Best Manual Treadmill Reviews In 2023

Motorized treadmills are very popular. They are what you’ll see in most gyms. However, if you need a treadmill to walk or jog on in your home, a manual treadmill may be the best way to go. They do not need electricity, they are mobile and they can fit in small spaces. Manual treadmills have limited features, and it can be hard to choose a good one if you don’t know what to look at.

To make it easier for you to choose, we have picked some of the best manual treadmills and carefully reviewed them. Our best pick is the Avari Magnetic Treadmill. The magnetic resistance, sturdy construction and mobility make it stand out.

Top 3 Comparions Table
IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
Avari Magnetic Treadmill
  • Features: Steel Oval Tube Frame, Adjustable Magnetic Resistance, Electronic Monitor
  • Benefits: The handle is well-cushioned, foldable and very durable
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Assault Fitness AirRunner
  • Features: Battery-powered console, powder-coated steel frame, programmable workouts
  • Benefits: Suitable for running, not heavy to lift or move, supports weights up to 350 pounds
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PHOENIX 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill
  • Features: Heavy-duty flywheel, single-button electronic display, transportation wheels
  • Benefits: Easy-to-read display, noiseless and reasonably priced
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9 Best Manual Treadmills

1. Avari Magnetic Treadmill – Best Overall

Manual treadmills function through different means and features. The Avari Magnetic Treadmill uses magnetic resistance for smooth and quiet operation. There are eight levels of resistance that gives you more control over the intensity of your workout. Also, it comes with wheels that give it mobility and it is foldable.

Even though it is a lightweight machine, it has a sturdy steel tube and flywheel that keep it stable. The walking/jogging surface features a slip-resistant rubber that keeps the user stable. If what you need is a manual treadmill for just walking and jogging, this is one of the best you will get on the market today.

Features: Steel oval tube frame, adjustable magnetic resistance, electronic monitor

Pros

  • Handle is well-cushioned
  • Foldable
  • Very durable

Cons

  • Not very suitable for running, but perfect for walking and jogging

2. Assault Fitness AirRunner – Best For Running

The Assault Fitness AirRunner is perhaps the most peculiar treadmill in this review. The most striking feature is the curved running surface that allows the user to speed up and slow down at will. It features a battery-powered console that displays the feedback on your workout. 

In addition to the unique design, it features a strong powder-coated steel frame and base that can support weights up to 350 pounds. Furthermore, it is the only manual treadmill on our list with programmable workouts. A lot of manual treadmills are not suitable for running. However, this is one of the few you can run on.

Features: Battery-powered console, powder-coated steel frame, programmable workouts

Pros

  • Suitable for running 
  • Excellent control
  • Lightweight
  • Supports weights up to 350 lbs

Cons

  • Not foldable, but the light weight makes it easy to store all the same
  • Quite expensive, but it has features to justify the price

3. Stamina Inmotion Manual Treadmill – Compact Design

This is another lightweight treadmill that does not have a motor but is powered by the motion of the user. Manual treadmills offer considerably less functionality when compared to motorized ones. Still, they are perfect for indoor workouts. 

The Stamina Inmotion is one of the least expensive manual treadmills, and although it doesn’t have grand features, it has the basic ones you need for indoor walking and jogging. 

Even with the basicness, it features a monitor that displays workout time, distance, speed, and calories burned. The most interesting things about the Stamina Inmotion are the portability and affordability. Additionally, it has two incline options.

Features: 2 incline positions, dual-weighted flywheels, non-slip surface

Pros

  • One of the most affordable treadmills
  • Has 2 incline options
  • Easy to assemble

Cons

  • Requires frequent maintenance

4. Phoenix 98510 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill

The Phoenix 98510 is one of the most convenient manual treadmills you can get. Manual treadmills require some effort on the part of the user, so it helps to buy one that is relatively easy to operate. The treadmill features a heavy-duty flywheel that makes it easy to get the treadmill going and durable enough to resist wear and tear. 

It has a single-button console that allows you to track all some essential workout information like speed, distance, time, and calories. Additionally, it is easy to assemble. The unadjustable 12-degree incline means that it takes more effort to get the treadmill going.

