The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best Treadmill in India [September,2023]

Staying fit and active is important for maintaining good physical and mental health. A treadmill offers the convenience of getting in your daily cardio workout right at home. With so many options available, choosing the right treadmill that meets your requirements and budget can be confusing. This comprehensive guide will help you decide the best treadmill brand and model to buy in India in 2023.

How to Choose the Best Treadmill – Buying Guide

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a treadmill for home use:

1. Motor Power

The motor is the heart of the treadmill and determines the speed and inclination control. Look for a continuous duty motor with minimum 2.0 HP for walking and light jogging, and 2.5 to 3.0 HP for running. Higher HP allows higher speeds and longer duty cycles.

2. Running Surface Area

The belt length should be adequate for your height. Standard length is 16” x 50”. Shorter decks up to 13” suit lighter users. Wide decks of 18-20” are more comfortable. Longer decks of 60-63” are better for taller users.

3. Cushioning

Proper cushioning reduces impact on your joints. Advanced cushioning systems like Flex Decks provide more shock absorption and comfort especially for runners.

4. Incline Options

Manual incline up to 10-15% is good enough for walking. Motorized incline up to 40% is better for intense training. Automatic incline adjustment syncs elevation with virtual courses.

5. Speed and Controls

Look for speed range of 0.5 – 18 km/h for walking and up to 21 km/h for running. Easy-reach control panels allow quick speed and incline changes. One-touch buttons for start/stop, speed and incline are convenient to use.

6. Safety Features

Must-have safety features include overload and overheat motor protection, safety clip, auto stop on lifting from surface, and handrails.

7. Noise Level

Check the noise rating if you want to use the treadmill while others are sleeping or working nearby. Under 65 dB noise level is considered quiet.

8. Display Console

Basic LED/LCD display shows speed, incline, distance, time, calories. Advanced touchscreen displays offer access to exercise programs, internet and entertainment options.

9. Warranty

Look for minimum 1 year comprehensive warranty. Frame and motor should have over 5 years warranty. Belt warranty is around 1-2 years.

10. Budget

Treadmills range from ₹15,000 to ₹5,00,000 and above. Set a budget and look for models in your price range with maximum features.

Top 10 Treadmill Brands in India

Here are the top 10 best treadmill brands in India:

1. Motorised Treadmill – Powermax Fitness

With over 15 years of experience, Powermax Fitness is one of the leading treadmill brands in India.

Key Features:

• 2.0 to 3.0 HP DC motors
• Running deck size: 16” x 50”
• Manual and motorized incline up to 15%
• 5” – 7” LCD display with 18 workout programs
• Max user weight: 100 kg
• Speed up to 14 km/h
• Safety key and auto-stop function
• 1 year warranty on parts & labor

Price Range: ₹25,000 to ₹60,000

Pros: Wide range. Good quality motors. Effective shock absorption.

Cons: After-sales service could be better.

Best Models: Powermax Fitness UrbanTrek TD-M4, Powermax Fitness TDM-97

Reviews: 4.1/5 (Amazon)

Website: Powermax Fitness

2. Durafit Treadmill – Durafit

Durafit offers premium quality treadmills with advanced features at reasonable prices.

Key Features:

• 2.5 to 3 HP DC motors
• 16” x 55” running surface
• Motorized incline up to 15%
• AirSoft PLUS shock absorption
• 5” LCD display with 12 programs
• Max user weight: 120 kg
• Speed up to 16 km/h
• Safety key, auto stop
• 2 years warranty on motor

Price Range: ₹35,000 to ₹85,000

Pros: Powerful motors. Low noise. Good warranty.

Cons: Limited display features.

Best Models: Durafit Rocker, Durafit Thunder II

Reviews: 4.3/5 (Amazon)

Website: Durafit

3. Fitkit FT200 Series – Fitkit

Known for their premium quality and competitive pricing, Fitkit offers a wide range of treadmills.

