Finding the best treadmill for a heavy person or a tall person can be a daunting task. How do you know which models are built with the quality and power to be worth the investment?
You need your workout to feel smooth and stable at every speed, plus offer the right programs and apps to keep you fully invested in your training program.
We’ve compared the top 10 high-caliber treadmills built for heavy runners. We’ll review the features of each unit and explain each key specification so you can choose your new treadmill for a heavy person with total confidence.
Let’s investigate these outstanding heavy duty treadmills!
Table of Contents
- Bowflex Treadmill 22
- Bowflex Treadmill 10
- 3G Cardio Elite Runner
- Sole Fitness F85 Treadmill
- Sole Fitness F80 Treadmill
- LifeFitness T5 Treadmill
- Sole TT8 Treadmill
- Sole F63 Treadmill
- Life Fitness T3
- XTERRA Fitness TRX45000
- What to look for when buying a treadmill for big, tall, & heavy people
- Which treadmill is best for me
- Best overall for heavy person: Sole TT8
- Best overall for tall person: 3G Cardio Elite Runner
- Runner up: Bowflex Treadmill 22
- Best budget option: Sole F63
- Final verdict: best treadmill for tall and heavy people
1. Bowflex Treadmill 22
- Roomy belt, high weight capacity, broad incline range, heart rate armband included, TV streaming services, screen placed close to eye level
- CHP not listed, large footprint may be too big for some spaces, JRNY app required
- The 22” HD touchscreen console offers a stunning visual experience for enjoying all your favorite streaming services and immersive virtual workouts
- The Bowflex line’s fantastic high-range incline and decline capability enables hyper-realistic hill training
- Comes with a 1-year membership to the JRNY digital workout platform, which offers access to a variety of classes and adaptive workouts, but some users find the platform awkward to navigate
- A heart rate monitor armband is included, in addition to built-in hand grip monitors
- Keep in mind that Bowflex treadmills on the JRNY app for functionality, so you’ll need WiFi to use the unit
Features:
Apps: JRNY Experience, Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, HBOmax
Weight capacity: 400lbs (Great for heavy people)
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12mph
Incline: -5 to 20%
Motor: 4.0 HP
Rollers: 2.75”
Pros: 22” HD touchscreen, -5-20% incline capability, heavy duty build, streaming services
Cons: JRNY membership required to access streaming services, WiFi required to use treadmill
2. Bowflex Treadmill 10
- TV streaming services, high weight capacity, large belt, heart rate armband included
- Smaller screen, CHP and roller size not listed, larger footprint, JRNY app required
- 10” HD touchscreen console is perfect for runners who don’t mind a downsized screen in favor of a more affordable model
- While the incline caps out lower than the Treadmill 22 at 15%, the Treadmill 10 still boasts a wider range than models due to the -5% decline ability
- The Treadmill 10 also comes with the 1-year JRNY membership and heart rate monitor armband, perfect for exercisers who want maximum features right out of the box
- Both Bowflex models feature built-in cooling fans for added comfort in sweaty sessions
Features:
Apps: JRNY Experience, Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, HBOmax
Weight capacity: 400lbs
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12mph
Incline: -5 to 15%
Motor: 4.0 HP
Rollers: Unlisted
Pros: Streaming services, heavy duty build, wide running belt, wide-range incline capability
Cons: JRNY membership required to access streaming services, WiFi required to use treadmill
3. 3G Cardio Elite Runner treadmill
- Speed acceleration boost, extra-long running surface,
- No app integration, speaker quality may be low
- With an extra-long 62” running belt, this treadmill is perfect for tall people with a long stride
- You can connect your tablet or phone to the built-in speakers to enjoy your media in surround sound while you work out, though reviews indicate the sound quality might be subpar
- The speed acceleration boost technology adds 1mph in just 1.5 seconds, making this treadmill stellar for interval training
- The 400 lb weight capacity, high-power 4.0 HP motor, and hefty 3.0” rollers give the 3G Cardio Elite Runner serious lasting power
Features:
Apps: None
Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 62” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15%
Motor: 4.0 HP
Rollers: 3.0”
4. Sole Fitness F85 Treadmill
- Extra-large running surface, 4.0 CHP motor, large rollers
- Sole app may be buggy
- Automatic heart rate control option calculates your target range based on your age
- High-power 4.0 CHP motor is built to run effortlessly at high speeds with stellar lasting power, making the F85 a great choice for avid runners who plan on high-frequency or endurance training
- Includes speed and incline controls on handlebars for safe and easy adjustment during your workout
- Extra-large 2.75” crowned rollers increase the longevity of the belt
- Some reviewers describe the Sole app to as buggy or ineffective, so this treadmill may not be the best choice if you’re looking for seamless app integration
Features:
Apps: Sole
Weight capacity: 400lbs
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15%
Motor: 4.0 CHP
Rollers: 2.75”
Pros: Extra-large running surface, 4.0 CHP motor, large rollers
Cons: Sole app may be buggy
5. Sole Fitness F80 Treadmill
