Skip to main content
TopMiniSite

Back to all posts

How to Adjust the Cushioning System on A Treadmill?

Published on
11 min read
How to Adjust the Cushioning System on A Treadmill? image

Best Treadmills with Adjustable Cushioning System to Buy in November 2025

1 350 lb Capacity Treadmills for Home with 15% Auto Incline, Folding Treadmill with Multi-Function Console and Heart-Rate Handrail, 3.5HP Real Brushless Small Treadmill with Dual Cushion System/Speaker

350 lb Capacity Treadmills for Home with 15% Auto Incline, Folding Treadmill with Multi-Function Console and Heart-Rate Handrail, 3.5HP Real Brushless Small Treadmill with Dual Cushion System/Speaker

  • SAFE, ADJUSTABLE HANDRAIL FOR ENHANCED CONFIDENCE IN WORKOUTS
  • 15% AUTO INCLINE: CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRAINING FOR MAXIMUM CALORIE BURN
  • COMPACT DESIGN: PERFECT FOR SMALL SPACES AND EASY TO STORE
BUY & SAVE
$359.99 $499.99
Save 28%
350 lb Capacity Treadmills for Home with 15% Auto Incline, Folding Treadmill with Multi-Function Console and Heart-Rate Handrail, 3.5HP Real Brushless Small Treadmill with Dual Cushion System/Speaker
2 Treadmills for Home, 3.0HP Quiet Brushless Folding Treadmill with Heart Rate Sensor, Dual Cushion System, 303lbs Weight Capacity, Holder for Cup & Phone

Treadmills for Home, 3.0HP Quiet Brushless Folding Treadmill with Heart Rate Sensor, Dual Cushion System, 303lbs Weight Capacity, Holder for Cup & Phone

  • 15% MANUAL INCLINE: BOOST CALORIE BURN WITH ADJUSTABLE INCLINE LEVELS.
  • SILICONE SHOCK SYSTEM: PROTECT JOINTS & ENJOY A QUIETER WORKOUT EXPERIENCE.
  • SMART HANDRAIL: MONITOR HEART RATE AND ADJUST SETTINGS FOR EFFICIENCY.
BUY & SAVE
$289.99 $329.99
Save 12%
Treadmills for Home, 3.0HP Quiet Brushless Folding Treadmill with Heart Rate Sensor, Dual Cushion System, 303lbs Weight Capacity, Holder for Cup & Phone
3 Big Running Deck Treadmills for Home with 15% Auto Incline, Folding 3.5HP Real Brushless Treadmill with Convenience Console and Heart-Rate Handrail, Small Treadmill with Dual Cushion System/Speaker

Big Running Deck Treadmills for Home with 15% Auto Incline, Folding 3.5HP Real Brushless Treadmill with Convenience Console and Heart-Rate Handrail, Small Treadmill with Dual Cushion System/Speaker

  • PRO SHOCK ABSORPTION: REDUCES JOINT STRESS FOR SAFE, LONG-TERM USE.
  • 15-LEVEL AUTO INCLINE: BOOSTS CALORIE BURN FOR VARIED WORKOUTS.
  • QUIET 3.5HP MOTOR: SUPPORTS UP TO 350 LBS, IDEAL FOR ALL USERS.
BUY & SAVE
$499.99 $699.99
Save 29%
Big Running Deck Treadmills for Home with 15% Auto Incline, Folding 3.5HP Real Brushless Treadmill with Convenience Console and Heart-Rate Handrail, Small Treadmill with Dual Cushion System/Speaker
4 Auto Incline Treadmill, 18" Wide Belt, 350lb Capacity, 3HP, 0.5-10 MPH, Cushioning System Treadmill for Home

Auto Incline Treadmill, 18" Wide Belt, 350lb Capacity, 3HP, 0.5-10 MPH, Cushioning System Treadmill for Home

