Best Treadmill Apps | Our Top Ten

Last Update: October 3, 2024

Few things are worse than slogging through a treadmill workout without any distractions. What are you supposed to look at? I’ve spent far too many runs watching seconds tick by, willing them to pass quicker or counting up tenths of a mile. I’m tired of it, and I’ve compiled a list of the top ten best treadmill apps getting me through my workouts.

Not only are these apps fun, but they are also a huge help in making my workouts more effective. If you have no plan in mind when you get on your treadmill, most of these apps will save you the hassle of planning out your workout or using one of the boring onboard workouts treadmills come with. Check out which apps I settled on below.

Here’s Our List of the Best Treadmill Apps for 2024

• Best Treadmill App Overall: iFIT
• Best Free Treadmill App: Zwift
• Best Treadmill App Classes for Beginners: Sole+
• Best Treadmill App Classes: Peloton
• Best Treadmill App with Connected Equipment: Echelon
• Best Treadmill App with Variety: Kinomap
• Best Free Treadmill App Classes: Nike+ Run Club
• Best Treadmill App with Scenic Routes: Explore the World
• Best Treadmill App Game: ZRX (Zombies, Run!)
• Best Treadmill App For Creating Workouts: Kinni

Best Treadmill App Overall: iFIT

iFIT is a must-have for treadmills from NordicTrack, ProForm, and Freemotion. Many home treadmills from Matrix also support iFIT. Yet, you don’t have to have one of these treadmills to enjoy iFIT’s fun trainer-led content. If you want a guided tour of a trail on the other side of the world, this app is for you. It’s the ultimate upgrade to those simple POV trail tours.

I was first introduced to iFIT while using a NordicTrack treadmill, which supports the iFIT app right from the treadmill screen. However, you don’t need a compatible iFIT treadmill to use the app’s features. The classes are led by a professional iFIT coach, who will tell you about the route you are exploring and give you speed cues.

The iFIT treadmill classes automatically adjust the incline and speed to match the coach’s on a compatible treadmill, but you can manually follow along by matching your treadmill to the speed and incline indicated on the screen. Alternatively, you can follow the coach’s recommended rate of perceived exertion (RPE).

In addition to just hopping into a class, there are series to join and challenges to conquer. This way, you also have a plan for your next treadmill sessions. You can also see all of the progress you have made so far by

iFIT is a feast for the senses, which is exactly what I need to keep me engaged during my workout. The trainer talks to you throughout the workout, offering advice, educational information about the route, and anecdotes that make the classes more personal. Add in the visuals of the beautiful trails, and you’ll know why this is our top app recommendation.

Read Our Full Review Of The iFIT App Here

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Best Free Treadmill App: Zwift

Sorry, cyclists. Zwift is currently free for runners only. This app has occupied me on countless runs lately. It connects to tons of treadmills, so if your treadmill follows the FTMS protocol, it is probably compatible with Zwift (you can check compatibility on Zwift’s website). You can also use a running dynamics pod or fitness tracker instead of connecting to the treadmill directly.

Zwift isn’t as big in the running community as it should be. It is a super popular app for cyclists, and they have made it free for runners to attract more users. I am entranced by watching my little avatar run along the streets of Watopia (the virtual Zwift world), and I’m happy to have something else to look at besides the treadmill screen, but there are many other advantages.

You can choose a route and follow a structured workout. I like the archways that show up on the course to transition you from one interval to the next. Having a visual representation of where your interval ends is fun, and it gives me a similar feeling to running on a track. I also like passing other Zwift runners and cyclists while I train.

Virtual run group, anyone? Zwift allows you to schedule meet-ups with other users using the Zwift companion app. You can start clubs and manage other social interactions here. I love to meet up with my sister for a virtual run. We like running together in person, but now we live on opposite sides of the country, so we can’t. Zwift solved that problem!

Zwift has many features, and despite having used it for quite a while, I feel like I’m only scratching the surface. It can be a little intimidating for new users, but there are tons of posts on the forum to read if you want to learn how to make the most of Zwift. I hope I see you in Watopia sometime!

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Best Treadmill App Classes for Beginners: Sole+

The Sole+ app is free with Sole equipment. Without Sole equipment, it costs $10/month or $100/year. With either plan, you get a 30-day free trial to decide if you like the platform before committing. If you already own a Sole treadmill or other Sole equipment and haven’t tried it yet, be sure you do!

While I like the Sole+ app mainly for those who own Sole’s equipment, it also makes a great Peloton alternative for beginner walkers and runners. It’s less competitive than Peloton—you won’t see a leaderboard or feel pressured to rack up milestones. It’s more relaxed and maybe more approachable for users new to trainer-led studio fitness.

The Sole+ app has hundreds of classes that are perfect for beginners. Sole acquired many classes from the Studio app and other fitness platforms, so you might see different branding from class to class. Also, the Sole+ app is the same as the Xterra+ and Spirit+ apps. All three brands are treadmill brands owned by the same parent company.

This app does not automatically adjust your speed or incline, but the screen shows what range you should be in. The instructor will also talk you through every step of the class. The app will track your workouts, and you can even import all of your workouts from Garmin Connect to have them all in one place on the Sole+ app.

