Before Buying a Treadmill

A treadmill is a good tool for use in bad weather, dangerous outside conditions, lack of time to get to a comfortable place for running, etc. It is also a good tool to make your run more comfortable having a good control of your speed, workout length and even of some biomechanical and physiological parameters.

There is absolutely no end to the options you have when it comes to treadmills these days. From small, compact models that fold up or practically slide under your bed to expensive, fancy models that cost thousands and do everything but exercise for you, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the many models and features they offer and to make the decision as to what will be best for you.

The decision to buy a treadmill is a step in the right direction towards better health. If you've decided to buy a treadmill, there are a few things you should consider before taking the plunge.

• Price
  

  The first thing you need to consider is how much you should spend in order to get a good quality machine. This really depends on what kind of use you and your family expects to get out of the treadmill. Treadmills can vary greatly in price depending on the type and the features. Having said that though, with treadmills as with most exercise machines, it is very much a case of "you get what you pay for". A more expensive model will typically be much more stable, have a more spacious running surface and come with useful added features.

• User Weight
  

  If any of the users in your family weigh over 100 kg then you should increase your budget a bit for a stronger motor and higher grade belt and deck, even if you are only planning on using the treadmill for walking.

• Folding vs. Non-Folding
  

  Many folding treadmills are only suitable for walking. This is because to make the folding mechanism work, the footprint of the machine is reduced resulting in less stability especially when the deck is inclined. This lack of stability not only reduces the quality of your workout but also reduces the ability of the treadmill to withstand the constant pounding that running puts on the frame, console and lower electronics.

  If you're going to be doing a lot of running then a non-folding treadmill is still your best bet, especially in a basement or somewhere you can dedicate the floor space.

• Manual Treadmills vs. Motorized Treadmills
  

  Due to the difference in cost, many people are tempted to buy a manual treadmill instead of a motorized treadmill. But manual treadmills have many drawbacks vs. their motorized cousins. They are often difficult to get moving without using an extreme incline, and once moving you can't change the incline. The low price also often means less sturdy construction.

• Incline
  

  The vast majority of treadmills come with some sort of incline adjustment. Adding incline intensifies your workout so if you are buying a treadmill with quite a low maximum speed it might be worth making sure that it has suitable incline levels to add that extra bit of variety.

• Treadmill Stability and Smooth Ride
  

  While buying, test the treadmills wearing your workout shoes and clothes. A shaky or jerky ride is unacceptable. The hand rails should feel sturdy enough to support you and be in a good position to grip easily and not block your arm motion. The belt must be wide enough and long enough for your stride.

• Treadmill Workout Features
  

  Boredom kills treadmill workouts. Choose a model that has the most pre-set and programmable workouts to vary pace and incline. The incline and speed should be easily adjustable from the console. A pulse monitor is good. A water bottle holder is essential. Some models plug into a video or audio player or the internet for new workouts. Music or videos can get you going in the right direction.

• Noise and Space
  

  The treadmill needs to work in your space. How noisy is it? If you plan to watch TV or listen to music, you need to be able to hear those over the treadmill itself. A model that looks small in the store can turn into an elephant in your spare room. Check its size when folded or stored and test how easy it is to move.

• Warranties
  

  Always check out the warranties offered on any treadmill you are considering. A good, durable treadmill from a good manufacturer should be backed by generous warranty. Generally speaking, the longer the warranty offered, the better the quality of the treadmill. Most treadmills come with at least a one year parts and labour warranty. Better quality products often come with a two or three years parts warranty. Machines from a higher-end manufacturer will often come with a lifetime warranty on the frame and on some models even the motor will be backed by a lifetime warranty.

• Try It Out
  

  The most important thing to do before buying a treadmill is to try it out. Make a list of treadmills and call sporting goods stores to see if they're available locally. Spend at least 10 minutes on each treadmill. Make sure it's quiet and that it doesn't shake, even when running. While you're there, see where the drink holder is. Is there a place to put your iPod?

A treadmill can be a great way to get in shape. Regular exercise on a treadmill can increase your body's metabolism. The higher your metabolism the more fat will continue to be burned, even if you're resting. Most users will admit the effectiveness of the treadmill in losing weight. However, its success is determined by the commitment of the treadmill user. It's not just a program that needs to be followed in this instance, it's a lifestyle change that allows the person serious about losing weight to eat right, exercise frequently and then feel the positive results. So get out those sweats and get in shape today, you will love working out on your new treadmill.