When you’re a mom trying to juggle kids, house chores, and still sneak in a workout, the gym is often out of the question. That’s why I finally decided to invest in a treadmill for home, and after weeks of research (and way too much scrolling), I landed on the Sole F63 (2023 model) which I ordered directly from the brand’s Amazon store.
This isn’t just any treadmill, it’s one of the most recommended starter treadmills out there. And now that I’ve actually used it, let me give you the real scoop, mom-to-mom, no fancy jargon, just the truth.
About the Sole F63
The Sole F63 is Sole’s most affordable treadmill, but don’t let “entry-level” fool you. It’s still super sturdy and well-built. It has a 3.0 HP motor, 20” x 60” running deck, and a 325 lb weight limit, which makes it strong enough not just for walking, but for actual running too.
It comes with a 6.5” LCD console, Bluetooth speakers, heart rate monitoring, and even an incline that goes up to 15 levels. Basically, it’s not bare-bones like some budget treadmills, but it’s also not intimidating with too many buttons that you’ll never use.
My two weeks experience using this treadmill for home workouts
Day 1: Unboxed and assembled it with my husband. Heavy? Yes. But the instructions were straightforward. My first walk was 20 minutes. Felt smooth, no weird noises. I was relieved it wasn’t intimidating.
Day 2: Tried a 15-minute incline walk while sipping coffee. Honestly, I was sweating more than I expected. My calves and glutes already felt the burn.
Day 3: Took a rest day. Gotta pace yourself as a mom, right? But I watched the kids play while the treadmill was just standing there, folded, it’s really compact when not in use.
Day 4: Did a light jog for 10 minutes. The motor handled it fine, and the belt felt stable. My older kids were fascinated and kept asking if they could “race” me.
Day 5: Power walking with incline. I loved the 15% setting—it’s like hiking on a hill inside your living room. I could feel my heart rate up without needing to run.
Day 6: Short jog intervals. Alternated walking and jogging. Belt still smooth, treadmill quiet enough that the baby didn’t wake up from her nap.
Day 7: One week check-in: I could see how much more confident I was on the treadmill. I even started planning 20–25 minute sessions every day, fitting them around nap times and meals.
Week 2, Day 8-10: More jogging. Tried faster intervals at 8–10 mph. Treadmill still solid, no wobbling.
Week 2, Day 11-12: Increased incline during walks. Loved how my legs felt after these sessions. My husband even joined me for a 20-minute incline walk.
Week 2, Day 13: Quick 15-minute morning walk. Noticed my stamina improving already.
Week 2, Day 14: Rest day, but I reflected on how easy it’s become to fit workouts into my day. The treadmill is now a part of my routine, not a chore.
By the end of two weeks, I was hooked. The treadmill fits seamlessly into my life, even with three kids, and I could already feel the difference in energy and mood.
Observations
- The tablet holder works well and the speakers are plenty loud. Guess that is because the treadmill is pretty quiet. The fan is not so great, so I plugged in a portable fan.
- The treadmill’s console is functional but basic. It lacks advanced features like a touchscreen or integrated workout programs.
- While the 60-inch deck is standard, taller individuals might find it slightly restrictive during high-speed runs.
Key Specs of the Sole F63
- Motor: 3.0 HP
- Speed Range: 0.5 – 12 mph
- Incline: 0 – 15 levels
- Running Deck: 20” x 60”
- Weight Limit: 325 lbs
- Foldable: Yes
- Warranty: Lifetime on frame and motor, 3 years on deck and electronics
Price
The 2023 Sole F63 usually sits around $1,199 – $1,299, though sales can dip just under $1,000. For a treadmill with a lifetime warranty, that’s a solid investment for home workouts.
Is the Sole F63 Good for Running?
Yes! The 60” deck and strong motor make it suitable for running, jogging, and walking. That said, if you’re a serious marathon runner doing intense training every day, you might want the upgraded Sole F80 or F85. For casual or moderate runners, this treadmill is perfect.
Sole Treadmill Comparison Chart
| Model | Motor | Deck Size | Weight Limit | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sole F63 | 3.0 HP | 20” x 60” | 325 lbs | $1,199–$1,299 | Walking, jogging, light running |
| Sole F65 | 3.25 HP | 22” x 60” | 350 lbs | $1,499–$1,699 | Runners who want more power |
| Sole F80 | 3.5 HP | 22” x 60” | 350 lbs | $1,799–$1,999 | Serious runners needing durability |
| Sole F85 | 4.0 HP | 22” x 60” | 400 lbs | $2,299–$2,499 | Heavy-duty running, large households |
| Sole TT8 | 4.0 HP | 22” x 60” | 400 lbs | $2,799+ | Commercial-grade, advanced runners |
Pros and Cons of Sole F63
Pros
- Strong, reliable motor
- Folds up to save space
- Sturdy frame, no “cheap” feel
- Great incline range
- No pricey subscription required
Cons
- Heavy to move during assembly
- Screen is basic (not a flashy touchscreen)
- Can feel a little plain compared to techy treadmills
Better Alternatives
While I love my Sole F63, not every mom’s house, budget, or workout style is the same. Here are a few alternatives with a little “mom perspective” baked in:
- NordicTrack Commercial 1750 – The “fancy mom treadmill.” Big touchscreen, scenic workouts, and auto-adjusting incline/decline. Great if you get bored easily and love interactive classes. Downside? Pricier and comes with a subscription.
