Buying a Treadmill: Timing, Locations, and Smart Shopping Tips

Are you prepared to buy a treadmill but unclear about where, when, or how to do so? You are not the only one. Many people interested in fitness and making their first purchase are asking the same question: what is a decent treadmill to buy? Where can I find a treadmill that is located close to me? Would it be possible to use my health savings account to purchase a treadmill? We will help you locate the best treadmill for your lifestyle and budget by utilizing over two dozen popular queries and search phrases in our thorough guide that is 5000 words long. We will cover everything you need to know about finding the finest treadmill for you.

1: What Is a Good Treadmill to Buy?

Should you be wondering, “What kind of treadmill should I purchase?” First, consider your needs, workout space, fitness goals, and budget.

1.1 Key Features to Look For

For walking, a motor with a horsepower rating of 2.0 is sufficient; for running, you should seek a motor with a horsepower rating of 2.5–4.0.
For walkers, the ideal deck size is at least 20 inches by 55 inches, while for runners, the ideal deck size is 22 inches by 60 inches.
Shock absorption lessens the impact on the joints and makes them more comfortable.
inclination and descent Options: The inclination may be adjusted up to 15%, while the descent can be adjusted down to 3%. These options imitate actual outside circumstances.
If you are a runner, you should look for treadmills that have top speeds of 10–12 miles per hour.
The included programs and workouts include built-in routines, interval training, and goal-oriented sessions.
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB connections, touchscreens, and fitness applications (iFit, Peloton, and Zwift) are all examples of technological integration.
Durability requires a weight capacity of at least 300 pounds, so aim for that.
Hydraulic folding systems are useful for saving space and making mobility easier. They are also foldable and portable.
Guarantee: A reputable treadmill should have a guarantee that covers the frame for life, replacement components for one to three years, and labor for one year.
The level of noise is particularly crucial for those who live in apartments. Improved motor design and insulation are typically seen in devices that produce less noise.

1.2 Top Recommended Models (2025 Edition)

Category	Model	Key Features
Best Budget	Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400	Compact, manual incline, shock-absorbing deck
Best for Beginners	XTERRA Fitness TR150	12 presets, quiet motor, folding design
Best Mid-Range	Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT	3.0 CHP, Bluetooth, incline, durable frame
Best High-End	NordicTrack Commercial 1750	14″ touchscreen, iFit, incline/decline
Best for Streaming	Peloton Tread	Sleek design, immersive workouts, elite instructors
Best Compact	Echelon Stride	Auto-folding, app support, small footprint

When unsure which treadmill to buy, consider your workout goals, available space, and preference for technology or simplicity.

2: Where Can I Buy a Treadmill?

Depending on where you make your purchase, you may be subject to different pricing, warranty support, return policies, and delivery options.

2.1 In-Store Locations

It is possible to purchase Sole, NordicTrack, and ProForm at Dick’s Sporting Goods. They give various exam alternatives and provide support to the personnel.
Best Buy is well-known for its selection of technological devices, but it also sells NordicTrack exercise equipment.
Walmart has a limited assortment of items, but it is located in a handy area and sells treadmills that are suitable for reasonable budgets.
Costco provides customers with access to unique models that come with a generous return policy.
The Academy Sports + Outdoors store carries well-known fitness brands and provides discounts at specific times of the year.
Local fitness equipment stores typically offer better customer service, trial runs, and free installation or setup.

2.2 Online Platforms

Amazon provides customers with the widest selection of items, the most affordable prices, and thousands of reviews from other customers.
Direct purchasing with discounts and financing options is available on NordicTrack.com.
Excellent choices and warranties are available at HorizonFitness.com.
ProForm.com offers membership packages and bundles from various manufacturers.
Wayfair offers fashionable designs and provides financing options.
Overstocked or discontinued models can offer good bargains.
There is a wider assortment available online than in-store at Walmart.com.
eBay is an online marketplace that sells both new and reconditioned equipment.

You may take advantage of the flexibility, wider selection, and convenience of home delivery when you purchase a treadmill online. On the other hand, be careful to read reviews, conditions of the warranty, and rules about returns.

3: Where Can I Buy a Used Treadmill?

When compared to retail prices, used items can save you up to 70 percent.

3.1 Trusted Sources

You may filter items on Facebook Marketplace based on price, brand, and distance.
It is a wonderful place to find local items, but you should scrutinize them carefully.
Play It Again Sports is a worldwide retail business that specializes in the sale of certified pre-owned fitness equipment.
Examine the seller ratings, the refund policy, and the delivery choices that are available on eBay.
Peer-to-peer apps for local purchasing and selling activities include OfferUp and LetGo.
The majority of local gyms and hotels sell or give away outdated models throughout the process of upgrading their equipment.

