A Nigerian’s Guide to Buying a Treadmill: Prices, Power & Best Models for 2025

The rainy season is here again, messing up your morning jog around the estate. Or maybe you just can’t face that gridlock traffic after work to get to the gym. A treadmill at home seems like the perfect answer, a way to get your workout in, no matter the weather or time of day.

But buying a treadmill in Nigeria isn’t a small decision. It’s a major investment, and you have questions: How much should I really spend? Will NEPA let me be great? Which one will even fit in my apartment? No wahala. This guide will walk you through everything, step-by-step.

What You Need to Know Before Buying

• Motor is King: Look for a motor with at least 2.0 Continuous Horsepower (CHP) for regular jogging and 2.5 CHP+ for serious running.
• Budget Wisely: A good, durable home-use treadmill starts around ₦400,000. Anything significantly cheaper might not last.
• Check the Power: Most home treadmills require 600-1500 watts. Ensure your generator or inverter can handle this load. A surge protector is non-negotiable.
• Space Matters: If you live in an apartment, a foldable treadmill is your best friend. Measure your space before you buy.
• Buy Genuine: Purchase from a certified dealer like Plus Fitness to get a warranty, professional installation, and after-sales support.

Step 1: Decode the Treadmill Jargon (What Really Matters)

When you start shopping, you’ll see a lot of technical terms. Let’s break down the four most important ones so you can choose with confidence.

1. Motor (CHP – Continuous Horsepower): This is the engine of your treadmill. It’s the most critical factor for performance and durability. Don’t be fooled by peak horsepower (PHP); CHP tells you the power it can sustain over time.
   • Walking: 1.5 – 2.0 CHP is okay.
   • Jogging: 2.0 – 2.5 CHP is the sweet spot for most users.
   • Serious Running: 2.5 CHP and above is what you need for long-lasting performance.
2. Running Belt Size: The size of the belt determines how comfortable and safe your run feels.
   • Standard for Jogging: At least 18 inches wide and 48 inches long.
   • Ideal for Running: 20 inches wide and 55 inches long or more. This gives you more room for error in your stride, which is safer.
3. Incline: The incline feature raises the front of the treadmill to simulate running uphill. This is fantastic for burning more calories and reducing impact on your joints. Most decent treadmills offer an incline of up to 10-12%.
4. Cushioning: A good cushioning system absorbs the impact of your steps, protecting your knees, ankles, and back. This is one of the biggest advantages over running on hard pavement or concrete roads. Brands like NordicTrack and Pro-Form have advanced cushioning technologies for this purpose.

Step 2: The NEPA Question – Powering Your Treadmill

This is the big one for every Nigerian household. Can my generator or inverter handle a treadmill?

Most home treadmills draw between 600 and 1500 watts of power during use [1]. Here’s a practical breakdown:

• Starting Up: The treadmill motor draws the most power when it first starts and when you change speeds.
• Generator Capacity: A small “I-better-pass-my-neighbour” generator (under 2.5kVA) will likely struggle and could damage the treadmill’s motor. You’ll need a generator of at least 3.5kVA, preferably higher, to run a treadmill safely alongside other appliances.
• Inverter Use: If you plan to use an inverter, ensure it’s a pure sine wave inverter with enough capacity. The initial power draw can be heavy, so check your inverter’s peak load rating.
• Surge Protector: This is not optional, abeg. The fluctuating power in Nigeria can fry your treadmill’s sensitive electronics. A high-quality surge protector is a must-have to protect your investment.

The Power-Free Option: If you don’t want to deal with power issues at all, consider a manual treadmill. It uses your own motion to move the belt. While less common and offering fewer features, it’s a 100% NEPA-proof solution for walking or light jogging.

Step 3: What to Expect at Different Price Points (in Naira)

The price of a treadmill in Nigeria is directly tied to its motor, build quality, and features. Here’s a realistic look at the market.

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Disclaimer: Prices are estimates as of October 2025 and can vary based on the dollar exchange rate and retailer.

Our Top Treadmill Picks for Nigerian Homes

Based on durability, features, and value, here are some of the best options available at Plus Fitness.

• For Small Apartments: The Pro-Form City L6 This treadmill is built for compact spaces. It folds completely flat, so you can slide it under a bed. With a 2.0 CHP motor and iFit connectivity, you get a powerful workout without sacrificing your living room. [Shop the Pro-Form City L6 on Plus Fitness]
• Best All-Rounder: The Pro-Form Carbon TLX A true workhorse. It features a strong 2.75 CHP motor, a 20″ x 55″ belt comfortable for running, and ProShox™ cushioning to protect your joints. It’s a solid, reliable choice for most families. [Explore Pro-Form Treadmills at Plus Fitness]
• For the Ultimate Experience: The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 If you’re a serious runner, this is your machine. It boasts a powerful 3.5 CHP motor, a large 14-inch HD touchscreen for iFit workouts, and both incline and decline to simulate real-world terrain. It’s the gold standard for home fitness. [View NordicTrack Treadmills at Plus Fitness]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a ₦250,000 treadmill from Jumia worth it? While tempting, treadmills at this price point often use lower-quality components, weaker motors, and have little to no warranty support. They may not withstand regular use, costing you more in the long run.

2. How long does a good treadmill last? With proper maintenance, a quality mid-range treadmill from a reputable brand can last 7-12 years.

3. Is running on a treadmill better than running on the road? It’s safer (no worries about traffic, uneven surfaces, or personal security) and has a lower impact on your joints due to the cushioned deck.

4. What maintenance does a treadmill require? Regularly wipe it down, check that the belt is centred and lubricated according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually every few months). Plus Fitness offers maintenance services to help.

5. Does Plus Fitness deliver outside of Lagos? Yes, Plus Fitness delivers nationwide to major cities like Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, and beyond. Professional installation can also be arranged.

Make the Right Connections

• Just starting your home gym? See how a treadmill fits into a larger plan in our [Guide to Building a Home Gym in a Small Nigerian Apartment].
• Still weighing your options? Learn about other cardio machines in our upcoming guide, [Treadmill vs. Elliptical: Which is Right for You?]

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right treadmill is about balancing your fitness goals with the realities of your space, budget, and our unique power situation. Don’t just focus on the lowest price; invest in a machine with a strong motor (2.0 CHP minimum) and a solid warranty from a trusted retailer. It’s an investment in your health that will pay dividends for years to come.

Take the Next Step

[Shop Our Full Range of Treadmills on Plus Fitness Now] (https://plusfitness.ng/product-category/cardio-equipment/treadmills/)

Confused? Let us help you choose. [Book a Free Consultation with a Fitness Expert] (https://plusfitness.ng/contact-us/)