Fitness equipment such as a treadmill is a great investment if you are looking to exercise and improve your cardio.
I understand that it can be inconvenient at times to head to the gym or go for a run and that is why I crafted this purchasing guide.
With the help and expertise of my friend Pablo who owns a cardio center in Phoenix Arizona, I will help you find the best treadmill for under $1000.
Without further ado, let us dive into our top 5 list.
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But wait… What is a treadmill exactly?
A treadmill is a fitness device that simulates the effects of walking and running. It allows its users to exercise indoors, at any time of the day, with different difficulty settings.
Mainly designed to strengthen cardiovascular capacities, it is also a helpful tool if you are looking to build muscles in your thighs, calves, and abs.
Built to walk or run at home, you can adjust the speed settings to your own rhythm. Especially used by athletes during their physical preparations, treadmills often have built-in suspensions that are great for your knees.
A lot of users only use treadmills for walking and calorie burning.
Best Treadmills under $1000
1: ProForm 305 CST
The Proform 305 CST is without a doubt this list’s MVP. Whether you are a walker, a jogger or a runner, this device will allow you to reach your goals without breaking a sweat (so to speak).
Ideal for everyday use, this treadmill is best suited for averagely built runners who are looking to get serious.
In terms of features, you will not be disappointed as this model packs a whole lot of them. The ones that I particularly enjoyed while testing this treadmill was his wide variety of workout apps and his space-saving design.
Able to incline up to a 10% angle, ideal for long distance runners looking to prepare for uphill sections.
The motor is rather quiet compared to its power; with 2.5 HP, you can very easily raise the speed levels up to 11Mph
Proshox Cushioning is a technology designed by Proform itself. Replacing the suspensions, this soft layer embedded into the deck area will greatly improve your comfort while running. Its main purpose is to reduce the impact of your training on your body, and more specifically, on your articulations.
If you are relatively tall and make long strides while running, the running belt is long enough and you have plenty of room to exercise in optimum conditions.
The large LCD display is your control panel which lets you choose your workout program and shows you very cool data while you run: Heart rate, time, speed, distance, and calories burned.
The manufacturer warranty is quite nice and simple too. Lifetime warranty on the frame of the treadmill and 25 years on the motor. That is saying a lot about the build quality of this all-around amazing product.
Quick Technical recap:
- Maximum speed: 11 Mph (18 km/h)
- Engine power: 2.5 hp
- Maximum inclination: 10%
- Running belt dimensions: 20″ x 55″ (51cm x 140cm)
- Assembled weight: 190 lbs (86 kg)
- Assembled dimensions: 70″ L x 34″ W x 59.5″ H (178cm x 86.3cm x 151cm)
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs (147.4 kg)
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame | 25 years on the motor | 1 year on parts and labor
Features
- Dimensions: 61L x 36.5W x 73.5H in.
- Frame made from thick steel
- Adjustable incline for varied workout
- Frame folds up for storage
- 18 workout apps built in
The video below shows what we are talking about.
- iFit ready, large backlit LCD display, 16 workout apps, EKG heart rate monitor
- 2.0 chp Mach Motor, 18" x 50" tread belt, 0 - 10 MPH Digital QuickSpeed control, 0 - 10% incline
- Proshox cushioning, SpaceSaver design, integrated tablet holder
- Ipod compatible audio, balanced rollers, 300 lb. Weight capacity
- The ProForm 305 cast is protected with a 5-year frame & Motor Warranty, and a 90-Day parts & labor Warranty
Last update on 2022-01-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Also Read: ProForm Performance 600i
2: NordicTrack T series
This NordicTrack T series treadmill allows you to go from a casual run to a real fitness challenge thanks to his 32 built-in workout programs.
Designed by a coach, these sessions can combine speed, time, burnt calories and even different incline levels.
You can indeed incline the treadmill up to 12% with a simple touch.
Want to burn fat and calories faster? Incline this treadmill’s angle up to 12% with the simple touch of a button.
