6 Best Manual Treadmills for 2023
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When it comes to finding the best manual treadmill for your needs, it can be tough to know where to start. There are so many different models on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits. So how do you find the right one for you?
Well, that’s where we come in. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best manual treadmills on the market right now, and help you decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a basic model or something more advanced, we’ve got you covered.
How we choose | Benefits | FAQ | Bottom Line
My Top Picks For The Best Manual Treadmills:
Best Manual Treadmill Overall: AssaultRunner Pro
Best Budget Manual Treadmill: Grit Runner by Tru Grit Fitness
Best Manual Treadmill for Runners: TrueForm Trainer
Best Manual Treadmill for Walking: Asuna Heavy Duty Manual Treadmill
Best Manual Treadmill for Athletes: TrueForm Runner
Best High-End: AssaultRunner Elite
Best Overall Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
Features & Specifications:
Built-in Handles And Transport Wheels
100 Precision Ball Bearings
Hi-Contrast, UV Resistant Console Screen
Connects To Bluetooth & ANT+
9 Onboard Training Programs
Solid Steel Frame & Handrails
Corrosion-Resistant Hardware
Belt Lifetime: 150,000 Miles
AssaultRunner Pro Quick Overview:
Maximum User Weight: 350 lbs.
Weight: 289.2 lbs.
Dimensions: Length: 69.9″ / Width: 31.7″ / Height: 64.4″
Warranty: 5 Years On Frame, 3 Years On Moving Parts

Pros
Cons
If you’re looking for a non motorized treadmill that will help push your fitness goals, the AssaultRunner Pro is perfect for you. This curved manual treadmill comes with built-in training programs that require 100% of your attention, it’s much more effective than other treadmills on the market that make it easy to zone out.
Best Budget Manual Treadmill: Grit Runner by Tru Grit Fitness
Features & Specifications:
6 Resistance Levels: Level 1-2 Run, Level 3-4 Walk, Level 5-6 Push Sled
Electricity Consumption: Zero, Powered 100% By The User
LCD Monitor: Bright Rechargeable, Displays Time, Distance, Pace, Speed, Calories, And Interval Training Modes
Material: Grade Steel And Aluminum Frame
Grit Runner Quick Overview:
Maximum User Weight: 400 lbs.
Dimensions: Lenght: 79″ / Width: 35″ / Height: 60″
Belt Width: 19″
Weight 415 lbs.
Warranty: 1 Year Overall And Lifetime On The Tread

Pros
Cons
If you’re looking to get into running, or even if you’re a seasoned runner, the Tru Grit Runner can help you find your stride and fine-tune your form. The Grit Runner is simple yet highly effective, and it’s the market leader in self-powered treadmills.
The Grit Runner is a challenging treadmill that does not have an electric motor. You can reach your goals quickly with six levels of resistance, which range from a light workout to intense push replication.
You can track your progress while you run on this battery-powered LCD screen. Time, distance, calories, speed, tempo, and watts are all displayed on the battery-powered LCD screen. The frame is made of commercial-grade steel and aluminum, so it is built to last.
Best Manual Treadmill for Runners: TrueForm Trainer $3,995.00
Features & Specifications:
LCD Monitor: Yes
Pulleys: Injection Molded Polymer
Paint: Lightly Textured Powder Coat Finish
Handles For Ease Of Movement: Yes
TrueForm Trainer Quick Overview:
Maximum User Weight: 400 lbs.
Dimensions: Length 64″ / Width 31″ / Height 63″
Running Surface: Width 17″ / Length 54”
Height Of Deck From Ground: 14”
Weight: 300 lbs.
Frame: Steel
Bearings: 112 Sealed Steel Ball Bearings
Warranty: 10 Year On Frame

