Guide to buying a treadmill
acording to research conducted by American Sports Data, Inc., treadmill exercise is the most popular exercise there is - with more than 37 million participants in 1999 (that's up a whopping 743 percent from 1987).
No wonder so many people have taken to exercising on running machines and treadmills - it's an excellent way to lose weight and get in great cardiovascular shape. If you're in the market for a home treadmill, you've got a wide variety or products available from which to choose. It's very important, however, to find a treadmill that will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals so make sure you consider all the important factors you buy.
How much should you pay for a Treadmill?
How much money do you want to spend? The old saying, "You get what you pay for," directly applies to all home fitness equipment but especially to running machines. While it may be tempting to take advantage of a good deal, an inferior treadmill won't deliver the results you want, and it won't be as sturdy, dependable or enjoyable to use. Consider this purchase an investment - a good treadmill will last you for years.
Who will use the Treadmill?
The size and weight of the user, as well as how he or she plans to use it, e.g., walking or training for a marathon, can make a difference to the kind of treadmill you purchase.
Consider any medical or physiological factors specific to the user e.g. have they had any problems with ankles, knees, hips or spine? Running is a high impact exercise and for all runners it is worth investing in a treadmill with excellent deck cushioning. Using a running machine ? even if it is only for brisk walking can offer significant benefits for cardio-rehab patients from certain heart rate control programmes.
How many people will be using your treadmill and how far will they be running?
You need to consider the number of people who will be using your running machine. A treadmill's durability becomes increasingly important if several people will be logging time and miles on it.
Where will you keep the Treadmill?
Shopping for a home treadmill is like shopping for a sofa; you need to plan where you are going to put it and make sure that you have the right space for it. You want to be sure your treadmill will fit where you plan to exercise It is no coincidence that the best treadmills are also the largest treadmills - a large walking/running surface is desirable as virtually nobody walks or runs in a perfect straight line, particularly when your pushing the speed limits. At higher speeds your stride length increases considerably, and you will find you need the largest possible running surface. If space is at a premium, there are now many good quality folding treadmills worth considering.
Tips to help you select your Treadmill
When buying your treadmill you should go to a specialist fitness equipment store that offers you a good choice of quality running machines and independent advice. You will want to speak to someone who can help you select a suitable treadmill for your needs and help you understand the features as well as how to maintain your treadmill.
Try out several treadmills. It's important to test different models of treadmills before making your final choice. If the machine doesn't feel comfortable to you, you won't use it, so wear your kit and running shoes and give each treadmill a five-minute try. Look for sturdy construction including a wide and flexible running surface, an easy-to read console and a variety of programming options, including those that let you get going quickly or that let you customise and personalise your workouts.
