The best running machines are great for completing structured workouts, as they create a controlled environment. On an electric treadmill, you can control your pace, incline, interval and recovery time more accurately. But before you can improve your running cadence, you have to identify your current cadence. You can measure it by setting a timer for 20 seconds and counting the number of times your feet hit the ground. Multiply that number by three to get your steps per minute. Or film yourself and count your steps that way. Whether you love running on the treadmill or prefer hitting the open road, running on a treadmill has many benefits. It's an excellent alternative for runners when unfavorable weather or safety issues make it impossible to run outside. It allows you to multitask more safely. Furthermore, there are some advantages to running on the treadmill that you can't get running outdoors. Tech: If you’re simply after a solid treadmill for some recovery runs, tech probably isn’t at the forefront of your mind. But, with recent releases offering the likes of live classes and even access to TV streaming services via touchscreens, it’s worth taking a look at what each machine has to offer before making your mind up. Top speed: Sure, you're probably not running as fast as Dina Asher-Smith, but you don't want to find yourself frustrated because you're unable to run to your full potential. We've rounded up the top speeds for each treadmill below to help you make the right decision.

In fact, many experienced runners opt to do speed workouts like interval training and hill repeats on a treadmill as it’s much easier to control the workout this way.

This home treadmill can reach speeds of up to 10 mph, which is enough for a light run – though not enough for sprints. I’d suggest taller (6 foot+) users opt for a model with a higher top speed. Examples are the ProForm Carbon T7 and the popular iRun 3 from Reebok. It has a top speed of 18 km/h, which works out to be a 5:22min/mile pace, so should be fast enough for most. For speedsters, though, JTX also has the Sprint-9 Folding Gym Treadmill or Pro Professional, which are able to reach higher speeds. 4. Viavito LunaRun Fold Flat Treadmill This WalkingPad model may look like a standard under desk treadmill, but it has a feature that makes it unique and incredibly desirable: It can fold in half. One staff member tests the preprogrammed workouts on the Landice L8 during his lunch run. Trevor Raab How We Tested

This is essentially the slope of the treadmill. The higher the incline, the more intense the workout will be.FindThisBest aims to create a platform to help you make better shopping decisions with less time and energy. Earning our users' trust is central to what we do. Key specs – Size: 196 x 93 x 153cm (LWH); Folded size: 120 x 88 x 159cm (LWH); Speed range: 0-20km/h; Incline range: 0-15%; Motor: 3HP continuous, 6HP peak Naturally that larger belt means it’s a hefty unit even when folded, but it’s still less imposing than a treadmill you can’t fold up at all, which is what you would normally have to opt for if you want to get the impressive feature set offered by the Sprint-9. They also judged each running machine's ease of use by navigating its touchscreens and control panels to find a suitable workout. Each model was then given a score, with only the best earning our Runner’s World Expert Tested seal of approval.

A treadmill offers a controlled environment where you can dictate speed and incline without worrying about wind, snow or rain. There are pros to this, but there are also cons. Especially if you're training for an outdoor race, where you're bound to encounter changes in weather and terrain. Speed on most treadmills is measured in miles per hour or kilometers per hour. When you turn on the machine, start at a walking pace, work your way to a jog, and then arrive at your destination pace safely. Equipped with 2.5HP motor, this foldable treadmill provides powerful support for speed range from 1km/h to 12km/h, allowing you enjoy your daily fitness without disturbing others.You may even decide to do intervals of walking intermixed with light jogging before progressing into a continuous run. If you're not worried about folding the treadmill away, or moving it from room to room, this Life Fitness T5 treadmill is a good option. It's easy to assemble, you can set up two user profiles to make jumping on simpler if you are sharing with another runner with different training needs, and there's a handy energy-saving mode for when you're not using it. It has a top speed of 12mph, which is about a 4:59min/mile pace. 3. JTX Sprint-5 Electric Treadmill