Recently, curved manual treadmill machines have been rising in popularity due to the advantages they offer over flat treadmills. Their U-shaped belt design has proven to provide a more natural and comfortable workout experience.
In this article, we delve into the best curved treadmill machines for 2023 and showcase the features that set them apart from traditional motorized treadmills.
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In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the
Rogue Woodway Curve LTG Treadmill.
The LTG is the result of a partnership between Rogue Fitness and renowned treadmill maker Woodway USA. It’s slightly pricier than the average curved manual treadmill but justifies the price tag with a premium product fit for home and commercial use.
Top 6 Best Curved Treadmills Reviewed
1. Rogue | Woodway Curve LTG Treadmill – Top Pick
The LTG is the result of a partnership between Rogue Fitness and renowned treadmill maker Woodway USA. It’s slightly pricier than the average curved manual treadmill but justifies the price tag with a premium product fit for home and commercial use. With a manufacturer-guaranteed unlimited top speed, it can be used for all kinds of exercises, from walking, running, HIIT, and more.
- Speed range: Unlimited
- Max incline: Not adjustable
- Folding: Not foldable
- Weight Limit: 350 pounds
- Item weight: 297 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 67 L x 34 W x 70 H inches
- Display: LCD console
- Running surface: 62 H x 17 W inches
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 2-year electronics, 1-year labor
- Workout programs: Four modes - goal, interval, group/circuit, and custom
- Additional features: Patented rubber slats, Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, NFC pairing for Apple smartwatches, Group and Circuit training modes
The workout surface of this treadmill uses the Woodway patented slat belt, which now has a TPE covering. It's known for being more comfortable and causing less shock compared to regular treadmills. The surface has 60 rubber slats that smoothly glide over 98 roller bearings and 12 guide rollers, creating a seamless and smooth motion without any dragging, bumps, or interruptions. The slats also have a small hexagonal texture that improves traction, preventing your running shoes from slipping or skidding. The treadmill has side covers that are non-slip and provide a safe and stable platform to step on, making it perfect for taking a quick rest or stopping in an emergency.
The LCD console on this treadmill is one of the most advanced for a motorless treadmill. It has an easy-to-use control panel and a large backlit screen that is clear and easy to see, and it even provides sound cues. It tracks various important metrics in detail, including your current, highest, and average speed, total time and pace, total and active calories burned, watts, and heart rate. You can connect your heart rate monitor via Bluetooth or ANT+.
Photo by @genelite_
Next to the display, there are two water bottle holders on each side, as well as a small shelf and a holder for your smart device at the front. These features are very helpful for keeping your workout essentials close at hand, especially since manual treadmills usually don't have these convenient additions. Note that besides the running belt, the treadmill comes mostly disassembled, so it may take some effort and care to get it up and running.
Positives:
Manufacturer-guaranteed unlimited speed
Patented TPE-covered slat belt design
NFC pairing for Apple smartwatches
Non-slip side covers for safely stepping on and off
Two water bottle holders for easy reach with your dominant arm
Could be better:
Comes disassembled with many small parts, may take some time and effort to get running
2. Signature Fitness SF-S2 Sprint Demon – Runner-Up
In close-second place, we have the Signature Fitness SF-S2 Sprint Demon. It packs a lot of performance features into an otherwise compact curved non motorized treadmill. Although the Rogue Woodway does surpass it in certain specs, the Sprint Demon’s advantage is a more budget-friendly price point with an excellent quality for price ratio.
- Speed range: 0 to 25 mph
- Max incline: Not adjustable
- Folding: Not foldable
- Weight Limit: 300 pounds
- Item weight: Around 150 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 66.54 L x 27.56 W x 57.68 H inches
- Display: LCD console
- Running surface: 55 H x 16 W inches
- Warranty: 1 year
- Workout programs: None
- Additional features: 7 resistance levels, small footprint
The Sprint Demon got its name due to a design based around HIIT training and is especially good for sprints, power walks, and circuit runs. It utilizes thin and flexible slats to provide a workout with noticeably lower impact, reducing stress on the joints while effectively engaging the targeted muscle groups.
Moreover, the SF-S2 Spring Demon boasts one of the most compact footprints among curved treadmills. This feature makes it ideal for people seeking the advantages of curved treadmills with limited space to put them. Additionally, its lightweight design enables easy maneuverability and storage by a single person when not in use, thanks to the tilt mechanism and transport wheels on the bottom.
Constructed with a robust alloy steel frame, the treadmill can accommodate a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, even during running sessions. It offers seven manually adjustable resistance levels, with the first three designed for walking, the next three for running, and the final level simulating high-resistance exercises like sled pushes. Adjusting the resistance levels is a breeze, as the conveniently positioned lever on the handrails allows for quick adjustments without the need to dismount the machine.
