Manual treadmills do not use electrical power to spin the running belt. Instead, a person powers the belt with their stride. Unlike an electric treadmill, with a o

Doctor that moves the belt at a consistent speed, a person is responsible for the machine’s speed. The slower or faster they walk, the faster or slower the belt will move

Quick links

• General use manual t
  
  
  readmill: Force Fitmill Manual Treadmill
• Basic manual treadmill: InMotion T900 Manual Treadmill
• Manual treadmill for walking: ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill
• Folding manual treadmill: Weslo CardioStride 4.0 Manual Folding Treadmill
• Curved manual treadmill: Johnson Fitness and Wellness Cascade Ultra Runner Treadmill

Manual vs. motorized treadmills 

Manual and motorized treadmills offer different features. The most obvious difference is that manual treadmills do not need electric cables or a motor.

ResearchTrusted Source shows that manual treadmills can result in higher levels of exertion. They also provide a closer experience to overground running.

Because manual treadmills do not require electricity to operate, they are more environmentally friendly than their motorized equivalents. Manual treadmills are also less likely to malfunction due to motor issues or electronic faults and are therefore more sustainable.

The table below makes some further comparisons between manual and motorized treadmills.

shows that both types of treadmills can alter a person’s running or walking form. An individual is more likely to lean forward or hold on to the grips when using a treadmill, which is different from their outdoor running form.

However, in a 2020 reviewTrusted Source, researchers did not find a major difference between a person’s gait when running inside on a treadmill versus running outside.

Both manual and motorized treadmills also support steady-state or high intensity interval training (HIIT) running styles. Steady-state running involves running at a continuous pace for a period of time, while HIIT running involves higher intensity intervals with periods of recovery. Research from 2017Trusted Source and 2015Trusted Source shows that either version of running can help increase cardio health and decrease body fat.

How to choose

A person interested in purchasing a manual treadmill may wish to consider the following factors before making a purchase:

• cost, including shipping
• the company’s returns policy
• available space
• size of the treadmill
• incline options
• user reviews
• brand reputation
• personal fitness and health goals

Additionally, before buying a treadmill, an individual can speak with their doctor or healthcare professional to discuss safe and effective workout options according to their overall health.

List of products

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.

The following information is correct at the time of publication:

General use manual treadmill:
Force Fitmill Manual Treadmill

This model features magnetic resistance settings and a set incline of 13.5%. The treadmill can accommodate both running and walking activities.

Some additional features include the following:

• foldable for storage, with a hydraulic mechanism to lower the deck slowly
• wheels for transportation
• dual flywheels for a stable response to user input
• safety grips
• 16 levels of magnetic resistance
• 53 inch (in) running length

With the Force Fitmill, Sunny Health & Fitness also offers:

• free standard shipping
• a 30-day return period
• warranties on varying parts

The Force Fitmill Manual Treadmill is available on the manufacturer’s