Features: Water bottle holder, heavy-duty flywheel, spring-loaded pull pin system

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Easy to maintain
  • Has a compact design that can fit into tight spaces

Cons

  • The 12-degree incline is not adjustable; however, this can be an advantage as it increases workout intensity.

5. PHOENIX 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill – Budget Friendly

A simple and functional treadmill that can get you closer to achieving your fitness goals, the Phoenix 98516 treadmill is a compact treadmill that can support weights up to 250 pounds. Like some of the other treadmills in this review, it features a basic multi-function display that helps you track your workout data. 

As it has no motor, it operates entirely on the power generated by the user. However, the heavy-duty flywheel makes the operation smooth and consistent. As one of the most affordable manual treadmills, it has the necessary features to support regular workouts.

Features: Heavy-duty flywheel, single-button electronic display, transportation wheels

Pros

  • Easy-to-read display
  • Noiseless operation
  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • Has a fixed incline

6. ProGear 190 Manual Treadmill with Twin Flywheels – Portable

The ProGear 190 has some interesting features that are not typical to manual treadmills. The twin flywheels are one unique feature, and the two different incline positions are equally impressive. The treadmill has a very smooth and noiseless ride that perfectly simulates outdoor walking and running, thanks to the cast iron flywheels and the oversized belt rollers.

The 6-degree and 12-degree inclines give you little control over the intensity of your workout. The handles are well extended and cushioned, as you will have to hold on to them when using the treadmill. The sleek and foldable design makes it the perfect option for people who have limited space.

Features: Oversized belt rollers, cast iron flywheels, powder-coated finish

Pros

  • Long cushioned handles
  • Has 2 adjustable incline angles
  • The folding design saves space

Cons

  • Not the best treadmill for fast running, due to the narrow tread

7. Confidence Fitness Magnetic Manual Treadmill – Lightest Weight

Perhaps, the biggest challenge you can face with manual treadmills is the inability to customize workout speed and intensity in the absence of motors. However, the Confidence Fitness Treadmill features a slight incline and eight levels of magnetic resistance. This makes it possible to customize your workout intensity to some extent.

The size of the treadmill is similar to what you’ll get in most manual treadmills, but the foldable design and built-in wheels do stand out. Interestingly, it is one of the few manual treadmills that have a computer onboard. The computer displays workout data like distance covered, calories, time, and more.

Features: Locking pin mechanism, multi-function computer, 8 levels of magnetic resistance

Pros

  • Lightweight and foldable
  • Clear and easy-to-read display
  • Noiseless operation

Cons

  • The incline cannot be adjusted, but the magnetic resistance makes up for this.

8. Exerpeutic 100XL High Capacity Magnetic Resistance Manual Treadmill – High Weight Capacity

The Exerpeutic 100XL has not two but three different incline settings that give you the option to change the intensity. There’s not a lot of manual treadmills with a feature like this. It comes with long handles you can hold on to during workout, and it features magnetic resistance that stabilizes the speed of the tread belt and helps you exercise hands-free.

In the handles, there are built-in sensors that monitor your heart rate as you exercise. The twin 6” diameter flywheels provide smoothness and stability as you exercise. Also, the treadmill is easy to install.

Features: Heart rate monitor, twin 6” diameter flywheels, quick release incline adjustments

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Long safety handles
  • 3-year Limited Warranty

Cons

  • As a result of the short belt, some tall people may find it difficult to run on it.

9. Fitness Reality TR3000 Manual Treadmill

This treadmill is right for people looking for functionality and durability in a manual treadmill. It is made of steel and polycarbonate material. The manufacturers were able to achieve strength and lightweight in this particular model. Interestingly, it can withstand weights up to 325 pounds. The foldable design makes it suitable for places with limited space. It also has wheels for mobility.

The long handles have sensors that monitor your heart rate in them. With three different manual incline levels, you get to customize your workout intensity. It also features a 6 inch LCD display where you can read the distance traveled, calories burned, heart rate, time spent. You may also like our guide on the best jump rope shoes provided on this page.

Features: 6-inch LCD display, 8-level magnetic resistance

Pros

  • Foldable design 
  • Lightweight
  • Multiple incline levels

Cons

  • It does not have the widest track, but this has little or no effect on your workout.

10. EFITMENT Adjustable Incline Magnetic Manual Treadmill

Manual treadmills typically come with inclines because there are indications that walking/running on an incline burns more calories than on a flat surface. This EFITMENT treadmill comes with three different inclines levels together with eight levels of magnetic tension, just in case you need more resistance.