Positives:
Superb quality for price ratio
Most compact on this list and generally among treadmills
Lightweight, easy to move around
Comfortable flexible slats absorb exercise impact well
The resistance lever is conveniently placed on the handrails
Could be better:
Only a single year of warranty coverage, short for a cardio machine
Next up we have the SB Fitness CT400. Compared to other machines, this is a fairly cheap curved treadmill considering its excellent performance, including 375-pound weight capacity and a virtually unlimited top speed.
- Speed range: Unlimited
- Max incline: Not adjustable
- Folding: Not foldable
- Weight Limit: 375 pounds
- Item weight: 145 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 73 L X 30.5 W X 61.6 H inches
- Display: LCD console
- Running surface: 60 L x 18 W inches
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 5-year parts, 2-year console, and 1-year labor
- Workout programs: None
- Additional features: 3 resistance levels
Designed primarily for HIIT training, the CT400 treadmill offers a specialized running experience. Its thin, flexible slats ensure a low-impact exercise that is gentle on your joints, even during high-intensity activities like sprinting. Additionally, the CT400 distinguishes itself by providing three distinct resistance levels: low, medium, and high. This feature adds versatility and allows you to customize your workout with a varying level of challenge compared to similar fitness treadmill runners.
Constructed from durable alloy steel, the frame and handles of the CT400 are built to last. The manufacturer has rigorously tested it and found it capable of handling up to 150,000 miles of usage without any faults. This machine also requires minimal maintenance and does not need additional lubrication or belt adjustments, assuming it hasn’t been misused. Furthermore, the warranty coverage is exceptional, with an impressive 10-year warranty on the frame, 5 years on other parts, 2 years on the LCD console, and 1 year for labor.
When it comes to safety, the CT400 operates like other manual treadmills, where the belt starts and stops based on your physical input. However, where this treadmill excels is in its response time, thanks to its high-speed nylon bearings, which make the transition from low to high speed and vice versa seamless. Furthermore, it is equipped with a set of spacious multi-grip handrails that offer a secure hold in various workout positions, enhancing overall safety and stability for users of different athletic levels.
Positives:
Built from a durable alloy steel frame
Longest lasting warranty between items on this list and very high in general
Does not require much maintenance post assembly
Multi-grip handlebar makes it safe and convenient for different athletic levels
Could be better:
The console is positioned inconveniently low and can be far out of sight and reach depending on your size
The WOLFMATE Curved Treadmill is a moderately priced and overall well-designed workout machine. Due to its high number of resistance settings, a large set of handlebars, and a belt that can efficiently run both forward and backward, this rounded treadmill can be used for much more than simply walking and running.
- Speed range: Unlimited
- Max incline: Not adjustable
- Folding: Not foldable
- Weight Limit: 440 pounds
- Item weight: 342 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 73 L x 34 W x 63 H inches
- Display: LCD
- Running surface: 60 L x 17 W inches
- Warranty: 3-year frame, 1-year parts, 1-year console
- Workout programs: None
- Additional features: 8 resistance levels, multi-grip handlebar
As mentioned earlier, the most impressive feature of the WOLFMATE curved non motorized treadmill is the dual-directional belt that allows movement both forward and backward. Furthermore, it offers a total of eight resistance settings, which is high among manual treadmills. Combined with the large and thick handrails that provide various grip positions, the exercise possibilities are virtually limitless, enabling you to engage in a near full-body workout. From simulating activities like skiing and mountain climbing to performing backward walking/running and sled pushing, you can perform cardio exercises as well as train your stamina, endurance, and explosive power.
The treadmill's main frame is constructed from robust alloy steel, ensuring durability and stability. It impressively supports a maximum weight capacity of 440 pounds. The running surface it provides is generously sized and equipped with anti-skid slats and a shock-absorbing deck, enhancing safety and comfort during your workout sessions.
Positives:
Dual-direction moving belt
8 resistance settings
Thick multi-grip handlebars which can be fully leaned on
High workout variety
Could be better:
Very heavy at 342 pounds, hard to move by a single person
5. NOHrD Sprintbok Curved Manual Treadmill Ash – Best Wooden Frame
Very few treadmills are as eye-catching as the NOHrD u shaped treadmill. This machine is made from some of the highest-quality luxury materials, including a fully wooden frame supported by stainless steel components. Having said that, while a wooden treadmill may sound intriguing, it’s important to note that it commands a premium price.
