Moving an extremely heavy and bulky treadmill can be a dangerous task if not done properly, including bodily injuries to those moving the treadmill, and damage to the treadmill which is an expensive piece of exercise equipment. With a little planning and preparation, a treadmill can be safely relocated up a flight of stairs without any mishaps.
How to safely relocate a treadmill upstairs:
1. Clear a path
The first step in moving a treadmill is to clear a pathway. This step prevents anyone from tripping or accidentally slipping on a random object, causing an accident. Make sure to move any furniture that might be obstructing your path, including floor rugs or mats, and anything else that could potentially get in the way.
2. Pick a place
Once you’ve cleared a pathway to move the treadmill, make sure you have a solid location in mind to move the treadmill. The last thing you want to have happen is to finally get the treadmill moved upstairs, only to have to move it several more times while deciding on where it should go.
Once you choose a new place, set a treadmill mat down on the floor. This will protect your flooring from any damage from the weight of the treadmill.
3. Get some help
Make sure you enlist the help of at least one or two other capable lifters as treadmills are heavy and should not be attempted to lift or move without assistance. The front part of the treadmill console is the heaviest to lift, so make sure and use the strongest lifter for this portion of the treadmill. Alternatively, you could hire a moving company that performs in-home moves by the hour, like Cheap Movers Houston (15455 Point NW Blvd #728, Houston, TX 77095, (281) 936-0786).
4. Practice lifting
Before attempting actually to lift anything, it is a wise idea to practice lifting by bending your knees (not with your back) and getting into a comfortable and proper lifting position, making sure you have a tight grip on the treadmill. It is also a good idea to do some stretching exercises before lifting as well.
5. Lift from the belt
Lift the treadmill from the rear of the belt and fold towards the console, locking it in place. Some treadmills have a locking pin on the underside of the belt. For proper locking techniques, refer to the owner’s manual if necessary.
6. Tilt the treadmill
Gripping the treadmill from the console, gently tilt it back until the treadmill is on its wheels.
7. One step at a time
Carefully lift the treadmill one stair step at a time, making sure to pause and take breaks when necessary. Make sure that at least one person maintains a firm, secure grip on the treadmill the entire time.
8. Place on the mat
Once the treadmill is upstairs, it may be rolled to the new location. There should already be a mat on the ground where the treadmill is going to be placed. Once the treadmill is firmly on top of the mat, unlock the belt, then gently and carefully lower the belt to the ground.
Now that your treadmill is safe and secure in its new upstairs location, it is ready to be put to good use.