UK Gym Taps Freemotion Fitness as Part of $10M Renovation

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Kingsmead Pools & Fitness will open this autumn with a full suite of Freemotion equipment, including connected fitness content from iFIT

With the U.K. fitness industry experiencing an increase in memberships and a market value that has risen 9.7% since 2023, one of the region’s sports and leisure management organizations has committed to delivering an “unrivaled” health and fitness experience in Canterbury, England.

Fusion Lifestyle, the parent company of Active Life, has forged a partnership with fitness equipment provider Freemotion Fitness, part of iFIT, as part of an £8 million ($10.3M) renovation project that the sides say is “set to redefine the leisure landscape in Canterbury.”

The enhancements will begin at Kingsmead Pools & Fitness to deliver Freemotion’s latest cardio fitness equipment and designated zones for personal fitness and small group fitness with Genesis DS strength machines.

The upgraded gym is planned to open this autumn.

“We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Freemotion, one of the U.K.’s biggest and most innovative names in health and fitness, to power our new look gym,” Fusion Lifestyle’s operations director Richard Allan said. “The new fitness equipment we’ll be installing will be some of the most innovative, immersive and inclusive available right now in the U.K., helping all our members achieve their fitness goals.”

credit: Fusion Lifestyle/Freemotion Fitness

Blake Fletcher, U.K.. and Ireland country manager at iFIT and Freemotion Fitness, gave some insight into what members will experience, such as the ability to work out with more than 250 trainers or climb to new heights with iFIT’s immersive technology. Gym members can either load their own workouts using Google Maps or select from over 18,000 of iFIT’s workouts, which include cycling in the Bahamas or climbing to Mount Everest base camp. 

“We’re looking to hyper-personalize the exercise experience, including embracing the power of AI, and customers at Kingsmead Pools & Fitness will be among the first in the U.K. to benefit from that,” Fletcher said.

Freemotion and iFIT have invested in the power of AI, unveiling a digital coach that interacts with users via text message for personalized fitness support.

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Gym Visits Stay Elevated in Q2 as EoS, Crunch Lead the Way

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24 Hour Fitness, Life Time and Planet Fitness also saw sizable increases in foot traffic compared to last year while Orangetheory and LA fitness saw more modest increases

If it seems like your gym is more crowded, it’s not your imagination.

Gym visits in the U.S. remained elevated year-over-year in Q2, with high-value, low-price (HVLP) brands EoS Fitness and Crunch Fitness leading the way, with foot traffic increasing 23.4% and 21.4% compared to the second quarter of 2023, respectively.  

The findings come from Placer.ai, a location intelligence company that uses machine learning and data science to generate foot traffic analytics. As Placer.ai notes, fitness has shown to be inflation-proof, theorizing that rising costs across the board may have boosted gym attendance, with consumers choosing to make use of their gym memberships rather than spend money on outings.

EoS Fitness, the ‘Better Gym. Better Price’ HVLP fitness chain, opened five new gyms in four states in the first quarter of 2024 and aims to open over 250 by 2030. EoS is reportedly seeking $100 million to support its growth strategy.

Crunch Fitness is also flourishing in the HVLP space, with around 2.5 million members systemwide as of early 2024 and expansion planned both domestically and abroad. Helping to grow Crunch Fitness is Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, who partnered with CR Fitness Holdings, the largest operator of Crunch Fitness franchise locations, to expand the brand in Texas.

Following EoS and Crunch is 24 Hour Fitness, which saw a 9% increase in visits compared to Q2 2023. Earlier this spring, the gym chain announced a multimillion-dollar investment at four of its locations in the San Francisco Bay area, which includes adding new cardio and strength training equipment and turf areas for group exercise zones..

Luxury fitness and lifestyle operator Life Time, with an average membership due of nearly $190 per month, also experienced an 8.9% increase in visit growth. Life Time founder and CEO Bahram Akradi has pointed to the brand’s sky-high retention numbers amid investment in areas such as pickleball and small group training. 

credit: Placer.ai

Planet Fitness, which has a new CEO and rolled out its first membership price hike in 26 years this summer, saw a 6.2% increase, while group fitness giant Orangetheory Fitness saw a 2.4% gain.

LA Fitness, operating under parent company Fitness International, saw a 1.3% increase. Fitness International acquired XSport Fitness this month in a deal that will Xsport’s 35 gym locations in New York, Chicagoland and Virginia be rebranded under one of Fitness International’s four brands, including LA Fitness.

Placer.ai’s Q2 2024 white paper can be viewed here. 

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Dorian Yates Says Hormone Doctor Turned Him Away in the ‘90s: “You Know More Than I Do” 

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The cat’s out of the bag. For bodybuilders like Dorian Yates, the landscape of physique sports has shifted dramatically. Yates had his competitive heyday in the 1990s and helped to usher in the “mass monster” era of bodybuilding — thanks, in no small part, to Yates’ indulgences with anabolic steroids.

In a Jul. 10, 2024 episode of Yates’ podcast, Shadow Talk With Dorian Yates, the six-time Mr. Olympia winner recounted some of his experiences in the ‘90s, including an anecdote about being turned away from an endocrinologist in the United Kingdom.

[Related: Best Supplements for Bodybuilding]

“‘You know more than I do,’” Yates recalled hearing from his doctor while spinning the tale to podcast guest Derek of the More Plates, More Dates YouTube channel. The duo went a little deeper on Yates’ experiences with anabolic steroids and how they impacted bodybuilding culture “before the Internet was everywhere.”

It’s an illuminating conversation and worth listening from start to finish. In the meantime, let’s take a look at what Yates had to say about anabolic steroid culture early in his career. 

Editor’s Note: Some of the quotes in this article have been lightly edited for clarity.

Bodybuilding & Steroids in the ‘90s: Dorian Yates

As Yates tells it, anabolic steroids in the early and mid ‘90s were something of a frontier. “I don’t have experience with endocrinology, of course,” he told Derek. “But I know a lot about bodybuilders who used large amounts of steroids. In my day, we didn’t have hormone specialists all over.” 

Yates offers a story of attempting to visit with a general practitioner for oversight and advice about his health once he began his bodybuilding career. The doctor was reportedly dismissive of Yates’ concerns and questions until seeing him during the opening ceremony of the 1985 World Games in London.

The World Games are a multi-sport athletic event held every four years for sports that aren’t showcased at the Olympic Games.

Bodybuilding was held at the World Games from 1981 to 2009. Yates did not make it to the podium when he competed in ’85.

I was the only bodybuilder I knew that was actually getting blood tests [in the ’90s].

Dorian Yates

[Related: Best Pre-Workout Supplements for Bodybuilding]

Continuing, Yates described his experiences with seeking medical supervision over his hormone levels. Per Yates, the aforementioned endocrinologist confessed having no experience in managing the health of a bodybuilder who was using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). 

“We did basic diagnostics; blood pressure, cholesterol, liver and kidney function,” Yates said. “Sometimes the numbers weren’t perfect, and my doctors didn’t suggest medication.”

When Is It Safe To Start Taking Steroids?

Yates and Derek’s conversation naturally veered into how public perception — as well as recreational usage — of anabolic steroids has shifted since Yates’ heyday. When prompted, Yates revealed that he always had a practical perspective on PED use.

“[Steroids were] something I did for my career,” said Yates, “not because I had a negative self-image.” Yates mentioned to Derek that he fully stopped taking steroids at age 35 after 12 years of use, citing concerns relating to health and general longevity. 

[Related: Best Multivitamins for Men]

“Nowadays, I try to warn people about what they’re getting into,” Yates continued, offering a bit of sobering advice to beginner bodybuilders. “I don’t think it’s worth taking steroids unless you want to compete.” 

Referring to hobbyist lifters, Yates’ words were plain and candid: “When your self-worth is caught up in being that guy…” he said of athletes who cannot divorce themselves from the perception of their physiques. 

“…it almost becomes an addiction. If [steroid-induced muscle gain] was making you feel good, when you come off, it’s going to be a rough ride.” 

