I’ll never forget my first treadmill.
It was sitting in the corner of a dusty garage, half-buried under old gym bags. The owner barely used it, but for me, it became the start of hundreds of miles of winter training. It wasn’t perfect, but it got the job done — and taught me a lesson I’ve shared with dozens of runners since:
A treadmill is only as good as the miles you put on it.
Whether you’re buying brand new or scoring a secondhand deal, the goal stays the same: find a machine that fits your needs without draining your wallet or your patience.
In this guide, I’ll break down what really matters when choosing between used and new treadmills — based on what I’ve seen work (and not work) for real runners over the past decade.
Let’s get to it.
Why a Used Treadmill Might Be Your Secret Weapon
Over the years, I’ve coached plenty of runners who started out with secondhand treadmills. Some ran their first marathon using machines older than their race bibs! Here’s why used can actually be a smart move if you play your cards right.
1. Your Wallet Will Thank You
I’ve seen runners snag $2,000 treadmills for $500. Same sturdy frame. Same powerful motor. Just a little dust—and a lot more cash left for new shoes, race entries, or even a racecation.
2. High-End Without the High Price
Buying used can get you into top-tier brands — the kinds built for daily pounding, not occasional strolls. Instead of settling for a flimsy new machine, you could be logging miles on a serious runner’s treadmill.
Real talk: I’d rather coach a runner on a 5-year-old commercial-grade treadmill than a brand-new budget model any day.
3. Less Pressure to Commit
If you’re just dipping your toes into treadmill training, a used machine doesn’t feel like such a big commitment. No guilt if you decide to switch back to outdoor runs when the weather warms up.
4. Someone Else Eats the Depreciation
Treadmills lose value fast—usually 30–50% within the first year or two. If you buy smart, you’re letting someone else take that hit while you get nearly the same performance.
But Beware: Buying Used Has Its Pitfalls
I’ve also seen the dark side of secondhand deals—machines that break down mid-run, mysterious squeaks that grow into full-blown malfunctions, and runners who wish they’d spent a little more upfront.
Here’s what you need to watch out for:
1. The Mystery Machine Problem
Unless the seller kept meticulous records (spoiler: most don’t), you’ll have no idea how hard that treadmill’s been pushed.
It’s like adopting a dog without knowing its past — some are gems, others come with baggage.
2. Wear and Tear You Can’t See
Motors lose their punch. Belts wear unevenly. Electronics glitch. You might not notice during a quick test jog, but two weeks into training? Different story.
Coaching Tip: Always crank up the speed and incline during a test. Listen for rattles, squeaks, or hesitation. Trust your gut.
3. No Warranty = All Risk
If something breaks — and it might — the repair bill’s on you. And sometimes, finding parts for older models is harder than finding a race with free donuts at the finish line.
4. Tech From the Stone Age
Some older treadmills feel downright ancient: clunky screens, zero connectivity, no workout variety. If tech keeps you motivated, an outdated machine could kill your momentum fast.
New vs Used: The Straight-Shooter’s Comparison
Here’s how I break it down with my athletes:
Used Treadmill vs New Treadmill
| Used Treadmill | New Treadmill |
|---|---|
| ✅ Save big money | ✅ Full warranty |
| ✅ Get commercial quality for less | ✅ Latest features and tech |
| ✅ Good for casual or experimental use | ✅ Long-term durability (usually) |
| ⚠️ Risk of hidden issues | ⚠️ Higher upfront cost |
| ⚠️ No warranty protection |
Neither is “better.” It’s about what fits your situation, goals, and risk tolerance.
Buying a Used Treadmill? Here’s How to Get It Right
Going the used route can be a smart move — but only if you treat it like you would picking a training partner for a marathon. You want reliable, not just convenient. I’ve seen runners rush a treadmill purchase and regret it within weeks. Let’s make sure that’s not you.
Here’s the step-by-step game plan I recommend to my coaching clients.
Step 1: Research Like a Detective
Before you even set foot in someone’s garage or scroll through online ads, know your target.
Price Check: Find out what the model cost new. A treadmill that sold for $2,500 three years ago is a very different machine from one that retailed for $699.
