9 Best Fitness Tracker for Treadmill Running (2024 Reviews)

Struggling to find the best fitness tracker for treadmill runs amidst a sea of options?  Or, are you even wondering: do fitness trackers work on treadmills? Short answer: they do.

As a Faculty of Sport and Physical Education student deeply versed in fitness technology, I understand your dilemma. The best watch for treadmill running can revolutionize your indoor runs, offering accurate tracking, motivational boosts, and insightful analysis of your running form. 

In fact, a study from PubMed Central titled “Health Habits and Wearable Activity Tracker Devices: Analytical Cross-Sectional Study” found that wearable activity tracker devices indeed increase exercise motivation through various constructs [1].

Drawing from my extensive experience with Apple watches and different fitness trackers while also helping clients maximize their use, this article will help you find the best sports watch to track treadmill running. 

Get ready to transform your treadmill workouts and achieve your fitness goals after finding the best smartwatch for a treadmill that comes with the most accurate data.

Top 3 Fitness Trackers for a Treadmill

Best Fitness Tracker for Treadmill 2024 Reviews

After thoroughly analyzing and testing each of the best smartwatch for treadmill models, I crafted easy-to-digest tracker reviews that will help you decide the one perfect for you.

Ready to make your treadmill running less boring and more effective by picking the perfect indoor running watch?

If so, let’s jump straight into the best fitness tracker for running on treadmill reviews below. 

1. Best Overall: Apple Watch Series 4

Apple Watch Series 4 is specifically calibrated for treadmill running. It is the best fitness tracker runners tend to use because it precisely tracks your every step and monitors your heart rate, ensuring every indoor session’s data is spot-on. 

The Series 4 takes the guesswork out of your workouts with its automatic workout detection feature. 

This running fitness tracker cleverly recognizes when you begin your run, capturing every stride, even if you forget to start the tracking manually, just like I did yesterday because I was previously arguing with my girlfriend. Too much?

The enhanced speaker and microphone ensure crystal-clear audio, making your treadmill runs more enjoyable with your favorite tunes or important call connectivity.

A study titled “Reliability and Validity of Commercially Available Wearable Devices for Measuring Steps, Energy Expenditure, and Heart Rate: Systematic Review” from PubMed Central found that in laboratory-based settings, Fitbit, Apple Watch, and Samsung appeared to measure steps accurately [1]. 

Based on my tests, its extended battery life of up to 18 hours is a game-changer for long indoor runs, keeping up with your endurance without a hitch. Plus, with activity competitions, you can stay motivated and engaged, pushing your limits each time you hit the treadmill. 

Compact, precise, and packed with features, the Apple Watch Series 4 is more than just a tracker; it’s your dedicated partner in achieving treadmill fitness goals.

Hint: they are more precise than wrist-worn trackers [2].

2. Best Budget: Fitbit Charge 3

Fitbit Charge 3 is a powerhouse for treadmill enthusiasts. With its range of fitness modes, it doesn’t just count your steps. In my experience, it becomes a part of your run, tracking every calorie and every minute of sleep, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your fitness.

Forget the hassle of starting and stopping your workout tracking. The Charge 3’s automatic workout detection seamlessly understands when you begin your treadmill run, offering effortless tracking. Its heart rate monitoring is meticulously precise, providing invaluable data for those aiming to hit specific training zones, boosting the effectiveness of your workouts.

The device’s design is where function meets style. Its larger display ensures ease of reading your stats mid-run, while the array of wristband options offers the elegance of a fashion accessory. 

Plus, its waterproof design stands up to the most intense treadmill sessions or cross-training swims, just like the ones I accidentally forgot to do yesterday in the local gym.

Another study titled “How Accurate Is Your Activity Tracker? A Comparative Study of Step Counts in Low-Intensity Physical Activities” from PubMed found that Fitbit trackers were most accurate when walking on a treadmill and least accurate during walking with a walking aid and for low-intensity activities [3].

Set your workout goals directly on your Charge 3 fitness tracker for runners and receive feedback through intuitive data displays and vibrations. I found that this will keep you more focused and driven in the long run.

