Best Treadmill Mat (2024): 5 Options to Protect Your Floors

I like to think of purchasing a treadmill mat as a way to protect your assets. Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, no one wants to scratch their floors. Say you forget to put down a mat before positioning your new cardio machine on the floor to use it. Six months later, you find deep divots in your hardwood or a chunk of carpet astray. You may end up not getting your security deposit back (the horror), or are left with a hefty bill to fix the issue.

Only you can prevent floor damage (Smokey Bear reference, if bears liked treadmills), which is why you need the best treadmill mat. Whether you’re looking for a cheap option or a mat suitable for carpet, we have you covered with our five top picks. 

Gym Mats for Gym Rats

Although actual rats would probably appreciate a cushioned treadmill mat to lay their heads down on at night, we’re shockingly not here to help rodents. Our team of expert product testers and reviewers are committed to helping (human) gym rats find the best equipment for them. And it’s safe to say we really know fitness––we’re former college athletes, certified personal trainers, and nutrition coaches. 

5 Best Treadmill Mats

• Best Treadmill Mat Overall: SuperMats Solid P.V.C. Mat for Treadmill
• Best Budget Treadmill Mat: ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat
• Best Treadmill Mat for Carpet: Sunny Health & Fitness Home Gym Foam Floor Protector Mat
• Best Treadmill Mat for Light Machines: Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat
• Best Treadmill Mat for Heavy Machines: BalanceFrom High Density Treadmill Equipment Mat

Best Treadmill Mat Overall: SuperMats Solid P.V.C. Mat for Treadmill

Good for: A long treadmill that needs a tough/durable mat

Best Treadmill Mat Overall

SuperMats Solid P.V.C. Mat

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Product Highlights

• 90” L x 36” W
• Vinyl mat for protecting floors from exercise equipment 
• Great for larger machines 
• Protects floors and prolongs machine life

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Long enough for most cardio equipment at 90”
• Non-slip surface
• Made in USA
• Hefty 23-lb mat

Cons

• Thin at .13” thick
• Reviews state it smells like chemicals at first
• Reviewers didn’t feel it protected their carpet

Bottom Line

The SuperMats Solid PVC mat is a large mat that will likely fit under even the largest exercise equipment. If you have carpet flooring, you may want to purchase a thicker mat.

If you’re looking for a lengthy mat that’ll fit comfortably underneath your large treadmill, you’ll likely enjoy the SuperMats Solid P.V.C Mat. Available for purchase on Amazon, this 90-inch-by-36-inch treadmill mat will work well for bigger treadmills, such as the NordicTrack EXP 7i. 

I was impressed by the durable vinyl material and didn’t notice any denting at all from my treadmill after moving the machine. This gives me the impression that the mat won’t rip easily, even in higher-pressure spots. 

Unlike some of the other treadmill mats I tested, the SuperMats didn’t have to be flattened out with heavy books––it came out of the package ready to be used. 

However, it is worth noting that this mat has some sort of black, powdery residue, which reminds me quite a bit of what you’d find on the Rogue Monster bands. It feels like a combination of dust and chalk, and left my fingertips discolored. 

Luckily, a damp paper towel was able to remedy the situation fairly quickly. If you purchase this mat, make sure to give it a good wipe down before bringing it into your home––I’d hate for a light-colored rug or your carpet to be stained.

Best Budget Treadmill Mat: ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat

Good for: Individuals trying to save a few bucks

Best Budget Treadmill Mat

ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat

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Product Highlights

• Interlocking puzzle mat 
• Half-inch thick
• High density EVA foam mat 
• Non-skid texture

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Covers large area at affordable price
• Can arrange tiles however you’d like
• Thicker than competitors at a half-inch thick

Cons

• Pieces pull apart easily
• Reviewers share not ideal for exercises with a lot of movement
• Very slippery when wet according to reviewers

Bottom Line

ProSource Puzzle Exercise mats can cover a large area at an affordable price; however, they will might easily.

I’m not sure about you, but when I was a child, I had large, connective foam puzzle pieces as my playroom floor. Now as a grown woman, I feel like my playroom (ahem, my home gym) deserves a similar treatment. With the ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat, you, too, can relive happy childhood memories (sans the color). 

The ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat is a budget-friendly option to stick underneath your treadmill. At just $26, it’s less of an investment than a jumbo candle from Bath and Body Works. Also available on Amazon, the ProsourceFit Puzzle Exercise Mat includes six pieces, which can be connected to suit whatever shape you want. If you have a large treadmill, I’d recommend purchasing a second set in order to cover more ground.

At half-an-inch-thick, this exercise mat will help you dampen some of the unwanted sounds that may come with a treadmill workout. I was also impressed with the lifetime warranty that comes with the ProsourceFit mat. If yours happens to rip, ProsourceFit will send you a replacement set.

I will say, I was slightly confused by some of the outer pieces of the ProsourceFit mat. You’re able to take off the edging (in the event that you want to add additional pieces) and put it back on. I did notice some of the pieces didn’t quite fit right, but I’m assuming this may have been a quality-control issue. 

