Treadmills are great tools for developing health, fitness, and sports performance skills. Treadmills come in two general classifications: externally powered and self-powered. Self-powered models require the user to move the belt as they run. Thus this type of machine has no true maximum speed because it is only limited by the ability of the user. Externally powered models are connected to a power source, and the belt moves independently of the user, requiring the user to keep pace with the belt. This is the more common machine, and it is limited in its maximum speed.
Speeds
The maximum speed of treadmills varies greatly from one treadmill to another. Many home treadmills will have a max speed of only 10 miles per hour. Commercial treadmills, which are often found in your local gym or fitness center, commonly have a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour. However, you will find that some treadmills max out at as low as 10 miles per hour. The highest maximum speed of 25 miles per hour can be found on performance treadmills.
Types
There are many different brands and models of treadmills. There are commercial treadmills designed with a wide range of features to suit a wide range of clientele. There are treadmills designed solely for home use. These treadmills tend to offer only select features with narrower ranges of options. There are performance treadmills designed for the highly fit and elite athletes. Finally, there are treadmills designed for clinical use in hospitals, clinics and research facilities.
Uses
The maximum speeds on a treadmill are used for several reasons. Long endurance runs rarely push a treadmill to its limits. It is shorter, more explosive activities that max out a machine's speed capabilities. When a user reaches the maximum speed of a machine, he must increase the incline of the machine for a tougher workout.
Setting
In addition to the maximum capable speed of a treadmill, some machines may be set by technicians or clubs to operate at a reduced maximum speed. This is sometimes called the club limit of the treadmill. The option to adjust the maximum speed of the treadmill is often found in the advanced settings of the machine controls.
Precautions
There are precautions that should be taken when using a treadmill at its maximum speed. Using a machine at its maximum speed requires a user to not only have great speed but to also have great concentration and coordination, as one second of distraction or a single misstep can result in a user being violently thrown from the machine. It is best to max out a treadmill's speed only when supervised by a professional.
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