Treadmills are a great way to exercise, but if you have bad knees, finding one that’s right for you can be challenging.
We’ve all been there!
Fortunately, various treadmills are explicitly designed for those with knee issues. From adjustable inclines to shock absorption, these treadmills offer the support your knees need to stay healthy while you get your workout in.
In this article, we will explore the 7 best treadmills for bad knees on the market so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Why You Should Trust Us
When finding the perfect treadmill for your needs, it is essential to trust the experts. We have put together this comprehensive guide on the bad knees treadmills.
We have consulted with physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons to provide you with the best information possible.
In addition, we have also reviewed the current scientific literature to ensure that our findings are based on the latest research available. We hope you enjoy reading our top picks for the best treadmills for knee issues.
Best Treadmills For Bad Knees in 2023
1. NordicTrack Commercial Series
The NordicTrack 1750 treadmill is an excellent choice for runners who are experiencing knee pain. It helps to reduce stress and pressure on the knee joints while running, allowing them to recover faster. From my experience using this treadmill, I could literally feel the stress lifting off my knees, a relief I hadn’t felt in years.
Key Specifications
| Brand | NordicTrack |
| Material | Other |
| Max Speed | 12 Miles Per Hour |
| Maximum Horsepower | 3.75 |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 350 Pounds |
The Elite trainers can be adjusted easily using a remote control. I’ve tried other treadmills like the ‘Bowflex BXT216’, but the ease of remote control adjustment on the NordicTrack is far superior.
The touchscreen is large and easy to use, and the LED indicators are bright and clear. When I first laid my eyes on the touchscreen, I was impressed. It felt like operating a high-end smartphone.
The sound system is a very powerful one, and it can be amplified for better listening. But, to be honest, the sound can sometimes get a bit too loud, bordering on distorted.
ActivePulse Technology
The ActivePulse technology, designed to mimic natural running patterns, ensures you get the most out of your workout time. Being a seasoned runner, I could see this technology genuinely reflecting natural running mechanics.
With this treadmill, you can control the incline and decline settings to adjust the difficulty level accordingly.
News flash! The redesigned deck sits lower, allowing you to move your legs freely and have a better range of motion. Compared to my old ‘ProForm Pro 2000’, my legs definitely feel less constricted. You can adjust the speed and incline/decline levels to suit your running style.
AutoAdjust Technology
With the AutoAdjust™ Technology, you can set the treadmill to your personal needs and requirements.
This feature literally adapts to your running pace; it’s like having a personal trainer built into the machine. The machine will adjust the speed and incline/decline to suit your pace. It will also help you to avoid overuse and injuries.
The NordicTrack 1750 is made with quality materials and features to ensure that it lasts for many years. I’ve owned mine for about six months now, and it still runs as if it’s brand new. The machine is easy to use and clean, making it ideal for any fitness center.
Pros
- Comfortable deck cushioning
- Decline & incline setting
- Financing options available
Cons
- It takes time to assemble
Why Should I Choose It?
This treadmill is excellent for runners who want to reduce stress and pressure on their knee joints while running. It also makes it easier for them to recover from knee injuries.
2. Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 – Best For Strengthens Legs
The Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 is a powerful, portable treadmill capable of burning up to 3.5 times the calories of a regular elliptical machine. Yes, it’s true!
From my own experience using it, I could really feel the burn in my legs, way more than I ever did on a regular treadmill.
Key Specifications
| Brand | Bowflex |
| Material | Other |
| Max Speed | 7 Miles Per Hour |
| Maximum Horsepower | Nil |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 300 Pounds |
The TC20 is a good option for people who want to get a little cardio during work. Unlike the NordicTrack 1750 I used before, the portability of this machine is a huge plus for me.
The treadmill is not heavy so it won’t be an issue to carry it around to the gym or home.
It’s great because you can run on it in the morning, walk on it in the afternoon, and do some fast walking in the evening. The versatility of this machine is unmatched; it truly adapts to my ever-changing daily routine. It’s a lot of versatility for one machine.
