Is a Curved Treadmill Better Than a Flat One? Top 5 Picks!

Treadmills are one of the most effective and popular workouts used in the daily routine of healthy people for decades. The benefits of using a treadmill over other machinery and workout forms certainly weigh the cons, which is why serious innovation and modernism were added to treadmills as time passed. And as these equipment are highly popular for people who live a sedentary lifestyle, it is always wise to purchase a small walking machine for your calorie-burning and fat crunching needs at home.

Whether it is a working treadmill where you can lose pounds while working or even a foldable treadmill for running that comes out when you need it, this equipment offers a simple and effective manner to add healthy cardio into your routine. But are treadmills working in the same manner as years ago? Modern foldable walking treadmills are no more just simple equipment; you can enjoy many variations, such as a curved treadmill.

Are you tired of the same old workout routine on a flat treadmill? Have you heard about the newest trend in the fitness industry, the curved treadmill? A curved treadmill is a revolutionary piece of equipment that offers a unique and challenging workout experience. But what exactly is a curved treadmill, and how does it compare to its flat counterpart? A mini curved treadmill is popular today because of numerous health benefits, and using a curved treadmill over a flat one offers some advantages.

In this blog post, we'll dive into 5 of the best curved treadmills currently available. We'll also provide you with our expert buyer's guide that helps you with your purchase decision. So, if you're curious about trying out a curved treadmill or want to learn more about this innovative equipment, keep reading!

What is a Curved Treadmill?

A curved treadmill is a running platform designed for indoor running, which gives a similar experience to outdoor running on a curved path. With the curved treadmill, you can enjoy a running track experience in your home.

The distinguishing feature of a curved treadmill is that you will mostly find manual curved treadmills where your leg muscles solely power the running belt, and there is no electricity of similar power action required. You may move the treadmill belt by pushing with the balls of your feet as it has a curved, slatted running surface that allows you to move your body forward.

Flat vs. Curved Treadmills

A flat treadmill is a walking path with no curve, tilt, inclination, or angle involved in your way. This type of walking is similar to walking on a flat floor where no ups and downs come your way; hence you can maintain an equal pace or similar speed. Flat treadmills are highly useful for people who need to work out or want to get up from their desks but cannot practice intensive workouts due to muscle or joint limitations.

Moreover, a flat treadmill is also useful for working out under a desk because there is no extra movement involved, which can hinder your work routine. On the other hand, a curved treadmill has a certain angle or indentation in the pathway that requires you to engage the muscles actively.

Another major difference between flat and curved treadmills is the source of power. While flat treadmills are electrically or battery-powered to give a head start on the movement, a curved treadmill is solely self-powered through your muscles or legs.

Benefits of Curved Treadmill

Whether a self-powered curved treadmill or electrically powered, there are some benefits of using a curved treadmill over a flatter one. The popularity of curved treadmills raises some interesting concerns concerning the equipment's features, the mechanics of running, and the contrasts between jogging on land and using it. Below we have listed some pros and cons of using a curved treadmill.

Increased Energy and Engagement of Muscles

The curved treadmill uses more muscles when you're running. Especially the hamstrings and glutes. This is because the running belt must be propelled forward using a specific technique (similar to running outside). Reduced vertical body center displacement is another benefit of a curved treadmill (COM).

No Electricity Needed

They are more environmentally friendly because the user fully powers them. This saves you money on power and lowers your operational expenses.

Faster Calorie Burn Rate

On a curved treadmill, your calorie burn increases by 30%, according to its manufacturers. A non-motorized, curved treadmill produced better results than a normal motorized treadmill. Curved treadmills are ideal for High-Intensity Interval Training because of this higher intensity (HIIT).

You'll burn more calories than you would with ordinary aerobic exercise by raising your heart rate quicker and quickly and maintaining it. In our HIIT guide, you can learn more about the advantages of these incredibly effective exercises and how to perform them.

Simple to Use

Since the curved treadmill is fully user-driven, getting started is easy and quick. No buttons are necessary; jump on and lean forward to walk, jog, or run. We advise you to start on these treadmills by walking. This enables you to adjust to the difference before picking up the pace.

Safer for Joints

As you grow older, you are likely to skip workouts more often because of the aching joints or bone pain. But as a matter of fact, this is when you need to work out more than ever as older people tend to have a slower metabolism and need an active lifestyle to keep their bodies working efficiently.

Although it is fine to take a break once in a while, opting for gentle equipment on your body and joints is the right solution. A curved treadmill is less harmful to your joints because the curved surface helps ease the user onto the walking surface and thus reduces the pressure exerted on joints.

The 5 Best Curved Treadmill Reviews

1. AssaultRunner Pro - Overall Best Curved Treadmill

The Assault Fitness AirRunner is an exceptional curved foldable treadmill in the fitness industry. Its unique design and unrivaled features make it stand out. The treadmill is perfect for all types of training and intense workouts. With a portable and commercial durability of 150,000-mile belt life, this is the best curved treadmill on the market.

