Several Things to Consider when Purchasing a Treadmill
You have decided to start working out at home, and one of the pieces of equipment that you are thinking of buying is a treadmill. However, do not run out and buy the first one you see advertised in the newspaper or at the sporting goods store. Here are some things to consider when purchasing a treadmill.
- The first thing to consider is the power behind the equipment. You will need a treadmill with at least 1.5 continuous duty peak performance. A Pulse Width Modulated motor will stand up to the test of time over a Solid State Control Rectifier motor. High torque at low revolutions also equals more power and durability.
- The next thing to consider is the display console. Some will come with a display panel rivaling the Star Trek Enterprise, while others will have very few options. More options do mean more money spent, however you do need a display that covers speed, distance, time and pace. Some people also like to take advantage of a treadmill that offers preprogrammed workouts for ease of use.
- The deck of the treadmill should be long enough to accommodate your full running stride. Test run the treadmill out before you buy to see if you feel comfortable on it. For most people, the deck should be at least 52 inches long and 16 inches wide in order to use it comfortably. A deck that is too short will only hinder your workout.
- The frame of your treadmill should be a high alloy steel frame as that is much more durable than an aluminum one. Plastic covered wood or painted particleboard is not durable at all and should be avoided at all costs.
- The rollers for the belt should be solid and a minimum of two inches in diameter. This will give you the most durability and comfort while using your treadmill.
- If you want your treadmill to simulate outdoor forces for a more challenging workout, consider getting one that inclines. Make sure that you test out the incline before purchasing to ensure that you know how to use it and are comfortable with it.
- If there are children in your household or if you are new to treadmill workouts, you may want to consider getting some extra safety features for you and your family’s protection. One option is a safety key, which is required to turn the treadmill on. In some models, the key is also to be attached to the runner so if the runner falls the key is pulled out and the treadmill stops. Other models will have an emergency stop button that does just that – when pushed the treadmill stops immediately.
- If you plan on keeping your treadmill around for a while, another thing to consider is the warranty. The higher quality treadmills will usually come with a longer and better warranty than the lower quality treadmills. You may also look into the availability of repairs in your area – if something breaks you do not want to be driving to the next state to get it repaired.
- For the best workout, you are going to want a treadmill with a heart rate monitor to ensure that you are hitting your target heart rate range. There are several monitor styles available, including chest straps, finger or ear clips, or hand contact ones. Chest straps are usually the most effective. You should be comfortable with using the heart rate monitor and understand how it works.
Lastly there are some deal breakers for buying your treadmill, whether new or used.
- The motor should always run quiet and smooth regardless of whether it is your top running speed or the slowest walking pace. Test it out first, and if it becomes rough or loud do not buy it.
- The belt should always move smoothly regardless of speed as well. Watch to see that it does not skip, slip, or move around on the treadmill frame.
- The treadmill should feel comfortable to you and allow enough lengthy to accommodate your walking and running stride and size. It should always feel stable, even when in an inclined position. And you should understand how the controls work and be able to use them easily during use.
Armed with a little information, you can now go out and find the treadmill that is perfect for your workout needs.
Tags: exercise machines, home workout, treadmills