What better way to ensure that your child stays fit than by encouraging her to do regular workouts on a treadmill? Children's treadmills are a wonderful way to maintain or achieve a healthy weight while increasing the cardiovascular strength that is so important for optimum health. Designed for kids between ages 4 and 8 years old, a child's treadmill is a great piece of equipment to have at home, especially for those days when the weather is bad. Walking and running on a treadmill is a wonderful way for children to work off extra energy while getting their bodies into tip top shape. Children's treadmills are designed with safety in mind. Unlike adult versions, they are not motorized and come with a belt that moves only when your child's feet are moving and stopping when your child stops.
What to Look for
Children's treadmills are manual versions of the motorized models that adults use. The average size for a child's treadmill is 50" long, 27" wide, 48" high, with a weight of 115 pounds. When shopping for a child's treadmill, look for a reinforced surface with an adjustable incline that allows for walking and running up hill once your child builds up stamina. Some children's treadmills have footprints on the surface, which makes it more fun for them to use. Children's treadmills are made with a welded steel frame that is created to support up to 350 pounds of weight. Look for padded safety side handrails that allow your child to hold on as he exercises. Some children's treadmills come with additional features such as games that can be played while walking or running. Other features include a computer read-out area that provides information on heart rate, speed, time, distance and the amount of calories burned.
Common Pitfalls
Make sure you supervise your child at all times until she feels confident walking and running on her treadmill. When your child becomes proficient on the treadmill, this doesn't mean that she can use yours if you have one at home. Adult treadmills are motorized and can be dangerous for children, causing them to fall or get caught in the belt if the machine is not turned off properly. Keep your adult treadmill unplugged and out of the way to avoid potential hazards. Remember that exercise machines are not substitutes for a healthy diet. Make sure your child gets plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, and drinks enough water every day to eliminate the dehydration that can occur from exercising.
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