If you are interested in purchasing a heavy-duty treadmill this post we will cover a few to keep in mind.
Are High Weight Capacity Treadmills For Heavier Athletes Worth It?
Not every athlete is 5 foot 2 inches and weights 120 pounds. There are athletes of varying sizes you train hard and want a reliable treadmill.
I'm a big advocate of treadmill training and have spent over two decades training on them.
Heavy duty treadmills do require a lot of electricity unlike curved treadmills but they can also withstand more weight.
Heavier athletes need a durable treadmill that is worth their hard earned dollars. I wrote posts on curved treadmills, under-desk treadmills and quiet treadmills you may want to check out as well.
These types of treadmills can take on heavier athletes but a heavy-duty treadmill is like a Ford F150, built to last.
What are the best heavy duty treadmills for heavier people? I've known numerous runners over the years 250 to 350 pounds.
We all come in different sizes and most often times people think of runners as tall and skinny which isn't the case.
If you are just getting into running I wrote a post on how to start running if you are overweight that may of assistance. The key is to take it a day a time.
Patience
Nothing comes overnight but I can assure you your body will adapt and the pounds will melt off. Patience is the biggest hindrance for most runners. Who doesn't want results fast right?
The best heavy-duty treadmill for heavy people is going to be worth the investment. They may not last as long as a curved treadmill but they can carry more weight too. A curved treadmill‘s belt can last up to 150,000 miles.
Each heavy duty treadmill in this post has been hand picked to help the heavier athlete make a logical choice. You don't want a lightweight treadmill that is not built to carry heavier professionals.
Why Are Treadmills For Heavy People Worth The Investment?
One, you want to have a product that is going to stand up to the the test. A treadmill for a heavier person is going to hold up under the pressure.
They have wider belts and a stronger frame then many other treadmills as well.
Each of the below listed heavy-duty treadmills are suited for heavier weight capacities. Our focus will be on athletes between 300 to 500 pounds.
What Is The Best Treadmill For Heavy Runners?
What is the best treadmill for heavy people? Let's take a look at a few you should consider for your training needs below. You don't need to break the bank account to buy one of these.
Always remember it is a one-time purchase. You can always rent to own a treadmill as well. This isn't always the best option for some but for many it is and is worth looking into.
Treadmills For Over 300 lbs
The best treadmill for over 300 pounds is the LifeSpan TR 3000i.
One of the most durable and versatile heavy duty treadmills in the marketplace.
The Lifespan TR 3000i has a max weight capacity limit of 350 pounds.
It is also highly portable and can fold saving you space. The TR 3000i has a 2.75 horsepower motor and also features 15 different adjustable incline levels to choose from.
Fitness Programs
Want to change up your course? There are 21 different fitness programs to choose from with the TR 3000i.
This is our top pick for treadmills for over 300 lbs. It includes a 5 year warranty on equipment parts, lifetime warranty on the motor and frame and comes with a 1-year warranty on labor.
Top Speed? 12 MPH or 5 minute mile pace.
The belt size for the TR 3000i is also extra wide at 20 inches by 56 inches so plenty of room for you to run, walk or jog on.
The Best Treadmill For Over 300 Pounds?
The best treadmill for over 300lbs is the LifeSpan TR 4000i.
It has a more powerful motor. 3.25 horsepower as opposed to the LifSpan TR 3000i.
It also has a large walking belt surface at 20 inches by 60 inches and also features 15 adjustable incline levels.
The 4000i saves space with its manual fold capability. The is the perfect treadmill for heavier runners and athletes.
Reliable Warranties
The LifeSpan TR 4000i also comes with 5 years of coverage on parts and equipment, a 1-year warranty on labor and lifetime on the motor and frame.
The tr4000i electric treadmill by LifeSpan has foldable and portable capability that turns this motorized running machine into a small compact size.
Track how many calories burned, distance covered, heart rate, incline levels, pace, distance and elevation changes to name a few. If you searching for the best heavy-duty treadmill for over 300 pound athletes this is a great investment.
Lastly, the 4000i features iNtel step which monitors and tracks the amount of steps you can.
This is great for tracking your steps and tracking your daily goals.
LifeSpan's Intelli Guard automatically pauses the belt if you step away for 20 seconds keeping you safer.
It has speed increments from 0.5 MPH to to 12 MPH (5 min mile pace).
Another great heavy-duty treadmill for 300 pound runners is the ProForm 705 CST Treadmill.
This beauty supports runners up to 325 pounds.
It has an extra large 20 inch by 60 inch tread belt with a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour (5 minute mile pace).