It’s not as powerful as other treadmills on the market, but it’s still good enough for people who aren’t looking to compete in triathlons.
That said, if you are like me and looking for a machine that can help you train for a marathon, this might not be the right fit. It also has a backlit LCD that tracks speed, distance, time, and burned calories.
Although, the LCD can be difficult to read in very bright or dark conditions.
This treadmill is simple to use, so even if you are unfamiliar with how treadmills work, I found it incredibly user-friendly. It felt as if I’d been using it for years, right from day one. You shouldn’t have any problems using it.
It’s got plenty of power, and it’s also got a 300-pound capacity so that you can use it for a long time.
Bang! You’ve been hit with!
It’s also easy to set up and put away, which is a major plus for me because I live in a small apartment. So it’s great for people who want to use it for a few workouts a week and then store it when they’re done.
In comparison to my previous treadmill, the ‘ProForm Pro 2000’, setting up the Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 was a breeze.
Pros
- It is easy to store
- Large display
- Lightweight
- Water resistant
Cons
- Too small
Why Should I Choose It?
Overall, the Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 is a good option for people who want to burn a few extra calories and don’t want to spend much money.
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill
As a former fitness instructor, I can attest that the best treadmill for bad back and kneesis one of the essential pieces of equipment for anyone who wants to achieve their fitness goals.
How do I know?
When it comes to the Sunny Health & Fitness model, I’m not just talking about its ability to help you lose weight or burn calories, but also the fact that it’s made for people with knee problems.
Key Specifications
| Brand | Sunny Health & Fitness |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Max Speed | 5 Miles Per Hour |
| Maximum Horsepower | 2.5 |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 295 Pounds |
The Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill is specifically designed for people with knee problems. It’s a lot like a walking machine, but it’s also designed to be used for jogging.
The front-mounted wheels are designed to give you a smooth ride while walking and jogging.
This means that your knees will not get as worn out, and you can do much more jogging than using a traditional treadmill. Astonishing, isn’t it?
The motor is 2.5-peak horsepower, enough to keep you going for a long time. The low step-on height of the machine means that you will have no trouble using it, and the multi-grip handrails will keep you stable and safe during your workouts.
The machine also has a monitor, and it displays a variety of different workout programs.
For example, you can choose from hundreds of cardio and strength training programs.
Pros
- Solid build
- Long guide rails
- Easy to use the monitor
- It comes with transport wheels
Cons
- There is no way to measure your pulse
- No incline
Why Should I Choose It?
In short, the Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill is an excellent machine for people with knee problems and can help you achieve your fitness goals.
4. XTERRA Fitness TR300 Folding Treadmill
The XTERRA Fitness TR300 is an excellent treadmill for bad knees.
Key Specifications
| Brand | XTERRA Fitness |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Max Speed | 10 Miles Per Hour |
| Maximum Horsepower | 2.25 |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 300 Pounds |
First off, the large screen is easy to see from most angles. The display is very bright, and the blue color makes it easy to track the steps. The console is relatively spacious and has space for a bottle of water.
The included exercise programs are excellent. There’s a variety of fitness and running programs, as well as a few yoga programs. There are some beginner and intermediate workout programs too.
The best treadmill for low impact has a top speed of 10 miles per hour but a speed of 8 mph at a 10% incline. That means you will get the best of both worlds with this model.
With the Lift Assist feature, you will never have to worry about falling off the machine.
But one thing’s for sure!
The deck is designed to fold and then lock into place. This makes it easy to use in the gym, and it’s a nice feature for people who have knee problems.
Pros
- Good price
- Enough deck size
- Simple to use the console
Cons
- Speakers are not good
Why Should I Choose It?
Overall, this is a very sturdy machine and easy to assemble. The large screen is easy to see, and the console is roomy enough for a water bottle.
