Top 3 Treadmills for Soccer Players: Best HIIT and Interval Training for Home Use
For soccer players, endurance and stamina are everything—whether you’re sprinting down the field, outpacing an opponent, recovering for the next play, or pushing through the final minutes of a match. To excel in soccer or any high-intensity endurance sport, having the right treadmill can take your performance to the next level. You need a treadmill that can handle explosive speed and endurance-building workouts. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is key to improving stamina and delivering quick bursts of energy, and choosing the right treadmill for these workouts is crucial. Even professional players like John Terry rely on intense treadmill sessions, including his famous HIIT routine, to reach and maintain peak condition.
In this top 3 picks product review, we compare three top-rated treadmills for soccer players—the Sole F85, ProForm Pro 2000, and Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT—each designed to elevate your training. We’ll also highlight popular models that may not be the best fit for soccer players, so you know exactly which treadmills to consider and which to avoid. Let’s dive in!
Contents
| What to Look For in a Treadmill for Soccer Players |
| Sole F85 |
| ProForm Pro 2000 |
| Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT |
| FAQs: What You Need to Know |
| Product Comparison Table |
| Which Treadmill is the Right One For You? |
| Popular Treadmill Models Excluded from Our Recommendations |
What to Look For in a Treadmill for Soccer Players
When choosing a treadmill as a soccer player, it’s important to focus on features that enhance High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). HIIT is crucial for developing both speed and endurance, which are key to soccer performance.
Incline and Decline Options: Soccer demands explosive uphill sprints and quick downhill decelerations. A treadmill with adjustable incline and decline will help simulate these conditions, improving both endurance and strength.
Cushioning and Shock Absorption: To prevent injuries, look for treadmills with excellent cushioning to protect your joints during high-intensity runs, especially during intervals.
Speed Range: Soccer requires quick bursts of speed and sustained running. A treadmill with high maximum speeds (10-12 mph or higher) supports sprint training, which is critical for soccer players.
Interval Training Capabilities: Look for treadmills with features like quick speed adjustments or integrated HIIT programs, which allow seamless transitions between sprinting and recovery phases—a critical component of soccer conditioning.
Durability and Motor Strength: A strong motor (3.5 CHP or more) ensures that the treadmill can handle frequent, intense interval workouts without overheating or breaking down.
JOHN TERRY FAMOUS TREADMILL WORKOUT FOR SOCCER PLAYERS
Legendary defender John Terry is known for his disciplined training routines, and his treadmill workout is a prime example of how top athletes maintain peak performance. This High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) regimen focuses on explosive sprints followed by short recovery periods, helping soccer players build the speed and stamina needed to outpace opponents. The workout also incorporates incline sprints to simulate real-game conditions, pushing your endurance to new levels.
Top 3 Treadmills for Soccer Players
Sole F85
Sole F85
The Sole F85 is known for being a powerhouse treadmill that’s perfect for serious athletes, including soccer players who need interval training. It features a 4.0 HP motor and a spacious 22" x 60" running surface, which is ideal for both sprint training and longer runs. The F85 excels in providing seamless incline and speed transitions, which are crucial for HIIT workouts.
Why Soccer Players Should Consider It
The F85 is ideal for soccer players looking for versatility and advanced training options. Its incline and decline features, along with its speed range, make it perfect for HIIT sessions that help soccer players build stamina and improve their speed.
Key Features
Motor: 4.0 HP for consistent, powerful performance during interval training.
Incline/Decline: 15% incline and -6% decline to simulate outdoor conditions, essential for interval runs.
Running Area: Extra-large 22" x 60" deck provides ample room for sprinting.
Speed: 0.5-12 MPH, perfect for various training needs, including HIIT sessions where quick speed adjustments are required.
Display: 15.6” touchscreen with preloaded apps like Netflix and YouTube for distraction during long endurance sessions.
Connectivity: Bluetooth and WiFi-enabled for apps like Sole+ and wireless charging for devices.
