Top 11 Best Treadmill For Bad Knees/Arthritis Problems 2024 – Protect Your Joints

Exercising is an important part of a healthy life, even when the joints are not in the best shape.

Bad knees can be a result of joint injury or certain health conditions, such as arthritis or rheumatism.

So, even in the event of bad knees, moderate to light exercising maintain the functionality and flexibility of the joints.

In other words, it is not recommended to stop exercising, just because your knees are not the greatest.

How to exercise correctly and make the process safe for your knees?

If you enjoy exercising on treadmills, there are machines specially made to reduce the impact on the joints, which is extremely helpful in case of bad knees.

Below you will find everything about it.

11 Best Treadmill For Bad Knees Reviews

01. NordicTrack T 6.5sc – Best Popular Treadmill For Bad Knees

Highlights

• Easy adjustment of the incline and speed by simply pressing a button;
• The deck features FlexSelect cushions for knee protection;
• The motor is adequate for interval training, speed training, and endurance training;
• It offers an easy folding system after each workout;
• Suitable for a user with weights of up to 300 lbs.;

Anyone looking for a versatile treadmill that is capable of protecting bad knees as well might find the ideal product in the form of this NordicTrack treadmill.

It is suitable for light running and walking, and for fast jogging as well.

So, if you just have a knee injury that is keeping you from jogging as you use to, you may want to consider this treadmill, as it could upgrade your training once your knees get better.

And regarding fragile knees, this treadmill provides great cushions for taking in all the shocks generated by your movements, so they don’t take a toll on your knees.

In case you’re interested in getting a personal trainer, the treadmill is compatible with the iFit app, with the note that it can be used without the app as well.

To skip the registration process for iFit, simply press and hold the iFit logo button for 30 seconds. This will allow you to enter the treadmill’s menu without any registration.

02. XTERRA Fitness TR150 – Best Quality Treadmill For Knee Problem

Highlights

• Generous running or walking surface;
• A wide LCD screen, of 5 inches, for easy reading performance details;
• The speed can be easily adjusted, allowing users of all levels to use it;
• Folding and unfolding can be done with a pull of a knob;
• Three incline levels that can be adjusted manually;

When looking for a folding treadmill, the only concern is to make sure the machine is still sturdy enough to be safe during workouts.

This treadmill from Xterra provides an easy folding and transportation system while being resilient enough to withstand daily training sessions.

So, it is expected for the treadmill to be rather heavy, since its construction is solid and durable.

The display of the machine is large and the speed buttons are in easy reach, allowing the user to make fast adjustments whenever there’s a need in this direction.

The handles feature pulse sensors, measuring the pulse as physical effort is deposited. And, of course, the deck provides soft cushioning for knee safety.

03. Sunny Health & Fitness Folding – Best Treadmill For Arthritis

Highlights

• Large display for easy tracking of performances;
• Deck capable of effectively absorbing shocks;
• Pulse sensors mounted on the handles;
• Bottle and device holder;
• Hydraulic drop system for easy folding;

This treadmill from Sunny can be a good option for anyone looking to find a compact, foldable, and easy to put away treadmill.

At the same time, the machine is very stable, allowing jogging sessions at higher speeds.

Besides the ability to absorb shocks, this treadmill also provides 9 preset training programs, so that workouts are never boring.

It provides a large display and support for your mobile device, for added comfort and convenience.

And when training is done, the treadmill can be easily folded with the help of a drop-off system.

This will make folding easy while protecting the room’s floor.

Even though is a compact treadmill, it can easily withstand weights of up to 220 lbs., making it a reliable exercising machine for a better state of health and improved fitness.

04. Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill

Highlights

• The deck features three different cushioning areas, of variable response;
• Extremely easy folding system;
• Fan and speakers built in the treadmill;
• Keys providing quick programming;
• Low RPM motor for minimizing noise;

It is not that hard to get a good number of features without spending a small fortune on a treadmill.

This particular product offers good value for the price tag, being an enjoyable treadmill capable of dealing with bad knees as well.

Speaking of bad knees, the deck features three different cushioning areas, each of these providing a different level of support and shock absorption.

