Like with many other fitness equipment, treadmill users may ask themselves how fast treadmills can go. This uncertainty can prevent people from getting the most out of their workouts. Thus they are unsure of what the machine can do.
This is because users are unable to determine the appropriate treadmill speed. Hence they either exert themselves and possibly injure themselves or under exercise. Therefore do not meet the desired fitness. This has the potential of being rather irritating particularly when attempting to classify workouts. It depends on the level of fitness or training goals.
In this guide, I will explain the various speed classes of treadmills with my experience, research, and facts. From the average speed by age, record treadmill running, gym treadmill vs home treadmill. This comparison guide will be very useful to get the best out of your treadmill effectively.
How Fast Do Treadmills Go?
The speed of a treadmill mainly depends on the construction and use of the treadmill. The treadmill for general fitness, stress testing, and high-intensity training differ in so many ways. On average, most treadmill models have a maximum speed control of between 10 to 12 miles per hour (mph).
It is well-suitable for most jogging and running enthusiasts. However, other sophisticated equipment can extend this. You can incorporate it in the training programs of the elite athletes and some specific training. [1]
Average Treadmill Speed by Age
It depends on the age of the individual as the levels of physical fitness differ greatly. For example, people of age 20 or 30 would run more than people of age 50 or 60. Based on my teaching and other personal fitness coaching experiences, young people maintain speeds of about 7- 9 mph during sustained runs.
Although 4 to 6 mph might be comfortable for the elderly, the same is not for the younger ones. These speeds are not cast in stone and vary with the fitness level of the person. But this treadmill speed chart can help the elderly, new users, and different age groups.
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Fastest Treadmill Speed Record
For those interested in how fast treadmills can go, let’s look at the highest end of the treadmill spectrum. The highest recorded treadmill speed ever was 25mph. This was done by the professional athletes on treadmills reaching the extremity of the human speed.
However, achieving such velocities is possible only with the help of a perfect treadmill and proper physical training. Average consumer treadmills that can be bought for home use or commercial use will not achieve this kind of speed. There are treadmill models that are specifically designed for this.
Treadmill Speed Chart
It will be equally beneficial to have a treadmill speed chart, especially in a bid to monitor and manage your workouts. Here’s a simple breakdown of what various speeds typically mean for different types of activity:
1 to 2 mph: Walking at a slow pace, it is perfect for learners or before the main exercise.
3 to 4 mph: Jogging, for general fitness and occasional walking or running.
5 to 6 mph: Jogging speed, that is used for moderate-intensity cardio exercises.
7 to 9 mph: Energy or jogging pace, more frequently for better aerobic workouts.
10 to 12 mph: Sprinting speed, for those who want to try the next level of performance.
13 to 25 mph: Athletes running or training for a short distance at very high intensity, can be done only on such equipment.
| Activities | Speed Range |
| Walking (Slow Pace) | 1-2 mph |
| Jogging (Light) | 3-4 mph |
| Jogging (Moderate) | 5-6 mph |
| Running (Energetic) | 7-9 mph |
| Sprinting | 10-12 mph |
| Running (Elite) | 13-25 mph |
This chart is just an example, but everyone’s fitness and personal goals will define the actual speeds you will use during training. Some gym treadmills could also have preset charts depending on every individual’s statistics and facts.
Is there a 25 mph Treadmill?
If you have ever asked yourself if a 25 mph treadmill exists, the answer is yes. However, they are very limited in availability and are designed for athletes who require high-speed training. These treadmills are commonly used in professional training facilities for sports athletes.
The average treadmill in the local gym or your home will only go up to 12 mph. It is quite enough for every fitness level. Going near such speeds as 25 mph will be a real extreme. It is impossible to do it without a suitable bike and fantastic physical shape.
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How Fast Does Treadmill Go for Stress Tests?
The medical treadmills that are used in stress tests are not to be confused with normal fitness treadmills. These are not the tests of your physical fitness but of your heart, gradually increasing the stress to determine its health.
These treadmills can generally go up to only 6 to 7 mph, and the speed rises step by step throughout the test. Analyzing the mechanics of treadmills and how they are used, it becomes obvious that these devices are designed to focus on security and gradual exertion.
How Fast Do Walking Treadmills Go?
