The Perfect Fit: 10 Best Treadmills for Low Ceilings 2023

*HomeGymUnlimited helps consumers find the best home fitness products. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

This article is our review of the best treadmills for low ceilings.

If you’re looking to buy a treadmill, but have a low ceiling, there are solutions.

You can find low profile treadmills that fit even the smallest spaces. Some of my personal training clients are in this situation. I did the research to ensure you get one right for your space.

In this article, I’ll go over the best treadmills for low ceilings. And help you find one that will work even if your ceiling is as low as 8 feet tall. 

The winning treadmill for Low Ceilings is Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill.

Top Pick

Best Treadmill for Low Ceilings

Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill

Low deck height of 3 inches

9 built-in programs

Speeds ranging from 0.6 – 9 mph

Check on Amazon Check on Sunny

I’ll help you estimate how much space you need for each treadmill, and give tips on what you should look for in the best treadmill for your home gym.

Apart from height considerations, you should also check what each product has to offer.

Keep reading to find out more.

Table of Contents

• Best Treadmill for Low Ceilings
  • Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill
• Height Considerations
  • Deck Height
  • Incline Height
  • User Height
  • Ceiling Height
• 9 Best Treadmills For Low Ceilings
  • Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill
  • LifeSpan TR1200-GlowUp Under Desk Treadmill
  • Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
  • XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill
  • XTERRA TR150 Treadmill
  • 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill
  • Horizon T101 Treadmill
  • NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
  • Sole F63 Treadmill
• What to look for in a Treadmill?
  • Running Surface
  • Speed And Incline
  • Workout Programs
  • Deck Cushioning
  • Storage
  • Safety Features
  • Price and Warranty
• Which Treadmill is Best for Low Ceilings?
• FAQ About Best Treadmills For Low Ceilings
• What to do next?

Height Considerations

If you are unsure if your ceiling can accommodate your treadmill, here are a few considerations to check. Also, I will help you estimate how much space you need for each treadmill.

Deck Height

Deck height or step-up height is the distance from the floor to the top of the running surface of your treadmill. Most treadmills have a deck height of around 8 inches or higher without the incline. Deck height can significantly affect how much space you have to move around and use your treadmill.

Since your gym has a low ceiling, you may want to look for a treadmill with a lower deck height. This will provide you with more space to move comfortably while exercising.

*I included the step-up height of each treadmill below for your reference.

Incline Height

The incline is how steeply inclined or tilted up from level ground your treadmill will be. The incline feature allows users to mimic outdoor running by simulating hills and mountains during workouts without going outside.

Treadmills typically incline to about 10-15%. However, some treadmills can go as high as 40% incline, while others do not have an incline feature. So it’s best to check the treadmill specifications first.

Since the inclined height is not usually specified, let’s assume an estimate of 7 inches for the incline [1]. If you have the opportunity to measure the incline height, I recommend you do that. Make sure to measure the height of the maximum or highest incline.

*Assumed Inclined Height = 7 inches

User Height

User height refers to how tall you are when standing upright, or the height of the tallest user. Based on average, the average American male stands at five feet and nine inches tall, while the average American female stands at five feet and four inches tall  [2]. Since men are relatively taller, let’s use the average height of men for the calculation. If you want to be certain, you can use your exact height to calculate.

Since you will be using shoes while exercising, let’s add 1 inch to your height. Additionally, you will need some head clearance while running, so let’s assume a 1-foot extra space  [3].

*Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

Average Height Of American Man= 5 feet and 9 inches

Assumed Running Shoes Sole Height = 1 inch

Assumed Head Clearance For Running = 1 foot

Ceiling Height

Ceiling height is another consideration. Measure it so you can get a sense of how much space you have to work with. The standard ceiling height of American homes is nine feet [4]. If it’s less than nine feet, then it is considered low.

If light fixtures are hanging from above, you will want to ensure they will not interfere with your running.

So, taking into account the other height considerations, you can compute the estimated minimum ceiling height you need using the formula below.

*Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

9 Best Treadmills For Low Ceilings

Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill

If you want the best treadmill for low ceilings, I recommend you check out the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill. The deck height is only 3 inches, which is the lowest I could find. Plus, it does not have an incline feature, so the only height consideration is the deck height.

You’ll have a lot of space to move around on the platform without hitting your head on the ceiling (or having to duck). It may not have an incline feature, but it has nine built-in programs and speeds ranging from 0.6 – 9 mph to keep things interesting.

For safety purposes, it comes with an emergency stop clip if something goes wrong during your run. Also, it uses a shock absorption system to reduce the impact on your joints.