3.2 Used Treadmill Buying Tips

The belt, the motor noise, the frame integrity, the display panel operation, and the rollers should all be inspected before the purchase is made.
It is advantageous to request manuals and receipts because you may use them for future repairs and warranty transfers.
Verify Brand Support: Some brands continue to support and service their used products.
Perform a walk or run on it for ten to fifteen minutes before making a purchase, if at all feasible.
If replacement components are no longer available, you should avoid obsolete models.

You should consider purchasing a used treadmill if you are new to the world of fitness, if you are on a limited budget, or if you want to test your dedication before purchasing a high-end treadmill.

4: Where Can I Buy Treadmill Accessories?

Enhancing your workout experience and extending the life of your treadmill are both possible outcomes of purchasing accessories.

4.1 Where Can I Buy Treadmill Lube?

Silicone-based lubricants such as Spot On and Impresa are available on Amazon.
Walmart has various generic choices in addition to well-known names like ProForm and LifeSpan.
Dick’s and Academy Sports are two examples of sporting goods stores that commonly stock these.
Purchase lubricant that is compatible with the standards of your brand’s treadmill manufacturers.

4.2 Other Useful Accessories

The use of treadmill mats helps to protect flooring and decrease noise and vibration.
Dust Covers: When your treadmill is not in use, dust covers will help keep it clean and safe.
Monitoring your heart rate is a more accurate method than using handgrip sensors.
The addition of cooling fans and tablet holders can enhance both comfort and enjoyment.
Kits for Cleaning: These kits contain brushes, rags, and a solution to ensure that your treadmill remains in excellent condition.
Surge protectors are a great way to safeguard your investment from power surges.
You can purchase replacement parts such as belts, motors, rollers, and touchscreens from the websites of various brands.

Regular treadmill maintenance ensures it runs well and your workouts are safer.

5: Smart Shopping Tips for Buying a Treadmill

In addition to knowing where to buy and what characteristics to search for, timing and strategy are also critical. We will investigate and answer frequently asked questions in this area, like “When is the best time to buy a treadmill?” Can I buy a treadmill with my HSA or FSA, and how can I get the best price?

5.1 When Is the Best Time to Buy a Treadmill?

It is possible to save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by making purchases at the optimal moment. This is a list of the great windows:

During the month of January, which is known as the “New Year’s Resolution Season,” the majority of stores provide significant discounts immediately following the New Year to satisfy the surge in demand for fitness products.
Expect to find offers on treadmills of all price points, from the most affordable to the most expensive, throughout Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Big-box shops and online platforms are offering discounts on workout equipment in conjunction with Memorial Day and Labor Day sales.
If you are interested in purchasing a treadmill, you should take advantage of Amazon Prime Day, which is a two-day event that takes place in July.
Stores clear out their inventory to make room for new stock, which is a fantastic opportunity to get savings on models from the previous season.

Often, January is the best month to buy a treadmill, with November and July following closely behind.

5.2 How to Get the Best Deal on a Treadmill

Here are a few strategies to maximize value:

When comparing costs online, it is helpful to make use of tools such as Google Shopping or CamelCamelCamel to monitor prices and historical lows.
Joining a brand’s email list can get you quick coupons or discounts ranging from 10–15%. Many businesses offer subscriptions for discounts.
Price Matching: Retailers such as Best Buy and Dick’s Sporting Goods frequently choose to match the prices of their competitors.
Watch out for bundle offers: when you purchase directly from the manufacturer, brands like NordicTrack and ProForm include subscriptions (like iFit) and accessories.
When buying floor models or paying cash, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount.
Cashback & Rewards: To gain more value from your purchases, you could use a rewards credit card or shop through cashback portals like Rakuten.
Buy the model from the previous year: It is not always required to have the most recent screen or interface. Often, models from the previous year offer the same level of performance at a lesser cost.

When it comes to learning how to purchase a treadmill at the most affordable price, having a strategic mindset makes a significant difference.

5.3 Is it possible to purchase a treadmill using HSA or FSA funds?

The answer to this frequently asked question depends on your personal circumstances.

Note that treadmills do not automatically qualify as HSA or FSA expenses.
Medical Necessity Requirement: You are required to get a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from your healthcare professional declaring that a treadmill is necessary for the treatment or management of a certain health condition (for example, obesity, hypertension, or rehabilitation).
Send the LMN, receipt, and any other documents to your HSA or FSA provider. This form is the way to submit the claim.
Confirm the specifics of your plan: Always be sure to verify with your account administrator or utilize resources such as the eligibility checker offered by the FSA Store.

