3 Best Treadmill for Bad Knees: Protect Your Joints Easy
- Shock Absorption
- Incline and Decline Options
- Running Surface
- Other Considerations
- NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
- Sole F85 Treadmill
- ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
Introduction
Treadmills are a popular choice for people who want to improve their fitness, but for those with bad knees, choosing the right treadmill is crucial. Running or walking on a treadmill that isn’t suitable for bad knees can lead to further pain and injury. That’s why it’s important to find a treadmill with features that help reduce impact and stress on the joints.
In this blog post, we will explore what to look for in the best treadmill for bad knees and highlight some of the best treadmills available in the market that can help protect your joints and provide a comfortable workout experience.

What to Look for in The Best Treadmill for Bad Knees
When searching for a treadmill suitable for bad knees, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider:
Shock Absorption
- Shock absorption is crucial for protecting your knees. Treadmills with good shock absorption systems help reduce the impact of your feet hitting the running surface.
- This feature is especially important for those with bad knees, as it can help prevent further damage. Look for treadmills with cushioned or padded running surfaces, or ones with shock absorption technology built into the design.
Incline and Decline Options
- Incline and decline options can help alleviate stress on the knees. When you walk or run on a flat surface, your knees absorb most of the impact. By using an incline, you can shift some of that impact to your glutes and hamstrings.
- This can reduce the strain on your knees. Similarly, using a decline can reduce the stress on your knees when walking or running downhill.
Running Surface
- The size and quality of the running surface can also make a difference. A larger running surface provides more room to move and can help reduce stress on the knees.
- Additionally, a surface with good traction can help prevent slipping or falling, which can cause further knee injury.
Other Considerations
- There are a few other factors to consider when choosing a treadmill for bad knees. The noise level is important, especially if you plan on using the treadmill in a shared living space.
- Look for treadmills that have a quiet motor or are specifically designed to be noiseless. Price is also a consideration, as some treadmills with advanced features can be quite expensive.
- Finally, consider any additional features that may be beneficial, such as heart rate monitors, pre-set workout programs, or built-in fans.
By considering these factors, you can find a treadmill that is comfortable, safe, and effective for those with bad knees.
Top Treadmills for Bad Knees
Now that we’ve looked at what to consider when choosing a treadmill for bad knees, let’s explore some of the top treadmills available in the market that meet these criteria.
1. NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts with bad knees. It offers excellent shock absorption, thanks to its Runners Flex cushioning system that can be adjusted to suit your preferences.
The incline and decline options can help reduce stress on the knees, and the 22-inch by 60-inch running surface is spacious and has good traction.

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 also includes a heart rate monitor, 50 pre-set workout programs, and a built-in fan. However, it is quite expensive, with a price tag of around $1,999.
2. Sole F85 Treadmill
The Sole F85 is another excellent option for those with bad knees. It features a Cushion Flex Whisper Deck that offers great shock absorption, reducing the impact on your joints.
The 22-inch by 60-inch running surface is spacious, and the incline options can help reduce stress on your knees. The Sole F85 is also relatively quiet, making it a good choice for those who live in shared spaces

It includes a heart rate monitor, 10 pre-set workout programs, and a built-in fan. The Sole F85 is a bit cheaper than the NordicTrack Commercial 1750, with a price tag of around $2,299.
3. ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
The ProForm Pro 2000 is a great option for those looking for a mid-range treadmill for bad knees. It has a ProShox cushioning system that provides excellent shock absorption, and the 22-inch by 60-inch running surface is spacious and has good traction
The ProForm Pro 2000 also includes a heart rate monitor, 50 pre-set workout programs, and a built-in fan. The incline and decline options can also help reduce stress on your knees.
The ProForm Pro 2000 is more affordable than the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 and the Sole F85, with a price tag of around $1,799.
All three of these treadmills offer excellent features for those with bad knees. It’s important to choose the one that best fits your budget and workout needs.

Conclusion
Finding the right & best treadmill for bad knees can be challenging, but it’s important for protecting your joints and preventing further injury. When choosing a treadmill, look for features like shock absorption, incline and decline options, and a spacious and high-traction running surface. Other considerations, such as noise level, price, and additional features, should also be taken into account.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750, Sole F85, and ProForm Pro 2000 are all excellent options for those with bad knees. Each of these treadmills offers features like shock absorption, incline options, and spacious running surfaces, along with additional features like heart rate monitors, pre-set workout programs, and built-in fans.
Investing in a high-quality treadmill that is designed for bad knees can help protect your joints and make your workouts more comfortable and effective. By considering these factors and choosing the right treadmill, you can continue to improve your fitness while keeping your knees healthy and pain-free.