More Bodybuilding News

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The Chest Workout “Trick” Chris Bumstead Is Using To Win the 2024 Olympia

Dana Linn Bailey’s 5 Tips for Building Muscle Without Lifting Heavy

Featured Image: @thedorianyates / Instagram

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Planet Fitness Price Hike Likely To Benefit Gym Industry, Analysts Say

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The popular gym brand raised its base membership fee for the first time in nearly 30 years, a move that figures to set a new pricing floor for the industry amid inflationary pressures

A new CEO and a membership price increase could rattle even the most confident of companies, but Planet Fitness, inching closer to 20 million members, is fortified in its position as the big box gym leader in the high-value, low-price (HVLP) space, analysts say, predicting that the price-hike move should turn out well for Planet and the gym industry as a whole.

The last 12 months have been somewhat turbulent for Planet Fitness, including the startling ousting of former CEO Chris Rondeau last September, macroeconomic pressures including inflation and rising interest rates influencing new construction timelines, and, perhaps most notably, a viral social media moment-turned-boycott that led to concerns of membership cancellations, 

Planet Fitness has described 2024 as a “transition year” for the brand. The big-box gym leader made good on that promise in May, announcing that for the first time in nearly 30 years, it would increase the price of its Classic Membership, to $15 per month from $10.  

The news of the Classic card price jump didn’t come as a surprise — the HVLP gym chain disclosed earlier this year that it was experimenting with different price points  — but confirmation of the move saw PLNT shares rise 5%.

Planet Fitness, now with Colleen Keating as its new CEO and in a quiet period ahead of Q2 earnings, appears off to a solid start. 

Athletech News spoke with several leading financial analysts to gain insight into the gym giant’s new pricing model and what it may mean for Planet Fitness, its franchisees and the fitness industry as a whole. 

Use It or Lose It: The Hidden Benefit of Planet’s Price Hike 

Considering that price is a significant factor in gym cancellations (one recent survey found that 41% of fitness consumers who ditched their memberships did so because of the cost), a price hike has to be carefully considered and artfully implemented, especially in the HVLP space, which prides itself on low-priced memberships. 

Considering the economic environment to which consumers have become accustomed — analysts agree that a $5 increase for new Planet Fitness members won’t send fitness consumers running for the hills, but it could boost member retention.

“The consumer has experienced significant inflation in every aspect of their life, and we don’t believe a $5 increase in their monthly membership will be a surprise to them or materially weigh on their decision to join a gym or not,” Piper Sandler managing director Brian Smith said.

As BMO Capital Markets managing director Simeon Siegel points out, current Planet Fitness members may be inclined to stick with the “Judgement Free Zone” gym chain due to the price increase. Pre-existing Classic card holders are grandfathered into the $10 per month price for the duration of their membership — a “price for life” model that Planet Fitness says it will highlight.

“If executed well, a price increase could boost retention by creating a disincentive to churn and thereby lose your lower price,” Siegel said.

It’s a consideration that Piper Sandler managing director Abe Thomas shares while adding that the new $15 price point still represents a “significant value” for the consumer.

“We do not expect it to meaningfully increase member churn or significantly lower the total number of members at any given location,” Thomas said. “In fact, the price increase may improve churn at existing locations, as current members will be grandfathered into the legacy $10 pricing, and they will not want to give that up.”

credit: Planet Fitness

Baird analyst Jon Komp assesses that Planet’s recent price increase will have a moderate impact on new member retention, but a positive overall effect on total membership dues, same-store sales and four-wall profitability.

“There are variables such as how often Planet may still use a $10 promotional price point during certain windows that may influence how much of the price increase is captured on a net basis,” Komp said.

A Premium Membership Boost?

With consumers increasingly keen on recovery modalities and amenities, Planet’s $24.99 per month premium Black Card membership – with perks such as access to massage chairs and HydroMassage beds — could become even more enticing to prospective members when compared to the Classic membership.

Notably, over 60% of Planet Fitness members join as Black Card members — a number that could increase thanks to the new basic membership pricing. 

“Maximizing penetration of the full-amenity, higher-price-point Black Card membership is a top priority for every Planet Fitness franchisee, and we expect increased Black Card levels to be an added benefit of the Classic price increase,” Smith said. “By narrowing the price gap between the Classic membership and Black Card membership, it will encourage consumers to opt for the higher priced Black Card option.” 

TD Cowen analyst Max Rakhlenko believes that overall, the price increase will be a big positive for Planet Fitness, also seeing the potential of the Black Card.

“The value proposition of the Black Card becomes meaningfully greater once the Classic card price goes up,” Rakhlenko said.

Franchisee Perspective 

The move to raise the Black Card price should please Planet Fitness franchisees amid elevated build-out costs and increased operating expenses that have weighed on unit-level margins and return profiles for new-unit development.

Komp says the move to raise pricing ties to the decision to restore franchisee unit economics, which had been impacted most significantly by building cost inflation.

“There are some nerves about raising pricing while many consumers are feeling the pinch of persistent inflation, but we’re hopeful that risk is mitigated by Planet’s strong value proposition,” he added. 

credit: Planet Fitness

Will The Competition Follow Suit?

There’s no doubt that the HVLP gym space is heating up, with competitors like Crunch Fitness, Blink Fitness and more making membership-enhancing moves.

While most brands across the HVLP category have maintained $10 entry point pricing in order to compete with Planet Fitness, Planet’s price increase could allow them to follow suit and enhance their own unit-level margins.

Siegel succinctly sums it up: “A price increase by the industry’s dominant operator could trigger others to follow the leader.”

Rakhlenko believes there will be a mix of adjustments in the wake of Planet’s price hike.

“I think there are certainly some that are going to follow Planet,” he shared. “That said, I think the better operators don’t actually need to — they’ve actually done a really nice job of gravitating members higher up the membership spectrum, and only a minority of their members are paying that $10 price point today. So there’s not a need for them to increase the starting price, especially if they can lean in and market that – ‘Hey, we have a $10 price point, which is now below Planet’s $15.’”

As Komp points out, other gyms likely have faced pressures impacting unit economics. 

“In this light, we would expect the industry over time to maintain a similar price gap vs. Planet, meaning Planet likely raised the floor for the industry,” he said.

And, as far as the fitness industry is concerned, Planet’s target demographic — Gen Z — is showing up in full force.

“The data that we’ve seen — including TD Cowen’s monthly proprietary surveys — younger members are healthier, Gen Z is joining gyms at a higher rate, and it’s certainly one of the big factors that are driving really long-term enthusiasm for the industry,” Rakhlenko said. “Younger members are seemingly healthier, and as long as these trends continue, it’s going to be a nice boost longer term.” 

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Momence Aims To Make Running Ad Campaigns a Breeze for Fitness Brands

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Momence Ads Manager helps gyms, studios and wellness centers launch ad campaigns without having to navigate confusing platforms or invest in a media agency

What once took days – even months – of thinking, planning and execution may now only take a fraction of that time. 

Momence, a software provider for fitness studios, gyms and wellness centers, has launched Momence Ads Manager, a program that helps fitness businesses launch ad campaigns without having to navigate confusing platforms or invest in assistance from a consultant or media agency. 

Advertising isn’t just helpful, but necessary for business growth, Momence argues. It’s also something most fitness businesses can struggle with. 

“We’ve heard first-hand from owners that they’ve failed to run ads themselves and so they either stop advertising altogether or leave it to consultants or media agencies to run their ad campaign for them,” said Vojta Drmota, co-founder and CEO of Momence. “All because the Meta Ads Platform is just too complex or difficult for owners to understand their return on investment.”

credit: Momence

Momence is stepping in to better address that vital task. Momence Ads Manager takes existing customer and lead contact data and uses it to establish lookalike, inclusion, or exclusion audiences. Doing so allows brands to attract customers that are similar to their existing customer base and therefore more likely to join. 

