The treadmill is among the favorite pieces of cardiovascular equipment at the local gym. The treadmill is easy to use, requires minimal skill, and allows for a great low impact workout. The treadmill has a wide range of uses and can be found in homes, gyms, athletic training centers and medical facilities.
The Facts
According to Oxford University Press, a treadmill is a machine specifically designed for exercise that has a moving surface allowing you to run or walk while staying in the same place.
History
The first treadmill was not created for fitness, but instead to diagnose heart and lung disease. The inventor of the treadmill was Dr. Robert Bruce and Wayne Quinton at the University of Washington in 1952. It wasn't until Dr. Kenneth Cooper, founder of The Cooper Institute, published research in 1968 to support the benefits of aerobic exercise that individuals thought to develop the treadmill for commercial use. Aerobics Inc. became an early producer of treadmills for home use in 1968.
Significance
The treadmill is used to improve the fitness of the heart and lungs. Treadmills are often used in a medical setting with electrocardiograms to detect disease of the cardiovascular system. Athletes use treadmills to determine oxygen uptake and improve athletic ability.
Features
Treadmill technology has advanced considerably since its invention in 1952. The treadmills of today include heart rate monitors, advanced programming to mimic marathons and terrain walking as well as compatibility with iPods and other technology. Some treadmills even have the ability to store workouts so that they can be repeated without manual adjustments.
Considerations
According to the American College of Sports Medicine, the treadmill is the most expensive piece of cardiovascular equipment. Treadmills also occupy a considerable amount of space, which is a concern for individuals looking to purchase a treadmill for home use. There are some treadmills that fold for storage but they are usually of lower quality.
Benefits
Treadmills are easy for most people to use because walking and running are natural activities. Because walking and running are weight-bearing activities using the large muscles of the leg, the heart rate can be raised quickly and maintained for a great cardiovascular workout. The intensity of workout on the treadmill can be changed easily by modifying speed or incline.
References
- ACSM's Resource Manual for Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription 4th edition; American College of Sports Medicine, 2001
- History and Precedents
- Oxford University Press
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