Treadmills occupy considerable space, and even if you are short, even by few centimeters, you cannot fit them into the intended space, making you regret your purchase. Just looking up the dimensions on the manufacturer’s website might not be complete enough to make a comfortable space set up.
However, it is a great way to start on assessing how much space you need minimum. Also, decide now itself if the machine will remain in place even after you work out or will be moved to storage space when not in use. If you decide to tuck them away after use, go for folding models.
In that case, you also need to consider the dimensions of the folded machine and the storage area. So, there are many things to consider while thinking about the space required for your treadmill.
Having a treadmill at home is advantageous in several ways but keeping it in the right place where you can exercise freely is important to gain complete benefit. You can tone your muscles, raise your heartbeat and burn calories conveniently at the comfort of your home when placed aptly.
How much space does a treadmill take up? Usual treadmill dimensions fall between 2 to 3 feet width, 5 to 6 feet length, and 8 to 9 feet height (the height mostly depending on how tall you are). When a little wriggle room is added on all sides to these measures, you get 7 feet width, 12 feet length for optimal placement of this machine.
How to Buy a New Treadmill That Will Fit Into Your Room?
Investing in a treadmill is profitable for fitness improvement, but it stands true only when you can place it in the proper space it demands. An open room with good ventilation and less furniture with a lot of clear space is ideal for placing a treadmill.
Measure the place you can allot in that room and plan to purchase the treadmill that fits well into the space you have on hand. Not all treadmills fit well between 7 x 12 feet dimensions though it is a base measure to start with.
Some luxury models or hefty models are large, so double-check the dimensions and do not rush to a hasty decision. If you are careless in this stage and do not put your measuring tape to work, then you might regret it later when you face reality.
Everyone desires to buy top-notch quality, well-engineered, and ergonomically designed treadmills. Similarly, focusing on the space is also as important as all these qualities. If you have a space shortage, you need to opt for portable and compact treadmills that are easy to move and occupy less space.
Make sure that the treadmill you selected to suit your space is also optimal for your fitness goals otherwise, the actual goal of buying it goes in vain. As they constantly bear your full body weight, they need to be strong and sturdy, along with accommodating your stride length and allowing you to move freely.
As already mentioned, treadmills, on the whole, come in an average size of 3 x 6 x 5 feet length width and height. When you consider the main component of the treadmill belt, which plays a major role in the size of the treadmill, there are a couple of thoughts you might check before finalizing.
Treadmill belts prominently come in a range of 52 inches to 60 inches in length. If you are a tall person, then it is necessary to have a long belt length to accommodate your stride. If you are considering only walking or jogging, a 52 to 54 inches length belt is enough.
On the other hand, if you are planning to run or sprint, the stride length increases and requires a longer treadmill belt. So, your needs also decide which length belt is enough for your treadmill. Choosing the right belt size is influential on the size of the treadmill and its cost.
Is Folding Treadmill a Good Choice if I Have a Space Crunch?
With several models of treadmills flooding the market, the manufacturers are introducing several attractive features to the users. A folding facility is not only useful for saving space but also to make extra room when you are not using the treadmill. Foldability is one such feature with a lot of options.
Few come with proprietary folding mechanisms that protect the treadmill from falling shocked, and others with a one-touch fold that effortlessly folds the treadmill with just a touch. This capability of turning them into a compact machine after use is incredible and is useful in several ways.
Along with space benefits, a foldable treadmill also allows you to clean the machine and the surface under it easily as you can lift its base upright. Transporting and moving them is easier when they are upright. Another important point to check is the cushion offered by the treadmill belt.
The proper cushioning absorbs the shock well every time your foot touches the belt. While these are the advantages of a folding treadmill, few downsides need to be considered carefully.
They tend to break at the folding if they are not of quality build. Also, stability and durability are threatened if you do not check for good engineering and frame strength. So, tread carefully and choose the treadmill with the most benefits and durability.
Tips for Setting Up Your New Treadmill
Having a clearance of at least 2 feet on three sides is necessary for a pleasant treadmill workout. Rear-end requires more space to swing your legs freely, making 5-6 feet as ideal for clearance. Lack of proper space is one of the reasons for injuries.
So, it is important to allow space around the treadmill not only for the comfort of the individual but also for the safety of the user. While you plan to get fit or to lose weight, you should stay protected from injuries and traumas to enjoy and maintain your hard work.
Front side – two feet
The two feet on the front side keep your machine and wall safe. As your complete bodyweight impacts the treadmill, the machine may move a bit along with taking a little stretch. As the treadmill inches closer to the wall, you need to check and move it back to position.
If you do not frequently check for this distance, your machine might bump your wall affecting its durability. Even heat dissipation will become an issue when it is crammed against the wall. Allowing breathability space will help the machine to cool appropriately.
If this flow of air is obstructed, the machine heats up quickly and leads to the damage of sensitive components. It will result in larger damage as you use the machine continuously.
Both sides – two feet
The 2 feet on both sides keep the belt running without unnecessary resistance caused by any obstructions. When you are running, you find it comfortable to roll aside for exiting safely. Also, getting on to the machine with free space is easier.
Rear-end – six feet
Rear-end of a treadmill requires good space as you need to get on and get out from this end. Leaving congested space might not allow you to get down comfortably. Especially when your heart is racing, and you are out of breath, you need to exit comfortably.
Also, while running, you swing your legs to different extremes that might reach few feet out of the machine. So, by keeping a little distance, you will not slam accidentally into any solid object that might cause you to trip on the treadmill.
Even when you fall accidentally from the treadmill and activate the safety feature, this free space will reduce the chances of injury. Otherwise, you will face injury from the solid object as you will have no ground space to roll over.
When you can allow 8 to 9 feet of space around, it is also useful as a free base giving you the freedom to do inclined pushups, walking plank, reverse climbers, and so on.
Vertical height – 8 to 9 feet
Low ceiling rooms are not apt for placing a treadmill. You need a safe height of 9 feet to keep your head safe from touching the ceiling. The raised deck, your height, and an additional 1 to 2 feet height above your head are required for safe running. If you live in a room with low ceilings, a low-profile treadmill should be your first choice
What Is the Average Weight of a Treadmill?
Manual treadmills fall in the lower range of weight, and motorized treadmills are heavier while the range is between 60 lbs to 200 lbs. Sometimes robust treadmills can even weigh 300 lbs.
How Big Is a Treadmill Box?
The treadmills requiring assembly come in the box and measure a maximum of 85” x 40” x 30” length, width, and height in general. While no-assembly treadmills might not come in a box.
How Much Clearance Do I Need for a Treadmill
Usually, 8 to 9 feet is enough, but it is always safe to calculate it according to your requirement by adding the height of the base, your height and add 1 to 2 feet to this measure.
Final Thoughts on Treadmill Dimensions
Prevent injuries and damage to the machine by leaving the required amount of space all around your treadmill. So, you need to calculate the space required by a treadmill considering these important needs.
They offer excellent work out when you place them as recommended. Maintaining the right balance of space, the service it can provide you, and your fitness choices is the key to purchase a suitable treadmill.
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