“This is truly game-changing for owners as they’ve spent so much time curating this unique community of members and now they can easily attract more like-customers by leveraging the data from inside of Momence,” Vojta said. 

credit: Momence

According to Momence, it’s the “only software provider in the fitness and wellness industry to offer owners the ability to easily build out, launch, optimize, and report on the performance of their ad campaigns all inside a single platform solution,”

“This means for the first time you can truly understand if your marketing efforts are worth optimizing or doubling down on,” Vojta said.

This innovation represents another step in Momence’s mission to become the fitness and wellness industry’s top all-in-one software platform. It recently helped Atlas Yoga and The Studio, a pair of boutique fitness brands, grow exponentially, spurring additional and proactive lead generation while establishing top-notch customer service. 

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How To Become the Top ‘Personal Trainer Near Me’

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Dominate local search efforts and ensure you’re the first choice for nearby potential clients

Today, being a personal trainer extends well beyond the four walls of the gym and into the world of online visibility.

With the majority of people (potential clients) turning to Google to find “the best personal trainer near me,” standing out in local search results can significantly impact your business growth and client base. 

Here’s a guide to becoming the top local personal fitness trainer through strategic online optimization.

Understanding Local Search Dynamics

Let’s start by exploring the fundamentals of local search—a fundamental aspect of digital marketing that focuses on optimizing a business’s online presence for a specific geographic area. This is particularly critical for personal trainers, whose client base is often local.

When people search, they generally use queries like “personal fitness trainer near me” or “best fitness trainer in [City Name].” Search engines use these to pull up geographically relevant results, bringing local search engine optimization (SEO) into play. Local businesses that match the search terms and have strong relevance and authority end up being prioritized.

By understanding and leveraging these dynamics, personal trainers can truly target their local market, attract clients and build a stronger online presence – an SEO trifecta.

Key Factors Influencing Local Search Results

Search engines routinely update their algorithms to provide the most useful results, which means you must maintain an optimized and up-to-date online presence. 

Consider the following key factors when preparing to capture attention in your vicinity.

Proximity: How close you are to the searcher. Search engines rely on user location to deliver results, making it essential to accurately register a business location. 

Relevance: This refers to how well your gym or studio fits the search query. Including detailed descriptions, relevant keywords and updated business categories in your online profiles will upgrade your relevance. Examples of good keywords are “strength training in [City]” or “[City] conditioning coach.” 

Prominence: This is determined by how well-known your business is in the local area. Factors like positive online reviews, links from reputable sites and local media mentions all contribute to higher prominence.

credit:  PhotoMIX Company from Pexels

Steps To Becoming the ‘Personal Trainer Near Me’

Once you understand what influences local search, take steps to secure your online real estate. Ensure your name, address and phone number information is accurate in your detailed Google business profile. 

Remember the basics: add a professional photo, and choose the best categories that represent your training niche. Categories to consider include personal trainer (most direct), fitness center, health consultant, wellness program, physical fitness, nutritionist and sports coach. 

Phil Cook, a personal trainer and local SEO expert from Clever, Missouri, notes that many trainers are often surprised to discover existing profiles automatically generated by Google.

“Google business profile will extrapolate data from across the web,” Cook says. “If there is enough activity across social media platforms, Google may have very well already created a profile for you, and people may have already been adding reviews – good or bad – and miscellaneous content to your profile. And you may have no clue about it and cannot scrub it until your profile is verified.”

Cook says to check if you already have a presence, after logging into your Google account, go to the menu at the top right and see if you have a Business Profile Manager icon, or go to google.com/maps and search for your name or business.

“If you see something along the lines of: ‘Verification Required’ you’ll want to verify before someone else does,” says Cook. 

Consider your website a digital extension of your training ethos. It should be mobile-friendly, quick to load, and loaded with local keywords, like “fitness trainer [Your City],” to attract nearby clients.

Frequently post content on social media that includes relevant hashtags like #DallasPersonalTrainer and #DallasStrengthCoach.

And don’t forget about blog posts! Localize the content by referencing Dallas-specific events (or wherever you are), locations, and the unique aspects of training in your climate. Engage with online locals by participating in community fitness challenges and always tagging your location.

Finally, reviews can make or break your local SEO reach. Ask satisfied clients to leave positive feedback on your Google business profile and other review sites. Respond to all reviews professionally, showing appreciation for positive feedback and addressing any concerns raised in negative reviews.

According to MindBody, a software-as-a-service company that provides cloud-based online scheduling software for fitness and wellness businesses, 82% of adults look at reviews before making a purchase some of the time, and about half that percentage look at reviews before purchasing every time. 

Mindbody recommends responding to negative reviews quickly, within a day or two. Yelp recommends 24 hours, noting that replying within this time frame boosts the chance of a customer upgrading their review by 33%.

credit: Henri Mathieu-Saint-Laurent from Pexels

Networking in the Community 

Just because you’re trying to boost your online presence doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t keep close one-on-one ties. A strong local network can significantly boost your visibility. Participate in local fitness events, workshops, festivals and seminars. 

Collaborate with local health and wellness businesses to cross-promote services. Being an active member of the local fitness community enhances your reputation and search visibility.

Here’s another opportunity, by the way, to show off the investments you’ve made in your fitness certifications and continuing education. In addition to having access to resources made available by your certifying organization, you can improve your appeal in search results by highlighting your specialized skills and certifications on your site, Google business profile and social media. Leave no stone unturned! 

Becoming the most sought-after personal fitness trainer in your local area requires a blend of online savvy, community engagement and continuous professional development. Start today by reviewing your online presence and making the necessary adjustments to dominate your local search rankings.

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Here’s the Best Place to Buy a Treadmill, According to Our Experts

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With all due respect to machines all across the cardio deck, the treadmill is the largely undisputed ruler of cardio machines for a reason. It’s functional, it’s convenient. You can use them for relaxed exercise that barely feels like a workout or you can use them for high-intensity training that will leave you dripping with sweat. The only question that remains while you’re building your home cardio palace is: What is the best place to buy a treadmill?

Of course, you’re not just investing in any treadmill — you’re choosing amongst the best treadmills, so it stands to reason that you should invest in a quality retailer or other company to get the goods. Here at BarBend, we’ve tested over 40 of the greatest treadmills money can buy, so we know all about the best places to buy them. Read on for treadmill-buying advice from certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CSNC, CPS to find out where to make your next cardio purchase.

Where Should I Buy a Good Quality Treadmill?

Before you purchase a treadmill, there’s a lot you’ve got to consider. How much free space is available for your treadmill? How much money is in your treadmill budget? Do you have fitness goals that require your treadmill to have certain features that go above and beyond the norm? The answers to these questions can determine whether you turn to Best Buy, Life Fitness, or even if you search on Craigslist!

Regardless of the factors that guide your selection, Amanda Capritto CPT, CSNC, CPS — one of our BarBend fitness equipment experts — affirms that a treadmill is an excellent piece of exercise equipment to have in reserve for a rainy day (or any day, really).

“Even if you don’t use a treadmill daily, it’s a great item to have for instances in which you can’t or don’t want to walk or run outside, such as in bad weather, when the sun sets earlier in the day, or you can’t get to a safe route,” insists Capritto. 

Reputable Treadmill Retailers

You’re ready to buy, but you don’t know from where. When you’re considering what makes a treadmill manufacturer or retailer reputable, there is a degree to which your ethics may influence your choices about equipment providers. Depending on what you consider to be important about a company and its business practices, you may choose to consider any or all of the following things:

A wide selection of available treadmills to evaluate

A reputation for product quality and durability

Many thorough and thoughtfully written positive reviews

Evidence of sound and ethical environmental or labor practices

Whether the retailer or manufacturer is BIPOC- and/or women-owned

The length and quality of the warranties offered 

Convenient maintenance or product delivery options

Every manufacturer or retailer listed here has a reputation for some combination of quality, variety, service, and convenience. You’re encouraged to thoroughly research each treadmill source to identify which of them offers the package that most closely aligns with what you prioritize.

