Last Updated on November 4, 2021 by Jeff
Treadmills are a gym staple, but many of us now have one at home. This means we are constantly on the lookout for outstanding features. The proform 505 CST treadmill review outlines up-to-date features to look for along with alternative models like the Bowflex treadclimber reviews.
Popular models like the proform performance 300i treadmill have had great customer satisfaction due to their smooth user interface, and others have had great treadmill ratings for home usage. You may be in the market for a new treadmill that is easily foldable and movable, and this treadmill review explores just that.
That’s for choosing a treadmill, but when it comes to moving it, there are other factors to consider, the main of which is to find your treadmill user manual and find out how to unassemble it or if it’s foldable & has wheels.
Want to learn more about treadmill size and dimensions? Then consider checking our blog – Treadmill Dimensions.
It’s also much safer to disassemble it rather than moving it in one whole piece! Don’t risk your health. You want to be able to use your treadmill after you’ve moved it! Continue reading to find out all you need to know to move your treadmill around.
Steps to Move a Treadmill
1. Fetch the User’s Manual 
If you’ve lost your manual, you’ll find the model’s name on the back of your treadmill, and you can search for it online. The manual will explain whether you can fold the treadmill in half, or if the treadmill has wheels, and how much it weighs.
2. Remove Safety Magnet Key 
Begin by removing the safety key; this is a small part but is very important as it holds everything in place. Remove the safety key, store it in a plastic bag, and tape it on the treadmill somewhere out of the way. Then, unplug the power cord, fold it, and wrap it with some moving tape too so that it’s not dangling.
Tip: At the end of the moving procedure, remember to lock the treadmill again with the safety key to avoid accidental unfolding.
3. Roll on Wheels 
If your treadmill has wheels, you can get someone to help you to roll it safely. You and a partner can stand on either end of the treadmill, with one person holding on to the hand bars and the other grabbing the underside of the conveyor belt.
The person on the belt end should be meticulous as they’ll need to gently tilt the treadmill backward till it’s balanced on its wheels.
4. Fold the Treadmill 
Many treadmills can be folded in half, with the top end folding downwards or the bottom conveyor belt section folding upwards. Look for a locking gasket for when it’s folded to avoid accidents. If your treadmill doesn’t fold, it’s best to take it apart then as instructed in the manual.
5. Disassemble the Parts 
Follow your user’s manual to see how pieces should be disassembled. You might need to use pliers to take the pieces apart.
As a general rule, most treadmills can be disassembled by separating the top pedestal from the main treadmill frame and proceeding with the following parts. Make sure to be extra cautious around the communications cable to avoid damaging it.
Wrap each part in some bubble wrap if you’re moving your treadmill to another home, or wrap them in blankets if you’re moving it to another room. Covering the corners, in particular, will help protect the walls in your home from damage.
6. Lift the Treadmill 
When all pieces are wrapped and ready, look for another person to help you with the lifting process. Have one person stand on either end of the machine and position the treadmill sideways with the person on the belt end leading the way.
When moving up or down a flight of stairs, one person should always maintain a tight grip on the treadmill while the other person should maneuver the machine to angle it around corners.
Begin with your feet shoulder-width apart, squat down, use hips and knees, and stay close to the treadmill. For extra stability, put one knee on the ground and the other knee bent at 90 degrees in front of you.
Lift the treadmill and maintain your posture by looking right ahead. You can maintain good posture by keeping your back straight, having your shoulders back, and protruding your chest out. This will contract the essential upper body muscles and assist with the lifting.
As you’re lifting, straighten out your legs and hips but not your back. Then, position the treadmill close to your body, remembering to keep your hands level; never extended.
No matter how difficult the strain is, always avoid using your back to bend over to set the treadmill down. Doing so can lead to damaging back injuries.
7. Time to Move It
Consider these factors before taking the step of moving your treadmill.
Furniture Dollies
If you’re moving your treadmill solo, you might want to consider moving aids, such as furniture dollies. Though you might not need one if your treadmill is on wheels, it still might be helpful if you struggle to move heavy things.
It’s also convenient having one if you’re moving your treadmill up a flight of stairs; you’ll save yourself a lot of back strain and potential accidents by renting one of these from a DIY store.
Secure the Treadmill
When moving your treadmill from A to B, avoid having extra layers on it, such as bubble wrap or big protective foam wraps. Once you’ve got it in the moving van, make sure you wrap it securely with bubble wrap or heavy-duty foam packaging aids to protect the treadmill.
To avoid the machine sliding around in the van, add some security straps to ensure it stays securely in place.
Moving Companies
If you are doing this solo and can’t manage it alone, consider hiring a moving company. This will help you avoid the risk associated with heavy lifting, particularly if you have some history with back and mobility problems.
The moving company will also be insured, so if there’s any damage done to your treadmill during the move, the insurance will cover any damages incurred. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about sourcing any moving aids, such as furniture dollies – the moving company will have it all at hand.
You also won’t risk damaging your walls with a moving company, as they’re more likely to be extra careful when moving your treadmill up and down flights of stairs and narrow passages.
Walk Before You Run!
Moving your treadmill to where you want it can be challenging, especially if you’re moving houses and have all your belongings needing shifting too. Don’t rush with moving heavy items like treadmills by yourself, as this can lead to you either injuring yourself or damaging your surroundings and the machine itself.
Carefully plan using your user’s manual and then invest in the moving preparations, such as furniture dollies. Follow the instructions as set out when dissembling, protecting, moving methods, and lifting practices, and put your best foot forward!