3. Most Accurate: SUUNTO 3 Fitness Tracker

According to my tests, SUUNTO 3 excels in tracking a variety of activities, from your vigorous indoor runs to outdoor cycling and swimming sessions. The adaptive training guidance feature is a game-changer if you are committed to improving your fitness systematically. 

Imagine having a personal coach on your wrist, crafting custom 7-day training plans tailored to your fitness level and goals, and adjusting as you progress. It doesn’t get better than that, trust me. Well, it does if the tracker performs the whole workout instead of you, but let’s be real here.

In addition to that, its reliable optical heart rate monitor keeps you in your desired intensity zone, making each treadmill session count.

The sleek, athletic look with an ultra-soft microfiber strap ensures comfort and style, whether you’re sweating it out on the treadmill or going about your day. Beyond just tracking steps and workouts, it monitors your stress and recovery, offering a comprehensive view of your fitness journey. 

Its seamless connectivity with sports apps and community engagement through the Suunto workout app adds a layer of motivation, making the SUUNTO 3 not just a tracker but a partner in your fitness journey.

4. Best Premium: Polar Vantage V

Polar Vantage V can accurately monitor every step of your indoor run, ensuring no stride goes uncounted.

Polar’s deep-rooted expertise in heart rate technology shines in the Vantage V. Equipped with a 9 LED heart rate monitoring setup, including 5 green and 4 red LEDs, alongside sophisticated electrode sensors, the watch guarantees precise heart rate data. 

This feature is crucial for runners focusing on specific heart rate zones, ensuring your treadmill workouts are both efficient and effective. In addition to that, the Polar Vantage V boasts the Training Load Pro™ and Recovery Pro™ features. 

Based on my tests, Training Load Pro™ evaluates the impact of your workouts on different body systems, while Recovery Pro™ assesses your daily recovery, guiding you to avoid overtraining and injuries. 

As the first sports watch to measure running power from the wrist, the Vantage V offers an innovative approach to monitoring your workout intensity. It is particularly useful for interval and uphill treadmill training, activities I have scheduled on a Monday morning but would rather never do again.

Overall, with over 130 sports profiles and seamless app connectivity, the Polar Vantage V is perfect for every treadmill and indoor running lover.

5. Garmin Forerunner 45

This sleek, lightweight watch is a dream for treadmill enthusiasts, offering unmatched comfort on your wrist. Its specialized treadmill mode guarantees precise workout tracking, ensuring every step counts. 

The optical sensor delivers accurate heart rate data, which is essential for effective training. Track your pace, time, distance, heart rate zones, and calories with ease. 

I found through testing that it can elevate your training with advanced features like VO2 Max estimation, a key tool for monitoring fitness progress. 

With a user-friendly interface, color display, and simple button navigation, the Forerunner 45 screams convenience and efficiency in a fitness tracker, making it an ideal companion for your treadmill runs.

6. Garmin Vivoactive 4

Whether you’re pacing the indoor track or sprinting on the treadmill, the Vivoactive 4’s sophisticated accelerometer precisely calculates your speed, distance, and cadence. This smart device is self-calibrating, honing its accuracy with each outdoor run, ensuring your indoor data is spot-on.

But it’s not just about running. The Vivoactive 4’s calibration feature is a game-changer for treadmill users. After a 1.5 km run, input the treadmill’s distance into the watch. Running on different treadmills? No problem. You can recalibrate each time for pinpoint accuracy.

Beyond tracking, the Vivoactive 4 is a holistic fitness companion. It counts your steps, monitors sleep, nudges you with its move bar when you’re inactive, and adapts your step goals. Its all-day stress tracking and body battery insights offer a comprehensive view of your fitness and energy levels.

Dive into a variety of sports modes with its essential sensors, including GPS and an altimeter. Track running, cycling, swimming, and more. And for the tech-savvy, the Connect IQ app store opens up a world of customization – think unique watch faces, apps, and widgets.

7. Fitbit Flex 2

Fitbit Flex 2 is a fitness tracker that blends style, comfort, and functionality seamlessly. Designed for the modern runner, the Flex 2 features a built-in accelerometer that diligently tracks your steps, distance, and calories burned. 

Its standout SmartTrack technology automatically recognizes and records your treadmill workouts. In my experience, this lets you focus on your run without fiddling with settings. 

