Walking is an easy, low-impact way to exercise, but weather and traffic conditions don't always cooperate. If you're thinking about buying a treadmill so you can walk without leaving your home, there are two basic types to choose from: manual and motorized. With a little information, you can make the best choice for your unique needs.
Safety and Effectiveness
As a general rule, manual treadmills are a bit safer than powered ones. Because you move the belt with your own feet, it stops if you stop. If you happen to fall, the belt won't throw you across the room. However, the American College of Sports Medicine reports that manual treadmills often have narrower belts than motorized ones, and that makes it difficult to jog or run, making manual treadmills a better choice for beginning exercisers or those who can only do low-impact exercises.
Price
Manual treadmills are a good choice if money is your primary concern. The American College of Sports Medicine reports manual treadmills are significantly less expensive than powered treadmills. Anecdotal evidence bears that out. As of April 2011, a search on a the shopping section of a popular search engine shows the average price range for manual treadmills is $100 to $200, while motorized treadmills retail for $950 to $3,000.
Features
Manual treadmills have few, if any, features. On most, you just get on and walk, altering your workout intensity with your speed, although some models let you change the incline and a few have basic LCD speed readouts. You might prefer a manual treadmill if you're not technically inclined or don't like fiddling with buttons. However, if you like to customize your workouts, want detailed information about calories burned or distance traveled, or like to try different workouts designed by others, a motorized treadmill might be a better choice.
Other Considerations
If you've decided a treadmill is for you, there are some things you should keep in mind whether you want a manual or powered unit. First, consider your size. According to certified fitness trainer Cindy Brotherston, treadmill belts come in a variety of lengths from 45 inches to 60 inches, and taller people usually need the longest belts. Brotherston also recommends choosing a sturdy model, one that doesn't wobble and will fit easily in your home. If you have limited space, she recommends folding instead of fixed models.
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