A manual treadmill is a piece of cardiovascular exercise equipment. A manual treadmill, as opposed to a standard motorized treadmill, does not have an electrical motor. All movement on the treadmill is supplied by walking against the treadmill belt. Speed, distance and intensity are determined by you and your current level of fitness.
Safety
A manual treadmill does not have an electric motor, and the belt does not run unless you are walking. Therefore, there is no chance of falling off of the treadmill because you could not adjust the speed or stop the belt. There is also no motor to burn out or any other possible electrical complications.
Practical Considerations
A manual treadmill typically costs considerably less than a standard treadmill due to the absence of an electrical motor and electronic displays. An additional benefit is that the manual treadmill can be placed anywhere in the home or exercise studio because it isn't necessary to have a nearby electrical outlet.
Muscular Strength
To power a manual treadmill, you must move the belt with your legs. The muscles of the quadriceps, hamstrings, hips and glutes will all receive direct benefits from walking. The intensity of effort, or how fast you walk on the treadmill, will determine how much muscular effort is involved and the speed of the treadmill.
Muscular Endurance
Your legs will develop an improved ability to perform work on the treadmill over a long period of time. Your current level of fitness will determine how long you are able to walk continuously on the treadmill. Over time, your muscles will begin to adapt and you will be able to exercise for longer durations. The muscles of the lower body become more efficient and will not fatigue as quickly with prolonged training.
Aerobic Fitness
Your heart, lungs and circulatory system will benefit from working out on a manual treadmill. The muscles of the lower body require oxygen to perform continuous work on the treadmill. The demand for oxygen forces your lungs to bring in more air and your heart to pump more oxygen-rich blood to the working muscles. The greater the intensity of effort and the longer the duration of training, the greater the increase in the benefits in aerobic fitness.
References
- “Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning,” 3d ed.; Thomas Baechle and Roger Earle; 2009
- “Encyclopedia of Muscle & Strength”; Jim Stoppani; 2006
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