5 Best Treadmill (400 lb Weight Capacity) | For Home Use

This is our review of the Best Treadmill (400 lb weight capacity) in .

When we think of indoor fitness, the treadmill is the first piece of equipment that comes to mind. It is among the safest, easiest and most convenient exercise machines. 

Treadmills can be used by people of different ages and sizes to stay fit. However, a crucial factor to consider before you invest in one is its weight-bearing capacity. And if the weight of the heaviest user in your household is beyond 300 lbs, you should consider buying a heavy-duty treadmill.

A heavy-duty treadmill (400 lbs weight capacity) is designed to provide a safe and effective exercise option for people who weigh more than the average person. 

After extensive research on various treadmills and brands, we consider the Bowflex T10 the best treadmill for a heavy person. Aside from its high weight capacity (400 lbs), it has a wide and long-running surface to ensure users of all sizes can train with it comfortably. The powerful 3 CHP motor and 12 mph maximum speed provide a challenging, intense workout. It also has advanced cushioning technology to reduce the impact on joints, making exercise easier and more enjoyable. 

We do understand you might have specific needs when buying a treadmill for a big person. Here’s a quick look at the options we’ll cover in this article. 

Best treadmill 400 lb weight capacity (Overall)	Bowflex T10 Treadmill
Best treadmill 400 lb weight capacity (Folding)	Sole F85 Treadmill
Best treadmill 400 lb weight capacity (Budget)	Exerpeutic TF1000 Treadmill
Best treadmill 400 lb weight capacity (Seniors)	3G Cardio Elite Runner
Best treadmill with 500 lb capacity	HCI Fitness RehabMill Treadmill

We urge you to go through the entire article so you can select an ideal treadmill. Also, towards the end of the article, we have included a buying guide and answered some commonly asked questions, which can be helpful while making this decision.

5 Best treadmill (400 lbs weight capacity) reviewed

All of our suggested treadmills are perfect for achieving your fitness goals. Nevertheless, we recommend that you seek advice from a qualified medical professional in case of any medical issues.

Bowflex T10 Treadmill – Best Treadmill (400 lb weight capacity) – Overall

Bowflex T10 is a heavy-duty treadmill with great specs. With 400 lbs weight capacity and a generous 60 x 22-inch running deck, this treadmill is great for users of different sizes to train optimally and comfortably.

The deck is also cushioned with Bowflex’s Comfort Tech system. It provides excellent shock absorption and reduces the impact on your joints, making it the best treadmill for heavy use. 

It also includes incline and decline settings, ranging from -5% to 15%. This allows you to choose from various training sets spanning easy, medium, intense and challenging. An outstanding feature is that the incline and speed can adjust automatically even if you are in the middle of a workout.

A 10-inch HD adjustable console with a touchscreen feature lets you monitor and record your training statistics, including distance, time, calories burned, heart rate, and more. 

This Bowflex treadmill also comes with a one-year JRNY subscription. This is a significant asset for many reasons. JRNY can intuitively and intelligently understand your fitness levels and create tailor-made workout programs. You also gain access to many trainer-led videos and can explore different scenic global routes to keep interest high while you train. 

Through the JRNY app, the console also allows you to stream your preferred TV series and movies from popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu while you exercise via WiFi. Do note that subscriptions for OTT platforms are not included with the treadmill and must be purchased separately.

A Bluetooth armband and sensors on the handlebars dedicatedly keep track of heart rate in real time so you can decide the intensity of your workout. 

Although the Bowflex T10 admittedly has a large footprint, it can be folded and stored easily when not in use. 

Why do we love it?	What do you need to consider?
Comes with a decline setting not typically seen in many treadmills	Large footprint when in use
Cushioned deck for better shock absorption	Poor customer support
One-year JRNY subscription
Can use streaming apps

Summary of customer reviews

Customers have praised the Bowflex T10 treadmill for its solid construction and spacious running deck. They also mentioned how easy it was to assemble the product. However, some customers have found the treadmill loud, especially at higher speeds. There are also reports of customer service being unhelpful in addressing these issues.

