What should I Look for when Buying a Treadmill?
- Treadmill Cost
- Manual vs Motorized Treadmills
- Running Surface
- Size
- Cushioning
- Technology and Features
- Speed and Incline
- Warranty
A treadmill is by far the most popular exercise equipment. It is customizable for every fitness level and ideal for at-home and gym use. Buying a treadmill is a great investment for anyone looking to have exercise equipment in their home. This way, you don’t have to go to the gym to work out.
Exercising on a treadmill is fun and easy, but finding a good treadmill that matches your budget and fitness needs is not a walk in the park. Today, the market is flooded with machines from different brands for you to choose from. This can end up being a taxing and unpleasant task, especially if you are new to fitness.
When you are looking to buy a treadmill, there are several factors you should take into consideration before you settle on a particular machine. Let’s get started.
Treadmill Cost
This is the first thing you should consider when looking to buy a treadmill. The cost of treadmills is different from one model to the other based on the brand, size, and features it offers. When making your selection, it is important that you buy the highest quality treadmill you can afford.
Just like any other machine, the more expensive the treadmill is, the more features it has and the higher the quality. This translates to it being comfortable, quiet, simple to use, and reliable.
The cost of treadmills ranges from a few hundred dollars to about $4,500 for commercial models. Set a budget depending on your fitness goals and needs, then look for a model that aligns with the budget you have set.
Manual vs Motorized Treadmills
Treadmills are classified into two categories: manual and motorized. Most modern treadmills are motorized, there are some manual models still available.
Manual treadmills have no motor to run the belt. The treadmill will only begin to move through the movement of your feet. They are cheap to acquire and maintain as they do not require electricity. Furthermore, they are ideal for walking rather than running. This makes them the ideal choice for seniors.
However, manual treadmills have their own downsides. First, they have fewer features compared to motorized treadmills. They are also less sturdy and require more effort from the runner for them to operate.
Motorized treadmills on the other hand have motors powered by electricity. These treadmills are suitable for running, jogging, and walking as well.
They provide various settings for speed and incline to spice up your workouts. They are also customizable to match the needs of various fitness enthusiasts, no matter their age or fitness level.
The main downside of motorized treadmills is that they are more expensive to acquire and maintain as well.
Running Surface
A treadmill’s running surface is also known as the deck or belt. With this very important treadmill component, you should look for the length and width of the running surface and the belt thickness.
The length ranges from 45 inches to 60 inches. Treadmills with a shorter length of 50” and below are ideal for walkers. On the other hand, those with a long surface are better for jogging and walking, especially for users who have long strides.
The width of treadmill belts ranges from 16 inches to 22 inches. If a treadmill has a wider frame, it should also have a wider deck and vice versa.
When it comes to the belt thickness, the thicker it is the better. It will provide ample cushioning which reduces the effect on your joints and legs.
Size
The next thing you should consider is the size of the treadmill. The amount of space you have in your home will dictate the treadmill you get.
If you live in an apartment or studio where space is limited, go for a treadmill that has a compact footprint.
It is also wise to get a model that has a foldable design so it will be easy to stow when you are not using it.
Cushioning
Cushioning is an important feature that every treadmill should have. It softens the impact on the joints and knees and makes your workout more bearable.
If you need a treadmill for walking, try and look for a model that offers lots of cushioning. But if you are training for a marathon or road running, a treadmill with less cushioning is the best.
Technology and Features
Treadmills come in different technologies and features so you are able to choose a machine that will help you take your fitness a notch higher and reach your goals as well.
To provide a little more luxury, some models come with a large touchscreen loaded with tons of workout apps and wireless compatibility. Such treadmills are the best as they help break the boredom that comes with treadmilling.
Other treadmills have built-in device holders where you can place your phone or tablet. You will also find the high-end models having built-in water holders and cooling fans for additional convenience.
Speed and Incline
For motorized treadmills, it is important that you check the speed and incline offered. Typically, a model that offers a wide range of speed and incline levels is the best.
It will be suitable for use by a wide range of users irrespective of their fitness level. A treadmill that offers a higher incline will also add variety to your workout and simulate real road running.
Warranty
Lastly, consider the warranty. No matter how much the treadmill costs, ensure that you pick a model that has a good warranty.
Warranties provide a clue to durability and quality. So, the longer the warranty a treadmill comes with, the better the quality.
Final Thoughts
Once you purchase a treadmill, you will have the freedom to exercise at any time you want.
When making your selection, go for reputable brands even if you have to pay more for their machines. That way, you can rest assured that you are investing your hard-earned money in a machine that will last.
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