  • KNEE PROTECTION: DUAL-LAYER SHOCK ABSORPTION KEEPS WORKOUTS SAFE.
  • DURABLE RUNNING SURFACE: 5-LAYERED BELT FOR PERFORMANCE & LONGEVITY.
  • SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: FOLDABLE TREADMILL FITS COMPACTLY IN ANY HOME.
BUY & SAVE
$389.99 $499.99
Save 22%
Auto Incline Treadmill, 18" Wide Belt, 350lb Capacity, 3HP, 0.5-10 MPH, Cushioning System Treadmill for Home
5 NordicTrack T Series 5 Starter Treadmill for Real Results

NordicTrack T Series 5 Starter Treadmill for Real Results

  • HANDS-FREE SPEED CONTROL: ENJOY AUTOMATED PACING FOR IMMERSIVE WORKOUTS!

  • COMPACT & PORTABLE DESIGN: EASYLIFT FOLDING SAVES SPACE; ROLL IT AWAY!

  • 10,000+ IFIT WORKOUTS: ACCESS GLOBAL TRAINING WITH AUTO-ADJUSTING FEATURES!

BUY & SAVE
$599.00
NordicTrack T Series 5 Starter Treadmill for Real Results
6 JELENS Treadmill for Home with 0-15% Auto Incline, Foldable Walking Pad Treadmill with 330LBS Weight Capacity and Pulse Sensors, 3.0HP Quiet Walking Pad with App and LCD Display (Black)

JELENS Treadmill for Home with 0-15% Auto Incline, Foldable Walking Pad Treadmill with 330LBS Weight Capacity and Pulse Sensors, 3.0HP Quiet Walking Pad with App and LCD Display (Black)

  • 15% AUTOMATIC INCLINE: SIMULATE REAL UPHILL RUNS WITH 15 LEVELS AT ONE CLICK.

  • QUIET 3.0HP MOTOR: ROBUST PERFORMANCE UNDER 40 DECIBELS FOR PEACEFUL WORKOUTS.

  • FOLDABLE & COMPACT DESIGN: SAVES SPACE, FOLDING TO JUST 3.99 SQ FT FOR EASY STORAGE.

BUY & SAVE
$299.99 $359.99
Save 17%
JELENS Treadmill for Home with 0-15% Auto Incline, Foldable Walking Pad Treadmill with 330LBS Weight Capacity and Pulse Sensors, 3.0HP Quiet Walking Pad with App and LCD Display (Black)
7 UMAY Fitness Treadmill with Incline, Foldable Compact Treadmills for Home with Pulse Sensors, Max 300/400 LBS Capacity, 3.0/3.5HP Quiet Brushless, Max 8.7 MPH (Balck with handrail)

UMAY Fitness Treadmill with Incline, Foldable Compact Treadmills for Home with Pulse Sensors, Max 300/400 LBS Capacity, 3.0/3.5HP Quiet Brushless, Max 8.7 MPH (Balck with handrail)

  • SAFETY FIRST DESIGN: DETACHABLE HANDRAILS & SAFETY STRAP FOR SECURE WORKOUTS.
  • EASY STORAGE: ONE-HAND HYDRAULIC FOLDING FOR CONVENIENCE AND SPACE-SAVING.
  • REAL-TIME MONITORING: PULSE SENSORS & BMI CALCULATOR ENSURE SAFE TRAINING.
BUY & SAVE
$359.00 $399.99
Save 10%
UMAY Fitness Treadmill with Incline, Foldable Compact Treadmills for Home with Pulse Sensors, Max 300/400 LBS Capacity, 3.0/3.5HP Quiet Brushless, Max 8.7 MPH (Balck with handrail)
8 12% Incline Treadmill with Handle, 3-in-1 Portable Treadmills for Home and Office, Foldable Treadmills with 300 Lbs Weight Capacity, 3.0HP Quiet Walking Pad Treadmill, Three Touch Screen

12% Incline Treadmill with Handle, 3-in-1 Portable Treadmills for Home and Office, Foldable Treadmills with 300 Lbs Weight Capacity, 3.0HP Quiet Walking Pad Treadmill, Three Touch Screen

  • BURN MORE CALORIES WITH A 12% MANUAL INCLINE FOR INTENSE WORKOUTS.

