Treadmills may cost as little as a few hundred dollars or in excess of $4,000, and most have enough features to thoroughly confuse you if you are not an expert. Rather than allow the bells and whistles of the machine distract you, compare the structural integrity and power of the treadmill against your workout needs to understand if you are getting a valuable machine that will last years, or a lemon that will break down in months.
Horsepower
The more powerful your treadmill motor is, the less likely it will break down after a few months of operation. Bret Spottke, a personal trainer certified by the American Council on Exercise, advises that if you plan to jog or run on the treadmill, it needs a rating of at least 2 continuous duty horsepower. Be careful not to confuse maximum horsepower with continuous duty horsepower when you are shopping. Manufacturers often will list the maximum horsepower rating to make the machine seem more powerful than it actually is.
Frame Construction
A majority of low- and middle-quality treadmills have frames made of steel. If you want to ensure your treadmill frame stands up to years of abuse, aluminum is superior choice. Aluminum is more pliable than steel, so it is better able to absorb your footfalls. Additionally, aluminum is corrosion resistant, so it withstands the test of time better. Many people choose to have folding treadmills for their home as a space saver, but the folding joint of the treadmill is a structural weakness that may shorten its lifespan.
Warranty
Always use the warranty as a sign of the treadmill's quality. Lifetime guarantees on parts indicate that the manufacturer feels the treadmill will have a very long lifespan without need for repair. Leading product review company "Consumer Reports" says your minimum warranty requirements when treadmill shopping should be at least two-years on main components like the motor and one year or more on the electronics.
Pricing
As a general guideline, more expensive treadmills are likely to be more durable than cheaper models. But when you are comparing the lifespan of treadmills, this does not need to be your main concern. Jaime Hirsh, a "Consumer Reports" senior editor, tells "USA Today" that even if you are shopping on a limited budget, you can find a quality treadmill that will last by knowing what features make for a durable construction.
References
- "Consumer Reports": Compare Treadmills -- How to Choose
- Exercise Equipment Expert; Treadmill Buying Guide; Bret Spottke
- American College of Sports Medicine: Selecting and Effectively Using a Home Treadmill
- "USA Today"; Finding the Best Treadmill for You Can Be a Workout; Nanci Hellmich; January 2011
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