A treadmill is a type of exercise equipment that provides a cardiovascular workout. Exercises that you can do on a treadmill such as walking, running and jogging, increase your heart rate, improve heart muscle and burn calories and fat. When looking for a treadmill that can provide at least a moderately intense cardio workout, important features include maximum speed, maximum incline, horsepower, belt size and weight capacity.
Heart Rate
One of the most important functions to look for when buying a treadmill for an intense cardio workout is one that can help you reach your heart rate goals. During physical activity, you should aim for 60 to 90 percent of your maximum heart rate. Your maximum heart rate is determined by age. A healthy 40 year old, for example, has a max heart rate of 180 beats per minute, or BPM. So he should aim for a heart rate of 108 to 162 BPM. The Sole F80, with a maximum speed of 11 mph and running surface of 20 x 60 inches, is a good machine for an intense running cardio workout.
Horsepower
ConsumerSearch.com explains that mid-priced treadmills, which can range from $1,000 to $2,000, are constructed with stronger motors as well as high maximum speeds, making them durable enough to withstand jogging and running-heavy workouts. Specifically, look for a machine with a 3.5 to 4 horsepower, HP, motor. Or at least a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor, or CHP. The ProForm Trailrunner 2.0 has a max speed of 15 mph, a 20 x 60-inch belt and a 3.5 CHP motor. The Bowflex 7-Series has a 3.5 HP motor, 12 mph max speed and 20 x 60-inch running belt.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity refers to the amount of weight the machine is designed to withhold. Because continuous running puts more force on the machine compared to walking, if you plan to use your treadmill specifically for running, you should look for a machine with a high weight capacity of at least 300 lbs. Also consider the weight of the heaviest user. If the heaviest user in your home is 275 lbs. and he plans to use a treadmill for running, the weight capacity should be at least 325 lbs. The NordicTrack A2350 Pro has a weight capacity of 325 lbs., a 2.8 HP motor, max speed of 12 mph, max incline of 10 percent and running area of 20 x 60-inch, all of which should meet the needs of a moderately intense cardio workout. The Healthrider Pro H500i has a weight capacity of 300 lbs., 1.75 CHP motor, max speed of 10 mph, max incline of 10 percent and 19 x 50-inch belt. This machine can provide a moderately intense cardio workout for walkers.
Incline
You don't have to run or jog to get the most heart-healthy benefits from your treadmill. Walking on an incline requires more energy and burns more calories than walking on a flat surface. An incline feature on a treadmill also improves balance. You can save a few dollars by trading in high horsepower for maximum incline. Mid-priced machines like Gold's Gym CrossWalk 570 has a top incline of 10 percent, max speed of 10 mph, 2.8 HP motor and 22 x 55-inch belt size, which is appropriate for walking or light jogging. The ProForm XT 70 has a max incline of 20 percent, a max speed of 10 mph, 2.0 CHP motor and 18 x 55-inch belt.
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