10 Best Exercise Equipment For Bad Knees 2026 in the United States

The NordicTrack T 6.5 S treadmill offers several features beneficial for someone with bad knees. It includes KeyFlex cushioning that helps reduce joint impact, making walking and light jogging easier on the knees compared to harder surfaces. The adjustable incline (0–10%) and speed (up to 10 MPH) allow you to tailor workouts to your comfort and fitness level, providing a good range of motion and resistance. Its ergonomic design features a 20” wide tread belt for stable footing and a foldable frame for convenient storage, adding to safety and space-saving.

The treadmill supports heart rate monitoring and syncs with fitness apps, helping you control workout intensity and stay motivated. Because it is designed for running and walking, very sensitive knees might still experience discomfort over time. It lacks extra cushioned support beyond the deck padding, so it may not be as gentle as some specialized low-impact machines like ellipticals or recumbent bikes. Many smart features require an iFIT membership, which is an additional cost.

This treadmill is suitable for those seeking adjustable, low-impact walking or jogging equipment with tech features and space efficiency. However, if knee issues are severe, equipment specifically designed for minimal joint stress might be a better choice.

The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 treadmill is a solid choice for people seeking low-impact exercise options suitable for bad knees. Its RunFlex cushioning system reduces joint stress by absorbing shock, making walking or jogging gentler on the knees compared to harder surfaces. The treadmill offers a wide speed range (up to 14 MPH) and a notable incline range (-3% decline to 12% incline), allowing you to adjust resistance and vary workouts without high joint impact. The 22-inch deck width and 60-inch length provide enough room for comfortable movement, while the sturdy alloy steel frame supports users up to 400 pounds, enhancing stability and safety.

The large 24-inch touchscreen can pivot for easy viewing of workout programs or entertainment, which can make exercise more enjoyable and motivating. Many of its smart features, like automatic speed and incline adjustments, heart rate monitoring integration, and AI coaching, require a monthly iFIT Pro membership costing $39. This subscription might be a downside if you prefer a treadmill that functions fully without extra fees. The treadmill is quite heavy (over 260 pounds) despite being foldable, so moving it might need some effort. Assembly is required, which could be tricky without some DIY experience.

This treadmill combines cushioned support and adjustable workout settings well suited for those with knee concerns, making it a good option for users willing to invest in the subscription service for the full experience and who have space to accommodate its size.

The NordicTrack T Series 5 Starter Treadmill is a solid option for those looking for low-impact exercise equipment, especially if you have bad knees. Its KeyFlex cushioning system helps reduce joint stress by softening each step, which can make walking or jogging easier on sensitive knees. The treadmill offers adjustable speeds from a gentle walk up to a faster jog or run, with a 0–10% incline to vary workouts without putting too much strain on your joints. Its 18-inch wide and 55-inch long deck provides a decent range of motion, making it comfortable for most users. The treadmill also features a sturdy alloy steel frame and a safety key, which add to its stability and user safety during workouts.

This model requires assembly and relies heavily on the iFIT membership to access many of its smart features like automatic speed and incline adjustments, virtual coaching, and interactive workouts. This ongoing subscription might not suit everyone. Additionally, while the treadmill does have cushioned support, it is still a running machine, so it may not be as gentle as some other low-impact equipment like ellipticals or recumbent bikes. The 5-inch LCD display is clear but basic, and some users might find it less intuitive compared to larger touchscreens.

If you prefer guided workouts and enjoy tech features, the NordicTrack T Series 5 offers a connected experience that can keep you motivated. Its weight limit of 300 pounds and compact foldable design make it practical for home use. This treadmill balances comfort and functionality well for knee-friendly cardio but leans on subscription services for its full potential.