The Best Domestic Treadmills Under £800 in the UK

A treadmill is one of the most versatile pieces of fitness kit you can buy for your home. 

But you don’t need to spend thousands to get a good one. 

In fact, there are plenty of solid, reliable treadmills available in the UK for under £800 — perfect for runners, walkers, and everyone in between.

Here’s our roundup of the best options, plus tips on how to choose the right machine for your lifestyle, budget, and space.

Top Picks Under £800

Proform Carbon TLS – £799

If you want something that feels close to gym quality but stays just under the £800 mark, this is it. The Carbon TLS offers incline settings, a decent running deck, and a foldable design. It’s a brilliant choice for regular runners who want durability without overspending.

Run500 Smart Folding Motorised Incline Treadmill – around £700

Incline training usually means spending more — but the Run500 delivers a motorised incline at a mid-range price. It folds neatly away, making it a smart buy for anyone who likes to mix up their workouts with hill runs or interval training.

Volta VT10 Folding Treadmill – around £499

Affordable and compact, the VT10 is perfect if you’re mainly walking or doing light jogs. It’s foldable and suits smaller homes or those on a tighter budget.

WalkingPad R1 Pro – around £549

If you’re short on space, the R1 Pro is a game-changer. It folds almost flat and can slide under a sofa or bed. Designed for walking and light jogging, it’s ideal for home workers who want to stay active during the day.

Pro Fitness T3000C Folding Treadmill – around £599

This model sits comfortably in the middle ground: not too basic, not too advanced. It offers incline settings, a decent deck size, and folds away when not in use. A good family treadmill for mixed levels of activity.

HOMCOM Folding Treadmill – around £119

A no-frills, entry-level treadmill that gets you moving without draining your bank account. Great for beginners who want a simple, foldable machine for walking or light jogging.

Dripex Walking Pad – around £95

For the ultimate budget option, the Dripex is a slim, compact walking pad. It won’t suit runners, but it’s brilliant for increasing your step count, walking while working, or gentle exercise at home.

Best Pick by Scenario

Still not sure which treadmill is right for you? Here’s a quick guide based on how you’ll use it:

Best for runners: Proform Carbon TLS — sturdy, durable, and built for higher speeds.

Best for varied workouts: Run500 Smart — the motorised incline keeps things interesting.

Best for families: Pro Fitness T3000C — a balanced all-rounder everyone can use.

Best for small homes: WalkingPad R1 Pro — folds away almost flat, perfect for flats and shared spaces.

Best value all-rounder: Volta VT10 — a strong choice if you want features without overspending.

Best for beginners: HOMCOM Folding Treadmill — affordable and simple to use.

Best for desk walking or gentle activity: Dripex Walking Pad — compact and budget-friendly.

Buying Tips for First-Time Treadmill Owners

Before you hit checkout, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Measure your space: treadmills are bulkier than they look online. Don’t forget ceiling height if you plan to use incline.

Check the noise level: even quiet treadmills create some thump. A treadmill mat helps absorb sound if you live in a flat.

Know the weight limit: always pick a treadmill that exceeds the heaviest user’s weight for safety and durability.

Decide on your main use: walkers don’t need the same machine as serious runners. Match the treadmill to your goals.

Consider folding vs fixed: foldable treadmills save space but can be less sturdy for daily running.

Look at warranties: established brands often include better coverage on motors and frames than budget models.

Check for safety features: a safety key or auto-stop is essential, especially if kids or pets are around.

Budget for extras: a mat, belt lubricant, or even a subscription to training apps like iFit can improve your experience.

Final  Walking Word

Whether you’re a beginner looking to walk more, a runner training for your next race, or simply someone trying to stay active at home, there’s a treadmill under £800 that will suit you.

Go for the Proform Carbon TLS if you’re a serious runner.

Pick the Run500 Smart if incline training excites you.

Choose the WalkingPad R1 Pro if space is tight.

Stick with the HOMCOM or Dripex models if you’re on a strict budget and mainly want to walk.

The right treadmill is the one that fits your space, your budget, and your lifestyle — and once you’ve found it, you’ll wonder how you managed without one.

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COVID is still here. What we can do about it

As we move into autumn 2025, COVID-19 has not gone away. Around the world and in the UK, viral activity is rising again, with new variants under monitoring and concerns over a fresh wave. 

What’s happening now

In the UK, hospital cases and admissions have been creeping upward in recent weeks. 

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has noted that as autumn approaches, respiratory illnesses tend to increase, and the emergence of new lineages is being closely monitored. 

Two variants, sometimes referred to as “Stratus” (XFG / XFG.3) and “Nimbus” (NB.1.8.1), are in circulation and under observation. 