The deck length is only 47 inches, which is way shorter than the recommended length of 60 inches for tall runners. So if you are tall, I recommend this for walking, but you may run here if you are short. This treadmill is also an excellent option for seniors or those undergoing therapy, because the step-up height is very low.

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 7 feet and 1 inch or 2.159 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 3 inches
• Incline Height = 0
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

LifeSpan TR1200-GlowUp Under Desk Treadmill

If the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill is too low for you, then LifeSpan TR1200-GlowUp Under Desk Treadmill might fit your needs. With a deck height of 4.6 inches and no incline feature, it’s perfect if you’re looking to get a workout under a low ceiling.

This is an under-desk treadmill, so you can put it under the desk so you can exercise while working. However, no one will interfere if you want to use this in your home gym. Like other under-desk treadmills, LifeSpan does not have hand bars to hold onto.

Due to its short running surface, like Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill, this treadmill is only recommended for walking. Plus, the speed only ranges from 0.4 mph up to 4 mph.

If you want to monitor your progress, this treadmill comes with a step-counting feature like a pedometer. It also comes with an Intelli-Guard feature that automatically pauses the treadmill belt when you step off. So there’s never any risk of getting caught up in it while working out.

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 7 feet and 2.6 inches or 2.2 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 4.6 inches
• Incline Height = 0
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill

If you prefer your treadmill to have an incline feature, take a look at XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill. The deck height is 5.02 inches, and it has three levels of manual incline. It has an incline feature, so you need to consider the incline height for your low ceiling. 

The speed ranges from 0.5 – 10 mph, so you can adjust it according to your preference. You’ll also love the 13 workout programs; 12 are preset, and the other is a manual program. 

In addition to its compact size, this treadmill has a foldable design with Lift Assist, which makes it easy to store if necessary. Another great feature of the XTERRA TRX1000 Treadmill is its deck cushioning technology, which means the surface of this treadmill is comfortable for you to use. Plus, it has hand pulse sensors on the handlebars, so you can accurately track your heart rate at all times.

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 7 feet and 10.02 inches or 2.39 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 5.02 inches
• *Assumed Incline Height = 7 inches
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

XTERRA TR150 Treadmill

3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill

If you need a higher incline than XTERRA TR150 Treadmill, 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill has more incline options for you. The 3G Cardio treadmill has an incline range of 0 to 15 levels so you can choose the right incline level for your workout. 

Also, 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill has a speed ranging from 0.5 to 11 mph, which is also higher than XTERRA treadmills.

The 18.5″ x 58″ running belt has enough space for even the tallest runners to feel comfortable. You can move freely and won’t have to worry about feeling cramped or having your footsteps falling off the edge of the belt.

This treadmill can fold flat to fit under your bed or stand vertically against a wall in your home gym.

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 7 feet and 10.5 inches or 2.4 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 5.5 inches
• *Assumed Incline Height = 7 inches
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

Horizon T101 Treadmill

Another option for you is the Horizon T101 Treadmill. Like 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill, Horizon T101 also has more incline options than XTERRA treadmills. 

However, Horizon has a lower speed range and incline than the 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill. The deck is also higher in Horizon, which is 7.125 inches.

With 30 programmed workouts, Horizon T101 has the most workout programs on this list. You will find this feature advantageous if you want to stay challenged and don’t want to get bored with your workouts.

The T101 has an incline from 0-10 levels, giving you plenty of options for changing your workout routine. It also has a low-high speed setting that allows you to go between 0.5 and 10 mph. With a running belt size of 20 x 55 inches, Horizon T101 is best suited for walking.

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 8 feet and 0.125 inches or 2.44 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 7.125 inches
• *Assumed Incline Height = 7 inches
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill

Features	NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
Dimensions	Length: 67.5 in (171.45 cm) Width: 35.75 in (90.81 cm) Height: 73 in (185.42 cm)
Step Up Height	7.5 in (19.05 cm)
Weight	203 lbs (92.08 kg)
Maximum User Weight	300 lbs (136.08 kg)
Incline	0-10°
Speed	0 – 10 mph
Running Surface	22 in x 55 in Tread Belt
Workout programs	20 workout routines
Storage	Foldable
Other Features	Dual CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor 30-Day iFIT Membership iPod™ Compatible Sound System
Warranty	10-Year Frame Warranty 2-Year Parts Warranty 1-Year Labor Warranty

Another option with many workout programs like Horizon T101 is the NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill. This treadmill includes twenty preset programs, studio classes, and trainer-led exercises—allowing you to select the workout that best meets your needs.

