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So you've been looking for a treadmill buying guide? Look no further! After reading this page, you will know: As we mentioned earlier, the demand of treadmills is still on the rise. This increase results in a greater number of models and features to attract the growing population of runners. However, some models are geared to please a certain runner demographic. Whether you are young, old, overweight, or lean, we suggest buying a treadmill for no less than $1,800. Cheap treadmills are known to breakdown in the long run and spending a little more on your treadmill will ensure limited maintenance and repairs throughout the lifetime of your machine. Steps to buying a treadmill 1- Before looking at models, you need to address the most important question! Who will be using the treadmill and for what reason. It’s essential that you assess your needs and goals. For example, a low end treadmill may be suitable for a 13 yr old boy (who weighs 120 lbs), but not an individual who weighs 250 lbs. Assessing your goals will help you determine what type of treadmill you seek. 2- Start looking for a treadmill from treadmill manufacturers. These fitness equipment specialists offer better quality machines. Refer to our list of treadmill brands and verify which manufacturer is for you. 3- Go out and test the treadmill. Don’t be afraid to devote your time in testing these machines. Remember, you are not paying 20$ for this. It’s a big investment so be sure to make the right choice. It can be hard enough getting yourself to exercise on a consistent basis, imagine trying to motivate yourself to jog on a treadmill that you don’t even like! Treadmill features and specifications Now that you know the steps to buying a treadmill, the following section will list the features to pay attention to. Belts Belts come in the form of one ply or two ply. For a higher durability belt, the two ply is suggested. Also, make sure that it is tight and there are no curvy edges; they receive lots of punishment. The constant usage of a treadmill will eventually wear out the belt. This is normal and it will eventually need to be replaced if you keep and use your treadmill for a long time. Control Console Ideally, you would want the control console to inform you of your speed, distance, and time. This is the bare minimum. Heart rate, calories burnt, calories burnt per hour, and average speed are other recommended stats. Make sure that these display buttons are easy to reach and very user friendly. *Note* - Nowadays, a new feature on treadmills is the the safety switches that turn off your treadmill in the case of an emergency. You must ensure that this switch is not located in the proximity of your arm motions. The last thing you want is your workout to be ruined due to a safety switch. Cushioning Also known as shock-absorption, cushioning is a very sensitive topic. If possible, you do not want a treadmill with too much cushion. Studies have shown that soft surfaces can harm the joints in the long run. On the other hand, you don’t want a surface that is harder than asphalt. If you have a history of joint problems, a softer surface may be the better option. If you are an advanced runner and would like to use a treadmill as a training machine, you may want a harder surface to simulate the roads. Deck The deck is the surface that the belt moves over. Unfortunately, most people don’t pay attention to them. You would want one that is lubricated to minimize friction with the belt. These higher quality decks result in less maintenance and repair. Try looking for reversible decks if possible, having one of these doubles its lifetime! Incline The incline option on a treadmill is highly recommended. You can vary your training routine or simulate outdoor conditions. Most quality treadmills offer inclines from 1-12 degrees. *Note* - Stability decreases with a higher inclination. Make sure that the treadmill is not too unstable when running at a high inclination. Motors The motor is what will power the treadmill. The specification that you should pay attention to is the continuous duty of the motor, measured in horsepower. It is the power dedicated to continuous and steady use. There should be no struggle, glitches, or any abnormal events while running. If any of those situations are to arise, it may be due to a weak motor. A 1.5 continuous duty horsepower motor should be the minimum requirement. Noise The noise plays an important factor in determining where you will place your treadmill. The louder it is, the more likely you are to isolate your machine. So when you test any treadmill, try to find one that runs smoothly and quietly. Size The size of the treadmill is very crucial. You would like to have a belt width large enough to feel comfortable and open. Having a belt that is too narrow will alter your form and mechanics, whether consciously, or subconsciously. Also, having a belt that’s too short can also affect your mechanics of running. Search for a treadmill in the 55-60 inch length range, but no less. Also, a width of minimum 16 inches is encouraged. The last thing you want is to feel closed in and trapped. Make sure you can run in a comfortable manner. Speed A speed of 1-10 MPH is all you need. Some offer speeds of up to 12 MPH, but unless you are a competitive runner, the 10 MPH treadmill will be sufficient enough. Other treadmills have an upper speed limit of 8 MPH. This is ideal for the daily walker. Warranty Warranty is essential to buying a treadmill. Usually the length of the warranty reflects the price of the treadmill. Nowadays, some manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty. Although this may come at a higher price, it may be worth it. That sums up the buying treadmill guide. Use this guide properly and you will be well on your way to purchasing the right treadmill. Return from Treadmill buying guide to Treadmills (Home Page)
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