Best Folding Treadmills for Virtual Races and Social Running in 2026
Virtual races, Zwift group runs, and app-based coaching have turned treadmills into social training hubs. If you’re running virtual marathons, chasing Strava badges, or joining live classes from your living room, your treadmill is no longer just a cardio machine—it’s your race course, start line, and group run all in one.
For virtual race and social running enthusiasts, the right folding treadmill has to balance three things:
- Strong connectivity for apps and platforms
- A belt and motor that can handle sustained running
- A space-saving design that actually fits real homes and apartments
We analyzed the FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill alongside the most relevant folding and connected treadmills on the market to find the best options for virtual racing and social running in 2026.
Introduction
Virtual races, Zwift group runs, and app-based coaching have turned treadmills into social training hubs. If you’re running virtual marathons, chasing Strava badges, or joining live classes from your living room, your treadmill is no longer just a cardio machine—it’s your race course, start line, and group run all in one.
For virtual race and social running enthusiasts, the right folding treadmill has to balance three things:
- Strong connectivity for apps and platforms
- A belt and motor that can handle sustained running
- A space-saving design that actually fits real homes and apartments
We analyzed the FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill alongside the most relevant folding and connected treadmills on the market to find the best options for virtual racing and social running in 2026.
How We Compared
- Virtual & social features: App compatibility (Zwift, Kinomap, iFIT, JRNY, Peloton, etc.), screens, Bluetooth, stats tracking, and how naturally it fits virtual races and social runs.
- Running performance: Belt size, speed, incline range, motor details (when available), shock absorption, and suitability for sustained training vs. casual jogging.
- Space & usability: Folding design, portability, deck height (for low ceilings), ease of storage, and how realistic it is for home use.
- Value & positioning: Price range and perceived tier (entry-level, mid-range, premium), plus warranties and support when stated.
- Fit for the 2026 virtual runner: How well each model supports interactive workouts, consistency for training plans, and daily practicality.
Based on these criteria, the FED Fitness Feier TM1 clearly stands out as the best-balanced option for virtual race and social running enthusiasts, especially those using Zwift and similar platforms.
Everything we recommend
FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill
A space-saving, app-friendly treadmill that is purpose-built for virtual racing with Zwift, Kinomap, a long belt and strong running performance in a folding frame.
BowFlex T16 Folding Treadmill
A premium treadmill with a large HD touchscreen, support for JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, and a robust 15% incline for a studio-like, immersive virtual running experience.
Yesoul T1M Plus Smart Treadmill
A highly immersive treadmill with a huge integrated 21.5" display, speakers, and stat tracking for users who want classes, virtual races and a built-in smart experience.
BowFlex T9 Treadmill
A connected treadmill with a wide running deck, fast inclines, and multi-platform support including Kinomap, Zwift, and JRNY for social runs and training plans.
BowFlex T6 Folding Treadmill
A mid-range connected treadmill with strong smart features—supports Peloton, Zwift, JRNY—QuickDial controls, incline, and a folding frame.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
A smart folding treadmill built around iFIT’s interactive platform, with a 20” x 55” belt, auto-adjust incline and speed for virtual and class-based training.
ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill
An approachable, folding treadmill with iFIT connectivity and a built-in tablet holder to easily enable your favorite apps and social runs.
UREVO Foldi 3S Treadmill
Compact, adjustable, app-accessible—aims to bring basic virtual racing and cardio to homes and offices with a folding design and quiet 2.5 HP motor.
Horizon Fitness T101 Connect Treadmill
A compact, foldable treadmill for space-conscious runners who prefer to use their own phone/tablet apps, with Bluetooth speakers and device holder.
NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
An entry-level, iFIT-compatible treadmill designed for home fitness and virtual coaching/newcomers exploring virtual races and classes.
Fitrx Velocity Folding Treadmill
A value-focused option with incline and LED console for budget buyers—can handle casual virtual runs but less immersive than higher-end choices.
FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill
Summary: A space-saving, app-friendly treadmill that feels purpose-built for virtual racing. With Zwift, Kinomap, and Anyrun compatibility; a generously sized 20" × 57" belt; up to 11.2 mph speed; and 12% incline, the Feier TM1 offers one of the strongest blends of performance and connected features in a compact, fully folding frame. For most virtual race and social running enthusiasts, this is the best all-around choice.
