A home treadmill can be an amazing way to start your fitness goals. If you want to stay healthy or lose weight, then this might be the solution you are looking for. However, some people are having a hard time finding out the right space where their treadmill will fit and work out properly.
If you are a tall runner, you need to have a space of at least 213 cm x 366 cm with a minimum of 244 cm of ceiling clearance including an extra space around the treadmill for safety and proper ventilation of your equipment.
But if you are still unsure about the measurements, here’s an overview of the proper and safe way to place your treadmill at home.
Guide on the Height Clearance and Space Around Treadmill
The main reason for the additional space required for your treadmill is, of course, safety. You put yourself and your property at risk when you cram an oversize treadmill into a small space.
Consider how irritating and unsafe it would be to repeatedly bang your elbows against the wall, or to hit your head on a low ceiling while working out. Isn’t it annoying and risky? But if you have adequate space to accommodate your treadmill, you will avoid experiencing these situations.
Ceiling or Height Clearance
The minimum clearance required for a treadmill is about 245 cm. The vertical gap between the floor and the ceiling is referred to as clearance. Most of the time, many treadmills may be used with a ceiling height of 245 cm.
But while 245 cm or 274 cm is ideal, you should be more careful when measuring and calculating with a ceiling lower than these measurements. Once you have identified the ideal place for your treadmill, try to multiply your height by 0.1524 metres and the result is equal to or less than the ceiling height. You don’t have to come up with the exact 14-inch measurement.
Proper clearance prevents head injuries, increasing overall safety when in use. If you are tall or enjoy running on inclines, be sure you have enough clearance. Additionally, if you’ll be using the treadmill alongside someone taller than you, calculate the clearance using his or her height rather than yours.
Space Needed for your Treadmill
Space is also important when setting up your treadmill. Allow 0.61 metres on each side of your treadmill to allow for safe entry and exit on both sides. It will also provide you with enough room to roll off if necessary.
You may also need about 0.1524 metres behind the unit for extra space. You want to be able to fall and roll off the back of the unit onto the floor if the belt continues to run.
You could get into trouble if the back of the unit is too close to a wall because you will get slammed into the wall first. The spinning belt may give you third-degree burns by rubbing your skin off at an alarming rate and you will have no space to pick up yourself from the fall immediately.
Give the front of your unit about 0.61 metres of space to provide ventilation for the motor. No extra space may overheat and cause the machine to malfunction if there’s no adequate airflow. Do remember that this type of malfunction may not be covered under your manufacturer’s warranty, so take this into high consideration.
Average Treadmill Dimensions
The average treadmill sizes are about 1.63 metres long and 0.71 metres wide. While the average weight is about 150kg.
Take note that these are just average measurements, hence some brands may be larger while others can be smaller. Treadmill sizes vary depending on the brand.
On the other hand, the weight of your treadmill may also depend on different aspects such as sizes, frame, material, design, and type. You can opt for different types such as manual, folding, or motorised treadmill.
Folding treadmills are great solutions for those that have limited space and are portable as well. You can learn about the different types of treadmills here.
Safety Tips when Using a Treadmill
1. Even if you are a short person, be sure to add several metres to your measurements for clearance. This is because you will be running, and bouncing up and down, so it is dangerous to have low ceilings.
2. Make sure to shut down your treadmill when not in use. Your child or pet may come upon the treadmill and could cause accidents or injuries. Do not place your treadmill near plants, garbage, cords, and other household items to avoid them getting caught while you are working out.
3. When you first turn on the treadmill, never stand on it. Treadmills are made to start slowly and increase the pace gradually. However, if the treadmill starts at a quick burst of speed than a steady pace, you might knock off your feet. So, make sure that you straddle the treadmill rather than standing straight on it when you first turn it on. Wear running shoes to avoid cuts, burns, and blisters.
4. Be sure to face forward when using your treadmill. You could trip over or step off over your feet if you are continually distracted and glancing around your place.
5. Ensure that your speed and intensity are not excessive. If you find yourself clinging to the rails for dear life, this is an indication that you need to take it a little easier. If you’re a beginner, make sure you understand what each button on your machine does before you start.
6. And if you are a beginner, starting slow is one of the most important things that you need to keep in mind. If you begin too quickly, you may not only inflict hurt or damage, but you may also lose motivation. Most individuals will not want to continue if it feels too difficult. Hence, before you begin running, warm up. This will prepare your body for the workout and enable you to perform at your best.
Conclusion:
Make sure that you have enough space all around your treadmill to get the most while working out. While using your treadmill, a proper setup will protect you from injuries and getting stuck on the belt. Not only that, you will be able to work out properly without the fear of injuring yourself and others around you.
Knowing how much space you need will help you buy the right equipment and place it where you can do your workouts comfortably and safely for years to come. Hopefully, you will find the information I have provided to be beneficial. Have a great workout!
Related Questions
1. Should a treadmill face the wall?
It’s not a good idea to put a treadmill up against a wall because if you fall and the treadmill belt keeps on turning, you’ll get jammed between the wall and your treadmill. Be sure to keep a few centimetres on either side of the treadmill and at least 183 cm behind it to ensure safety and convenience while working out.
2. How do you fit a treadmill in a small space?
There are many ways that you can do to accommodate your treadmill even when space is limited. You can check out my article on some of my suggestions so you can begin utilising your treadmill properly and safely.