Treadmills let you walk, run or jog regardless of the outdoor weather. They're also ideal if you prefer to workout in the privacy of your home. Not all treadmills are made alike, and some offer superb features like virtual reality tools that can help you get the most out of your workout. For the best results, select a treadmill model that's been ranked as one of the best by independent testers.
Sole F63
The Sole F63 treadmill was ranked by "Consumer Reports" magazine's independent tests as one of the best folding treadmills available, representing a prime value between features and a low price point. It features a 33-inch by 75-inch running area that's powered by a 2.5-horsepower motor capable of propelling the running deck by up to 10 miles per hour. It can handle up to 325 lbs. of weight and hosts additional features, like built-in cooling fans to keep you comfortable and an LCD display screen.
Reebok S9.80
After testing dozens of treadmills with criteria governing everything from motor noise to track comfort, The Treadmill Doctor ranks Reebok's product as one of the best in the low to midpriced category. They call it a "clear winner," offering a great balance between features and low price. Its 3-horsepower engine can propel the running area up to 12 miles per hour and can hold up to 375 lbs. A surround sound speaker system can hook up to your MP3 player while a backlist screen offers eight customizable workout plans.
Lifespan TR800
Lifespan's treadmill won a "Head of the Class" award from The Fitness Professor, an independent testing organization that looks at criteria such as comfort and ease of use. It features a 1.75-horsepower motor that can support up to 650 lbs. and moves the track at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour. Technical features include monitoring tools that report your heart rate or distance traveled, plus 20 different workout programs.
PaceMaster Platinum Pro VR
If you're looking for the fanciest and most advanced treadmill, PaceMaster's product is the best--and one of the priciest--according to "Consumer Reports" magazine. Its standout feature is its full-color TV screen, which displays advanced readings like your calories burned, plus a virtual reality tool. This tool simulates outdoor running by changing the speed and incline of the running track as the on-screen display shows you running through valleys, mountainous terrain and other geographical features.
References
- "Consumer Reports"; Building a Home Gym; Editors of Consumer Reports; February 2009
- Treadmill Doctor: Treadmill Best Buys
- The Fitness Professor: Treadmill Reviews
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