The connected fitness company has officially closed the door on its push for U.S.-based manufacturing

Peloton has sold its spacious Peloton Output Park (POP) facility and land in Ohio to First Solar for a cool $33 million.

The commercial real estate transaction closed on January 11, according to Wood County records. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine alluded to the transaction in an interview with The Blade as he discussed the economic future of the state’s northwest region. 

Peloton announced its Output Park endeavors in 2021, stating that the 1.2 million-square-foot space would serve as its first U.S. equipment factory, with plans to open in 2023. John Foley, Peloton co-founder and its CEO at the time, had said that the Peloton Output Park would give the connected fitness company a “massive strategic lever” to scale its Bike and Tread equipment. By 2022, and coinciding with the departure of Foley, Peloton stated it would wind down its Output Park plan.

Peloton is scheduled to release its second quarter fiscal 2024 results on February 1, 2024, marking CEO Barry McCarthy’s second anniversary as leader of the connected fitness company.

While it’s likely that Peloton will reference Output Park’s sale on its upcoming earnings call, the fitness company will also likely highlight its new Gen Z-focused content deal with TikTok, provide an update on its paid subscribers numbers and B2B deals, and discuss its ongoing international push. 

As Peloton continues to rebound from post-COVID challenges, speculation is swirling that tech giant Apple could make a play for Peloton to position its Apple Fitness+ as a connected fitness dominator.

Industry predictions and rumors are commonplace, but the possibility of an Apple-Peloton deal comes with weight, as Deepwater Asset Management has listed the potential deal on its list of 2024 predictions. The firm correctly predicted nearly all of its ten predictions for 2023. However, many, including Apple insiders, are skeptical of a deal.

The post Peloton Offloads Output Park Factory in $33M Deal appeared first on Athletech News.

C4 maker Nutrabolt acquires a 20% stake in Bloom in a deal that sees the influencer-founded supplement brand raise $90 million in total

Nutrabolt, a health and wellness company that makes functional beverages and active nutrition products including C4 Energy, has made a significant minority investment into Bloom Nutrition, giving Nutrabolt a 20% ownership stake and making it Bloom’s largest investor.

The female-founded Bloom Nutrition concentrates on supplements in the greens and superfoods category, selling pre-workout blends, whey isolate proteins, collagen peptides, collagen creamers and blending accessories.

The investment is part of a larger $90 million financing that includes investor Clayton Christopher, who will join Bloom’s board, and consumer investment firm Amberstone.

Bloom is the brainchild of Mari Llewellyn, a fitness and wellness influencer who shared her inspiring weight loss journey and monetized PDF workout guides and exercise bands before launching the supplement brand in 2019 alongside her husband, Gregory LaVecchia. 

With an audience north of a million Instagram followers, Llewellyn’s Bloom Nutrition quickly landed partnerships with retail powerhouses such as Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Target. 

The couple, who were listed on Forbes’ coveted “30 under 30” list, will remain Bloom’s majority shareholders. 

“We are very excited to partner with Mari and Greg, two outstanding entrepreneurial founders, during the next phase of their company’s growth,” said Doss Cunningham, Nutrabolt chairman and CEO. The deal sees him represent Nutrabolt on Bloom’s board of directors. 

“They’ve built an incredibly strong brand and business over the past 4.5 years, yet there is still tremendous whitespace to pursue in the form of new product platforms and distribution opportunities,” Cunningham added.

The funding will be used to accelerate Bloom’s demand-generation activities and product innovation.

“When we started this company, we could’ve never imagined building such a huge community, and inspiring so many to begin their wellness journeys,” Llewellyn said. “Our goal at Bloom has always been to help everyone ‘bloom’ into their best selves through nutritious and delicious supplements. It’s an incredible honor to have Nutrabolt join us in extending our mission further.” 

LaVecchia added that partnering with Nutrabolt will take Bloom to new heights.

“Their expertise and resources as industry leaders will enable us to scale effectively, fuel sales growth and accelerate innovation,” he remarked. “This is a significant leap forward, and we could not be more excited to embark on this next phase of growth together.” 

The vitamin and supplement sector accounts for a sizable portion of consumer spending, with over 90% household penetration. Recent data from NIQ, a data intelligence service provider, revealed the revenue power of vitamins and supplements, with sales booming to $13.5 billion last year.

The post Bloom Nutrition Scores Investment From C4 Energy Owner appeared first on Athletech News.

Many of the best treadmills on the market have a big footprint, making them unsuitable for those sweating in tight apartments or gyms. The good news is that bigger isn’t always better — there are plenty of compact treadmills available that can deliver a workout every bit as satisfying as a commercial model. Since we at BarBend know what it’s like to have to make the most of your square footage, we sought to curate a list of the best compact treadmills to help you get closer to meeting your fitness goals. 

Our team of fitness professionals has spent years testing more than 40 treadmills of all shapes, sizes, and price points. We took notes and rated each profile on a number of different factors — including how well it utilizes its footprint — and drew upon that data to help us narrow down the best space-saving treadmills for running, walking, sliding under a desk, and even saving a buck. Here are our picks for the best compact treadmills.

8 Best Compact Treadmills

Best Overall Compact Treadmill: NordicTrack EXP 7i

Best Budget Compact Treadmill: Horizon Fitness T101

Best Compact Treadmill for Running: ProForm Carbon TLX

Best Compact Treadmill for Walking: Echelon Stride-6

Best Under-Desk Compact Treadmill: UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill

Best Folding Compact Treadmill: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

Best Compact Treadmill for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

Best Compact Treadmill Under $500: XTERRA TR150 Treadmill

How We Tested the Best Compact Treadmills

Our rockstar team of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and CrossFit enthusiasts has spent years running, walking, sprinting, jogging, and hanging their clothes on more than 40 treadmills. Along the way, we asked questions like: How tight do the floor stabilizers need to be? and Is that cushioned deck actually cushioned? 

Each category in our 13-point methodology is scored on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). From their adjustability and durability to tech capabilities and ease of assembly, we are familiar with these machines. Whether you are trying to add a few more steps to your count while standing at your desk, training for a half-marathon, or trying to build one of the best home gyms in your neighborhood, our team has the lowdown on the best compact treadmills available right now.

Best Overall Compact Treadmill: NordicTrack EXP 7i

The NordicTrack EXP 7i was an easy choice for our best overall compact treadmill. Despite its small footprint — 70.8 inches long and 34.9 inches wide — it features a 7-inch swiveling display integrated with IFIT, a subscription-based app with over 16,000 live and on-demand classes. Other notable features include a 12 percent incline and built-in hydraulics to make lowering the heavy deck easier. “For anyone tight on space, the easy folding plus built-in wheels are super convenient,” Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert tester, said. 

Like all of the best NordicTrack treadmills, the EXP 7i’s IFIT compatibility is a huge benefit, with our tester rating its dynamic programming a 5 out of 5. In addition to its massive library of classes, the app can automatically adjust the speed and incline during classes and scenic rides so you can focus on your sweat. “For just $1,300, this is as good as it gets for a built-in streaming platform like IFIT,” Herod explained. “Honestly, I think the EXP 7i feels like a luxury machine without the high-end price.” 

Caption: Our product tester using the incline on the NordicTrack EXP 7i

Speaking of price, though, it’s worth noting that IFIT will run you $39 a month after the 30-day free trial that comes with your purchase. 

Also, the treadmill’s compact size does have its disadvantages. Though our tester loved IFIT, they had to squint to see their stats on screen. “The 7-inch screen was way too small for me,” they said. Other NordicTrack models have displays that are three times the size, but a bigger display requires a bigger machine. 

Also, the 2.6 continuous horsepower motor can help you reach speeds up to 10 miles per hour. While that may be enough for serious sprinters, it should be plenty for most runners. Herod also called out the 55-inch running deck. “I thought the deck was just a tiny bit small,” Herod said. “If you have a longer stride, you may look at another option in this range, like the 60-inch running deck on the Horizon 7.0 AT.” 

Read our full NordicTrack EXP 7i Review.

Best Budget Compact Treadmill: Horizon T101

For those looking for a sturdy, compact machine to help you burn calories, the Horizon T101 is a budget-friendly option with many of the features you’d find in a machine twice its $699 price. Among them? A cushioned deck, 10 percent incline, and Bluetooth speakers. 

Our tester rated its footprint and portability a 4 out of 5, because at 71 inches in length and 34 inches in width, it’s up to 5 to 10 inches shorter and 1 to 2 inches less wide than the average treadmill. When folded upright, its length is reduced to 46 inches. “I thought it was so easy to move around because of the hydraulic folding system, plus the built-in wheels,” they said. “Compared to something like the 2019 NordicTrack 1750, this machine is not bulky at all.”

Compared to other treadmills in this price range — like the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 — the Horizon T101 has a few features that make it stand out. Our tester loved the quick-adjust rollers on the handles, which allow you to adjust speed and incline without letting go of the handrails. “I thought the rollers made it so much easier to adjust on the fly,” said our tester. “Plus, they were just kind of fun.” Our tester also noted its 55-inch belt deck is six inches longer than the SF-T4400, but still a bit small for taller runners. “Still,” they said, “if I’m choosing between the two, I’d go with the T101.”

Adjusting the incline on the Horizon T101.

The 300-pound weight capacity is on par with many larger, higher-end machines, like the ProForm Pro 9000. That capacity is impressive for an 180-pound treadmill and our tester rated its durability 3.5 out of 5. The aluminum frame may not be as durable as the alloy steel construction you may find in more expensive treadmills like the NordicTrack 1250, but they didn’t notice any wobbling during use. 

Its 2.5 continuous horsepower motor can reach speeds up to 10 miles per hour, which may not be fast enough for serious runners. Our tester, though, noted that this should be plenty for the average user. “10 miles per hour is close to sprinting for most people, so for someone just trying to do some simple cardio, it will be fine,” they said.