NordicTrack

Known for making some of the greatest treadmills on earth, NordicTrack is also owned by iFIT Inc. This means that NordicTrack treadmills arrive with iFIT personal training software capabilities contained within their hardware. 

Our tester walking at tallest incline on the NordicTrack X22i

Check out our full NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill Review.

SOLE Fitness

The best SOLE treadmills may either be folding or non-folding treadmills, which all include access to the SOLE+ training app. This provides instant access to hundreds of training programs, making this a solid choice for newer athletes who want to be guided through their workouts.

Our tester using the incline on the Sole F80.

Check out our full Sole F80 Treadmill Review. 

Horizon Fitness

Horizon offers a range of treadmills from budget models to an upscale studio series. All models come with intuitive features, like dials that make it very easy to modify speeds and inclines via the hand controls. 

Our tester runs on a Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

Check out our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.

ProForm

Also owned by iFIT, ProForm treadmills have the same iFIT compatibility as their sister company NordicTrack. ProForm treadmills also have a reputation for comparatively lower price points and uniform foldability.

Our tester unfolding the ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill

Check out our full ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.

Life Fitness

Life Fitness offers industrial-grade treadmills that tend to be the pinnacle of durability. On the other hand, they are also prohibitively expensive, with prices for new models usually starting at $3,000 and reaching as high as $12,000.

Echelon

Echelon treadmills usually occupy the mid-range of treadmill price points, with their products typically falling between $1,000 and $2,000, coming with easy foldability and moderate durability.

BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer, Kate Meier, walking on her Echelon Stride.

Check out our full Echelon Treadmill Review.

Sunny Health & Fitness

Sunny’s treadmills offer tons of options that can fulfill any requirement or price range, from a $179 manual treadmill and simple walking pads that are short on conditioning and tread, to premium treadmills that exceed $3,000 each. They are also a great place to find some of the best under-desk treadmills when you’re on a budget.

Costco/Sam’s Club

Whether you’re shopping online or in their brick-and-mortar stores, Costco and Sam’s Club frequently have at least one or two high-performing treadmills that may be just slightly outdated, but available at steep discounts for their members. This makes these stores a great place to look for some of the best budget treadmills.

Amazon

If you’re looking for an abundance of cheap home treadmill options to choose from, Amazon offers a little bit of everything, including remote-controlled under-desk treadmills. Sometimes, they’ll run you in the multiple thousands; but other times, you can find something more accommodating to a tighter wallet.

Our tester on the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400.

Best Buy

Best Buy is known for offering high-quality treadmills that might be one or two generations old at discounted prices. Moreover, they provide you with an opportunity to view the treadmills personally before you make a purchase — not something we always get in such an online world.

Craigslist

Can you actually get good treadmills on Craigslist? It’s possible— you’ll just want to exercise due diligence. Make sure you’re asking to see the brand names on the item and a full array of photos if they’re not already featured. You want to know, as best as possible, exactly what you’re buying. 

So if you’re not fussy about cosmetic damage and maybe a little wear and tear, Craigslist can help you find people who are hoping to unload worthwhile treadmills at steep discounts, often just to free up space.

OfferUp

If you want access to people in your vicinity who are getting rid of their fitness equipment (or anything else, really) at steep discounts, OfferUp is one of the best places to turn to. Just be prepared to go pick up the treadmill yourself.

Our tester on a treadmill in a garage gym.

As with Craigslist, you can’t always be absolutely certain which model you’re getting, even if you can see the brand — the owner may just not remember, or may not share the information. If you’ve got needs around the machine’s weight capacity or other specs, you’ll want to be extra diligent about finding out which model you’re bringing home.

Treadmill Buying Guide: What to Look for When You’re Buying a Treadmill

In principle, the treadmill is a simple piece of gym equipment. It’s a cardio machine with a running surface that moves, either powered by a motor or with propulsive power generated by the user — aka, a manual treadmill. 

In practice, a whole lot is going on within the treadmill in terms of its size, its functionality, who it was designed to service, and how it came into existence. All of these can factor into which treadmill you bring home.

Price

The price of a treadmill reflects everything from the abundance of features and workout programs it offers to its size and durability, even extending to the reputation of its manufacturer. That said, just because a treadmill has a higher price does not mean it’s automatically the right treadmill for you. Also, honing in on a treadmill with a lower price tag may save you from paying for flashy features you simply don’t need. 

Our tester using a steep incline on the NordicTrack Commercial X22i.

“Budget-friendly treadmills specifically provide access to exercise for A) individuals with a lower income who know they are ready to commit to exercise and B) individuals at any income level to test the waters in this exercise category without spending thousands of dollars on a machine they may end up not using,” explains Capritto.

Check out our list of the best treadmills under $1,000.

Environmental Impact & Labor Practices

If you’re environmentally conscious or careful about only supporting companies with relatively ethical labor practices, there are still treadmills that can meet your standards. For instance, SportsArt treadmills are made domestically and include products that capture the energy generated by your workout and convert it into utility-grade electricity. In layperson’s terms, they make pretty eco-friendly machines. Less brand specifically, manual treadmills also reduce environmental impact simply by not requiring electricity to work.

Horsepower

An often overlooked treadmill characteristic is how much torque it can consistently deliver to your training, and how long it can sustain its uppermost speed. You wouldn’t expect a minivan to match a sports car’s acceleration, maneuverability, or top speed. Similarly, you also want to ensure that your treadmill can handle every element of the workout routine you intend to put it through. 

A person running on a treadmill.

“For the motor, continuous horsepower (CHP) is ideal, and runners who train at a high volume will want to look for a CHP of 3.0,” explains Capritto. “If you’re looking to save some dough, you’re likely going to be shopping for treadmills with a CHP of 1.75 to 2.5, since a lower-powered motor is less expensive. Still, these numbers will allow you to walk and jog a few times a week without issue.” 

Running Deck Size

All of the attractive amenities in the world won’t put you at ease if you’re constantly wary of stumbling or falling off of it. This is why the dimensions of your treadmill’s running deck are so important. Running on a treadmill of sufficient length and width will allow you to train without the nerves that you might trip, stumble, slide, and injure yourself.

The belt deck of the AssaultRunner Elite.

“People who intend to run or sprint on their treadmill should look for a running deck of at least 60 inches in length,” advises Capritto. “Walkers and joggers can get away with shorter decks, unless they are really tall individuals. Fifty to 55 inches can usually cut it for walking and light jogging. Regardless of length, a comfortable width is between 16 and 20 inches. A padded deck can be helpful for individuals with joint pain.”

Check out our guide to the best cushioned treadmills.

Incline Capabilities 

No matter what attracts you to the idea of training on an angle, walking or running on an incline adds to the challenge of your workouts. This can shorten your workout and make it more efficient while improving your running economy and greatly increasing leg muscle activation. (1)(2)

Our tester on the Sole ST90.

“If you’re training for something specific, like a hike or an outdoor 10K, you’ll probably want incline capabilities to better mimic the outside world…You will likely need to shell out additional cash for a machine that can mimic downhill running,” says Capritto.

Programming & Tech

You might be able to determine if your workout is challenging you enough simply by feeling your way through it, but why should you need to when you have access to precise workout information? Many modern treadmills have Wi-Fi connectivity and streaming training programs like iFIT. And, even if you think you don’t need it, the ability to binge your favorite Netflix series from your treadmill’s touchscreen may help to ease you through your workouts on some days.

A NordicTrack treadmill screen in the testing center.

“Look for, at a minimum, an LCD console that displays your current speed, time elapsed or time remaining, and distance covered,” says Capritto. “Additional perks include Bluetooth compatibility so you can get a more accurate heart-rate reading on-screen (the handheld optical heart rate monitors on treadmills are notoriously inaccurate).”

Warranty

You need to be very careful when evaluating a treadmill warranty — different treadmill parts are likely to have different warranties. On average, a treadmill will have a frame warranty of about 10 years, a motor warranty of 5 years, and a warranty on parts ranging from 3 to 5 years. You’ll need to pay close attention, though; some great warranties last a lifetime, but others may last as little as just a single year.

