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Owning a treadmill is one of the best ways to kickstart your fitness journey. Of course, you want the best exercise machine for your home. There are so many options available on the Canadian market. It’s easy to get overwhelmed about which option you should choose. That’s why we’re here to help!

A combination of tester feedback and our lab tests allowed us to recommend the best treadmills in Canada. We evaluated these options (and many more) based on a few performance areas, including horsepower, speed, incline, and size.

Why Did We Choose These Treadmills in Canada?

Each of the treadmills on our list excels in one category or another. As we did our test lab evaluations, each treadmill started to shine in different ways. These categories were eventually how we decided how each treadmill would fit on our list. Here’s why we chose the best treadmills in Canada.

The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill is the best treadmill in Canada overall. This option features the best incline and speed, as well as the best subscription service we found.

The Sunny Health and Fitness Folding Treadmill was the best folding option on our list. This treadmill uses a soft drop system to ensure that you can easily raise and lower the deck without a fuss.

The CITYSPORTS Walking Treadmill is one of the best treadmills in Canada for small spaces. The compact design slides under furniture when you aren’t using it, so you don’t need a lot of extra floor space.

The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill was the best convertible option we found. This treadmill easily changes from a full-sized handrail treadmill to a flat option with no rails for walking or light jogging.

Speaking of walking, the SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill is the best option if you just want to walk on your treadmill. The low speeds and lower horsepower make this option ideal for walkers of all skill levels.

Finally, the XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill features a larger deck with a longer belt, making it the best choice for taller users. Those who like to run on the treadmill will also appreciate this larger option.

Best Overall

NordicTrack T Series Treadmill

NordicTrack T Series Treadmill + 30-Day iFIT Membership

Features:

It's Great For:

The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill is simply the best treadmill in Canada. This high-quality machine features more options and features than most of the other options we looked at. You have so many options with this treadmill! No matter how you like to work out, you can do so with this powerful machine.

NordicTrack T Series has a full 3 horsepower in the SMART-Response motor. This motor helps optimize cardio and other workout types, including endurance training for marathons. You can find a host of different training programs on the iFit app, which requires a monthly membership. When you purchase this treadmill, it comes with one month of the iFit subscription free of charge to get you started.

Workouts on this app include trainer-led options, where your trainer can adjust your treadmill throughout the less. You can work on full-body training and pre-recorded, on-demand studio classes as well.

The treadmill itself features superior cushioning thanks to the FlexSelect Cushioning option. You can activate this mode to engage the dampeners on the treadmill. If you need a low-impact workout, this is the perfect option for you. The treadmill inclines to an impressive 10%, which is easy to control with the intuitive button panel. When you have a live workout session, your trainer will be able to adjust your treadmill’s incline and speed.

When you’re done using this treadmill, you can fold it in half for compact storage. The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill is a moderately-sized machine while in use, so storage can help free up space while you aren’t using it. It’s simple to use and easy to store, so you have more time to work out!

The Highlights

The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill features FlexSelect Cushioning. This activated mode engages impact dampeners for those who need a low-impact workout. This treadmill folds up so you can store it out of the way when you’re done using it. You can control the incline up to 10%. With your iFit subscription (included for 30 days), your personal trainer can remotely control speed and incline to help you work out more effectively.

  • FlexSelect Cushioning featured engaged dampeners for low-impact workouts
  • Folding design so you can store the treadmill when you aren’t using it
  • Up to a 10% incline, which is adjustable by your personal trainer
  • iFit subscription allows access to guided training or pre-recorded classes

From the Test Lab

“Our testers loved the versatility of this treadmill. Those with joint injuries enjoyed the low-impact options it provided.”

Best Folding

Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill

Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill with Device Holder, Shock Absorption and Incline SF-T4400

Features:

It's Great For:

The Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill is powerful and versatile. It folds up small so you can easily store it when not in use, making it an ideal option for those with smaller home gyms. It also features some great safety features, including an emergency stop clip. When activated, this clip will immediately stop the treadmill.