With a 3.0 HP strong and very quiet motor, this treadmill was built with user-comfort in mind and presents a very large running belt.
Worried about build quality? How about a lifetime warranty on both the frame and the motor? Very underrated added value right there.
The particularity of the NordicTrack C 990 is that you can adjust the cushioning of the surface. From hard to soft, in accordance to your workout needs.
Quick Technical recap:
- Maximum speed: 12 Mph (19 km/h)
- Engine power: 3.0 hp
- Maximum inclination: 12%
- Running belt dimensions: 20″ x 60″ (51cm x 152cm)
- Assembled weight: 260 lbs (118 kg)
- Assembled dimensions: 78.3″ L x 35.75″ W x 56.4″ H (199cm x 91cm x 143cm)
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs (147.4 kg)
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame and motor | 3 years on parts | 1 year on labor
- Bring Home Interactive Personal Training powered by iFit; 12-month iFit family membership included; create up to 5 individual exercise profiles; Access live, studio, and global workouts
- 10 inch HD Interactive Touchscreen Display streams on-demand iFit workouts into your home directly on your treadmill; SMART-Response motor for effective running and cardio training at home
- 0-12% Digital Quick Incline control; 0-12 MPH Digital QuickSpeed control; Your iFit Trainer auto-adjusts your smart treadmill’s speed and incline for an optimized workout that meets your goals
- Innovative SpaceSaver design with EasyLift Assist means your treadmill folds up after your workout for compact, simple storage; 20 inch x 60 inch tread belt with FlexSelect cushioning reduces joint impact
Last update on 2022-07-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3: Sunny Health SF-T7515 Treadmill
This treadmill is a rather simple model, better suited for walkers. This treadmill however, presents a lot of convenient features such as automatic incline and Bluetooth technology.
Very sturdily built and stable, it would be my go-to pick if I planned on exercising very regularly.
One of the highest quality treadmills in his price range, the Sunny Health SF-T7515 Treadmill is packed with a 2.2 horsepower motor along with a wide running belt and a maximum speed of 12 MPH.
Equipped with a rather nit 6″ LCD screen, this model has integrated Bluetooth functions and speakers in order to listen to your favorite playlists while working out.
The manufacturer Sole offers his clients a lifetime guarantee on this product’s frame and motor, as well as a one year warranty on pieces and labor.
Lastly, I want to talk about the Sole Fitness mobile app that I was able to test out. I really thought it was well designed as it allows the end user to easily track and share their fitness targets and achievements.
Quick Technical recap:
- Maximum speed: 11 Mph (18 km/h)
- Motor power: 2.2 hp
- Maximum inclination: 15%
- Running belt dimensions: 20″ x 60″ (51cm x 152cm)
- Assembled weight: 254 lbs ( 115 kg)
- Assembled dimensions: 82″ L x 35″ W x 57″ H (208cm x 89cm x 145cm)
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs (113 kg)
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame and motor | 3 years on parts and deck | 1 year on labor
Features
- 3.0 continuous duty horsepower motor provides a range of speeds including the challenging 12 mph top speed
- Named “Best in its Price Range” by Fit Rated, Run Review, Treadmill Review, and many others
- Bluetooth Audio Speakers – listen to your music from your smart devices through the speakers on the console.
- Integrated tablet holder – allows users the freedom of using their smart devices to watch shows or follow their workout routines
- 15 levels of incline provide the right challenge for runners and walkers of all abilities
- Quick Button Auto Incline
- 12 levels of incline: 0% to 12% incline
- 3 countdown modes: Time, Speed and Calories
- Speed Range: 1 - 8 miles per hour
- Integrated Body Mass Index Calculator - Reference Only
Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4: XTERRA Fitness TRX4500
Next on our list is this XTERRA treadmill TRX4500, an awesome all-around treadmill for all athletes.
One of the best choices you can make for just under 1000$, this model from XTERRA features a very wide 7.5″ LCD screen from which you can choose amongst more than 30 preset fitness programs.
