Regular participation in a cardiovascular program is key to weight loss. Having a treadmill at home can make exercising easier and save money. A treadmill purchase can be a great investment in your health and the health of your family. Making an informed purchasing decision is easy with online resources and sporting good stores.
Buying Used
Step 1
Look to purchase a used treadmill, check local online classifieds at craigslist.com or the online version of your local newspaper.
Step 2
Call any sellers to get information about why they're selling and the make and model of the treadmill. Check online for reviews for that particular treadmill model and learn more about the features available on each type of treadmill. Note any defects and other problems that users have experienced
Step 3
Check on as many treadmills for sale as possible in your area to have the best possible options. Schedule an appointment to see the treadmill being sold by a private seller.
Step 4
Find repair technicians in your neighborhood. Call them and ask about any models you've discovered from online shopping. Ask about the cost to repair a treadmill and any inexpensive tools you might need to perform your own routine repairs.
Step 5
Go take a look at your top choices and be prepared to use the treadmill as you would for your exercise program.
Step 6
Go with questions for your seller and wear workout clothes to test the machine. Take note of how the belt feels, look at the console and any other features. Let the belt run for 5-10 minutes also to see if there are any problems with the motor.
Step 7
Ask the seller if the treadmill is still under warranty. Find out if the treadmill can be delivered or if you need to come pick it up.
Step 8
After all your treadmill testing make a decision. Choose your treadmill based on how you'll use it, price, online reviews and ease of maintenance. If you're happy with what you've found from an independent seller, make an offer. Offer $100 less than the asking price and see if you can negotiate.
Buying New
Step 1
Visit a sporting goods store in your area to take a look at treadmills.
Step 2
Wear comfortable clothing and running or walking shoes so that you can test any treadmill models that you're interested in.
Step 3
Go to the store with questions for the sales staff. Tell them how you intend to use your treadmill and ask if the treadmill is good for your chosen activity.
Step 4
Ask if the treadmill can be delivered or if you will need to come into the store to pick it up. Ask about the warranty on the treadmill.
Step 5
Write down all the treadmill models that you like. Go home and research them online. Check to see that the treadmill is priced fairly, check reviews and find out if there are maintenance issues. Make your decision based on reviews, ease of use, cost of maintenance, and price.
Tips and Warnings
- Budget for your treadmill purchase. Used and new treadmills can be a huge expense. If the treadmill is used, let it run at top speed for a few minutes to test the motor. Some brand of treadmills turn off if they get overheated. Better to discover that at the seller's home before making a purchase. Go to the sporting goods store armed with questions. Tells the sales staff how you intend to use your treadmill. Purchase a treadmill for your specific activity. Treadmills for walking only may be a little less expensive than those for the avid runner. The more you spend on a treadmill, the sturdier it should be.
- If a seller isn't willing to let you test the treadmill, don't buy it. Check your treadmill online before purchase. Some makes and models have been recalled for safety reasons.
Things You'll Need
- Computer
- Paper
- Pencil
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