Sole F85 Treadmill – Best Folding Treadmill 400 lb Weight Capacity

The Sole F85 is a popular treadmill for serious runners and fitness enthusiasts. It features a powerful 4.0 HP motor, which provides a top speed of 12 mph. Equipped with a 60 x 22 inches CushionFlex Whisper deck, it transforms a high-impact activity like running into an experience that is easy on your joints. Additionally, the F85 features 15 incline levels to add challenges to your workouts. 

It comes with 6 standard workout programs common to all Sole machines and 12 customizable programs. Also, the treadmill includes 7 fitness test programs to add more intensity to your workout. These programs are military-standard, designed by the Air Force, Coast Guard and Marine Corps. Hence, multiple users living in the same home can curate their workout experience per their fitness goals. 

A  10.1-inch LCD touchscreen display tracks your workout performance per time, distance, calories, speed, and pulse. Pulse sensors fitted on the handlebars and a chest strap help in heart-rate monitoring. 

The console is loaded with  7 preset apps like YouTube, Netflix, etc., ensuring a high degree of entertainment while you train. The standout feature here is that the console allows screen mirroring as well. This means you can operate your smartphone via the treadmill’s console with absolute ease. Bluetooth connectivity, WiFi compatibility and a USB port form the connectivity trio in this machine. 

Other value-added features include built-in speakers, a device holder, cooling fans, and transport wheels. Assembling the machine is very easy since it comes with straightforward instructions and can be folded when not in use.

Why do we love it	What you need to consider
Foldable	Large footprint when in use
Great warranty
Can use streaming apps
Phone mirroring option

Summary of customer reviews

Customers find the Sole F85 Treadmill very solid and sturdy even while operating on a high incline. Many also commented on the shock-absorbing quality of the belt and how quiet the machine is in use. However, some customers reported issues with Bluetooth connectivity, while a few others were unhappy with the slightly low positioning of the handlebars.

Exerpeutic TF1000 Treadmill – Best Budget Treadmill 400 lb Weight Capacity

If budget is your main factor when buying a heavy-duty treadmill, the Exerpeutic TF1000 is a great fit. It has a maximum speed of 4 mph and a 40 x 20-inch deck, making it ideal for walking and light jogging.

It has a 1.5 HP high-torque motor, which means that the motor’s power increases as you apply more resistance. The treadmill also employs “Quiet Drive” technology to reduce noise while you train. The Exerpeutic TF1000 has two manual incline positions to add variety and intensity to your workouts.  

The frame is sturdy and can safely work with heavy users. Its stable base helps maintain balance while working out without feeling wobbly.

The handlebars fitted on the treadmill are 18 inches long, twice the standard length, for extra safety and support. They are equipped with sensors for continuous pulse monitoring and buttons to control speed easily.

The Exerpeutic treadmill has a functional but small console with an LCD that shows time, distance, calories burned, and speed. 

It folds compactly for easy storage and has transport wheels for effortless mobility. 

However, since it is an economical-range treadmill, certain features are missed, such as a media deck, connectivity and water-bottle holder. Speed and incline options are also limited.

Why do we love it	What you need to consider
Budget-friendly	Less powerful motor
Long handlebars for added safety	Short warranty
Smaller footprint	Limited speed and incline
Easy to assemble

Summary of customer reviews

Customers generally appreciate the Exerpeutic TF1000 treadmill’s affordability and compact size. It is easy to assemble as it comes with simple instructions. However, some customers have complained about its durability, with reports of the belt slipping or breaking after extended use.

3G Cardio Elite Runner – Best Treadmill 400 lb Weight Capacity for Seniors

The 3G Cardio Elite runner is a high-end, commercial-grade treadmill ideal for senior citizens and those undergoing physical rehabilitation. It is designed with the unique Ortho Flex Shock suspension system with shock-absorbing technology. This helps reduce the impact on the joints and provides a pain-free workout.

It is also important to factor in stability when joint health is an issue. The Elite Runner has a solid frame and sturdy build to keep you steady and balanced while you train. 

The running deck is spacious, with the belt thicker than most other treadmills. This provides a more protected set-up for your joints and is suitable for runners of all sizes.

The 3G Cardio Runner features a powerful 4.0 HP motor, which provides a top speed of 12 mph. With this speed and a maximum incline of 15%, this machine is ideal for those who want to take it slow and those who practice high-intensity interval training. 

This machine allows you to create a new workout daily through its range of pre-loaded and customizable workout programs. Depending on your fitness agenda, you can decide on the training plan of your choice.

