Treadmills are very popular exercise machines. The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association says more than 40 million treadmills are purchased each year in the U.S. Treadmills make up more than 30 percent of all home exercise equipment sales.
The American Heart Association (AHA) says doctors often use a treadmill to test how well your heart handles physical activity. The treadmill test indicates if there is insufficient blood flow in the arteries that supply the heart. A manual treadmill can be an economical and efficient way to exercise at home.
Effects
A manual treadmill is a convenient way to get the aerobic benefits of walking or running in the comfort of your own home. It allows you to exercise day or night, regardless of the weather while listening to music, watching TV or reading.
Affordabilty
Manual treadmills are more affordable than motorized treadmills. Some manual treadmills sell for as little as $100 to $200. This compares to price tags ranging from $500 to $2500 for some electric models. All prices are as of 2009.
Efficiency
The manual treadmill operates solely on your level of exertion. The functioning of the treadmill is completely reliant on the speed at which you walk. This increased energy output can help develop your leg muscles and reap the maximum benefits from your workout.
Advantages
The manual treadmill runs without the need for electricity or battery power. They are space savers because they generally are not as cumbersome as motorized treadmills. According to the Mayo Clinic, a manual treadmill is safer than a powered treadmill because the belts come to a halt when you stop moving.
Downsides
The platform on a manual treadmill is usually smaller than on a motorized treadmill. This can make it harder to run, jog or even walk at a fast pace. It can be a struggle to easily move the belt on a manual treadmill. This may result in a broken up base, reducing the effectiveness of your workout.
Unlike many power-operated treadmills, manual treadmills do not have many desirable and useful features such as speed control, heart rate monitor, adjustable inclines or pre-programmed workouts.
Member Comments