Feature Highlights:
- 20" × 57" running belt for comfortable running and walking
- Max speed 11.2 mph with up to 12% incline
- Native app compatibility: Anyrun, Kinomap, Zwift (real-time data via Bluetooth)
- 36 preset programs + 3 custom user programs
- 6 shock-absorbing pads for quieter, joint-friendly running
- Bluetooth, dual speakers, wireless phone charging, multi-function display with heart-rate detection
- Fully foldable, installation-free design with transport wheels and low deck height for low ceilings
- 265 lb weight capacity; 2.0 HP motor; item weight 160 lbs
- Free shipping, 30-day money-back guarantee, 1-year warranty, lifetime technical support
Pros:
- One of the best connectivity suites for virtual racing (Zwift + Kinomap + Anyrun) in this group
- Long, 57" belt and 11.2 mph top speed support serious runners and faster workouts
- Fully folding, low deck design works well in small spaces and low-ceiling rooms
- Strong value positioning with sale pricing and clear support/warranty terms
Cons:
- 2.0 HP motor is solid for home use but not a heavy-duty gym-class motor
- Brand is newer under the consolidated FED Fitness umbrella, so less long-term track record than legacy brands
Recommended configuration
| Processor: | — | Screen: | Multi-function LED display |
| Memory: | — | Weight: | 160 lbs (item weight), 265 lbs (capacity) |
BowFlex T16 Folding Treadmill
Summary: A premium, feature-heavy treadmill built for deep immersion in virtual and social running. The BowFlex T16 pairs a 16" HD touchscreen with support for JRNY, Peloton, and Zwift, plus a robust 15% motorized incline. If you want studio-grade smart features and are invested in multiple training platforms, this is an excellent—though likely more expensive—choice.
Feature Highlights:
- 16" HD touchscreen for streaming and guided workouts
- Smart app support: JRNY, Peloton, Zwift
- 15% motorized incline
- QuickDial controls for fast speed and incline changes
- Folding design for home use
Pros:
- One of the most immersive options for social running and virtual races
- Broad platform compatibility for users who mix apps (Zwift for racing, Peloton for classes, JRNY for adaptive coaching)
Cons:
- Premium positioning likely means a higher price than most in this list
- Larger frame and screen may be harder to place in very small spaces
Yesoul T1M Plus Smart Treadmill
Summary: A highly immersive “big screen” smart treadmill, the Yesoul T1M Plus brings a 21.5" HD display, dual speakers, and real-time stat tracking, clearly aimed at users who love live classes, virtual races, and social training sessions. It’s a strong pick if you prioritize built-in media and an all-in-one experience over compactness.
Feature Highlights:
- 21.5" HD screen for streaming classes and multimedia casting
- Dual speakers
- Real-time stat tracking for workouts
- Foldable treadmill design geared toward smart, connected training
Pros:
- Huge integrated display is ideal for social running classes and virtual race visuals
- All-in-one design reduces the need for separate tablets or TVs
Cons:
- Big screen likely adds bulk and cost compared with more minimalist options
- Less detail given about belt size, speed, and incline versus some competitors
BowFlex T9 Treadmill
Summary: A connected treadmill with a wide running surface and fast inclination changes, the BowFlex T9 is made for users who want reliable performance plus strong app support. Integration with Kinomap, Zwift, and JRNY makes it especially appealing to virtual runners who cross between training plans, scenic runs, and social group workouts.
Feature Highlights:
- Connected treadmill with wide running surface
- Fast incline capability
- Compatibility with Kinomap, Zwift, JRNY
- Designed for engaging, virtual runs
Pros:
- Strong multi-platform support for social and virtual training
- Wide deck is a plus for taller runners and those who prefer more lateral space
Cons:
- Likely priced as a higher mid-range or premium machine
- Less emphasis on ultra-compact storage compared to smaller folding models
BowFlex T6 Folding Treadmill
Summary: The BowFlex T6 offers many of the smart connectivity perks of the higher-end BowFlex models, but in a more mid-range package. With support for Peloton, Zwift, and JRNY, plus incline capability and the QuickDial system, it’s a strong option if you want serious social running features without jumping to a premium price tier.
Feature Highlights:
- Smart connectivity: Peloton, Zwift, JRNY
- QuickDial control system for easy speed/incline changes
- Folding design with incline capability
Pros:
- Solid balance of smart features and (likely) more approachable pricing than the T16/T9
- Good fit for users who alternate between virtual races and app-based coaching programs
Cons:
- Fewer high-end touches than the T16 (e.g., smaller screen or less hardware detail, based on positioning)
- Not as compact as ultralight folding treadmills
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
Summary: A smart folding treadmill that leans heavily into iFIT’s interactive training ecosystem. With a 20" × 55" belt, auto-adjusting incline and speed via global workouts, and strong integration with streaming sessions, the T 6.5 S is a great choice if you see virtual races as part of a broader coaching and content experience.