  • TRIPLE DISPLAY SHOWS REAL-TIME STATS; FOLDABLE FOR EASY STORAGE.

  • COMFORTABLE, NON-SLIP RUNNING BELT PROTECTS JOINTS FOR LONGER RUNS.

BUY & SAVE
$189.99 $249.99
Save 24%
12% Incline Treadmill with Handle, 3-in-1 Portable Treadmills for Home and Office, Foldable Treadmills with 300 Lbs Weight Capacity, 3.0HP Quiet Walking Pad Treadmill, Three Touch Screen
9 Walking Pad Treadmill with 12% 9-Level Auto Incline, 450 lbs Capacity RGB LED Screen, Bluetooth Speaker Under Desk Treadmill, Compact Treadmills for Home Hiking, Black

Walking Pad Treadmill with 12% 9-Level Auto Incline, 450 lbs Capacity RGB LED Screen, Bluetooth Speaker Under Desk Treadmill, Compact Treadmills for Home Hiking, Black

  • AUTO INCLINE BOOSTS CALORIE BURN: 3X MORE EFFICIENT WORKOUTS!
  • HEAVY DUTY CAPACITY: SUPPORTS UP TO 450 LBS FOR EVERY USER!
  • TRIPLE CUSHIONING REDUCES JOINT IMPACT FOR PAIN-FREE EXERCISE!
BUY & SAVE
$329.00 $449.00
Save 27%
Walking Pad Treadmill with 12% 9-Level Auto Incline, 450 lbs Capacity RGB LED Screen, Bluetooth Speaker Under Desk Treadmill, Compact Treadmills for Home Hiking, Black
+
ONE MORE?

To adjust the cushioning system on a treadmill, you will typically need to follow these steps:

  1. Locate the adjustment knobs: The cushioning system adjustment knobs are usually located at the base of the treadmill near the front or underneath the belt area.
  2. Assess the current cushioning level: Before making any adjustments, it's helpful to understand the current cushioning level of your treadmill. Walk or run on the machine for a few minutes to get a sense of the cushioning and how it feels on your joints.
  3. Begin the adjustment: Depending on the model, there may be separate knobs for adjusting the cushioning on each side of the deck or a single knob for both sides. Turn the knob(s) either clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the cushioning level.
  4. Test the treadmill: Make small adjustments to the cushioning system and then try walking or running on the treadmill again. This will help you determine if the changes made are suitable for your preferences.
  5. Repeat if necessary: If you're still not satisfied with the cushioning system, make further adjustments until you find the level of cushioning that suits you best. Keep in mind that excessive cushioning may affect the stability and feel of the treadmill, so find a balance that provides adequate support while still feeling comfortable.

Always consult your treadmill's user manual for specific instructions and guidelines on adjusting the cushioning system, as different models may have slightly different mechanisms.

What is the potential impact of incorrect cushioning system adjustment on treadmill maintenance?

The potential impact of incorrect cushioning system adjustment on treadmill maintenance can be significant. Here are some potential impacts:

  1. User discomfort: If the cushioning system is not properly adjusted, users may experience discomfort while using the treadmill. This can lead to dissatisfaction and reduced usage of the equipment.
  2. Increased risk of injuries: The cushioning system plays a crucial role in absorbing the impact and reducing stress on users' joints and muscles. If the system is not adjusted correctly, it can lead to an increased risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, or even more severe joint damage.
  3. Accelerated wear and tear: A poorly adjusted cushioning system can cause excessive stress on the treadmill's components like the belt, deck, and motor. This can lead to accelerated wear and tear, requiring more frequent and costly repairs.
  4. Decreased equipment longevity: Increased wear and tear due to improper cushioning adjustment can significantly shorten the lifespan of a treadmill. This means that the equipment may need to be replaced sooner, resulting in higher costs for the user or the facility.
  5. Higher maintenance and repair costs: Incorrect cushioning adjustment can lead to more frequent breakdowns and malfunctions. This increases the need for maintenance and repair services, resulting in higher costs for both individual users and commercial fitness facilities.
  6. Negative impact on reputation: If a treadmill consistently provides an uncomfortable or unsafe user experience due to incorrect cushioning adjustment, it can damage the reputation of the brand or facility providing the equipment. This can result in a loss of customers and revenue.

