The number of joggers in the U.S. has risen from approximately 100,000 in 1968, to more than 30 million, notes Cooper Aerobics. Equipment manufacturers began producing treadmills in an effort to provide a convenient means of jogging and walking indoors. Treadmills are now the most widely used piece of exercise equipment. According to SGMA, a fitness industry trade association, exercise equipment is a $4.22 billion industry, and treadmill sales account for 25.9 percent of that figure. Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
History
Before they became used as exercise equipment, treadmills were used for medical testing. In 1952, Dr. Robert Bruce and Wayne Quinton developed a treadmill to diagnose heart and lung disease. Treadmills were also used by NASA to help provide exercise for astronauts during space exploration. Skylab went into space with both a stationary bike and a treadmill.
Considerations
Exercising on a treadmill has advantages and disadvantages over running outdoors on a natural surface. When you run outside the wind to be a factor, and you may burn more calories because of it. When you tire on a natural surface, you may unintentionally slow your pace, which could decrease the intensity of your workouts. This subconscious decrease in pace is unlikely to occur on a treadmill, as you set your pace. Treadmills may be easier on your joints than exercising outdoors, as they generally have cushioned decks.
Types
Treadmills are either motorized or manual. A manual treadmill operates by the friction of your feet pulling the tread across wheels. Manual treadmills are safer than motorized treadmills because they allow you to completely control the motion of the track. Motorized treadmills are more expensive, but often have more features, such as automatic incline and speed controls, preset interval training programs and built-in heart rate monitors. Folding treadmills save space.
Purchasing Decisions
Before buying a treadmill, check the manufacturer's warranty and the availability of replacement parts. If your warranty only covers parts and labor for 90 days, consider an extended warranty or another manufacturer. Replacement parts, such as motherboards and decks can be costly. Run or walk on the treadmills you are considering before you make your decision.
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