Buying a treadmill? There are so many brands and features to choose from. How do you know which treadmill is best for you?
This treadmill buyers guide will tell you exactly what to look for when buying your treadmill. Knowing this will help you choose the best treadmill for your fitness needs (and it might even save you some money!)
So here's what to look at when choosing a treadmill:
Motor:
The motor is the heart of your treadmill. Motor power is measured by horsepower - HP. Unless your treadmill has a strong motor (at least 1.5 horsepower) you can quickly wear it out, even if only moderately walking.
When looking at motors and horsepower, there are two different ratings:
- Continuous Duty (which is the rating for steady, continual 24 hour motor use), and
- Peak Duty (which is the maximum power potential, however it cannot be maintained).
When looking at treadmills you want to know the Continuous Duty motor power. It's recommended that you go with at least a 1.75 HP continuous duty (CD) motor (preferably higher).
For runners or those planning heavy use of their treadmills, experts recommend at least a 2.5 - 3 HP continuous duty motor so that your motor doesn't quickly burn out on you and end up costing you in expensive treadmill repairs.
Tip: Many cheaper treadmill brands will often give you the Peak Duty motor power (since it's always higher than the Continuous Duty rating) just to impress unsuspecting buyers. Make sure you know the continuous duty rating when comparing units.
Frame:
There are two types of frames: aluminum or steel (NEVER plastic!). Steel is heavier than aluminum which potentially increases stability. However steel may also rust or corrode from sweat (unlike aluminum).
So there are advantages and disadvantages to both and it really boils down to a matter of personal choice. One thing to keep in mind however is that aluminum is more expensive than steel so it may be built into the price of the treadmill.
Belt:
Average treadbelt widths range from 17" to 22" and lengths from 51" to 61". Never go below a belt width of 16 " and make sure that the belt is long enough to accomodate your stride.
If you are tall and/or have long legs, it's better to go with a longer belt (54" or more). Make sure you also consider anyone else who will be using the treadmill and their height as well.
Cushioning:
Treadmill cushioning is the ability of the treadmill to absorb the force of your step. Better cushioning means lower impact on your joints and ligaments. Cushioning is extremely important as poor cushioning can cause injury and muscle strain.
Many quality treadmills have their own form of cushioning system to protect you. Make sure your treadmill has a quality cushioning system to protect your joints over the long run.
Stability:
According to Runner's World, stability is the most important quality in a treadmill. Stability is how smooth a ride the treadmill provides you. There should be no shaking or wobbling when you start to run.
Generally with treadmills you get what you pay for. For a high stability, high quality treadmill you should be willing to spend at least $1000, and definitely more if you plan on using it heavily. There's no use spending $500-600 on something you're scared to use.
Console/Display:
Consider both the layout and user-friendliness of the information displays and controls. This is largely a matter of personal preference since some people want to see a constant display of calories burned or miles covered,etc.
For safety concerns, make sure the speed and incline controls are prominently displayed and easy to reach.
Heart Rate Monitor/Control:
Again, this is largely a personal preference whether or not you want to monitor your heart rate. A heart rate monitor simply shows you at what rate your heart is beating while you work out.
Some people like to take a step up and get a heart rate control which can actually adjust the treadmill pace to keep you in your target fat-burning zone.
Warranty:
Treadmill warranties vary across the board and again, you usually get what you pay for. Don't waste your money buying an added warranty when most quality treadmills include a good warranty in the price already.
Tip: The warranty gives you a good idea of the quality of parts used in building the treadmill (ever wondered why those cheap department store brands only offer you 90 day warranties?).
A quality warranty will include at least 10 years on the frame, 3 years on the motor, 2 years on parts and 1 year on labor. (Keep in mind that the motor is usually the most expensive to fix).
Price:
A quality motorized treadmill is going to cost you at least $1000. The quality of treadmills (cushioning, construction, parts, quality) drops substantially once you go below $800.
According to expert Gregory Florez, spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise, "Just about anything under $900 is not made to be used over the long haul."
There are ways to save on your treadmill of course (buy direct, online wholesalers, etc.) but the bottom line is that a treadmill is an investment in your health. It will last you 10 years or more so you really want to invest in a quality unit built to last.