What makes the operation smooth and quiet is the state of the art flywheel. The non-slip tread surface guarantees stability. The handrails have sensors that compute your workout information and display them on an LCD digital monitor. What’s really impressive is the scan function that automatically scrolls through all the workout data.

Features: 3 incline angles, hand pulse sensors, LCD console

Pros

  • Has transportation wheels
  • Smooth and quiet operation
  • Folds up for storage

Cons

  • The digital monitor has a basic design, but it displays important data.

Motorless Treadmill – FAQS

What Is a Manual Treadmill?

A manual treadmill is a treadmill on which the motion of the user is required to get the belt in action as opposed to a motorized treadmill that uses a motor to set the belt in motion.

How does self-propelled treadmill Work?

The mechanism of a manual treadmill is quite simple. The action of the user pushing against the surface is what makes the belt move. Unlike in motorized treadmills, where you set a speed and try to keep up, the intensity and speed of the user’s steps are what increases or reduces the speed of the treadmill.

Non-Electric Treadmill Vs Motorized Treadmill

You need to understand the peculiarities of manual treadmills and motorized treadmills before you can choose which will suit you better. Manual treadmills don’t have motors or complex parts, and for this reason, they are easier to maintain. Using a manual treadmill is, however, harder than using a motorized one because of the absence of the belt cushioning system. Furthermore, motorized treadmills are larger, so they need more space than manual treadmills. Also, manual treadmills are typically cheaper. These and some other factors are what you should consider before you choose one.

Why are some self-powered treadmills so Expensive?

Manual treadmills are typically cheap, but there are a few exceptions. The few expensive manual treadmills have advanced features that justify their high cost. Features like programmable workouts, rotating handles, and curved running surface are some features that make some treadmills so expensive.

How do I run on a non-motorized treadmill?

As long as you understand how treadmills work, you should be able to stay safe on them. However, serious injuries can occur if you are not careful. Manual treadmills are hard to run on because of their small size and the effort it takes to get them going. To get a manual treadmill going, hold the handles tightly, shift your weight forward a bit, and push off with your feet. You may have to try a couple of times before you get the machine running. You may also like our recommendations on the best workout shoes on this post.

Do I Have To Use The Handlebars? 

You should hold onto the handlebars when getting on/off, and when starting or stopping your walk or run. You can eventually let go of the handlebars, once you get into a stable rhythm. Also, if you are working on your lower body, you shouldn’t hold the handlebars.

Related: Best Treadmill Running Shoes

Will a non-electric treadmill stop when I stop?

As the motion of the user controls the movement of a manual treadmill, it will stop when you stop.

Can A Manual Treadmill Teach Me How To Run?

If you can get the hang of running on a manual treadmill, you will become a better runner. A manual treadmill requires a good running form to get going, and if you can maintain that form, you will become better at running, even on other surfaces.


What’s the Best Manual Treadmill for Running? – Final Thoughts

If you need a treadmill for running only, a manual treadmill may not satisfy you. On the other hand, a manual treadmill is perfect for walking, jogging, and some other workout activities. From our appraisal, the Avari Magnetic Treadmill is the best. It is reasonably priced, very durable, and it features magnetic resistance that can help customize your workout.

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
Avari Magnetic Treadmill
  • Features: Steel Oval Tube Frame, Adjustable Magnetic Resistance, Electronic Monitor
  • Benefits: The handle is well-cushioned, foldable and very durable
CHECK LATEST PRICE
Assault Fitness AirRunner
  • Features: Battery-powered console, powder-coated steel frame, programmable workouts
  • Benefits: Suitable for running, not heavy to lift or move, supports weights up to 350 pounds
CHECK LATEST PRICE
PHOENIX 98516 Easy-Up Manual Treadmill
  • Features: Heavy-duty flywheel, single-button electronic display, transportation wheels
  • Benefits: Easy-to-read display, noiseless and reasonably priced
CHECK LATEST PRICE
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Austin Mills

Austin Mills in an outdoor enthusiast. He's been featured on some of the top outdoor & fitness blogs sharing his expertise in order to help others. In his free time, he likes spending time with his dogs enjoying the outdoors.