- 3.5 HP motor, 375 lbs weight capacity
- Sole app may be buggy, low quality speakers and fan
- The crowned 2.5” rollers are a little smaller than the F85 rollers, but still large enough to guarantee durable belt performance
- Reviews suggest that the built-in fan and speakers don’t perform well
- More affordable alternative to the F85 for runners who don’t need a maximally heavy-duty model, while still offering a competitive weight capacity and build quality
Features:
Apps: Sole
Weight capacity: 375 lbs
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15%
Motor: 3.5 HP
Rollers: 2.5”
6. LifeFitness T5 Treadmill With Track Connect Console
- Wide app compatibility, adjustable tread firmness technology
- High price range, 3.0 HP motor
- Adjustable deck firmness feature mimics grass, track, or pavement with the patented FlexDeck Select Shock Absorption System, an incredible feature if you intend to have multiple people with different preferences using the treadmill
- Bluetooth connection allows you to sync data with Nike+, Garmin, and MyFitnessPal through the RunFit app, and Apple Health, Jawbone, and Fitbit via the LFconnect app
- Efficient energy saver technology reduces energy use
- The 3.0 HP motor is not as powerful as other treadmills in this price range
- Option to downgrade to the Go console model, which doesn’t have app functionality
Features:
Apps: Syncs data with third-party apps
Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15%
Motor: 3.0 HP
Rollers: 2.5”
Pros: Wide app compatibility, adjustable tread firmness technology
Cons: High price range, 3.0 HP motor
7. Sole TT8 Treadmill Commercial Treadmill
- Decline capability, large rollers, powerful motor
- No folding feature, Sole app may be buggy
- Like the Bowflex models, the TT8 offers decline capabilities for mimicking realistic terrain
- The powerful 4.0 CHP motor can withstand long-term frequent use, as well as high-speed and endurance training
- Sole treadmills offer Bluetooth integration for listening to audio as well as tracking data through the Sole fitness app, though the app shows poor user ratings
- Unlike many other models, the TT8 does not fold up, so this treadmill is not the best choice for runners concerned about saving space between workouts
- Large 3.0” rollers reduce damage to the belt and motor, extending your treadmill’s life
Features:
Apps: Sole
Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Belt dimensions: 22” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: 6 levels of decline, 15 levels of incline
Motor: 4.0 CHP
Rollers: 3.0”
8. Sole F63 Treadmill
- Budget friendly, 3.0 HP motor
- Lower weight capacity, speaker quality may be low
- The Cushion Flex Whisper deck is designed to reduce impact on joints
- At 325 lbs, the weight capacity is a little lower than other models on this list
- The 3.0 HP motor is competitive with other treadmills in this budget-friendly price range, but may not be durable enough for dedicated runners who need frequent high-intensity workouts
- Reviews indicate the built-in speakers are under-powered, so plan to use headphones with this model
Features:
Apps: Sole
Weight capacity: 325 lbs
Belt dimensions: 20” W x 60” L
Max Speed: 12 mph
Incline: 15 levels
Motor: 3.0 HP
Rollers: 2.5”
Pros: Budget friendly, 3.0 HP motor
Cons: Lower weight capacity, speaker quality may be low
9. Life Fitness T3 with Track Connect Console
- Shock absorbing deck design, Bluetooth data sync feature
- Weight capacity is lower than some other models in price class
- The patented FlexDeck Shock Absorption System cushions your knees and joints, reducing the risk of injury and increasing the comfort of your workout
- Like the T5, Bluetooth functionality syncs data with Nike+, Garmin, MyFitnessPal, Apple Health, Jawbone, Fitbit, and RunSocial
- Option to downgrade to the Go Console for users who don’t need to sync their workout data
- The console design places the tablet rack at eye level so you can use your devices with a natural posture while working out
- The ability to create up to 4 user profiles with 3 custom workouts per profile makes this treadmill optimized for family use
Features:
Apps: Syncs with third-party apps
Weight capacity: 350 lbs
Belt dimensions: 20” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: Up to 15%
Motor: 3.0 HP
Rollers: 2.6” front, 2.0” rear
10. XTERRA Fitness TRX4500
- Syncs with third-party apps, handlebar adjustment buttons, 3.25 HP motor
- Xterra app may be buggy
- A budget-friendly option that still features enough motor power to support most home workout regimens
- Features Bluetooth integration with FTMS-enabled third-party apps like Zwift, Kinomap, Tacx, and more
- Speed and incline adjustment buttons are built in the handlebars for safe and simple adjustments mid-run
- Reviews report the main console will not display stats while the Xterra app is active, and that the app may misread the data
Features:
Apps: Xterra app, connects to FTMS-enabled third-party apps
Weight capacity: 350 lbs
Belt dimensions: 20” W x 60” L
Max speed: 12 mph
Incline: 15 levels
Motor: 3.25 HP
Rollers: Unlisted
What to look for when buying a treadmill
- Speed and Incline: Make sure these specifications have enough range to suit your needs, whether you prefer a slower endurance pace, sprint intervals, challenging hills, or simple walking. Keep in mind you’ll be able to increase your speed and incline the more you train, so buy a treadmill that leaves room to grow!
