Manual treadmills are a cheaper, more lightweight counterpart to the electronic treadmills that plug into an electrical outlet. The properties, action and workout benefits of manual and electric treadmills differ slightly, and the type most suitable for you will depend on your exercise regimen. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Walkers
Manual treadmills are typically smaller and more lightweight than their electronic counterparts. Additionally, the belt of a manual treadmill is powered by the user through hand-operated levers that must be pushed and pulled during a workout. Because of the small treadmill belt and the need to operate the belt manually, most treadmill users find that manual treadmills are more suited to walking than running. If you plan to use your treadmill for walking or jogging rather than fast running, a manual version may work well.
Cost-Conscious Consumers
Manual treadmills are typically cheaper than electronic treadmills, in terms of purchase price and running costs. As at February 2011, a new manual treadmill can sell for under $200, or significantly less than the cheapest electronic treadmill, where costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Additionally, the cost of running a manual treadmill is essentially zero, as you provide the power to move the manual treadmill belt by operating the levers as you work out.
Cross-Trainers
Individuals seeking a relatively low-impact form of exercise for the upper and lower body may be drawn to the manual treadmill. Unlike an electronic treadmill, a manual treadmill makes it necessary for you to use both your arms and legs during a workout. This provides a cross-training workout similar to that of a low-intensity elliptical machine. To achieve a similar upper-body workout on an electronic treadmill, you could hold and lift free weights in your hands while walking or running on the treadmill belt.
Rehabilitation and Safety
A manual treadmill may be a preferable option if you are undergoing physical rehabilitation after an injury or event such as a stroke. A treadmill provides a relatively safe, indoor exercise option, even if you lack the strength or coordination to walk unaided. A manual treadmill may be particularly safe for rehabilitation use, as there is a lower risk of falling off a manual treadmill than an electronic treadmill. This is because a manual treadmill belt will stop moving immediately after you fail to pull and push the levers.
Member Comments