One of the most popular fitness exercise machines is the home treadmill. Simple to use they give a great cardio workout and can be bought for under $500 although if you want a more sophisticated model with extensive features you can pay up to $5000. Most models are electric powered although there are some user powered models. A big advantage, of course, in having your own treadmill is that you can exercise whenever you want to regardless of the outside weather. Walking is an excellent exercise but if you have to go out in the cold in winter you may be put off exercising. Much better to work out in the warmth of your own home! You can also watch TV or read a book while working out to stave off the boredom!
if you don’t want to run on the treadmill, walking is still an excellent exercise and you can slowly increase the pace as your fitness improves. It will be adaptable for all the family from the very fit to the ‘not so fit’! Treadmills are also very good for raising the heart rate and burning calories even while walking at a fast pace. Better quality treadmills will be more efficient at cushioning your joints as you run although if you have a severe joint problem you will be better with an elliptical trainer which is a lower impact exercise.
Some home treadmills can be folded up to put away but it is better if possible to leave them set up as having to drag them out of a cupboard can severely dampen down your enthusiasm!
Features that may be present, especially on the more expensive models, include heart rate monitors, distance monitors and safety keys to instantly stop the motion if you fall. Some other features that are not really necessary but can contribute to your workout include cup holders and fans. You will probably want a treadmill that can be set on an incline to intensify the workout. Models that automatically change the incline with a preset program are easier to use than those that are manually adjusted but this is usually not available on cheaper models.
Before you buy a treadmill consider how you will be using it. If you will be mostly walking you can get away with buying a cheaper machine. On the other hand if you are going to be using it for vigorous jogging you may need to consider a better quality, sturdier treadmill to stand up to the strain. Also consider how tall you, or any other people who may be using the treadmill are. Taller people will need a treadmill with a longer belt. Most people prefer an electric treadmill rather than a manually operated one.
Treadmills made of high alloy steel or aluminium will last longer and be able to stand up to heavier use. Make sure you get a good warranty as this will also give an indication of the lifetime expected for the machine. Although a few treadmills are human powered you will probably want to buy one with a motor driven belt. Larger motors tend to last longer as they are less strained while working and generally run cooler so look for a model with at least a 2 to 3 hp motor.
As with all home exercise equipment don’t opt for the cheapest home treadmill without looking into the disadvantages. It can be a false economy as, if you are not getting a good workout or the machine is not comfortable and enjoyable to use it will just gather dust in the corner of the room! Pay a little more to get the features and quality that you need so that you get the best workout you can and your motivation stays high.
If you would like to make a comment, please fill out the form below.