A quick look at the best curved treadmills
- Best overall: Assault Fitness AssaultRunner Elite
- Best value: SB Fitness Equipment CT400 Self-Generated Curved Treadmill
- Best design: NOHrD Sprintbok Curved Manual Treadmill
- Most customizable: TrueForm Runner Treadmill
- Best for small spaces: IN10CT Curved Manual Treadmill
Curved treadmills have grown in popularity among runners and athletes wanting to diversify their training.
What is a curved treadmill?
Distinct from conventional treadmills, curved models have a concave running surface and are nonmotorized, so your speed is governed by your own stride and effort rather than machine controls.
Because they don’t require electricity, curved treadmills can be placed almost anywhere and usually need less upkeep than motor-driven treadmills.
Beyond saving power, curved treadmills may offer several advantages, particularly for reducing injury risk and refining running mechanics (, ).
That said, running on a curved treadmill is typically more demanding and may require an adjustment period. You generally expend more energy and adopt a slightly different running pattern compared with a standard motorized treadmill (, ).
How we chose these treadmills
The marketplace includes a variety of curved treadmills that differ in cost, capabilities, and workout options.
The curved treadmills featured here were selected based on these factors:
- Training options: Many of the picks include structured workouts, such as preset sessions or multiple manual resistance settings.
- Features: Several models provide extras like Bluetooth, transport wheels, and integrated touch displays.
- Price: We included a range of price levels but emphasized machines that deliver solid value for the cost.
- Customer reviews: These treadmills have generally favorable user feedback online.
- Warranties: Most come with coverage for the frame, belt, or parts to safeguard your investment.
- Vetting: The products on this list were vetted to ensure they meet Healthline’s standards for brand integrity and wellness coverage. You can read more about our vetting process.
Below are five of the top curved treadmills for 2022.
Healthline’s picks of the best curved treadmills of 2022
Best overall
Assault Fitness AssaultRunner Elite
Price: $$
Assault Fitness machines are common in commercial gyms and home setups. With its robust construction and feature set, the AssaultRunner Elite earns our top pick for best curved treadmill of 2022.
This model includes a digital console, bottle holders, a selection of heart rate and interval programs, plus Bluetooth and ANT+ support for streaming workouts from popular fitness apps.
It boasts a sturdy steel frame and corrosion-resistant fittings. It’s also lighter than some competitors and comes with built-in transport wheels for easier moving.
Shop now at Assault FitnessBest value
SB Fitness Equipment CT400 Self-Generated Curved Treadmill
Price: $
If you want a curved treadmill without a steep price, consider the SB Fitness model.
This machine offers three levels of manual magnetic resistance, a clear digital readout, and flexible slats designed to improve shock absorption.
It also includes transport wheels and a handle for straightforward storage and movement between sessions.
Additionally, it features multigrip handlebars and several workout modes, including intervals and targets for time, distance, calories, and heart rate.
Shop now at WalmartBest design
NOHrD Sprintbok Curved Manual Treadmill
Price: $$$
This model showcases a hardwood frame and 62 moving slats along the belt to help dampen impact and ease stress on joints.
NOHrD sources sustainable wood for the Sprintbok, and the slats are coated in linoleum for long-lasting wear.
It also comes with a 17.3-inch (44-cm) tablet for tracking performance and progress.
A range of preloaded workouts and scenic routes are accessible via the Sprintbok app.
However, it carries a fairly high price and only a 1-year warranty, which might be a shortcoming for budget-conscious buyers. (Registering the treadmill in the first year can extend coverage to 2 years.)
Shop now at AmazonMost customizable
TrueForm Runner Treadmill
Price: $$$
The TrueForm Runner stands out among curved treadmills for its range of customization choices.
You can pick from five surface options: field turf, rubber, red or blue track material, and a specialized barefoot surface.
The treadmill also features an LED monitor and a gentle curve that aids speed control and promotes an even stride.
With a weight limit up to 500 lbs. (227 kg), it’s built to be durable and accommodate many users.
Still, it is heavier and bulkier than some other curved treadmills, which matters if you have limited space.
