Treadmills can range in price from around $100 to several thousands of dollars depending on the quality and features you desire in your equipment. While a $4,000 treadmill is certain to deliver a quality workout, it may have more features than you need for your training purposes. Knowing your training goals and what common features you should always get with a treadmill will help you wisely purchase the best machine for your needs.
Avoid Manual Treadmills
The American College of Sports Medicine states that even though you can get a cardiovascular workout on a manual treadmill, they are never superior to their motorized counterparts. This is because the tread belt is too small for running, difficult to use and requires you to hold onto the handrails at times for balance, which can raise your blood pressure while exercising. Manual treadmills may also result in you exercising at an irregular pace, thus diminishing your exercise benefits.
Seek a Strong Motor
ExerciseEquipmentExpert.com reports that treadmill motors typically have a maximum power rating that ranges between one and four horsepower. However, a high maximum horsepower motor does not necessarily guarantee that you will get a quality workout. Instead, you should compare the continuous duty horsepower rating of treadmills. The best treadmills have at least two continuous duty horsepower, and the more horsepower they have, the smoother your workout will be.
Solid Frame Construction
When buying a treadmill, try to buy one within your budget that supports the most weight possible and has the longest warranty on the frame. Treadmills that have aluminum frames are the best and have the longest life expectancy, but are typically the most expensive. The best way to test the construction of a treadmills frame is to run on it and make note if it wobbles under your footfalls. A quality shock absorption system in the deck will also help to make your workout feel stable.
Display Console Features
If all other factors are equal in the treadmills you are considering, the workout and comfort features available through the display console may make one machine clearly superior for your workout purposes. Consider the amount of programmed workouts, incline and resistance settings, workout feedback and comfort features that are available through the machine's electronics. Select a machine with features that will keep you motivated to stick with your exercising regimen.
Member Comments