Having a treadmill in your home allows you to squeeze in a workout when you have a few minutes, regardless of the weather. With this convenience comes some drawbacks, such as the space the treadmill takes up in your home. The most compact treadmills are the folding units.
Folding Treadmills
Depending on the model, you can store a folding treadmill vertically, horizontally or both. The ProForm 590T folds and can only be stored vertically. Roll it into a closet or against a wall. Other folding treadmills, such as the Horizon Evolve SG, store horizontally or vertically. If you lay it down, you can slide it under a bed or couch. Most folding treadmills, including these two models, have transport wheels, so you can easily move the machine.
Dimensions
Some compact treadmills fold up to a smaller dimension than other models. The ProForm 590T folds vertically. The deck lifts up and locks into the frame. Even folded, the 590T is 34 inches wide and about 25 inches deep. The most compact treadmills, such as the Horizon Evolve SG, fold to a smaller dimension. The Evolve is 59 inches long and 10 inches tall when folded horizontally. Store it vertically and it is 23 inches wide and 10 inches deep -- smaller than the ProForm 590T.
Drawbacks
To make the treadmill as compact as possible, manufacturers have to compromise on other features. Most folding treadmills have smaller motors to save space and reduce the weight of the machine. The most compact treadmills have smaller running decks. Since the ProForm folds-up vertically, it has a full 20-inch by 55-inch deck. But the more compact Evolve SG has a 17-inch by 45-inch. Taller users or runners with long strides might feel cramped on the smaller running area.
Considerations
Any folding treadmill is more compact than a standard treadmill. Treadmills that fold flat to around 10 or 11 inches are the most compact option. A compact treadmill is great if you have limited floor space. However, you will sacrifice power and running area for compactness. The most compact treadmill is not always the best option, especially if you are a serious runner.
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