Where to Buy A Treadmill:
There are a number of options here but they mainly fall into 2 categories:
1) Store
2) Online
- Store Advantages: You can actually try out the treadmill.
- Store Disadvantages: You'll probably pay more for the same treadmill you can get online simply because the store has overhead costs and salespeople to pay. Stores will also charge you for shipping and delivery and you'll also pay sales tax.
- Internet Disadvantages: You can't try out the treadmill
- Internet Advantages: You can save a lot of money buying direct from the manufacturer, sometimes $600 or more. You can usually get free shipping and save on sales tax too. Plus you have a larger selection of treadmill to choose from so you may be able to find a treadmill that is more suited to your needs.
It really comes down to what you're comfortable with.
So that's it! You now know what to look for when buying a treadmill. Just remember to take your time and select a treadmill that fits your fitness goals. And you're guaranteed to find the best treadmill for you.
Showing posts with label cheap treadmill. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cheap treadmill. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
What Most Buyers Don't Know About Treadmill Ratings
If you're buying a treadmill, chances are you'll want to research before you buy. Everyone wants to get the best deal for a discount price. They also want to find the best treadmill to suit their workout needs.
So you'll probably be interested in looking at various treadmill ratings or reviews. But why are there so many different ratings and which one is the most accurate? Here's a few things most buyers don't know about treadmill ratings.
There are really 2 types of treadmill ratings:
1) Consumer Ratings
2) Expert Ratings
So you'll probably be interested in looking at various treadmill ratings or reviews. But why are there so many different ratings and which one is the most accurate? Here's a few things most buyers don't know about treadmill ratings.
There are really 2 types of treadmill ratings:
1) Consumer Ratings
2) Expert Ratings
User Treadmill Ratings:
Consumer treadmill ratings are done by the layperson who has bought and used the specific treadmill. Many websites allow anyone to go online and post a review of their treadmill.
Customer reviews and ratings can be very valuable when searching for a treadmill - however keep in mind several things:
#1) No treadmill has a 100% perfect track record. Even the BEST treadmill manufacturers sometimes make a dud.
And it's usually the people that have had BAD experiences that leave negative reviews of their treadmills, not the many that have had good experiences with the same treadmill.
They have every right to do this and hopefully the treadmill manufacturers read these reviews and do something about them. Just remember that one bad review doesn't prove it's a low quality brand.
#2) The treadmill industry is growing more competitive each year. And marketing is a huge portion of the treadmill industry since treadmill manufacturers KNOW you're going to research treadmill ratings before you buy.
So while I'm not making any accusations, I have read 'customer reviews' that are clearly NOT written by the average buyer. They sound like they're written by somebody working for the competition - someone well versed in the art of sales psychology and who knows more about treadmills than the average person. Again, not making any accusations here - just keep this in mind when reading user ratings online.
Rule of Thumb: Use common sense. If it sounds like it's written by a treadmill salesperson, take the treadmill review with a grain of salt.
Expert Treadmill Ratings:
There are also expert treadmill ratings. These are the ratings written by the experts in the fitness industry. People like Consumer Reports, Runner's World, Consumer Guide, Men's Health, Prevention Magzine are just a few out there. These people rate and review various treadmills at various times in the year.
While these ratings are much less likely to be tainted by biased reviewers, here are a few cautions to keep in mind while reading them:
#1) Each rater has a different rating system and may rate treadmills on such factors as price, cushioning, stability, quietness, belt area, warranty, console, electronics, programs, incline and quality of parts.
So while one reviewer may put more emphasis on cushioning the other may put more emphasis on warranty. It's nothing to get confused over - just understand that different experts value different features. They'll usually have an area where they list exactly how they rated the treadmills and which features they valued highly in their review.
#2) Expert ratings also usually don't have time to look at EVERY treadmill brand on the market. Nobody does. We've been reviewing treadmills for over 3 years and we still haven't covered all the brands.
So just because a certain brand isn't in the ratings, doesn't make it a poor quality brand. Try to find other reviews on a brand if you can't find it in your favorite expert ratings list.
One last thing: Many treadmill ratings are also based on comparison to other similarly priced treadmills on the market.
So if you have a $1000 treadmill that gets 5 stars - that doesn't necessarily mean that it's better than a $2000 treadmill that gets 4 stars. It means that compared to other $1000 treadmills it is one of the best values.