Aside from those useful features, this treadmill is also great at keeping tabs on you while you work out. There are 9 built-in programs for all skill levels and options for every fitness level. These programs can help you push yourself to be the best that you can be, with guidance in the right direction. The digital monitor also keeps track of time, distance, calories, and pulse. The pulse sensors on the handles help you know when you are entering the most effective period of your workout.

The handle also features built-in buttons to help you control the treadmill. These quick controls include speed adjustment, a stop button, and a start button. If you want to quickly adjust these things, you can easily do it here. On the control panel itself, you’ll find simple buttons that are large and simple to read. The device holder and bottle holder are located here, too. You’ll have everything you need within reach.

The incline is adjusted manually, and there are 3 manual incline options. Because these options are not digital, they can add a whole other dimension to your workout. If you want to increase how intense one of the included programs is, simply adjust the incline for a new challenge. If you often get fatigued or your joints need a little boost, you’ll be happy to know that this treadmill has great shock absorption features. Your legs, knees, and ankles will thank you.

After your workout, you can take advantage of the Soft Drop system. This hydraulic mechanism makes both storing and unfolding your treadmill simple, with a hands-free design and no pieces that might get stuck.

The Highlights

The Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill features a device holder (for your phone or tablet), as well as a bottle holder for easy access. It folds up to save space and features a hydraulic system that makes it simple to unfold. On the control panel, you’ll find an emergency stop clip. If you ever need to stop the treadmill, this clip will immediately stop the treadmill. Experience 9 built-in workout plans to help you get to where you want to be, including options for all skill and fitness levels.

  • Includes a device holder and bottle holder
  • Folds up to save space, perfect for when you’re done with your workout
  • The emergency stop clip immediately stops the treadmill at your command
  • 9 built-in workout plans to help you push your limits

From the Test Lab

“Out testers loved the quick controls on the handles of this treadmill. The built-in programs gave them a nice progression to follow, too.”

Best for Small Spaces

CITYSPORTS Walking Treadmill

CITYSPORTS Treadmills for Home, Under Desk Treadmill Walking Pad Treadmill with Audio Speakers, Slim & Portable Treadmill with Remote & Dual LED Display, Office & Home Treadmills

Features:

It's Great For:

If you live in a smaller space, it can be difficult to find home gym equipment that meets your needs. While there are plenty of treadmills on the Canadian market that take up more space than you have, the CITYSPORTS Walking Treadmill provides a solution. This treadmill doesn’t use handlebars. It’s slim enough to slide under you couch or your bed when you’re done with it.  This convenient treadmill is also powerful and quiet, so you can get your steps in no matter what.

The powerful motor can deliver speeds up to 6.4 km/h without making a sound. With seven layers of noise reduction in the silicon running belt, you’ll be able to quietly get your steps in. This is especially important if you want to work out while others are sleeping or working. If you do want to be heard, you can use the treadmill’s music speaker. You can connect to the treadmill with your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to play your favourite workout music without the headphones.

Next to the speaker is a dual LCD display that keeps track of all your stats as you walk or run. You can keep track of your distance, time, calories, and speed to ensure you meet you goals. Since there are no handlebars, you are free to walk or run at your own pace. You can change speed settings using the wireless remote, so you don’t have to stop to change your settings. It fits right in the palm of your hand, too.

Wide, solid side rails give you a place to rest. These rails allow you to step safely off the treadmill when you are finished, too. The anti-slip belt keeps you comfortable and well-supported while you walk or jog. This lightweight, cost-effective option is a great choice for Canadians who want a little more for their money and don’t have a lot of space in their homes.

The Highlights

The CITYSPORTS Walking Treadmill is extremely quiet, even though it’s powerful. This motor provides strong, stable power with a reduced noise level due to the 7 layers of noise reduction that make up the running belt. This belt is wider than the average under-desk treadmill and comes with anti-slip features, making it perfect for running and jogging. If you live in a smaller space, you can slip this treadmill right under a bed or couch to store it when not in use.