- Speed range: Unlimited
- Max incline: Not adjustable
- Folding: Not foldable
- Weight Limit: 220 pounds
- Item weight: 353 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 71 L x 21 W x 55 H inches
- Display: 17.3-inch tablet included with purchase
- Workout programs: Multiple programs available through the NOHrD Sprintbook
- Running surface: 55 L x 18 W inches
- Warranty: 1 year on faults and parts + 1 additional year if you register your treadmill online
- Additional features: Built from recyclable materials, compatible with the NOHrD Sprintbook app, available in six wood finishes
The NOHrD Sprintbok Curved Manual Treadmill comes with a 17.3-inch display tablet with pre-installed NOHrD fitness apps for stat tracking, goal setting, and workout selection. The app can also be used offline, although a micro-SD card (bought separately) is required for saving information.
Made from 100% recyclable materials, the treadmill promotes sustainability and can be recycled when no longer in use or if it becomes irreparable. It is available in six wood-inspired designs, including Ash, Oak, Club, Cherry, Walnut, and Club. However, note that these come with varying prices. The treadmill features 62 movable wooden slats with a linoleum finish for impact absorption and protection against wear and tear. In addition, it operates quietly compared to metal and plastic treadmills.
With the highest quality materials, the Sprintbok is a maintenance-free machine, requiring only regular surface dusting. There is no need for belt-tightening, oiling, or greasing of parts. However, an unfortunate drawback of wood treadmills is the material’s low resistance, which limits the maximum user capacity quite a bit.
Positives:
Tablet included with every purchase
Made from high-quality 100% recyclable materials
Virtually maintenance-free apart from dusting
Available in six wood finishes to match your interior and taste
Quiet compared to plastic and metal treadmills
Could be better:
Low maximum capacity
Quite expensive, double/triple the amount of plastic and metal treadmills
Last but not least, we have the IN10CT Health Runner. This is a low-noise, low-maintenance, manually powered treadmill that slots well into home or public gyms.
The key feature that sets this free run treadmill apart from others and the reason why you may pick it over the others is the incline settings. Inclined workouts are known for their higher intensity which results in greater muscle activation and calories burned, and this treadmill can be manually adjusted up to 30% (roughly 17 degrees).
- Speed range: 0 to 50 mph
- Max incline: 30%
- Folding: Not foldable
- Weight Limit: 400 pounds
- Item weight: Around 330 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 69 L x 32 W x 61 H inches
- Display: LCD
- Running surface: 61 L x 17 W inches
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 3-year parts and components
- Workout programs: None
- Additional features: Manual incline setting
The Health Runner treadmill arrives fully assembled, saving you the hassle of putting it together. It is designed to be low maintenance and it lacks any complex electrical components that could potentially malfunction. The treadmill is equipped with a digital console that conveniently displays important workout metrics such as time, speed, distance, and calories burned. The console operates on battery power and charges while you use the treadmill.
In terms of performance, the IN10CT surpasses the average curved treadmill. It boasts impressive specifications, including a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds and a top speed of 50 mph. Running on the IN10CT treadmill is comfortable thanks to the rubber slats and PU belt.
Additionally, it offers a respectable warranty, with a 5-year coverage for the frame and a 3-year coverage for parts and components. While it may not have the longest warranty on the market, it still provides extended coverage compared to most manufacturers.
Positives:
Up to 30% (roughly 17 degrees) manual incline setting
Comes pre-assembled
Comfortable rubber slats are easy on the joints
Could be better:
The display is a bit small and the black-on-white color scheme makes it harder to read
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Standard Treadmill VS Curved Treadmill
The main difference between a curved manual treadmill and a standard flat surface one lies in how they are powered and operated.
Flat surface treadmills utilize a continuous belt that is driven by a motor, allowing users to adjust speed, incline, and resistance through the treadmill's computerized control panel. The belt will continue to move until a console command tells it otherwise or is turned off.
In contrast, curved treadmills rely entirely on the physical input of the user. When walking, jogging, or running at a natural pace, the treadmill moves accordingly, and when the user stops, the treadmill comes to a halt as well. The u shaped treadmill design provides a self-paced workout experience, requiring continuous pushing off to keep the belt in motion. In simple terms, the faster you run, the faster the belt will go. The curved surface also adds natural incline resistance, making the workout more challenging.
Curved treadmills offer several advantages over standard treadmills. The curvature promotes a more natural running or walking gait, engaging a greater number of muscles. Additionally, the curved surface helps reduce the impact on joints by absorbing some of the shock with each stride. However, it's worth noting that curved treadmills may have a steeper learning curve and require some adjustment for users to become accustomed to the unique experience.