5. ProForm Performance 300i Treadmill
If you are looking for a treadmill to help improve your overall health, then the ProForm Performance 300i is probably the best choice.
Key Specifications
| Brand | ProForm |
| Material | Other |
| Max Speed | 10 Miles Per Hour |
| Maximum Horsepower | 2 |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 300 Pounds |
It’s the best-selling treadmill on Amazon for a reason: it provides a safe, effective, and comfortable workout environment for almost anyone.
Surprisingly enough!
With its large LCD and digital controls, you will be able to see the progress of your workout and the speed and incline of your treadmill.
The ProForm Performance 300i comes with a 16” x 50” belt, ensuring you have plenty of space to move around. The treadmill is soft on the knees and also has a 300-pound user weight capacity, which means you’ll be able to push yourself harder than you think.
What sets this treadmill apart is its QuickSpeed and QuickControl technology.
It has a quick speed setting that increases to 10 MPH for faster workouts. For those who prefer a more challenging workout, the QuickControl setting allows you to manually set the incline and speed.
And you know what?
The ProForm Performance 300i is also equipped with a 2.0 horsepower motor that’s perfect for those looking for an intense workout.
A 5-year warranty backs the ProForm Performance 300i and comes with a frame warranty.
Pros
- Decent build quality
- It comes with 16 workout apps
- Heart rate monitor
Cons
- Narrow walking area
Why Should I Choose It
If you are looking for a treadmill that you can use for various workouts, then you should consider buying the ProForm Performance 300i.
6. Real Relax 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
If you are looking for a treadmill that will not break the bank and will still give you enough workout to get you in shape, then the Real Relax 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill might be the perfect solution.
Key Specifications
| Brand | Real Relax |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Max Speed | 7.6 Miles Per Hour |
| Maximum Horsepower | 2.5 |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 240 Pounds |
It’s very comfortable, easy to use, and has many great features. The running belt is adjustable, and you can adjust the speed and resistance using the remote control.
Bear with me, because I’m going to show you how it is
One of the best things about this treadmill is that it’s super quiet, which is excellent for those with roommates. You can also adjust the speed, resistance, and incline settings by using the remote control.
The display screen is also very clear and shows the current speed, time, distance, calories, and the rest of the stats.
The running belt is made of six layers of flexible material that is shock absorbing. It’s also durable and can handle up to 240 lbs of weight. The motor is 2.25 HP and designed for high efficiency and durability.
The machine is portable; you can move it around the house, apartment, or dorm room.
Pros
- Noiseless operation
- inbuilt Bluetooth player
- It is portable and lightweight
Cons
- If you use it after some time, it heats up.
Why Should I Choose It?
The Relax 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill is an excellent choice for those who want to exercise but do not want to spend too much money.
7. YeYeBest Folding Treadmill – Best Treadmill For Joint Impact
I’ve had a few fitness treadmills before, but none were as small as this one. It’s so compact that it’s great for my apartment and folds up quickly. I can likewise hide the treadmill easily as well.
Key Specifications
| Brand | YeYeBest |
| Material | Silicone |
| Max Speed | Nill |
| Maximum Horsepower | 2.5 |
| Maximum Weight Recommendation | 220 Pounds |
Here’s the scary part! Personally, not for me
I like that there is no cord. I have seen some treadmills with a cable or cord running along the floor, which I’d never want. If there is a power outage, I will end up without a treadmill. YeYeBest doesn’t have that problem.
And treadmills that are easy on the knees have a nice feature. If I am doing cardio, I often want to do it while watching TV. But most treadmills have a TV placed on top of them, which takes up a lot of space.
The YeYeBest is the only treadmill I have found that can be placed next to the couch and still be big enough to watch TV. There is also a device holder on the side that can hold all of your devices.
Pros
- It comes with a table stand
- Infrared speed
- Foldable and compact
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- There is no cord
Why Should I Choose It?
The motor is powerful and quiet. I have only used it for running, but I have heard it’s also great for walking.