- Belt dimensions: It’s important to pick a belt size that lets you go at your maximum pace without slipping off the unit. A longer, wider belt is better for running as your stride length increases with your pace. You can choose a smaller belt for walking, but pick at least 20” x 60” for running.
- Weight capacity: For safety and durability, choose a weight capacity that is at least 20% over your own weight.
- Motor Power: Motors are rated in either horsepower (HP), which measures a peak, or continuous duty horsepower (CHP), the power the motor can comfortably sustain without burning out under the rated load. Higher horsepower increases the motor life. It also means the belt can change speeds faster for a smoother workout. Choose a minimum of 1.5 HP for walking, 2.5 for jogging, and 3.0 for running. Invest in a high-power motor if you are heavier or train hard and often.
- Roller size: Rollers with a higher diameter reduce stress on the motor and belt, increasing the durability of your treadmill. Shoot for rollers that are around 2.5” or larger.
- Apps and workouts: Apps offer a variety of features, from simple data-tracking services to a wide range of virtual workout options. The right app can increase motivation, workout adherence, and improve the user experience of a treadmill. Consider your preferred app and factor any extra membership costs into your budget.
- Installation: Treadmills with a high-quality build typically weigh upwards of 200-300 lbs. Amazon typically offers expert installation services, but not always on the day your shipment is delivered. If you plan to set up your treadmill yourself, plan for an extra set of hands and a couple hours of time to complete the project.
- Dimensions: Make sure you have a permanent spot to accommodate the length and width of your treadmill. Since a treadmill is a heavy piece of equipment, you won’t be able to move it easily. A folding model can save floor space between workouts, but check if the folded dimensions suit your needs.
Which treadmill is the best for me?
The perfect combination of build quality, exciting features, and a friendly budget is distinct to each runner, but some treadmills from this excellent lineup are truly outstanding in their class. Now that we’ve examined all the elements that create an exceptional treadmill, here are our favorites:
Best overall Treadmill for Heavy Person: Sole TT8
With a broad range of decline-to-incline ability, 3.0” rollers, and a high-powered motor, the Sole TT8’s robust design ensures this heavy duty treadmill will keep up with you for years to come.
Best overall Treadmill for Tall Person: 3G Cardio Elite Runner
There are a few reasons the 3G Cardio Elite Runner is the best treadmill for tall people. First, the running-belt is extra-long (62 inches), so even people who are six feet or taller have plenty of room to stretch out and run. Second, the belt is extra wide, which gives runners plenty of space to move around without feeling cramped. Finally, the incline range is very generous, so tall runners can find a challenging workout regardless of their height.
Runner up: Bowflex Treadmill 22
Between an impressively wide incline range, the JRNY app’s variety of virtual workouts, and the stunning 22” HD touchscreen, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 injects excitement into any exercise routine without sacrificing build quality.
Best Budget Option: Sole F63
If you’re looking for a reliable unit for walking, jogging, and casual running, Sole F63 checks all the boxes for the basic specifications at an unbeatable price.
Final verdict: Best treadmill for tall and heavy people
When choosing the best treadmill for heavy and tall people, it is important to consider a few factors. The first factor is obviously how much weight and height the machine can handle. The second factor is the size of the running surface. A larger surface will be more comfortable for taller people, while a heavier person may prefer a machine with more stability. Finally, make sure to choose a model that has all of the features you need, such as speed settings and incline levels.
Feeling excited to hop on a heavy duty treadmill after checking out all these awesome models? Given the stellar lineup, one of these models must be calling your name. Now you’re equipped with the information you need to choose your dream treadmill and rack up the miles!
