Feb 27, 2026 || by John Alfred Calimquim

Is a Treadmill in Miles or KM? How to Check & Switch Units (UK Guide)

If you've ever stepped onto a treadmill and wondered whether the numbers on the display mean miles or kilometres, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions among both first-time treadmill owners and gym-goers switching between machines. Getting it right matters, because a "6.0" reading means a very different pace depending on which unit your treadmill is set to.

This guide explains how to know if your treadmill is in miles or km, how UK treadmills are usually configured, and how to switch between mph and kph in a few taps, plus which unit makes more sense for your training goals.

Are UK Treadmills in Miles or KM?

There's no single answer, because it depends on the model. Most modern treadmills, including UK models, are built to display both mph and kph, and you can switch between them in the settings.

Some machines default to miles because the UK still uses miles for road distances, while others, especially models designed with a global audience in mind, default to kilometres. Either way, almost every treadmill sold in the UK lets you switch freely between the two, so you're never locked into one system.

How to Tell If Your Treadmill Is in Miles or KM

If you're unsure which unit your treadmill is currently using, here's how to check.

Check the Display

Look at the speed or distance readout while the treadmill is running. If it shows "MPH," your treadmill is set to miles. If it shows "KM/H," it's using kilometres. This is the fastest way to confirm your current setting.

Check the Console Settings

Most treadmills have a touchscreen or button console where you can adjust preferences. Tap the speed or distance display, or look for a settings icon, then find an option labelled "Units," "Distance Units," or "Measurement Units." From there you can toggle between miles and kilometres.

Check the Owner's Manual

If the setting isn't obvious on your display, your treadmill's manual will explain exactly where to find it, along with how to switch other measurements like body weight (kg/lbs).

How to Switch Between Miles and KM on a Treadmill

Once you've located the units setting, switching is usually a one-tap process:

Open the settings or units menu on your console.
Select "Distance Units" or "Measurement Units."
Choose "MI" for miles or "KM" for kilometres.
Confirm the change, most treadmills update the display instantly.

Switching units doesn't affect your actual speed, distance, or calories burned; it simply changes how that data is displayed, so you can track your progress in whichever system feels most natural.

Miles vs KM: Which Should You Use?

The right unit really comes down to personal preference and your training goals.

Benefits of Using Kilometres

More frequent feedback – A kilometre is shorter than a mile (about 0.62 miles), so you hit distance markers more often, which can help keep you motivated.
Easier pacing – Shorter splits make it simpler to fine-tune your pace during intervals.
Race-day alignment – Popular race distances like 5K and 10K are measured in kilometres, so training in km makes it easier to compare your times globally.
Simpler maths – The metric system's base-10 structure makes mental calculations faster.

Benefits of Using Miles

Familiarity – In the UK, road signs and everyday distances are still measured in miles, so it can feel more intuitive.
Fewer splits to track – For long events like half marathons, tracking miles instead of more frequent km splits can feel more manageable.
A bigger sense of achievement – Because a mile covers more ground than a kilometre, reaching each mile marker can feel like a more meaningful milestone.

Many runners switch between the two depending on what they're training for, so don't feel like you have to commit to one system permanently.

Thinking About a Treadmill Upgrade? These Are the Best Picks

	JT31 Walking Pad with Incline	JT52 Walking Pad with Handrails & Incline
Price	£107.99	£137.99
Motor	2.5 HP (1.86 kW) Quiet Motor	2.5 HP Quiet Motor
Speed Range	0.97–6.12 km/h (0.61–3.81 mph)	1–10 km/h (0.6–6.2 mph)
Max User Weight	120 kg (265 lbs)	120 kg (265 lbs)
Incline	Manual, up to 15°	Manual, up to 15°
Modes	Work, Walk, Jog, Climb	Work, Walk, Run
Noise Level	<45 dB	<45 dB
Running Surface	38 × 99 cm	38 × 94 cm
Product Size	116 × 48.5 × 10.6 cm	119 × 56 × 10 cm
Packaging Size	123 × 56.5 × 12.5 cm	131 × 62 × 12 cm
Net Weight	17 kg	20 kg
Display	LED (distance, speed, time, calories)	LED (distance, speed, time, calories)
Remote Control	Yes	Yes
Highlights	Ultra-compact, fits under sofa/bed, quiet motor	Handrails for extra stability, foldable, higher top speed

Both models switch between mph and kph directly on the console, so you can train in whichever unit suits you.

FAQs

Will changing units affect my speed, distance, or calories burned?

No. Changing between miles and kilometres only changes how the data is displayed, your actual workout output stays exactly the same.

Are treadmill workouts in miles easier to compare with outdoor running apps?

If your running app tracks in miles, setting your treadmill to miles makes it easier to compare indoor and outdoor sessions and keep your pacing consistent.

How many miles can you put on a treadmill?

Treadmills are built for long-term use and can handle thousands of miles over their lifetime. The exact lifespan depends on the model, maintenance, and how often it's used.