The 705 CST heavy duty treadmill also boasts a 12 percent incline capability. Burn more calories and rev up your heart rate with this hoss of a treadmill.
The 705 is backed by a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, 1-year warranty on labor and 2-years on parts.
Another great option is considering a curved treadmill. The only catch is it does not run on electricity and you have to make the belt move.
The Lifespan TR 5000i heavy-duty treadmill may not fold but has the strongest motor of them.
It has a 3 horsepower AC motor ready to take on athletes up to 350 pounds.
It has a heavy duty chassis and a strong frame that will help support you as you workout.
Its LCD screen tracks heart rate, distance run, steps walked, incline, speed, program profile and calories burned.
The TR 5000i has a top speed of 11MPH with 15 levels of incline range to choose from. This is the perfect heavy capacity treadmill for heavier runners who are seeking a reliable and powerful heavy-duty treadmill.
It also has an extra wide belt at 20 inches by 60 inches so you have plenty of room to run, walk or jog on.
It is the only non-folding treadmill out of the other two treadmills for runners over 300 pounds listed above.
The AFG Sport 5.5AT Electric Folding Treadmill is a high capacity heavy-duty treadmill that can handle whatever you dish at it.
It is built for runners up to 300 pounds and has a 2.5 continuous motor backed by a lifetime warranty.
Not a bad deal.
Extra Wide Belt
The 5.5AT treadmill has incline ranges from 0 to 10 percent, is easy to assemble and has a wide 20 inch by 55 inch belt.
Plenty of room for you to get you walk, job or run on. This heavy-duty treadmill also features 10 quick-touch keys, has an electric fan, speakers and heart rate monitor capability.
It comes with a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame with a 1-year warranty on labor and parts.
Additional features are surround sound speakers, 3-LED display, EZ fold hydraulic lift system with 9 unique workout programs to choose from.
You have a choice in the heavy duty treadmills you invest in.
This is certainly one to look into and see if it is the best fit for you and your families needs.
Treadmill Weight Limit 400 Pounds
What is the best commercial treadmill for runners at least 400 pounds? Let's cover a few of our top picks below. The LifeSpan Fitness TR5000-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill is an under-desk treadmill that has one of the highest capacities in the marketplace.
You may or may not be seeking this particular type of treadmill but it is still a great option. Perfect for athletes that are 400 pounds of less.
It is a great solution if you do not want to sit in your office and would rather walk while working.
A Treadmill For Heavier Working Professionals
The TR5000-DT3 is fast becoming one of the most popular heavy-duty treadmill options for working professionals.
It is designed to fit under your desk while you work. It has a small, compact size at 63 inches long, 28.5 inches wide and 7.25 inches in height.
The TR5000 features a high weight capacity 3 horsepower motor with a large 20 inch by 50 inch belt. It can be used to either run or walk and is a quiet treadmill.
The TR5000-D3 treadmill 300 lbs capacity motor will be able to withstand anything you throw at it. Built for heavier athletes, this is one of the strongest treadmills in the market.
It also has a twist. It is also one of the best heavy weight capacity treadmills that you can utilize in your office as well.
Additional 400 lb Weight Capacity Treadmill Options
A few more honorable mentions for 400 lb treadmill runners is the Sole Fitness S77 Non-Folding Treadmill.
You get what you pay for.
This is a one-time investment that runners that are 400 pounds or lighter should consider.
You want a heavy-duty treadmill that is going to keep up with what you are bringing to it.
This is most certainly one of the best heavy duty treadmills 2019 has to offer. There is a heavy duty treadmill for people over 400 pounds and this is one of them.
Invest In Quality
If it is going to be in your home or gym it had best be able to handle the stresses you are going to give it. The S77 brings with it club-quality power and features a very powerful 3.5 horsepower motor.
The treadmill has a 22-inch running surface belt makes it one of the widest treadmill belt options we are featuring here at RunDreamAchieve.
It has speeds of 0.5 to as high as 12 miles per hour (5 minute mile pace) with a 400 pound weight limit.
Some of the many workout features that it tracks are heart rate, pace, distance run and walked, step counter and heart rate.
The S77 also boasts a user-friendly LED display screen with a 1/4 mile track feature.
Take your fitness, running and walking routine to a whole new level with this sweet lil pearl. Affordably priced at just under $1900 USD, this is a keeper.
What is great about treadmills for plus size professionals is you can take it easy. You want a treadmill that is going to last and is heavy duty.
If you are an obese person don't get discouraged with your weight. Take each day as it comes and know that there is a support system here at RunDreamAchieve.
Visit our archives page for fitness tips. If you want to know more about my background as a fitness mentor and consultant feel free to visit the about page. I'm here to support you.
