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The 10 Best Treadmills For Tall Runners

Best Treadmill For Tall Runners
Exercise equipment is designed by the fitness industry for the average sized person. That can leave taller people out in the cold. When it comes to home treadmills for cardio training, the wrong size can be more than uncomfortable for tall runners. It can severely compromise their running gait, leading to potential injury. In this article, we’ve gone deep into the treadmill market to unearth the best treadmill for tall runners.

As well as our top-rated treadmill for taller runners, we’ll also review the nine next best. Plus, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive buyer’s guide to buying the best treadmills for tall runners and answering the most frequently asked questions on the subject.

Table Of Contents

Best Treadmill For Tall Runners Comparison Table

#1 Editor’s Choice

Sole F85 Treadmill
Read Full Review

#2 Editor’s Choice

Bowflex T10 Treadmill
Read Full Review

Horizon Fitness T303 Treadmill
Read Full Review

The Sole Fitness F80
Read Full Review

Bowflex Treadmill 22
Read Full Review

3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill
Read Full Review

ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
Read Full Review

Schwinn 570T Treadmill
Read Full Review

NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill
Read Full Review

LifeSpan Fitness Folding Treadmill
Read Full Review

1. Sole F85 Treadmill

Sole F85 Treadmill
OGLF ICON

Editor’s Choice #1: The Sole F85 takes our top spot due to its combination of the wide and long running deck, powerful motor and tall people friendly design features, such as the short rail arms. We also love its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, which is both super quiet and super shock absorbing. The speed and incline capacity of this machine also allow serious trainers to get a very intense workout.

Wide Running Deck

The Sole F85 has one of the largest running decks we could find. It measures 60 inches (152 cm) long and 22 inches (55 cm) wide, making it easy for taller people to get free leg and arm movement as they are running. It also has a maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs (181 kg). Again this is among the highest that we found. That means that taller and heavier users will not have to put up with a compromised motor function.

We also really like that the Sole Fitness F85 has relatively short arm rails. As a result, taller users won’t have to put up with banging their hands against the rails which can happen on machines with longer rails.

Cushion Flex Whisper Deck

Sole Fitness have put a lot of effort into their deck cushioning technology. The result is their Cushion Flex Whisper Deck system, which is designed to reduce stress and impact on the ankles and knees and hips when you are exercising. This is great for the people who, because of their heavier weight, tend to put more stress on the joints when running.

Speed And Incline

The Sole F85 has a speed range of between 0.5 mph and 12 mph. That’s a couple of miles higher maximum speed than you get on your average treadmill. 12 mph may not sound that much, but when you are actually running on the street more, you quickly realize how challenging it can be to sustain that pace.

The incline ranges between 0 and 15%.

Heart Rate Monitoring

As well as the standard pulse grip heart rate monitoring, the F85 comes with a chest heart rate monitor strap. This allows you to get an accurate reading of your training heart rate, making it easier for you to work out within your training heart rate zones for the goal you wish to accomplish.

Solid Build

The Sole F85 is a stylish, well-contracted machine that is built to last. This is, though, a heavy treadmill that weighs more than 300 pounds (136 kg). That may make it a little tricky to move around but also ensures that you are running on a very stable, solid surface that will not give you any lateral movement – that’s a problem that comes with many lighter, cheaper models.

Pros

Cons

2. Bowflex T10 Treadmill

Bowflex T10 Treadmill
OGLF ICON

Editor’s Choice #2: The Bowflex T10 comes in a narrow second to the Sole F85 in our list of best treadmills for tall runners, with its similar running bed dimensions and weight capacity. You get a 12-month complimentary JRNY app membership with your purchase and intensity is guaranteed with a 20 degree incline range.

Large Running Belt & Weight Capacity

The Bowflex T10 matches the Sole 85 stride for stride (pun intended) in terms of running surface dimensions and user weight. Those dimensions are 60” x 22” (152 x 55 cm), with the weight capacity being 400 pounds (181 kg). Both numbers are outstanding in terms of home use treadmills and make this a very good choice for taller people.

JRNY App

Your purchase of the Bowflex T10 comes with a complimentary 12-month membership to the JRNY app. The JRNY experience provides you with adaptive workouts that get harder as you get fitter. You can also explore the world with hikes, walks or sprints through 40+ scenic destinations. Trainer led videos provide friendly virtual coaching.

Motorized Incline Decline

This unit features an auto incline function that allows you to tilt the running deck between -5 and +5 degrees. That’s an impressive range, providing plenty of extra challenge while training. The Bowflex T10 has a max speed of 12 mph, a three hp motor and a max user weight of 400 pounds (181 kg). However, this is a heavy unit, weighing in at 323 pounds (146 kg).

