Curved Treadmill Benefits
A treadmill is an important tool in any gym as you can’t always rely on the Great British Weather for outdoor running, but how do you decide which one is best for you? In our guide, we’ll explain the fitness benefits of using a curved treadmill and how they compare to other types of treadmill.
What is a curved treadmill?
A curved treadmill is a type of non motorised treadmill featuring a curved running surface. As curved treadmills are not motorised, they are completely powered by the runner, meaning the speed is completely determined by the pace and position of the user.
Curved treadmill advantages
Curved treadmills are a popular choice for commercial and home gyms for HIT training and cardiovascular workouts. There are numerous fitness benefits of training on a curved treadmill.
High-calorie burn
As the user is responsible for getting the belt moving on a curved treadmill, it requires more power than motorised alternatives. Curved treadmills are a wise choice for users with fat loss goals, as they need to exert more energy while exercising. Runners who use the curved treadmill for high-intensity training are also more likely to benefit from calorie burn even after training due to Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC).
Encourages good running form
A curved treadmill protects runners from overstriking due to the shape of the running track, reducing the risk of injuries related to poor form. Making it a good choice for novice or improver runners. Another benefit of the curved shape of the running track includes a lower impact on the user’s joints and ligaments with added support on the knees and hips.
Enhanced muscle engagement
As the user powers the curved treadmill using their own force, it helps to work different muscle groups such as the posterior chain, (glutes, hamstrings and calves) helping to boost endurance and develop the legs and core.
Improved cardiovascular performance
One of the key benefits of using a curved treadmill is its impact on cardiovascular performance, as the curved treadmill is not motorised, it responds immediately to changes in pace, switching from sprinting to jogging easily. Boosting aerobic and anaerobic fitness levels.
Improved balance
Running on a curved treadmill requires more balance than running on its flat alternative. With regular use, it can enhance both core strength and balance.
Curved Treadmill vs Flat Treadmill
Feature and Benefit
Flat Treadmill
Curved Treadmill
Power
Usually motorised
Self-powered
Calorific burn
Burns fewer calories than a curved treadmill
Burns more calories than a flat treadmill
Running form
Can encourage poor form such as over striking
Improved form and natural foot position
Muscle engagement
Passive muscle engagement due to motorised functionality
Stronger activation of legs, glutes and core muscles
Best used applications
Better for steady-state cardio, rehab, and low-intensity work
Excellent for HIIT, sprint training, and high-intensity workouts
Maintenance
Requires electricity and motor maintenance. Treadmill Deck needs replacing frequently (costing £700+)
Doesn’t require electricity to use, and as it doesn’t have a motor, maintenance is minimal. Treadmill Deck doesn’t need replacing
Assault Runner Pro