One characteristic that has been highlighted is that the “Stratus” variant has sometimes been associated with a hoarse voice as a symptom. 

Importantly, health bodies emphasise that there is currently no strong evidence these variants are more severe than earlier ones, but they may evade immunity somewhat more efficiently. 

In short: COVID is still circulating, and we can’t assume seasonal “quiet” any more. As ever, vaccination, surveillance, good hygiene, and isolation when ill remain key defences.

Nutrition, Immunity & Recovery: How Food and Drinks Can Help

It’s not a cure-all: diet alone cannot stop infection or replace treatments or public health measures. But there is growing evidence that good nutrition can support immune resilience, reduce complications, and aid recovery for those who do get infected. 

Here’s what research and guidance suggest:

Key nutrients to spotlight

Some vitamins, minerals and food components are repeatedly flagged in the literature as beneficial in the context of infectious disease and recovery:

Vitamin C Antioxidant, supports immune cell function Citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli

Vitamin D Regulates immune response, may reduce severity risks Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, fortified foods, safe sun exposure

Zinc Important for immune cell proliferation & repair Shellfish, meat, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains

Omega-3 fatty acids Anti-inflammatory actions, aid tissue repair Fatty fish (salmon, sardines), chia seeds, flaxseed, walnuts

Vitamin A / Beta-carotene Supports mucosal barriers (respiratory, gut) Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, liver (in moderation)

Phytochemicals / polyphenols May modulate viral replication, inflammation, oxidative stress Green/black tea, coffee, berries, citrus, cruciferous veg, herbs & spices 

A study reviewing food and nutrients across many countries noted that diets rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components correlated with better COVID-19 outcomes (less severe disease, faster recovery) when used as complementary approaches. 

Other recommendations from agencies like WHO emphasise diets rich in fresh, unprocessed foods, plenty of hydration, and minimising excessive sugar, salt and ultra-processed foods. 

Beneficial foods & drinks: practical ideas

Here are some concrete suggestions (and how they might help) if you’re aiming to support your body during this time:

Drinks & liquids

Water: Fundamental. Adequate hydration supports all bodily functions, helps thin mucus, and prevents dehydration. 

Herbal teas (unsweetened): E.g. ginger, chamomile, mint — soothing, hydrating, and may have mild anti-inflammatory or antiviral plant compounds.

Green tea / black tea: Rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that may modulate immune responses. 

Bone broth / light soups: Gentle on the digestive system, warming, hydrating, and can deliver protein and minerals — useful particularly if appetite is poor.

Diluted fresh citrus juice / lemon water: As a vitamin C boost (without overloading on sugar) — e.g. a splash of lemon in water.

Smoothies: Use fruit, vegetables, yoghurt or oat milk, seeds — a convenient way to pack in nutrients when appetite is low.

Foods & meals

Colourful fruits and vegetables: Aim for a “rainbow” — red peppers, berries, greens, sweet potato, tomatoes — to supply antioxidants, fibre and micronutrients.

Lean protein sources: Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, legumes — vital for repair, immune cell production, muscle maintenance.

Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, quinoa, whole wheat — for energy, fibre, B-vitamins and sustained glucose.

Nuts & seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia, flaxseed — good sources of healthy fats, protein, micronutrients.

Healthy oils: Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil — in moderation, preferential to saturated or trans fats.

Fermented foods / probiotic sources: Yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi — may support gut health, which is increasingly recognised to interact with immune function.

Spices & herbs: Turmeric, garlic, ginger, rosemary — beyond flavour, many have anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties.

If someone is battling COVID and struggling with symptoms (loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, taste changes), strategies include:

Eating smaller, frequent meals rather than large ones

Choosing softer, easy-to-swallow foods

Fortifying foods (e.g. stirring in nut butters, powdered milk, oils)

Using gentle flavour enhancers (herbs, lemon, mild spices) to stimulate taste/appetite

Resting after meals, avoiding overeating

The British Dietetic Association also suggests following a Mediterranean-style diet, avoiding overly strict / restrictive diets, planning easy meals and nourishing drinks, and being gentle with oneself during recovery. 

This is supportive nutrition, not medicine. Good diet and fluids can help, but they cannot replace vaccines, antiviral treatments, medical care, or public health measures.

Not every individual will respond the same: age, underlying health conditions, pre-existing nutrient status, medications, and severity of illness all matter.

Always check with a healthcare professional, especially if you have chronic diseases (e.g. diabetes, kidney issues, heart disease) or are on treatments that influence diet.

If you’re taking supplements (vitamins, minerals, herbs) in large doses, be cautious — interactions or side effects can occur.

In acute illness, appetite may drop; forced large meals may do more harm (e.g. nausea) than good. Gentle, small, nutrient-dense options are often better.