Shop now at TrueFormBest for small spaces
IN10CT Curved Manual Treadmill
Price: $$
Although curved treadmills tend to be sizable, the IN10CT offers a more compact footprint, making it suitable for smaller areas.
It uses rubber slats to lessen joint impact ().
It also includes a digital monitor to help you monitor metrics.
This model is lighter than many curved treadmills and includes transport wheels and a rear handle for easier moving or storage.
However, it lacks preprogrammed workouts and adjustable resistance levels, which may disappoint users who want advanced training features.
Shop now at AmazonHow do these curved treadmills compare?
– Price
– Warranty
– Weight capacity
– Training programs
– Additional features
Assault Fitness AssaultRunner Elite
$$
10 years on frame, 3 years on non-wear parts, 1 year on labor, lifetime on belt
400 lbs. (182 kg)
Quick Start, Intervals (20/10, 10/20, Custom), Targets (Time, Distance, Calories, Heart Rate), and Competition Mode
• Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
• built-in training programs
• sweat-resistant handgrips
• transport wheels
• rear handle
• water bottle holders
SB Fitness Equipment CT400
$
10 years on frame, 7 years on parts, 2 years on console, 1 year on labor
375 lbs. (170 kg)
Intervals (20/10, 10/20, Custom) and Targets (Time, Distance, Calories, Heart Rate)
• 3 levels of manual magnetic resistance
• multigrip handlebars
• transport wheels
• rear handle
• built-in training programs
NOHrD Sprintbok
$$$
1 year
353 lbs. (160 kg)
preprogrammed workouts available on Sprintbok app
built-in tablet with app
TrueForm Runner
$$$
20 years on frame, 3 or 5 years on tread (varies by tread type), 5 years on tread mechanisms, 3 years on display, 1 year on labor
500 lbs. (227 kg)
manual mode
• customizable tread
• LED monitor
• transport wheels
IN10CT Curved Manual Treadmill
$$
5 years on frame, 3 years on other parts
400 lbs. (182 kg)
manual mode
• digital display
• transport wheels
• rear handle
How to choose the best curved treadmill
Consider these elements when shopping for a curved treadmill:
- Training options: Some models offer only basic functionality, while others have multiple resistance levels or integrated workout programs.
- Price: Curved treadmills span a wide price range. Pick a machine that fits your budget and take the warranty into account. Also consider extra costs like shipping or assembly.
- Space: If floor space is limited, opt for a more compact model or one with transport wheels for simple storage.
Benefits of curved treadmills
Curved treadmills lack motors and are driven solely by your motion, making them an energy-efficient, low-maintenance alternative to standard treadmills.
They can also raise workout intensity and increase calorie burn.
One small study of 13 male runners found that 4 minutes on a curved treadmill produced higher heart rate and oxygen uptake than running on a motorized treadmill ().
A review suggests running on a curved treadmill can improve gait, posture, symmetry, and balance ().
Enhancing your running form can boost performance and, over time, may lower the energy needed to sustain a given pace ().
Additionally, some evidence indicates that running on a curved treadmill can lessen joint impact, potentially reducing injury risk ().
Frequently asked questions
Is it harder to run on a curved treadmill?
Because curved treadmills are self-powered, they can be trickier to start and maintain momentum. Their mechanics differ from motorized treadmills, so newcomers may need time to adapt.
Nonetheless, many users prefer curved treadmills because they can intensify workouts and increase calorie expenditure ().
Are curved treadmills better than regular treadmills?
Compared with motorized treadmills, curved models can boost calorie burn and reduce joint loading ().
However, they often cost more and are bulkier. There are also fewer models available and typically fewer customization and training features.
Who are curved treadmills for?
Curved treadmills suit people aiming to refine their gait, lower joint stress, and elevate workout intensity.
Because they don’t rely on electricity, they’re also a good option for those seeking a sturdy, energy-efficient treadmill alternative.
The bottom line
Curved treadmills make a valuable addition to many home gyms.
They can reduce joint strain, help you burn more calories, conserve energy, and improve running mechanics.
By weighing factors like cost, footprint, and available training features, you should be able to find the right curved treadmill to match your running goals.
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