The Flex 2 isn’t just smart; it’s also a fashion statement. With its sleek design, light build, and skin-friendly elastomer material, you’ll barely notice it on your wrist. Choose from various stylish forms, including a bangle or pendant, to suit your personal style.

Durability is a given with the Flex 2. It’s waterproof, making it perfect for those intense, sweaty treadmill sessions. Stay connected without distractions – the unique LED light system subtly notifies you of calls and texts. The long battery life of up to five days means less charging and more running.

Enhance your fitness journey with the Fitbit app. Compatible with both Apple and Android devices, it offers a comprehensive view of your progress, from body weight changes to hydration levels. 

8. Garmin Venu 2

Tailored for treadmill enthusiasts, this watch offers unparalleled calibration of treadmill distances. After a 1.5 km run, simply input the treadmill’s display data into your Venu 2, ensuring accurate tracking across various treadmills.

I found its battery life to be a marathoner’s dream (forget the fact that I am not a marathoner) — up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and 22 hours with GPS. This means more time running and less time connected to a charger. Coupled with its 5 ATM water resistance, the Venu 2 thrives in the sweaty realm of treadmill workouts.

For the health-conscious runner, advanced monitoring of sleep stages, pulse ox, and respiration through the health snapshot feature offers a comprehensive view of your recovery and readiness. The state-of-the-art Garmin elevated heart sensor ensures precise cardiovascular tracking, which is vital for performance analysis.

Diversify your treadmill and exercise bike sessions with its extensive workout features, from cardio to HIIT, complemented by on-screen animations. GPS-enabled running profiles, including indoor and treadmill modes, along with cadence tracking, equip you with the data to refine your form and pace.

9. Fitbit Charge HR

Whether you’re sprinting to burn calories or maintaining a steady pace for endurance, the Charge HR’s PurePulse technology delivers real-time heart rate data without the hassle of a chest strap. It’s the perfect partner for every treadmill enthusiast keen on targeted heart zone training.

But that’s just the start. The Charge HR is a vigilant guardian of your fitness journey, tracking every step, every mile, and every calorie burned. It’s your all-day fitness companion, keeping tabs on your activity levels and encouraging you to reach new heights.

Sleep is as crucial as your run, and Charge HR understands this, automatically monitoring your sleep patterns to ensure your training is perfectly balanced with ample rest.

Don’t miss a beat or a call with its handy Caller ID feature, keeping you connected even during the most intense treadmill sessions. And with a battery life that powers through up to 5 days, frequent charging is a thing of the past.

Designed for comfort and durability, its water-resistant build stands strong against the sweat of rigorous workouts. However, a word of caution for those with sensitive skin: be mindful of the fit.

Best Fitness Trackers for Treadmill Compared

Image	Product	Features	Score
	Apple Watch Series 4	– 40 millimeters screen size – Aluminum case – Electrical and optical heart sensors	4.76
	Fitbit Charge 3	– Bluetooth 4.0 – Swimproof and water-resistant to 50 meters – 15 plus exercise modes	4.8
	SUUNTO 3 Fitness Tracker	– Soft microfiber strap – Scandinavian design – Ultra durable material	4.8
	Polar Vantage V	– Waterproof – Include H10 HRM chest strap – 1.2 inches screen size	4.73
	Garmin Forerunner 45	– 1-inch screen size – Built-in GPS – 7-day battery life in watch mode	4.76
	Garmin Vivoactive 4	– 45 millimeters screen size – Unisex adult – 20 preloaded GPS and indoor sports apps	4.8
	Fitbit Flex 2	– Weighs just above 18 grams – LED display lights – Swimproof	4.8
	Garmin Venu 2	– Slate bezel with black case and silicone band – Music player – 1.3 inches screen size	4.8
	Fitbit Charge HR	– Rectangular shape – Compatible with iOS & android – 1-inch screen size	4,76

How We Selected the Fitness Trackers to Test Before Narrowing Down the List

I utilized Takeoff Health’s website to form my list of fitness trackers for treadmill use initially. By taking their detailed quiz, which analyzes personal health needs and preferences, I received a tailored list of product recommendations. 

