10 Best Manual Treadmills 2025 in the United States

This Sunny Health & Fitness manual treadmill is designed for serious home users who want a durable, heavy-duty machine that mimics natural running outdoors. Its curved belt encourages running on the balls of your feet, which can help improve your form and increase calorie burn compared to flat treadmills. The running surface is quite spacious at 61 by 17.7 inches with a non-slip texture, offering enough room for comfortable movement and safety during workouts. It supports a high weight capacity of up to 375 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The build is solid, using alloy steel and a belt reinforced with metal and rubber, which adds to the treadmill’s stability and long-term durability.

You’ll find helpful features like shock absorption to reduce joint impact, adjustable handlebars to fit different postures, and a clear LCD monitor that tracks time, calories, speed, and distance. Portability is decent for a manual treadmill this size, thanks to built-in transport wheels, although at 280 pounds, it’s still quite heavy to move around frequently. One minor drawback is that it offers only one incline level (curved), so if you want varied inclines for different workout intensities, this model may feel limited. Assembly is required, and the machine is relatively large, so make sure you have enough space.

This treadmill is well suited for those focused on endurance training and natural running mechanics, especially if you prioritize joint-friendly workouts and robust construction over motorized convenience.

The Assault Fitness Runner Pro is a standout option in the manual treadmill category, particularly for those focused on high-intensity interval training (HIIT), cardio, and endurance workouts. One of its strongest features is that it's athlete-powered, which means it requires no electricity, allowing you to train virtually anywhere. This appeals to fitness enthusiasts who prefer a workout that demands maximum effort, resulting in higher calorie burn compared to traditional motorized treadmills. The built-in wireless connectivity via Bluetooth or ANT+ enables easy tracking and integration with fitness apps, adding a modern touch to your workout experience.

Portability is another plus, thanks to its built-in wheels, making it easier to move around. The assembly process is straightforward, and the treadmill requires minimal maintenance, which is a relief for users who might not want to deal with complex setups or upkeep.

The AssaultRunner Pro does have some considerations. Weighing 280 pounds, it’s quite heavy, which may be an issue for those with limited space or who need to maneuver it frequently. Additionally, while it boasts a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour, not all users may need that kind of intensity, which could be overwhelming for beginners. The sturdy alloy steel construction is great for stability but also adds to the weight, making it less ideal for users who prioritize ultra-lightweight fitness equipment. This treadmill is perfect for dedicated adults looking for an intense workout tool, though its weight and advanced features may be better suited for more experienced users rather than complete beginners.

The SB Fitness Equipment CT700 Self Generated Curved Treadmill stands out in the manual treadmill category, particularly for those seeking a versatile workout option. One of its biggest strengths is its effective self-generating mechanism, which promotes higher calorie burn compared to traditional treadmills. This makes it an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts interested in running, walking, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The inclusion of seven resistance levels allows users to customize their workouts and progressively increase their strength.

The digital display provides clear insights into workout metrics, showing time, distance, speed, calories, and total miles, which can be motivating for users tracking their progress. Additionally, the quick speed adjustments make it suitable for various workout intensities, accommodating both casual walkers and serious athletes.

The CT700 is quite heavy at 308 pounds, which might affect portability despite having transport wheels. Its assembly requirement could be a drawback for those who prefer ready-to-use equipment. While the curved design enhances running form and offers a unique experience, it may take some getting used to for newcomers. With a weight capacity of 400 pounds, it accommodates a wide range of users, which is a big plus. The sturdy steel construction ensures stability, although this contributes to the overall weight. Its dimensions (76 x 34 x 62 inches) imply that it requires ample space for both use and storage.

The SB Fitness Equipment CT700 is a robust option for serious fitness enthusiasts looking for a manual treadmill that offers challenging workouts and effective calorie burning, while its weight and assembly requirements may not be ideal for all users.