This cardio trainer is suitable for both walkers and runners as you can set the cushioning below the running belt on and off.
Sometimes, you just want to push yourself and give your legs that extra workout. Thanks to a maximum inclination of 15%, this treadmill would give a real challenge, even to the most accomplished athletes out there.
The Bluetooth connection is very handy and gives you the ability to synchronize your phone and use the XTERRA Fitness tracking app and save settings for up to two different profiles.
A very sturdy and durable device, well worth his price ticket thanks to his numerous settings and features. If you are looking for a more advanced treadmill in terms of performances, this should be your best choice.
Quick Technical recap:
- Maximum speed: 12 Mph (19 km/h)
- Engine power: 3.25 hp
- Maximum inclination: 15%
- Running belt dimensions: 20″ x 60″ (51cm x 152cm)
- Assembled weight: 221 lbs (100 kg)
- Assembled dimensions: 77.2″ L x 35.5″ W x 56.1″ H (196cm x 90cm x 142cm)
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs (159 kg)
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame and motor | 2 years on parts | 5 years on deck | 1 year on labor
Features
- Smooth and powerful XTERRA high torque 3. 25 HP motor is covered by a lifetime
- Oversized 7. 5″ blue backlit LCD display is easy to read with all the necessary information – clearly displays program profile, time, speed, pace, distance, calories, incline, and pulse
- Motivating programs include 30 pre-set, 2 custom, 1 heart rate control, and manual
- Aluminum side frame platforms not only look great, but also provide a secure surface to stand
- Built in Bluetooth feature allows wireless access to the XTERRA Fitness App on your tablet to sync and track your workouts, access multiple user profiles, and access alternate tablet workout display options
- Smooth And Powerful Xterra High Torque 3.25 Hp Motor
- Reader-Friendly 7.5" Bright Blue Backlit Lcd - Clearly Displays Program Profile, Time, Speed, Pace, Distance, Calories, Incline, And Pulse
- Motivating Programs Include 30 Pre-Set, 2 Custom, 1 Heart Rate Control, And Manual Options
- Handlebar Mounted Speed And Incline Controls
Last update on 2022-07-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5: XTERRA Fitness TRX3500
Yes, two XTERRA treadmills made this list. That is saying a lot about this brand and its cardio training device expertise!
This XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 is the cheaper version of the one we talked about just above. A nice and all around very well conceived product, this treadmill is a better suit for casual runners and walkers.
Very low-priced for a product of such quality, this is what struck me when I got to test it out. In terms of value for money, it does not get much better than what this treadmill brings to the table.
Well-designed and space savvy thanks to his hydraulic folding frame, I was also pleased by the customizable cushioning that brings so much comfort while running.
With a 12 Mph maximum velocity and up to 12% of inclination, if you were worried about performances, don’t be anymore because this device will deliver!
The TRX3500 being cheaper than the TRX4500, you would expect it to be way less performant. But you would be wrong, the $100 difference between the two devices is almost unnoticed to the occasional runner like me. Although, in comparison to much more expensive treadmills on the market, this TRX3500 from XTERRA is not outclassed and holds his own quite well.
