If you are in the market for a treadmill geared to walkers, you will find a variety of models from which to choose. Walkers don't need the same type of treadmill as runners require. Runners need cushioning and construction on a treadmill that can take more of a pounding. As a result, a treadmill for a runner is likely to be more expensive than one for a walker.
Price
Runners are often steered away from treadmills that cost less than $1,000. Few treadmills in that price range can hold up to the pounding it would take from an avid runner. But treadmills between $500 and $1,000 can be effective for a walker. For example, Treadmill Talk recommends the Gold's Gym Maxx CrossWalk 650 as the best 2011 budget treadmill for walkers. The Maxx Crosswalk 650 is not health-club quality, nor is it for avid runners, but for walkers it is a value, according to Treadmill Talk. The treadmill comes with programs, it's quiet with a large walking deck and has an incline feature. It costs $650, as of February 2011.
Features
Although you can buy a manual treadmill for less than $200, it can be difficult to use. You probably should opt for a motorized model. A top speed of about 6 mph will work for a walker. Two ply belts are the best choice, since they are stronger and will last longer. An incline feature gives you more options for your workout. Inclines can vary from 2 to 25 percent.
Recommendations
Consumer Search recommends the Horizon Evolve SG, which comes fully assembled, folds up easily to fit under a bed and is only suitable for walking. The LifeSpan TR200, another recommended treadmill for walkers, has 10 incline levels for maximum flexibility in your workouts.
Considerations
Some treadmills fold and require little space. Others, such as the CrossWalk 650, don't, so you will need to measure to ensure it will fit in your home. Run the Planet recommends 20 different types of treadmill workouts, ranging from meditation to interval workouts. If you think you may graduate to jogging or running on a treadmill, you might want to consider a treadmill that works for runners and walkers. Treadmill Talk recommends the fold-up Smooth 6.75 as an if you want to run and walk. It sells for about $1,000, as of February 2011.
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