Monitor

The monitor on this machine features a 10-inch (25 cm) full-color backlit LCD screen. It allows you to connect to your favorite streaming entertainment services, including Netflix and Hulu. You’re also able to connect to the Explore the World app so you can run along to virtual courses and stunning trails that will adjust automatically to your running speed.

Pros

Cons

3. Horizon Fitness T303 Treadmill

Horizon Fitness T303 Treadmill

3 CHP Motor

The Horizon T303 is one in a new line of budget models released by Horizon targeted toward casual runners. As a result, it is not designed to be as fast or as powerful as some of the other models on this list. It has a three CHP motor, which should be powerful enough for joggers, walkers and entry-level runners. The motor also runs very quietly and comes with a lifetime warranty. It works especially well for interval training where you are quickly swapping from fast to slow speeds. The max speed on this machine is 12 mph with an upper incline of 12 degrees.

Deck Size

The deck of the Horizon T303 measures 20” x 60” (50 x 152 cm), making it suitable for all but the very tallest of people. It also features short arm rails, which is a bonus for a tall person, they won’t get in the way of your hand and arm movement while running.

Deck Cushioning

This model features a three-zone variable cushioning system to minimize the stress impact on the lower body joints. It is designed to absorb the shock of taking off and landing.

Heavy Duty Frame

The Horizon T303 has a heavy-duty frame that makes for a very durable, solid machine. You won’t experience any wobbling or other lateral movement, even when running at the maximum speed of 12 mph. The rugged nature of this machine is indicated by the lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.

Pros

Cons

4. The Sole Fitness F80

The Sole Fitness F80 Treadmill

Foldable

The Sole F80 treadmill is a foldable machine. That makes it versatile in terms of its ability to work with confined spaces. The folding/unfolding process takes place with the push of a button.

Running Track

The Sole F80 gives you a 22 x 60 inch (55 x 152 cm) running area. That’s wider than most, ensuring that larger people aren’t constricted.

Durable Build

The Sole F80 treadmill is an impressively well-built home fitness machine. That’s why Sole is able to provide you with an impressive lifetime warranty on the frame, motor and deck! The maximum weight limit of 375 pounds (170 kg) on this machine is further testimony to its rugged build.

Reversible Deck

The latest version of the Sole F80 provides you with a reversible deck. This, in effect, doubles the lifespan of the running deck.

Pros

Cons

5. Bowflex Treadmill 22

Bowflex Treadmill 22

Large Running Surface

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is the latest offering from Bowflex and what an impressive offering it is! It has a 22” x 60” (55 x 152 cm) running surface to accommodate the tallest runners. That running surface can be tilted more than any other treadmill I’ve encountered for home use. It offers a 5° decline, which may not sound like much, but is pretty steep when you’re actually running on it. The incline is even steeper at 20°. That all adds up to the potential for a very intense workout.

400 Lb Max Weight

The maximum weight capacity on the Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a very impressive 400 pounds (181 kg). That is even more impressive when you consider that this is a folding treadmill. That huge weight capacity is the result of a very sturdy frame and a clever, rigid design.

Advanced Monitor

The monitor on this machine is a standout. It features a huge 22-inch (55 cm) LCD touchscreen that provides stunning visuals. In addition to clear readouts of all of your running diagnostics, there are built-in workout programs. You can also subscribe to the JRNY app to gain access to stunning video workouts that put you all over the world.

Pros

Cons

6. 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill

3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill

Motor

The 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill provides you with a 4.0 HP motor. That allows you to get a quiet, smooth running operation. The max speed that you get is 12 mph. A 4.0 HP motor is pretty standard for a high-end treadmill, as is the max speed of 12 mph.

Ortho Flex Shock System

The 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill provides excellent zero impact running with its Ortho Flex shock absorbing system. It provides you with a generous amount of cushioning over the motor. It also provides you with a thicker level of treadmill belt to run on than the majority of other high-end treadmills that are available. This means less impact on the body and a smoother, more natural running experience.

Large Running Belt

The running belt on the 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill measures 22 inches (55 cm) wide by 62 inches (157 cm) long. This is wider and longer than you find on most home-use treadmills, allowing for even the tallest and widest of users to get a free, natural running motion

Incline

The 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill comes with an auto incline from 0 – 15 degrees. This allows you to ramp up the intensity of your workout smoothly and without interruption.

8 Programs

You get 8 inbuilt programs on the 3G Cardio Elite console. This provides you with all of the variety and professionally designed training guidance you need to achieve your training goals. You also get a fitness test to allow you to monitor your progress.

