from different running surfaces, including artificial turf! This machine was designed for serious athletes looking to purchase an easy-to-use exercise tool that also accommodates all levels of experience. The gentler curve makes it safer than comparable models but still offers a high-quality performance so you can follow your fitness dreams without sacrificing stability or strength gains due to excessive strain on joints caused by continuous repetition in motion machines like treadmills.
The TrueForm runner has many features that make this unit stand out among its competition: customizable paint color (choose between flashy fluorescent hues or classic monochromatic tones) as well as varying accessibility.
Key Features:
- Curved frame
- Slat belt
- Fully manual
Specifications:
- Runner Specifications:
- Dimensions: 64″ x 36″ x 63″
- Unit Weight: 340lb
- Max Weight: 500lb
- Frame: 7 gauge Steel Formed & Welded
- Covers: Single Piece – Aluminum Formed & Welded
- Tread Surface: Bonded Kraiburg Thermolast made by Smith and Wesson
- Bearings: 106 Sealed Steel Ball Bearings
- Pulleys: Tooled Solid Aluminum
- Display: LED – Bright Display Rechargeable Battery
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Subtle curve design but maintains the benefits of curved training | Still expensive |
| Customizable color and logo options motorized features or options | |
| Standard slat belt surface is standard | |
| No max speed |
Final Thoughts:
The TrueForm Runner is a perfect option for coaches, teams, gyms, and cross-fit studios. With its affordable price point and many customization options including color choices as well the standard slat belt or artificial turf surface, you are sure to find your ideal treadmill!
4. NordicTrack Commercial x22i Incline Trainer/Treadmill
The NordicTrack x22i is the most affordable machine on our list of high-end manual treadmills. With a standard treadmill and motor, it also has a manual mode for sled push and resistance work. This makes it perfect for anyone in your home! This makes it an excellent choice because you’re getting all of that great functionality without having to pay extra! For this reason, we have awarded its best buy status in our list of high-end manuals so check it out today if you need one at a budget-friendly price tag!
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Traditional belt
- Hybrid with motor and manual option
Specifications:
- 22” x 60” Commercial Tread Belt
- 4.0 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor
- Reflex™ Cushioning
- 70.2” L x 39.6” W x 71.6” H Footprint
- 22” Smart HD Touchscreen
- Dual AutoBreeze™ Workout Fans
- 1-Year NordicTrack iFit® membership**
- 40% Incline and -6% Decline
- 12 MPH Speed
- iFit Bluetooth® Chest Strap Included
- 50 On-Board Workout Programs
- 10-Year Frame Warranty
- 2-Year Parts Warranty
- 1-Year Labor Warranty
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable high-end treadmills under $3000 | 300lb user capacity |
| The motorized setting has a -6% decline and 40% incline! | Manual mode only works for sled push and parachute training (you can’t run in manual mode) |
| Reflex cushioning reduces shock | |
| Workout fans in the console |
Final Thoughts:
The NordicTrack x22i is a treadmill that allows you to work out at varying intensities. It has an option for everyone and also comes with fitness programs such as hiking, running, walking, or jogging on the machine’s deck. There are different levels of difficulty depending on your level of conditioning: walkers can use it without even using any incline whereas joggers will have to change the elevation so they’re not going too fast from start-stop movements!
5. Woodway Curve Treadmill
There’s no arguing that the Woodway is one of the most respected and well-known treadmills in today’s market. This curvature treadmill can be found on high-end gyms, professional training facilities, or even your own home gym for a price tag over $10k– but what do you get out of it? The answer: an unmatched level of comfort with all types of movement from running to sprinting at speeds up to 16 miles per hour.
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Slat belt
- Hybrid with motor and manual option
Specifications:
- Belt: 56” L x 17” W
- Step up height: 11” off the floor
- Footprint: 67” L x 33” W x 66” H
- Tread weight: 355 lbs
- Max Speed: None
- Max User Weight: 400 lbs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The non-motorized design encourages healthy biomechanics | Very heavy; recommended only for ground floor |
| 60 rubber slats absorb impact for proper foot strike and strong toe-off | Expensive — priced at or above $10,000 |
| 150,000-mile belt life requires no maintenance | No accessories |
| Non-motorized belt burns more calories | Slat belt surface takes some getting used to |
Final Thoughts:
Woodway manufactures the best, highest-quality treadmills in North America. The equipment is expensive, but with a Woodway treadmill comes unmatched reliability and durability that will last you for years to come.