Warranty: Lifetime on the frame, motor, and deck.
ProForm Pro 2000
ProForm Pro 2000
The ProForm Pro 2000 offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability. Equipped with a self-cooling Mach Z motor, incline and decline options, and a cushioned deck, it supports a wide range of training regimens, including HIIT. The ProShox cushioning makes high-intensity training more comfortable, and the iFit compatibility offers guided workouts.
Why Soccer Players Should Consider It
The Pro 2000’s incline/decline features are particularly useful for HIIT sessions, simulating real-game terrain and conditions. It also has integrated iFit system allows you to follow interval-based workouts that can enhance the exprience with guided workouts.
Key Features
Motor: 3.5 CHP Mach Z Commercial motor optimized for both casual jogging and intense interval training.
Incline/Decline: 15% incline and -3% decline to engage different muscle groups during intervals.
Running Area: Spacious 20" x 60" deck, which is great for long strides and sprinting.
Speed: Up to 12 MPH, suitable for speed training and intervals, ideal for soccer players doing sprints and recovery runs.
Display: 10" HD interactive touchscreen with iFit integration for on-demand HIIT workouts.
Cushioning: ReBound Pro cushioning for shock absorption, making intense sprints and HIIT more joint-friendly.
Warranty: 10 years on the frame, 2 years on parts, and 1 year on labor.
Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Studio Series Treadmill
Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT
The Horizon 7.4 AT is specifically designed for interval training and HIIT, making it an excellent option for soccer players. With QuickDial™ controls for fast speed and incline adjustments, and the Sprint 8 HIIT program, this treadmill is perfect for athletes looking to improve their speed and endurance. Its Rapid Sync motor ensures smooth transitions between sprinting and recovery, a key feature for interval training.
Why Soccer Players Should Consider It
The Horizon 7.4 AT is built for athletes focused on HIIT and interval training, with its quick-response motor and Sprint 8 program tailored to fat-burning and stamina-building. Soccer players can easily transition between high-speed sprints and recovery, mimicking the fast-paced bursts needed in a game.
Key Features
Motor: 3.5 CHP with Rapid Sync™ technology for fast speed and incline changes during interval training.
Incline: 15% incline to help soccer players strengthen their leg muscles during uphill sprints.
Running Area: Expansive 22" x 60" deck for comfortable long-distance runs and HIIT sprints.
Speed: Max speed of 12 MPH with QuickDial™ adjustments, making it perfect for HIIT.
Display: 8.25" LCD screen that tracks key metrics (time, speed, distance) and Bluetooth integration for apps like Peloton and Zwift.
Cushioning: 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning for reduced joint impact, especially useful during high-impact sprints and recovery.
HIIT Feature: Integrated Sprint 8 HIIT program designed to burn fat and increase stamina in just 20 minutes.
Warranty: Lifetime on the frame and motor.
FAQs as a Soccer Player Buying a Treadmill: What You Need to Know
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Soccer involves varied running terrains, from flat-out sprints to uphill chases. A treadmill with incline options allows you to simulate these real-game conditions, improving endurance and leg strength. Look for a treadmill with at least a 10-15% incline for effective training.
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Absolutely! HIIT mirrors the quick bursts of speed required in soccer, such as sprinting toward the ball or chasing down an opponent. Treadmills with quick speed and incline adjustments are perfect for HIIT, making them ideal for improving explosive power and recovery.
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Soccer players need a treadmill that can support high-speed sprints. Look for treadmills with a speed range of at least 12 MPH or more to allow for interval training and sprint work.
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Joint health is critical for soccer players, who often endure high-impact movements. Treadmills with superior cushioning systems, like ProShox cushioning or 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning, reduce the impact on your knees and joints, mimicking the softness of grass rather than hard pavement.
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Yes, a strong motor ensures the treadmill can keep up with intense and frequent workouts. Soccer players should look for treadmills with a 3.5 to 4.0 CHP motor to handle both sprint intervals and longer endurance runs without strain.
