Folding and Compact Treadmills

5 Folding Treadmills Under $700

If you want to work out on a treadmill at home, but don't want to spend a lot money for it, consider an inexpensive folding treadmill.  A folding treadmill would also be a good choice when you are tight on space.

I have listed 5 treadmills that you should look at.  They are great for basic to moderate usage; meaning look for more horsepower if you are a heavy runner, do some serious pounding, and would use it for hours every day.

Because these are all under $700, you might think you are wasting your money.  This is not true.  You could make a good buying decision by purchasing one of them.  The problem people run into is expecting them to perform like the commercial treadmills at the gym.

The folding treadmills below have many features, are well made and will accommodate basic fitness levels.  They are wonderful for moderate use; basic walking, brisk walking and light jogging - 30 minutes to 45 minutes per day.

So, take a look at these 5.  You might find one that is right for you.

LifeSpan Fitness TR200 Fold-N-Stor Compact Treadmill

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This folding treadmill was voted by consumers as one of the best for less than $1,000.  Many people like it because it stores well under a bed.  It delivers ready to use right out of the box and does not need to be assembled.

See what others are saying about the TR200 Fold-N-Stor Compact Treadmill

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It has 10 incline levels, speakers, a plugin for your iPod and 6 preset programs.  The speed goes up to 8mph. At 8mph you can lightly run on this treadmill.  Not recommended for heavy running.  Overall, it will give you a good work out.

Cup Holder,  Magazine/Book Holder,  Built-in Fan

No.  See photo of cup holder and fan bought and attached separately.

Warranties:  Lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the motor, and 1 year on parts and labor.  User capacity 250 pounds.

Caution

While the majority of people who bought this treadmill have had positive experiences, some have reported these problems:  The treadmill can suddenly stop in the middle of a workout.  Also, at times, the machine releases a burning chemical odor.

This smell is usually due to the belt not being properly lubricated or an issue with the motor. The sudden stopping seems to occur when the machine detects that the belts need lubricating, or the motor needs servicing.

Something to keep in mind is that you are responsible for the maintenance of your exercise equipment.  Maintenance instructions are included.

As long as the treadmill is within the return or warranty period, you should have not a problem getting support.

Limitations

This is not a heavy duty treadmill.  you will encounter problems from overuse, such as those mentioned above. The recommendation is to use it approximately 30 minutes a day.

LifeSpan TR100 Compact Treadmill

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This treadmill requires no assembly and unfolds right out of the box.  It is easy to store.  It is not for marathon training or runners, but will provide you with a good cardiovascular workout, about 30 minutes per day.

See what others are saying about the LifeSpan TR100 Compact Treadmill

Features include 5 exercise programs and built-in speakers.

Warranties: Lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the motor, and 1 year on parts and labor.  User capacity 250 pounds.

Cup Holder,  Book Holder,  Built-in Fan

No

Caution

Here again, this treadmill is great for light use; 30 minutes per day walking or light jogging.  Anymore than that and you can run into problems, such as overheating, burning rubber or motor burnout.

Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill

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The Horizon Evolve has a sleek look with a modern design.  It is ready to go straight from the box and does not need assembling.  It has many satisfied customers.  It will meet your needs if you only need it for walking or light jogging.  It fits nicely into small spaces.

See what others are saying about the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill

Features include heart rate monitor, audio speakers, 2 standard programs: manual and loss programs.  User capacity 250 pounds.

Cup Holder,  Magazine/Book Holder,  Built-in Fan

Has reading rack.  Does not have cup holder or built-in fan.

Warranties: Frame - 10-years; motor - 5 years; electrical components, parts, and labor - 1 year

Caution

The thumb heart rate monitor does not work consistently.  As a backup, some owners have purchased a monitor separately.  Also, this treadmill does not have an incline feature.

Horizon Fitness T101-3 (2012 Model) Treadmill

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Good value for the money.  The Horizon Fitness T101-3 (2012 model) l is a fantastic bargain.  It exceeds expectations,  in regards to what you can get for under $700.  It is larger and heavier than it appears to be; which makes it more durable.  Measures 70.8 x 33.1 x 54.6 inches.

See what others are saying about the Horizon Fitness T101-3 (2012 Model) Treadmill

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It's FeatherLight lift makes it easy to lift, lower and store.  Yes, it has to be assembled.  Takes about an hour to do so.

The heavier and sturdier frame allows for longer workouts.  You can get away with a 45 minute workout,  as opposed to the suggested 30 minutes for some lower priced treadmills.  The deck is wide and long, 20 x 55", which is great for light running.   However, like the others, it is not meant for extensive, high impact everyday running.

Other features include Quiet 2.25 CHP motor, 9 pre-set programs, 10% incline, 10% speed, built-in fan, Sonic surround speakers with MP3 compatibility, pulse grip heart rate monitor and PerfectFLEX deck cushioning for shock absorption.

Warranties:  Lifetime frame and motor, 1 year parts and labor. User capacity 300 lbs.

Cons

• Does not have built in cup or magazine holders.  However,  separate attachments can be purchased.
• Depending on your abilities, assembly can be difficult.

Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill

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The Merit Fitness 725T Compact treadmill is a good value for the money, but it does have to be assembled before use.  The assembly instructions are easy to follow.  It has automatic incline and decline, preset workout programs and an above average heart rate monitor.

See what others are saying about the Merit Fitness 725T Plus Treadmill

You can walk briskly or do a light jog on this treadmill.  Like the others, it is not recommended for prolonged running.  Also, it has a manual incline, which might not be appealing.

Cup Holder,  Book/Magazine holder,  Built-in Fan

Cup holder and place for book/magazine.  No built-in fan.

Warranties: Lifetime on the frame, 2 years on the motor, 90 days on parts and labor.  Capacity 250 pounds.

Caution

Be advised that the 725T does not completely fold up.  The base of the treadmill remains on the floor.  Also, some have found assembling the treadmill to be difficult,  saying the holes and bolts are not lining up.  Do not hesitate to get help with the assembly, as not everyone is good at putting things together.

Overall, these folding and compact treadmills will satisfy three basic goals; convenience of exercising at home, keeping up with your weight loss and fitness goals, and staying within your budget.  They have some of the same features as the more expensive ones.

On the other hand, you must be realistic about your endurance level and the limitations of these treadmills.  Quite simply, advanced fitness buffs and runners should buy models with more power.

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