- Horizon 7.0 AT – The “nap-time sprint” treadmill. Lighter, responsive, and great for short bursts when you only have 20 minutes to yourself. Compact too, so it won’t swallow your living room.
- Sole F80 – The F63’s sturdier big sibling. More powerful motor and a stronger frame. Perfect for taller parents or anyone training for longer races.
- ProForm Pro 2000 – The “fitness-class-at-home” treadmill. Has incline and decline plus access to iFit workouts. Great if you want trainers to guide you through every session.
- LifeSpan TR3000i – The “tight-space” treadmill. Smaller footprint, folds up nicely, and still strong enough for daily walking or light jogging.
Mom Tips for Using the Sole F63
1. Sneak in workouts during nap time
If your little ones are napping, that’s the perfect 20–30 minute window for a brisk walk or short jog. The F63 is quiet enough that even light running won’t wake them, so you can finally get some “me time” without interruptions.
2. Use the incline for a faster calorie burn
Even if you don’t feel like running, cranking up the incline to 10–15% turns a simple walk into a serious fat-burning session. I often sip coffee and power walk uphill—feels like a mini mountain hike in my living room!
3. Set mini goals
I like using the console to track distance or calories for the week. Even small daily goals, like a 1-mile walk before breakfast, add up over time. It’s motivating when you see progress, especially with a busy schedule.
4. Keep kids entertained nearby
Sometimes my older kids join me for “walk races” or watch a show from the side while I walk. It keeps them busy and lets me exercise without guilt.
5. Make use of foldable design
The F63 folds easily when not in use, so it doesn’t take over your living space. Perfect for small apartments or shared rooms.
6. Play music or podcasts
I pair my phone via Bluetooth to the treadmill speakers. It makes the workout fun and keeps my mind busy while my body moves.
7. Clean regularly
Even though the treadmill is low-maintenance, I wipe down the deck and console weekly to keep dust and crumbs away. Keeps it smooth and quiet.
8. Adjust slowly
If you’re just starting postpartum or getting back into fitness, don’t jump straight to high speed or incline. Gradually increase your intensity—your knees, back, and stamina will thank you.
9. Use interval sessions
Even 1–2 minutes of jogging followed by walking boosts calorie burn and keeps things interesting. It’s perfect for moms who only have 15–20 minutes to spare.
10. Celebrate small wins
Even a 10-minute incline walk counts! Celebrate that, and don’t stress about perfection. Fitness is cumulative, and the Sole F63 makes it easy to keep moving every day.
FAQ (Mom Edition)
Q: Is the Sole F63 treadmill loud?
A: Nope! It’s surprisingly quiet. The motor hums, but your footsteps make more noise than the treadmill itself. I can use mine while the kids are watching cartoons without them complaining.
Q: Will it fit in a small house or apartment?
A: Yes, but it’s not “tiny.” It folds up vertically to save space, but it won’t slide under a bed. If space is super tight, something like the LifeSpan TR3000i might be easier.
Q: Can I use it while the baby is sleeping?
A: Honestly, yes. I’ve walked and jogged during nap time with no issues. Just keep in mind if you’re sprinting hard, the footfall sound is louder than walking.
Q: Is it easy to move when I’m cleaning?
A: For its size, yes. It has wheels, so you can tilt and roll it. But it is heavy, so don’t plan on moving it every single day.
Q: Do I need a subscription to use it?
A: Not at all! Everything works without extra fees. If you want, you can connect to the free Sole+ app, but it’s totally optional.
Q: Is it worth the price?
A: Definitely. For under $1,200, you’re getting a treadmill that feels commercial-grade and doesn’t nag you with monthly charges.
Q: Is it good for postpartum moms starting slow?
A: Absolutely. You can begin with gentle walks, add incline as you get stronger, and move up to jogs and runs at your own pace. It grows with you.
Q: Is it worth the price?
A: 100%! A sturdy, reliable treadmill that lasts years, under $1,300.
Final Thoughts
The 2023 Sole F63 is exactly what I hoped it would be—a reliable, no-nonsense treadmill that helps me sneak in workouts at home without stress. As a mom, I love that I can walk, jog, or run while keeping an eye on the kids, without paying for gym memberships or babysitters.
If you want a sturdy, affordable treadmill that focuses on performance over flashy features, the Sole F63 is a true winner. It’s the practical, steady treadmill that keeps showing up for you—just like a good friend.
While you’re here, read my review of this vibration workout tool ‘Nautilus Vibration Plate‘