Best Treadmill Mat for Carpet: Sunny Health and Fitness Home Gym Foam Floor Protector Mat

Good for: Someone with a carpeted home 

Best Treadmill Mat for Carpet

Sunny Health & Fitness Home Gym Foam Floor Protector Mat

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Product Highlights

• PVC foam mat for protecting floor from cardio equipment 
• Available in 4 sizes: XS–L
• Non-slip and water-resistant

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Available in 4 sizes
• Non-slip design
• 1-year warranty

Cons

• Very slippery when wet
• Thin at .16” thick
• Users experienced ripping when moving equipment into place or adjusting equipment

Bottom Line

The Sunny Health and Fitness Foam Floor Protector Mat is available in multiple sizes to fit a variety of exercise equipment. Users had trouble with the mat ripping when placing their equipment on the mat.

You know what? I’ll say it: I enjoy carpeting. It feels nice on my feet and my dogs like it. For those of you who agree with me (or are at the mercy of whatever your landlord likes), you’ll want to find the best treadmill mat for carpet. In this case, I’d recommend the Sunny Health and Fitness Home Gym Foam Floor Protector Mat. Phew, that was a lot, but luckily, the price sure isn’t. For just around $34, you can pick up your own Sunny Health and Fitness treadmill mat from Amazon.

I tested this mat out under my Sunny Health and Fitness Under-Desk treadmill, and was pleased at how stable it felt. I didn’t feel like the machine’s deck was wobbly or unsupported, even though the mat was resting on my carpet as I walked. Although I chose the medium-sized mat, there are a variety of other sizes to choose from to fit your personal treadmill.

This mat is also very lightweight, so you’ll be able to move it around without a care in the world. However, it is worth noting that this mat needs to be flattened by a heavy object (or two) before being used, otherwise the edges will curl up. Shoutout to the random college textbooks I used—I knew you’d come in handy again some day!

Best Treadmill Mat for Light Machines: Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat

Good for: Under-desk treadmills or other light, foldable cardio machines

Best Treadmill Mat for Light Machines

Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat

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Product Highlights

• Professional quality mat designed to go under Bowflex cardio equipment 
• Rubber-based material 
• Fits TreadClimber models: TC200, TC100, TC20, TC10 and TC5 machines
• Fits all Max Trainer models
• Fits VeloCore and C6 bike

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Free shipping within the contiguous U.S.
• Protects flooring
• Increases stability of cardio equipment

Cons

• Short design at 57” long
• Expensive at $99
• Customer reviews state the mat rips easily

Bottom Line

The Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat is a short and expensive mat that may fit your machine. Reviewers have also said it rips easily.

Not all of us need a humongous treadmill mat, which is where the Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat comes in handy. This compact mat fits below a light, under-desk treadmill like a WalkingPad, a REDLIRO, or a UREVO 2-in-1. Plus, when you aren’t using the Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat, it can be easily rolled up and stored underneath a bed or within a closet.

Even with the occasional bead of sweat hitting the mat, I was pleased at how simple it was to wipe off with a cloth. On the Bowflex website, it also mentions this mat fits well under some of their other cardio machines, such as the Bowflex VeloCore or any of the TreadClimbers.

The slightly pebbled texture gives this mat a bit of grip, which is always a good thing when it comes to keeping a treadmill in place. Besides working well on harder floors, this mat also was just fine on carpet.

It is worth noting that you’ll need to flatten this mat out before shoving it underneath your treadmill. I will warn you––this mat is SHARP. The edges of the Bowflex Cardio Machine Mat are clearly reinforced and actually gave me a (paper?) cut on my pointer finger. 

Best Treadmill Mat for Heavy Machines: BalanceFrom High Density Treadmill Equipment Mat

Good for: NordicTrack treadmills or other particularly heavy cardio machines

Best Treadmill Mat for Heavy Machines

BalanceFrom High Density Treadmill Exercise Bike Equipment Mat

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Product Highlights

• PVC mat for protecting flooring from heavy-duty cardio equipment 
• 78” Lx 36” W
• Available in regular or foldable design  
• Will fit most large cardio machines
• Absorbs vibrations and noise caused by cardio equipment

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Available in regular and foldable design
• Anti-slip pattern on mat
• Size is large enough for most cardio equipment

Cons

• Thickness not listed
• Not durable according to reviewers
• Reviewers experienced tearing and puncturing of ma

Bottom Line

The BalanceForm High Density Equipment Mat is a large mat that will fit most cardio equipment. Unfortunately, many users experienced the mat ripping or their cardio machines punching holes through the mat.

Is your treadmill really freaking heavy? If it is, you’ll need to get your paws on the BalanceFrom High Density Treadmill Equipment Mat. The polyvinyl material feels durable and cushioned without being overly stiff. 

Besides working well for underneath a treadmill, this mat would also be suitable for underneath a rowing machine, elliptical, or exercise bike. Plus, this $30 mat has a two-year warranty and rolls flat immediately after being unboxed (no heavy college textbooks needed).

I was intrigued by the mat’s stickiness. I’m not sure if this is intentional, or if it’ll come off with time. I attempted to clean it off with a wet paper towel, but didn’t see much improvement on the sticky factor. On the plus side, maybe it’s the key to keeping your heavy treadmill nice and centered on the mat. 