To avoid these potential impacts, it is essential to regularly check and adjust the cushioning system according to the manufacturer's guidelines and user feedback. Proper maintenance, including cushioning system adjustment, can ensure the longevity, safety, and user satisfaction of a treadmill.

How to properly align the cushioning system with the running deck on a treadmill?

Properly aligning the cushioning system with the running deck on a treadmill is essential to ensure a comfortable and efficient running experience. Here are the steps to align the cushioning system with the running deck:

  1. Consult the treadmill's user manual: Start by referring to the manufacturer's instructions or user manual for specific guidance on aligning the cushioning system. Different treadmill models may have slight variations in their alignment process.
  2. Locate the adjustment mechanism: Most treadmills have an adjustment mechanism typically found at the front or rear end of the deck. Look for adjustable bolts, knobs, or levers that control the deck's alignment.
  3. Level the deck: Use a leveling tool, such as a flat ruler or spirit level, to determine if the running deck is parallel to the floor. Place the leveling tool at the center of the deck, from front to back, and check for any discrepancies. If the deck is not level, adjustments are required.
  4. Adjust the cushioning system: Depending on the treadmill model, there may be specific methods to adjust the cushioning system. Some treadmills have adjustable bolts or knobs connected to the cushioning elements at the sides or underneath the deck. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to modify the cushioning system's tension or alignment accordingly.
  5. Test and fine-tune: After adjusting the cushioning system, test the treadmill by using it at a slow pace. Pay attention to any unusual vibrations, noise, or discomfort. If necessary, make further adjustments until the deck feels comfortable and aligned.
  6. Regular maintenance: To ensure consistent performance, periodically check the alignment of the cushioning system and running deck. Over time, natural wear and tear or intense usage may cause misalignment. Regular maintenance can help maintain a proper alignment and extend the lifespan of your treadmill.

Note: It's recommended to follow the specific instructions provided by the treadmill manufacturer as different treadmill models may have unique alignment procedures.

How to adjust the cushioning system on a treadmill correctly?

Adjusting the cushioning system on a treadmill correctly is important to ensure a comfortable and safe workout. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you adjust the cushioning system:

  1. Refer to the treadmill's user manual: Different treadmill models may have different methods for adjusting the cushioning system. It's important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions to understand the specific process for your treadmill.
  2. Locate the adjustment mechanism: Typically, the cushioning system adjustment can be found underneath the belt on the sides of the treadmill. Look for two or more knobs or bolts that can be turned to adjust the cushioning.
  3. Determine the current setting: Before making any adjustments, check the current cushioning setting. This can usually be done by pressing on the treadmill belt in the center and observing how much it compresses under your weight.
  4. Determine your desired cushioning level: Decide whether you prefer a firmer or softer surface. Keep in mind that a softer setting can reduce impact but may also feel unstable, while a firmer setting may feel more solid but provide less shock absorption.
  5. Adjust the cushioning system: Using the proper tools, turn the adjustment knobs or bolts to modify the cushioning system according to your desired level. Typically, turning the knobs/bolts clockwise will increase firmness, and counterclockwise will increase cushioning.
  6. Test the adjustment: Step onto the treadmill and walk or run at a comfortable pace to test the cushioning adjustment. Pay attention to how it feels under your feet and joints. If necessary, repeat the process to fine-tune the setting.
  7. Consult the user manual for added features: Some advanced treadmills offer additional features such as customizable cushioning profiles or pre-set settings. If your treadmill has these options, refer to the manual for instructions on how to utilize them.