Feature Highlights:
- Smart folding treadmill
- 20" × 55" belt
- Auto-adjusting incline and speed via iFIT on-demand global workouts
- Designed for interactive, streamed sessions and classes
Pros:
- Excellent match for runners who want structured iFIT coaching plus virtual routes
- Automatic adjustment deepens the immersive feel during virtual runs
Cons:
- Focused on iFIT; less mention of third-party platforms like Zwift
- Belt is slightly shorter than the Feier TM1’s 57" length, which heavier striders may notice
ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill
Summary: The ProForm Carbon TL is a sensible, space-saving option for turning your living room into a virtual class or racing hub. With iFIT connectivity and a built-in tablet holder, it’s easy to pair with your favorite apps and content, though the experience depends heavily on your own device rather than an integrated display.
Feature Highlights:
- SpaceSaver folding design
- iFIT connectivity for interactive training
- Built-in tablet holder and 5" display
- Works for both walking and running
Pros:
- Strong ecosystem via iFIT for guided, global, and social runs
- SpaceSaver design is well-suited for shared living spaces
Cons:
- More reliant on your own tablet or phone for a premium visual experience
- Less detail provided on high-end speed/incline specs compared with premium models
UREVO Foldi 3S Treadmill
Summary: A compact, quiet folding treadmill that aims to do a bit of everything: adjustable incline, app access, and a 2.5 HP motor in a space-conscious package. For virtual race fans in small apartments or home offices, it’s an appealing compromise between tech features and simple, everyday usability.
Feature Highlights:
- Compact folding treadmill
- Adjustable incline
- App access for guided workouts
- Quiet 2.5 HP motor
- Designed for home or office use
Pros:
- Strong space-saving design with enough power for regular cardio
- Quiet operation fits shared spaces and office setups
Cons:
- Less explicitly focused on immersive virtual racing than Zwift/iFIT-centric models
- Limited detail on belt size and high-speed performance
Horizon Fitness T101 Connect Treadmill
Summary: A compact, foldable treadmill with Bluetooth speakers and a device holder. The T101 Connect is designed for space-conscious runners who prefer to bring their own apps, classes, and virtual race experiences via phone or tablet.
Feature Highlights:
- Compact, foldable design
- Bluetooth speakers
- Device holder
- Compatible with apps for guided workouts
Pros:
- Good choice for smaller homes needing a straightforward, connected treadmill
- Bluetooth audio and device holder make it easy to use virtually any running app
Cons:
- Less specialized for high-intensity virtual race training compared to larger, more powerful models
- Fewer detailed specs given on belt length, incline range, and performance
NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
Summary: An entry-friendly smart treadmill focused on iFIT compatibility and “real results” home fitness. The T Series 5 offers virtual coaching and global courses but positions itself more as an accessible training platform than a hardcore racer’s machine.
Feature Highlights:
- Smart treadmill with iFIT compatibility
- Virtual coaching and global courses
- Durable engineering and solid reviews (as positioned) for home fitness
Pros:
- Strong on-ramp to iFIT’s virtual and social training ecosystem
- Good for new runners exploring virtual races and classes
Cons:
- More entry-level; may not satisfy advanced runners seeking max performance specs
- Less technical detail around belt size, top speed, and incline in the provided info
Fitrx Velocity Folding Treadmill
Summary: A budget-conscious home treadmill that balances performance and price, with incline and an LED console for tracking real-time metrics. It can handle regular training and casual virtual runs, but it’s less feature-rich for deeply immersive social running than the top-ranked options.
Feature Highlights:
- Folding treadmill with incline
- LED console for real-time metrics
- Positioned as a balance of performance and price
- Suitable for regular training and casual virtual runs
Pros:
- Accessible choice for those on tighter budgets
- Metrics display and incline make it viable for structured workouts
Cons:
- No specific mention of major virtual platforms (Zwift, iFIT, JRNY, etc.)