Read our full Horizon T101 Review.

Best Compact Treadmill for Running: ProForm Carbon TLX

It can be tough for runners to find a compact treadmill, as many space-saving machines have decks between 50 and 55 inches, which can impact the length of one’s stride. The ProForm Carbon TLX measures just 74.3 inches in length — still 5 to 6 inches shorter than the average treadmill — but offers a 60-inch running surface, which should accommodate long strides during sprints. Five inches can make a huge difference.

Whether you’re training for a marathon or just want to begin a cardio routine, the 3.0 continuous horsepower motor is robust enough to handle daily runs, walks, and sprints. We also liked the belt’s ProShox cushioning, which prompted a 4 out of 5 rating from our tester for adjustability and ergonomics. 

We do, however, wish the 1.9-inch rollers were a bit larger. “The size of the rollers in any treadmill determine how fast they spin to keep up with the motor,” said Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert tester. “For really serious runners, I’d like to see rollers of at least 2.25 inches to avoid some long-term wear and tear.”

Runners, though, will find plenty of variety thanks to the bike’s compatibility with IFIT, a fitness app with more than 16,000 cardio, strength, and mobility classes. “I would put IFIT programming up against any competitor, including Peloton,” said our tester. They rated the dynamic programming 5 out of 5, saying, “I felt like it added another dimension to my workouts.” 

After the free 30-day trial that comes with your purchase, a monthly subscription to IFIT will run you $39 per month. We’d recommend it, as our tester said “the machine would be pretty underwhelming” without it. With it, though, the ProForm Carbon TLX is a compact, efficient vessel for supporting you across thousands of different cardio classes. 

Best Compact Treadmill for Walking: Echelon Stride-6

Walking is a viable form of exercise, especially when you’re strolling up a steep hill. We think the Echelon Stride-6 is the best compact treadmill for walking because of its 12-level incline range, which should provide plenty of challenge for those who enjoy a leisurely sweat. As you increase the incline with the quick-adjust scrolling wheels in the handrails, you can target muscles like the glutes that may not work as hard when walking on level ground.

The Stride-6 also offers something others in this price range — like the NordicTrack EXP 7i or ProForm Carbon TLX — don’t. “I think the ability to fold completely flat is a huge feature on this and other Echelon models,” our tester, a certified personal trainer and USA Weightlifting Level-1 coach, highlighted. “It could be stashed in a corner of an apartment or even tucked under a bed.” Taking into account the tread’s horizontal and vertical transport wheels, they rated the footprint and portability of the similarly-compact Echelon Stride a 5 out of 5. 

Speaking of the Stride, our tester noted Echelon’s commitment to stability. “Even at higher speeds, my older model hardly shakes,” they pointed out. “At slower speeds, I thought it was super stable.” 

If you do see yourself picking up the pace, the Stride-6 also has you covered. The motor can deliver speeds up to 12.4 miles per hour, which is 2.4 miles per hour more than the average compact treadmill. It also has a roomy 60-inch running deck, which should allow plenty of room for those with longer strides. We rated its predecessor, which has similar features, a 5 out of 5 in terms of ergonomics. 

We do, however, wish the treadmill had a display of its own instead of just a device holder. Also, the treadmill comes with an unimpressive 1-year warranty. To get a 5-year warranty, you have to subscribe to the Echelon Premier app for an added $39.99 a month. 

Best Under-Desk Compact Treadmill: UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill

Using an under-desk treadmill is a sneaky way to get more cardio. For a simple and easy way to get more steps in, we think the UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill is the best under-desk compact treadmill out there. Essentially, the machine is just the deck, but it includes a foldable 36.6-inch handrail that can be folded up if you need to hold on to it. With the handrail folded down, it measures just 5 inches tall, meaning it can slide under any standing desk. 

That 5-inch height is even shorter than others in this price range, like the Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Flat Treadmill, which measures 6.5 inches tall. “This is honestly one of the most compact treadmills I’ve used,” our tester raved. 

The UREVO 2-in-1’s tiny footprint and easy portability — just 54.7 inches long and 26.4 inches wide when folded — scored a 5 out of 5 from our tester, who noted, “It’s only 59 pounds, so when it’s folded flat, one or two people could probably just load it up in a car.” 

Our product tester lowering the handlebar on the UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill.

The belt deck — 42.5 inches long and 16.9 inches wide — is between 7.5 and 17.5 inches shorter than what you’ll find on most treadmills, however, so we wouldn’t recommend it for running.“For context,” our tester said, “if I’m going to recommend a treadmill for running, I need to see at least a 50-inch deck, but closer to 60 inches.”

At just $389, our tester rated its value 4 out of 5. “For its purpose, it is a tremendous value,” they said. “It’s not trying to pretend to be something it’s not.” It won’t be able to handle intense workouts, but as our tester put it, “If you are just wanting to increase your step count or move a little more throughout the day, the UREVO is a great option.”

Because it’s such a compact machine, our tester rated its durability 3 out of 5. “There’s a lot of plastic and I don’t expect it to last forever,” they said. “But for under $400, if you only walk on it, it would probably hold up for a while.”

[Related: The 6 Best Under-Desk Treadmills]

Best Folding Compact Treadmill: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

The Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill is our pick for the best folding compact treadmill because it can fold completely flat. The handlebar raises up from the deck and locks into place to allow you to hold on to it while you walk or jog. It can also be lowered down to the sides of the deck, essentially creating a walking pad like the WalkingPad P1. While the machine is flat, you can use the remote control to change the speed during use.

In the raised position, two detachable arms can be extended towards you for additional support. Our tester loved both the detachable nature of the arms and the foldable handlebar, saying, “I liked being able to customize the actual build of the treadmill.”

Folding the adjustable handlebar on the Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill.

The Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill has a small footprint — 52.5 inches long by 29 inches wide — resulting in a 4 out of 5 rating for our tester in terms of its size. Despite its diminutive nature, the treadmill still packs a 2.25 continuous horsepower motor that can reach speeds of up to 7.5 miles per hour. “I don’t think I would try to go too hard,” our tester said. “Since it’s so compact, it may not be able to handle much more intensity than jogging.” 

That said, they rated its durability just 2.5 out of 5, saying, “Even though the stated max weight is 265 pounds, I felt like the motor might bog down if you get close to that.” They did, however, note the cushioning in its five-layer belt. “At walking speed, I really noticed the cushion,” they pointed out. “However, as I increased the speed, it was much less apparent. It was also more stable and smooth at those lower speeds.”

In terms of overall value, our tester rated the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill 4.25 out of 5. “While you may not hit a full sprint on it,” they said, “I would totally recommend it for someone just trying to add some cardio to their routine.” 

[Related: The 8 Best Folding Treadmills of 2024]

Best Compact Treadmill for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

With its low price point and essential features, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 is our pick for the best compact treadmill for beginners. Though it can only reach a max speed of 9 miles per hour — 1 to 3 miles per hour less than the average treadmill — and has just a 4.3 percent incline, that should be plenty for those who are just building endurance. Helping to build that endurance are nine built-in workout programs that can ease beginners into a cardio routine. 

“I think the SF-T4400 is a good entry point for beginners,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. “For a serious runner, I don’t think this machine would cut it. But at just $399, it’s a really good value for people starting out.”

At 62 inches long and 25.5 inches wide, our tester rated its footprint and portability a perfect 5 out of 5, making special note of its soft drop hydraulic folding mechanism. “I think it could actually fit in some cars because it folds very flat,” they said. “The soft drop feature was a big deal for me because I live in fear of crushing my toes while lowering a treadmill.”

For adjustability and ergonomics, our tester rated the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 3.5 out of 5. Though the deck is between 6 and 11 inches shorter than what you’ll find on many treadmills, they liked its shock absorption and 15.5-inch wide deck. “Even though the 49-inch deck is short for running, it is wider than I expected,” they said. 

As expected, some members of our team had trouble getting a long enough stride for a run on the 49-inch deck. “I’m pretty tall, so I knew I wouldn’t be able to run on this,” our tester said. “But even some of our shorter testers couldn’t quite run comfortably.” As such, this treadmill is perhaps best used for walking and jogging. 

“There was a decent amount of plastic in the build, but for $399, that should be expected,” our tester  noted, rating its durability 3 out of 5. “For so much plastic, the 220-pound max weight capacity is pretty good.” Another area with a 3 out of 5 rating was its tech capabilities. Again, for a beginner treadmill in this price range, you won’t see high-end technology. “The basic preset programming was better than nothing and would be fine for beginners,” our tester said.

The incline is manual, meaning you’ll have to adjust it yourself, but that’s common among machines at this price range, like the XTERRA TR150 at $394. “For someone just looking to stay active and burn some calories,” our tester pointed out, “it’s a great value, especially for small spaces.”

Best Compact Treadmill Under $500: XTERRA TR150 Treadmill

Our pick for the best compact treadmill under $500 — the XTERRA TR150 Treadmill — has many of the features you would find in a pricier treadmill. Its 2.25 horsepower motor is powerful enough to reach speeds of up to 10 miles per hour, and its three levels of incline are rare for this price range. For someone looking for an affordable treadmill that can deliver a medium-intensity cardio workout, the TR150 could be the right choice.  

The customizations on this treadmill — like its maximum speed and incline capability — earned a 3.5 out 5 rating by our tester. “I thought the fact that it included incline and the 10 miles per hour max speed was impressive for this price point,” they said. “But it’s not going to fool anyone into thinking it’s the NordicTrack 2450 or anything.”

Our tester did, however, wish the TR150 had a hydraulic folding mechanism, rating it just a 2 out of 5 in terms of its adjustability and ergonomics. “Most treadmills have a gas shock to help lower them slowly,” they explained. “When it’s folded up, it’s only held in place with a pin, so a kid could easily walk underneath it, grab that pin, and it would fall right on them. I’d recommend just leaving it folded down.”