Review Hunt: Read real-world runner reviews, not just manufacturer descriptions. Look for common complaints: belt slipping, noisy motor, bad electronics — these are red flags.
Troubleshooting Patterns: Every treadmill line has its quirks. Some brands have belts that fray faster; others have motors that overheat. Knowing what to look out for will save you from a bad surprise.
Coaching Tip: Stick to brands that are known for durability. Over the years, I’ve seen NordicTrack, Sole, and LifeFitness treadmills hold up best under real-world mileage.
Step 2: Inspect It Like You Mean It
You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive, right? Same principle here. Your future training depends on this thing working smoothly.
When you go check it out:
Frame: Grab the side rails and rock them gently. A good treadmill feels sturdy, not wobbly like a cheap patio chair.
Motor: Start it up, crank the speed, then slow it down, and run a few minutes at 5–6 mph. A healthy motor sounds low and steady — not screechy, not hesitant.
Belt: Look closely. A belt should be centered, smooth, and show even wear. If it’s frayed, slipping, or feels jerky underfoot, that’s a major repair waiting to happen.
Console: Push every button. Test incline changes. Test speed jumps. A flickering screen or dead button could mean expensive electronic issues down the line.
Pro Tip: Bring a buddy if you can — preferably another runner. They’ll notice things you might miss, especially if you’re feeling excited (or pressured) during the deal.
Step 3: Ask the Tough Questions (Don’t Be Shy)
Good treadmills age gracefully if they’re cared for. Your job is to find out how this machine was treated.
Questions to ask the seller:
How often was it used? Daily marathon training is different from occasional walking while binge-watching Netflix.
What types of workouts? Sprints and heavy interval training wear treadmills harder than easy walking.
Was it maintained? Specifically: Was the belt lubricated regularly? (Neglect here shortens the machine’s life.)
Why are you selling it? Listen closely to their answer. Vague excuses (“We just don’t need it anymore”) are okay. Dodging the question is not.
Coach’s Warning:
If the seller gets defensive, rushes you, or refuses to let you really test it — trust your gut and walk away. A good seller will want you to feel confident.
Step 4: Know What a Fair Price Looks Like
Here’s a rough cheat sheet I’ve built over years of helping runners buy used treadmills:
Type | Typical Used Price Range
Basic Home Models (light use, walking-focused) $200–$500
Mid-Range Running Machines (inclines, better motors) $500–$1000
High-End Commercial Models (built for serious training) $1000–$1800
Real-World Example:
One runner I coached grabbed a 2-year-old Sole F80 (retail new ~$1600) for $750 — belt in great shape, motor still whisper-quiet. They’ve now logged over 1500 miles on it with zero issues.
That’s what a smart used purchase looks like: half the price, full performance.
Quick Recap: Your 5-Minute Pre-Purchase Checklist
Before you hand over a single dollar, make sure you can say YES to these:
✅ Solid frame with no wobbles
✅ Smooth motor sound at all speeds
✅ Belt centered and in good condition
✅ Console buttons and screen fully functional
✅ Clear, honest answers from the seller
Real Runner FAQ
Q: How long will a good treadmill last me?
👉 If you treat it right? 7–12 years easy. Beat it up? Maybe 3–5.
Q: Should I buy a treadmill from a gym sell-off?
👉 Sometimes! Commercial treadmills are tanks — just check age, service history, and mileage.
Q: Can I trust online-only treadmill purchases?
👉 Not really. Try to test in person. If not, buy from somewhere with a real return policy.
Q: What’s the #1 feature to care about?
👉 Motor power (at least 2.5–3.5 HP for runners). Forget the shiny touchscreen if the engine’s a lawnmower.
Final Verdict: New or Used, It’s the Miles That Matter
Look — I’ve seen runners PR off Craigslist treadmills. I’ve seen others burn out on fancy machines that became expensive coat racks.
At the end of the day, the machine is just the stage. You’re the main act.
If you buy smart, inspect carefully, and commit to showing up day after day, either option can lead to incredible results.
Remember:
🏃♂️ A used treadmill won’t limit you — excuses will.
🏃♀️ A new treadmill won’t guarantee success — consistency will.
Pick the machine that fits your budget, your goals, and your life — then lace up and get to work. Your best run starts with one step.