Average Weight Capacity of a Treadmill (Most Popular List)

When talking about the weight capacity of a treadmill the first question that comes to mind is: Does it really matter? 

A simple answer to this is yes, it does matter because if you use a treadmill that can’t handle a certain weight, then it can lead to a premature breakdown, particularly in the motor, belt, and even frame. 

The average weight capacity of a treadmill is 325 pounds, the average falls between 250 and 400 lbs. Many of the treadmills with a higher horsepower motor and a larger frame have a higher weight capacity. Most commercial use treadmills are designed to hold more weight and have a wider belt versus most residential treadmills. 

This is really something you have to think about when buying a residential treadmill, which is typically designed with lower power (cheaper) motors and thinner belts. 

When working at submaximal/slower speeds, like walking at 1-2 mph, you won’t be using the entirety of the motor. And working with a thin belt you will feel cramped. 

Given my extensive research, we have done to show the weight capacity of these treadmills, the median weight capacity of these treadmills is 300 lbs, which is typically graded on a scale like 220, 250, 300, 350, and 400 lbs. 

Given the further research that we have done, it is also fairly evident that there is no actual industry standard for measuring the weight capacity of a treadmill, but it generally seems to be pretty accurate, so it’s what we are going to roll with. 

Weight Capacity of the Most Popular Treadmills on the Market 

Each treadmill is linked to Amazon so you can click over and see the actual price, reviews, features, etc. I made the table sortable so that you can find one within your price range, weight capacity and a belt size. Below the table I share my top pick. 

How is The Weight Capacity of a Treadmill Measured?

After seeing the wide range of popular treadmills with an even wider range of weight capacities, it’s worth asking how these companies conclude this measurement. 

The answer to that is actually a little unclear, as companies are not always so open about where these estimates come from. However, what we do know is that it’s usually in the correct ballpark. 

Something we can notice as well is that there is generally a positive correlation between the price, overall weight, and weight capacity of a treadmill. 

That is to say, the higher the price of the treadmill, then usually the heavier the treadmill’s overall weight, and the higher the overall weight, then the higher the weight capacity. 

This is not a revolutionary observation, but it allows for a helpful rule of thumb when shopping around for the treadmill of your dreams. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, the weight capacity is an important feature to note while finding a treadmill. This is because being over the weight capacity can overwork the motor, belt, and frame, which will, in turn, lower the overall lifespan of this expensive piece of equipment. 

The information is fairly easy to find, so make it a part of your check-list when doing your research for the treadmill that best fits your individual needs. 

Seeking a home treadmill can feel like a daunting and intimidating task because of how big of an investment it is. However, if you break it down into easily measurable items (one being weight capacity), then you are well on your way to finding the workout equipment of your dreams!