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Best Treadmill App Classes: Peloton

I will not let my Peloton app streak break—over my dead body. I even did stretching classes when I had COVID to keep my streak alive! Peloton is so much fun and certainly brings out my competitive nature. I love working toward goals and hitting milestones. I’ve definitely got a few favorite coaches I keep returning to.

Peloton is a staple for getting me through lonely runs when I need extra motivation. There are tons of on-demand classes from many different instructors and various playlist genres to choose from. If I am lucky enough to align my schedule with one of the live classes, I take those, too. They are super fun because you might just get a shoutout from the instructor.

Your instructor will provide plenty of instruction to keep you at the right intensity for your workout, and there are also onscreen cues. Peloton workouts are appropriate for walkers and runners of all abilities. The classes are rated for difficulty, and the instructor gives you modifications you can make if needed.

The Peloton app offers training series to help you prepare for races. You can also take classes outside, train on other equipment, and follow mat classes for yoga or strength. I’ve used Peloton’s pre-run warm-ups and post-run stretches to round out my treadmill routine. You can “stack” classes, essentially creating a playlist. I’m not skipping warm-ups anymore!

I’ve also loved the music in Peloton classes. You can connect your Spotify account to like any songs that you hear in a Peloton class to listen to later. Spotify will compile these into a playlist. If you don’t have your Spotify connected, you can like songs and view a list of the songs in the Peloton app.

Overall, the Peloton app is a great option with two membership tiers. You need the higher app subscription, Peloton App+, for unlimited treadmill classes. The Peloton App One subscription only includes three treadmill workouts per month.

Read our full review of the Peloton app here.

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Best Treadmill App with Connected Equipment: Echelon

The Echelon app can be used with or without Echelon equipment. I prefer the features available with the equipment, but the app-only subscription is much more affordable and can be used with any treadmill. However, Echelon will prompt you to connect with your machine, which you must ignore if you don’t have an Echelon treadmill.

The Echelon app has many of the same features as Peloton, but the price is lower. For $12/month, you get access to all of their classes. New classes are added all the time, live and on-demand, so you won’t run out of fresh new content. The classes are instructor-led with fun music playlists, so they’ve definitely taken a note from Peloton here.

When I first started working out with Peloton, the class atmosphere intimidated me. Echelon has a more relaxed vibe that still promises a good workout but feels more approachable.

Echelon has more features for treadmills with smart connectivity. They have Echelon Worlds, a Zwift competitor, and Fit OS, which tracks your workouts while you stream shows or play games. These features aren’t available for the phone and tablet app, but you could always start with the app to test the platform before investing in Echelon equipment.

Best Treadmill App with Variety: Kinomap

Kinomap is an app for exploring the world, completing structured workouts, and following coaches. The Kinomap app truly has a little bit of everything. Kinomap connects to many treadmills, so check their website to determine if your treadmill is compatible.

Kinomap pairs with treadmills that use FTMS, so it should work with a wide variety of treadmills. Depending on your treadmill’s capabilities, it can read your metrics and automatically adjust your machine’s speed and incline.

It is similar to iFIT in that it follows trails and running routes worldwide. Interestingly, you can even send in your own video content of running on trails to earn rewards on Kinomap. Your video must meet Kinomap’s standards, but it is a cool way to decrease the subscription cost of $12/month, $90/year, or $430 for life.

The Kinomap app also has structured workouts you can follow or coaching videos. This content provides a nice break from the scenic video options. Kinomap content may not be as refined as other apps due to its crowdsourcing, but I’ve enjoyed the workouts I’ve done. I might even be a contributor in the future—who knows?

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Best Free Treadmill App Classes: Nike+ Run Club

Nike+ Run Club is an audio-based running app that can be used on a treadmill or outside. I have a long history of using this app’s sister, the Nike Training Club app. I’ve loved the free platform and the quality of the audio and coaching.

I keep waiting for Nike to put their Run Club and Training Club apps behind the paywall. For years, I have been amazed by what you get for free. The app lives up to Nike’s reputation as a powerhouse in sports. The Run Club consists of audios and recommended Spotify playlists. It does not have a visual component like a video, but you can track your real-time metrics.

This app takes the guesswork out of your training. If you have an upcoming event, join one of their training plans. I like that you can follow these training plans even if you train on the treadmill sometimes and outdoors other times. You just have to toggle your settings between indoor and outdoor modes.

The Nike Run Club app has a social aspect, too. You can join challenges and add friends to climb your friend group leaderboard. Unlike Peloton, which pits you against anyone, you can curate a group you are more comfortable with if you aren’t as competitive.

Overall, I recommend this app to anyone who wants free instructor-led content. Just be mindful that it is audio-only content. I would love to see video content from Nike Run Club.

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Best Treadmill App with Scenic Routes: Explore the World

Explore the World is what it sounds like. You can tour the world following scenic routes as you train on your treadmill. The Explore the World app pairs with Bowflex and Schwinn equipment, but you can use it with any treadmill as a cool visualizer to keep you entertained.