Workout experience earned a 3.5 out of 5 rating from our tester, but noted the limitations of its 50-inch deck. “I like that it’s simple, and I’d recommend it for walking or light jogging,” they said. “But for anyone doing serious running, you may need a belt deck around 55 to 60 inches.” 

Still, they rated its overall value a 4 out of 5. “At around $400, I don’t think you can find better than this,” they said. “A 10 miles per hour maximum speed, incline, and a small footprint — definitely tough to beat.”

How We Chose the Best Compact Treadmills

Whether your new treadmill will end up in your apartment, home, garage, or gym, it may become the most used piece of equipment you own. These are some of the most important elements of the treadmills we looked for when making our list.

Footprint

A treadmill’s footprint refers to the amount of floor space it takes up. Depending on the size of the area you plan to put your treadmill, you may not mind a large machine. If you’re looking for a compact treadmill, the footprint may be one of your major concerns. With each pick on our list, we tried to ensure each treadmill didn’t take up more than around 18 feet of space. There are also a few small enough to fit beneath a desk, with the smallest coming in at 9.19 square feet.

Also included on this list are some of the best folding treadmills that either fold upright or flat to save some precious square footage when you aren’t using it. Taking into consideration the placement of your new treadmill can help determine which one is best for you.

Price

On this list you’ll find both ends of the pricing spectrum. While most compact treadmills tend to be available for less than larger machines, that doesn’t mean they skimp on quality. Some of the best compact treadmills tend to be budget-friendly because it’s more difficult to pack in large motors, extra tech features, or incline and decline capabilities.

BarBend product tester, Jake Herod, running on the NordicTrack EXP 7i.

Treadmills that are on the pricier end of the range often feature some of the bells and whistles you might expect, like IFIT integration or a 12 percent incline. Treadmills with screens tend to be more expensive than those with simple LCD displays, while lower-cost machines may only allow you to step on, press start, and start walking. Whatever your budget, you can find a compact treadmill here that fits right in.

Incline and Speed

To mix up your treadmill workouts, incline sessions are a standard treadmill feature. It simulates walking or running up hills and can even help you target muscle groups like the glutes. The incline range on compact treadmills is generally less than larger machines because as that footprint starts to decrease, there is less space for the components that allow incline and decline. The most expensive treadmills here top out at 12 percent and the smallest and least-expensive won’t incline at all.

The top maximum speed is an important feature because, depending on your intended use, you may need the ability to complete sprint or interval training. You’ll see maximum speeds on our list ranging from 7.6 miles per hour to 12.4 miles per hour. In general, the more powerful the motor, the faster the speeds. As such, more power usually equals more dollars.

What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Treadmill

When contemplating any purchase this large, you want to make sure you have all the facts. We tried out all the treadmills on this list to help you fill in as many gaps as possible. Throughout the time we have spent with these machines, we considered many factors such as your budget, size of the machine, and placement in your space. Consider these aspects of compact treadmills before making your decision.

Budget

Having a defined budget before beginning your search can help narrow your focus and save you time by eliminating options outside that range. We included treadmills on this list that come in at many different price points to suit as many customers as possible. Many compact machines are already less expensive than larger options, but even among the compact treadmills on our list, your options range from $299 to $1,980. In general, you can expect the power of the motor, quality of the build, and extra features to determine the number on the price tag.

Treadmill Size and Placement

Compact treadmills take up less space than a typical commercial or home gym option. Before even thinking about filling your minimal space with a machine this size, plan out how much room you will have to use it. All of these foldable treadmills have footprints ranging from 9.19 square feet to 18.11 square feet. If you can measure the size of the spot you want the treadmill to occupy, you’ll be better informed when perusing our list.

Personal Fitness Goals

Establishing your personal fitness goals prior to pursuing a treadmill will add even more clarity to your search. Whether you are having trouble finding time to train for that 10k race you committed to, or just want to keep moving while you are at your stand-up desk, keeping your fitness goals in mind can also help narrow your search. 

The display on the UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill.

If you want to tone your quadriceps and glutes, you might look for a machine with incline. If you had a recent injury and are working yourself back into shape, you may only want to go with a compact treadmill for walking. Whatever your reason, knowing your why is the first step of any major purchase.

Different Types of Compact Treadmills

With so many different specifications and features in a compact treadmill, finding the best match for your purposes can be challenging. Take a look at a few available types of options for compact treadmills.

For Running

If you plan to use your treadmill primarily for running, there are some factors to consider that you may not be looking for. The length of your running stride will be considerably longer than your walking stride. Typically, any belt deck shorter than 55 inches would be too short for running, but the industry standard is 60 inches. Some compact treadmills may have shorter belts than 55 inches, but still claim to be for running. The quality of the build, along with the belt deck length will help determine if a treadmill is suited for running.

Budget

On our list, we included several budget options to accommodate every athlete. A “budget” treadmill doesn’t have a certain price, but we chose four treadmills less than $400. These machines may not include features like touchscreens, wide incline range, or Bluetooth connectivity. If you are on the prowl for a “budget” treadmill, it’s best to set your expectations accordingly. Essentially, if you know you just want to hop on, press start, and go, a budget treadmill could be your best option.

Under-Desk

These small treadmills have become popular in recent years as more workers are able to work from home or use standing desks in the office. As the health risks of prolonged sitting are becoming more well-known, under-desk treadmills have become an easy way to increase your cardio exercise throughout the day. (1) In an under-desk treadmill, you should see features like flat folding, remote control, and height of the deck. 

Benefits of Compact Treadmills

Because treadmills are such versatile pieces of training equipment, there are many benefits that come along with adding one to your space. Here are some of the positives of owning and using a compact treadmill.

Adjustable Intensity

The ability to adjust speed and incline is a huge benefit for all treadmill users. These features can allow you to vary your workouts to target specific muscle groups, simulate a certain course, or just add a little excitement. Treadmill training also is not only about running. Walking and jogging can also provide quality exercise, so utilizing the lower speeds on your machine can still promote your overall fitness.

Space-Saving Footprints

The compact treadmills on our list don’t take up as much space as the average treadmill and all of them have the ability to fold upright or down flat. Many include built-in wheels and are lightweight enough to move from room to room, slide under a bed, or stand up against a wall. 

Our product tester unlatching the handlebar on the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill.

They can save enough space in your training area to make room for other bulky gym equipment like weight benches. These treadmills are designed to fit any space — no matter how small.

Availability Despite Outdoor Conditions

Wouldn’t it be lovely to live in a place that was 70 degrees, sunny, peaceful, and quiet 365 days a year? Unless you have found this paradise — in which case, call me — one factor to consider every time you want to go for a run or walk is the conditions outside. Of course the weather is a major consideration that can stop your workout from happening altogether. But even factors like safe walking paths, sidewalk congestion in large cities, or the type of surface can affect the quality of your training.

Flexible Training Schedule

Owning your own compact can allow you to keep a more manageable training schedule. Without having to fight traffic on the way to the gym — or people traffic inside the gym — you can more efficiently get your workout started and finished. If you have a busy schedule already full of responsibilities like work, family, or other commitments, finding time to plan a trip to the gym or a route around your neighborhood can be a difficulty that a home treadmill can alleviate.

Final Word

Compact treadmills can save you a lot of space, but there are potential drawbacks. Many of the models we tested had smaller decks — between 45 and 55 inches — and minimal technical capabilities. Others weren’t designed for serious runners, but are great for casual cardio or getting in more steps during your work day. 

Take advantage of the years of experience that our team has with treadmills to be better prepared to take the leap. We hope you’ll ask the same questions we asked about these machines. Find out if it has a long enough belt deck to handle a running stride. Find out if it folds flat enough to scoot under your couch. Whatever criteria informs your decision, use our list of the best compact treadmills as a shortcut to finding your perfect match.

FAQs

References

Stamatakis, E., Gale, J., Bauman, A., Ekelund, U., Hamer, M., & Ding, D. (2019). Sitting Time, Physical Activity, and Risk of Mortality in Adults. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 73(16), 2062–2072. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2019.02.031

The post 8 Best Compact Treadmills of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.

With such an overwhelming amount of products on Amazon, finding the best treadmills can feel overwhelming. There’s a reason many consumers turn to Amazon — fast shipping and flash sales chief among them. The online shopping hub, however, can occasionally seem like the wild west. Disreputable and mysterious sellers abound, and discontinued or knock-off products can cause confusion. That’s why we rounded up the best treadmills on Amazon from trusted brands for categories we think will accommodate a variety of athletes. Whether you need IFIT integration, folding capabilities, or a unit that can fit under your standing desk, you can find it here.

The cardio fiends at BarBend have personally tested over 40 treadmills from top brands, many of which are available both on the company’s website and on Amazon. We also navigated the maze of Amazon and scoured customer reviews to ensure that each treadmill is being sold by a reputable merchant at a reasonable price. Hopefully, this should make your next Amazon rabbit hole easier to navigate. Here are the nine best treadmills on Amazon.

9 Best Treadmills on Amazon

Best Overall Treadmill on Amazon: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Best Treadmill on Amazon with IFIT: ProForm Pro 9000

Best Treadmill on Amazon for Running: Horizon 7.0 AT

Best Manual Treadmill on Amazon: AssaultRunner Pro

Best Smart Treadmill on Amazon: Echelon Stride

Best Folding Treadmill on Amazon: Sole F80

Best Budget Treadmill on Amazon: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400

Best Treadmill Under $1,000 on Amazon: Horizon T101

Best Under-Desk Treadmill on Amazon: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

How We Tested the Best Treadmills on Amazon

Each treadmill on this list has been tested according to our methodology by our team of fitness professionals. Our testers include certified personal trainers, CrossFit trainers, and nutrition coaches. We know fitness and love helping people make big decisions that support their fitness goals. Every product below was used for multiple workouts over the course of weeks, months, and — in some cases — years. 