Reviews

It’s reassuring to see that the treadmill you’re eyeing has a slew of four- and five-star reviews, but to determine their true value, the devil is in the details. For example, if you’re planning to place your treadmill in your carpeted living room, you must find at least one review that evaluates how that treadmill performs on a carpeted surface. 

Our technician demonstrates how to fix a Nordic treadmill.

Of course, here at BarBend, our team of experts aims to give you exactly that kind of information for all of the hundreds of pieces of equipment we test and review.

Brand

It’s quite possible that your dream treadmill can come from a small, white-label sporting goods manufacturer that you’ve never heard of before. All the same, there’s a reason most of the major treadmill brands have been able to develop and sustain themselves over time. Usually, this is owed to some combination of quality, reliability, and ingenuity. Therefore, if you lean toward the treadmills offered by the major brands first, no one will blame you.

Availability

It’s often said that the best workout is the workout that you’re actually going to do consistently. Well, when it comes to treadmills, the best treadmill is going to be the best treadmill that you’re willing to use that is actually available. While you may be holding out for your favorite manufacturer to produce more of your favorite model so that you can own one, you’re probably better off with the next-best model that you can bring home and start running on today.

FAQs: Best Place to Buy a Treadmill

Which treadmill brand is the best?

Many well-known treadmill brands have stood the test of time; you probably can’t go wrong with any of them. However, whether you intend to buy one of the best NordicTrack treadmills, one of the best ProForm treadmills, the most budget-friendly Echelon treadmill, or some other notable brand, you should make sure that you’re acquiring all of the treadmill features you’re looking for. Think about what you value and prioritize as a shopper — is cost, space, functionality, or eco-friendliness at the top of your list? That will inform the brand that’s best for you.

How much should you pay for a home treadmill?

Many factors can influence the final price of your home treadmill, including the treadmill’s age and features, or whether it was previously owned. That said, you can expect to spend anywhere from around $199 for a tiny under-desk treadmill to $999 for a model like a ProForm Carbon TLX, to upwards of $2,000 for a NordicTrack Commercial 1750 or a Sole F80. Other popular models may cost $3,000 or more.

Are more expensive treadmills better?

A high price may signify that a treadmill is full of the most modern features, or it may be a reflection of a treadmill’s sexy brand name and trendiness. Yes, a more expensive treadmill may be better in some respects, but you’ll want to be careful not to overpay for features that you have no intention of ever using.

Which folding treadmill is best?

As with all types of treadmills, the best folding treadmill will be determined by what’s best for you, your budget, your space availability, etc. The best foldable treadmill for you can be determined by many factors. It may be a simple matter of your budget and your experience level. However, the number of features may be more important, or even something like whether it’s simply intended to be used as a walking treadmill and isn’t meant for achieving max speed.

Is the treadmill available at Best Buy?

Best Buy has several treadmill models available for you to evaluate and purchase if you are so inclined. Click here to see a list of the best treadmills available at Best Buy.

References

Ferley DD, Osborn RW, Vukovich MD. The effects of incline and level-grade high-intensity interval treadmill training on running economy and muscle power in well-trained distance runners. J Strength Cond Res. 2014 May;28(5):1298-309. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000000274. PMID: 24172721.

Franz JR, Kram R. The effects of grade and speed on leg muscle activations during walking. Gait Posture. 2012 Jan;35(1):143-7. doi: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2011.08.025. Epub 2011 Oct 2. PMID: 21962846; PMCID: PMC3262943.

The post Here’s the Best Place to Buy a Treadmill, According to Our Experts appeared first on BarBend.

Milani Cosmetics Launches Makeup Collaboration With Top US Athletes

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Team USA stars including Sabrina Ionescu are promoting Milani’s top-selling makeup spray ahead of the Paris Olympics

Makeup is more than just an aesthetic choice. It can also be an athletic one.

Ahead of this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, Milani Cosmetics has launched a rebranding campaign for its well-known Make It Last Setting Spray and this time it has some help from members of Team USA and the WNBA.

Team USA gymnast Jordan Chiles, WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu, Team USA volleyball player Chiaka Ogbogu, and weightlifting champion Mattie Rogers are partnering up with Milani to promote the setting spray on social media and streaming TV platforms. 

“This campaign marks Milani’s first-ever partnership with athletes and we are absolutely thrilled to join forces with Jordan, Sabrina, Chiaka and Mattie and for this launch,” said Mary van Praag, CEO of Milani Cosmetics. “Because our award-winning Make It Last Setting Spray lasts for up to 24 hours, it provides the invisible staying power that helps makeup endure through anything, whether that’s a regular workday and night out, or hours of endurance training, a game in 90-degree heat, a killer floor routine or a photo-finish moment.”

Milani Cosmetics released its Make It Last Setting Spray, the top-selling setting spray in the U.S., back in 2017.  The moisture-rich glycerin and 2% antioxidant-rich niacinamide formula boasts 24 hours of waterproof and sweatproof wear. 

Makeup setting spray is typically used to prepare, hydrate, and “set” makeup to leave the skin dewy and glowing. By blending powders and cream products, sprays attempt to provide a lasting finish. 

Milani isn’t the only cosmetic company to cater products to athletes. In April, Athletic Cosmetic Company launched several waterproof and sweatproof products specifically for use during exercise. 

Jordan Chiles, a member of the USA Women’s National Team, is a 2020 Tokyo silver medalist, 2022 World team champion, and now a face of the Milani brand. In a recent social media post, Chiles promoted the Make It Last spray, calling it a necessary product for her sport. 

“My secret to serving face & sticking the landing?” Chiles wrote in her caption. “Getting set with Make it Last Setting Spray so I can focus on the finish. This sweatproof & waterproof formula with up to 24HR wear keeps my makeup as flawless as my routine.”

Jeremy Lowenstein, Milani’s chief marketing operator, says this collaboration comes just in time for the cultural spotlight on female athletes. 

“This is a golden age for women’s sports across the globe and we couldn’t be more excited to partner with this diverse group of top American athletes at this moment,” Lowenstein said. “The ‘Face Set. Mind Set.’ campaign highlights the connection between preparing ourselves physically and mentally for the day and the idea that when our face is set, our mind will follow. Each of these inspiring champions embodies determination, endurance and confidence and we’re proud to partner with and count them as part of our passionate Milani community.”

The post Milani Cosmetics Launches Makeup Collaboration With Top US Athletes appeared first on Athletech News.

Sweat440 Flips the Script on Scheduling With Classes Every 10 Minutes

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Offering a combination of cross-training, strength training and HIIT, Sweat440 is pioneering a new approach to class scheduling that’s proved beneficial for members and franchisees alike

Sweat440 squeezed into the packed boutique fitness studio market in 2018 with a disruptive business model that puts a new spin on accessibility and flexibility. With classes starting every ten minutes, the brand’s 40-minute workout takes the scheduling and time limitation barriers – the top reasons consumers cite for not working out – out of the equation.

Founded by professional trainers Matthew Miller and Cody Patrick, Sweat440 is a combination of cross-training, strength training and HIIT that plays out with a virtually led workout across four fitness stations, each lasting ten minutes in duration, with a new set of members joining the cohort every ten minutes. There are one to two coaches on the floor at all times to offer guidance and ensure correct form.

Cody Patrick (l) and Matthew Miller (credit: Sweat440)

This ‘so simple it’s genius’ format combines the motivational mindset of small group training with the convenience of workout times that best fit each individual.

Allowing for significantly more members to come through the doors every day, the high turnover low overhead model screams profitability.

Franchisees See Massive Potential

Athletech News spoke with Sweat440 franchisee Nicholas Marco, who launched his Ocean Township, NJ, location in 2022, and a second New Jersey location just a few weeks ago.

“I originally tried Sweat440 while visiting friends in Miami,” says Marco. “It was a high energy, lively, sweaty, fun time and I was instantly hooked.”