By remembering these things when sifting through treadmill ratings, you're less likely to be confused. And it will be easier to choose the best quality treadmill for your needs.
Buy Treadmills The Easy Way
A well-constructed treadmill is a piece of home exercise equipment that every member of your family can enjoy, from young to old. Treadmills have become the hottest home exercise equipment choice. If you are yet to invest in a serious piece of indoor exercise fitness equipment like a treadmill then never fear because help is at hand.
With treadmills you need to watch out for the impact involved when your feet hit the belt; your body absorbs up to two and a half times your body weight. A few treadmill models are powered by the user rather than a motor. Some treadmills fold up for easy storage which makes them an ideal choice for those with limited space in a small apartment, small house or condo.
The console indicates belt speed and other factors, such as heart rate, mph, distance, etc. Features such as extra cup holders, built-in fans, CD players and other electronic gizmos may be handy but not essential for you to get an ideal workout. The monitor indicates belt speed and other factors, such as heart rate, mph, and distance.
Safety features on a treadmill are especially important if you plan to work out alone or if you have small children who might accidentally start up the treadmill.
One feature that is absolutely necessary in a home treadmill is an emergency stop button or a safety key that automatically shuts off the power if you should stumble, trip or fall. Many of the treadmills available have the ability to add an incline to your workout to duplicate running or walking uphill, therefore increasing the intensity of a workout.
Notice that some treadmill heart rate monitors clip onto an ear or, for more accurate readings, strap on to the chest. A pre-programmed workout registers your heart rate without being connected to the treadmill by a cord or wire.
Treadmills are a very important investment, regardless of the price; if it's not right for you, you don't want to find this out after you've set the treadmill up at home. Consider bringing your water bottle and towel to the treadmill store and try out their treadmills. Any treadmill with a belt that causes jerky movements while you walk or run should be avoided.
Noise from the smallest repetitive sound can drive you nuts over a period of time and provide you with one more reason not to exercise. If you're looking for a heavy-duty treadmill that can withstand running as well as walking, be prepared to spend more money. You'll want a treadmill with an aluminum or high alloy steel frame that's strong enough to support the heaviest runner who'll be using it.
If there's a treadmill you've enjoyed using regularly at your local gym or fitness center check to see if there's a home version available in your price range.
Make sure to add in the cost of shipping when purchasing a treadmill online; quality models can be heavy, but some manufacturers do offer free shipping. It's best to get a treadmill that has a warranty that lasts for at least a year.
You'll probably want to buy a unit with a motor that delivers 1.5 to 3 continuous horsepower. Purchasing fitness equipment over the Internet has grown at a fast pace over the past few years. Most manufacturers of commercial treadmills found in gyms and health clubs also produce home versions. Make sure to check out the warranty, this is very important.
Be careful, any type of jogging or running, whether on a treadmill or not, puts strain on leg and hip joints. The more programs the treadmill offers the more you can vary your workout and then more likely you'll continue exercising on a regular basis.
Selections of preprogrammed exercise routines are not essential to obtaining a good workout from a treadmill, but they do help to provide motivation. Better quality treadmills provide excellent cushioning to limit the impact on knees, ankles, hips and lower backs.
And remember, home exercise treadmills are a large investment financially and in your fitness and much thought and preparation should go into the purchase of any new treadmill. Buying a treadmill is a major purchase for most people. A treadmill is a good investment for anyone who has decided to make a conscious effort to become healthy and fit.
With treadmills you need to watch out for the impact involved when your feet hit the belt; your body absorbs up to two and a half times your body weight. A few treadmill models are powered by the user rather than a motor. Some treadmills fold up for easy storage which makes them an ideal choice for those with limited space in a small apartment, small house or condo.
The console indicates belt speed and other factors, such as heart rate, mph, distance, etc. Features such as extra cup holders, built-in fans, CD players and other electronic gizmos may be handy but not essential for you to get an ideal workout. The monitor indicates belt speed and other factors, such as heart rate, mph, and distance.
Safety features on a treadmill are especially important if you plan to work out alone or if you have small children who might accidentally start up the treadmill.