6. Technogym SkillRun TX 500 Treadmill
Not all treadmills are created equal. The Technogym SkillRun is the best of both worlds: it has a motorized belt that can be used for running or manual use, and also provides runners with detailed information about their gait, cadence, foot pattern—whatever they want to know! It’s like having your own personal trainer right there in your home gym.
Another high-end hybrid treadmill for your home workout regimen is the Technogym SkillsRUN flat frame treadmill with many functions designed specifically by athletes who train on them every day – similar to Peloton Tread but not limited to cycling workouts only (though you have plenty of options as well). This machine features a slat design which helps isolate each stride
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Slat belt
- Hybrid with motor and manual option
Specifications:
- SkillRun Weight: 492 lbs
- Footprint: 73” H x 34” W x 66” D
- Step Up Height: 12.6” off the floor
- Belt life: Up to 100,000 miles
- Max user weight: 485 lbs
- Speed range: up to 18.6mph
- Incline/Decline: -3% decline to 25% incline
- Multidrive functionality for both Run and Resistance
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Biofeedback technology gives real-time info for targeted training | Expensive and heavy! |
| Motorized belt with a manual option for sled or parachute work | Not expressly a manual tread — has manual options |
| Slat belt design with added biometrics | Must be specially ordered for home use |
| Large 22” wide by 68” long-running surface | Slat belt surface takes some getting used to |
Final Thoughts:
The pricey machine has a weight that may put it out of reach for the casual user. I would say this is not an ideal choice for someone looking to just get in shape, but if you happen to be military or Olympian-minded then this might be worth your money and time!
7. Confidence Fitness Magnetic Treadmill
These treadmills are perfect for those who want to stay healthy without breaking the bank. These devices can be easily ordered on Amazon and have a low price point while still being reliable enough for anyone looking to get in shape at home or just walk off some of that winter weight gain before summer arrives!
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Nonmotorized
- A lightweight treadmill that folds up
Specifications:
- Suitable for users up to 220lbs
- 12-month warranty
- Runway size: 15″ x 40.2″
- Product footprint: 19.1″ x 47.2″
- Size when folded : 48″ (h) x 7.9″ (d)
- Box dimensions : 52.1″ x 24.4″ x 9.3
- Weight: 46.9lbs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient | Not the most durable treadmill; but great value |
| Magnetic resistance doesn’t require a motor | The incline is not adjustable |
| Doesn’t require a wall outlet | |
| Will fold up and slide out of the way |
Final Thoughts:
The Confidence Magnetic Treadmill uses magnets to move the belt along, making it quieter and lighter. You can place it in any room without worrying about a noisy motor disturbing your sleep or atmosphere. When you’re finished with this treadmill, just fold it up for easy storage!
8. Sunny Health & Fitness Treadmill
The Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill is perfect for walking. The folding, lightweight running surface of 42in x 13in makes this a great option for power walkers or light joggers with limited space. This nifty machine lets you create goal-specific workouts by tracking time, speed, and calories burned while also providing the ability to scan through performance data without lifting a finger!
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Nonmotorized
- A lightweight treadmill that folds up
Specifications:
- Walking surface: 42in x 13in
- LCD monitor tracks time, speed, calories burned, and steps
- Non-electric design
- Max weight of 220lbs
- Footprint: 49” long by 23” wide and 50” high
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and lightweight | Not good for jogging or running |
| Slight incline | No cushioning in the deck |
| Non-motorized | Very small |
| Folds up |
Final Thoughts:
The Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill is a small, light manual model that’s perfect for walking. The smaller frame may not support jogging, but it can be placed in front of your TV to make the news enjoyable while you walk with gentle speed outdoors.