Key Features:

• 2.5 to 3 HP motors
• 16” x 55” track
• Manual and motorized incline
• Max 15 km/h speed
• 5” LCD display with 12 programs
• Shock absorption – AirSoft
• Max user weight – 100 kg
• Safety features
• 1 year warranty

Price Range: ₹32,000 to ₹1,00,000

Pros: Advanced designs. Quiet motors. Effective shock absorption.

Cons: Limited display features in lower models.

Best Models: Fitkit FT320, FT390

Reviews: 4.1/5 (Amazon)

Website: Fitkit

4. Runner Treadmills – Runner

Known for advanced features at affordable pricing, Runner offers treadmills for every budget.

Key Features:

• 2 to 3 HP DC motors
• 16” x 50” to 16” x 55” track
• Manual and motorized incline
• 5” to 7” LCD display with programs
• AirSoft cushioning system
• Max user weight: 100 kg
• Safety features
• 1 year parts & labor warranty

Price Range: ₹25,000 to ₹1,00,000

Pros: Value for money. Good features. Effective cushioning.

Cons: After sales support could be better.

Best Models: Runner Asteroid, Runner Meteor

Reviews: 3.9/5 (Amazon)

Website: Amazon

5. Cockatoo Treadmills – Cockatoo

Cockatoo offers premium treadmills with advanced features for home use.

Key Features:

• 3.0 to 4.0 HP DC motors
• 16” x 55” track length
• Motorized incline up to 40%
• Flex decks shock absorption
• 10” HD touchscreen display
• Built-in cooling fan
• Max 18 km/h speed
• Max user weight: 120 kg
• Safety features
• 3 years motor warranty

Price Range: ₹60,000 to ₹2,50,000

Pros: Powerful motors. Large running surface. Effective cooling.

Cons: Expensive models.

Best Models: Cockatoo Bronx, Cockatoo Milan

Reviews: 4.5/5 (Amazon)

Website: Cockatoo Fitness

6. Proline Treadmills – Proline Fitness

Known for their premium quality and innovative features, Proline Fitness offers high-performance treadmills.

Key Features:

• 3.0 to 4.0 HP AC motors
• 16” x 60” track length
• Motorized incline up to 40%
• Pro Response cushioning
• 10” HD touchscreen
• Cooling fans and Bluetooth speakers
• Max 20 km/h speed
• Max user weight – 150 kg
• 3 years motor warranty

Price Range: ₹70,000 to ₹3,50,000

Pros: Powerful, quiet motors. Extra long decks. Effective cooling.

Cons: Very expensive models.

Best Models: Proline 120, Proline 180

Reviews: 4.7/5 (Amazon)

Website: Proline Fitness

7. Optima Treadmills – Optima Fitness

Optima Fitness specializes in premium quality treadmills with innovative technology.

Key Features:

• 3.0 to 4.0 HP motors
• 16” x 60” track length
• Motorized incline up to 40%
• Flexzone Shock Absorption
• 15” HD touchscreen display
• Cooling fans, speakers
• Max 20 km/h speed
• Max user weight: 150 kg
• 3 years warranty on motor

Price Range: ₹90,000 to ₹4,50,000

Pros: Advanced shock absorption. Immersive display experience.

Cons: Significantly expensive.

Best Models: Optima ST90, Optima ST100

Reviews: 4.8/5 (Amazon)

Website: Amazon

8. LifeSpan Treadmills

Known for their commercial-grade quality, LifeSpan is a leading treadmill brand from the USA.

Key Features:

• 3.0 to 3.5 HP motors
• 20” x 60” track length
• Motorized incline up to 15%
• Shock absorption – FlexDeck
• 10” touchscreen display
• Integrated fans, speakers, Bluetooth
• Max 20 km/h speed
• Max user weight: 160 kg
• Lifetime frame warranty

Price Range: ₹1,10,000 to ₹6,00,000

Pros: Extremely durable. Extra wide running deck. Effective cushioning.

Cons: Very expensive. Limited presence in India.