AssaultRunner Pro

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Specifications

Maximum Speed	20 Miles per Hour
Maximum Incline Percentage	30
Size	69.9"L x 32.8"W x 64"H
Compatible With	Assault Fitness App & Zwift
Onboard Programs	Time, Calories, Distance, Speed, Watts, Pace, Heart Rate

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Burns 30% more calories than a motorized treadmill	Expensive
Suitable for different types of workouts	Very heavy (280 lbs)
Allows users to power themselves (eco-friendly)
Durable and commercial-grade quality
Promotes efficient running stride

2. DKC Folding Treadmill – Outstanding Performance Curved Treadmill

The DKC Folding Treadmill is an outstanding performance curved treadmill that can reach speeds of up to 22 kilometers per hour. It's foldable and self-powered, and the running area measures 15.7"x 47". With its high-speed bearings, this manual curved treadmill provides users with a smooth and quiet workout experience with a maximum weight recommendation of 330 lbs.

DKC Folding Treadmill

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Specifications

Maximum Speed	22 km/h
Weight	88/81 lbs (40/37kg)
Special Feature	Foldable
Deck Length & Width	47" x 15.7"
Maximum User Weight	330 lbs

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
High-speed bearing providing smooth, quiet operation	High price tag
Self-powered	Not suitable for heavy-duty runners
Foldable
Maximum user weight recommendation of 330 lbs
Max speed is up to 22 km

3. SB Fitness CT400 – The Best Manual Curved Treadmill for Workout

The SB Fitness CT400 Manual Curved Treadmill is the best non-electric treadmill for a workout. Its body-powered mechanism allows you to maximize fat burning and get excellent session results. It has three adjustable resistance levels that challenge you and accommodate any level of fitness goal.

SB Fitness CT400

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Specifications

Maximum Speed	12 - 13 MPH
Weight	375 lbs
Product Dimensions	72"D x 31"W x 62"H
Net Weight	165 lbs
Running Area	18” x 60”

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Body-powered mechanism	Manual treadmill requires more effort
3 levels of resistance	Shorter deck length of 60 inches
Quick speed adjustments
The digital display shows time, distance, speed, calories, and more
Self-generated power source

4. Signature Fitness SF-S2 – Best Programmed Curved Treadmill

The Signature Fitness SF-S2 Sprint Demon is an excellent curved mini treadmill for high-intensity workouts. It's lightweight, offers great resistance levels, and has a digital display to track progress. With up to 30% more calories burned when compared to motorized treadmills, it will help you revolutionize your fitness routine and take it to the next level!

Signature Fitness SF-S2

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Specifications

Construction	Lightweight construction
Levels of resistance	7 levels
Easy to move	Mobility wheels on the front panel
Digital display	Digital display for calories, heart rate and speed

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Ultra-thin and flexible slats	It may be challenging for beginners
Burns up to 30% more calories	Not as advanced as motorized treadmills
7 levels of resistance
Lightweight and easy to move
Digital display shows multiple options

5. NOHrD Sprintbok – Stylish Manual Curved Treadmill

The NOHrD Sprintbok is a stylish manual curved treadmill with a smooth hardwood frame, a modern design, and a low-impact flexi-slat belt with a treadmill mat. It boasts an impressive 17.3” tablet with the Sprintbok app to track performance data while running and select from pre-designed workouts. The highest quality materials make it maintenance-free, apart from regular dusting, making it easy to maintain while delivering high-calorie burn results.

NOHrD Sprintbok

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Specifications

Maximum Incline Percentage	62%
Deck	55"L x 18"W
Maximum Weight Recommendation	220 lbs
Frame Material	Hardwood/ Wooden

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Smooth hardwood frame for vibration reduction	High price tag
Impressive modern design with curved belt	Not suitable for intense activities
Flexi-slat belt for shock absorption
Sturdy handlebar with tablet
Maintenance free machine

How to Use a Curved Treadmill?

A walking treadmill or a modern version such as a 2-in-1 folding treadmill is simply the best equipment for your daily workout where the whole body is engaged effectively. But since common treadmills like a flatter walking pad or a foldable under-desk treadmill are straightforward, some implications are involved with a curved one.

Most importantly, these treadmills are self-powered by your movement, giving you more control over speed, rate, intervals, and the breaks you take while working out. This also means that working out on a curved treadmill is much harder and requires a lot of stamina build-up. Hence, starting with a gentle walk is recommended to build momentum and then slowly increase your speed.

What To Consider When Buying a Curved Treadmill?

There are several things to consider when choosing a curved treadmill to ensure you're obtaining the ideal one for your needs. Before anything else, consider the exercises you'll perform on the treadmill. A curved treadmill with a high inclination % and several resistance settings is what you need if you want a high-intensity, calorie-burning workout. However, you might want a curved treadmill with a longer deck and more shock absorption if you're more interested in low-impact jogging.

You should consider the size and weight of the curved treadmill you're interested in and your exercise requirements. Verify that it will fit in the space you have set aside for exercise and that you can move it if necessary. Additionally, you should consider the machine's longevity, upkeep requirements, and any additional amenities like a tablet holder or digital display.

Finally, consider your spending plan and research to discover the greatest deal. Every fitness level and price range can find the ideal curved treadmill thanks to the many alternatives available.

Conclusion

Curved treadmills are a great way to take your fitness routine to the next level. They offer an effective, low-impact workout that can help you burn more calories and improve overall performance.

When shopping for a curved treadmill or a standing treadmill desk, consider what kind of workouts you'll be doing on it, the size and weight requirements of the machine, its durability and maintenance needs, and any extra features like digital displays or tablet holders.

With so many options available at different prices, there's bound to be one perfect for your budget and exercise goals! Use this guide when researching the best curved treadmill for you!