We tested 41 treadmills and rated them across 13 areas — footprint and portability, durability, customization, and adjustability, among others — and researched aspects like customer service, warranty information, and, in this case, the legitimacy of each product’s Amazon seller. Each category was scored on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest), resulting in an overall score for each treadmill that helped secure their place on this list. 

Best Overall Treadmill on Amazon: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Simply put, the NordicTrack 1750 is a beast. From its durability and flex cushioning to the benefits provided by its IFIT integration, this treadmill isn’t just one of the best NordicTrack treadmills available, it’s one of our favorite treadmills overall. In addition to having both incline and decline options, this treadmill provides a number of high-tech capabilities — interactive programming, 14-inch HD touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity — while costing $2,499, roughly $500 less than competitors like the Peloton Tread.  

With your purchase, you’ll get a 30-day free trial of IFIT, an integrated app offering trainer-led classes and scenic runs that allow you to get the most of your machine. Just queue up the Grand Canyon hiking series, for example, and you’ll be immersed in the steep inclines and declines from the South Rim to the Colorado River. As you walk, the NordicTrack 1750 adjusts the speed, incline, and decline to correspond with your chosen trail. 

The hydraulic folding mechanism decreases its footprint when not in use, but we still wouldn’t recommend keeping it in a small apartment. Kate Meier, certified personal trainer, rated its footprint and portability a 3.5 out of 5. “Even though it folds and has wheels,” she said, “at 340 pounds, you probably want to leave it in one spot.” With a length of 80 inches, it will take up more room than comparable treadmills like the Sole F63 — 77 inches in length — or the ProForm Pro 9000 — 77.3 inches in length. 

A BarBend product tester walking on the NordicTrack 1750

Its size brings its own advantages, though. The 60-inch by 20-inch running deck is 5 inches longer than most treadmills, so it can accommodate runners of varying heights. Taking into account the belt’s flex cushioning and its decline capabilities, Meier gave it a 5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics. “Aside from the ProForm Pro 9000,” she said, “I haven’t seen many machines cheaper than this that actually have decline capabilities.”

When you visit the Amazon page, you’ll notice there is no option for Prime 2-day shipping. However, it is still free and may take about a week to be delivered. It’s also covered under Amazon’s 90-day Return, Refund, or Replacement policy.

Read our full NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill on Amazon with IFIT: ProForm Pro 9000

If you’re planning to invest in a top-of-the-line treadmill, you want to make sure you get the most out of it. We think the ProForm Pro 9000 is the best treadmill with IFIT because its 22-inch HD touchscreen and incline and decline capabilities work in tandem with the live and on-demand classes and scenic walks available on the app. Because of its IFIT compatibility, the Pro 9000 can automatically adjust the speed, incline, and decline during a workout.

Your included free month of IFIT gives you access to its library of over 16,000 live and on-demand workouts. In addition to cardio sessions, you can even hop off the machine, swivel the display, and start a yoga, strength training, or Pilates session. The ProForm Pro 9000 includes built-in programming, but it pales in comparison to the IFIT experience. “It has programs like interval and hill training,” certified personal trainer Kate Meier said, “but I wouldn’t recommend this treadmill to people who don’t plan on using IFIT.” 

A BarBend product tester using the HD touchscreen on the ProForm Pro 9000

An IFIT subscription allows you to get the most out of some of the treadmill’s most notable features: its -3 percent decline, 12 percent incline, and 3.6 horsepower motor, which can reach speeds of 12 miles per hour. Enjoying a scenic run on the coast of Iberian peninsula via the 22-inch HD touchscreen is a game-changer. “That screen was insanely nice,” Meier said. “It also tracked my progress and connected to other devices via Bluetooth.” Because of its IFIT integration and Bluetooth capability, Meier rated its tech capabilities a 4.5 out of 5, and we think it’s one of the best treadmills with IFIT.

The tread’s overall footprint and portability was one category where Meier docked the Pro 9000. “The hydraulic folding makes it easier to fold, but it was heavy to try to move by myself,” she said, rating it 3.5 out of 5. “It also has wheels, but I ended up kind of sliding it instead.” 

The warranty and financing earned a solid 4.5 out of 5 — 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 10-year frame and 2-year parts warranty — but Meier made an important note about it. “The warranty states it must be stored in a climate-controlled environment or it will be voided. So keep it out of your garage.”

Read our full ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill on Amazon for Running: Horizon 7.0 AT

The Horizon 7.0 AT is our pick for the best treadmill on Amazon for running because its 2.5 continuous horsepower motor can reach speeds of 12 miles per hour, which is 2 miles per hour faster than the average treadmill. It also has a 60-inch running surface that’s 5 inches bigger than what you’ll find on many comparable models, making it ideal for those with longer strides. In terms of durability, we rated it a 4 out of 5. “I didn’t feel any shaking during runs, which was impressive,” said our tester, a certified CrossFit trainer.

Rating their overall workout experience a 4.5 out of 5, our tester emphasized the deck. “Even though the belt was a little thin — which may be an issue for someone with bad knees — I thought the deck was awesome,” they said. 

Our tester also called out the treadmill’s hydraulic folding mechanism. “For someone tight on space, I think the 7.0 AT is perfect,” they noted. “It has hydraulic folding, which makes it super easy to fold up.”  When folded, the 76-inch length shrinks to just 44 inches, saving you about eight square feet of floor space.   

It can also support users up to 325 pounds, which is 25 pounds more than the average treadmill’s weight capacity. Near its max speed of 12 miles per hour, it won’t be silent, but our tester said, “I didn’t feel like it was super quiet, but definitely not crazy loud.”

Our product tester using the 0%-15% incline feature on the Horizon 7.0 AT.

The Horizon 7.0 AT is light on tech, with a 7-inch LCD display that shows your speed, distance, time elapsed, and calories burned. It also has some preset programs: Fat Burn, My First 5K, and Hill Climb, to name a few. But if you like on-demand classes or use any of the best fitness apps, it’s BYOD — bring your own device. As such, our tester rated the tech capabilities a 3 out of 5. 

Other features we liked included Its 15 percent incline range, which is bigger than what you’ll find on other treadmills under $1,500, like the ProForm Carbon T10. Also of note are the Quick Change Dials built into the handles. These small scroll wheels let you make those adjustments without having to reach for buttons on the display. 

Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.

Best Manual Treadmill on Amazon: AssaultRunner Pro

Curved treadmills are unique because they are completely user-powered and generally have minimal maintenance issues. Since it has no motor, the runner generates power by leading with the ball of the foot and engaging core muscles to propel the belt forward — more exertion means more calories burned. (1) The AssaultRunner Pro is our pick for the best manual treadmill on Amazon because its heavy-duty steel frame, tough oval tubing, and powder-coated parts were designed to withstand years of use.

Our tester rated its durability 4 out of 5, knocking off a point only for the plastic sides. “The heavy curved tread has a rubber top and really thin gaps between the slats, which is exactly what you want,” they said. The Pro also includes a 150,000-mile belt warranty.

Our BarBend product tester running on the AssaultRunner Pro

By forcing runners to engage their core and lead with the ball of their foot, curved treadmills can help instill proper running form. “The power and speed of each stride determines how fast the belt rotates,” our tester explained. “I definitely feel the increased exertion and this type of treadmill is ideal for improving explosiveness and overall power.” 

Assault has a newer, upgraded manual treadmill called the AssaultRunner Elite, which we named one of the best curved treadmills. This is the model we tested, but, as our tester pointed out, “I don’t see a ton of difference outside of the look and extended warranty. Honestly, I think most people will find more value in the Pro model.” Considering the Elite will run you about $1,000 more than the Pro, that’s good news. 

It should be no surprise that it boasts a weight capacity of 350 pounds, which is 50 pounds more than most treadmills. The machine itself weighs 280 pounds, so, while this speaks to its toughness, you’ll likely want a friend to help you move it around, even with its built-in handles and transport wheels. This earned its footprint and portability a 3.5 out of 5 rating because, as our tester said, “It’s not designed for easy foldable storage like typical treadmills.”

Outside of the heart rate monitor and Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, you won’t see much tech. Our tester also rated its tech capabilities 3.5 out of 5, saying, “I was impressed with the heart rate monitor, but there wasn’t much other than that.” 

Best Smart Treadmill on Amazon: Echelon Stride

The Echelon Stride — our pick for the best smart treadmill on Amazon — seamlessly connects with the Echelon Fit app to give you access to 3,000 live and on-demand workouts. This dynamic programming was a standout feature for Kate Meier, certified personal trainer, who rated the category a perfect 5 out of 5. “I thought the live and on-demand classes were really engaging,” she said. “It’s also cool you can ‘compete’ with family and friends.” 

To connect, first place your device in the device holder and open the app. Then, choose your class, press play, and a red bar will appear at the top of the screen. When you tap the red bar, the name of your machine will appear. Choose it and you’re all set. After you connect the first time, the treadmill is smart enough to remember your device.

In addition to Echelon’s vast library of classes, there are over 40 live classes per day. Each account also includes five separate profiles, so you can share it with friends and family. To get the most out of the treadmill, in our opinion, you’ll need access to the app, which costs $40 per month after the included 30-day free trial. That said, the Echelon Stride does include eight preset workouts of its own. “If you’d rather not pay for Echelon Fit, or want to take a break from your subscription, you can always opt for those workouts” Meier said. 

It features up to 10% incline and a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour, but Meier felt the 1.75 continuous horsepower motor “left a little to be desired.” The auto-fold feature also reduces its height from 49.2 inches to just 10 inches. This feature prompted her to give it a 5 out of 5 rating for footprint and portability. “When it’s folded up, it could easily just slide under a bed,” she said. Also, at just 156 pounds, it is far lighter than other folding treadmills — like the 278-pound Sole F80 — making it simple to move.