A multi-purpose console allows you to access and control various functions of the machine. You can oversee your workout metrics and control speed and incline through one-touch buttons. You can choose from the fed-in workout programs or create your own through the console commands.

The machine has speakers with surround sound built adjacent to the console. All you need to do is connect your smart device to the Cardio Runner and listen to music or watch your favourite series while you train. Other features of the treadmill include a bottle holder and a multi-speed fan.

Why do we love it	What you need to consider
Orthopedic-grade suspension system and belt	Expensive
Oversized running deck	Faulty heart rate monitoring
Great warranty

Summary of customer reviews

Customers love the sturdiness of the 3G Cardio Elite Runner and are especially happy with the oversized, cushioned deck. They also spoke highly of 3G Cardio’s customer support and resolution. However, some customers have complained about the heart rate monitor not working efficiently.

HCI Fitness RehabMill Treadmill – Best Treadmill with 500 lb Weight  Capacity

The HCI Fitness RehabMill Treadmill is designed to provide a safe and effective workout experience for those recovering from injury, surgery or illness or anyone with joint mobility issues. It has a maximum user weight capacity of 500 lbs, making it an ideal fit for a wide range of users.

The treadmill features a powerful 4.0 HP DC motor that is quiet and efficient. It offers a maximum speed of 12 mph in increments of 0.1 mph. This makes it suitable for light walking as well as sprinting. 

The running deck of the RehabMill is designed with shock absorption technology that reduces the impact on joints and minimizes the risk of injury. 

The treadmill also has a low step-up height, making it easy for those with limited mobility to get on and off the machine safely. The medical-grade handrails can be adjusted according to the user’s height. All this is a significant advantage for rehab patients.

Another rehabilitation-friendly feature is a facility to reverse the direction of the belt. This is especially helpful while performing exercises requiring walking downhill to strengthen specific muscle groups. 

The console of the RehabMill is user-friendly and includes large, easy-to-read colour-coded buttons to control the working of the treadmill. You can track your workout metrics and select from among 12 preset workout programs through the 10-inch backlit LCD screen. 

The pulse sensors and a contact heart rate program help to monitor your vitals in real time.

Why do we love it	What you need to consider
High maximum user weight capacity	No Bluetooth connectivity
Shock absorption technology deck	No value-added features
Low step-up height and long handrails
Reverse movement of the belt

Summary of customer reviews

Customers love HCI Fitness RehabMill Treadmill as it provides a safe and effective way to improve mobility and fitness. However, few customers have faced issues setting up the treadmill as instructions are unclear.

What to look for when buying a Heavy-duty Treadmill: Buying Guide

Here’s everything you need to keep in mind while buying a treadmill for heavy persons: 

Weight Capacity 

Looking at the weight capacity while buying a treadmill for a heavy person is crucial. They should be strong enough to accommodate a few pounds more than the weight of their heaviest user. 

This is important for two reasons. The first is that it prevents premature wear-and-tear of the treadmill in the form of noises, loosening of parts and wearing down of the belt. Second, a higher weight capacity means the frame is sturdier and can withstand the most challenging workout sessions without wobbling.

Motor 

The motor’s power directly impacts the effectiveness of your workout. Continuous Horsepower (CHP) is a critical metric since it indicates a treadmill’s power. That said, given below is a list of the minimum CHP requirements for a treadmill: 

• For Walking – at least 2.0 CHP
• For Jogging – 2.5 CHP or higher
• For Running – 3.0 CHP or higher

We suggest you opt for a higher-capacity motor, especially if you are on the heavier side of the weighing scale.

Running deck area 

The running deck area should have sufficient space to suit your needs. A wider belt can provide a spacious and more comfortable training experience for a heavy person. Choose machines with belts at least 20 inches wide and 60 inches long. 

Bear in mind that if your tread belt length is shorter than 60 inches, you will not be able to run on it. However, it will be fine for walking or light jogging. 

Tread belt cushioning 

Tread belt cushioning is essential for heavy users because it absorbs shock and reduces the impact on your joints, particularly the knees and ankles. If the treadmill deck is too hard or rigid, it can cause discomfort or injury.

We suggest you get a treadmill which offers good cushioning for long-term use. 