Thus, the “push-off zone”, located at the end of the deck, will be firmer, while the “impact zone”, at the front of the deck when the sole hits the surface as you stride, will be softer, absorbing shocks better.

In the middle, there’s the “transition zone”, which is a balanced combination of the previously mentioned zones.

Apart from this, the treadmill is rather straightforward and easy to use.

05. ProForm Performance 300i

Highlights

• Compatible with the iFit app;
• Large display for convenient tracking of performance-related details;
• A simple button press can adjust the speed or incline;
• Adequate cushioning for the deck, for effective shock absorption;
• Foldable model, with transportation wheels;

Living in an apartment means, in most cases, a lack of space when it comes to large exercise machines.

However, with the help of technology, it is possible to find today compact and foldable machines that can be used in small apartments as well.

This particular model could easily serve well within an apartment since it is foldable and easy to move out of the way.

The only downside is that it’s not such a suitable option for taller people, who have a height of over 6 feet, since it may be too small for their safety and comfort.

But if you don’t fall into this category, there are high chances you’ll enjoy the treadmill.

The deck provides cushioning in the right area, the machine is easy to assemble, and it works rather quietly.

06. MaxKare Folding Treadmill

Highlights

• Large LCD with an adjustable position;
• 15 workout programs provided by the machine;
• The handrail monitors heart rate and can be used to adjust the speed, to start or stop the treadmill;
• A quiet motor that doesn’t exceed 60 dB at top speed;
• Shock absorption is available throughout the entire deck;

Is it possible to find a reliable treadmill, suitable for bad knees and a small apartment, while shopping on a budget?

It seems like this product has what it takes to answer all of these needs. It is among the very few treadmill models that provide cushioning throughout the entire deck.

This is possible due to the multi-layer design of the belt, which includes strong support layers and a shock absorption layer.

At the same time, it is a silent treadmill, not producing too much noise even when it is used with superior speed levels.

Together with the fact that it is foldable and easy to move around, due to a set of wheels, all of these features make this treadmill an ideal candidate for small living areas and bad knees.

 

07. Schwinn 810

Highlights

• The treadmill provides 16 workout programs;
• The machine’s computer can be set for two different users;
• A foldable model that is easy to use and store;
• Compatible with the Explore the World app, if a tablet is attached;
• An easy assembly that takes about 30 minutes;

It is possible to buy a treadmill on a budget and still enjoy great features and a solid machine.

Of course, when it comes to affordable products, the technology-related features are not the greatest, meaning it will provide a simpler display and basic connectivity features.

The same happens in the case of this treadmill. It can be a great machine if you’re not looking to overspend but wish to enjoy safe, comfortable, and enjoyable workouts.

With a deck capable of absorbing shocks very well, the treadmill will protect your bad knees and will make the entire workout extremely silent.

This is a plus if you’re living in an apartment and don’t wish to bother your neighbors with your workout.

Besides this, working out with this treadmill will never get boring, with the 16 available programs and the possibility to enjoy the Explore the World app.

08. UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill

Highlights

• Can be used for walking with a standing desk and for running as a regular treadmill;
• It can be folded and stored when it is not used;
• A wide walking belt that measures almost 17 inches in width;
• Can be controlled with a remote as well;
• Can hold up to 265 lbs. of body weight;

Are you spending too much time at a desk, working? Are you experiencing a lack of energy, stiff limbs, and discomfort in the lower back area?

These are all symptoms of spending way too much time sitting down at a desk.

To get rid of all of these and improve your overall health, you could use a treadmill with a standing desk.

This way, you can get work done while being able to walk, exercising this way, without having to go to a gym or leaving the office.

The best part about having this 2-in-1 treadmill is that it can be easily used as a regular treadmill, for running.

It provides a wide belt and shock-absorbing surface, to keep your knees safe at all times.

09. Sunny Health & Fitness Walking Treadmill

Highlights

• A generous and wide deck for comfortable walking or running;
• It can support up to 295 lbs. of body weight;
• The design of the deck allows the absorption of shocks;
• Simple and easy-to-use console;
• Large handrails, with non-slip handles, for improved balance and stability;

Joint-related injuries, especially if they occur at an older age, require extended periods of recovery.

