In my earlier post, I discussed the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill. I wanted to cover a wider range of treadmill types and it seemed apt to cover foldable ones given the cold weather. Quite a few of us will not be able to make it to the gym in bad weather conditions like blizzards and sub zero temperatures. However, missing out on fitness routines to wait for the right weather would be a shame. So foldable treadmills, which are compact, portable, and easy to store in homes, are a wise option. However, folding treadmills have both some merits and some demerits over non-foldable ones.
Here’s a snapshot;
|
Particular |
Folding Treadmills |
Non-folding Treadmills |
|
Stability |
Not very stable given its light weight |
Heavy weighted and very stable |
|
Price |
Economy |
Medium to Expensive |
|
Compactness |
Very compact. Ideal for home usage but smaller Belts (usually 17″W x 45″L) |
Large. Ideal for commercial use or for gyms. Larger Belts (usually 20″W x 40″L) |
|
Portability |
Easy to carry, move and store. |
Not easy to carry or move. |
|
Set up |
Easy set up. Can be done by lay persons |
Some treadmills require professional help setting up |
|
Features |
Run basic features in both programs and accessories. Offer limited in speed and inclination values. |
Carry a variety of program features as well as accessories. Provide higher speed and incline values. |
|
User Weight Capacity |
Generally limited up to 250 lbs |
Usually supports user up to 350 to 400 lbs |
|
Warranty |
Generally lifetime for frame, 5 years on motor and a year for parts and labour. Some give only a total 1 year cover only. Varies with brands. |
Up to 15 yrs for frame, 10 yrs for motor and up to 5 yrs for parts and an year for labour. Varies with brands. |
Each one of us must look into the considerations listed above apart from the regional topography, climate conditions, gym availability, other facilities and time, reach constraints before opting for foldable or non-foldable treadmills, and choose one that suits their particular needs.