Console

The console on this treadmill provides you with three screens, including a heart rate tracker, LCD dot matrix track to track distance and a workout matrix screen that tracks your speed, distance and calories burned. The console also features an integrated fan to keep you cool.

Max User Weight

The 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill has a max user weight of 400 pounds (181 kg). It is an extremely solid and well-built machine that is constructed to commercial gym standards. The weight of the machine is 386 pounds (175 kg). That is very heavy for a home-use treadmill. This is also a large treadmill, with dimensions of 84” x 35.5” x 58” (213 x 90 x 147 cm).

Unmatched Lifetime Frame Warranty

3G offers an outstanding warranty on this treadmill. Here’s what you get:

  • Lifetime warranty on the frame, deck and motor
  • 10 years warranty on the parts
  • 2 years warranty on labor

That is pretty impressive, affording you full protection in all areas.

Pros

Cons

7. ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill

ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill

Running Deck

The ProForm Pro 2000 features a 60” x 22” (152 x 55 cm) running deck to suit taller users. The deck can be inclined to 15° and declined to -3°. The max user weight of this machine is 300 lbs (136 kg), which is on the borderline for treadmills for taller people.

3.5 HP Motor

This machine features a 3.5 CHP motor that is capable of reaching a top speed of 12 mph. This motor is especially quiet and powerful, ensuring that your run is smooth and continuous.

Cushioned Deck

The ProForm Pro 2000 features ProShox cushioning technology to minimize joint impact when running. It also has 2.5 inch (6.3 cm) balance precision belts rollers to ensure that the running bed runs fluidly with no jerkiness.

Inbuilt Programs

This unit has a massive 50 inbuilt programs. While that may seem like overkill, it will ensure that you are able to do a different workout every time you get on the machine. That prevents boredom and keeps your body guessing. These workouts have been designed to achieve specific goals by fitness professionals.

Pros

Cons

8. Schwinn 570T Treadmill

Schwinn 570T Treadmill

Running Surface

The Schwinn 570T Treadmill features a 60” x 20” (152 x 50 cm) running surface that will meet the needs of most taller users. The running belt is made of 2 mm (1/16 in) thick double ply to reduce foot impact. This is also a reversible deck, which effectively doubles its life. The deck also features a six cell design Softrak cushioning system to further lighten the load on your ankles, knees and hips.

Built-In Programs

There are 26 programs built into the monitor of this unit. They cover every aspect of fitness and every fitness level. The programs are designed by fitness professionals to help users reach their specific workout goals.

Monitor

The monitor on the Schwinn 570T features a DualTrack blue, backlit LCD display. It also has a media shelf, in console speakers with an MP3 port, USB charging and adjustable 3 speed fan.

Pros

Cons

9. NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill

Quiet Operation

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 provides you with a 3.75 continuous horsepower motor that delivers an extremely quiet operation. That is great news if you are planning to put your treadmill in your lounge room. The powerful motor also ensures that the belt runs very smoothly in simulation of an outdoor environment.

Control Panel

The 1750 provides you with a 10-inch (25.4 cm) touch screen control panel. It’s connected to iFit and even allows you to virtually run anywhere on the planet thanks to Google Maps. This treadmill’s incline, decline functionality allows you to really experience the ups and downs of running on the world’s most famous trails.

50 Programs

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is one of the most program loaded treadmills that you will ever come across. You get a whopping fifty built-in workouts! Your training options include speed training, interval training, calorie burn and heart rate control.

Large Running Belt

The 22 x 60-inch (55 x 152 cm) running belt on this treadmill provides you with plenty of room to move through your natural running gait, regardless of your height. This belt is at least two inches (5 cm) wider than most competitive models in its price range.

Cushioning On/Off

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 gives you the option of switching the built-in running deck cushioning on or off. This is very handy for runners who are preparing for a road race.

Warranty

Frame: 10 years

Parts: 2 years

Labor: 1 year

Pros

Cons

10. LifeSpan Fitness Folding Treadmill

LifeSpan Fitness Folding Treadmill

Running Surface

The LifeSpan Fitness Folding treadmill provides high specs and high performance. The running deck measures 20 x 56 inches (50 x 142 cm) and is fitted with a 2-ply treadbelt that moves along wide rollers. The belt is also supported by 8 shock absorbers for maximum joint support. It has an incline-decline range of 12 to -5 degrees and a max speed of 10 miles per hour.

Folding Design

This is a folding treadmill that features an EZ-Drop system that makes it easy to fold the machine for vertical storage. The folded treadmill requires just 32” x 32” (81 x 81 cm) of floorspace. The max weight capacity on this treadmill is 350 pounds (158 kg).