  • Extremely quiet motor, even at the highest settings
  • Wide running belt with anti-slip features
  • 7 layers of noise reduction
  • Easy storage to reduce clutter in small spaces

From the Test Lab

“This compact treadmill was more powerful than expected. We loved how quiet it was while running, too.”

Best Convertible

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill, 2.25HP Superfit Under Desk Electric Treadmill, Installation-Free with Blue Tooth Speaker, Remote Control, APP Control and LED Display, Walking Jogging for Home Office

Features:

It's Great For:

The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill is extremely unique, even on this list. It’s a convertible treadmill. This means that you can use it with or without the handrails. While the handrails are on, you can use it for running. The maximum speed will increase if the handrails are detected. When they are off, you can use this treadmill for jogging and walking. Without the handrails, the maximum speed is greatly reduced (to about 4km/h).

This means that you can use this treadmill as you normally would, but you can also remove the handrails are use it under your desk or for exercises where you only plan to walk. The non-slip belt makes it easy to use this treadmill however you’d like. Don’t be afraid of losing out on your controls, either. Instead of using buttons on the handrails, this treadmill uses a remote to increase or decrease speed.

The monitor is a small LED display near the front of the deck, visible while the handrail is in use and when it isn’t. This simple display shows time, speed, distance, and calories burned so you can keep track even without handrails.

This 5-layer belt helps decrease impact when you walk or run, so your joints will be more comfortable. The belt also includes sound insulation, which helps the treadmill run quieter overall. If you worry about disturbing the rest of your family, you can rest assured that the motor and belt both run smoothly and quietly.

Overall, this is an extremely versatile treadmill that allows you to use it exactly how you want. It’s a great staple for any home gym. When you’re finished with your workout, it folds tighter to the wall than any of the other options on our list. This makes it ideal for smaller home gyms.

The Highlights

The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill features a unique, versatile design. You can run on the treadmill with handrails attached, or jog without them at a slower pace. The smaller deck length is great for shorter uses, particularly runners shorter than about 5’9”. The non-slip belt features 5 layers of compression, cushion, and wear-proofing, so it’s durable enough to last. You’ll find the LED display near the front of the machine, on the deck. Here, you’ll find monitoring for several common metrics, including distance, calories, and speed.

  • 2-in-1 folding design features a versatile jogging and running treadmill
  • A smaller deck is ideal for shorter users
  • The non-slip running belt features 5 layers of compression
  • LED display near the belt displays common monitoring metrics

From the Test Lab

“This treadmill is incredibly versatile. The handrail-free version could even be used as an under-desk treadmill.”

Best for Walking

SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill

SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Exercise Machine - Electric Motorized Treadmill with Downloadable Sports App for Running & Walking - Pairs to Phones, Laptops, & Tablets via Bluetooth - SLFTRD18

Features:

It's Great For:

The SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill is one of the best options for those that prefer to walk on the treadmill. The shorter deck and low speed are perfect for those who don’t want to do much running, especially users in recovery from injuries. The large LCD screen helps all users monitor their workouts closely, with common metrics like distance, time, calories burned, speed, and heart rate.

This treadmill can also connect directly with a fitness app. The FitShow App helps you monitor your progress and connects you with on-demand workout videos and programs. Simply connect your treadmill to your device via Bluetooth and get ready to start pushing your limits.

In addition to FitShow integration, 12 preset training modes can help you get started. These presets get progressively harder, encouraging you to progress through them. The controls to access the training modes are simple, making it simpler than ever to start your fitness journey.

Though this SereneLife treadmill doesn’t take up much room, you can fold it up against the wall when it’s time to stop working out. You’ll have plenty of space left in your home gym with this treadmill. Plus, it’s simple to fold and doesn’t require a lot of strength.