Marco has been around franchises his whole life as his father, Physical Therapist John Marco, founded Hand & Stone Massage in 2004 and grew it to 600 locations in the U.S. and Canada. Marco himself came to own eleven locations, and a couple of years ago, decided to branch out into other brands.

“At this point in my life, I’m the guy who walks into every business and thinks, would this be a good investment? Is this something I’d want to own? After taking multiple Sweat440 classes during my visit to Miami, I was hooked and I had significant interest in buying into it.”

credit: Sweat440

When asked what about the Sweat440 workout was so addicting to him, Marco explains:

“When you walk up to the door the music is already bumping and the dopamine starts to spike,” he notes. “You walk right into instant energy that’s a day-changer. You jump into the workout and with virtually no interruptions or breaks, you come out forty minutes later having done a total body, results-driven sweaty workout. What’s not to love?”

Saving Marriages & Spurring Profitability  

Of the every-10-minute start time concept, Marco says it’s genius.

“I have a set of new parents who told me – in these words – that Sweat440 saved their marriage,” he says. “The option of so many start times and the compact workouts allow both parents to get out of the house and exercise daily, while other gyms and studios just do not have that flexibility.”

Marco says he feels good about being part of an amazing concept and is happy he got into the Sweat440 brand early on.

“Coming in at this point, I hope to be able to have an impact on the brand’s trajectory,” he says. “That’s the kind of culture Cody and Matt want to foster as well – very collaborative.”

Another thing he’s excited about is the short runway to profitability.

 “We were profitable within the first two months, and the day we opened we had 275 members which is crazy,” he says. “We accommodate 200 to 400 members in and out of the doors daily and no other studio could support that.”

He attributes this to Miller and Patrick’s robust marketing approach, preparedness and guidance.

“I am pleasantly surprised to see how much support I am getting as a franchisee and the amount of marketing materials and guidance at this stage in the game,” Marco says. “This tells me that as the brand grows and more studio doors open the resources will continue to get better.”

And when he put the marketing to work, Marco says he could see the gyms in the surrounding area becoming more and more relevant with their marketing, a telltale sign that he was winning in the area.

He also says the business model makes ownership uncomplicated.

“With Hand & Stone we can have fifty employees at one spa,” he says. “With Sweat440 it’s easy to manage. There’s not even a phone in the studio, all calls go to a call center.”

In terms of his future vision as a Sweat440 franchisee, he sees big growth.

“I started by committing to three locations and I’m actively looking for my third spot,” he says. “I can see the brand taking over New Jersey and I want those studios to be mine. I also want to continue to be an advocate and voice for the brand overall.”

The post Sweat440 Flips the Script on Scheduling With Classes Every 10 Minutes appeared first on Athletech News.

The 5 Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees of 2024 (Tested by Trainers)

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If you struggle with achy joints and bad knees when you’re just trying to get your sweat on, you’re not alone — one in three Americans deals with knee pain at some point in their lifetime. (1) To keep you trucking even when your gear’s bent out of shape, the best exercise equipment for bad knees can have you reaping the benefits of cardio with low-impact, non-weight bearing, or cushioned options.

While it’s best to avoid high-impact training when your knees are giving you trouble, continuing with a low-impact cardio routine — or starting one — can help take stress off your joints, decrease inflammation, manage weight,  improve your mood, and strengthen your heart. (2)(3) Our team of testers picked out the best home gym equipment to support those with knee pain, including an exercise bike, recumbent bike, elliptical, rower, and yes, even a cushioned treadmill, too, in the list below.

The 5 Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees of 2024

Best Recumbent Bike for Bad Knees: Sole LCR

Best Treadmill for Bad Knees: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

Best Exercise Bike for Bad Knees: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

Best Elliptical for Bad Knees: Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Best Rowing Machine for Bad Knees: Concept2 RowErg

About Our Expert

This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer, CrossFit Level 1 instructor, and BarBend editorial team member. She reviewed the research we cite and the equipment we listed to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations. She also tested some of the products herself.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees

The BarBend team includes certified personal trainers, former collegiate athletes, and lifelong fitness fans, and we’ve personally tested over 200 pieces of exercise equipment in our search for the best tools for your home. Utilizing the BarBend equipment testing methodology, we scored each profile in categories like portability, durability, and ergonomics on a scale from 1 (not impressed) to 5 (we love it). We focused on the following areas of interest when testing and selecting the top machines for your home gym.

Ergonomics and Adjustability: Exercise equipment that features ergonomic builds can help allow a comfortable workout experience for a wider range of users while limiting knee and joint pain. We opted for machines with ample adjustments to provide the most appropriate range of motion to support those with bad knees.

Comfort: In addition to cushioned running decks and padded seats, we made an effort to include options for exercise machines that were clearly designed with comfort and accessibility in mind. That can include step-through frames and roomy pedals.  

Weight Limit: Individuals who carry excess weight are more likely to struggle with knee pain. (4)(5) Due to this, we looked for user weight limits between 300 and 500 pounds. When this weight limit wasn’t met, we made sure to note it.

Best Recumbent Bike for Bad Knees: Sole LCR

Sole LCR Exercise Bike

Sole LCR Exercise Bike

For those who like to stream workout videos while they train, this recumbent bike is a great pick. It comes with access to a free library of training videos and you get 40 resistance level options.

Shop Sole

Specs

Price: $1,799.99

Weight Capacity: 350lbs

Dimensions: 60” H x 56” L x 29” W

Weight: 152lbs

Screen: 10.1” touchscreen

Pros

Mirror your phone to the built-in touchscreen 
Step-through frame
Padded recumbent seat and backrest
Cons

Pricier bike than competitors
SOLE app needs work
Small screen size

“Recumbent bikes make cycling accessible to people who have injuries and/or mobility limitations,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. The Sole LCR, one of the best recumbent bikes we’ve tested, provides a whopping 40 levels of resistance and a padded seat and backrest to put users in a more reclined position during their cardio session, thus reducing strain on the back, hips, and knees. Ergonomics, adjustability, and customizations scored a 5 out of 5 with our tester.

Those with achy joints may also appreciate the step-through frame design. On upright exercise bikes, users need to kick their leg up and over to mount, but getting situated in this recumbent model is more like sitting down in a chair.  

Once seated and ready to cruise, the HD touchscreen provides access to pre-loaded apps and screen mirroring from your smartphone. “The touchscreen is really easy to navigate,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer. “You can mirror your phone’s screen here, which is great if you want to watch content from an app on your phone.” Tech capabilities and conveniences scored a 4.5 out of 5. 

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However, this 10.1-inch touchscreen, smaller than the average 16- to 20-inch touchscreens we’ve seen, may be too small for some viewers.

Though you can view nearly any training app on the touchscreen thanks to its screen-mirroring capabilities — a big reason why it made our list of the best Peloton alternatives — you also get access to the free SOLE+ app. “There are classes you can take with the app, but it has a way to go before it’s at the same caliber as something like iFIT,” said our tester. “The class selections are limited, and sometimes it’s hard to understand the instructors.” Conveniences 4 out of 5.

There’s a lot to love with this knee-friendly recumbent bike, but these features come at a cost. At $1,799, it’s on the higher end of recumbent bikes, which tend to cost between $600 to $1,500. Regardless, our tester still gave value a 4 out of 5 score, declaring that “this is the best recumbent bike I’ve tested.” 

Best Treadmill for Bad Knees: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is made for the tech-loving runner. This high-tech treadmill features a touchscreen monitor that can tilt and rotate, and offers automatic incline, decline, and speed adjustments based on the workout you choose. 