During these periods, we tend to exercise less and gain more weight.

The good news is that we can exercise in the comfort of our homes even if we’re dealing with knee or another kind of joint or limb injury.

This particular treadmill is a good option because it provides extensive handrails, meant to offer additional support for the user.

This way, even if the joints are bad, exercising is possible in a safe manner.

It is worth mentioning that the treadmill can be used for losing weight and acquiring better fitness since it can be easily used for running as well.

It can withstand speeds of up to 5 miles per hour and weights of up to 295 lbs.

10. LifeSpan Fitness TR3000i

Highlights

• Colored display that provides three different dashboards;
• Convenient buttons for fast changing of speed and incline level;
• The console monitors performance data during a workout;
• Folding and transportation is easy;
• 21 workouts provided by the treadmill that can be used right away;

This sturdy treadmill from LifeSpan can be easily folded, despite its rather massive design and frame.

So, if you don’t want the treadmill to be lying around when it’s not in use, with a silent and easy-to-use folding system the machine can be packed and transported to its storage location.

The treadmill is great for walking, running, and even jogging, being equipped with a resilient and durable motor and featuring eight compression shocks distributed under the deck.

This way, the user gets to enjoy his or her preferred workout, while keeping the joints safe at all times.

The treadmill can be used as soon as it arrives since its assembly doesn’t take long and 21 different workouts can be accessed immediately.

11. Folding Treadmill for Home Use

Highlights

• A treadmill that can be used as it is or under a desk, as the handles can be folded;
• A very little assembly is required, as the product comes mostly installed;
• Can be controlled with a remote, which arrives in the package;
• Once it is folded the treadmill is slim and easy to store;
• The belt features shock absorbents and a non-slip surface;

This product is probably one of the most affordable and easy-to-use folding treadmills.

It is ideal for those looking to walk and run as well, as it provides options for all kinds of users.

The deck, which is capable of absorbing shocks effectively, allows proper exercising even in the case of bad knees.

Some users noticed a decrease in pain when using the stairs after exercising on the treadmill.

So, exercising brings benefits even when dealing with a knee condition. It can be used under a standing desk, for exercising lightly during working hours, or it can be used as a treadmill, for working out and losing weight.

Buying Considerations of Best Treadmill For Bad Knees

Speed control panel

Before purchasing a treadmill for bad knees, make sure the speed control panel offers easy adjustments.

This way, if you feel any discomfort or pain in the knees, as you exercise, you can reduce the intensity of the workout right away.

In other words, this control panel should be in reach, allowing you to make comfortable adjustments without stopping your exercise.

Special buttons on the control panel for speed adjustment are a must in this case, as well as an emergency stop button or key.

After all, safety is the main concern, especially when working out at home since no one is keeping an eye on you.

Incline

The majority of treadmills on the market offer the possibility to incline the running or walking belt, which adds a higher degree of difficulty to your workout session.

This can be an important feature if you want to enjoy more intense workouts or you’re looking to lose weight. Even if you simply walk on the treadmill, adding a higher incline level can help you burn more calories.

Thus, you need to consider whether this feature is an important aspect of your future workout sessions.

It is important to mention that you don’t have to use the incline all the time if you don’t want to.

However, it is a great feature to have around in case your training sessions became too easy and you wish to spice things up a little.

Running surface

When selecting a treadmill, one of the most important aspects is to make sure the running surface can accommodate your stride and body width.

You should be able to move safely and comfortably, whether you’re looking to walk or run.

This is even more important if the treadmill features handlebars on the sides.

It would be highly unpleasant to hit the handlebars, motor cover upfront, or side rails during training.

When this happens, it is mainly because the running surface is too narrow and short for the user.

Thus, always check the dimensions of the running surface, making sure it is wide and long enough for your use.

When you select a treadmill correctly, you will be able to unroll intense jogging sessions comfortably, without having to worry you’ll bump into anything.

Cushioning

Because we talked about the best treadmill for bad knees, the existence of proper cushioning in the deck of the treadmill is extremely important in this case.

