A treadmill is either motorized or manual. Manual treadmills are the only types that would have a 13-inch-wide belt, which is not inherently good or bad, except in relation to your workout goals. A 13-inch belt might be adequate for some users but not others, depending on your goals and fitness level.
Treadmill Belt Sizes
A manual treadmill doesn't have a motor. Manual treadmills are smaller, lighter and less expensive than motorized treadmills. The running area on a manual treadmill typically measures from 13 to 17 inches wide and from 41 to 45 inches long. A 13-inch wide treadmill belt is the smallest sized belt.
A motorized treadmill belt typically measures from 16 to 22 inches wide and from 45 to 62 inches long. Motorized treadmills do not possess 13-inch belts.
Stride
A 13-inch wide treadmill belt is the smallest you will find. This is not a wide belt. Stand with your feet a comfortable distance apart, as if you were walking. Measure the distance from the outside of one foot to the outside edge of the other foot. It may already be 13 or more inches. Unless you have a narrow gait, a 13-inch belt may be uncomfortable to walk on, with your feet closer together than usual.
Fitness Goals
If you are just beginning a walking program and have a narrow gait, a 13-inch belt may be adequate for you. However, Treadmill-ratings-reviews.com recommends against purchasing a treadmill with a belt width of less than 16 inches. Even for walking, the website recommends at least an 18-inch belt, and preferably a 20-inch belt. If you are a jogger or runner, you want a belt that measures 20 or 22 inches wide. Too narrow of a belt makes jogging or running uncomfortable and cramped, not to mention a little dangerous if you trip over your own feet.
Considerations
A manual treadmill with a 13-inch belt is small and compact. It doesn't take up as much space as treadmills with larger running areas. However, it offers limited functionality. If you are just starting a walking routine, you may feel that a 13-inch belt fits your needs, but you should consider whether you plan to eventually progress to jogging or running. If you do, you could easily outgrow your 13-inch belt relatively quickly.
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