Shop NordicTrack

Specs

Price: $2,299

Weight Capacity: 400lbs

Dimensions: 65” H x 80” L x 38” W

Weight: 340lbs

Screen: 14” touchscreen

Pros

Incline and decline capabilities
iFIT-integrated touchscreen
Runners Flex cushioning on deck helps reduce impact
Cons

Touchscreen only allows iFIT streaming
iFIT access requires a monthly subscription fee
Takes up 21 square feet of space

We think the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is one of the best treadmills for bad knees, as it features Runners Flex cushioning that can help absorb impact on your landing while also providing a stable push-off. With a powerful 3.5 CHP motor and incline and decline capabilities, the 1750 earned an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 with our testers — the highest score out of over 50 treadmills we’ve tested.

BarBend reviewer Jarrett Evans, a collegiate strength and conditioning coach, appreciates the shock absorption on this model. “It felt like running on a gymnastics floor,” he said. Adjustability and ergonomics scored a 5 out of 5.

We’d also recommend checking out the below video review with BarBend tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eR4J8l0_4Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review (2022) — BEST Of The Best? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0eR4J8l0_4)

The 14-inch HD touchscreen is integrated with iFIT, which provides guided scenic trail runs, walks, and hikes, route-building capabilities with Google Maps, and a SmartAdjust feature that can automatically adjust your speed, incline, and decline.

“I took a class in the Hawaiian Endurance Series on iFIT and when I was running down this gorgeous ridge, it was cool having my decline automatically adjust as I saw myself running downhill,” said BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, who gave tech capabilities and dynamic training a 5 out of 5 score.

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However, this subscription will cost you an additional $39 a month. Both Meier and Herod believe a subscription is necessary to making the most of this treadmill. “iFIT is what makes this treadmill worth the price. Without an iFIT subscription, the machine isn’t really worth it,” said Meier. 

This app is the only programming the HD touchscreen will stream, so if you’re interested in running with Peloton or another app, you may want to look elsewhere.

While we think this machine is one of the best treadmills for beginners, it does take up 21 square feet of floor space — about the same area as a twin-sized bed. (6) “The main drawback for this machine is its footprint… so definitely ensure your space can fit it,” notes Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. Footprint and portability scored a 3.5 out of 5. 

Read our full NordicTrack 1750 Commercial Treadmill Review.

Best Exercise Bike for Bad Knees: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14

The ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14 is a high-tech, high-quality indoor bike. It has a 14” HD touchscreen display that swivels 180 degrees to accommodate workouts both on and off the bike. It comes with a three-year free subscription to iFit and features silent magnetic resistance making it a great option of in-home use.

Shop ProForm

 

Specs

Price: $1,404

Weight Capacity: 250lbs

Dimensions: 57” H x 55” L x 23” W

Weight: 116lbs

Screen: 14” touchscreen

Pros

Mirror your phone to the built-in touchscreen 
Step-through frame
Padded recumbent seat and backrest
Cons

Pricier bike than competitors
SOLE app needs work
Small screen size

Take the pressure off your knees and joints by saddling up on the ProForm Studio Bike Pro 14 — one of our picks for the best exercise bikes for small spaces — giving you access to a Dual-sided SPD clip and strap pedalscardio routine without stress-inducing weight-Free 3-year iFIT subscription with purchasebearing exercise. This bike features a

14-inch HD touchscreen to stream scenic rides and spin classes via the integrated iFIT app. Tech capabilities, adjustability, ergonomics, and value scored a 4 out of 5.

While iFIT typically costs $39 a month for a subscription, the purchase of this bike includes a free three-year membership. “ProForm’s Pro models basically cover the cost of iFIT and provide the equipment for free, allowing a more affordable option for those looking to take spin classes from home,” mentioned our tester, a certified personal trainer. They scored value a 4 out of 5.

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What’s more, the 14-inch HD touchscreen can tilt and pivot, allowing for an ergonomic viewing experience on the bike or off of it, making it easy to take advantage of iFIT’s yoga, bodyweight workouts, and recovery options. However, “Some may find the 14-inch touchscreen to be too small,” mentioned our tester, especially when compared to the 21.5-inch touchscreen found on the Peloton Bike. Tech capabilities scored a 4 out of 5.

One benefit of the smaller screen, though, is the bike’s footprint and portability, which scored a 4 out of 5. At 116 pounds and taking up 8.78 square feet of floor space — a little smaller than a standard coffee table — our tester had no problem moving this bike around. (6) However, there’s only a 250-pound user weight capacity, lower than the industry standard of 300 pounds.

Dual-sided pedals allow you to clip in with SPD cycling shoes or slip your tennis shoes into straps, and you’ll receive a pair of 3-pound dumbbells to add some upper-body work to your routine. However, if you’re looking to track your heart rate, you may be disappointed by the lack of pulse sensors or a heart rate monitor.

[Related: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 Review]

Best Elliptical for Bad Knees: Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

The Horizon EX-59 Elliptical can be a great starter machine thanks to its approachable price tag, intuitive controls, and dual-handlebar design. Its 18-inch stride length and 300-pound weight capacity can also make it accessible for many athletes.

Shop Horizon Fitness

Specs

Price: $999

Weight Capacity: 300lbs

Dimensions: 64.5” H x 74” L x 25” W

Weight: 145lbs

Screen: 4.5” LCD display

Pros

Lifetime frame warranty
Super smooth workout experience, per our tester
Five preset elliptical programs
Cons

Small 14.3-pound flywheel
No padding on the pedals
Basic LCD screen

An elliptical can help keep you on track with your cardio goals while keeping your workout low impact to protect your knees. The Horizon EX-59, one of the best ellipticals for heavy people we’ve tested, delivers an ergonomic 18-inch stride, a 300-pound user weight capacity, and a reasonable price tag under $1,000. Value, conveniences, and ergonomics scored a 4 out of 5.

Using an elliptical is a weight-bearing exercise, however, since your feet remain glued to the pedals, it’s easier on bad knees. While the pedals are large, we do wish that there was some padding or adjustability to fine-tune a comfortable fit. Ergonomics and adjustability scored a 4 out of 5.

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Moving padded handlebars get your upper body in on your cardio routine as you power through built-in programs like Distance, Calories, Weight Loss, and Intervals. “There are five preset programs you can take with this elliptical, but the LCD screen is pretty basic,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer. “While the flywheel is only 14.3 pounds, my workout was smooth and there wasn’t any shifting or shaking.” Durability scored a 3 out of 5 due to the flywheel, as it’s smaller than the industry standard of 16 pounds.

For the budget-friendly cost, we were especially impressed with the lifetime frame warranty. “Just a little peace of mind for the longevity of your equipment,” said our tester, who scored the warranty a 4.5 out of 5.

Read our full Horizon EX-59 Elliptical Review.

Best Rowing Machine for Bad Knees: Concept2 RowErg

Concept2 RowErg

Concept2 RowErg

The Concept2 RowErg is one of the most tried and true rowers on the market. The “erg” (as it’s commonly known) provides a double-dose of conditioning and muscular endurance, and is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and a nifty monitor to track meters rowed and calories burned. 

Shop Concept2

Specs

Price: $999

Weight Capacity: 500lbs

Dimensions: 95” L x 24” W

Weight: 57lbs

Screen: PM5 monitor

Pros

Supports users up to 500 pounds
Accommodates users up to 6 feet 9 inches tall
10 levels of adjustable resistance
Cons

No touchscreen or app integration
Chain drive requires more maintenance than belt drives
Seat can be uncomfortable

The Concept2 RowErg, one of the best rowing machines we’ve tested, may be the most popular rowing machine out there. It’s an affordable, durable, low-impact, chain-drive machine with 10 levels of adjustable resistance, and it’s utilized in home gyms and commercial gyms across the world. “Most professional rowers train with air rowers like the Concept2,” notes BarBend editorial member and former collegiate rower Lauren Keary.

Typically, taller individuals subject their knees to more torque and heavier individuals place more stress on their joints. (7) If you fall into one of these two camps, you may be relieved to find that the Concept2 RowErg can accommodate users up to 6 feet 9 inches tall and 500 pounds. “One of our testers is 6 feet 7 inches tall, and he felt super comfortable on this rower,” said our tester. 

