If you thought you could never afford a home treadmill, think again. Specifically think about a manual treadmill rather than a motorized one. The TrimWalk manual treadmill costs less than $150 and offers some of the same exercise benefits as a costly motorized treadmill, although it does also lack some of the fancier features.
Deck and Belt
The TrimWalk manual treadmill walking belt attaches to two balanced flywheels and measures 17 inches wide by 40 inches long. Because the treadmill has no motor, the belt only moves from your own power. The treadmill's deck has a bit of give, so it's softer on your joints. In its extended position, the treadmill stays at a slight incline. Some models have a single incline level.
Frame and Portability
The TrimWalk manual treadmill frame consists of a metal stand with a horizontal base, two vertical side bars and a horizontal top bar that curves at the ends to create to small handles. The front of the treadmill's deck and belt is attached to the lower portion of the frame by a joint that lets the deck lie flat or fold up and lock into place with an anchor pin. When folded, the treadmill measures about 26 inches wide by 47.25 inches high and 18.5 inches deep.
Other Features
Although the treadmill does not run on electricity, it does include an electronic monitor. The monitor is a small, battery-operated unit attached to the top front of the frame. The LED readout shows time, speed, distance and calories burned. A single AA battery runs the monitor. The price of the TrimWalk manual treadmill was $140 in January 2011.
Manual vs. Motorized
The TrimWalk manual treadmill is less expensive and much lighter than motorized treadmills, which can cost upwards of $1,000. Motorized treadmills, however, have some other advantages, Electric Treadmills notes. Motorized treadmills can better monitor your progress with features that include a heart rate monitor and speed controls that force you to keep the pace. With a TrimWalk manual treadmill, you're on your own. The only power is your own two feet. Motorized treadmills also generally have more incline settings and a variety of workout sequences programmed into the computer. All those options, plus the motor, make motorized treadmills larger and heavier than TrimWalk manual treadmills.
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