Safety features include two auto-off modes, including a safety key and a shut-off button. Both work to stop the treadmill instantly in case of an emergency. These options might help you feel a little better about using the treadmill.

The Highlights

The SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill links to the FitShow Sports app via Bluetooth, so you can keep track of your workouts and access fitness plans. The digital LCD closely monitors time, distance, speed, calories burned, and heart rate so you can see how you improve over time. The treadmill includes a safety key and shut-off button, both of which immediately stop the machine if there is an emergency. The 12 training presets can help beginners excel and keep experts in shape.

  • Links to FitShow Sports app via Bluetooth
  • Digital LCD display monitors time, distance, speed, calories burned, and heart rate
  • Includes a safety key and shut-off button to stop instantly if there is an emergency
  • 12 training presets for beginners and experts alike

From the Test Lab

“The connectivity on this walking treadmill was great. We loved tracking our progress.”

Best for Tall Users

XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill

XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill

Features:

It's Great For:

XTERRA Fitness’s TRX3500 Folding Treadmill is one of the largest, most powerful options on our list. This impressive treadmill features a long enough deck to accommodate taller runners. The higher weight limit also helps heavier people feel more secure on the belt. Everything about this treadmill is built for convenience, from the larger size to the larger display.

The 6.5” LCD helps you keep track of all the most important workout metrics, including time, speed, pace, distance, incline, pulse, and calories. It also gives you access to the 30 preset workout programs available for you to try. While you’re working your way through those, you don’t even have to lift your hands off the handlebars to change the speed and incline.

The handlebar controls easily allow access to change incline (which ranges up to a whopping 12% incline) and speed, which can increase up to 19km/h (or 12mph). That’s a faster speed and higher incline than most of the other treadmills we looked at. This performance treadmill is great for professionals or those who want all the perks of their gym right at home.

Don’t let the larger size fool you, either. When it’s time to fold it up, the deck raises easily with the Lift Assist system. You can lift it with one hand, and it doesn’t require much strength at all. It folds up neatly wherever you need to store it, ready to go when you want to get your steps in.

The Highlights

The XTERRA Fitness TRX3500 Folding Treadmill uses Handlebar controls, which allow you to control speed and incline without raising your hands. The built-in cooling fan helps keep you cool during your workout. The higher weight capacity makes this the ideal treadmill for heavier users or taller runners. The large backlit LCD tracks important metrics like time, speed, pace, distance, calories, pulse, and incline.

  • Handlebar controls allow you to control speed and incline
  • A built-in cooling fan keeps you from overheating
  • A higher weight limit is ideal for heavier or taller users
  • Large backlit LCD display tracks pulse, incline, time, speed, pace, distance, and calories

From the Test Lab

“This treadmill is huge! The deck was perfect for taller users, and even those who have larger frames.”

Why Trust Us?


We’ve spent years searching far and wide for the best Canadian products to recommend to you. Our extensive experience has taught us what to look for when it comes to home products, mattresses, exercise equipment, and more. We send every product to our test lab, where we perform extensive evaluations. Once those are finished, we send each product home with our team of dedicated testers.

We arrive at our recommendation using their feedback and our test results. When it comes to treadmills, we looked at performance areas like:

  • Horsepower. In treadmills, power is measured in horsepower. Power ratings can determine how well the treadmill works for various exercises. We made sure to include multiple horsepower options for a variety of Canadians. 
  • Speed. The speed of your treadmill determines what you can do with it. Walking, for instance, requires lower speeds. We included the speed range on each treadmill so you can choose the one that’s best for you.
  • Incline. A treadmill’s incline can drastically change the outcomes of your workout. We looked for options with multiple incline levels but included some without as well.
  • Size. The size of the treadmill determines where you can place it, so we made sure to include treadmills in multiple size categories. 