Pros
Cons
The TrueForm Trainer is a non-motorized treadmill with an innovative, curved running surface. It is constructed from high-quality materials and designed to be virtually maintenance-free, making it a great choice.
The TrueForm Trainer is also environmentally friendly – no electricity is needed! It can still handle users up to 400 lbs. running at top speed thanks to its steel frame construction and heavy-duty, impact-absorbing slatted running surface
Best Manual Treadmill for Walking: Asuna Heavy Duty Manual Treadmill
Features & Specifications:
Foldable
Incline Function Yes, manual
Incline Levels 4
Resistance Levels 8
2- Transportation Wheels
Device Holder
Non-Slip Handlebars
Asuna Heavy Duty Manual Treadmill Quick Overview:
User Maximum Weight: 440 lbs.
Folded Dimensions: Length 27.5″ / Width 30.5″ / Height 57″
Product Dimensions: Length 55″ / Width 30.5″/ Height 57″
Product Weight: 165.3 lbs.
Deck To Floor Height: Min 13.21″ / Max 13.43″
Running Surface: Length 51″/ Width 17.75″
Warranty: 5 Year Structural Frame, 180 Days Other Parts And Components

Pros
Cons
The Asuna manual treadmill is well-built, heavy-duty, and sturdy. It is simple to set up and operate. The adjustable incline and resistance provide enough options to vary routines as much as you want.
Whether you’re a runner or prefer walking briskly on an incline this treadmill is an excellent, challenging workout. It does not come with a tracker to monitor speed but you can easily install a free app to do this for you.
The heavyweight capacity of 440 lbs. is perfect for larger bodies and with 8 adjustable resistance levels, you are sure to create your own challenging workout.
When you are done you can easily fold it and transport it on the 2 wheels and store it in the closet. The dual flywheel is designed to handle HIIT workouts so you can push yourself and do the most challenging workouts your heart desires.
Best Manual Treadmill for Athletes: TrueForm Runner
Features & Specifications:
Display: Bright LED Rechargeable Battery
Pulleys: Turned and Tooled Solid Aluminum
Paint: Zinc Plated Undercoat / Textured Powder Coat Finish
Handles For Ease Of Movement: Yes
TrueForm Runner Quick Overview:
User Maximum Weight: 700 lbs. walking / 450 lbs. running top speed
Dimensions: Length 64″ / Width 36″ / Height 63″
Running Surface: 17″ wide x 54” long
Unit Weight: 350 lbs.
Frame: Steel
Tread Lower: Fiberglass-reinforced nylon
Bearings: 106 Sealed Steel Ball Bearings

Pros
Cons
The TrueForm Runner’s versatility benefits all types of users; it is perfect for sprinting, running, jogging, and walking. By not having a motor, you are in control of the belt speed- which means you’ll burn 44% more calories than on a treadmill with a motor. Additionally , you will burn 10% more calories than if you were using the Trueform Trainer!
Best High-End: AssaultRunner Elite
Features & Specifications:
Water Bottle Holders and Larger Side Shrouds For Foot Placement
Built-In Handles and (2) Transport Wheels
Hi-Contrast, UV Resistant Console Screen with Improved Readability
9-Onboard Training Programs and Connects To Bluetooth & ANT+
DriveTrain System: 100 Precision Ball Bearings with 12 Roller Guides
AssaultRunner Elite Quick Overview:
User Maximum Weight: 400 lbs.
Weight: 289.2 lbs.
Dimensions: Length 69.9″ / Width: 31.7″ / Height: 64.4″
Running Surface: Width 17” / 62” Lenght
Warranty: Lifetime Belt Warranty, 10-Year Frame, 3-Year Non-Wear Parts, 1-Year Labor