Low-impact exercise treadmills or those used for rehabilitation are different from running treadmills in speed. On average, these machines have a speed limit of about 4mph, sufficient for even power walking.
They are intended for users who want to integrate walking into their activities and who do not require a fast Internet connection. This makes the walking treadmills ideal for newcomers to this type of exercise and people who are coming back from an injury.
How Fast Do the Average Treadmills Go?
The treadmill that is common in homes and gyms has a maximum speed ranging from 10 to
12 mph. This range is suitable for most users including those who like to walk, jog, or even run. As I have had the opportunity to work on several treadmill brands, I must say that this speed range is enough for everyone. At these speeds, users can do HIIT or long-distance running without the need for a machine that caters to ultra athletes.
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How Fast Do Gym Treadmills Go?
Club treadmills are known to be more sophisticated than home treadmills. Most of them are equipped with a slightly higher speed range with most of them having a maximum speed of between 12 and 15 mph. Extra speed is provided to meet the needs of athletes and those who want to get more rigid training.
In my case, the commercial treadmills have more powerful motors and improved cushioning. Nonetheless, even gym treadmills only go up to about 15 mph. It is at least for consumer fitness equipment, not professional training equipment. [2]
Are Some Treadmills Faster Than Others?
Absolutely! Not all treadmills are the same; the speed that any treadmill can go by
- The motor
- The purpose of the treadmill
- The construction of the treadmill.
Most home treadmills are primarily budget-friendly and easy to place. This is why their top speeds range from 10 to 12 mph. However, there are treadmills for the high end fitness gym or the competitive training treadmill that can go up to 15mph and above. There are also specific treadmills, for sprinters. They can go even faster, although the 25 mph treadmill models have been noted earlier in this article.
This difference in speed potential is one reason why you need to select the correct treadmill for you. A regular treadmill works for casual users, but athletes or those training for speed need faster machines.
5 Best Fast Treadmills for Speed Training
NordicTrack Commercial X32i
Max Speed: 12 mph
Known for its powerful motor and incline capabilities, this treadmill is ideal for serious runners looking to hit high speeds and challenging workouts.
Peloton Tread+
Max Speed: 12.5 mph
This premium treadmill offers an engaging, fast-paced workout with live and on-demand classes, perfect for those seeking to push their limits.
ProForm Pro 9000
Max Speed: 12 mph
With advanced features and a high-speed motor, the ProForm Pro 9000 is designed for intense training sessions and long-distance running.
Sole F85
Max Speed: 12 mph
A reliable and durable treadmill, the Sole F85 is great for those who want a combination of speed and comfort for everyday use.
Woodway 4Front
Max Speed: 15 mph
Popular in gyms, this treadmill is designed for elite athletes, offering a smooth, high-speed experience with advanced shock absorption.
Conclusion
The possible range of speeds for a treadmill and their further distribution depends on the type of equipment and the purpose of its use. For most home users, a treadmill with a maximum speed of between 10 to 12 mph will be very adequate for walking, jogging or running. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts aiming for top speeds will need advanced or premium treadmills that can reach up to 25 mph.
It is crucial to know the potential of your treadmill in an attempt to avoid setting unrealistic fitness goals or incurring an injury. Whether you are training for a marathon, utilizing a treadmill for stress tests or just for walking as an exercise, there is a machine that fits the bill. And as I have discovered, the main aim is to search for a treadmill that will suit your fitness level. It must be capable of being adjusted to increase the speed step by step.
knowing the speed at which treadmills are capable of going will help you
- Fine-tune your workouts
- Monitor your progress
- Make the equipment more of a challenge to you.
Source:
Kaiser, S. (2024, September 25). How fast does a treadmill go? Treadmill Review Guru.
Johnson, J., & Images, A. T. (2019, July 9). How fast is 10 on a treadmill? Livestrong.com.
Get~Fitness Author
Diego Alcubierre is a Certified Running Coach (CRC) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). With a Bachelor of Science in Sports and Exercise Physiology, he specializes in creating evidence-based content on running, strength training, and fitness. Diego's expertise extends to developing tailored training plans that help runners achieve their goals while minimizing injury risk. His knowledge in sports nutrition and functional training enhances his approach to fitness. I hope to provide valuable information that will inspire and guide your wardrobe choices.
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