This initial selection was based on Takeoff Health’s algorithm, ensuring the recommendations were evidence-based and closely matched my specific requirements for treadmill running.

After receiving these personalized suggestions from Takeoff Health, I proceeded to a hands-on evaluation and testing phase to narrow the list even further and ensure you get only those fitness trackers that are truly best for treadmill use. More on the testing process in the section below.

How We Tested the Best Fitness Trackers for Treadmill

Here is the entire testing process explained in great detail.

Accuracy of Step Count and Distance Measurement

I rigorously assessed the step count and distance measurement accuracy of each fitness tracker during my treadmill sessions. By running set distances and comparing the tracker’s data with the treadmill’s own metrics, I could gauge how precisely each device measured both steps and distance.

Heart Rate Monitoring Accuracy

For heart rate monitoring, I wore the trackers alongside a standard heart rate monitor. 

This comparison during different exercise intensities allowed me to evaluate the precision of the tracker’s heart rate sensors under varying workout conditions.

Treadmill-Specific Features

I explored each tracker’s unique features for treadmill running, such as specific workout modes and pace tracking. 

This helped me understand how well each device was tailored to meet the needs of treadmill users.

Battery Life During Workout Mode

To test battery life, I used each fitness tracker continuously in workout mode during lengthy treadmill runs. This process gave me insights into how long each device could last on a single charge under rigorous workout conditions.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort and fit were crucial in my testing. I wore each tracker for extended periods during treadmill workouts, noting any discomfort, irritations, and overall wearability to assess how well they fit during active use.

For seniors or those preferring simpler devices, explore our recommendations for fitness trackers that don’t require a smartphone.

Data Syncing and Integration

Finally, I examined the syncing process and data integration capabilities of each tracker with its respective app. 

I paid attention to the ease of transferring workout data, the clarity of the information presented, and the overall user experience in managing and interpreting this data.

Buyer’s Guide

Here is a tailored guide on selecting the perfect fitness tracker for treadmill use, along with the most important factors to consider.

Note: New to fitness trackers? Understand what a fitness tracker is and how it can benefit your treadmill workouts.

Accuracy of Step and Distance Tracking

A fitness tracker needs to provide accurate data on steps and distance, especially for treadmill use, where tracking progress accurately is crucial. Look for trackers known for precision, and check reviews specifically focusing on their performance on treadmills.

Heart Rate Monitoring

A good tracker should offer continuous heart rate monitoring to help you train efficiently and safely. This feature is important for tracking your fitness level and ensuring you’re working within the right heart rate zones for your goals.

Battery Life

Consider the battery life carefully. If you’re a frequent user or engage in long training sessions, a longer battery life means less frequent charging and more convenience.

Virtual Running Courses and Challenges

These features can greatly enhance the treadmill running experience by providing virtual landscapes or challenges, making your indoor runs more engaging and less monotonous.

Stride Length Analysis

This feature helps in improving your running form by analyzing the length of your stride. It’s particularly useful for fine-tuning your running technique and efficiency.

Cadence Tracking

Monitoring your cadence, or the number of steps you take per minute, is vital for maintaining an effective and safe running pace. This feature can help in preventing injuries and improving running performance.

Customizable Workout Programs

Trackers that offer customizable workout programs allow you to tailor your training to meet your specific fitness goals, which can be extremely beneficial for structured training.

Recovery Time Suggestions

Devices that suggest recovery times based on your workout intensity can help optimize your training schedule, prevent overtraining, and improve overall fitness.

Foot Strike Pattern Analysis

This feature analyzes how your foot lands on the treadmill, which can be important for selecting the right running shoes and for reducing the risk of injuries.

Music Control and Storage

Having your music integrated into your fitness tracker can make your workouts more enjoyable. Look for devices that allow you to control and store music so you can enjoy your favorite tunes without needing additional devices.

Indoor Air Quality Monitoring (For Smartwatches)

For those who are health-conscious or have respiratory concerns, this feature can be crucial. It helps monitor the air quality in your workout environment, ensuring it’s safe and conducive to your health.

Why Buy a Specialized Fitness Tracker for a Treadmill or Indoor Running?

Here are some reasons to buy a specialized fitness tracker for a treadmill or indoor running.