Monitor

The monitor on the Lifestyle Fitness Folding Treadmill features an interactive 7” (17 cm) LCD touch screen with unique mirroring abilities. This makes it easy and enjoyable to watch all of your favorite YouTube shows while you are getting your sweat on. There are 15 programs built into the monitor, including six incline, five speed, two heart rate control and two user designed options.

Pros

Cons

Buyer’s Guide

How To Choose The Best Treadmill For Tall Runners

Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Treadmill For Tall Runners

Belt Size

The size of the running belt of your treadmill will determine how naturally and fluidly you will be able to run. If you have ever tried using a running belt that is too small for you, you know how uncomfortable it can be.

A tall person (one who is more than 6 feet (1.82 m) tall), will need a treadmill that is at least 60 inches (152 cm) in length. If your workout area is confined, it may pay to look for a folding treadmill.

In terms of width, a tall person should look for a machine that has at least a 20 inch (50 cm) running belt width. Anything less than that and you will probably feel too constricted as you run.

Console Height

Many console heights are not high enough for taller people to get a good view of what’s going on on the screen. The last thing you want to do is have to squint or, worse still, stoop down to read your workout diagnostics. Look for a console that is high enough that you can easily see when you are running. You may even be able to find a treadmill that provides you with an adjustable console height.

Many console heights are not high enough for taller people to get a good view of what’s going on on the screen. The last thing you want to do is have to squint or, worse still, stoop down to read your workout diagnostics.

Price

Prices for taller treadmill users are generally more expensive than those for shorter people. Keep in mind that you pay for what you get. A treadmill is a long term investment so it may pay off over the long run to spend a little bit more to get a more durable and usable machine.

Motor

The strength of the motor is the key to getting a smooth, consistent running experience. A treadmill motor’s strength is measured in horsepower (HP). Because taller people bring more weight to the treadmill belt, a higher motor capacity is required. You should look for a unit that has a minimum output power of 3 HP.

Go here for our review of the best underbed treadmills on the market.

Weight Capacity

All treadmills feature their maximum weight capacity in the specifications. This is the most weight recommended by the manufacturer that should go on the treadmill belt. As a taller person, you will weigh more than the average treadmill user.

The weight capacity gives you a good indication of the strength of the frame and the general ruggedness of the construction. The best treadmills for tall people should have a max user weight of more than 300 pounds (136 kg).

Weight capacity has a direct connection to the cost of the machine. You generally won’t find a treadmill with a weight capacity of more than 250 pounds (113 kg) for less than $500.

Warranty

The warranty is a very important part of your overall purchase. The warranty should be divided into the following parts:

  • Frame
  • Motor
  • Deck
  • Parts
  • Labor

The best treadmills will provide you with a lifetime warranty on both the frame and the motor. You should expect a parts warranty of at least 5 years. The standard labor warranty is 12 months, though a lot of manufacturers double this.

The degree to which the company is willing to stand behind their product through the warranty will give you a good indication of the quality of the machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

A treadmill for a tall person should be at least 60 inches (152 cm) long on the running belt. It should also be a minimum of 20 inches (50 cm) wide. That length and width will allow most taller people to get a natural running stride with any movement constriction. People who are more than 5’5” (1.65 m) will need a running belt that is at least 65 inches (165 cm) long and 22 inches (55 cm) wide.

Yes, a treadmill is good for long-distance running. It will allow you to clock up the miles in order to develop running endurance regardless of the weather conditions outside. You can also vary the running belt incline and change up the speed and intensity of the machine to vary your workouts and develop muscular endurance and lower body strength, both of which are important for long-distance running.

The treadmill with the longest running belt is the 3G Cardio Elite commercial grade treadmill. It has a running belt that is 62 inches (157 cm) long and 22 inches (55 cm) wide. That makes it ideal for tall people, even those who are 6’5” (1.95 m) and over. Check review #6 above for a full review of this awesome treadmill for taller runners.

Yes, you can be too heavy for a treadmill. All treadmills have a maximum user weight on their specifications. If you exceed this user weight, you will put stress on the motor which may, with prolonged use, cause damage. It will also prevent the running belt of the machine from operating smoothly.

Conclusion

Tall runners have to shop a little harder than the average person to find the best treadmills to meet their needs. In this article, we’ve done the heavy lifting work for you and identified the best treadmill for tall runners on the market right now, along with the 9 next best as well. Our top pick is the Sole F85, with its 400-pound (181 kg) max weight, large running belt and powerful motor. However, we endorse all of our best treadmills for taller users. Choose the one that best suits your needs and your budget.