Have you been using a treadmill at your home, and now you wish to move it to another area?
Transporting a treadmill is challenging, especially with larger models. Tight spaces like doors and stairs, along with the risk of accidents or property damage, add to the difficulty. Many people need guidance on how to move a treadmill safely and efficiently.
If not well handled, you could end up destroying your treadmill. Or even have some injury to yourself. This is mainly because treadmills are bulky in design. The wrong moving techniques adopted can make this task stressful and overwhelming.
Having moved treadmills many times, here are some tips to make it easier and safer. I’ll walk you through how to disassemble your treadmill. I will tell you how to use its wheels to move it through doors, up/down stairs, or even into a truck.
Step 1: Preparation of the Treadmill for Moving
The first thing that needs to be done is to prepare the treadmill for the moving process. It also helps to save time and effort and avoid possible harm to the equipment or your house. [1]
How to Disassemble a Treadmill to Move It
Many treadmills are portable but they are always large and heavy in construction. This is very ideal especially when you want to transport the treadmill from one place to another. It will be easier to do so when disassembled.
Unplug the treadmill
First, make sure that it is switched off by removing it from the power outlet. It is to make sure that there isn’t any possibility of electric shock.
Fold the treadmill
If your treadmill has folding mechanism, lock the deck in the upright position. This makes the treadmill shorter and you have an easy time when you are relocating the treadmill.
video credit: Morgan Nelson
Remove parts if necessary
Some models enable you to take off parts such as handrails or console screens. You can easily move through doors and doorways or any confined space. Place the screws and other parts in another bag and label it so that you do not get confused when assembling it.
Step 2: Moving the Treadmill within the Same House
If you’re moving the treadmill from one room to another or dealing with stairs, the process is a bit different.
How to Move a Treadmill with Wheels
Most treadmills have wheels that are already installed at the rear part of the equipment. Their moving will not be a problem. To move the treadmill with wheels:To move the treadmill with wheels:
Tilt and roll
After folding the treadmill, turn it on the wheels by raising one end of the equipment.
video credit: Jay Thomas
Guide the treadmill carefully
Do not push it too much on the floor because this can cause a lot of harm to the floor. If your floor has hardwood or any other delicate material, then be careful.
Move slowly
In control of the treadmill, it is advisable to move around the treadmill slowly. Focus more around the corners.
How to Move a Treadmill Through a Door
It becomes a little challenging when it comes to maneuvering the treadmill through doorways. If you’ve decided to dismantle or fold the treadmill, it should fit through most doors easily.. But if it is still too bulky, try to turn it to the side or try to angle it.
Measure the door
Take time to measure the treadmill. This ensures it can fit through the door without causing any damage.
Tilt and twist
If it’s a tight fit, tilt the treadmill at an angle. Then, slowly swing it while guiding it through the door.
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How to Move a Treadmill Downstairs by Yourself
It is even more challenging to move a treadmill downstairs perhaps when you are alone in the process. Still, it is possible if one has time and uses the proper approach to it.
Position carefully
When starting to perform the maneuver, make sure you are at the top of the stairs and you have a clear path.
Use a blanket or rug
To add an extra layer of safety, I recommend putting a rug or a moving blanket on the stairs so that they don’t scratch against the furniture.
Slide or step it down
If the treadmill is not very heavy, then you can try to push it down, step by step. If not, turn it over on to wheels and manoeuvre it slowly while ensuring that the structure is steady.
How to Move a Treadmill Upstairs
Moving a treadmill upstairs is like moving it downstairs, but this time, gravity won’t be on your side.
Get a helper
It is even better and safer to ask for help from another person to take the treadmill upstairs. If you are alone, then go step by step.
Use leverage
Bend the treadmill a little to the side to bring the wheels into contact. Then using your legs, lift it one step at a time.
Safety first
Take breaks often and do not be in a hurry while solving the problems. It is not safe to be jogging on the treadmill on the stairs. You don’t want to be in a position whereby you are in control of the treadmill.
How to Move a Treadmill from One Room to Another
If you are not going to transport the treadmill across the stairs it is a fairly easy process.
Fold it first
Tuck in the treadmill so that it can take less space in the house.
Use the wheels
There are wheels at the rear end of the treadmill which makes it easy to move the equipment.
Clear the path
Ensure there are no obstructions that are likely to hinder you such as chairs or tables.
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Step 3: Moving the Treadmill
In case you are relocating the treadmill to another house, then you will be required to move it in a car.
How to Transport a Treadmill in a Truck
The key to transporting a treadmill is carrying it in a truck. It must be securely tied to prevent damage during transit.
Disassemble the treadmill
If possible, some of the large parts should be removed and disassembled so that they can fit into the truck.
Use moving blankets
Place moving blankets around the treadmill so as not to scratch or ding the machine while moving.
Secure it in place
Tie it with straps or ropes to the side of the truck so as it may not shift during transportation.
Step 4: Cost and Efforts
Can One Person Move a Treadmill?
Of course, it is quite easy for you to carry a treadmill. If your treadmill has wheels then you can do it more conveniently. But when it comes to bigger and bulkier models, it is advisable and convenient to have at least one companion. Transporting a treadmill alone, especially up or down stairs, can be dangerous.
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Treadmill?
The cost of moving a treadmill varies depending on whether you do it yourself or hire professional movers. If you handle it yourself, you’ll mainly need to cover costs for protective materials like blankets or straps. Hiring movers, but, can cost between $100 and $300, depending on the complexity of the move.
Tips on How to Easily Move a Treadmill
- It is easier to move a treadmill when done with the help of another person.
- The use of furniture sliders, dollies and straps can be of great help when moving furniture.
- Make sure you have a clear path for walking so that you do not trip or get locked in a small area.
- Treadmill moving is an exercise that needs time to be done to avoid any incidents or destruction. [2]
5 Top Brands to Consider for Easily Manueveable Treadmills
NordicTrack
- Known for their SpaceSaver design with EasyLift Assist
- Many models feature wheels for easy transport
- Foldable designs for compact storage
Bow flex
- Offers the Bow flex Treadmill 22 with a compact folding design
- Soft Drop folding system for safe and easy lowering
- Transport wheels for convenient relocation
Sole Fitness
- Models like the F80 feature easy-assist folding deck
- Flywheels mounted in front for easier lifting when folded
- Heavy-duty wheels for smooth movement
Pro Form
- Space Saver design with Easy Lift Assist, similar to Nordic Track
- Compact folding models available
- Some models have front-mounted transport wheels
Horizon Fitness
- Features like the FeatherLight folding frame
- Hydraulic folding assist makes lifting the deck easy
- Compact designs with transport wheels for easy moving
Conclusion
Moving a treadmill, whether within a house or to a new home, can be straightforward with the right steps. Disassembling the machine, navigating stairs, and fitting through doorways can all be managed with the right techniques.
Remember, rushing can lead to mistakes or damage. Take your time to avoid injury and protect your equipment.
Source:
Schow, C. (2024, January 30). How to move a treadmill: A comprehensive guide – Neighbor Blog. Neighbor Blog.
Cpo, M. S. S. (2023, April 15). 3 simple ways to move a treadmill – WikiHow. wikiHow.
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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