Worried a treadmill will annoy the neighbours? Most of the noise is easy to manage once you know where it comes from.
Where the noise comes from
- The motor. A brushless motor runs more smoothly and quietly than an older brushed one.
- Your feet. Footfall is usually the loudest part, and in a flat it travels through the floor more than through the air.
- The belt and deck. A cushioned deck soaks up some of each step.
Walking is much quieter than running
Every step of a run lands harder than a step of a walk. If noise matters, walking or brisk walking is the easy win. Adding incline makes a walk harder without making it louder, because you don't need to go faster.
6 ways to keep the noise down
- Use a treadmill mat. A thick rubber mat under the machine cuts vibration through the floor and protects it too.
- Pick the right spot. Keep it off a shared wall and away from the middle of a bouncy floor. Ground floors and solid floors are best.
- Check it's level. A machine that rocks on an uneven floor knocks and rattles.
- Walk softly and wear proper trainers. Cushioned shoes make a real difference.
- Choose your times. Early mornings and late evenings are when neighbours notice most.
- Look after the belt. Keep it centred and tensioned, and follow the manual on lubrication. A dry or loose belt gets noisier over time.
The quietest KTQ machines
| Model | Noise | Motor | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Series | Under 40 dB | 3.5HP brushless | Small flats; folds flat to 11 cm |
| 4 Series | Under 40 dB | 5HP brushless | Running and 15% Auto Incline |
| 3 Series walking pad | Under 45 dB | 4HP brushless | Walking with 8 Level Auto Incline; folds to 11 cm |
| 2 Series | Under 45 dB | 4HP brushless | Folding upright against a wall |
The 2, 3 and 4 Series also sit on a double-layer shock-absorbing base, which helps soften each step.
The bottom line
For a flat, choose a machine with a brushless motor, use a mat, and walk at the times your neighbours are least likely to notice. Not sure which model suits your space? Compare every KTQ model, or try one at home with our 60-day free home trial.