It is also worth noting that this mat doesn’t seem to dampen noise at all. If you’re looking to protect your floors, you’ll love this. However, if you’re looking for a mat to lessen sounds coming from your treadmill, this won’t help much.

Other Treadmill Mats We Researched

BestXD Treadmill Mat Pads: If you’re looking for thick, heavy-duty rubber to live underneath your treadmill’s high-contact areas, this is a good pick for you. Unlike the other treadmill mats I’ve mentioned, the BestXD Treadmill Mat is actually six small rubber mats to stick under the points of your machine that would scratch the floor. I think it’s an interesting concept, but I personally wouldn’t trust small chunks of rubber to protect thousands of dollars of flooring.

Amazon Basics High Density Exercise Equipment and Treadmill Mat: A lot of people sleep on Amazon Basics, but they actually make some excellent products. This treadmill mat appears to be no exception (although it does look a touch thin). You can choose between two different sizes and even get a pair of dumbbells with your mat if you wish.

Marcy Fitness Equipment Mat and Floor Protector for Treadmills: This foam-based floor mat comes in two different lengths, which is ideal for people with both small and large treadmills. I will say, the coating on the mat does not look like it is anti-slip, so I would worry slightly about putting gym equipment on top.

How We Picked and Tested

When testing any product, we ask ourselves a variety of relevant questions in order to give our readers the most information possible. Here are the things we asked ourselves while testing a bevy of treadmill mats: 

• Price: How expensive is the mat? How does this compare to other heavy-duty mats?
• Works under: Does the mat work best under a folding treadmill, elliptical, exercise bike, or rowing machine? Would it be best under another type of workout equipment?
• Thickness: Is this a thick mat? What is the cushioning like? Will dents pop up under heavier pieces of equipment? Will it help with reducing noise or give floor protection?
• Foldable: Can the mat be folded when not in use or is it more similar to gym flooring that cannot be folded?
• Dimensions: What are the dimensions of the mat? Would it work under most regular-sized treadmills? Can you purchase the mat in different sizes?
• Warranty: Are there any warranties on the treadmill mat?
• Material: What is the treadmill mat made of? Does the mat have a textured surface? Is it made out of recycled rubber or high-density PVC? Can it be cleaned with a damp cloth? Does the mat have interlocking tiles or a non-slip surface? Is it made of a high-density foam? Is it water-resistant? 
• Useful for: Is the treadmill mat best under hardwood floors or carpet? Will it work on a concrete floor?

Benefits of Treadmill Mats

“Treadmill mats are one of those things that aren’t necessary but are nice to have and can provide many benefits to your home gym space,” certified personal trainer and GGR writer Anthony O’Reilly explains. 

“One of the biggest reasons why you should consider a mat is they can protect your home gym flooring. Treadmills are heavy and have been known to cause indentations, but the mat can also protect the flooring from the vibrations caused by your feet repeatedly hitting the tread.”

“Quality mats can also reduce the noise created by a treadmill, which is especially good if you’re living in an apartment,” Anthony admits. “They also help keep treadmills stable, which is not only good for the machine, but for the person on it as well.”

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Treadmill Mats

Luckily for you, finding a decent treadmill mat isn’t rocket science. Check out the top three things I’d keep in mind when making your purchasing decision:

Price

As with anything else, prices can vary wildly with treadmill mats. Decide what your budget is ahead of time (and stick with it) or take advantage of any financing options available. However, it is reasonable to expect to pay between $25-$100 for a good treadmill mat.

Dimensions

If you already own a treadmill, it is important to measure it before purchasing a mat. You’ll want to make sure that the dimensions of your machine will work with any option you’re considering. Luckily, a lot of brands make the same mat in a few different sizes, so you’ll be able to choose what works best for you.

Thickness

Depending on if you want your treadmill mat for sound-dampening purposes or to protect your floors, you may choose a different mat thickness. If you want a treadmill mat that will reduce noise or thumping, choose a thicker option (in the size of about half-an-inch thick). 

Treadmill Mats FAQs

Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1

Caroline is a former NCAA D1 Women’s College Soccer player who also played in the WPSL, the second highest level of professional women’s soccer in the United States. Although soccer was her first love, Caroline eats, sleeps, and breathes all things fitness. She credits her high school’s football coach, Jason Estep, with teaching her how to properly use a barbell at 15 years old and inspiring an enduring love for strength training. Caroline is also a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. Content wise, Caroline has a background in Public Relations and previously worked in the Communication department at Appalachian State University. When Caroline isn’t writing or working out, she works with dachshund rescue groups and listens to way too many true crime podcasts.

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I like to think of purchasing a treadmill mat as a way to protect your assets. Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, no one wants to scratch their floors. Say you forget to put down a mat before positioning your new cardio machine on the floor to use it. Six months later, you find deep divots in your hardwood or a chunk of carpet astray. You may end up not getting your security deposit back (the horror),  » Read more about: Best Treadmill Mat (2024): 5 Options to Protect Your Floors  » Read more