Pros
Cons
The AssaultRunner Elite is a curved manual treadmill that is designed to help you train like you are running outside, it is both fast and comfortable. You control your speed, making it a good choice for runners of all skill levels. It is compact, low-maintenance, easy to transport, and is a non motorized treadmill that does not require any electricity, so you are always in control. The AssaultRunner Elite also has a strong frame and many features that other manual treadmills do not have.
What is a Manual Treadmill?
A manual treadmill is a treadmill that is powered solely by the user. Unlike traditional electrical treadmills, there is no electrical power required – the user simply powers the belt by walking or running on it.
Benefits of Using Manual Treadmills
Here are some benefits inclusding emotional ones of using manual treadmills:
- You don’t need to use any electricity.
- Safer compared to electric treadmills
- You have full control seeing as you’re the power supply
- Perfect for High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
- It feels more like you’re actually running or walking outside.
- It’s a great workout for people who are new to running or working out.
How We Selected / How to Choose the Best Manual Treadmill for Your Home Gym
With the plethora of manual treadmills on the market, it’s crucial to find the one that caters best to your individual needs.
Price
The price of a manual treadmill can greatly vary, so it is essential to take your budget into account when making a purchase. You can find them anywhere from $1000-$5000.
Weight capacity
A machine’s weight capacity is an important characteristic to think about. The weight limit for manual treadmills can differ, so it’s crucial to select one that supports your weight. For the majority of manual treadmills, the minimum weight limit is 300 lbs. though some models might be able to carry up to 400 lbs. or more.
Stability
This is an important factor we also looked at. Generally speaking, one of the biggest benefits of using a manual treadmill is that they are incredibly stable. Unlike traditional treadmills, which can be wobbly and unsteady, manual treadmills are rock solid. This makes them ideal for those who are looking for a treadmill that is both durable and stable.
Size & Footprint
It is vital to take into account the size of both the manual treadmill and your room when making a purchase. The size can differ between models, so be mindful of machine measurements in relation to your available space at home.
Warranty
The warranty is one of the most, if not THE most important factor to look for when purchasing a manual treadmill. These warranties can differ significantly from product to product, so be sure to find one with coverage that meets your personal needs. Most models come standard with 1-3 years of protection, but there are a few on the market that offer extensive lifetime coverage on key components like the frame.
Noise
Keep in mind that noise is an important consideration when you purchase a manual treadmill. Although all manual treadmills emit some level of noise, they tend to be louder than traditional treadmills. If quiet operation is a priority for you, then choose a traditional treadmill over a manual model.
Frequently Asked Questions: Manual Treadmills
Which manual treadmill is best for home use?
When looking for the best manual treadmill for your home gym you should consider our overall pick, the AssaultRunner Pro which has all the necessary and desired features so you can design your perfect work out routine at home. If looking for a budget option you can check out the Grit Runner by Tru Grit Fitness is better for runner. For runners you should check out the TrueForm Trainer.
Are manual treadmills effective?
Yes, manual treadmills are effective. Studies have shown that manual treadmills result in a greater level of exertion. They provide a closer experience to running outdoors compared to traditional treadmills. Because manual treadmills do not require electricity to operate, they are more environmentally friendly than traditional treadmills. On the flip side, good-quality manual treadmills generally cost more than their traditional motorized counterparts
Which treadmill is the best: manual or motor?
At the end of the day, both types of treadmills have their own individual advantages and disadvantages. Manual treadmills are best for people who want to get a good workout and prefer a closer experience to running outdoors. Motorized treadmills are best for people who want a traditional gym experience and don’t want to spend too much on a machine.
Is a manual treadmill good for weight loss?
Yes, manual treadmills are good for weight loss. They provide a challenging workout that can help you burn calories and lose weight. In addition, because they don’t require any electricity to operate, they’re more environmentally friendly than traditional motorized treadmills.
Is a manual treadmill good for walking?
Manual treadmills are a great choice for walkers because it’s not motorized so you have to engage your muscles while you work out.
Are manual treadmills quiet?
Manual treadmills vary in noise levels, but all of them make more noise than traditional motorized treadmills. If you’re looking for a quieter machine, you may want to consider an electric treadmill instead.
What is the cost of a manual treadmill?
A manual treadmill typically costs more than a traditional motorized treadmill. However, you get what you pay for, and a good-quality manual treadmill can provide a challenging workout that’s comparable to running outdoors. So if you’re looking for a quality machine you should be willing to pay anywhere from $1,000 to over $5,000.
Do manual treadmills have incline levels?
Depends, curved manual treadmills typically don’t come with a separate incline option, this option is generally standard on a flat-belt manual treadmill offering multiple incline levels that allow users to customize their workout.
Alternatives to Manual Treadmills
Foldable Treadmills
Motorized Flat Belt Treadmills
Under Desk Treadmills
Hybrid Manual Treadmills
Bottom Line
There are a number of different models available on the market, so it’s important to do your research before you buy one. Make sure to consider things like size, features, and budget before making your decision.
And remember, just because a manual treadmill doesn’t have an electrical motor doesn’t mean it’s not powerful – many of them can handle a user weight up to 300 lbs. or more. So if you’re looking for a challenging workout that doesn’t require any electricity, a manual treadmill is definitely worth considering.
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