Another treadmill that holds 400 lbs of pure drive and determination is the 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill.
Greater Durability
The most robust, versatile and powerful heavy-duty treadmill on this site, period.
It has a 4 horsepower motor that also comes with a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame this behemoth is a runner's dream.
It is one-time investment purchase that will keep up with the demands the user brings to it.
Unbelievable Features
The Ortho Flex Shock suspension is a trademarked feature of 3G Cardio, one of the top makers of treadmills in the world.
It also brings with it an unmatched 10-year warranty on parts as well as 2-years of support for in-home labor for your treadmill.
This is the perfect treadmill for the serious athlete who is 400 pounds or less. Take it to new level of fitness using the 3G Elite Cardio treadmill's pre-programmed courses.
Take confidence in its one-touch speed and elevation settings, customer workout settings.
You can also enjoy surround sound by connecting your tablet. Watch your favorite TV show, movie or listen to your favorite music while you are on the go.
There are treadmills that hold 400 pounds of dedicated runner and then there is the Sole Fitness TT8 Light Commercial Non-Folding Treadmill.
This heavy duty treadmill can hold up to a user that currently weighs 425 pounds.
A great option for the heavier professional seeking a world-class fitness treadmill that will take him or her to the next level.
Reliability
Athletes in the 400 lbs or higher category want something they can rely on.
Belts break, motors go out and maintenance costs go up if you buy a cheap treadmill. You get what you pay for they say. That is true in most cases.
The SoleFitness TT8 Non-Folding treadmill is one of the most powerful heavy capacity treadmills in the market.
This beauty features a 3.25 horsepower motor and an extra wide belt that measures 32 inches in width by 80 inches in diameter.
The treadmill weight 300 pounds so you have a solid foundation to run on. It features 2 custom workout options for users, 6 standard workouts and a 2-hour controlled workout capability.
Now THAT is a lot of fitness options to choose from.
Unmatched Power
That isn't even half of the numerous options this high powered treadmill provides. This treadmill's Whisper Cushion Flex system makes your run extra smooth taking the stress of your ligaments and joints.
The TT8 also features a heart rate monitor strap that has a 99.99% accuracy rating.
Perfect for the 400 pound plus athlete seeking to get the most accurate read on his or her heart rate output.
There is much, much more that this treadmill brings to the table. Click on the blue button below to get more information.
The TT8 is great for big and tall people because of its robust size, functionality and power.
It's running surface alone at 60 inches beats all others by a mile. Taller people have longer strides which makes this one of the best treadmill your hard earned dollars can buy.
Is There A 500 lb Weight Capacity Treadmill?
Yes there is and I have done some research on these. It is the 500 pound professional that fires me up. These hard-working, focused athletes are in it too. Do not underestimate these athletes.
We all come in different shapes and sizes. A 500-pound athlete is just as determined as someone less than 200 pounds.
If you want to invest in a treadmill heavy weight capacity has to come into play. You don't want to waste your hard earned dollars on a heavy-duty treadmill that cannot keep up with you.
Treadmills With 500 lbs Weight Capacity
These heavy-duty treadmills are far more reliable than your average traditional treadmill. but also cost more.
They have a stronger frame and unmatched versatility. Let's check out a few and see if they would not be a perfect fit for your fitness needs.
Please keep in mind these treadmills are not cheap.
They are for the serious investor who desires the very best in high weight capacity workout machinery. They are ultra-premium treadmills for good reason.
Bariatric Treadmill Considerations
Bariatric treadmills are state of the art treadmills with 500 pound weight capacity capability.
Do you have a BMI score above 40? Are at least 100 pounds over your recommended weight?
If so, the medical community state you are a good candidate for bariatric surgery also known as weight-loss surgery.
If you are currently 500-pounds do not lose hope. Don't ever think you cannot get to your goal weight.
Check out overweight running and how to run sexy with more. This is a post that might help you.
Greater Stability & Power
An exerpeutic treadmill will provide the stability and power that you need while you are currently at this weight. Stay focused.
You can do this and get below 400, then 300 on to 200 pounds or wherever your fitness goals lead you.
The most powerful treadmill I could find that was reasonably priced and could support a 500 pound athlete is the Precor TRM 885 Commercial Treadmill.
The maximum user weight for this behemoth is 500 pounds.
High Speeds
It ranges in speed from 0.5MPH up to an incredible 16 miles per hour (under 4 minute mile pace).
Obviously, that is not the goal here. If you are just under 500 pounds this is a great option.