Best Models: LifeSpan TR1200i, LifeSpan TR4000i

Reviews: 4.7/5 (Amazon)

Website: Amazon

9. NordicTrack Treadmills

Known for their innovative features, NordicTrack from USA offers premium smart treadmills.

Key Features:

• 3.5 to 4.0 CHP motors
• 20” x 60” track length
• Motorized incline up to 40%
• Advanced cushioning
• 10” Smart HD touchscreen
• Integrated cooling fans
• Max 22 km/h speed
• Max weight: 135 kg
• Frame warranty: Lifetime

Price Range: ₹1,20,000 to ₹7,00,000

Pros: Immersive interactive training. Commercial grade build.

Cons: Significantly expensive. Limited presence.

Best Models: NordicTrack Commercial 1750, NordicTrack Commercial 2950

Reviews: 4.7/5 (Amazon)

Website: NordicTrack India

10. True Treadmills

Known for their space-saving designs, True Fitness offers high quality treadmills.

Key Features:

• 2.5 to 3.5 HP motors
• 16” x 50” track length
• Motorized incline up to 15%
• Advanced cushioning system
• 7” LCD display
• SpaceSaver folding system
• Max 14 km/h speed
• Max weight – 135 kg
• Frame warranty: Lifetime

Price Range: ₹80,000 to ₹3,50,000

Pros: Foldable design. Suitable for small spaces. Durable build.

Cons: Limited to walking and light jogging.

Best Models: True PS300, True PS800

Reviews: 4.5/5 (Amazon)

Website: True Fitness

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Treadmill Brand

Here are some tips on key factors to evaluate when selecting the best treadmill brand in India:

• Product Range – Choose a brand that offers multiple models to suit your requirements and budget.
• Motor Power – Prefer brands that use high quality motors with minimum 2.5 HP power.
• Cushioning – Look for effective cushioning technology like Flex Deck to ensure joint safety.
• Incline and Speed – Brands that offer good incline range and high top speeds are better for intense workouts.
• Display Console – Opt for models with bright touchscreens offering interactive features.
• Noise – Reputed brands maintain lower decibel levels for quiet operation.
• Warranty – Brands offering long term warranties reflect durability and confidence.
• After Sales Service – Check the brand’s service network and response time in your location.
• Budget – Choose a brand offering good features at a price matching your budget.
• Reviews – User reviews on ecommerce sites and forums indicate real-world performance.

Benefits of Having a Home Treadmill

Here are some of the benefits of owning a treadmill at home:

• Convenience – Get in your daily workouts without having to go to the gym
• Accessibility – Use it any time of day, especially for busy individuals
• Save Time – Avoid travel time to the gym
• Customized Workouts – Tailor exercise routines to your fitness levels
• Monitor Progress – Track fitness data like speed, calories etc.
• Safe – Controlled environment, no vehicle traffic unlike outdoor running
• Low Impact – Treadmills are gentler on joints than outdoor surfaces
• Weather Resistant – Provides workout option irrespective of weather conditions
• Interactive Features – Virtual training and entertainment options make workouts interesting
• Health Benefits – Regular use helps in weight loss, cardiovascular health, building strength and stamina

Factors Affecting Treadmill Prices in India

Treadmill prices in India can range from under ₹20,000 to over ₹5 lakhs based on these key factors:

• Motor Power – Higher HP motors cost more. Prices increase significantly above 3 HP.
• Cushioning Technology – Advanced cushioning like Flex Deck increases price.
• Incline Type – Motorized incline costs more than manual. Higher incline range also increases cost.
• Belt Size – Larger belt sizes cost more. Commercial models have bigger decks.
• Maximum Speed – Higher top speeds require more powerful motors.
• Display Console – Large smart HD touchscreens cost a premium over simple LCD displays.
• Additional Features – Cooling fans, speakers, Bluetooth push up cost.
• Shock Absorption – Advanced shock absorption systems increase prices but improve joint safety.
• Frame and Build Quality – Heavy duty steel frames and commercial grade builds are pricier.
• Brand Name – Premium brands necessarily cost more than economy brands for similar specs.
• Warranty Coverage – Longer comprehensive warranties reflect better quality and cost more.
• After Sales Service – Good after sales support comes at a price.