Running on a Treadmill Is a Part of Your Fitness Routine

If treadmill running is a staple in your fitness routine, a specialized tracker can help you track progress, set goals, and stay motivated. These devices often come with features tailored for indoor workouts, enhancing your training experience.

You Need to Escape the Worst of the Weather (Hot or Cold)

Treadmill running is an excellent option when outdoor conditions are extreme. A specialized fitness tracker helps you maintain your indoor training regimen, providing consistent data and performance tracking, irrespective of the weather outside.

Also, if you are using a treadmill or running indoors, you don’t have to worry about your fitness tracker being waterproof.

It’s Just Your Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice to run on a treadmill and use a specialized fitness tracker can simply boil down to personal preference. Whether it’s for convenience, comfort, or the love of technology, these devices cater to your specific needs and help make your workouts more enjoyable and effective.

For those with smaller wrists, finding a comfortable fitness tracker is crucial. Discover our top fitness tracker picks for small wrists to ensure your fitness tracker fits perfectly and enhances your treadmill workouts.

FAQs

What Fitness Tracker Works on a Treadmill?

Most modern fitness trackers work on a treadmill by tracking steps, distance, and heart rate; examples include brands like Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple Watch. Many fitness trackers, including the ones mentioned earlier, use accelerometers and other sensors to measure indoor running.

What Is the Best Smart Watch for Running on a Treadmill?

The best smartwatch for running on a treadmill often includes models from Apple Watch, Garmin, and Samsung, as they accurately track indoor running activities. These smartwatches offer features like step counting, heart rate monitoring, and workout programs suitable for treadmill use.

Does Fitbit Work on Treadmill?

Yes, Fitbit works on a treadmill by accurately tracking steps, distance, and heart rate during indoor running sessions. Fitbit devices use advanced sensors to measure workout metrics on treadmills effectively.

Are Garmin Watches Accurate on Treadmills?

Garmin watches are accurate on treadmills, offering precise tracking of steps, distance, and heart rate. They use sophisticated sensor technology to provide reliable data for treadmill workouts.

Do Step Trackers Work on Treadmills?

Yes, step trackers work on treadmills by using motion sensors to count steps and calculate the distance covered during indoor running. Most modern step trackers are designed to record treadmill workouts accurately.

What Is More Accurate Smart Watch or Treadmill?

Between a smartwatch and a treadmill, the accuracy varies; smartwatches often provide more precise heart rate data, while treadmills might be more accurate in speed and distance metrics. The choice depends on the specific technology and calibration of each device.

Are Distance Trackers on Treadmills Accurate?

Distance trackers on treadmills can be accurate, but their precision depends on the treadmill’s calibration and technology. Generally, modern treadmills provide reliable distance measurements for indoor running.

Our Verdict on the Best Fitness Tracker for a Treadmill

According to our tests, the Apple Watch Series 4 stands out as the best fitness tracker for treadmill use due to its precision in tracking indoor running activities. Its advanced sensors accurately measure step count, distance, and heart rate. 

In addition to that, features like automatic workout detection and heart rate monitoring make it exceptionally user-friendly and reliable for treadmill workouts. This combination of accuracy, ease of use, and comprehensive tracking capabilities makes it a top choice for treadmill runners.

References:

1. Fuller D, Colwell E, Low J, et al. Reliability and Validity of Commercially Available Wearable Devices for Measuring Steps, Energy Expenditure, and Heart Rate: Systematic Review. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2020;8(9):e18694. Published 2020 Sep 8. doi:10.2196/18694
2. Klassen TD, Simpson LA, Lim SB, et al. “Stepping Up” Activity Poststroke: Ankle-Positioned Accelerometer Can Accurately Record Steps During Slow Walking. Phys Ther. 2016;96(3):355-360. doi:10.2522/ptj.20140611.
3. Alinia P, Cain C, Fallahzadeh R, Shahrokni A, Cook D, Ghasemzadeh H. How Accurate Is Your Activity Tracker? A Comparative Study of Step Counts in Low-Intensity Physical Activities. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth. 2017;5(8):e106. Published 2017 Aug 11. doi:10.2196/mhealth.6321