Wrapping Up
You want to always consult a Physician before starting any fitness program. There is heart and desire in all of us.
Athletes and working professionals who range in weight from 300 to 500 pounds are no different than a tiny elite Kenyan. Everyone wants and desires to be fit.
Treadmills are an investment in yourself. The higher end models cost more because they are more reliable, can withstand the extra stress and are durable.
Always purchase quality. There are plenty of cheap treadmills in the marketplace to choose from.
Choose wisely when it comes to investing in one that will last. No one needs to be running at 15 to 16 miles per hour. I am a 2:19 marathoner and I could only last at that speed for a few minutes tops.
How Trustworthy Is A Treadmills Weight Capacity?
If you have chosen to go with one of the treadmills mentioned above always go with top manufactures like SoleFitness, NordicTrack and LifeSpan Fitness.
Find the best treadmills (of which many are listed) and rely on the specs and longevity of the company that builds them.
Always use treadmills at your own risk and don't be in a rush to get fit. The body takes time to adapt to any stress load you place upon it.
Universal Heavy-Duty Specs
This is universal. It doesn't matter if you are 140 pounds or 500 pounds. The body adapts to stress but it cannot be rushed.
A high weight capacity treadmill is always going to cost but also keep in mind it is a one-time investment.
Choose quality and you will get quality back. If you choose cheap expect a treadmill that will not last that long.
If you are at 450 pounds you may want to check out the Woodway Desmo S Treadmill.
This high-powered, heavy-duty treadmill supports users up to 450 lbs and is extremely powerful.
The price is quite high but if price isn't your concern and reliability for years to come is then the Desmo S treadmill is a keeper.
5 Horsepower Motor
This hoss has a 5 horsepower motor, toothed wire reinforced lateral rollers and belts and a top speed of 12MPH (5 minute mile pace).
You can control speed and stop functionality by using the side handrail controls.
The Desmo has numerous capabilities such as incline, start and stop, pace, calories burned, incline, time and the distance you ran, walked or jogged.
This heavy-duty treadmill also has a patented slat belt transportation system that provides unmatched cushion and support while you are in motion.
Why Curved Treadmills Are Your Best Bet
Curved treadmills have the highest weight capacity of any treadmill in existence. I saved this portion for last because it is a style of treadmill so few people know about.
It also requires more out of the user than any other treadmill.
Why?
There is no electricity involved. The user propels the treadmill belt which means you burn more calories, have a higher heart rate and get fitter fast.
Higher Quality
Curved treadmills cost the most and for very good reason.
They do not require electricity, carry incredible weight capacity capability and have near zero maintenance costs.
If you are interested in a heavy-duty treadmill curved treadmills are your best bet. It doesn't matter if you are 150 pounds or 500 pounds they can handle it.
A non-motorized treadmill will always last longer.
The price is higher but would you rather invest and save for the long-term or buy cheap and keep having to spend? Something to consider.
Non-Motorized Curved Treadmill Machines
The Assault Fitness AirRunner is one of the most expensive but longest lasting heavy duty treadmills you are going to find.
The athlete, regardless of weight, is going to see the long-term return on investment (ROI) when choosing this behemoth.
Burn More Calories
If you want to burn more calories, save yourself the extra electricity costs of using a treadmill and get fitter faster this is the one.
Curved treadmills burn up to 30 percent more calories compared to regular flat treadmills.
The belt? Yeah, it lasts up to 150,000 miles before you even have to change it. Try getting that return in investment with any other treadmill. Good luck.
Non-motorized treadmills force you to run on the balls of your feet which force you to run with a more economical running stride.
This is why I am a huge advocate of these treadmills.
The last motor-less treadmill to keep in mind as you make your investment decision is the Woodway Curve Cordless Treadmill.
There is no maximum speed on this gem.
One of the best things about cordless treadmills is they save you money.
They do require you to work harder. It is you that propels the belt. There is no electricity.
150,000 Miles?
The belt will last up to 150,000 miles at a minimum. This cannot be matched by any other traditional treadmill.
The Slat Belt system the woodway curved treadmill provides allows for near frictionless movement.
The investment is higher for curved treadmills but always remember how long they will last and how much money you will save.
No motorized parts means no need to spend extra money on additional parts. If you are a gym owner these types of treadmills are one of the best investment you can make for your fitness gym or personal use.
Conclusion
In this exhaustive overview of heavy-duty treadmills I have been as extensive as I could be. I hope these treadmills will give you some ideas and help you make the educated purchase of your choice.
Always remember, you get what you pay for. Quality will cost but will also last the longest.
Heavy-duty treadmills have motors and some do not as discussed here with curved treadmills.
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