How to Choose a Treadmill in Canada

Treadmills are a staple of any home gym. They are great options for most people who are working on their fitness. Purchasing one for your home can be a great idea. However, choosing one can be a bit more difficult. There are a lot of options available, and most have a long list of variable specifications. So how do you choose? We’re here to help you figure out what treadmill will fit your needs.

Horsepower

The power of your treadmill is measured in horsepower or HP. This rating can determine what you can use your treadmill for, as well as its limits and capabilities.

  • Less than 3.0 HP. Low-horsepower treadmills are great for walking and hiking, especially if you have incline controls. However, they can’t be used for longer periods and aren’t meant for long-distance travelling. 
  • 3.0 HP to 4.0 HP. Treadmills in this range can be great for most types of training. Many affordable treadmills fall in this range. Treadmills closer to 4.0 HP are superior and can be used for most types of training. You shouldn’t use a motor with this HP rating for longer speed training exercises, or more than about 7 miles at a time. 
  • More than 4.0 HP. Only the best treadmills have a horsepower rating this high. Professional treadmills in this category are meant to be used often, and at high speeds over long distances. If you are doing a lot of running or endurance training, you’ll likely want a treadmill with this power rating.

Speed

Treadmills can be fast, but the speed options will determine the upper limits of how fast your treadmill can run. If you are using your treadmill for running only, choose one with a speed up to 9 or 10 miles per hour. Walking can be as little as 2 to 6 miles per hour, and jogging can be at any speed up to about 8 miles per hour.

The speed you need depends on how you’ll use the machine. However, the speed that the machine is capable of is determined by the horsepower of its motor. If you are interested in slowly ramping up your treadmill workouts to include running or jogging, choose a machine that is already capable of reaching these speeds.

Incline

When a treadmill features an incline adjustment, the front of the deck will raise or lower. This incline can have a huge effect on your workout. A steeper incline works your muscles harder, whereas a flat incline is easier on them. Incline adjustment can be done digitally on some of the best treadmills in Canada, but it can also be a manual adjustment.

The more incline levels available, the more variable your workout can be. If you want a challenge, look for inclines between 5% and 10%. While the incline will be available, you can also walk, run, or jog while the treadmill is flat. These adjustments only give you a chance to expand your workouts if you choose.

Size

How much space do you have for your home gym? How tall are your ceilings? Both considerations should be addressed before you shop for a treadmill. Treadmills come in a variety of sizes, and you need to make sure that you have enough floor space to accommodate them. This is especially true if you are tall because taller users require a longer treadmill belt.

Aside from the floor space in your home gym, you need to consider the height of your ceiling. Many treadmills have incline options, which raise the deck by degrees to make workouts more challenging. Make sure that the incline on the treadmill isn’t going to create a hazard to the ceiling of your room.

Keep in mind that the size of a folding treadmill might not matter. Because they can fold up and store out of the way, you can choose an option with a longer deck even if you don’t have the space to keep it set up all the time.

Weight Limit

Every treadmill has a weight limit or capacity. It’s best to stay under this weight limit while using your treadmill. Even if you plan to lose weight, you should choose a treadmill that can accommodate you at your current size. That’s because this is the tested limit under which the treadmill can run normally. Exceeding this limit can result in your treadmill malfunctioning. It may also be unsafe to use the treadmill above the weight limit.

Always pay close attention to the weight limit the manufacturer specifies. If you disregard this limit, it might also void your warranty on the treadmill.

Display and Tracking

Display monitors are common in most modern treadmills. A screen near the control panel will usually display metrics such as calories burned, distance travelled, and speed. These monitors help you keep track of how you’re doing. Some monitors will store this information over time, allowing you to track your progress on your fitness journey.

However, not all displays are created equally. Some displays are simple LCD screens, while others are tablet-sized touch screens with multiple metrics and quick access to logs and programs. The display can be an important part of your workout, so make sure that you consider which type you’d like to use. If you don’t see yourself using one of the larger, more advanced screens, choosing an option that only displays common metrics might be more viable.