Incline 

An incline essentially simulates walking or running uphill or downhill, depending on the angle you set. Though a zero-incline treadmill can improve cardiovascular stamina and tone your muscles, an incline helps you achieve it in a relatively lesser time frame.  

If you prefer a wider range of challenging workouts, and if your budget fits, consider buying a treadmill with incline/decline.

Warranty 

Your final consideration as a buyer is the product warranty. Since most treadmills become a huge part of your life, looking for a model with an excellent warranty makes sense. Go for a machine that preferably offers long-term coverage, especially for the frame.

Tips to Maintain the Treadmill

It is important to carry out regular maintenance on your treadmill if you want it to last longer. Here are a few ways to do so: 

Lubricate the belt

Too much friction can cause the belt to malfunction. To avoid this, you must lubricate the deck under the belt regularly. While many treadmills can be maintained using standard-issue lubricants, some may require specialized waxes or sprays. Always check the user manual before you perform this activity. 

It is also important to remember never to apply any lubricant on top of the running belt because this could make it slippery and compromise your training experience.

Check alignment and tension on the belt 

It is important for both, performance and safety, to ensure the belt on your treadmill is aligned and has the correct tension. 

Examine the belt for signs of misalignment, if any. The belt must be centered on the treadmill deck without rubbing against the sides. If the belt is misaligned, adjust the bolts at the rear end of the treadmill until it falls in place. 

Replace the belt when needed

If you notice tears or discoloration on your treadmill’s belt, it’s time to replace it. To do this, start by powering off and unplugging the treadmill. Then, remove the end caps and loosen the bolts holding the roller in place. 

Slide the old belt off the treadmill before replacing it with the new one, ensuring it’s centered and tensioned correctly. Re-attach the roller and end caps before you test the new belt by walking on the treadmill slowly. 

Conclusion

If you are a heavy-weighted user, selecting a treadmill that can sustain your weight and maintain joint health is extremely important.

Our top pick for a heavy person treadmill would be the Bowflex T10, owing to its robust build quality and fantastic user experience. Its powerful motor and spacious, shock-absorbing running deck offer comfortable workouts. Also, advanced features like integration with streaming apps and Bluetooth connectivity make it a highly functional and convenient fitness equipment.

FAQs

Is running bad for your knees if you’re overweight?

Your knees take up most of the onus of your weight while in the vertical position. This can be exacerbated by high-impact activities such as running. However, moderate-speed running is beneficial for the knees, even if you are overweight. It helps to strengthen the muscles around the knees, making them more resilient. 

Running can also be an effective way to lose weight and improve overall health if done safely and gradually. 

If you are looking for a low impact workout for your knees and back, you can check out the best Elliptical Rowing Machines or Elliptical Stepper Combo.

How long should an obese person workout on the treadmill?

Though there is no “one size fits all” protocol, the key is to stay active consistently to see the best results. 

Start by walking on your treadmill for at least 15 minutes each day. Increase this after a couple of weeks as you feel more comfortable. Target to reach a steady walking pace for 45 mins. This will help you burn enough calories and progress along your fitness journey. 

If you are low on space, consider getting a treadmill that fits under your bed so you can hit your daily activity goals.

Are Treadmills Better Than Walking Outdoors?

Both treadmills and walking outdoors offer a range of benefits. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and circumstances. 

Treadmills are a very convenient way of pursuing fitness since they are not dependent on weather conditions or time of day. Also, compared to walking outdoors, treadmills are softer on the joints and can be controlled. On the other hand, walking outdoors promotes exposure to fresh air and sunlight, which has many of its own health benefits. 

Can You Use a Treadmill if You Are Over The Weight Limit?

Using a treadmill is not recommended if you exceed the weight limit specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding the weight limit can damage the machine and increase the risk of injury to the user. 

What Extra Features of a Treadmill Will Help Me Lose Weight?

Here are some extra treadmill features that can help with weight loss:

1. Incline options
2. Wider speed range 
3. Preset workout programs
4. Integration with fitness apps 

However, remember that weight loss happens with a disciplined combination of exercise, a healthy diet and a wellness-aligned lifestyle.

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in the article above is for educational and informational purposes only. It shouldn’t be considered health or medical advice. Please consult a doctor or a qualified health professional if you have any medical/health conditions questions.