Overall, I love this treadmill. I’m sure it’s going to be a long-time favorite.
How We Picked And Tested
We researched the best treadmills for knee issues by reviewing the best-selling models on the market. We also consulted with experts to find the best treadmill for knee issues.
After examining their features, we determined that several treadmills were best suited for people with knee issues. These treadmills typically feature adjustable inclines and shock absorption to help reduce the pain.
Benefits Of Treadmills For Bad Knees
Treadmills are highly beneficial for people with bad knees. They provide a low-impact exercise option that reduces the strain on your joints, allowing you to exercise without exacerbating your knee pain.
The benefits of treadmill workouts for bad knees include the following:
Low-Impact Exercise: Treadmills are a great way to get a low-impact aerobic workout. Running and walking on a treadmill is much less taxing on your joints than running or walking outside on concrete or asphalt.
Improved Range of Motion: The repetitive motion of treadmill running or walking helps to improve the range of motion in your knees. This improvement in your range of motion helps to reduce knee pain and discomfort.
Strengthen the Muscles Surrounding the Knees: Treadmill workouts can help to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knees. This increased strength helps to support and stabilize the knee joint, reducing pain and discomfort.
Improved Balance and Stability: Treadmill workouts can also help to improve your balance and stability, reducing the risk of knee injuries.
Increased Endurance: Treadmill workouts can help you to increase your endurance and improve your overall fitness level. This improved fitness can reduce the risk of knee pain and discomfort.
What To Look For in a Best Treadmill For Bad Knees
When looking for the best treadmill for knees and joints, there are a few key features to consider.
Features
First and foremost, the most crucial feature to look for is a deck that is cushioned and shock-absorbing.
My point is this!
This will help to reduce the impact on your knees with every step.
Additionally, the belt should be wide enough to provide adequate support and allow for a comfortable stride. Furthermore, look for easy-to-use controls, an adjustable incline, and a good warranty.
Good Range
A treadmill good for knees should also provide a good range of motion.
Look for a treadmill with a wide range of speed, incline, and decline settings. This will allow you to find the perfect place for your fitness goals and a comfortable incline or decline to reduce the stress on your knees.
Most treadmills should range up to 12 mph, although some may go up to 15 mph or more.
Low-step Height
The best treadmills for bad knees should also have a low step-up height. Many people with knee problems struggle with getting on and off the treadmill. A low step-up height will make it easier for those with bad knees to get on and off the machine.
The moral of this story?
Additionally, look for a treadmill with a console that is easy to read and understand.
This will not only make your workouts more efficient and effective, but it will also help prevent any potential injuries.
Shock Absorption System
Look for a treadmill with a good shock absorption system.
This will help to cushion and support your knees, reducing the strain and impact on them.
A good shock absorption system should feature a cushioned belt and a high-quality motor that can reduce the impact of the running surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a treadmill good for someone with bad knees?
Some people with bad knees may find a treadmill helpful in their rehabilitation process. A treadmill can help them increase their endurance and improve their overall fitness. However, before using a treadmill, always consult with a doctor to ensure it is safe for you.
Are curved treadmills better for knees?
If you want to save your knees, you don’t need to sacrifice your running. The rubber surface of a curve helps absorb the impact on your joints, preventing injuries that come from pounding the ground.
How can I keep my knees from hurting on a treadmill?
To keep your knees from hurting on the treadmill, use a cushion to help support your knees. You can also adjust the speed and incline to find a comfortable level.
Which treadmill is easiest on joints?
Some people may prefer a treadmill with a low incline, while others may prefer a treadmill with a higher incline.
Wrapping Up!
A treadmill is a good option for people with bad knees because it can help them stay active and reduce the risk of injury.
It is important to choose the right type of treadmill for your needs and to be careful while using it, but overall a treadmill can be a helpful tool for people with bad knees.
We recommend the Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 treadmill for your knee problems.