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Foldable treadmills save space, making them perfect for home gyms where space might be limited. Treadmills with easy folding mechanisms like the Sole F85, and ProForm Pro 2000 or Horizon 7.4 AT allow you to store the machine between workouts without sacrificing performance or stability.
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Built-in programs, especially those focused on HIIT or cardio, help soccer players structure their workouts without having to manually adjust settings. Programs like the Sprint 8 HIIT on the Horizon 7.4 AT or customizable options on the Sole F85 can help you optimize your training
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While incline training is crucial, decline options simulate running downhill, which can help strengthen different muscles and improve balance. Treadmills like the Sole F85, which offer both incline and decline, are ideal for comprehensive soccer training.
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A larger running surface (ideally 22" x 60") provides more room for natural strides, especially during sprints. For soccer players, having ample space for fast movements is crucial to avoid feeling restricted or unbalanced during training.
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Soccer players often engage in intense and frequent workouts, so treadmill durability is key. Look for models with a sturdy frame, high weight capacity, and warranty coverage, especially on the motor and frame. Treadmills like the Sole F85 offer lifetime warranties, indicating higher durability.
Product Comparison
| Feature | Sole F85 | ProForm Pro 2000 | Horizon 7.4 AT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor | 4.0 HP | 3.5 CHP | 3.5 CHP |
| Running Surface | 22" x 60" | 20" x 60" | 22" x 60" |
| Max Speed | 12 MPH | 12 MPH | 12 MPH |
| Incline/Decline | 15% / -6% | 15% / -3% | 15% / N/A |
| Display | 15.6” Touchscreen | 10” HD Touchscreen | 8.25" LCD Screen |
| Cushioning | CushionFlex Whisper | ReBound Pro | 3-Zone Variable |
| HIIT Feature | Customizable Programs | iFit HIIT Sessions | Sprint 8 HIIT Program |
| Warranty | Lifetime on motor/frame | 10 years on frame | Lifetime on motor/frame |
Which Treadmill is Right For You?
Sole F85
If You Prioritize Advanced Incline/Decline Features, Powerful Performance, and HIIT Workouts
The Sole F85 is our “Top Pick” for the best treadmill for soccer players, especially if you're focused on High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). While it’s priced slightly higher than the other options in our top 3, it's worth the investment if you want superior performance. Its impressive incline and decline range (15% incline and -6% decline), combined with a powerful 4.0 HP motor, ensures fast transitions between intervals, making it ideal for HIIT sessions where you need quick adjustments. The 15.6" touchscreen display with built-in apps like Netflix adds a layer of convenience for longer recovery periods or cooldowns.
ProForm Pro 2000
If You’re Looking for Affordability Without Sacrificing Key Features
The ProForm Pro 2000 offers excellent value and budget-friendly. Despite its lower price point, it still provides key features like a 3.5 CHP motor, incline/decline options, and iFit integration, making it a solid choice for HIIT workouts. Its cushioning system ensures comfort even during intense interval training.
Horizon 7.4 AT
If You Focus on Interval Training and HIIT
The Horizon 7.4 AT is a top contender for soccer players who focus on HIIT and need a treadmill designed for quick speed and incline changes. Its Sprint 8 program is designed to maximize fat burning and endurance improvement in just 20-minute sessions, making it a top choice for players focused on short-burst, high-intensity training. With QuickDial™ controls, adjusting speed and incline is seamless, allowing for effortless transitions during fast-paced interval workouts. Whether you're targeting quick sprints or focused on fat loss, this treadmill delivers efficient, results-driven training.
Popular Treadmills to Avoid or Just Aren't Ideal for Soccer Players
While the Sole F85, ProForm Pro 2000, and Horizon 7.4 AT are excellent choices for soccer players, other well-known models were excluded due to various reasons. Below, we highlight a few notable treadmills and explain why they didn’t make the cut.
