If you’re wondering how to check mileage on a treadmill, you’re in the right place. Tracking your total distance is a great way to monitor your progress and stay motivated. The method varies a bit depending on your treadmill’s brand and model, but the process is usually straightforward once you know where too look.
How to Check Mileage on a Treadmill
This main section covers the universal first steps you should take. Before you get into model-specific details, always start with these actions.
1. Check the Console Display During a Workout
The simplest way is to start a workout. Most treadmills show real-time data on the main screen.
- Start walking or running at a slow pace for safety.
- Look for a number followed by “MI” for miles or “KM” for kilometers. This is often your workout distance.
- Sometimes total mileage (or “odometer”) is on a different screen. Press the “Display” or “Mode” button to cycle through stats.
2. Look for an Odometer or Lifetime Distance
Many machines track total miles over there life, like a car. This is the number you often want.
- Search for words like “ODOM,” “Lifetime,” “Total Miles,” or “Total Use.”
- On some consoles, you need to be in “Quick Start” mode but not actively running to see it.
- Other models require you to access a hidden service menu. We’ll cover that next.
3. Consult Your Owner’s Manual
This is the most reliable source. If you’ve lost the paper copy, you can almost always find a PDF online.
- Search for “[Your Treadmill Brand and Model] owner’s manual PDF”.
- Look in the table of contents for sections like “Console Display,” “Readouts,” or “Specifications.”
- The manual will explain all display symbols and how to navigate menus.
Brand-Specific Instructions
Here are common methods for popular treadmill brands. Remember, models within a brand can differ.
NordicTrack Treadmills
Many NordicTrack treadmills with iFit show lifetime mileage in the service menu.
- Ensure the treadmill is completely off.
- Press and hold the “Stop” and “Speed +” buttons simultaneously.
- While holding them, plug the power cord back in. Continue holding for a few seconds until the service menu appears.
- Use the speed buttons to navigate to “Lifetime Distance” or a similar option. The incline buttons might scroll.
- Write down the number, then unplug the treadmill to exit.
ProForm Treadmills
ProForm is sister brand to NordicTrack, so the process is often similar.
- Try the same service menu method: hold “Stop” and “Speed +” while plugging in.
- Some newer SMART models track mileage in the ProForm app. Check your workout history their.
- Older models may show total miles on the console after a 3-key press combo, like “Speed +”, “Incline +”, and “Start”.
Horizon Fitness Treadmills
Horizon often makes it simpler. The lifetime distance is usually accessible through a basic menu.
- Turn on the treadmill but do not start a workout.
- Press and hold the “Speed” and “Incline” down buttons for 3-5 seconds.
- A test or information screen should appear, showing total kilometers or miles.
Life Fitness and LifeSpan Treadmills
These commercial-style treadmills often have a dedicated “Info” button.
- Press the “i” or “Information” button repeatedly to cycle through display options, including total usage.
- On some Life Fitness models, you press “Stop” and “Speed +” together for 5 seconds in standby mode.
- If it has a pin pad, entering a specific code (like 0000) can unlock maintenance data.
What If Your Treadmill Doesn’t Track Mileage?
Some basic or very old models don’t have an odometer. Don’t worry, you can still keep track.
- Use a wearable fitness tracker or smart watch. Sync it to an app like Strava or Apple Health to log each session.
- Keep a simple workout journal next to the treadmill. Write down the distance from your workout screen after each use and add it up.
- Use a dedicated fitness app on your tablet or phone. Manually enter the distance you see at the end of each run.
Why Checking Your Treadmill’s Mileage Matters
Knowing the total miles isn’t just for curiosity. It has practical benefits for maintenance and your own goals.
For Treadmill Maintenance
Like a car, parts wear out over time. Your mileage helps you schedule upkeep.
- Belt and Deck Lubrication: Most belts need lubricant every 130 miles or 3 months. High mileage means it’s definitely time.
- Belt Replacement: Treadmill belts often last between 500 to 2,000 miles. Checking you mileage helps you plan for this cost.
- Motor Wear: A high odometer reading indicates the motor has significant hours. It may run hotter or less efficiently.
For Your Personal Fitness Tracking
It’s a powerful motivational tool. Seeing a big cumulative number can give you a real sense of accomplishment.
- Set a goal to reach a certain lifetime distance, like 500 miles.
- Compare monthly mileage to see if your training consistency is improving.
- Use it to pace long-term training plans, like building a base for a race.
Resetting the Treadmill Odometer
Sometimes you might want to reset the mileage, like after replacing the belt or motor. Caution is needed.
- Only reset it if you’re performing major maintenance. The lifetime data is valuable for diagnosing future problems.
- The reset option is usually inside the same service menu where you find the mileage. It’s often labeled “Reset Odometer” or “Clear Lifetime.”
- Be certain you want to do it, as the process is usually irreversible. Consult a technician if your unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the mileage usually located on a treadmill?
It’s typically on the console display. You might need to cycle through data screens with a “Display” button or access a hidden service menu using a specific button combination.
Can you check treadmill distance without turning it on?
Usually, no. The console needs power to show the stored data. However, on some models, you can see it in standby mode without starting a workout.
Do all treadmills track total mileage?
No. Many budget-friendly or older models only show distance for the current workout session. They do not save a running lifetime total.
How do I find my treadmill’s total miles if the display is broken?
This is tricky. If the console is broken, the data is likely lost unless you can connect it to a manufacturer’s app. A technician might be able to retrieve it, but it’s not guaranteed.
Is treadmill mileage accurate?
It’s generally accurate for tracking the belt’s movement, but it might not perfectly match outdoor running distance due to lack of wind resistance and terrain changes. It’s excellent for consistent, comparative tracking over time.
Checking your treadmill’s mileage is a useful skill for any owner. By following the steps for your specific model, you can find that total distance number. Use it to stay on top of maintenance and to celebrate how far you’ve literally run. Regular checks help you get the most out of your machine for years to come.