If a traditional treadmill is too big and bulky for your home gym setup, a folding treadmill is a space-saving alternative. The best folding treadmills are not only compact, they’re also easy to fold and store while offering the same level of performance as traditional treadmills. Oftentimes, you can’t discern the difference between the two, making folding treadmills the ideal choice for optimizing your workouts without sacrificing precious space in your home or apartment.
The best folding treadmills let you work up a sweat, then save space when they're not in use. Small Treadmill For Running
Our fitness and gear experts have reviewed dozens of the best treadmills on the market, and many happen to fold. This is the case for our top pick, the Bowflex Treadmill 22. It excels at offering all the features both serious runners and cardio beginners need, while folding up to save space when we tested it in our own homes. However, if the Bowflex Treadmill 22 is too pricey for your budget, we have five other recommendations that meet our high standards for durability and performance. And if you’re looking for more space-saving cardio machines, check out the best under-desk treadmills as well.
Dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 70 inches | Max user capacity: 440 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -5 to 20%
Unlike so many high-end treadmills that won’t budge once they’ve been installed, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 has the ability to fold away when it’s not in use, making it a perfect pick for runners in need of lots of high-end features. It would be unreasonable to expect a machine of this size and stature to fit underneath a bed or inside a closet, but when the treadmill’s incline is dropped to -5%, the running deck easily folds up to decrease the overall footprint of the machine by more than 40%.
The Bowflex 22 is a beast of a running machine that is well-suited for both serious runners and newbies alike. It can handle up to an impressive 440 pounds of weight (most machines max out around 250 pounds), and it has larger incline angles and speed ranges than virtually every other treadmill on the market. Add in loads of fun features like the ability to take instructor-led classes or watch Netflix and Hulu, plus a smart, intuitive design that allows you to adjust speed and incline without breaking your stride, and you have yourself one incredible folding treadmill. For an in-depth look at the Treadmill 22, be sure to read our comprehensive review that breaks down its features, abilities and shortfalls.
Dimensions: 76.5 x 36 x 59 inches | Max user capacity: 325 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: o to 15%
This may not be the cheapest treadmill on the market, but if you’re a serious runner that requires a treadmill with an incline that can also handle high running speeds, the cheapest treadmills out there simply won’t cut it. Unlike other models in this price range, which tend to be better suited for walking and jogging with minimal or no incline, the Horizon 7.0 AT has a speed range of o.5 to 12 mph and an incline range of 0 to 15% so it’s suitable for serious runners. It features easy-to-use quick dials to adjust its speed and incline, it can handle up to 325 pounds and the design utilizes a three-zone variable response cushioning system to support comfortable, consistent running for miles on end.
The treadmill seamlessly syncs to an iPad or Android tablet so you can connect it to apps like Peloton or Zwift, or run while listening to music or streaming movies. This clever machine also employs convenient thumb dials on the hand grips so you can quickly toggle speed and incline without breaking your stride or fussing around with a clunky console.
Dimensions: 70 x 34 x 55 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 10 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
You’ll be hard-pressed to find another treadmill that offers as much as the Horizon Fitness T101 at this price point. Clocking in at 20 by 55 inches when folded, it’s on the smaller side but still manages to have key essentials like a 2.25 horsepower motor, 10 mph speed capacity and incline angle of up to 10%. Heart rate is measured through the hand grips, and a small built-in fan helps keep you cool through strenuous workouts. Add in an easy-to-use center console, 30 preset workout programs and Bluetooth connectivity that lets you play audio from your phone through built-in speakers, and you have a seriously impressive treadmill for a shockingly low price.
The weight capacity, speed and incline ranges aren’t as impressive as the Bowflex Treadmill 22, nor does this model have a large screen that can connect with streaming services (however, there is a device holder where you can mount your own phone or tablet). But, given that it’s a fraction of the price, it’s probably the best deal you’ll find out there.