What To Look For In The Best Curved Treadmill
If you’re looking to get a curved treadmill, you may be wondering what aspects you should look out for. You want to get the most value for your money, but it’s also a good idea to avoid overpaying for something that might not align with your expectations. These are the elements to consider when deciding on your purchase.
1. Adjustability
Curved treadmills tend to be simple machines that don’t offer too much in terms of adjustability. That said, some models are built to cater to different user preferences and workout intensities. This may include the ability to adjust the resistance level, thus creating a more challenging workout. Similarly, some curved treadmills have adjustable inclines, allowing them to simulate an uphill walk or run and activate different muscle groups. The extent of adjustability varies between different models, and spending more money doesn’t necessarily guarantee higher levels of workout customization.
2. Monitor Functionality
Monitor functionality is hardly the focus of a typical fitness treadmill due to the lack of a constant electricity source. For this reason, most curved runners only have basic LCD displays that display relevant information such as time, calories, distance, and heart rate.
The provided stats should be sufficient for most users to track and achieve workout goals. However, at higher price ranges, such as with the Rogue Woodway and NOHrD treadmills, we can see monitors with more advanced features.
3. Portability
While curved treadmills are generally heavy and bulky, almost all of them are designed to be portable and compact to better fit into limited home spaces and tight corners. All of these treadmills feature transportation wheels that allow you to roll them around from room to room, meaning that they technically don’t require a permanent space on your floor. That said, some are heavier than others and may require more than one person to move, lowering their overall portability grade.
4. Versatility
A free run treadmill is fully manually powered, so the type of workout you can use it for is limited only to your physical ability. These treadmills are perfectly good and comfortable for walking, jogging, and running, and are exceptional for HIIT or fitness workouts where quickly switching speeds is necessary.
5. Comfort
Comfort levels can also vary depending on the price range, with a higher-end curved running machine typically using more cushioned materials on the slats and more sophisticated drive systems underneath the belt. That said, it’s a relief to know curved treadmills generally exert less impact on the joints compared to traditional motorized treadmills.
6. Value for Money
The relationship between price and quality is most often a matter of personal perspective and available budget. In general, higher-priced curved treadmills are expected to offer superior performance and durability compared to their more affordable counterparts. However, it is important to note that a premium price tag does not always guarantee the best value for money.
A cheap curved treadmill can still receive a high rating in terms of its price-to-quality ratio by surpassing the performance of other treadmills in its price range and delivering an above-average experience overall. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your individual preferences and budgetary considerations. While it’s safer to pay more, it isn’t always necessary.
How To Use A Curved Treadmill Right?
While U-shaped treadmills may appear intimidating at first glance, they’re some of the more intuitive and user-friendly cardio machines. Using them may take some getting used to, so here are some tips to help you get started and get the most out of your curved treadmill.
1. Start Slow And Gradually Increase Intensity
Curved treadmills may take a few strides to get going. If you jump on them and immediately try to run, the belt may not be able to catch up, which can cause you to trip and fall or jam the machine.
2. Keep A Straight Posture
Maintaining proper posture while walking or running is crucial for a safe and effective workout. Keep your head up, shoulders back, and back straight, with your gaze forward. Neglecting proper posture can result in balance issues, improper muscle activation, and an increased risk of injury. If you find yourself struggling with your posture, use the handrails for support or take a moment to rest.
3. Use The Right Shoes
Most manual treadmills feature a natural incline and a non-slip surface designed to grip athletic shoes. It is important to wear proper footwear during your workout to ensure comfort and reduce the risk of injury. Avoid using shoes with flat soles, as they do not provide sufficient traction and may cause slipping. Additionally, investing in running shoes with comfort features such as foam padding, heel support, and breathable materials will make the workout enjoyable.
FAQ
Are Curved Treadmills Good For Running?
Do Curved Treadmills Burn More Calories?
Is It Harder To Run On A Curved Treadmill?
Conclusion
- The Effect of a Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill on Running Gait Length // NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6162380/
- Treadmill and Running Speed Effects on Acceleration Impacts // ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/351734968
- Non-motorized Treadmill Running Is Associated with Higher Cardiometabolic Demands Compared with Overground and Motorized Treadmill Running // NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5694659/
- Measuring the Biomechanics and Energetics of Curved vs. Traditional Treadmills in Female Adults // ProQuest: https://www.proquest.com/openview/10e5967d855d6b790bc1583e04bfe64b/1.pdf
- The physiological and perceptual demands of running on a curved non-motorised treadmill // JSAMS: https://www.jsams.org/article/S1440-2440(18)30145-2/fulltext
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships –105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.