9. Stamina InMotion Treadmill
The Stamina InMotion manual treadmill is a versatile machine that can be used in different ways, from walking to jogging. It has dual weighted flywheels and two incline positions so you have more control over your workout routine. The electronic monitor tracks time, speed, distance walked or run while showing calories burned for the user’s convenience as well!
Key Features:
- Flat frame
- Nonmotorized
- A lightweight treadmill that folds up
Specifications:
- Dual weighted flywheels for smooth operation
- Two incline positions: 10 and 8 degrees
- Display shows time, speed, distance, calories burned, and scans with simple, one-button control
- Textured, non-slip walking/jogging surface
- Foam padded front and side rails
- Sturdy steel frame folds for storage
- Built-in wheels for portability
- Skid-resistant rubber floor protectors maximize stability
- No electricity needed
- Running belt dimensions: 41 by 12 3/8 inches (L x W)
- Overall dimensions: 47 by 22 by 45 inches (L x W x H)
- Folded footprint: 17 x 22 inches
- Maximum user weight: 225 pounds
- Some assembly required
- One-year frame warranty
- 90-day parts warranty
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and easily folds up | Not as durable |
| Good for injury rehabilitation | Small walking surface |
| Doesn’t require a plug | |
| Affordable |
Final Thoughts:
The Stamina InMotion Manual Treadmill is a great option for those looking to get their steps in but lack the space and want something that doesn’t require electricity. This machine can be used anywhere, from getting your morning workouts done at home with nowhere else to place it during the day or on vacation when you don’t have access to an outlet!
10. SpeedFit Speedboard Pro XL
The SpeedFit Pro XL’s curved surface is spacious enough to handle 400 pounds of running and 800 walking. It would be suitable for runners of all sizes, with a weight capacity of up to 400 pounds running or 880 walking!
Key Features:
- Tread belt system for shock-absorbing
- Can handle up to 400 pounds of weight
- 56 individual strips on the belt
Specifications:
- Spacious curved surface:17×66 inches
- Warranty: 10 years
- Built-in workouts: 5000
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious running deck | Heavy |
| The shock-absorbing tread belt system | |
| 5,000 personal workouts | |
| Weight capacity of up to 400 pounds |
Final Thoughts:
The SpeedFit Speedboard Pro XL is the perfect fitness accessory for running enthusiasts of all levels. It can handle up to 400 pounds in weight and even 800-pounds when walking, which will be suitable for runners regardless of their size or level of fitness. The spacious curved surface—17×66 inches—makes it a quick choice as there are no other products on the market that compare with its unique benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
HOW DO I RUN ON A MANUAL TREADMILL?
Answer: For a flat manual treadmill, you will run like you would on a normal motorized treadmill. A curved belt manual treadmill requires a slightly better form like elite runners would have. The faster that you move, the faster the treadmill will go because you are propelling the motion of the treadmill.
WILL A MANUAL TREADMILL STOP WHEN I STOP?
Answer: Yes, a manual treadmill will stop when you stop, because it’s powered by you! Manual treadmills require hard work. They are not like a power-assisted, motorized treadmill. You will get to decide the speed, so if you go at a speed of 0, that’s what the speed of the treadmill will be.
ARE MANUAL TREADMILLS QUIETER THAN MOTORIZED TREADMILLS?
Answer: Generally speaking, a manual treadmill does not generate the same level of noise as an electric model. However, it is not completely silent. The belt may create friction, but only some loud squeaks occasionally. So, try a treadmill pad to minimize the noise
Conclusion
We hope our list has assisted you choose the best treadmill for you. Instead of just listing a bunch of treadmills to show off all the features they have that may appeal to some people but not others – something most companies do in an attempt to get their product on as many people’s radar screens as possible- we decided this would be more useful if it were broken down into categories so folks could compare different types side by side without having one person stand out from another. There are also several fantastic manual treadmills that will augment and propel your fitness! If these don’t fit what you’re looking for there are plenty of simple non-motorized models available too. So, do your research first before you head out on your next fitness spree!
We hope you are able to find whatever option works best for you!
