A 2.5 power treadmill has a 2.5 horsepower motor. The motor dictates the capabilities of the treadmill, such as the top speed and how long it can run at high speeds. You may or may not require a 2.5 hp motor in your treadmill, depending on your fitness level and goals.
Horsepower
Horsepower is the power measurement for a treadmill's motor and is measured in .25 hp increments. Most treadmills have a motor that is between 1 and 5 hp. In general, lower-end treadmills have a 1.5 to 2.5 hp motor, mid-range treadmills have a 2.5 to 3.5 hp motor and high-end treadmills have a 3.5 to 5 hp motor. However, the horsepower number only tells you part of the story. To rate a 2.5 hp motor, you need to know if it is a continuous-duty or peak rating.
Peak Horsepower
No entity provides set standards for rating a treadmill motor. If the manufacturer lists it as a 2.5 hp motor, look deeper to learn whether that is the continuous-duty rating or the peak rating. Peak horsepower is the maximum horsepower the motor is capable of reaching. The rating typically indicates that the motor can sustain that power for about 15 minutes. A 2.5 peak hp motor can reach and sustain the 2.5 power rating for about 15 minutes. If you are a regular jogger or runner, this motor could not sustain these speeds for long periods, although it would be adequate for walking.
Continuous-Duty Horsepower
The continuous-duty rating indicates the maximum horsepower the treadmill can maintain continuously without dropping its power. A 2.5 continuous-duty hp motor is better than a 2.5 peak horsepower treadmill motor, as it can deliver the 2.5 power load continuously for long periods of time, instead of just for 15 minutes. You can use a 2.5 continuous-duty hp motor for jogging and even some sprinting; however, it may not handle sprinting speeds for long periods.
Considerations
Treadmill-ratings-reviews.com rates a 2.5 continuous-duty hp treadmill motor as adequate for jogging. If you are a runner, the website recommends getting at least a 3.0 continuous-duty hp motor. However, other factors come into play regarding the quality of a treadmill motor. The parts used and the design of the motor affect its performance. You can purchase two different treadmills, both with 2.5 continuous-duty hp motors, and have one handle heavy loads and high speeds with less heat and drag than the other.
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