Cushioning in the deck means the treadmill is capable of taking in the shocks produced by running, keeping them away from affecting the knees.

When this cushioning doesn’t exist, the knees are the ones in charge of taking in all the shocks.

This can turn into a painful process, especially when dealing with injured knees or knees suffering from various health conditions.

So, because exercising is important even in the case of bad knees, a treadmill equipped with the right level of cushioning can be a very helpful addition to your daily or weekly routine.

However, you should know that cushioning may differ from one treadmill to another.

Some treadmills have cushioning throughout the entire surface of the deck, due to a multi-layer design.

Other treadmills provide cushioning in certain areas, more precisely in high-impact areas, which are usually in the front of the deck.

Decide which option is better in your case, based on how you plan to use the treadmill.

Weight capacity

This is another important aspect when looking to purchase a treadmill.

Not only should a treadmill be capable of withstanding your body’s weight, but it should do so during extended use periods.

Thus, no matter how long or often you wish to use the machine, it will not get damaged due to weight-related limits.

So, always check the weight limit of a treadmill before making a purchase.

As a general rule, invest in a treadmill that is above your weight limit, instead of taking a treadmill that has your weight as an upper limit.

This way you make sure that the weight capacity of the treadmill will not be pushed too much, as it can lead to premature damages.

Benefits of Treadmill Running

• It boosts the user’s mental health and promotes higher motivation levels;
• The user is in control at all times, adjusting the training level based on his or her fitness level;
• It promotes better cardiovascular health, protecting the heart and keeping it healthy;
• A treadmill offers a convenient, private, and comfortable way of exercising;
• Constant treadmill running promotes weight loss;
• It makes the joints stronger and more flexible, even when they suffer due to various conditions;
• In the long term it can increase the density of bones, making them stronger and more resilient;
• With the right cushioning, running on a treadmill is safer for joints than running on asphalt or other hard surfaces;
• Provides great aid in training for courses and marathons, regardless of the weather;
• It will aid in building bigger muscles, not just in the legs but also in the core area;
• It is extremely easy to run on a treadmill;

How to Operate Treadmill With Knee Pain

• If your knees are painful when walking, consider applying warm compresses on the area, to relax the knees before a workout. A hot shower can have the same kind of effect;
• Always wear the right kind of shoes, suitable for running, which provide the support your feet need during physical effort;
• Always choose to use a cushioned treadmill, to avoid putting additional stress on the knees;
• Use the handrails while exercising, to avoid injuries in case you lose balance;
• Attach the safety clip of the treadmill to your T-shirt, so that it will be actioned in case you fall, making the treadmill come to a stop;
• If there isn’t a safety clip, make sure an emergency button is in your immediate reach, in case of need;
• Before using a treadmill, always perform light stretches to warm up your joints and prepare them for physical effort;
• Begin the training with a low walking speed, while holding onto the handles. Walk this way for 3 to 5 minutes;
• Walk on the center of the belt and stay focused, looking forward to maintaining a good balance;
• It is possible to add a bit of incline to your exercise, to make the muscles work a bit harder, growing them stronger and more capable of supporting your joints;
• In case you’re not used to working out, don’t walk more than 5 minutes per day at first. Then gradually increase the duration as you become comfortable with the procedure;
• At the end of the workout, always walk at a slow speed to cool off and relax the muscles.

What is The Best Treadmill For Bad Knees?

Nordictrack tends to be a favorite among people who deal with bad knees but wish to exercise periodically in a safe manner.

With proper cushioning and high-quality construction, this treadmill is capable of answering a wide range of requirements.

It is also worth mentioning that a NordicTrack treadmill can offer a wide array of exercising programs, allowing the user to change the training routine and avoid boredom when it comes to workout sessions.

Why Nordictrack is The Best Brand For Treadmills For Bad Knees?

Excellent cushioning is one of the main features to look for when planning to buy a treadmill for bad knees.

This feature, provided by the treadmill’s platform will ensure that the knees and other joints are not subjected to stress during workout sessions.

And at this chapter Norditrack excels, providing great cushioning for joint protection.