Dimensions: 54.7 x 26.4 x 5.1 inches | Max user capacity: 265 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 7.6 mph (with frame), 0 to 3.8 mph (under desk) | Incline range: None
If you want to check off both your step count and workload from your to-do list in one fell swoop, an under-desk treadmill might be the best option for you. The Urevo 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill is a low-profile, slim treadmill that can easily slide under furniture while having the added benefit of converting into a full treadmill with a frame. In this way, you could slide the treadmill under your bed when it’s not in use or you could slide it under your standing desk to get in some steps while you work. With the handy transportation wheels underneath the base, the treadmill can be wheeled wherever you need it to go without too much effort.
This treadmill features a no-assembly design, five layers of a non-slip running belt and an LED display with remote controls. While online ads may describe it as being suitable for “running fast,” know that its 2.5-horsepower motor can only reach speeds of 7.6 mph when you install the frame, so it will suffice for walking and jogging, but not for powerful running. Also keep in mind that the treadmill’s low price and ease of storing mean that it doesn’t offer an incline option. If that’s not a dealbreaker, then it’s a great deal on a small treadmill that’s often discounted through Amazon.
Dimensions: 70.25 x 29 x 44.5 inches | Max user capacity: 250 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 8 mph | Incline range: N/A
The ProForm City L6 lacks a screen, large motor and drastic incline, making it a suitable option for those who only wish to walk. Granted, it still comes with the same tools found on ProForm’s dedicated running treadmills, like interactive training options and tablet connectivity, but because it only reaches speeds of up to eight miles per hour and lacks an incline, it’s a much better option for those taking things slow. And because it folds nearly flat, you can store it under a bed or in a closet without worry.
Dimensions: 78 x 37.6 x 62.8 inches | Max user capacity: 350 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -5 to 15%
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is a smart choice for larger or heavier people who are looking to get into walking, jogging or running. It’s also great for anyone who may need a bit of entertainment to motivate them through their workout. It’s very similar to the Bowflex 22 (our top pick for folding treadmills) but it’s slightly smaller, lighter and quite a bit cheaper too. It can’t handle quite as much weight or move the belt quite as fast but if you’re just getting into walking or jogging, the speed range of 0 to 12 mph will be more than enough to work up a sweat. Push yourself even further with an incline range up to 15%, then push a button to lift up the deck for a space-saving storage solution when your workout is over. Considering it’s nearly $1,000 cheaper than its bigger Bowflex sibling, this treadmill is a serious contender for anyone in need of high-end features that can’t afford to break the bank.
The generous deck supports an impressive 350 pounds and features proprietary Comfort Tech cushioning for a softer, more comfortable impact. Its 10-inch interactive console comes with an LCD display that can access 26 built-in workout programs to burn calories, run further or get faster. It’s also compatible with the Bowflex JRNY subscription program (free the first year, then $149 per year) to access instructor-led classes or stream entertainment through Netflix, HULU and Disney+ among others.
In addition to our coverage of treadmills, the Forbes Vetted gear team has extensively reviewed other core pieces of fitness equipment, including rowing machines and ellipticals. We also have experience with some of the fitness brands featured in this story, particularly Bowflex and Horizon. Forbes Vetted contributor Cassandra Brooklyn, who authored this piece, personally tested the overall pick, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 —in fact, she also wrote a full review on it.
Further, multiple Vetted staffers also lent their fitness backgrounds to this story. Gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who oversees this story, has a background in kinesiology and uses this experience when reviewing each product recommendation. Senior strategy editor Katie Simpson, who edits our gear story updates, is also a certified personal trainer.
Speaking of updates, this story is regularly revised to ensure all the information is accurate and each recommendation is still the best in its class. It was last updated in December 2023 by gear writer Alexandra Garrett.
First, we sought out reputable brands we have experience with, like Bowflex and Horizon. To narrow down the best folding models, we delved deep into the specs that matter most for these space-saving wonders, evaluating factors like ease of folding, stability, motor power, incline options and tech features. We then looked into the experiences of real users who invested in these folding treadmills, poring over online reviews for insights and feedback that contribute to a well-rounded perspective. The final selections were then reviewed by gear editor and fitness expert Cam Vigliotta.