Between upgraded models and the development of the Echelon Fit platform, its treadmills are some of the most tech-friendly out there. On Amazon, you can also find the upgraded Stride S and 4S models that offer stronger motors and a few more frills like HD touchscreens. 

Read our full Echelon Treadmill Review.

Best Folding Treadmill on Amazon: Sole F80

Our choice for the best folding treadmill on Amazon is the Sole F80 because its release lever makes folding a breeze for when you need to save some space. Since the F80 is — in the words of our tester — a behemoth, it’s important that it can easily fold up and down. The release lever and gas shock on this foldable treadmill will help you do just that. “I thought the gas shock was a huge help when lowering it down,” they said. “It helped me get it down safely and with all my fingers and toes intact.”

Our tester rated the footprint and portability a 3.75 out of 5 overall, but raved about how easy it was to move around. “Unlike a lot of treadmills we see, it has four attached wheels instead of just two. That made it easy for me to move it around by myself.”

Our product tester folding and moving the Sole F80.

This treadmill was designed with runners in mind. “One of the first things I noticed was its wider than average belt deck size,” our tester noted. “Most treadmills I’ve seen have the standard 20-inch wide deck, but the F80’s deck is 22 inches wide.”

The Sole F80 has a 3.5 continuous horsepower motor, a cushioned running deck, and a maximum weight capacity of 375 pounds. Its solid construction earned it a 4 out of 5 durability rating from our tester. “This motor can handle a lot of volume running at high speeds,” they said. “I definitely wouldn’t worry about components burning out or anything.” 

As for its cushioned deck, Sole claims it can reduce joint impact up to 40 percent. While we do think it’s one of the best cushioned treadmills on the market, our tester wasn’t sure about that number. “Honestly, I didn’t notice an enormous difference, but I could tell it was cushioned,” they said. “I don’t know how they got to ‘40 percent’ but I’d say it’s somewhere between a super-cushioned deck and a non-cushioned deck.” 

One feature our tester was disappointed was missing was decline capability. “I think even a -3 percent incline would have been nice,” they said. “It’s more expensive than Sole’s F63 model, so I wish they could have added a decline option.”

Read our full Sole F80 Treadmill Review.

Best Budget Treadmill on Amazon: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400

Searching through Amazon for quality budget items can be a long and treacherous journey, but the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is the real deal. Even at this low price point, you’ll get a lot of the features of more expensive options. For about $600 to $1,500 less than high-end treadmills, you’ll get notable features like three incline levels, shock absorption, and handrail controls. 

Outside of the manual incline and folding capability, there isn’t much else in terms of adjustability and ergonomics, so our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, rated this area a 3.5 out of 5. However, its shock absorption and soft-drop folding features impressed them. “I folded it up after every time I used it, so actually a highlight for me was the soft-drop feature,” they said. “I just had to tap the bar holding it up and it started lowering pretty gently.” 

The 62-inch length of this tread — the average treadmill measures between 70 and 80 inches long — makes it ideal for small spaces and apartments. It also weighs just 103 pounds, which is more than 100 pounds lighter than many treadmills. 

Our tester rated its footprint and portability a 5 out of 5, but noted that its small size does impact its running surface. “The 16-inch wide tread is smaller than the standard 20-inch on most machines, but it should work for most people.” Similarly, the 49-inch long surface is 6 inches smaller than you’ll find on most treadmills, which may impact the comfort of taller users when running. 

In terms of durability, our tester rated a 3 out of 5. “The 220-pound weight capacity was fine for me, but I did notice a lot of plastic in the build,” they said. It’s also light on tech, resulting in a 3 out of 5 tech capabilities rating. “It does come with an odometer and some basic built-in programs, but with a max speed of 9 miles per hour, I don’t know if I would want to go too hard,” said our tester. “It’s probably best for walking or a light jog.”

But for those in search of a budget treadmill that can provide some basic cardio, the SF-T4400 is a great option. “For a space-saving, compact treadmill to keep you active and burn some calories, I think it’s a great value,” said our tester.

Best Treadmill Under $1,000 on Amazon: Horizon T101

Though it costs just $699, the Horizon T101 has several of the features you’ll find in treadmills well over $1,000. “For being under $1,000, I like its programming, deck cushioning, and 2.5 continuous horsepower motor,” said our tester. They also noted its incline range. “It’s rare for a treadmill in this price range to have a 10 percent incline, so that’s one reason I’m really high on the T101,” they said. 

We also like the quick-adjust rollers on the handles that provide a more comfortable way to change the speed and incline mid-run. Other notable features include its hydraulic folding, variable deck cushioning, and built-in programming, the latter of which includes workouts centered around speed and hill training.

Our product tester completing an incline workout on the Horizon T101.

The motor can reach speeds of up to 10 miles per hour. “For the average person looking for some simple cardio exercise or to get some steps in, this is plenty fast,” our tester noted. 

Our tester rated their overall workout experience a 4 out of 5, dinging it slightly for its 55-inch deck, which, along with the motor, may not be best suited for intense runners. “I typically like to see a 60-inch running surface,” they said. “I’d say this would definitely be better suited for walking or jogging.” 

Our tester rated its durability 3.5 out of 5. We like that, despite weighing just 180 pounds, it can support runners up to 300 pounds. We did, however, experience some shaking during use, but adjusting the floor stabilizers lessened it somewhat. “This may be something you have to work out depending on where you put the treadmill, but at first I thought it was a lot of shaking,” they explained.

Read our full Horizon T101 Treadmill Review.

Best Under-Desk Treadmill on Amazon: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

Our pick for the best under-desk treadmill on Amazon is the Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill, which is compact enough to fit under standing desks. When folded flat, the base measures just 4.5 inches tall, so the average standing desk height — around 44 inches — would need to be raised to accommodate the height of the machine. Even though the 2.25 continuous horsepower motor provides a smooth operation, it can only reach up to 7.5 miles per hour and has no incline or decline options. However, it’s still excellent for burning a few extra calories as you bounce between Zoom meetings or update spreadsheets. As our tester put it, “I would absolutely recommend it for anyone trying to add some more walking into their work day.”  

Unlike other profiles in this category — like the WalkingPad P1 — this treadmill features a foldable handlebar with detachable handrails. “I liked that you can use the treadmill with the handlebar folded up or down,” our tester said. “The remote control also lets you control if you have it folded flat.” If you decide to use the handrails, they are fixed at 3.5 feet high and can’t be raised or lowered. Our tester pointed out that may not be ideal for taller users.

Our product tester walking on the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill.

In terms of conveniences, our tester rated the treadmill a 3 out of 5, noting that there’s a device holder on the handlebar, but that it’s only big enough for phones. It also has a remote control that makes for easy adjustments as you walk. 

They continued, “The belt deck size is another reason I wouldn’t try to run on a belt deck this small. I’m 5 foot 4 inches and I even had trouble getting a long enough stride to jog or run.” The belt measures 40 inches long and 16 inches wide, so, compared to the standard 55- to 60-inch length, this treadmill is tiny.

The overall value of the Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill earned a 4.25 out of 5 from our tester. “It will not be great for someone trying to improve their cardio or even train for a 5k,” our tester called out. For those looking to add some extra steps during the work day, though, this treadmill may be the unit for you. 

How We Chose the Best Treadmills on Amazon

We looked at 13 specific and measurable factors when searching for the best treadmills on Amazon. When we stepped on the running deck of each one, we noted aspects like adjustability, tech capabilities, built-in or subscription-based programming, footprint, portability, and more.

Reputable Listings

When perusing Amazon — especially for a popular item like treadmills — it can be tough to separate the wheat from the chaff in terms of listings. By combing each page and scouring customer reviews, we’ve confirmed the reputability of each listing to ensure there won’t be any unsavory surprises after your order has been made. 

Footprint and Portability

If you are looking to purchase a treadmill, chances are it will end up in your home, apartment, garage, home gym, or somewhere else where it will be taking up valuable space. When scrutinizing these machines, we asked questions like: Exactly how big does it measure? Does it need to be plugged in? Can it be folded? Does it have wheels? How hard is it to move?

Our product tester folding up the ProForm Pro 9000.

The best treadmills on Amazon come in all shapes and sizes, but when you open the listing on your screen, all you can see is a tiny image of it. Our job is to help you visualize the space it will occupy to determine if it’s a good fit for you. If you have a shared space, you need to know how difficult it is to move into a storage area. If it requires two people to relocate, we made note of that so you can plan accordingly.

Tech Capabilities

Tech is a must for some runners, and a hindrance to others. When assembling this list, we wanted to include options for techies and luddites alike, which is why you’ll find several smart treadmills alongside straightforward machines. 

Tech-savvy treadmills tend to have an attached touchscreen display and integration with fitness apps like IFIT, Echelon Fit, or Peloton. With these apps, you can access libraries of classes and even take scenic rides. Some apps, like IFIT, can even make automatic adjustments to your machine’s speed and incline based on a trainer’s instructions. These apps tend to require monthly subscription fees, and we made sure to point out when they do. Of course, if you’d rather avoid all of that and just run, we’ve got plenty of options for you, too.

What to Consider Before Buying a Treadmill on Amazon

With so many competing factors involved in making a purchase this large, it’s important to gather as much relevant information as possible. We tried to help you get close to the perfect match for fitness goals, physical environment, and types of workouts. Here are a few specifics to consider before making the investment.

Fitness Goals

One primary factor that should go into your decision is the type of treadmill that will help you meet your goals. The best treadmills on Amazon are all great for cardio workouts at home, but in many different capacities. Some of the more expensive options will provide intense workout experiences. Others may be more relaxed — like walking while standing at your desk during the work day. Before you start comparing sizes, incline capabilities, or tech capabilities, establish the reason you’re looking for a treadmill in the first place.

