After more than two decades in the fitness industry, one truth remains clear: an Irish winter can be the ultimate obstacle to maintaining a consistent training routine. We’ve all experienced those moments—staring out the window at sideways November rain, silently deciding that today’s run might just have to wait.

That’s why a proper treadmill is usually the first thing I recommend when someone’s serious about building a home gym here. It’s the ultimate “no-excuses” bit of kit. But here’s the thing: not all treadmills are built the same. If you’re going to drop your hard-earned cash, you want a machine that doesn’t sound like a jet taking off and won’t give up the ghost after six months of heavy use.

Here is my professional take on the best treadmills for Irish homes in 2026, based on what we’re seeing over at Gymgear.ie.

My Top Picks for 2026

1. The “Hidden” Cardio: Urban Fitness Walking Pad

Urban Fitness Walking Pad

If you’re tight on space or just want to keep moving while you work, this is the one. It’s not for sprinting, but it’s the best “lifestyle” bit of kit I’ve seen in years.

  • The Pro Take: It tops out at 8 km/h, which is a very brisk power walk. It’s smooth and surprisingly quiet—perfect if you’re trying to clock miles without the rest of the house knowing about it.
  • Space Factor: This is the “king of the apartment.” It’s foldable and slim enough to slide under a sofa or bed. If you live in a townhome or a flat where space is at a premium, this is your winner.
  • Ideal for: Beginners, WFH (Work From Home) warriors, and anyone who wants to burn calories while watching Netflix.

2. The Tech-Savvy All-Rounder: Bodytone DT12 Plus

Bodytone really knows their stuff when it comes to “engineering for the home.” The DT12 Plus feels more expensive than it is, mostly because of how it treats your body.

  • The Pro Take: It uses REACT® technology, which is a fancy way of saying it has a platform that actually cushions your impact. After 20 years of running, your knees will tell you that cushioning is the most important feature on the machine.
  • Connectivity: It’s fully compatible with Zwift, Kinomap, and Bkool. If you find running boring, jumping into a virtual world where you can “race” others is a total game-changer for motivation.
  • The Build: 1.5 HP motor and a “Plug & Train” setup. It’s built for those who want to get moving without needing a degree in mechanical engineering to put it together.

3. The All-Rounder Gold Standard: NordicTrack 1750 (New Model)

NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill 2025 Model

If you asked me for one recommendation that fits 90% of people, this is it. It’s got a 4.25 CHP motor, which is absolute overkill in the best way—it means the motor isn’t even breaking a sweat when you’re doing a fast 5k.

  • Why I love it: The Runners Flex™ cushioning is a lifter’s best friend. It saves your knees from that “pavement slap” feel.
  • The “Irish Home” Factor: It features the SpaceSaver® design with EasyLift Assist. Basically, it folds up so you’re not losing your entire spare room to a permanent slab of iron.

4. The “Hill-Killer”: Cardio Pro HIIT Incline Treadmill

Cardio Pro Incline Treadmill

If you want to torch calories in half the time, you need incline. This beast is designed for high-intensity work.

  • The Pro Take: It hits a staggering 40% incline and a -3% decline. Walking at a 40% incline burns about five times the calories of a flat walk. It’s brutal, effective, and brilliant for building leg power and glutes.
  • The Stats: It’s got a 2.5 CHP motor and goes up to 16 km/h. While that’s not “Olympic sprinter” speed, the incline range means you’ll never outgrow this machine.
  • Smart Features: It’s got Bluetooth for apps and a matrix display that gives you all your data clearly. It’s a data-driven machine for people who want results.

5. For the Tech-Heads: NordicTrack 2450(New Model)

NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill 2025 Model

If you’re the type who needs a distraction to get through a long run, this is your machine. It’s got a massive 24-inch HD touchscreen. It’s basically like running in front of a cinematic TV.

  • The Pro View: A powerful 4.5 CHP motor enables a top speed(22 km/h) and bigger screen make those iFIT global workouts feel incredibly immersive.

6. The “Mountain Goat” Choice: NordicTrack X24i Incline Trainer

NordicTrack X24i Incline Treadmill

This isn’t just a treadmill; it’s a specialized training tool. Like the Cardio Pro HIIT, it goes up to a 40% incline.

  • Who it’s for: Hikers and trail runners. It also has a -6% decline, which is rare and fantastic for strengthening the quads for downhill treks.

 2026 Treadmill Spec Comparison Table

ModelMax SpeedTop FeatureMy Verdict
Urban Walking Pad8 km/hUltra-compact & FoldableBest for “steps” & small spaces.
Bodytone DT1212 km/hREACT® Cushioning & ZwiftBest for joint health & virtual runs.
Cardio Pro HIIT16 km/h40% Incline / -3% DeclineBest for fat loss & serious athletes.
ProForm Pro 900020 km/h3.6 CHP & 16″ ScreenGreat mid-range runner for families.
NordicTrack 175020 km/h4.25 CHP & 16″ TouchscreenThe Gold Standard for serious runners.
NordicTrack X24i20 km/h40% Incline & 24″ ScreenThe ultimate mountain-training luxury.

Pro Tips: What Actually Matters When Buying?

After two decades of seeing machines come and go, here is what I tell my clients to look for:

  • Don’t Skimp on the Motor: Look for CHP (Continuous Horsepower), not just “Peak” HP. If you’re a runner, you want 3.0 CHP or higher. Anything less might struggle with long-distance sessions.
  • Measure Twice, Buy Once: I’ve seen people buy a treadmill only to realize they can’t actually open their wardrobe door once it’s set up. Check the folded dimensions!
  • The Deck Size Matters: If you’re over six feet tall, you need a deck that’s at least 150 cm long. There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re going to fall off the back every time you take a long stride.
  • Cushioning is Non-Negotiable: If you’re over 30, your joints will thank you for investing in a machine with decent shock absorption like REACT® or Runners Flex™.

Ready to find the right fit for your gaff?

Every home is different, and every fitness goal is personal. If you’re still on the fence about which motor size you need or if a certain model will fit in your garage, give us a shout. Browse our treadmills here at https://gymgear.ie/product-category/cardio/top-brand-treadmills/

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