How to fold a treadmill and move it safely

The common folding designs

Before you fold

1. 1

   Stop the belt and wait until it has stopped completely.

2. 2

   Lower any incline to 0%. Many manuals say folding with the deck raised can damage the lift.

3. 3

   Remove the safety key and switch off.

4. 4

   Unplug the power lead and move it clear of the hinge.

5. 5

   Remove any bottles, phones or tablets from the console.

Note:Keep fingers out of hinges and away from the gas strut while folding. Keep children and pets well away, and never let anyone climb on a folded treadmill.

Folding a fold-up treadmill

A folded deck is top-heavy. Store it against a wall, on a level floor, where it cannot be pulled over.

1. 1

   Stand at the back of the deck with your knees bent and back straight.

2. 2

   Lift the rear of the deck with both hands, as the manual shows.

3. 3

   Raise it until the gas strut takes the weight or the locking pin clicks into place.

4. 4

   Check the lock by gently testing it before letting go.

5. 5

   To unfold, hold the deck, release the lock as the manual describes and lower it slowly. Many gas struts lower the deck gently once released.

Folding a fold-flat treadmill or walking pad

On fold-flat models, you usually loosen knobs or release latches at the base of the uprights, then fold the console and rails down onto the deck. Lower them rather than letting them drop. Fold-in-half pads have a latch at the hinge; release it and fold the two halves together slowly, keeping fingers clear.

Flat walking pads often have a handle at one end and wheels at the other. Some have a fold-down handlebar that drops flat before you store the pad. Read how to use a walking pad for the full routine.

Moving it and storing it

Walking pads can usually slide flat under a sofa or bed if there is enough clearance; check the height in cm on the listing. Some can be stood on their side or end, but others should only be stored flat, so check the manual. A pad stored on end should be secured so it cannot topple.

Space tight? Compare folded sizes in the best folding treadmills and the best walking pads, and see how big and heavy is a treadmill.

1. 1

   Tilt the folded treadmill or pad towards its transport wheels, as the manual shows.

2. 2

   Roll it slowly on a hard floor; carpet and door thresholds need extra care.

3. 3

   Use two people on stairs, and do not roll it down steps on its wheels.

4. 4

   Store it on a level floor, away from radiators and damp.

Compare folding treadmills →

Lightweight treadmills that fold up

If you want something one person can handle, look at the machine weight in kg, not just the folded size. Flat walking pads are often around 16 to 20 kg. Compact folding treadmills with handles and incline are often 23 to 26 kg. Heavier frames are steadier but harder to move. Our folding vs non-folding treadmills article explains the trade-offs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I store a walking pad on its side? Some makers allow it and some do not. Check the manual, and secure it so it cannot fall.

Do I need to lower the incline before folding? On most models, yes. Folding with the deck raised can damage the incline mechanism.

My treadmill will not stay folded. What should I check? Check the locking pin or latch is fully engaged. If a gas strut no longer holds the deck, contact the maker for a replacement.

Can one person fold a treadmill? Many are designed for one person, but heavier machines are easier with two, especially when moving them.