One of the key specs for a treadmill is the motor power and type. Sometimes two models look the same and share the same frame, but the only difference is the motor power, in other words, motor HP or horsepower. The power of the treadmill motor will determine how well a treadmill performs, especially during long training sessions. Because of this we always try to emphasize the motor HP in our treadmill reviews.
Treadmills usually come with motors in the range of 2 to 4 HP. Treadmills with 2 HP motors are usually engineered for walkers and joggers, while 4 HP models are designed with serious runners and also heavier users in mind. Higher power models also support more user weight.
Of course, not every motor is built the same, two motors can have the same HP/CHP on paper but that does not mean they both perform the same, especially under heavy use. Usually, the cheaper models come with lower-quality motors with shorter warranty periods. Many well-known treadmill brands offer a lifetime warranty on the treadmill motor.
Also, the RPM of the motor is very important, unfortunately, the manufacturers usually do not disclose this information in their specifications. In general lower RPM motors are better, these motors have more torque and will last longer. Some treadmill manufacturers use gear ratios that are far from ideal to bloat the HP rating. They spin the motor at very high RPMs which will reduce the motor’s life. This is also a reason why cheap treadmills are very loud even at low speeds.
Treadmill Motors: DC vs. AC
Recently some manufacturers like SOLE start to use DC motors for their treadmill series. This type of motor uses direct current instead of alternating current (AC). DC motors are quieter than traditional AC motors. DC motors have the advantage of quick starting, and they are usually more energy efficient.
Treadmill Motors: HP vs CHP
When you try to choose a treadmill, it is better to look for one that has the motor’s power in CHP (Continuous Duty Rating), we always include this information in our reviews and comparisons. But what does CHP mean? This unit is a commercial-grade standard for treadmills you see at gyms, health clubs, and hotels. CHP measures the motor power delivered in HP during a workout, whereas HP usually indicates the peak motor power at some optimum speed for the motor which can be missleading.
How many HP motor is good for a treadmill?
We usually get questions like: “Is 2.5 HP good for a treadmill?” or “Is 3 CHP on a treadmill good?” As we stated above it is better to look for the CHP rating rather than the HP. Every use case requires a different motor power. Different types of exercises, also the user weight will determine the horsepower. As a rule of thumb, consider the following horsepower chart.
- Treadmills for walkers: 2.0 CHP
- Treadmills for joggers: Minimum 2.5 CHP
- Treadmills for runners: 3.0 CHP or higher
These are minimum recommendations; you can use higher-power treadmills to walk or jog. Also, if you weigh close to the capacity of the treadmill, increase the horsepower by 0.5 HP for a safety margin. The length of the training session is very important too, the longer your workout, the higher quality/CHP motor you will need.