The result? A carefully curated list of the best folding treadmills that effortlessly combine functionality with compact convenience. We also aimed to choose a variety of models to cater to different fitness levels, budgets and space constraints.
While folding treadmills take up less space when not in use, they tend to be as large as traditional treadmills when unfolded. For this reason, it’s important to measure your room and check the dimensions of the treadmill in full before purchasing to make sure it can comfortably fit into your space.
One of the biggest perks of a folding treadmill is how it can be stored in between workouts to minimize its footprint, which is especially beneficial if you live in a smaller home or apartment. Before purchasing your treadmill, check how easy it is to fold and how much space it takes up when stored. Some treadmills also come with transport wheels so you can easily move them into a closet or separate room.
How do you plan on using your treadmill? Are you an avid runner or do you prefer walking up steep inclines? Either way, consider the treadmill's speed and incline range. Most folding treadmills have a maximum speed of 10 mph, and some reach 12 mph—plenty fast enough for most runners. Other models, like the Urevo 2-In-1 Under Desk Treadmill and ProForm City L6, are more suitable for walkers since they top out at around 8 mph.
Similarly, if uphill workouts are a staple in your workout routine, we advise opting for a treadmill with a peak incline of at least 10%, although some, like the Bowflex Treadmill 22, can climb up to 20%.
Safety is a top priority for any workout, but it’s especially important when using a treadmill. Look for built-in safety features like an emergency stop clip that’ll shut down the treadmill’s belt if you trip or fall.
Based on independent testing and in-depth analysis, we consider the Bowflex Treadmill 22 to be the best rated folding treadmill. Its dynamic incline range, max user weight and access to any number of virtual classes pair with a folding mechanism that decreases its footprint by over 40%—an impressive feat for a treadmill of this size. But if the Treadmill 22 is too big or pricey, we also like the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT for its similar specs, and while it lacks a screen, that actually brings down the sticker price.
The mechanism that allows a treadmill to fold introduces additional moving parts, which could potentially lead to wear and tear over time. While reputable manufacturers take measures to ensure their folding mechanisms are robust, there can still be a perception that non-folding treadmills are more solidly built.
It's worth noting that advancements in technology and design have improved the durability and stability of folding treadmills over the years. However, for those seeking the utmost in robustness and stability, especially for heavy-duty or intense workouts, non-folding treadmills might still be the preferred choice.
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I am a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, relationships, home, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Women’s Health, Prevention, Health, Yahoo Life, and more. I have a master’s degree from American University, live by the beach, and hope to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.
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I’m the Forbes Vetted deputy editor, currently living near Detroit. After serving in the Air Force where I operated satellites and planned space launches, I have had a varied career as a tech journalist, wildlife photographer, scuba instructor and podcaster (including co-hosting the popular Battlestar Recaptica).
I am the author of nearly three dozen books about photography, mobile tech, and more; I’ve even authored a digital interactive storybook for kids. I spent eight years as a content lead at Microsoft where I helped to develop Windows Vista and Windows 7. And before joining Forbes Vetted, I contributed to many popular websites including CNET, PC World, How-To Geek and Business Insider.
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As the gear editor at Forbes Vetted, I review and recommend products in the consumer outdoors and fitness spaces, from bikes and tents to treadmills and fitness trackers. As a former commerce editor, copywriter and cultural journalist, my work has appeared in publications like Gear Junkie, Field Mag, REI's Uncommon Path and more. When I'm not writing about gear, you can find me testing it in the field while camping, hiking, running, biking and skiing. Though I currently live in Oregon, I will always identify as a New Englander.
Electric Treadmill For Home I’m an editorial contributor covering all things beauty and fashion. I write about my adventures in testing the latest in skincare, haircare and makeup, and exploring trends in clothes and accessories. I’m not afraid to stick needles in my face or straighten my hair on an airplane (true story!), and I gets a rush from copying the best celeb outfits on a budget. My bylines have appeared in Elite Daily, Hello Giggles, Brides.com, MyDomaine, Byrdie, Well + Good, Parents and more.