Moving a Horizon treadmill to a new room or a new home doesn’t have to be a workout in itself. With the right preparation and technique, you can learn how to move a Horizon treadmill safely and avoid injury or damage. This guide will walk you through every step, from getting ready to the final setup, ensuring your fitness routine is back on track quickly.
The biggest mistake people make is trying to move a treadmill like a regular piece of furniture. They are heavy, awkward, and contain sensitive electronics. A haphazard move can hurt your back, damage your floors, or break the treadmill. Taking your time and following a methodical approach is the key to success.
How to Move a Horizon Treadmill
Before you touch the treadmill, you need to get prepared. Rushing this stage is the most common cause of problems later. Set aside at least an hour for the entire process, and don’t be afraid to ask a friend for help—it’s highly recommended.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Gathering your supplies first makes everything smoother. You likely have most of these items already.
* A friend or family member to assist you.
* The treadmill’s original security key (for locking the deck).
* A set of basic tools: usually an Allen wrench and/or adjustable wrench.
* A set of moving blankets or thick towels.
* A furniture dolly (preferably one with straps).
* Packing tape or plastic wrap.
* A pair of scissors or a box cutter.
* A clean, flat space in the new room for assembly.
Step 1: Safety First – Unplug and Clear the Area
Always start by disconnecting the power. Unplug the treadmill’s power cord from the wall outlet. Then, carefully unplug the cord from the console itself to prevent it from dangling. Wrap the cord loosely and secure it with tape.
Clear a path from the treadmill to your exit door. Remove any rugs, toys, or other obstacles that could cause a trip. This is also a good time to check the path at the new location.
Step 2: Secure the Treadmill Deck
This critical step protects the motor and belt during transit. Find the small hole for the security key near the console or on the side frame. Insert the key and turn it to lock the deck in the upright position. If you’ve lost the key, you can carefully lift the deck and use a strong zip tie to hold it up, but the key is much safer.
Once the deck is locked, fold the base frame if your model allows it. This makes the unit more compact and balanced for moving.
Step 3: Protect Your Treadmill and Your Home
Wrap the entire treadmill in moving blankets or towels. Pay special attention to the console, which is fragile. Use packing tape or plastic wrap to hold the blankets in place, but avoid taping directly onto the console screen or polished surfaces.
Place a blanket or cardboard on the floor in front of the treadmill to protect your flooring when you tilt it. If you’re going down stairs, you’ll want to pad each stair edge as well.
Step 4: The Right Way to Tilt and Move
This is where your helper is essential. Never try to lift a treadmill flat—always tilt and roll it.
1. Both of you should stand at the front of the treadmill, facing the console.
2. Bend your knees, keep your backs straight, and get a firm grip on the main frame (not the console arms).
3. On the count of three, tilt the treadmill back onto its rear wheels. It should now be balanced like a hand truck.
4. Your helper can now guide from the front while you control the tilt and balance from behind.
If you have a long distance to cover over flat ground, carefully lower the treadmill onto the furniture dolly and strap it in place. Then you can roll it smoothly.
Step 5: Navigating Doorways and Stairs
Doorways require a pivot. Tilt the treadmill through the doorway at an angle, leading with one side. Go slow to avoid scraping the frame.
For stairs, extra caution is non-negotible. The person at the bottom will bear most of the weight. Tilt the treadmill so it is stair-stepping down, not sliding. Move one step at a time, communicating constantly. If you have more than a few steps, consider using an appliance dolly with straps or hiring professional movers—it’s worth the cost for safety.
Step 6: Final Placement and Setup
You’re almost done! Position the treadmill in its new spot, leaving at least two feet of clearance behind it and on each side for safety and airflow.
Gently lower it from the tilted position back onto all four feet. Unlock and lower the deck carefully. Remove all the blankets and wrapping. Plug the power cord into the console first, then into a dedicated wall outlet. Avoid using an extension cord if possible.
Perform a quick test. Start at a very slow speed and walk for a minute to ensure everything is running smoothly and the belt is centered.
Special Considerations for Different Models
While the basic principles are the same, some Horizon models need specific attention.
For Horizon 7.0 AT, 7.4 AT, or T101 Models: These are heavier commercial-style treadmills. The console may be removable. Check your manual; if you can detach it with a few bolts, do so. It makes the main frame much lighter and easier to handle.
For Folding Models (like the T202): The folding mechanism is your friend. Ensure it is fully locked in the folded position before tilting. Double-check that any locking pins are engaged.
Moving in a Moving Truck: Always transport the treadmill upright, secured against a truck wall with straps. Lay it flat only if absolutely necessary, and place it on top of other items, not underneath them. Do not store items on top of the treadmill.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning what not to do is just as important. Steer clear of these errors:
* Lifting Instead of Tilting: This is the fastest route to a back injury. Use the wheels.
* Dragging the Treadmill: This will rip your floors and damage the treadmill feet.
* Forgetting to Lock the Deck: An unlocked deck can swing down during a move, pinching fingers or damaging the motor.
* Skipping the Helper: The risk is too high. Always have a spotter.
* Using the Console as a Handle: The console and arms are not designed to support the full weight. Grip the main steel frame.
When to Call Professional Movers
Sometimes, DIY isn’t the best option. Consider hiring professionals if:
* You have multiple flights of stairs or tight, winding staircases.
* The treadmill must go a long distance or into a high-floor apartment.
* You have any health conditions that make heavy lifting unsafe.
* You simply don’t have the help available.
Professional movers have the right equipment and experience. They can often move it quicker and with zero stress on your part. Get a quote—it might be more affordable than you think.
FAQ: Your Moving Questions Answered
Q: Can I move a Horizon treadmill by myself?
A: It is strongly discouraged. Even lighter models are awkward and can cause injury. The two-person tilt-and-roll method is the only safe DIY approach.
Q: How do I move a Horizon treadmill without a dolly?
A: You can tilt it and use the rear wheels to roll it slowly over short, flat distances. For any carpets or thresholds, you’ll need to carefully lift the front end over them. This is much more strenuous and risky.
Q: What if I lost the security key to lock the deck?
A: Contact Horizon Fitness customer service to order a replacement. In the meantime, you can use a strong, thick zip tie to secure the deck in the upright position, but be very cautious as this is not as secure as the metal key.
Q: Is it okay to lay a treadmill on its side during transport?
A: It’s generally not recommended. If you must, lay it so the console is facing upward and nothing is pressing on the deck or belt. Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific advice.
Q: How heavy is a typical Horizon treadmill?
A: Weight varies. Light folding models start around 200 pounds, while robust commercial models can exceed 300 pounds. Always check your specific model’s manual for the exact weight.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure your Horizon treadmill relocation is successful. Taking the proper precautions protects your investment and keeps you safe, so you can get back to walking or running without any setbacks. Remember, a little patience during the move leads to many more miles of happy workouts.