Treadmill Buying Guide for Beginners

For first-time treadmill buyers, here is a simplified buying guide:

• Assess your requirements realistically – walking or running, what speed and incline range you need. This will determine the motor power and other specs you need.
• Measure your stride length and height to select appropriate belt size for comfortable running surface. Standard is 50″ length x 16″ width.
• Prioritize good shock absorption like Flex Decks to cushion your joints, especially if you are overweight or elderly.
• Manual incline models up to 10-15% are fine for walking. For running/hills pick motorized incline up to 40%.
• Choose reputed brands with proven service record and minimum 1-2 years comprehensive warranty. Register warranty promptly.
• Compare features and pricing across models that meet your requirements. Reviews from actual buyers provide additional insights.
• Set a maximum budget and buy the model offering best features at your price point. Consider value for money rather than absolute lowest prices.
• Pick models with intuitive controls, pre-set programs and useful dashboard data to stay motivated. Add-ons like cooling fan help.
• Install in a dedicated area away from walls/furniture. Use mats to protect floors and reduce vibration/noise. Lubricate belt periodically.
• Start slow, focus on posture and technique. Increase speed and intensity gradually to maximize benefits while minimizing injury risk.

Safety Tips While Using a Treadmill

Follow these essential safety tips when using your home treadmill:

• Supervise children at all times and keep pets away. Do not allow children under age 12
• Wear proper running shoes with good traction to avoid slips. Avoid loose clothing that can get caught.
• Stand on side rails when starting treadmill to avoid sudden motion. Start at low speeds.
• Use safety clip securely clipped to clothes to stop machine if you fall.
• Keep treadmill away from water or damp areas to prevent electric shocks.
• Inspect belt condition regularly and lubricate as per instructions to prevent snaps.
• Monitor heart rate and don’t overexert. Maintain proper hydration.
• Look straight ahead while running. Keep back straight and gaze focused to avoid missteps.
• Hold on to handles if increasing speed or incline to avoid losing balance.
• Cool down adequately after your workout and stretch muscles gently.
• Keep emergency numbers handy. Know how to stop the machine quickly in case of problems.
• Ensure sufficient clearance space behind and around treadmill. Keep away from walls or furniture.
• Place on a level surface without carpets/rugs underneath to prevent instability.
• Check assembly and operation in manual if buying pre-used models before use.

Following basic safety guidelines will help you have an effective and injury-free workout experience using your home treadmill.

FAQs

Q: How much space do I need for a treadmill at home?

A: You need a minimum clearance of 2 ft on both sides and 6 ft behind the treadmill for safe operation. The more space you have, the better.

Q: Which is better – manual or motorized incline?

A: Motorized incline is better for intense training as you can simulate hiking trails. But manual incline models are cheaper for walking workouts.

Q: Should I lubricate the treadmill regularly?

A: Yes, periodic lubrication as per the manufacturer’s recommendations enhances belt life and reduces friction noise. Use only approved lubes.

Q: Can I fold and store away my treadmill when not in use?

A: Foldable treadmills with hydraulic lifts allow you to store vertically when not in use. But leaving assembled is better for belt’s health.

Q: What maintenance does a treadmill need?

A: Key maintenance is belt lubrication, inspecting belt condition, checking bolts/parts, and cleaning the deck. Follow the brand’s maintenance schedule.

Q: How long do treadmill motors last?

A: With proper maintenance and usage within limits, expect around 5 years lifespan for motors. Higher HP motors tend to last longer.

Q: What treadmill features help avoid injuries?

A: Key features are cushioning like Flex Deck, adequate deck size, safety clip, handrails and gradual accelerating/incline changes.