Physical Environment

Before starting your search, consider where in your home or gym you’ll use your treadmill. If you have ample space and can more or less permanently place your treadmill in one spot long-term, the footprint may not be as big a factor. 

Our product tester unlatching the handlebar on the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill.

However, if you are going to have to set up, then store it every time you use it, look for smaller options. Having to lug around a heavy machine every day can affect how motivated you’ll be to actually use it.

Price

To find a treadmill on Amazon that fits your budget, first identify the amount you are able to spend and the features you need. We included treadmills at a wide range of prices — $299 to $2,999 — so there may be an option here to fit most budgets. The more expensive machines will include capabilities like incline and decline or interactive programming, while the treadmills at the lower end of the range may only have basic features like speed-adjust buttons in the handrails or less powerful motors. When considering the amount of money you are willing to spend, make sure you find the features that are most important to meet your needs. 

Different Types of Treadmills on Amazon

On our list, you’ll find treadmills of all shapes, sizes, and capabilities that can help you reap the benefits of cardio. Each machine has a purpose and being aware of what is available is the first step to arriving at your decision. Some treadmills are for walking, others are for running. Some plug into an outlet, some are strictly user-powered. Here are a few types of treadmills to help you get started.

Smart

Treadmills that are Wi-Fi-enabled can provide much more programming and variety of workouts than those that only offer preset programs or none at all. Most smart treadmills will incorporate a subscription-based platform like IFIT or Peloton, which allow you to access a library of classes and scenic rides via a touchscreen that’s attached to the treadmill.

For Running

Running on a treadmill puts more stress on components like the motor, deck, and belt than walking does. Treadmill motors are typically continuous horsepower, meaning they can sustain a certain horsepower over time. 

Most runners will want a treadmill that can reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour, but If you’re a serious sprinter, you may be better served by a 3.5 CHP motor that can reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour. At speeds this high, most treadmills can experience some shaking or wobbling. The overall durability of the machine is also a consideration if you plan to use your machine mostly for running.

For Walking

If you intend to use your treadmill primarily for walking, the power output of the motor can be on the lower end of the range of common treadmill motors. For an average walking speed of around 3 to 5 miles per hour, you won’t need much power. It’s probably not necessary to buy a large treadmill with a powerful motor if you only intend to use it for walking.

Benefits of the Best Treadmills on Amazon

The best treadmills on Amazon do much more than just allow you to walk or run. Some of them have streaming devices. Some provide a way to get extra steps during work hours. Whichever benefit you’re after, we have a pick on our list that can provide it.

Save Money on Shipping

Getting your treadmill through Amazon may provide advantages over shopping retail or buying directly from a consumer. First and foremost, Amazon purchases often qualify for free shipping and can arrive in as soon as two days. Amazon also encourages customers to leave reviews and upload images, which can also be helpful for consumers looking for second opinions. Sellers can also offer frequent or unannounced sales and often sell discontinued items for cheap as they try to unload inventory.

Convenience

Owning a treadmill — in your house, apartment, or garage — is a convenient way to improve your physical fitness. If you have a chaotic schedule that makes it difficult to get to the gym or if you live in an area not conducive to outdoor walking or running, having a treadmill a few steps away can eliminate a huge hurdle to regular exercise — inconvenience.

Build Muscle 

Most of our picks for the best treadmills on Amazon have some level of incline or decline capacity. Increasing the incline of your walk, jog, or run can tone and build muscle in your thighs and glutes. Beyond the muscle groups in your legs, treadmill exercises can also engage and strengthen your core muscles. 

Nordictrack-1750-2023-model-walking-on-incline.jpg

Caption: Our product tester doing an incline workout on the NordicTrack 1750.

Some options that we included have the capabilities to stream off-machine exercises, too. An IFIT or Peloton subscription offers access to HIIT, yoga, pilates, running, and strength training classes. Just swivel your screen and get started.

Improved Mental Health

If owning your own treadmill can make it more likely that you’ll stick with a regular workout regimen, there is research to suggest an additional benefit to improved physical fitness — improved mental health. Research has shown that consistent physical activity — like walking or running — is associated with positive effects on mental wellbeing. This includes preventative effects on anxiety, depression, and maybe sleep disorders. (2) A 2023 study also concluded that physical exercise can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. (3) 

Final Word

Finding the diamonds in the rough of Amazon can be tough. With so many options for treadmills to sift through, it can be difficult to find a quality machine to support your fitness goals. We created our list of the best treadmills on Amazon based on our personal experiences with the products, scoring each on factors such as durability, footprint, tech capabilities, and customer reviews.

When choosing a treadmill, consider your own fitness goals, the space available in your home, and your budget. Also, do you see yourself sprinting, running, or walking on it? Are virtual workouts a major factor? Or do you want a treadmill you can just hop on and start running? After identifying what’s most important to you, use our expertise to guide your final decision. 

FAQs

References

Robertson, Nicholas, “Comparing Calorie Expenditure and Rating of Perceived Exertion between the Curve and a Motorized Treadmill” (2014). EWU Masters Thesis Collection. 268.

Imboden, C., Claussen, M. C., Seifritz, E., & Gerber, M. (2022). Die Bedeutung von körperlicher Aktivität für die psychische Gesundheit [The Importance of Physical Activity for Mental Health]. Praxis, 110(4), 186–191. https://doi.org/10.1024/1661-8157/a003831

Mahindru, A., Patil, P., & Agrawal, V. (2023). Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review. Cureus, 15(1), e33475. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.33475

The post 9 Best Treadmills on Amazon of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.

2023 Olympia Men’s Physique champion Ryan Terry opened a state-of-the-art gym called RT Fit in Retford, Nottinghamshire, England in partnership with strength brand Primal. Terry invited other elite strength athletes and media alike to try the multimillion-dollar fitness hub.

There’s hardly a better duo to evaluate gym equipment “The World’s Strongest Brothers,” Tom and Luke Stoltman. Take a look at the two-time World’s Strongest Man (WSM) champion and 2021 Europe’s Strongest Man (ESM) tour RT Fit below:

Terry won the 2023 Men’s Physique Olympia title on his ninth attempt. His dedication to a nearly decade-long journey is recorded in the RT Fit entrance corridor, where his Olympia medals and jackets take pride of place.

Terry’s concept for RT Fit was an all-in-one space to work, recover, and refuel. The RT Eats space offers healthy meals and a barista provides quality coffee with the beans roasted on site.

Terry wants his gym members to get to know each other in this communal space, a challenge to 24-hour gyms where patrons go about their business with headphones on to avoid interaction.

Want to get a haircut? RT Fit is outfitted with barbers and a hair salon. The 2023 Men’s Physique Olympia champion wants his members to “get everything done” on site, so they can spend more time training and less time travelling.

You Can “Get Everything Done” at RT Fit

For recovery, RT Fit offers electromagnetic therapy designed to help with pain relief and relaxation. Per a 2020 study in Physical Therapy, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) has “a beneficial effect…on pain, stiffness, and physical function” compared to a placebo. (1)

There’s also cryotherapy and traditional deep tissue massage in RT Fit’s sports rehabilitation facilities. After an intense workout and/or round of posing, members can recover in an ice barrel, offered inside RT Fit’s recovery suite. There’s a sauna for heat therapy and a body drier; a piece that looks like a cross between a radiator and a hairdryer.

In addition to the main gym floor, there’s a specially lit spin area with pumping music for cyclists to train to. Many expected Terry’s gym to only concentrate on bodybuilding, but Terry’s vision was to create a gym “for everybody.” To that end, RT Fit also offers yoga and dancercise.

Terry worked with Primal to conceive his vision of all-encompassing gym experience. Terry explained to the Stoltman brothers how Terry wanted to section off the various disciplines of training such as cardio, pin-loaded machines, a core-focused area, and the free weights alongside squat racks. Terry and his team of ex-marines offer strength and conditioning classes; a touch that left the Stoltmans suitably impressed.

“This floor feels soft,” noted Luke. “That’s for the CrossFitters,” answered Terry, stepping onto the sled track. For dedicated weightlifters, RT Fit features a plate-loaded section mixing Primal equipment with traditional staple pieces. Terry showed the Stoltmans the vast sets dumbbells, ranging from 2.5 Kilograms (5.5 Pounds) to 80 Kilograms (176 Pounds). “That’s class,” nodded Luke.

Terry guided the Stoltmans to the “Posing Room,” an enclosed mirrored space to display the physique off from all angles in controllable lighting. After recieving tips on how to properly tan, the Stoltman’s tour cam to an end.

Tom Stoltman’s next strongman contest is the 2024 Arnold Strongman Classic on March 1-2, 2024. Ryan Terry is expected to attempt his first Olympia title defense at the 2024 Olympia on Oct. 10-13, 2024, in Las Vegas, NV.

References

Yang, X., He, H., Ye, W., Perry, T. A., & He, C. (2020). Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy on Pain, Stiffness, Physical Function, and Quality of Life in Patients With Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials. Physical therapy, 100(7), 1118–1131. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa054

Featured image: @ryanjterry on Instagram

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Like other facets of fitness, personal training has gone digital, too. There’s no shortage of online personal trainers available — including the Caliber Fitness App — that keep your instruction and workout guidance within arm’s reach. Plus, these apps can be great for keeping coaching costs lower than the in-person alternative — studies show the average cost of an in-person trainer ranges between $25 and $100 hourly. (1) Of the best online personal trainers offering digital coaching, Caliber sits near the top of many leaderboards (including our own).

Caliber’s online coaching platform pairs you with a certified personal trainer that will curate a well-rounded routine based on your fitness goals, training experience, and available equipment. The app mainly focuses on strength training, particularly progressive overload — one of the best training methods for muscle growth and progression. (2) With plans starting at $200 monthly, though, this service doesn’t come cheap. Still, we believe this to be one of the best fitness apps offering up personal training support anywhere, anytime.

