4 of the best curved treadmills: How to choose

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Curved treadmills are an alternative to standard treadmills and provide an aerobic workout. These treadmills do not need electricity to work.
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Curved treadmills are nonmotorized devices featuring a curved running surface. They require no electricity, as the person’s movement moves the treadmill belt forward. When the individual stops running, the belt also stops. These machines may suit those with a bigger budget and who wish to engage in intense exercises. They may also have links with improved posture, balance, and symmetry.
This article will explore what to look for in a curved treadmill, along with some products that people can consider. It will also look at some health benefits, potential risks, and alternative equipment and exercises.
What to look for in a curved treadmill
People may wish to consider the following factors before purchasing a curved treadmill:
Portability: Individuals may need a curved treadmill with wheels if they want or need to move it to another room.
Warranty: A person may need equipment with a warranty, as this may help with servicing defective equipment and exchanging parts. Warranties vary in length and what they cover, so individuals should read them carefully.
Setup: Easy setup may be important depending on the person’s ability. Many models require minimal setup, and since they do not require electricity, individuals can start using them right away.
Dimensions: People should consider comparing treadmill dimensions. This allows them to choose one that fits their workout space.
Weight limit: A person should choose a device with a sufficient weight limit to support their weight and keep them steady.
Belt length: Taller people or those with a longer stride should consider the length of the running area or belt.
List of best curved treadmills
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.
AssaultRunner
The AssaultRunner curved treadmill features:
a built-in handle
transport wheels
Bluetooth and ANT connectivity
onboard heart rate
interval programs
maximum user weight of 350 pounds (lb)
It also has a slat belt running surface that lasts up to 150,000 miles.
The curved treadmill weighs 280 lb and has the following dimensions:
length: 69.9 inches (in)
width: 32.8 in
height: 64 in
Additionally, the company offers:
free shipping
a 5-year frame warranty
a 3-year nonwear parts warranty
a 1-year labor warranty
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Xebex Runner Smart Connect
The Xebex Runner Smart Connect may suit all fitness levels and those with a bigger budget. People can connect the treadmill to third-party apps, such as Zwift, Xert, and RGT Cycling.
apps
Some additional features include:
phone holder
console tray
water bottle holder
four pillow block bearings
running area 67 in long and 17 in wide
It also comes with a 10 millimeter (mm) shock-absorbing vulcanized rubber surface, so runners do not put a lot of stress on their joints.
Its console keeps track of the person’s stats, such as heart rate, speed, and running time. It is also compatible with ANT+ chest belts for heart rate monitoring.
It has a net weight of 332 lb. Its dimensions are:
length: 71 in
width: 35 in
height: 60 in
The equipment also comes with:
a 10-year frame warranty
a 5-year parts warranty
a 2-year console warranty
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Rogue Trueform Trainer
This treadmill features a running width surface of 17 in, which is slightly less curved than alternative models. Other features include:
LED display for tracking speed, distance, pace, and time
compatibility with Polar heart monitors
thread surface with molded thermoplastic elastomer
The product weighs 280 lb, and its dimensions are:
length: 64 in
width: 31 in
height: 63 in
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NNI Fitness Curved Treadmill
This treadmill has an LED battery display screen that tracks the user’s progress.
It features polyurethane-reinforced responsive belt technology and a molded thermoplastic elastomer tread. This reportedly helps provide a natural running surface that reacts to changes in movement from the hips, posture, and force of the foot strike.
The machine also has a 17-in wide running surface.
Other features include:
eight resistance levels
joint protection and cushioning
molded thermoplastic elastomer thread surface for grip and safety
It weighs 375 lb and has the following dimensions:
length: 64 in
width: 31 in
height: 63 in
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Alternatives
Curved treadmills help people burn more calories, increase their heart rate and get a cardio workout inside their home. However, those interested in home cardio workouts may consider using other home gym equipment, such as:
Exercise bikes: People of any fitness level can typically use a bike. Many come with pulse monitors, spacesaving designs, and different resistance levels and programs for custom workouts.
Exercise bikes
Rowing machines: Rowing machines provide low impact workouts and target several muscle groups. People can change the speed, resistance, and workout duration on many models.
Rowing machines
Elliptical trainers: Ellipticals provide a low impact workout and involve a similar motion to walking and running. They often come with a resistance setting to help people control workout intensity, as well as displays for stats and programs for workout variations.
Elliptical trainers
Individuals who do not have the budget or room in their home may also consider engaging in other cardio exercises that do not require equipment. These can be body weight plyometrics, which people often refer to as jump training, and can use fast twitched muscles.
fast twitched muscles
Potential exercises include
Squat jumps: Target the lower body and can strengthen the muscles and burn fat.
Squat jumps
Plank jacks: The arms support the body’s weight as the person moves their legs. They can strengthen the muscles of the upper and lower body areas, including the core.
Jumping jacks: These move the entire body and target the heart, lungs, and various muscle groups.
Health considerations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that people should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise each week. Walking or running on a treadmill, especially a curved treadmill, can help a person meet this goal.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
A 2017 study noted that individuals have to work harder on a curved treadmill because instead of the belt going at a set pace, the runner determines the pace. People with a lower body mass may have to work at a higher intensity to overcome the equipment’s belt resistance than those with a higher body mass index.
2017 study
However, this effect may not be applicable to those with lower body mass. A small 2018 study compared the oxygen consumption and exertion of male runners completing 4 minute runs on a curved, nonmotorized treadmill, and a motorized treadmill. The researchers found that heart rate and oxygen consumption were higher on a curved treadmill compared to running on the motorized ones. They also noted an increase in running cadence or steps per minute.
small 2018 study
However, it is important to note that most people will spend longer than 4 minutes on a treadmill and that these effects may not persist past 4-minute runs.
In another study from 2018, researchers noted that running on a curved nonmotorized treadmill can improve a person’s running posture, balance, and symmetry. The noted improvements may work when they are not using a treadmill, but scientists need to conduct further research to determine the long-lasting effects.
study from 2018,
Though running on a curved treadmill can help people achieve their fitness goals, it may reduce their exposure to green space areas or open areas of natural features such as plants. In a 2018 systematic review, researchers found that green space exposure can have many health benefits. For example, it can increase sleep duration and reduce diastolic blood pressure and the chances of stroke.
2018 systematic review
diastolic blood pressure
stroke
However, indoor exercise is likely better than not moving at all. According to the CDC, people who do not exercise regularly may have an increased chance of developing certain health conditions, including:
CDC
heart disease
heart disease
cancer
cancer
type 2 diabetes
type 2 diabetes
obesity
obesity
osteoporosis
osteoporosis
high blood pressure
high blood pressure
Summary
Curved treadmills help people engage in high intensity running or walking exercises. The person controls the workout intensity since their movement powers the treadmill belt.
Evidence suggests that these treadmills may improve running posture, burn more calories, and increase the user’s heart rate more than a motorized treadmill.
People should consider comparing different brands and choose the exercise equipment that best suits their needs and budget.
Please note: Medical News Today does not imply warranty of fitness for a particular purpose or endorse any of these applications. Nobody at MNT has evaluated these apps for medical accuracy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved them unless otherwise indicated.