Taking a Broader View: Prevention & Resilience

While focusing on food is worthwhile, the bigger picture matters too:

Vaccination and boosters remain one of the strongest defences against serious COVID outcomes.

Hygiene measures — hand washing, mask use in crowded/poorly ventilated settings — still help reduce transmission.

Adequate sleep, stress management & physical activity support immune function.

Prompt testing and isolation if symptoms appear, to limit spread and allow early supportive care.

Monitoring, especially for vulnerable groups (older adults, immunocompromised, those with comorbidities), remains essential.

Summary & Take-Home Tips

COVID is still active globally and within the UK, with some upticks in cases and new variants under watch.

Good nutrition and hydration can help support your immune system, aid recovery, and potentially reduce complications — but they are just one piece of the puzzle.

Emphasise fresh, varied, unprocessed foods, focus on key nutrients (vitamin C, D, zinc, omega-3s, antioxidants), and include comforting, easy-to-eat meals and fluids if unwell.

Pair nutritional strategies with vaccination, hygiene, rest, and access to medical care when needed.

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The Potential Dangers of Parrot Poop: What Every Owner Should Know

Owning a parrot is an absolute joy. Their intelligence, cheeky personalities, and beautiful colours make them wonderful companions. 

But like any pet, they come with responsibilities—and that includes cleaning up after them. 

While most parrot owners accept cage cleaning as part of the daily routine, not everyone realises that parrot droppings can pose risks if not handled properly.

Here’s what every parrot owner should know about the potential dangers of parrot poop, and how to keep both you and your bird safe.

What’s in Parrot Droppings?

Unlike mammals, birds don’t separate solid and liquid waste. Instead, their droppings contain:

Faeces – the solid, often green or brown portion.

Urates – a white, chalky substance (this is bird “urine”).

Water – healthy droppings should be slightly moist, not too watery.

A quick look at your parrot’s droppings each day is actually an important part of monitoring their health. Sudden changes in colour, consistency, or frequency can signal illness. But beyond what droppings tell you about your bird, they can also affect your health.

Potential Risks for Owners

1. Psittacosis (Parrot Fever)

This is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. Parrots can carry it without showing signs, and humans may get infected by inhaling dried droppings or dust. 

Symptoms feel like the flu—fever, chills, cough—and in serious cases, pneumonia. It’s rare, but important to be aware of.

2. Fungal Build-up

If droppings are left sitting in the cage, they can encourage fungi such as Aspergillus. Inhaling spores can irritate your lungs, especially if you already have asthma or allergies.

3. Salmonella

Parrots can carry Salmonella bacteria, which can be spread via droppings. If it gets onto your hands, food prep areas, or surfaces, you might end up with a nasty bout of food poisoning.

4. Dust & Allergies

Even if no infection is present, dried droppings turn into dust. This can irritate your airways and, with long-term exposure, lead to allergic reactions or conditions like bird fancier’s lung.

Who Should Be Extra Careful?

Children – little ones may touch droppings or cage bars, then put their hands in their mouths.

Older relatives – weaker immune systems mean more risk.

Anyone with asthma or a weakened immune system – bird dust and germs can hit harder.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Bird

Clean Daily – Remove droppings from perches, cage floors, and bowls. A little daily effort keeps things safe and manageable.

Disinfect Weekly – Use a bird-safe disinfectant for deeper cage cleans.

Wear Gloves (and sometimes a mask) – Especially when scraping up dried droppings.

Wash Hands Thoroughly – Always after handling your parrot or cleaning their cage.

Good Ventilation – Keep fresh air flowing in the bird’s room to reduce dust build-up.

Vet Check-ups – Regular visits help detect hidden infections before they become problems.

The Bottom Line for Parrot Owners

Parrot poop is part of life with a feathered friend, but it doesn’t have to be a health hazard. With good hygiene and regular cleaning, the risks are very low. 

Think of it as a way to keep both you and your parrot healthy—while enjoying many more years of noisy, colourful companionship.

The Most Painful Health Conditions: From Excruciating to Manageable

Discover the most painful health conditions ranked from severe to moderate. Learn about symptoms, intensity, and when to seek medical attention.

Pain is one of the most universal human experiences, but not all pain is equal. Some health conditions cause extreme, almost unbearable suffering, while others are uncomfortable but manageable. 

Understanding which conditions are typically the most painful can help you recognise symptoms early, empathise with sufferers, and seek proper care.

Extremely Severe Pain

1. Cluster Headaches

Known as “suicide headaches,” cluster headaches are sudden, excruciating attacks around one eye, often waking sufferers from sleep. They are considered one of the most intense pains known to humans.

2. Trigeminal Neuralgia

This nerve condition produces electric-shock-like facial pain, usually on one side of the face. Episodes can last seconds but are often repeated multiple times a day.

3. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones cause sharp, cramping pain as they move through the urinary tract, radiating from the back or flank to the groin. Passing a stone is often described as agonising.

4. Childbirth Complications

While childbirth is a natural process, complications such as obstructed labour without pain relief can result in extreme, prolonged pain.

5. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

CRPS is chronic and usually develops after an injury or surgery, causing burning, stabbing pain and heightened sensitivity in the affected limb.

Severe but Intermittent or Localised Pain

6. Gallstones (Biliary Colic)

Gallstones can trigger sudden, sharp upper abdominal pain, often after fatty meals.

7. Migraines with Aura

Migraines are more than headaches—they bring severe throbbing pain, nausea, and visual disturbances.

8. Acute Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas leads to intense upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back.

9. Severe Burns (2nd and 3rd Degree)

Pain from burns is severe during injury and throughout the healing process, especially during dressing changes.

10. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Shingles produce a painful, blistering rash, sometimes leading to postherpetic neuralgia—long-lasting nerve pain.

🟡 Moderate but Persistent Pain

11. Tooth Abscess

Dental abscesses can cause throbbing, intense pain, often disrupting sleep and daily activities.

12. Appendicitis

Sharp abdominal pain from appendicitis requires urgent medical attention. Pain often worsens quickly if untreated.

13. Endometriosis

This condition causes chronic pelvic pain in those affected, sometimes severely impacting daily life.

14. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to touch.

15. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Arthritis causes joint pain ranging from mild stiffness to severe discomfort limiting movement.

🟢 Less Severe but Distressing Pain

16. Severe Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

Sinus infections cause facial and forehead pressure, headaches, and overall discomfort.

17. Ear Infection (Otitis Media)

Throbbing ear pain is common, especially in children, and can be intense during infection.

18. Tension Headaches

Tension headaches produce dull, persistent pain, often affecting productivity but usually manageable.

19. Muscle Strain or Back Spasms

Strains can cause sharp or throbbing pain, usually improving with rest, physiotherapy, or medication.

20. Sprains (e.g., Ankle Sprain)

Sprains are painful but typically heal well with proper care and rehabilitation.

Final Painful Thoughts

Pain is highly subjective. Even the same condition can feel different for each person. Understanding the most painful health conditions helps us empathise, identify warning signs early, and seek timely treatment.

Pro Tip: If you or someone you know experiences severe or sudden pain, always consult a medical professional promptly—especially for conditions like kidney stones, appendicitis, or unexplained severe headaches.

Surrounded by Idiots? Maybe You’re the Problem?

We’ve all had those days where it feels like the world is full of idiots. The driver who can’t work a roundabout. 

The colleague who emails “per my last email” as if that’s a personality trait. 

The colleague who thinks reheating fish in the office microwave is acceptable. Idiots, the lot of them.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth: if everyone around you is an idiot, chances are… it’s not them. It’s you.

The Idiot Magnet Theory

Think about it. If you’re forever muttering “I can’t believe how thick people are,” yet these so-called idiots somehow manage to hold jobs, run households, raise kids, and even pay taxes, then maybe they’re not quite as clueless as you think. Maybe you’re just the common denominator. Congratulations: you’re the idiot magnet?

Ego in Action

Maybe you’re not surrounded by fools at all — maybe you’re just a bit of a know-it-all. If your internal motto is “my way or the highway,” then every other way will look like idiocy. Spoiler: it’s not. Sometimes, people simply think differently, and that doesn’t make them wrong. It just makes you… difficult.

Communication, or Lack of It

Another possibility: you’re rubbish at explaining things. If everyone “doesn’t get it,” perhaps the problem isn’t their brains, but your mouth. 

Or your PowerPoint. Or that passive-aggressive WhatsApp message you thought was “crystal clear.” If you speak Martian and expect people to reply in fluent English, don’t be shocked when you get blank stares.

The Dangers of the Idiot Label

Here’s the kicker: once you decide everyone else is an idiot, you stop listening. And when you stop listening, you miss out. You miss the colleague who had the better idea. You miss the friend who spotted the flaw in your plan. You miss the chance to not look like a prat.

Quick Self-Test

Ask yourself:

Is everyone else wrong, or am I just impatient?

Do I explain things properly, or do I just bark instructions and hope for the best?

Do I secretly think the world would run smoother if everyone just did what I said?

If you’re nodding along, I’ve got bad news: you might just be the problem.

Final Thought

Yes, there are genuine idiots in the world no denying that. But if you’re convinced you’re drowning in them daily, it’s time for some self-reflection. Either you’ve got the unluckiest life imaginable, or maybe, just maybe, the idiot in the room isn’t them.