Also, the brand offers affordable treadmills, which can be folded for space-saving, without compromising on quality.

How to Choose The Right Treadmill For Bad Knees

• The running area should match your stride, width, and gait, for comfortable exercising;
• The treadmill should provide adequate cushioning for absorbing knee shocks as you run or walk;
• The speed count should be easy to adjust and be available in small increments;
• It should be easy to use, with a user-friendly control panel;
• Make sure the treadmill can support your body’s weight, even during prolonged training sessions;
• If you want a foldable treadmill, make sure it can be folded with ease;

FAQ’s Best Treadmill For Someone With Bad Knees

Can I use a treadmill if I have bad knees?

The answer to this question is yes, you can use a treadmill for exercising even if you have bad knees, but only if you use the treadmill correctly.

Also, it would be extremely useful for the treadmill to provide cushioning so that it effectively absorbs shocks instead of your knees.

If this exercising machine is used right, the condition of your knees can be significantly improved, as stronger muscles mean a better balance and support for your knees, which diminishes the pain and discomfort you may experience.

Yet, again, choose the right treadmill for bad knees and use it adequately, increasing the duration and intensity of the training as you build some resistance.

Is it okay to walk on a treadmill if I am experiencing knee pain?

Walking is one of the best ways to improve the mobility of your knees, especially if they are painful or stiff.

A treadmill can be used for walking only since you don’t depend on the weather to do this kind of exercise.

Walking with regularity on a treadmill will strengthen your knees and help you enjoy a higher level of mobility, regardless if you suffered a knee injury or you’re dealing with a condition affecting your knees, such as arthritis.

However, do make sure you’re exercising according to your doctor’s recommendations, without exaggerating or performing movements that may inflict too much tension and pressure on your knees.

How can I make a treadmill workout gentler on my bad knees?

If you want to exercise on a treadmill and you’re dealing with bad knees as well, you will need to pay attention to how you exercise if you want to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the joints.

Thus, always pay attention to how to exercise and how you’re feeling during a workout.

Make sure your body is properly aligned and that the exercises that you’re performing are not causing any pain or discomfort.

Selecting the right kind of treadmill can also help a lot since the best treadmills for bad knees providing proper cushioning meant to absorb shocks better.

Then, if you experience pain and discomfort in the knees, it would be best to walk on the treadmill and not run.

Of course, do not forget to wear the right kind of shoes when exercising, as the shoe can affect the way your knees feel during workouts.

Practicing a proper body posture and shortening your stride can also have a positive impact on your knees.

However, it is highly recommended to talk to a doctor if you want to train on a treadmill, especially if you suffered knee injuries.

Will a treadmill help me lose weight?

If you’re looking to lose weight, the treadmill is one of the best machines you can use, because it provides the chance to perform cardio workouts.

In case you’re overweight, losing weight means putting less stress on your knees and joints, which can lead to an improvement considering the condition of your knees.

Thus, if burning calories and losing weight are your goals, a treadmill can certainly help.

If it is hard to find an adequate exercising program, getting the help of a professional trainer can guide you through this part, allowing you to exercise right and reach your goals faster.

Is a treadmill best to be used by people with bad knee conditions?

The treadmill, together with the elliptical machine, is the best type of exercise machine that can be used by people with bad knees.

If the treadmill provides proper cushioning, then exercising this way doesn’t involve any kind of risk or danger.

Of course, it is recommended to be mindful when it comes to your training, adjusting it accordingly and stopping it if things become painful or uncomfortable.

Conclusion

Bad knees are not a reason not to exercise on a treadmill. On the contrary, this kind of exercising can lead to stronger knees, which stop being that painful throughout the day.

This can be achieved even if you simply walk on the treadmill.

As long as you are consistent about it, results won’t fail to show.

Still, it is important to choose the best treadmill for bad knees, a treadmill that is wide and long enough for a comfortable stride and provides a good level of cushioning.

When it comes to bad knees, cushioning is essential, as it prevents a direct impact on your knees as you exercise.

References:

https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/best-treadmill-for-bad-knees/

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/knee-pain/treadmill-knee-pain

https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/knee-pain/treadmill-vs-elliptical