Not everyone has a separate gym, yet you still want to exercise daily. A small treadmill offers a practical solution: you can exercise indoors without the machine taking up permanent space. This article explains how to determine whether a small treadmill will fit in your home, where to place it, and what you can realistically expect from such a compact model.
What exactly is a small treadmill?
A small treadmill differs from a traditional piece of exercise equipment because of its size. While a standard treadmill is often permanently installed and requires a lot of floor space, a small treadmill is designed to be stored when not in use. When folded, such a model is often no more than 13 to 17 centimetres high, allowing it to fit under a bed, sofa, or cabinet.
This compact size does not necessarily mean you have to compromise on walking surface. Many small treadmills still have a walking surface of around 100 by 40 centimetres, which is enough for comfortable walking. The main differences are in the design: less weight, a lower profile, and often the option to fold down or remove the handrail.
For people living in a small house, apartment, or studio, this type of treadmill is a logical choice. You do not need to clear a separate space, and the machine will not stand out like a large piece of exercise equipment in the middle of your living room.
Measure your space before choosing a small treadmill
Before purchasing a small treadmill, it is worth actually measuring your space. This will help prevent disappointment later.
Height and storage space
First, consider where you want to store the treadmill. Measure the height under your sofa, bed, or cabinet. Most small treadmills are between 13 and 17 centimetres high when folded, but not every sofa or bed has enough space underneath. Some users only discover after purchase that their sofa is too low to slide the treadmill underneath. A few minutes of measuring can prevent this problem.
If storing it under furniture is not an option, see whether it can be stored upright. Lightweight, compact models can often stand upright in a cabinet, behind a door, or in a corner of the room. This is especially useful in a studio or small apartment where furniture with enough clearance is limited.
Walking surface during use
In addition to storage space, you also need enough room around the treadmill while walking. Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 metres of clear space in length and at least 1 metre in width, so you can safely get on and off. Also consider the ceiling height if you are considering a model with a handrail, although this is usually not a problem with most compact models.
Also consider the floor surface. On a hard floor, such as laminate or tiles, a treadmill can transmit more vibrations to the floor below. A protective mat under the treadmill absorbs these vibrations and prevents scratches or damage to your floor, which is especially important in a rented home or apartment with neighbours living below you.
Choosing the right place in a small house, apartment, or studio
Where you place the treadmill will largely determine how often you actually use it. A few practical considerations can help you make this decision.
Under or beside your desk. For those who work from home, this is a popular option. You can walk at a steady pace during video calls, phone calls, or routine work without having to set aside a separate time. Do pay attention to the height of your desk, however: a sit-stand desk is generally better than a fixed desk, as it makes it easier to slide the treadmill under the desk when you are not walking.
In the living room, temporarily. Some users choose to bring out the treadmill in the evening while watching a series and then store it away again. This works well if storing it is quick and easy, for example under the sofa.
In the bedroom. In a studio where the bedroom is the only separate room, the treadmill may be well placed here, especially if it fits under the bed. Keep in mind that a treadmill with a handrail may have less manoeuvring space here than in a living room.