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The only discomfort we’d note relates to the seat. “There are grooves to fit your butt, but the seat is made from a hard plastic and can be uncomfortable for new rowers,” said our tester, who scored ergonomics a 4.5 out of 5. When I’ve hopped onto this rower at my gym, the pain in my butt is the first thing that makes me stop my workout. And sure, maybe I’m also tired from my second set of 500-meter sprints, but it’s still worth calling out. 

This rower features a chain drive, which requires more maintenance and is noisier than belt drive rowers. However, these drive systems are meant to hold up to a larger frequency of use than the competition. Durability scored a 4.5 out of 5.

While you won’t find a touchscreen to stream programming, the PM5 monitor allows you to track training metrics like distance, speed, stroke rate, calories burned, and watts. It also offers a variety of training options and even some games. “I appreciate the level of detail the monitor provides during training,” added BarBend editorial member Ben Emminger. 

Read our full Concept2 RowErg Review.

Benefits of Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees

Home exercise equipment that doesn’t exacerbate knee pain can bring with it the benefits of cardio, including strengthened hearts, uplifted moods, and weight management. (3)(8) Additionally, some types of exercise can even help alleviate knee pain. Here are a few of the benefits of exercise equipment for bad knees.

Our product tester using the incline on the Nordictrack Commercial 1750.

Comfort: “While it is best to talk to a movement specialist such as a physical therapist before beginning a new exercise routine if you have injuries or joint conditions, you may be pleased to know that there are plenty of [pieces of equipment] on the market that are able to ease the joint pain commonly associated with walking and running,” says our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto. Knee-friendly equipment often includes padding beneath the running belt and on the pedals and seats, not to mention loads of adjustability options. 

Controlled Training: Home gym equipment provides you with a “controlled environment for rehabilitation and training,” said Capritto. You’re in charge of your intensity and training, and you can dictate your resistance settings based on how good or bad your knees and joints feel.

Decreased Pain: Regular physical exercise can help relieve pain and stiffness in your joints, help you reduce weight to lessen stress on your joints, and ultimately help strengthen the muscles that support your knees. (2)

How Much Does Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees Cost?

How much do ellipticals cost? What about recumbent bikes and rowing machines? Exercise equipment can range in cost from a few hundred dollars up to several thousands. To support users with various budgets, our list ranges in price from under $1,000 up to $2,299. 

The Concept2 RowErg in the BarBend gym.

What to Consider Before Buying Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees

If you’ve ever wondered “why do my knees hurt when I run?,” consider low-impact and cushioned equipment to help you get your heart rate up while still supporting your joints. However, for those with knee injuries, it’s ideal to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the best exercise equipment for you and your body. Consider the following areas once you’re ready to bring a piece of equipment into your home.

Recumbent Exercise Bikes

Cycling is an awesome cardio workout for those dealing with knee problems, and a recumbent bike adds even more support with a backrest and reclined seated position. “The reclined position reduces stress on the lumbar spine and does not require as much flexibility in the hip joints,” says our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto.

Elliptical Machines

“For those who need low-impact exercise options, ellipticals sit near the top of the list,” says Capritto. “These cardio machines provide a full-body workout without putting undue stress on the joints.” What’s more, ellipticals can also get your upper body in on your workout, allowing you to push and pull on the handles, targeting your arms, shoulders, chest, and core.

The Horizon EX-59-Elliptical.

[Related: What Muscles Does An Elliptical Work?]

Rowers

“Rowing is so cool because it is a full-body, low-impact workout,” mentions Jacqueline Owens, former D1 rower and current Row House coach. “Unlike other cardio machines, rowing will target your glutes, quads, back, lats, and shoulders with every stroke you take.” 

While being low-impact and non-weight-bearing, it’s important to consider that rowing may not be suitable for those with back problems. Capritto agrees, “​​The seated exercising position combined with the hip hinging involved in the rowing stroke is not ideal for individuals with lower back pain.”

Spin Bikes

“From people who are looking to generally improve their health, individuals who require low-impact cardio exercise, and competitive athletes, indoor stationary bikes provide excellent workout opportunities,” says Capritto. 

Consider if you’re interested in an exercise bike with streaming capabilities so you can follow along with trainers through scenic landscapes or in a more studio-like spin class setting. App subscriptions tend to cost a monthly fee between $11 and $44.

Cushioned Treadmills

“A treadmill with a cushioned deck provides comfort during exercise that can’t be found on pavement or trails,” says Capritto. “For people with bad knees, a cushioned treadmill might be the only option for participating in weight-bearing cardio exercise.” 

Our BarBend tester warming up with REP Fitness Resistance Bands.

While a treadmill wouldn’t be our first recommendation for those suffering from knee pain, only you can know what you’re capable of, and a treadmill with extra cushioning may be exactly what you need.

Strength Training

You can reap the benefit of strength training via cardio equipment — rowers, cross trainers, and air bikes are specifically made to help work your lower and upper body — but you may be considering your options for knee-friendly types of exercise to focus on building muscle without the added cardiovascular workout. 

While loading up a squat rack may not be in your best interest, you can use resistance training to add load once you’re ready for more than bodyweight exercises. Resistance bands can help you target your leg muscles, strengthening the support system surrounding your knees without adding too much stress. (2)

Exercise Equipment for Bad Knees FAQs

What is the best exercise equipment for bad knees?

Recumbent bikes are often used in physical therapy offices to improve cardiovascular health, build strength, and increase range of motion after injury. For this reason, the Sole LCR is our choice for the best exercise equipment for bad knees. This recumbent bike features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, which comes preloaded with apps and can also mirror the screen of your mobile device. What this means is you can stream classes, training, and entertainment from any app you have on your device on the device’s touchscreen.

What exercise machine is best for arthritic knees?

Working out on an elliptical machine may be a worthwhile consideration for those with knee joint concerns. The elliptical machine is weight-bearing, meaning you’re still building strong bones during your exercise, but since your feet remain on the pedals, you’re not pounding against the ground like you would running on a treadmill.

What exercise should I avoid with bad knees?

You’ll want to avoid most types of high-impact exercise, such as jumping, running, and most types of HIIT training. This type of exercise can put a great deal of stress on your joints and knees due to increased impact.

References

Rehabilitation, C. (2021, August 4). Knee Pain Statistics and Causes – Classic Rehabilitation. Classic Rehabilitation. https://classicrehabilitation.com/knee-pain-statistics-and-causes/

10 tips for Healthy knees and Strong joints As you Age | Arthritis Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/joint-protection/tips-for-healthy-knees

Basso, J. C., Oberlin, D. J., Satyal, M. K., O’Brien, C. E., Crosta, C., Psaras, Z., Metpally, A., & Suzuki, W. A. (2022). Examining the Effect of Increased Aerobic Exercise in Moderately Fit Adults on Psychological State and Cognitive Function. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 16, 833149. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2022.833149

Gkastaris, K., Goulis, D. G., Potoupnis, M., Anastasilakis, A. D., & Kapetanos, G. (2020). Obesity, osteoporosis and bone metabolism. Journal of musculoskeletal & neuronal interactions, 20(3), 372–381.

Harvard Health. (2019, December 11). Why weight matters when it comes to joint pain. https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/why-weight-matters-when-it-comes-to-joint-pain

Abbas, A. (2021, December 15). Standard sizes for various types of furniture. The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/standard-furniture-measurements-1391374

Hunter, D. J., Niu, J., Zhang, Y., Nevitt, M. C., Xu, L., Lui, L. Y., Yu, W., Aliabadi, P., Buchanan, T. S., & Felson, D. T. (2005). Knee height, knee pain, and knee osteoarthritis: the Beijing Osteoarthritis Study. Arthritis and rheumatism, 52(5), 1418–1423. https://doi.org/10.1002/art.21017

Swift, D. L., McGee, J. E., Earnest, C. P., Carlisle, E., Nygard, M., & Johannsen, N. M. (2018). The Effects of Exercise and Physical Activity on Weight Loss and Maintenance. Progress in cardiovascular diseases, 61(2), 206–213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2018.07.014

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