To answer your question, would it be possible to use your HSA or FSA to purchase a treadmill? Certainly, but only if there is a sound medical rationale for it.

5.4 Warranties, Returns, and Extended Coverage

Understanding policies ensures peace of mind with your investment.

Standard Warranties:

Frame: Lifetime (on most reputable brands)
Motor: 10–25 years or lifetime
Parts: 1–3 years
Labor: 1 year
Extended Warranties: Some retailers (like Best Buy or Amazon) offer extra protection plans—helpful if you’re a heavy user.
Return Policies:
Return policies for online purchases normally allow for a thirty-day window; however, some shops may impose additional costs for restocking or return postage.
In-store returns can vary; some stores offer free returns, while others require that you use the goods.
Costco offers excellent return flexibility, even when it comes to workout equipment.

Before making a purchase, ensure you fully comprehend all the terms to avoid any surprises when you need repairs or returns.

6: Best Times to Buy a Treadmill

6.1 New Year Sales (January)

This is the best time of the year to make purchases. Retailers anticipate a boost in the number of people who make fitness commitments and offer significant discounts.

6.2 Black Friday & Cyber Monday

A close second is the latter half of November. When shopping in-store or online, it is typical to find deep discounts.

6.3 Memorial Day & Labor Day

These holiday weekends frequently feature sales on various pieces of fitness equipment.

6.4 End-of-Year Clearance (December)

We put older inventory up for sale to make room for more recent models.

6.5 Summer Slumps

When sales are slow in the middle of the year, retailers may choose to offer discounts in the months of July and August.

A helpful hint: If you are not in a hurry, you may save hundreds of dollars on high-end treadmills by using these windows.

7: Can I Buy a Treadmill with My HSA or FSA?

For purchasers who are concerned about their finances, this is a fundamental and frequently asked question.

7.1 Short Answer: Not Usually

Since treadmills are classified as general fitness equipment, the IRS guidelines typically do not allow them to be eligible for the Health Savings Account or the Flexible Spending Account.

7.2 Exceptions

You may be able to use HSA/FSA funds if:

An official note of medical necessity is provided by your physician (for example, for the purpose of physical therapy or heart health).
A prescribed therapy or rehabilitation program includes using the treadmill.

Always confirm with your HSA/FSA provider before purchasing.

8: Treadmill Financing Options

A number of retailers and manufacturers offer finance options that allow payments to be spread out over a longer period of time.

8.1 Retailer Financing Programs

NordicTrack, ProForm: Offer 0% APR for qualified buyers through TD Bank.
Amazon Store Card: 6–24 month promotional financing.
Credit lines with deferred interest options are available through Best Buy Financing for purchases that are greater than $399.

8.2 Buy Now, Pay Later Platforms

There are a number of online fitness retailers that Affirm, Klarna, and Afterpay have partnered with.
We make the approval process simple, we do light credit checks, and we provide flexible payment arrangements.

Be sure to look over the specifics with great attention. After the advertising time is over, certain plans continue to increase interest.

9: Frequently Asked Questions

9.1 What ‘s the Best Treadmill Brand?

Popular and reliable brands include

NordicTrack—Known for tech-forward features and incline trainers
Sole Fitness—Durable, quiet, and budget-friendly
Horizon Fitness—Great for runners on a mid-range budget
ProForm—Interactive training and modern designs
LifeSpan—Focuses on workplace and walking treadmills

9.2 Should I Buy a Manual or Motorized Treadmill?

Manual: No electricity, cheaper, ideal for walking or HIIT.
Motorized: Offers better speed control, incline options, and a smoother running experience.

9.3: How Much Should I Spend on a Treadmill?

Budget models: $300–$700
Mid-range: $800–$1,500
High-end: $1,500–$3,000+

Choose based on your usage frequency and desired features.

9.4: What Size Treadmill Do I Need for Running?

Running deck: 22″ x 60″ minimum
Walking: 20″ x 55″ can suffice.
Height and stride also influence sizing—taller users need longer belts.

9.5 Do Treadmills Use a Lot of Electricity?

Not significantly. The average usage cost is approximately $0.25 per hour, which varies based on the size of the motor and the user’s habits.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a treadmill is essential for your health. If you know what to look for, when to buy, where to shop, and how to get the best deal, you can find a machine that will support your fitness journey for years. Put this information to use as a reference, spend some time doing research, and then make a purchase that is tailored to your lifestyle and the things you want to do.