Abstract: An exercise treadmill having a direct drive AC induction motor controlled by an AC motor driver/controller. The driver/controller is itself controlled through programmable circuitry having a display and keyboard with user input options. The controller receives signals from a speed sensing device attached to the AC induction motor to maintain the rotational speed of the AC motor within preselected limits. The AC induction motor is attached to one or more flywheels and directly engages, through a drive roller, a walking belt. The matched combination of an AC motor driver/controller with appropriately sized flywheels allows utilization of a variable speed AC induction motor for the direct drive of the treadmill belt.