Main Takeaways

Caliber’s certified personal trainers help you craft training regimens based on your goals and available equipment with an emphasis on progressive overload. (2)

This fitness app platform is available on both iOS and Android, meaning you don’t need a specific phone or smartwatch to reap its benefits.

The app also offers a free version of the app that gives you access to the workout library along with a convenient platform for logging your sessions on your own.

A workout app that costs $200 per month? We feel the sticker shock, too, but our tester, a certified personal trainer, believes there’s ample value in investing in Caliber. 

After downloading the Caliber app, you’re taken through a guided setup process that includes a thorough questionnaire that inquires about your current fitness level, experience in strength training, available equipment, and more. Once your questions have been submitted, you’re matched with a coach for a quick, introductory one-on-one. While simple, this process does require your full attention, so we rated the platform a 4 out of 5 for ease of use.

The experience doesn’t end after this preliminary call, though. In addition to your customized workout regimen, you’re also given written and video instructions for every prescribed exercise. Your coach is also plenty reachable through the in-app messaging feature. You can also record yourself during sessions within the app itself and send the video files to your personal trainer for any tips or assistance on form — a welcome feature, according to our tester.

“I like how you don’t have to record your reps on your regular phone camera where it goes to camera roll,” they said, speaking to the video form correction feature. “After my videos were sent, my coach provided near-instant feedback, which helped in keeping me on the ball with every workout.”

Screenshots of the Caliber app

At its roots, Caliber is based on boosting your performance in strength training through progressive overload. This method of resistance training, according to studies, can supplement enhanced muscle growth and performance over other methodologies. (2) Our tester also noted that the programs don’t include a bevy of intricate or complicated movements. Instead, emphasis is placed on a few exercises — and getting you closer to mastery.

This focus on strength training also doesn’t mean you need a plethora of home gym essentials at the ready to utilize the fitness app. While having a barbell, free weights, and dumbbells at your disposal is nice, Caliber’s roster of qualified coaches are more than capable of curating a regimen of bodyweight movements, too. This fitness app does have its limits in other disciplines, though — we were hard-pressed to find many cardio-forward workouts, so we rated the app a 4 out of 5 for workout variety.

Your prescribed coach — and the interactions you have with them — isn’t limited to just training topics, either. According to our tester, a certified nutrition coach, your personal trainer can also help you nail down your health and wellness goals related to sleep, hydration, nutrition, and mobility.

It should be noted, though, that Caliber coaches are certified nutrition coaches — not registered dietitians. This means that while coaches can’t prescribe individualistic diet plans or recommendations based on your health records, they can still provide more generalized advice relating to your goals and dietary needs.

Using the Caliber Fitness App

We’ve had hands-on experience with the Caliber Fitness App for months now and have had an overall positive experience with the platform. For the sake of this review, our time has been focused on the “Premium” version of the service, which grants you access to one-on-one personal training (albeit, for $200 monthly and beyond). 

We do, however, acknowledge and praise the fact that Caliber also offers a free-forever version of the app that delivers workout logging and exercise instruction, as well as a community fitness “Pro” option for $19 monthly for group-oriented, class-like instruction.

[Related: Want To Find the Right Personal Trainer? Here’s How]

In terms of the personal training “Premium” version of the app, we’ve experienced multiple positives when it comes to the platform. From the integrated metrics designed to keep you motivated throughout sessions to the detailed instruction and weekly check-ins, here’s some of the best perks we experienced during our time with the Caliber Fitness App.

Strength Score And Strength Balance

One area where our tester appreciated the Caliber app over other digital training programs was in its multilayered approach to progress tracking. You still log your reps and sets as you would in a traditional training journal, but the app also has two algorithmic measurements as well — strength score and strength balance.

According to our tester, strength balance is the more interesting metric of the two. Strength balance works by illustrating how developed your major muscle groups are when compared to one another, shown as a percentage.

“For example, my strength balance shows that my lower body muscles are more developed than my upper body,” notes our tester. “I really like this metric for beginners, as it paints a good picture of your potential weaknesses and where you should be focusing your training.”

Caliber Fitness App Screenshots

Strength score, on the other hand, is more so tied to individual exercises. If you’re really making strides in the bench press, for example, that will be indicated with a progressing strength score throughout your workout history. Our tester states, though, that not every exercise tracks your strength score, and there’s no rhyme or reason that they’ve found as to which movements log this statistic.

Scheduled Caliber Coach Check-ins

Another component that the Caliber app drives home lies in accountability, which we rated at 5 out of 5. Admittedly, the experience is different than that of an in-person personal trainer, which our tester especially noticed while trying to upload videos for form correction — you can only upload one video at a time, which makes the process a little more laborious than necessary. Still, though, they said that they always felt motivated to stay consistent with their workouts day in and day out.

“I really like how Caliber integrates with the Apple Watch,” says our tester. “This gives your trainer a better glimpse into your activity levels outside of the prescribed workouts. If you go on an evening walk, for example, they can note that as they compile and curate your next routine.”

[Related: The Best Fitness Trackers For Heart Rate, Sleep Quality, and More]

In addition to the tracked workouts and activities, you can also expect scheduled weekly check-ins from your prescribed personal trainer. This was a favorite feature of our tester, because it takes the strain out of trying to plan a sit-down with your coach.

“My coach would record videos and send them to me through the chat function,” they said. “The content would outline my week’s progress, offer up advice and tips where necessary, and lay out new training goals based on my progress. It’s very thorough.”

Multiple Forms of Instruction

We also found no shortage of information when it comes to learning the exercises within the Caliber app. According to our tester, the platform boasts over 500 exercises in its library of movements, and the roster is alphabetized and searchable for easier instruction mid-session. “I really enjoyed how you could filter by muscle groups worked and equipment requirements,” says our tester. “It really made finding the right info less of a pain.”

In theory, though, you don’t need to worry about searching through the library with a “Premium” plan, since your workouts are pre-built and organized as a template thanks to your personal trainer. When our tester would start a workout, they simply tapped on a listed exercise and began logging their reps and sets.

If you have a question about a certain exercise, you can read through the instructions to get a handle on the move itself. There’s also an accompanying video tutorial explaining the exercise, which can be a definite perk for visual learners. You also have access to your fitness coach through the app’s messaging feature for near real-time feedback, so there’s no excuse to go through a training session with questions. For these reasons, we give Caliber a 5 out of 5 when it comes to instruction.

What to Consider Before Downloading the Caliber Fitness App

A subscription to Caliber’s “Premium” personal training app starts at $200, making it far more of an investment than some of the other best fitness apps on the market — and why we rate it at 3.5 out of 5 for price. Typically, workout apps can range anywhere from $0 to $100 monthly.

As such, we recommend looking at your budget first and foremost before entertaining the notion of downloading Caliber. There are also other factors to consider before clicking through your respective app store — we’ve outlined them below.

Fitness Goals

As with any workout service, you’ll want to ensure that the platform is aligned to your personal training goals. Whether you want to build muscle, lose weight, or just want a more convenient way to track your progress, make sure that the app you choose is capable of delivering the goods.

In terms of Caliber, we’ve noted its emphasis on strength training. While the app does offer advice on mobility and other wellness categories, its primary focus is in weightlifting and resistance training exercises. So, we wouldn’t recommend this platform for cardio athletes or yogis.

Available Equipment

You can’t expect to log a bench press or back squat if you don’t have access to a bench or rack, right? So, be sure to take into account which equipment you have available to you before diving into a prescribed training program. Caliber’s certified personal trainers are capable of crafting bodyweight-specific workouts if you’re limited on gear, which is why we rate the app at 4 out of 5 for required equipment. Other strength-specific services may require you to have an abundance of free weights, racks, benches, and more from the start.

Still, Caliber’s main focus lies in strength training and the brand states that most of its users are members of a dedicated training center. So, we recommend having at least a few essentials at the ready to give you a better shot at progress — and less headaches for your personal trainer. You don’t need to break the bank, either, thanks to the abundance of budget-friendly fitness equipment on the market in today’s day and age.

[Related: The 12 Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2024]

Training Preferences

If you’re a beginner athlete or want some guidance throughout your workouts, signing up for a personal trainer can be a worthwhile endeavor. We recommend Caliber, too, because while the $200 monthly subscription is higher than other apps, it’s still a cheaper solution than the average in-person coaching costs, which range from $25 to $100 hourly. (1)

Of course, personal training isn’t for everyone. Some athletes may feel like the advice isn’t necessary for them to generate positive results in training. Thankfully, Caliber also offers a “Pro” group-oriented plan that creates a class-like structure in each session, offering up a workout plan that’s more generalized to the group so everyone is completing the same exercises. The advice isn’t personalized, but it can still be a helping support system.

Caliber Fitness App Screenshots

There’s also a free-forever version that features a streamlined workout logging system as well as instruction on the over 500 exercises in the library. This version of the app would be good for athletes that know exactly how they’d like to structure their training plan, or those that don’t prefer the assistance given by a personal trainer.

Caliber Vs. Other Popular Fitness Apps

With fitness continuously moving through the digital age, it’s easy to confirm that Caliber isn’t the sole workout app offering personal training. Multiple platforms offer a similar experience at comparable price points, so it can help to look around when deciding on an app that fits your needs.

We’ve looked at three similar apps to Caliber — Future, Juggernaut AI, and Strong. These apps all focus mainly on strength training, to some degree, and carry differing subscription costs and methodologies.

One of the biggest competitors to Caliber is Future. Both offer customized personal training experiences that see you matched with a coach of your choosing. Additionally, both platforms cost roughly the same, with $199 and $200 rates for Future and Caliber, respectively. We’ve had multiple testers trial Future, and their ratings indicate that the app is a positive addition to their training. We’d be splitting hairs if we really wanted to differentiate the two, so take a gander for yourself and see which app interface is more appealing.