Quick Technical recap:
- Maximum speed: 12 Mph (19 km/h)
- Engine power: 3.0 hp
- Maximum inclination: 12%
- Running belt dimensions: 20″ x 60″ (51cm x 152cm)
- Assembled weight: 214 lbs (97 kg)
- Assembled dimensions: 77.2″ L x 35.5″ W x 56.1″ H (196cm x 90cm x 142cm)
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs (159 kg)
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame and motor | 2 years on parts and deck | 1 year on labor
Features
- Quiet and powerful high torque 3.0 HP motor along w/ its heavy gauge welded steel frame are covered by lifetime warranty. In addition, treadmill comes with a large 20″ x 60″ belt providing enough room to feel comfortable and secure with users of all sizes
- Large 6.5″ Blue Backlit LCD display is easy to read and keeps you updated on all the necessary information – Speed range: 0 – 12 mph, Incline range 0 – 12%, Time, Distance, Calories, Pace, Pulse, and Program Profile
- XTRASoft cushion technology provides multiple points of cushioning throughout the deck support system to provide maximum impact absorption. Deck folds with Lift Assist which helps when lifting up while Safe Drop feature slowly lowers deck for added safety
- Free Economy: Delivery includes appt with a 4hr window. Delivered curbside w/ liftgate. Delivery will not bring product into your home. Typically deliver in 1-2 weeks. Actual date will vary based on your appt. No weekend deliveries
- Standard: Delivery incl. appt w/ a 4hr window. Delivered by driver w/ liftgate, & equipment to get it inside 1st enclosure (garage or front door). No stairs/steps. Typically deliver in 1-2 weeks. Actual date vary based on your appt. No weekend deliveries
- Smooth and powerful XTERRA high torque 3.0 HP motor
- Reader-friendly 6.5” bright blue backlit LCD display – clearly shows program profile, time, speed, pace, distance, calories, incline, and pulse
- Motivating programs include 30 pre-set, 2 custom, 1 heart rate control, and manual options
- Handlebar mounted speed and incline controls
- Built-in Bluetooth connects to FTMS-enabled third party apps like Zwift, Kinomap, Tacx, and more
Last update on 2022-01-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to look for in a $1000 Treadmill?
You want a treadmill, you have set a budget and have no clue what specific aspects of these devices to look out for? Don’t worry, here are the essentials.
The Engine:
This is probably the most important thing to watch out for. An engine that can go the distance with you, in terms of power and lifespan. Engines on cheaper models tend to overheat easily which can cause damage, especially during intense training sessions. My minimal recommendation here would be 2.0 hp.
Warranty
Manufacturers will often grant their clients a longer warranty on their premium products because they know that their treadmill will stand the test of time. As a rule of thumb, the longer the warranty, the better quality the treadmill will be.
Suspension system
Fundamental criteria as well; the suspensions are what will protect your articulations and prevent injuries that could occur while you are training.
It also influences your running comfort and has a direct impact on your body and muscles.
Training programs
The more training programs, the better. You want to have complete freedom over the type of sessions to run. Depending on what aspect you want to work on; if you want to improve, recuperate, test your limits or simply burn calories you need a wide range of programmed workouts.
The Noise
Now, this is a big factor and should be prioritized. Noisy treadmills can turn your fitness routine into a torture session. Cheaper models have a tendency to be rather noisy because of their low-quality motors.
Why a $1000 treadmill when you can get a treadmill for under $200
There are lots of reasons why a $1000 treadmill is worth the investment. Here are the four main ones that I believe are the most significant.
It is a long-term investment
Like with anything in life, when you purchase something, you want it to last. What is more cost effective? A $200 treadmill that will no longer function in 2 years or a $1000 one that will last a lifetime?
Improved performances
A more expensive treadmill will allow you to work on a wider range of things, fitness wise. More settings mean more training depth and difficulties, it also means calories burnt more efficiently and better core strength.
Size of the running belt
Cheaper models tend to have smaller running belts. This has two direct consequences on the customer:
- The running belt is shorter will deteriorate faster and will need replacement very fast.
- After running on a small running belt, I felt very uneasy and was constantly worried I would trip and fall. My focus was more set on where I was actually landing my feet rather than my running performances.
Diversity of programs
While a one-trick-poney can do an amazing job, it certainly is quite appreciated when you workout on a device that presents a wide range of featured training sessions. A good fitness program is all about balance and diversity.
Wrap up
I hope I have been able to answer your treadmills for under $1000 concerns and interrogations. Keep in mind that these models I have presented have overwhelmingly higher all-around review ratings.
Remember to choose the one that fits your particular needs the most. You will not go wrong with any of these treadmills
As for me, I must say that it was quite a nice experiment to do. I rediscovered the joys of running while conducting these researches and actually bought a treadmill for myself.
If you have any questions about this topic, please let me know in the comments below.
