America's greatest fitness success story
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 8:04 am
Treadmill's Enduring Appeal: A Fitness Staple in a Fickle World
The treadmill, a ubiquitous fixture in gyms and homes across America, continues to hold its ground as a preferred exercise method, defying the ever-changing landscape of fitness fads. While trends like spin classes and strength training rise and fall, the treadmill remains a consistent choice for millions.
Data from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) reveals that approximately 56.8 million Americans used a treadmill in 2024, mirroring usage rates from 2019. This places treadmill use on par with jogging and free weight lifting, second only to walking in terms of popularity. SFIA's research indicates that nearly 18.4% of the US population aged six and older utilizes treadmills at least annually, a slight increase from 2014.
The treadmill's appeal transcends demographics, appealing to individuals across age groups, income levels, and educational backgrounds, although it tends to be more popular among women, higher-income earners, college graduates, and white individuals. This widespread adoption has translated into significant revenue, with treadmills generating approximately $1.1 billion in revenue in 2025, according to IBISWorld data.
Experts attribute the treadmill's enduring popularity to its accessibility, convenience, and proven effectiveness. It provides a readily available means of maintaining mobility and cardiovascular health. The rise of aerobic fitness in the late 1960s and 1970s, coupled with the growing awareness of the benefits of exercise, fueled the treadmill's adoption.
While newer fitness trends like the 12-3-30 workout and Zone 2 cardio have emerged, the treadmill remains a versatile tool for various fitness levels. Modern treadmills offer features like interactive classes and entertainment options, further enhancing their appeal.
BNN's Perspective: The treadmill's sustained popularity highlights the importance of accessible and effective exercise options. While fitness trends come and go, the treadmill's simplicity and practicality offer a reliable path to maintaining physical health. Its continued relevance underscores the value of consistent, foundational exercise habits.
Keywords: treadmill, fitness, exercise, trends, cardio, health, SFIA, revenue, workout, running, jogging, 12-3-30, Zone 2, accessibility, convenience.