At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity five days a week keeps your body in shape and helps prevent heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and other health problems, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Walking, jogging or running on a home treadmill gives you the exercise you need without having to make a trip to the gym or go outdoors where the weather may be less than favorable. Analyze home treadmills carefully before purchasing one to make sure your investment meets your personal needs and workout goals.
Safety and Durability
The treadmill you choose should be sturdy and made of quality materials. Read the warranty information, and purchase a treadmill manufactured by a reputable company that offers at least a two-year warranty on major parts. The treadmill's platform should not wobble or sway, even when inclined. Look for rails or handles on the sides for stability when stepping on and off the belt. Most treadmills include an emergency shut-off tether that clips to your clothes so if you lose your footing and start to slide off the end of the belt, it stops moving. If you have small children around, look for a model that requires a key to start the machine.
Power and Incline
A treadmill with a powerful, well-made motor will help you get the most use out of your machine with less chance of heavy maintenance or repairs. Choose a model that, at least, runs continuously at 1.5 horsepower, though treadmills that run at 2.5 or 3.0 horsepower are better. Treadmills with a starting speed of 0.1 mph are easiest to use, because the low starting speed allows you to get your footing before increasing the speed of the belt. Machines that go up to 8 mph are sufficient for most people, though if you're training for sprinting you'll want to buy a model with a higher top speed. Choose a home treadmill with a maximum incline of at least 10 percent, and look for easy adjustment controls.
Size
Your treadmill's belt should be at least 18 inches wide and 48 inches long to enable you to work out without worrying about losing your footing. Narrow belts make it difficult for your stride to hit the center of the belt, and belts that are too short make it difficult to stay on the machine when jogging or running, particularly if you are tall. Measure the space in your home where you want to put the treadmill, and bring the measurements for comparison while shopping. You need several inches of space around the machine, with about a foot behind the treadmill.
Other Features
Consider other optional features to help you meet your fitness goals with your new treadmill. You are less likely to work out on a machine that doesn't offer features you really want. Many models come with built-in heart rate monitors and computerized displays that track your distance, time and speed. Some treadmills have programs that allow you to customize your workout to include several inclines and speeds.
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