Research by the American Council on Exercise confirms that treadmills are the most popular form of home exercise equipment. The benefits are obvious. Home treadmills provide a no-excuses training method. You can use them in any kind of weather, and there's no need to worry about getting to the gym and waiting on line for the equipment. Treadmills are also the most expensive type of home exercise equipment. Prices range from $500 and $6,000, and quality is reflected in price. Selecting an inappropriate treadmill means you could be buying an expensive coat rack.
Step 1
Measure your floor space to determine how much room you have for a treadmill. Non-folding treadmills are usually the length of a couch, whereas folding treadmills are usually somewhat shorter. If space is limited, consider a folding treadmill, but remember, running uses longer strides than walking. A shorter treadmill will be less efficient.
Step 2
Determine how much money you want to spend, and what features are important to you. Then, check the treadmill review sites to find the best treadmill in your price range that suits most of your needs (see Resources).
Step 3
Call your local exercise equipment store and find out if it has the treadmills that interest you. Wear your running shoes and comfortable running clothes when you visit the store.
Step 4
Check the treadmill's motor power. While some websites suggest a minimum 1.5 horsepower, the American Council on Exercise advises that a minimum of 2.0 continuous-duty horsepower (CHP) motor will accommodate users who weigh over 180 lbs.
Step 5
Examine the treadmill belt. Choose belts that are at least two-ply, with measurements of 17 inches wide and 49 inches long.
Step 6
Examine the deck construction. Since treadmill running is a high-impact activity, look for a deck the flexes under your foot to absorb shock.
Step 7
Choose a treadmill frame. The less expensive frames have a steel construction, whereas the more expensive treadmill frames are made from aircraft aluminum. These frames provide greater impact absorption for runners. They are less likely to rust than steel frames.
Step 8
Check the control console. It should display distance, duration and speed. Added features, such as heart rate monitors, will cost extra.
Step 9
Check the speed range. Runners require a maximum speed range of 8 to 10 miles per hour.
Step 10
Check the incline grade. Choosing a treadmill with a 15 percent incline grade is the best option for simulating outdoor hill running.
Step 11
Examine the warranty. Most treadmills come with a lifetime warranty on the frame. The individual features have warranties that range from range from 90 days to three years.
Step 12
Try a number of treadmills to determine their comfort level.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have kids, choose a machine with safety locks that prevent the machine from accidentally starting.
- The American College of Sports Medicine warns against the accuracy of treadmill calorie read-outs. For example, holding on to the handrails burns fewer calories, but this is not indicated in the reading.
Things You'll Need
- Running shoes
- Comfortable clothing
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