The Explore the World app is one of the simplest apps on this list. It can be connected to a treadmill, but it won’t work with every machine. If you just want to watch high-quality scenic videos as you train, this app might be for you. There are tons of locations to choose from.

The app has a few free videos, but for the best experience, you should consider subscribing. The subscription costs $10/month or $60/year. At the time of writing this, six free routes are available from places like Zion and the Mojave desert.

You can view your workout metrics on the screen if you have equipment connected to the app. You can also view your workout history in the app. Finally, there is an option to sync your training with Strava.

Read our full review of the Explore the World app here.

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Best Treadmill App Game: ZRX (Zombies, Run!):

Few things will get your heart racing, like immersive audio. The ZRX app, formerly “Zombies, Run!,” has exciting audio narrations that amp you up for a run. Take the app outside or dial up the intensity on your treadmill. Instead of listening through your phone or treadmill speaker, I recommend listening through headphones for the best experience.

When I’m not reviewing treadmills and other exercise equipment, I’m a total sci-fi and fantasy nerd. I read it, played an RPG, and even took up historic long-sword fencing. With the ZRX app, my runs are transformed into fantastical adventures that are even better than listening to an audiobook because I feel like I’m right there in the story.

There are a few different types of stories to choose from. You can be chased by zombies or join Marvel hero missions. The ‘Venture’ category lets you walk or run while listening to original stories that are fantasy, sci-fi, and other genres. Some stories even build on each other, so you can listen to the next chapter on your next run or walk.

Additional features in the ZRX app include training programs with instructions on how to execute each run. You can log your runs to track your progress. The statistics tab will show you your longest run, the number of runs started, and the runs you completed.

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Best Treadmill App For Creating Workouts: Kinni

Kinni is an FTMS treadmill app that is completely free and pairs with most FTMS treadmills. It is a great option for walkers and runners who don’t want to spend money on a training app and who want to design their own workouts.

The Kinni app gives the walker or runner complete control over their workout design. While some treadmills already have the option to design a custom workout, many do not. Creating a workout when you really just want to get straight into your run can be challenging. The Kinni app lets you design your training plan well in advance.

The Kinni library contains tons of workouts. You can filter these existing workouts by pace, hills, track, recovery, and aerobic to find the right workout. You can start from scratch by creating your own with custom speed and incline settings. You can calibrate your treadmill app to the Kinni settings for the best experience.

I wanted an app like Kinni for a long time. It seems like the simplest FTMS option to upgrade my treadmill workouts. Luckily, I found Kinni and discovered a way to program all my treadmill runs to my specifications. This is a great app for runners who are following a training plan and don’t want to press a bunch of buttons during their workout.

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The Benefits of Treadmill Apps

Treadmills can be boring. Apps are one way to switch things up. If you don’t want to zone out of your workout with distractions like streaming apps. You could try one of the apps on this lists that immerse you more in the workout.

• Workout Tracking: Many of these apps track your treadmill workout by connecting with the treadmill itself, a heart rate monitor, or your fitness tracker. They may even track metrics for you with your phone’s sensor (though these features mainly work outside).
• Motivation: My top reason for using a treadmill app is to push myself harder. I’m naturally averse to increasing the incline on my treadmill. I would much rather run on a flat surface. However, these apps encouraged me to pick up the pace and increase the incline for a more challenging workout.
• Socialization: Apps like Zwift and Peloton connect you with the app’s community and with friends using the platform. Connecting with others is a great way to stay accountable and keep showing up.
• Training Plans: Many of these apps include series, challenges, and training plans that help you get ready for a race or reach a goal.
• Become a Better Runner: Taking trainer-led classes or listening to audio from coaches can help new and experienced runners learn more information about running. These tips can help you become a better runner and avoid injury.

Cost

The biggest obstacle to using one of these apps may be the cost. I recommend starting a free trial. Remember to set a reminder on your phone for when the trial ends if you don’t want to be charged. Free trials are a great way to decide whether subscribing long-term is worth it.

Bottom Line – Best Treadmill Apps

Upgrade your training with one of the apps we have included on this list. It makes training more fun, and most of the apps have free features if they are not already free. If you think a subscription version adds enough value, give it a try! We are addicted to using apps like iFIT, Peloton, and Zwift!

Treadmill apps might even encourage you to use your treadmill more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an app I can use with my treadmill?

Yes, there are tons of treadmill apps. Our favorite free apps for the treadmill include Kinni, Zwift, and Nike Run Club. Our favorite app subscriptions for the treadmill are iFIT, Peloton, and Kinomap.

What is the most accurate running app for a treadmill?

Any app that connects via FTMS/Bluetooth to your treadmill should get an accurate reading as long as your treadmill is correctly calibrated. For runners who want the most accuracy, you can pair the Zwift app with a running dynamics pod. A running dynamics pod attaches to your shoes and prevents you from relying upon the stated treadmill speed, which could be inaccurate.

Is there a treadmill with Netflix?

Yes, iFIT, Bowflex, Peloton, Matrix, and Sole treadmills with touchscreens have the Netflix app. You must have your own Netflix account to watch shows and movies on it.