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Peloton is a major player in the fitness space, known for its immersive workouts and robust training ecosystem. However, the Peloton Tread was excluded from our top recommendations for a few key reasons:
Price Point: The Peloton Tread comes at a significantly higher price point than the three models we highlighted, which are more affordable without sacrificing important features for soccer players, such as interval training capabilities. Peloton’s entry-level treadmill starts at over $3,000, making it less accessible for athletes looking for value alongside performance.
Dependency on Subscription: The Peloton Tread is designed around its interactive subscription-based workout programs, which cost around $44 a month. While these classes are engaging and well-produced, many users prefer more freedom with their workouts. The models we recommended, such as the Horizon 7.4 AT, provide integration with third-party apps without requiring an ongoing subscription.
Less Focus on HIIT: Peloton's workout ecosystem is strong in guided running classes, but it isn't as focused on interval training (HIIT) features as the Sprint 8 program on the Horizon 7.4 AT, or the customizable HIIT programs on the Sole F85, which are critical for soccer players training for endurance and explosive speed.
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The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a popular model that many athletes consider, but several factors led to its exclusion from our top three treadmill recommendations:
Poor Reviews on Durability and Customer Service: While the 1750 has strong features on paper, including a high-powered motor and incline/decline options, there are a large number of negative reviews online, particularly regarding its durability and customer service. Many users have reported issues with the machine breaking down, and difficulties in getting timely support from NordicTrack’s service team.
Overcomplicated Interface: The 1750 offers iFit integration, but many users have found its interface to be less intuitive compared to models like the Sole F85 or Horizon 7.4 AT, where usability and ease of control during interval training are smoother and more streamlined. This can be especially frustrating for athletes who need to focus on their workouts without being bogged down by confusing tech.
Subscription Costs: Like Peloton, the NordicTrack 1750 heavily promotes its iFit subscription for guided workouts, which is an additional ongoing expense. For athletes who prefer a treadmill that offers plenty of built-in programs and the flexibility to use external devices, options like the Horizon 7.4 AT offer more versatility.
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The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is another popular high-end treadmill that didn’t make it into our top three recommendations for several reasons:
Overemphasis on Entertainment Features: The Bowflex Treadmill 22 offers a large, 22-inch touchscreen and access to JRNY, Bowflex’s subscription service for interactive workouts. However, this model places a significant focus on entertainment and screen features, which may not appeal to serious athletes focused on performance metrics and HIIT. Models like the Horizon 7.4 AT offer more practical features for interval training without the distraction of oversized entertainment screens.
Hefty Price Tag: Priced at over $2,500, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 is more expensive than the Sole F85, ProForm Pro 2000, and Horizon 7.4 AT, all of which provide comparable or better performance features at lower price points.
Heavy and Large Footprint: The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is bulky and heavy, which makes it less ideal for athletes looking for a foldable, space-saving option. The models we recommended, such as the Horizon 7.4 AT, feature foldable designs that are perfect for home use, where space may be limited.
Here is a review of the NordicTrack 1750 vs the SOLE F85 from Garage Gym
Spoiler alert: Garage Gym recommends the SOLE F85
While models like the Peloton Tread, NordicTrack Commercial 1750, and Bowflex Treadmill 22 are popular in the market, they were excluded from our top recommendations due to factors such as high costs, reliance on subscriptions, mixed reviews on durability, and less focus on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that soccer players require for explosive performance and endurance. The Sole F85, ProForm Pro 2000, and Horizon 7.4 AT provide a better balance of price, performance, and features specifically tailored to the needs of soccer athletes.
If you’re still interested in exploring the Peloton Tread, NordicTrack 1750 or and Bowflex Treadmill 22 despite our recommendation to avoid them, you can check them out using the links below
NordicTrack 1750
Pelaton Tread
Bowflex Treadmill 22
To wrap things up, here’s an excellent treadmill fitness workout from 7MLC specifically tailored for soccer players. This workout will help you build the stamina and endurance needed on the field. Whether you're looking to improve your interval training or maintain peak fitness during the off-season, this video provides a practical routine you can follow.
