If you live in an upstairs apartment or want to exercise on an upper floor of your house, installing a treadmill can be a challenge. Moving such a bulky piece of equipment upstairs can be physically demanding, and using it can create a great deal of noise for people on the floor below you. However, with some help, brute strength and a shock-absorbing treadmill mat, you can be on your way to reaching your fitness goals without disturbing your downstairs neighbors or roommates.
Step 1
Clear a path to the area where you want to install your treadmill. Remove all furniture and objects that might get in your way while you are moving the treadmill to minimize your chance of injury or damage.
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Step 2
Place a treadmill mat in the location where you want to put your treadmill. Treadmill mats reduce damage to your floor and absorb the vibration caused by a moving treadmill, significantly decreasing the amount of noise heard by anyone on the floor below you. You can buy a treadmill mat at major sporting goods retailers.
Step 3
Enlist the help of at least one other person. Treadmills are generally very heavy, and lifting a large item yourself can result in serious injury.
Step 4
Lift the treadmill's belt from the rear and fold it up toward the console until it locks into place. Tighten the locking knob or insert the locking pin on the underside of the belt if necessary. Methods for locking a treadmill vary by make and model; refer to your owner's manual if you are unsure of your treadmill's locking mechanism.
Step 5
Tilt the treadmill slightly back toward the floor and lift it off the ground from one end while another person lifts the other end. If your treadmill is still in the box, lift one end of the box while a second person lifts the opposite end.
Step 6
Lift the treadmill up the stairs one step at a time, pausing to rest when necessary. When taking a break, set either the upper or lower portion of the treadmill securely on a step and have at least one person steady the treadmill from the opposite side.
Step 7
Carry the treadmill to its intended location. Place it on top of the mat, unlock the belt and gently lower the belt to the floor. If you bought your treadmill new, assemble it on top of the mat according to the assembly instructions in your owner's manual.
Tip
The front portion of the treadmill contains most of the components and is the heaviest part of the machine; have the strongest person lift this portion of the treadmill.
Always stretch thoroughly before moving heavy objects and bend your knees to lift with your legs to minimize the chance of injury.
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