Juggernaut AI is also an effective workout app offering personal training routines, but as you can guess from the name, the platform is powered by AI rather than an actual human coach. This can be a great option for those wanting a different perspective on advice and coaching, but we’ve found that the equipment demands are stricter with Juggernaut AI than with Caliber. 

With Juggernaut AI, you will need access to strength training staples like a squat rack, barbell, and free weights, whereas Caliber can curate workouts to just bodyweight exercises. Plus, the human element of Caliber may be more comforting to some athletes.

The final app similar to Caliber, Strong, offers no personal training elements, but can still be a worthwhile option for advanced athletes. The library of exercises is robust with written and visual instruction, and you can easily build out a solid workout template for each day of the week. The platform is more involved than Caliber, though, so if you want a hands-off approach to planning, we’d recommend paying the premium for the personal training experience.

[Related: The 10 Best Workout Apps for Men of 2024]

Places to Download the Caliber Fitness App

You can sign up for Caliber online at the brand’s website, caliberstrong.com. Additionally, the app is available for download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Customer Experience

In terms of setup, the Caliber Fitness App was easy to download from our respective app stores, and completing the preliminary questionnaire was painless. Our tester also appreciated how communicative their coach was during trials, stating that they typically received a quick response when reaching out with any questions or inquiries.

As far as app compatibility is concerned, Caliber is available for both iOS and Android, so there should be few issues when it comes to downloading the app to your smartphone or smartwatch.

Lastly, according to our tester, Caliber offers a 30-day money-back guarantee regardless of which plan you choose. Additionally, there’s a 7-day free trial period for the “Pro” community workouts subscription.

Company Information

Caliber was founded in 2017 by Justin Fauci and Chris Muir after the pair had an intimidating first experience in their college gym. Since then, the app has grown to accommodate group and individual fitness journeys with an emphasis on strength training and progressive overload. According to the brand, “The Caliber program is based on the latest research in training, nutrition and habit formation, with a data-driven approach that unlocks results for anyone, regardless of their age, experience level, or access to equipment.”

To reach Caliber, you can email their customer support staff at support@caliberstrong.com. Additionally, the brand has an online form available where you can send any inquiries related to the app, training, subscription prices, and other relevant topics of conversation.

In Conclusion

The Caliber Fitness App is one of the best platforms we’ve found for personal training. The certified personal trainers offer up detailed, informative guidance and the accountability is top-notch, too. We also appreciate how easy it is to A) set up the app and get your coach, and B) log your workouts for the sake of tracking your progress. Plus, we felt supported when it came to mastering different exercises thanks to the coach access, as well as the written and visual instructions tied to each movement.

Of course, though, a $200 monthly charge is not feasible for every budget. When thinking of downloading the Caliber app, make sure that you can comfortably afford the service, or at least look to the other subscription tiers offering group-oriented training or workout logging capabilities. Personal training apps are aplenty these days, but few do it as well as this helpful platform.

FAQs

References

Mahaffey, K. (n.d.). How much does a personal trainer cost & should you hire one?. NASM. https://blog.nasm.org/how-much-does-a-personal-trainer-cost

Plotkin, D., Coleman, M., Van Every, D., Maldonado, J., Oberlin, D., Israetel, M., Feather, J., Alto, A., Vigotsky, A. D., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2022). Progressive overload without progressing load? the effects of load or repetition progression on muscular adaptations. PeerJ, 10. 

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2023 World’s Strongest Man (WSM) Mitchell Hooper has been dipping into Olympic weightlifting to improve as a Strongman competitor. The techniques used in Olympic weightlifting offer crossover into strongman that can help push Hooper above the rest of the field. Examples include using a split jerk during a log press or snatching a heavy implement during a loading medley.

Hooper paired with Texas A&M weightlifting coach Zack Telander at a Miami fitness expo — a CrossFit event. On Jan. 14, 2024, Telander published a video on his YouTube channel that features the pointers Telander gave Hooper during a split-jerk workout to maximize strength output. Check it out below:

[Related: Is Visualization Your Ticket to Better Performance?]

Split Jerk Drills & Technique

While Strongman and Olympic weightlifting are cousins in the lifting world, Hooper had little experience with the push-jerk before training with Telander. Telander didn’t want to “turn [Hooper] into an overthinker” on the new lift since Hooper was obviously not fresh to the barbell game.

I don’t want to make [Hooper] into an Olympic weightlifter. I want to give him the best practices.

Telander began the coaching session with the end position of a split jerk, where the legs are split and bent in the receiving position. He implored Hooper to stretch this position into nearly a lunge with a back-heel pulse to warm up the back leg.

Telander had Hooper get into a deep squat to alleviate thoracic spine stress. In a power jerk, both legs land directly beneath the body with the barbell overhead, which applies heavy stress to the thoracic spine. A split jerk can help alleviate that by spreading the strain.

Telander suggested starting with the barbell overhead and bringing it down while tucking the elbows forward to assist with proper front-racking technique. Telander urged the best practice of ensuring the front foot is kicked out enough so the front knee remains behind the heel when the barbell moves overhead. Telander equated proper form to kicking a soccer ball, where the foot extends in front.

Other best practices mentioned included landing the back foot first when moving under the barbell. This is the body’s anchor point, which helps maintain balance. The back foot landing first absorbs most of the force.

Get the idea that you’re jumping out of your mind. You’re just driving the sh*t out of the bar. Drive high, stay high.

The cue of “drive high, stay high” means keeping the body upright and pushing the bar up while the legs absorb the weight. “Jumping” with the barbell is uncontrolled, but “driving” the barbell is not.

Split Jerk Warm-Up & Hooper’s PR

As with any Olympic weightlifting movement, the technique is pivotal for form and safety. Hooper warmed up with 62 kilograms (135 pounds), focused on how his body moved through the split jerk. He increased 102 kilograms (225 pounds), driving the bar up, splitting the feet, pushing the neck forward, and maintaining his balance throughout.

Hooper commented during Telander’s warm-up that Telander doesn’t drop very far – roughly four inches. They increased the weight to 142 kilograms (315 pounds). Telander told Hooper to kick Hooper’s front foot out and extend the front knee. Hooper adhered to the coaching before upping the weight to 165 kilograms (365 pounds) for a single.

Hooper continued to push the weight up to 183 kilograms (405 pounds). He locked it out clean on his first attempt. He attempted a personal record (PR) afterward of 206 kilograms (455 pounds). Hooper exploded the bar overhead, planted his back foot, and nailed the PR on his first attempt.

Recognizing he had more in the tank, Hooper upped the weight on the bar to 211 kilograms (465 pounds). Again, another successful attempt and a second PR of the session.

Hooper is expected to compete in strongman next at the 2024 Arnold Strongman Classic, where he will attempt his first title defense. Before that, he will fly to Qatar in February to compete in his mixed martial arts debut against 2017 WSM champion Eddie Hall.

Featured image: @coach_zt on Instagram

The post “Drive the Bar”: Zack Telander’s Split Jerk Tips For Strongman Mitchell Hooper appeared first on BarBend.

Elite powerlifter Austin Perkins has the biggest total of any raw 75-kilogram lifter in the world at 851 kilograms (1,876 pounds) and the highest DOTS score of any tested athlete, having eclipsed Taylor Atwood for both accolades.

Perkins has lifted with the USA Powerlifting (USAPL) federation for most of his career but recently announced a switch to Powerlifting America (PA). Perkins has already done his qualifying meet in Texas in December 2023 and is currently preparing for PA Raw Nationals in Reno, Nevada, on March 15, 2024.

Perkins’ preparation appears to be proceeding apace as he posted a training update on his Instagram page on Jan. 14, 2024, wherein he squatted a monster 285 kilograms (628 pounds) raw for three repetitions. Check it out below:

Perkins used knee sleeves, wrist wraps, and a lifting belt to aid his squats. Many powerlifters find low bar squatting hard on their wrists, so they use wrist wraps for extra support.

Perkins’ first rep seemed effortless. The second didn’t look much slower. Perkins took a second to steady himself before starting his third repetition, but it moved just as easily. He may have had reps in reserve.

Dread it. Run from it. Destiny arrives all the same.

The current International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) squat world record in the 74-kilogram class is 283.5 kilograms (625 pounds), set by New Zealand’s Tim Monigatti at Malta’s 2023 Classic World Championships (CWC) in an intense battle for the 74-kilogram crown.

Perkins’s best squat in raw competition is an incredible 313.5 kilograms (691 pounds). It seems likely Perkins will attempt to break the world record at his first opportunity. In the IPF, world records can only be challenged at international contests, meaning Perkins still has to clear several hurdles before writing his name in the record books.

First, Perkins must make the USA team for the 2024 IPF CWC. There, he must win his class and achieve at least 85 percent of the IPF world record total along the way.

In this case, 85 percent of the 800-kilogram (1,764-pound) total that Kjell Bakkelund set at the European Powerlifting Federation (EPF) 2023 European Classic is 680 kilograms (1,499 pounds). Perkins is the highest totaling 75-kilogram lifter on the planet, so hitting that total seems like a slam dunk.

Perkins will face Taylor Atwood at Raw Nationals. Atwood has been a dominant force in this class for several years but struggled with injury in 2023. These two last met on the platform at the 2021 USAPL raw nationals. Atwood was victorious on that occasion, but Perkins has come a long way since. If Atwood is back on form, there will be an almighty clash for the American title.

Whoever is victorious will compete at the 2024 CWC in Druskininkai, Lithuania, and gain the opportunity to compete for world records and the world championship title. There is more on the table this year: qualifications for the 2025 Sheffield Powerlifting Championships and The World Games 2025 are on the line.

Perkins and Atwood will face off at PA Raw Nationals on March 15, 2024. It promises to be an epic encounter and can be watched live via the PA YouTube channel.

Featured image: @the75kg on Instagram

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