Table Of Contents
- 1 Best Treadmill For Tall Runners Comparison Table
- 2 1. Sole F85 Treadmill
- 3 2. Bowflex T10 Treadmill
- 4 3. Horizon Fitness T303 Treadmill
- 5 4. The Sole Fitness F80
- 6 5. Bowflex Treadmill 22
- 7 6. 3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill
- 8 7. ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
- 9 8. Schwinn 570T Treadmill
- 10 9. NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill
- 11 10. LifeSpan Fitness Folding Treadmill
- 12 Buyer’s Guide
- 13 Frequently Asked Questions
- 14 Conclusion
Best Treadmill For Tall Runners Comparison Table
Sole F85 Treadmill
Read Full Review
- Large running deck
- 375 lb (170 kg) weight capacity
- Max speed 12 mph
Bowflex T10 Treadmill
Read Full Review
- Solid and durable
- 400 lb (181 kg) max weight capacity
- Wireless chest strap included
Horizon Fitness T303 Treadmill
Read Full Review
- Large running deck
- Deck cushioning
- Lifetime framing and motor warranty
The Sole Fitness F80
Read Full Review
- Foldable
- Easy access button
- Bluetooth enabled
Bowflex Treadmill 22
Read Full Review
- 400 lb (181 kg) max weight
- 60” x 22” (152 x 55 cm) running deck
- 20° incline
3G Cardio Elite Runner Treadmill
Read Full Review
- 8 Built-in programs
- 15-degree incline
- Orthoplex Shock Absorption
ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
Read Full Review
- 50 programs
- Rebound Pro Deck Cushioning technology
- 2.5-inch (6.3 cm) precision belt rollers
Schwinn 570T Treadmill
Read Full Review
- Reversible deck
- 26 programs
- Dual track LCD display
NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill
Read Full Review
- Large running belt
- Cushion on/off option
- 50 workout programs
LifeSpan Fitness Folding Treadmill
Read Full Review
- 15 inbuilt programs
- 8 impact-absorbing shocks
- Very durable frame
1. Sole F85 Treadmill
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
Pros
- Large running deck
- 400 lb (181 kg) weight capacity
- Max speed 12 mph
- Chest strap included
- 0 - 15 degree incline
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Cons
- Large footprint
2. Bowflex T10 Treadmill
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
JRNY App
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
Pros
- Solid and durable
- 400 lb (181 kg) max weight capacity
- Wireless chest strap included
- 3 CHP Motor
- Max speed 12 mph
Cons
- Quite expensive
3. 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
- Large running deck
- Deck cushioning
- Lifetime framing and motor warranty
- Max speed 12 mph
- Folds for storage
Cons
- Incline limited to 12°
4. The Sole Fitness F80
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
- Folding treadmill
- Easy access button
- Bluetooth enabled
- Large running bed
- Max weight 375 pounds (170 kg)
- 15% incline
Cons
- Short side rails
- Hard to assemble
- Heavy
- Only 10 built-in programs
5. 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
- 400 lb (181 kg) max weight
- 60” x 22” (152 x 55 cm) running deck
- Folding treadmill
- 15-year frame warranty
- 22-inch (55 cm) touchscreen
Cons
- Very large footprint
6. 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
- 8 Built-in programs
- 15-degree incline
- Ortho Flex Shock Absorption
- One Touch Controls
- Outstanding Warranty
Cons
- No Bluetooth
- Small display screen
- Expensive
7. 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
- 50 programs
- Proshox cushioning technology
- 2.5-inch (6.3 cm) precision belt rollers
- 3.5 CHP motor
- 60” x 22” (152 x 55 cm) running deck
Cons
- Max weight limited to 300 lbs (136 kg)
8. Schwinn 570T Treadmill
Running Surface
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
- Reversible deck
- 26 programs
- Dual track LCD display
- 60” x 20” (152 x 50 cm) running deck
- 6 cell Softrak cushioning
Cons
- Quite noisy
9. NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill
Quiet Operation
Control Panel
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
Warranty
Frame: 10 years
Parts: 2 years
Labor: 1 year
Pros
- Large running belt
- Cushion on/off option
- 50 programs
- 3.75 CHP motor
- 10-inch (25.4 cm) touchscreen
Cons
- Difficult to assemble
10. 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
- 15 inbuilt programs
- 8 impact-absorbing shocks
- Very durable frame
- High quality belt
- EZ-Drop folding system
Cons
- No fan
Buyer’s Guide
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.
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
How Long Should A Treadmill Be For A Tall Person?
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.
Is Treadmill Good For Long Distance Running?
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.
What Treadmill Has The Longest Belt?
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.
Can You Be Too Heavy For A Treadmill?
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.