Here is a short list of the options that may be displayed on your treadmill’s monitor.

  • Speed. How fast you are running.
  • Distance. How far you’ve run during your workout.
  • Calories Burned. How many calories you’ve burned during your current session.
  • Heart Rate. Helps track heart rate so you can stay in your most effective range, which is different for everyone. 
  • Steps. For tracking your progress or fitness over time.
  • Incline or Program Information. For challenging yourself.
  • Time. How long you’ve been working out. 

These metrics can help you keep track of your fitness journey, but keep in mind that they are calculated with a general formula. The actual amount of calories burned depends on several factors that your treadmill cannot accurately predict. While this metric is a great way to track your fitness, you should be careful about using it in any meaningful way.

Safety Features

Anxious about using a treadmill? Sometimes, accidents happen. You want to do the most you can to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Safety features can help ease your mind and help in a sticky situation. There are a few different features to look for in a treadmill.

First, the emergency stop clip is the most important safety feature you should look for. This clip is usually magnetized. When removed from its spot on the control panel (usually by pulling the cord), the treadmill will come to an instant stop. This is essential for safety situations.

Other options include anti-skid stops on the side of the treadmill, which offer a place to stand when you need to get off the belt for a moment. Anti-slip attachments can ensure that the belt keeps working as intended, too.

These are just a handful of helpful options, but you should consider the best safety features that will ease your mind.

  • Runners should use a belt that is 20” wide and 60” long. A belt this long can help accommodate taller users, especially those over 6 feet tall. 
  • Walkers and some joggers only need a belt that is about 17” wide (up to 20”) and 45” to 60” long. You can choose a smaller belt if you only plan to walk on the treadmill, or if you are very short. 
  • Larger users might want to select an oversized treadmill belt, up to 22” wide and over 60” long. These belts are made for users of all sizes, including larger users. 

Subscriptions and Apps

Some treadmills (like NordicTrack’s options) use apps and subscriptions to help elevate your workout. These subscription services are often monthly or yearly and can include on-demand workout programs, live personal training sessions, and continuous tracking of your progress over time. If you are interested in using your treadmill often (or want to effortlessly keep track of how you’re doing), choosing a treadmill with app integration might be the perfect option for you.

Each luxury treadmill brand has its subscription service. If your treadmill isn’t from one of these brands, you should still check for app integration compatibility. Often, these luxury-brand apps will include integration with other treadmills, especially those with Bluetooth compatibility. Shop around and find a subscription service that works with your treadmill, but also offers programs you’ll use.

Storage

Most Canadians won’t have a lot of room for their home gym. Treadmills can be large machines, especially longer decks for running and taller users. To avoid having your treadmill take up valuable floor space, choose a folding option. Folding treadmills allow you to pull the deck upwards, storing it against the wall. Folding will greatly reduce the footprint of your treadmill and allow you to move around a little easier.

If you have plenty of space, folding isn’t necessary. Storing your treadmill becomes a lot easier when it folds, though. Even if you often go long periods without using your treadmill, having a folding storage option may be incredibly beneficial.

Special Features

Your treadmill may also have a few special features that aren’t necessarily part of your workout. However, these features can help make your time on the treadmill that much better. Special features include a device holder or shelf or a bottle holder for your water bottle. Other options include auxiliary inputs for your phone or music player, as well as built-in speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, and more.

These special features don’t necessarily make your workout any easier. Once you have a treadmill with full connectivity, a bottle holder, and a place to put your phone, you might find yourself more inclined to use it. The value of these special features might be more impressive than you think!

Frequently Asked Questions

Though advice may vary from person to person, many agree that walking up to 30 minutes on the treadmill per day is great for beginners in Canada.

Avoid leaning on the railings of your treadmill. You should also monitor your body and try not to overdo your workouts, particularly if you are just starting.

For most, a speed of about 8mph should be sufficient. Runners may want a faster treadmill, however.