Remember, it's important to listen to your body and adjust the cushioning system to a level that feels comfortable and supportive for your specific needs.

How to troubleshoot issues with the cushioning system on a treadmill?

If you are experiencing troubles with the cushioning system on your treadmill, here are some steps to troubleshoot the issue:

  1. Check the user manual: Refer to the user manual that came with your treadmill. It usually contains troubleshooting tips and a section specifically related to cushioning system problems. Follow the instructions given in the manual to address the issue.
  2. Inspect the cushioning system: Visually examine the cushioning system for any visible damage or signs of wear. Look for cracks, tears, or uneven wear on the cushioning pads or springs. If you notice any damage, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
  3. Lubrication: If the cushioning system relies on springs, they may need lubrication. Apply a silicone-based or other recommended lubricant to the springs following the instructions in the user manual. This can help improve the system's responsiveness and reduce noise.
  4. Tighten loose bolts: Check all the bolts and screws that secure the cushioning system to the treadmill frame. If any are loose, tighten them carefully using the appropriate tools. Loose bolts can cause the cushioning system to not perform properly.
  5. Calibrate the system: Some treadmills allow for calibration of the cushioning system. Follow the instructions in the user manual to calibrate the system correctly. This can help ensure it is operating at its optimal level.
  6. Contact manufacturer or service provider: If the troubleshooting steps above do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to contact the manufacturer's customer support or a professional service provider. They will have specialized knowledge and expertise to assist you further or arrange for repairs.

Remember, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and exercise caution while working on or troubleshooting any treadmill issues.

How to check if the cushioning system on a treadmill needs adjustment?

To check if the cushioning system on a treadmill needs adjustment, you can follow these steps:

  1. Start by inspecting the condition of the treadmill belt and deck. Ensure that they are in good shape and not excessively worn or damaged.
  2. Turn on the treadmill and begin walking or running on it at your normal pace. Pay attention to any discomfort or excessive impact felt in your joints or lower back.
  3. If you notice a harsh or jarring impact while using the treadmill, it could be an indication that the cushioning system needs adjustment. Excessive impact can put unnecessary stress on your joints and potentially lead to injuries.
  4. Check the owner's manual or manufacturer's website for your specific treadmill model for information on how to adjust the cushioning system. The process may vary depending on the make and model of your treadmill.
  5. Adjust the cushioning system according to the manufacturer's instructions. This typically involves adjusting the tension on the cushioning springs or changing the level of cushioning provided by the system.
  6. After making the adjustment, test the treadmill again by walking or running on it. Pay attention to any changes in impact or discomfort. If necessary, repeat the adjustment process until you find a comfortable cushioning level.

Regularly checking and adjusting the cushioning system on your treadmill can help maintain optimal comfort and reduce the risk of impact-related injuries while using the machine.

What is the difference between cushioning adjustment on a home treadmill and a commercial treadmill?

The main difference between cushioning adjustment on a home treadmill and a commercial treadmill lies in the level of customization and impact absorption.

  1. Customization: Home treadmills typically offer a range of cushioning adjustment options that allow users to choose the level of cushioning that suits their preferences. This can be achieved by modifying the firmness or softness of the running deck. Commercial treadmills, on the other hand, often have a fixed level of cushioning that is designed to cater to a wide range of users without customization.
  2. Impact Absorption: Home treadmills with cushioning adjustment provide varying levels of shock absorption to reduce the impact on joints, especially the knees and ankles. These treadmills often have multiple layers of cushioning technology to provide a comfortable and low-impact workout experience suitable for users with varying needs. Commercial treadmills, however, typically focus on durability and stability rather than customization. They often have a firm and solid running surface to withstand heavy usage in gyms or fitness centers without compromising on quality.

In summary, home treadmills with cushioning adjustment offer more customization options and are designed to provide a comfortable workout experience for individual users. Commercial treadmills, on the other hand, prioritize durability and are often limited in terms of customization but aim to cater to a more diverse range of users.