The best place to shop and compare treadmills is in a sporting goods or specialty fitness store. When you check out the treadmills in stores, you can try out each model to check the feel of each workout machine. If the machine feels cheaply made, you can avoid wasting your money on it. Before you head to the store, you should have a budget in mind and what types of features you are looking for.
Features
When you test out the treadmill at the store, fiddle around with the electronic console. You should be able to easily change the speed and resistance while jogging or walking. An emergency stop key should also be accessible in the event you become overly fatigued during a workout. A tethered safety key can also be used for control when the machine stops and starts. Better-quality treadmills will use wireless heart rate monitoring over pulse sensors. Wireless heart rate monitors continuously report your heart rate without the need to hold onto the rails of the machine.
Belt
Examine the treadmill belt at the store while comparison shopping. If you are less than 6 feet tall, you should look for a belt approximately 20 inches wide and 52 to 55 inches long. If you are over 6 feet, consider the full-sized, 60-inch-long belt. According to Smooth Fitness, most high-quality belts will be two-ply with a polyurethane top layer and a diagonal seam for extra bonding. Look for a belt with a tight weave and that is thick enough to cushion the impact while running.
Construction
Examine the frame and deck of each treadmill you are comparing. The deck should be constructed from wood and at least be ¾" thick. If rubber grommets are in place around the deck, this helps reduce impact during jogging and running. Steel and aluminum frames can last for years with regular use. To test the strength of the treadmill, run for a couple of minutes. The treadmill should not feel bouncy during use.
Specs
Remember to check the spec sheet at the store to find out any information you need to know before you make a final purchase. The spec sheet should list the details about warranty coverage. As a rule, most components of the treadmill should be covered for a minimum of three years under warranty. Motor details should also be listed on the spec sheet. For walking or light jogging, a 1.0 to 1.5 HP motor is acceptable, while regular joggers and runners should use a treadmill with a 1.5 to 2.0 HP motor.
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