If you’ve been to a modern gym or scrolled through the latest fitness trends, you’ve probably seen the sleek, non-motorised curved treadmill. Unlike traditional flat, motorised treadmills, these innovative machines are powered entirely by you. The belt moves as you run, thanks to your own momentum, which means the faster you go, the quicker the belt spins. The curved shape encourages a more natural running stride by engaging your hamstrings and glutes, just like running outdoors.
The design also eliminates the need for electricity - making it an eco-friendly addition to any home gym or fitness studio. But beyond sustainability, there’s a growing buzz about their fitness benefits. So, are curved treadmills actually better than their motorised counterparts? Let’s find out.
Are Curved Treadmills Better Than Motorised Ones?
In short, yes — for many runners, they are. Traditional treadmills rely on motors to keep the belt moving at a set pace, meaning you have to keep up. With a curved treadmill, it’s the opposite: you control the speed. This not only mimics outdoor running more closely but also provides a tougher, more engaging workout.
Because you’re generating your own momentum, you naturally activate more muscles, particularly in your legs and core. The curved surface also promotes better posture and encourages a midfoot strike — something many running coaches recommend for reducing impact injuries. According to FitKit UK, curved treadmills are also quieter, more energy-efficient, and require less maintenance than motorised models.
So, while a motorised treadmill might be better suited for steady-state cardio or interval workouts with set speeds, a curved treadmill offers a more dynamic, strength-building experience.
How Do Curved Treadmills Burn More Calories?
One of the biggest claims — and perks — of curved treadmills is that they help you burn more calories. Studies suggest you can burn up to 30% more calories on a curved treadmill compared to a motorised one at the same speed. Why? Because you’re doing all the work yourself.
Without a motor pushing the belt, every stride requires more power. Your posterior chain (the muscles along your back, glutes, and legs) works overtime to move the belt forward. This increased engagement means your body expends more energy — and your heart rate spikes faster.
As noted in Men’s Health UK, curved treadmills are especially good for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions, sprints, and endurance drills. Runners report feeling more fatigued after shorter sessions, which translates to better efficiency in less time. If your goal is to torch calories and build stamina, the curved treadmill might be your new best friend.
Is Running on a Curved Treadmill Harder Than Running Outside?
Yes, slightly — but in a good way. Many users, including those on Reddit’s running community, note that curved treadmills feel tougher, especially for beginners. That’s because there’s no mechanical assistance; every movement is self-generated.
However, the experience is surprisingly close to running outdoors. The curved surface allows for natural biomechanics, while the cushioned belt reduces harsh impact compared to concrete or tarmac. You’re in full control of your pace — if you want to sprint, just move forward; if you want to slow down, ease back. There’s no need to fumble with speed buttons or wait for the belt to catch up.
That said, the slight increase in effort means it might take a few sessions to adjust. But once you do, you’ll find that your outdoor runs feel smoother and easier — a testament to how effective this training style can be.
Are Curved Treadmills Better for Your Knees?
Joint health is one of the biggest concerns for runners, and here’s some good news: curved treadmills are generally easier on your knees. The design encourages a midfoot or forefoot strike instead of the heel-heavy stride that’s common on flat treadmills. This reduces the shock transmitted up through the knees and hips.
The running surface itself is also slightly softer than road running, providing better shock absorption. This combination helps reduce repetitive strain and can even improve running mechanics over time. Many users find that curved treadmills allow them to train longer with less discomfort — a big win if you’re prone to knee pain or recovering from an injury.
Should You Switch to a Curved Treadmill?
If you’re looking for a more engaging, natural, and calorie-burning workout, the curved treadmill is a fantastic choice. It’s tougher than a motorised treadmill but rewards you with better muscle activation, improved form, and less joint impact.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to add variety to your fitness routine, this piece of kit can help you level up your training — all while saving energy and space.
Experience the difference with our Curved Treadmill in Light Oak – a premium, energy-efficient fitness essential designed to transform your workouts. Find out more here!