How to Adjust a Belt on a Treadmill

Last Updated: November 30, 2021

Like all types of machines, occasionally the belt will become loose. If you notice that the gap between the belt and the board are really close together or the belt seems to be slipping you should adjust it. A loose belt can affect your workout. Adjusting it can be quick and simple.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Adjusting while Treadmill On

1
Find the screws required to adjust the belt. Often they are located towards the back near the roller axle.^{[1]
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- Most treadmills use Hex screws. Hex screws have a six sided head and need an Allen Wrench or a hex key.
2
Turn the treadmill on. Adjust the speed to 3 miles (5 kilometers) or less.^{[2]
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3
Adjust the screws. If the belt needs loosening turn the screws clockwise. If the belt needs tightening turn the screws anticlockwise.^{[3]
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- Turn each screw no more than a quarter turn each time.
- Adjust each screw the same number of turns.
- If the belt needs centering to the right tighten the right screw.
- If the belt needs centering to the left tighten the left screw.
4
Keep adjusting until the belt does not slip and is in the center. It should be centered between the two boards and tightened until the belt does not slip.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Adjusting while Treadmill Off

1
Switch the treadmill off and unplug it from the wall.^{[4]
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2
Find the screws required to adjust the belt. Often they are located towards the back near the roller axle.
- Most treadmills use Hex screws. Hex screws have a six sided head and need an Allen Wrench or a hex key.
3
Adjust the screws. If the belt needs loosening turn the screws clockwise. If the belt needs tightening turn the screws anticlockwise.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Turn each screw no more than a quarter turn each time.
- Adjust each screw the same number of turns.
- If the belt needs centering to the right tighten the right screw.
- If the belt needs centering to the left tighten the left screw.
4
Plug in the treadmill and see if the belt needs adjusting.
5
Keep adjusting until the belt does not slip and is in the center. It should be centered between the two boards and tightened until the belt does not slip. Each time you adjust turn the treadmill off and unplug it. When you test the treadmill plug it in and turn it on.