- Fewer smart features and integrations than higher-ranked competitors
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Features | Price Range | Ideal For | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill | 20"×57" belt, 11.2 mph, 12% incline, 36 programs + 3 custom, 6 shock pads, Bluetooth, speakers, wireless charging, Zwift/Kinomap/Anyrun compatible, fully folding | Mid-range; often discounted from $1,399.99 to ~$899.99 | Virtual race and social running enthusiasts wanting a compact but serious training machine | Best overall balance of app connectivity, running performance, and space-saving design |
| BowFlex T16 Folding Treadmill | 16" HD touchscreen, JRNY/Peloton/Zwift support, 15% motorized incline, QuickDial controls, folding | Premium | Runners wanting a studio-like, screen-first experience | Deeply immersive smart ecosystem with broad app compatibility |
| Yesoul T1M Plus Smart Treadmill | 21.5" HD screen, multimedia casting, dual speakers, real-time stat tracking, foldable | Mid- to premium | Class lovers and social runners who prioritize a big built-in screen | Huge integrated display for live/virtual classes and races |
| BowFlex T9 Treadmill | Wide running surface, fast inclines, Kinomap/Zwift/JRNY compatibility | Upper mid-range to premium | Virtual runners mixing scenic runs, structured plans, and social races | Wide deck plus multi-platform app support |
| BowFlex T6 Folding Treadmill | Smart connectivity (Peloton/Zwift/JRNY), QuickDial controls, incline, folding | Mid-range | Runners who want robust smart features at a more approachable price | Strong social-running feature set without full premium pricing |
| NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill | 20"×55" belt, iFIT with auto-adjust incline/speed, smart folding design | Mid-range | iFIT-focused runners wanting auto-adjust global workouts | Auto-adjusting iFIT sessions for highly immersive training |
| ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill | SpaceSaver folding, iFIT connectivity, 5" display, built-in tablet holder | Entry to mid-range | Runners who prefer using their own tablet for virtual races and classes | Space-saving design with iFIT and flexible device use |
| UREVO Foldi 3S Treadmill | Compact folding, adjustable incline, app access, quiet 2.5 HP motor | Entry to lower mid-range | Apartment and office users wanting basic app-linked cardio | Strong space-saving design with a quiet, capable motor |
| Horizon Fitness T101 Connect Treadmill | Compact foldable frame, Bluetooth speakers, device holder, app compatibility | Entry to mid-range | Space-conscious runners who bring their own apps and content | Simple, flexible setup for BYO-device social running |
| NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill | iFIT-compatible smart treadmill, virtual coaching and global courses, durable build | Entry-friendly | Newer runners entering virtual races and structured training | Accessible gateway into the iFIT virtual ecosystem |
| Fitrx Velocity Folding Treadmill | Folding design, incline, LED console with real-time metrics, value-focused | Budget | Casual runners and walkers who occasionally join virtual runs | Strong price/performance balance for basic training |
Buying Tips
- Prioritize platform compatibility.
Decide where you’ll do most of your virtual and social running—Zwift, Kinomap, iFIT, JRNY, Peloton, or a mix.- If you’re Zwift-focused, the FED Fitness Feier TM1, BowFlex T16/T9/T6, and Yesoul T1M Plus are standout picks.
- If you lean on iFIT, look closely at NordicTrack and ProForm models.
- Check belt size and top speed.
For serious virtual races and interval workouts, look for:- Belt length around 55"–57" for comfortable running (the Feier TM1’s 20" × 57" is strong)
- Top speeds around or above 10–11 mph to handle sprints and tempo runs
- Consider incline range.
Virtual race courses and global runs often simulate hills. More incline (12–15%) gives more realism and training flexibility. - Match the form factor to your space.
- If you’re in a low-ceiling room or tight apartment, prioritize fully folding designs and lower deck heights like the Feier TM1.
- If you have more space, integrated screens (Yesoul, BowFlex T16) deliver a more immersive experience.
- Decide between built-in screen vs. BYO device.
- Built-in HD screens are plug-and-play but add cost and bulk.
- Device-holder models (Feier TM1, Horizon T101, ProForm Carbon TL) let you upgrade screens over time with your own tablet or phone.
- Weigh warranty and support.
Clear warranties and support—like the Feier TM1’s 30-day money-back guarantee, 1-year warranty, and lifetime technical support—provide peace of mind when you’re training for big virtual events.
Conclusion
For virtual race and social running enthusiasts in 2026, the FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill rises to the top thanks to its well-balanced mix of Zwift/Kinomap connectivity, strong running specs, and a genuinely space-saving, home-friendly design.
If you want a more premium, screen-first experience, BowFlex and Yesoul offer deeply immersive alternatives. For those anchored in iFIT, NordicTrack and ProForm remain excellent choices, while more compact and budget-friendly models from UREVO, Horizon, and Fitrx cover lighter training needs.
Before you commit, clarify which apps you’ll use most, how hard you plan to train, and how much room you really have. Then check current prices and pick the treadmill that matches both your training plan and your living space.
Overview
Design & Features
Performance
Comparisons with Other Brands
Verdict
References
- FED Fitness Feier TM1 Fully Folding Treadmill
- NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
- NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
- ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill
- Yesoul T1M Plus Smart Treadmill
- UREVO Foldi 3S Treadmill
- BowFlex T16 Folding Treadmill
- BowFlex T6 Folding Treadmill
- BowFlex T9 Treadmill
- Horizon Fitness T101 Connect Treadmill
- Fitrx Velocity Folding Treadmill