This treadmill has a 0.5- to 10-mph speed range and an incline that goes from 0 to 10°. It enables you to run faster and sprint because it allows you to work out in various settings.

The console displays everything from the time elapsed to calories burned to distance traveled—and readouts are large enough that you can see them even if you’re running at full speed.

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 8 feet and 0.5 inch or 2.45 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 7.5 inches
• *Assumed Incline Height = 7 inches
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

Buy on Amazon

---

Sole F63 Treadmill

If you want to have a more challenging workout, you should try the Sole F63 Treadmill. It has a maximum incline of 15 levels, the same as the 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat. Plus, it has the highest speed range on this list (0 to 12 mph) and includes ten workout programs.

With a 20 in x 60 running surface, it’s the perfect size for running and walking. If you are tall, you will observe that this treadmill is very accommodating to your height. And if you are short, you will still find that the treadmill is comfortable to use.

However, Sole F63 has the highest deck height on this list (8 inches).

To accommodate this treadmill in your gym, the estimated minimum height of your ceiling should be around 8 feet and 1 inch or 2.46 meters.

Estimated Minimum Ceiling Height = Deck Height + Incline Height + User Height

• Deck Height = 8 inches
• *Assumed Incline Height = 7 inches
• *Assumed User Height = 6 feet and 10 inches

*Check height consideration.

What to look for in a Treadmill?

Running Surface

The running deck is the area where you will be running on. It should be large enough for your stride and feel stable underfoot. Ensure there are no seams or sharp edges on the deck, as these can cause blisters or injuries if you step off course during a run.

As a general rule, walkers should use a belt at least 50 inches long, runners 55 inches, and runners over 6 feet tall should use a 60 inches belt [5].

Speed And Incline

Speed and incline are the two main features you must watch out for when buying a treadmill. Many treadmills have preset speeds, but these may not suit your needs or preferences. 

An adjustable speed and incline system is a better option. It allows you to set the pace yourself. You should also look for a control panel with large buttons so that it is easy to operate even when running.

Workout Programs

Most treadmills come with pre-programmed workouts that allow users to have complete control over their workout routine without needing any outside help from professional trainers. 

These programs help you to target specific areas of your body and provide you with a full-body workout. Some treadmills also have fitness tracking apps which you can install on your smartphone or tablet to monitor your progress over time.

Deck Cushioning

The cushioning on the deck of your treadmill is crucial to your comfort and safety. While a harder surface may boost your performance, it can also lead to joint pain and other injuries during long workouts. A soft deck will help you maintain an even pace without straining yourself or putting too much pressure on your joints. You should also look for treadmills with shock absorption systems that reduce impact when running unlike hard surfaces like concrete floors.

Storage

Treadmills are bulky and can take up a lot of space in your home gym. So you should look for one that has a foldable design or can be easily disassembled. This will allow you to store it away when not in use to free up room for other activities. If your space is limited, consider purchasing a folding treadmill instead of an ordinary model.

Safety Features

Some treadmills come with safety sensors that stop the belt when you fall off. This feature is especially useful for seniors who may be susceptible to falling while running. You should also look for treadmills with a safety key or pin to prevent unauthorized use.

Price and Warranty

The treadmill price is a significant consideration for most buyers. You should shop around and compare prices before purchasing a treadmill to ensure you’re getting a good deal. 

To protect your investment, look for a treadmill with a warranty. Warranty lengths vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so you should read the fine print before making your choice.

Which Treadmill is Best for Low Ceilings?

So the best treadmill for low ceilings is the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill because the deck height is only 3 inches. It has the lowest deck height I could find. 

Considering other height considerations, the estimated minimum ceiling height that can accommodate this treadmill should be around 7 feet and 1 inch or 2.159 meters. This is lower than the standard ceiling height of American homes today.

Additionally, Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider Treadmill has nine built-in programs with speeds ranging from 0.6 to 9 mph. And thanks to its smart functionality, it connects to SunnyFit APP for expert training.

FAQ About Best Treadmills For Low Ceilings

What to do next?

I hope you’ve found this guide helpful as you consider the best treadmills for low ceilings. If you follow our tips and consider all of your options before making a decision, then finding the perfect low profile treadmill for your needs will be an easy task. Here are other treadmill articles that might interest you.

Related Articles:

• Sole vs. Horizon Treadmill
• Stairmaster Vs. Treadmill
• Best Exercise Machine For Toning Whole Body: Treadmill
• Home Gym Equipment Guide: Treadmill