One feature that is absolutely necessary in a home treadmill is an emergency stop button or a safety key that automatically shuts off the power if you should stumble, trip or fall. Many of the treadmills available have the ability to add an incline to your workout to duplicate running or walking uphill, therefore increasing the intensity of a workout.
Notice that some treadmill heart rate monitors clip onto an ear or, for more accurate readings, strap on to the chest. A pre-programmed workout registers your heart rate without being connected to the treadmill by a cord or wire.
Treadmills are a very important investment, regardless of the price; if it's not right for you, you don't want to find this out after you've set the treadmill up at home. Consider bringing your water bottle and towel to the treadmill store and try out their treadmills. Any treadmill with a belt that causes jerky movements while you walk or run should be avoided.
Noise from the smallest repetitive sound can drive you nuts over a period of time and provide you with one more reason not to exercise. If you're looking for a heavy-duty treadmill that can withstand running as well as walking, be prepared to spend more money. You'll want a treadmill with an aluminum or high alloy steel frame that's strong enough to support the heaviest runner who'll be using it.
If there's a treadmill you've enjoyed using regularly at your local gym or fitness center check to see if there's a home version available in your price range.
Make sure to add in the cost of shipping when purchasing a treadmill online; quality models can be heavy, but some manufacturers do offer free shipping. It's best to get a treadmill that has a warranty that lasts for at least a year.
You'll probably want to buy a unit with a motor that delivers 1.5 to 3 continuous horsepower. Purchasing fitness equipment over the Internet has grown at a fast pace over the past few years. Most manufacturers of commercial treadmills found in gyms and health clubs also produce home versions. Make sure to check out the warranty, this is very important.
Be careful, any type of jogging or running, whether on a treadmill or not, puts strain on leg and hip joints. The more programs the treadmill offers the more you can vary your workout and then more likely you'll continue exercising on a regular basis.
Selections of preprogrammed exercise routines are not essential to obtaining a good workout from a treadmill, but they do help to provide motivation. Better quality treadmills provide excellent cushioning to limit the impact on knees, ankles, hips and lower backs.
And remember, home exercise treadmills are a large investment financially and in your fitness and much thought and preparation should go into the purchase of any new treadmill. Buying a treadmill is a major purchase for most people. A treadmill is a good investment for anyone who has decided to make a conscious effort to become healthy and fit.
Buying Treadmills Online User-Friendly Tips
Today, fitness equipment manufacturers are trying to meet the high demand for home exercise treadmills. There are many competing models of treadmills, from inexpensive to expensive, to choose between. Of all the different types of home exercise equipment that have come and gone, the home exercise treadmill has lasted throughout the years.
AC motors that are found in some treadmill units run at one continuous speed and rely on a transmission to regulate speed whereas units powered by DC motors use variable voltage to regulate the speed at which the belt spins. A few treadmill models, which have rollers, are powered by the user rather than a motor. Treadmill cushioning absorbs the force of your step; get good cushioning to lower the impact on your joints and ligaments.
Some treadmills monitor your heart by way of sensors built into the frame, which is gripped by your hands, but can only be done if you're walking not running. Less expensive treadmill models require you to manually change the incline, which can be very frustrating if you want to make adjustments midway through a workout session. One of the key things to remember is that the larger motors tend to run cooler and usually require less repair and maintenance.
A heart rate monitor is a very good, useful feature to look for on a machine. The newest models of treadmills come with many extra features that you may not need. Most treadmills come with an electronic console that displays workout feedback such as speed, distance traveled, time you've been working out, and calories burned.
A heart rate monitor enables a treadmill to automatically adjust the speed and/or the incline to keep your heart rate within the most optimum zone. Quite a few of the treadmills available today have the ability to add an incline to your workout to duplicate running or walking uphill, thereby increasing the intensity of your workout.
Keep in mind that what feels right to you may not accommodate others around you as comfortably. Most manufacturers of commercial treadmills found in gyms and health clubs also produce home versions. You might want to bring your water bottle and towel to the treadmill store and try out their treadmills.
One indication of the likely longevity of any treadmill is to check out the length of the manufacturer's warranty; the longer the better. Be careful not to believe the marketing hype if you're looking for a cheap treadmill; the truth is you get what you pay for. Buying a treadmill online has become the way to go for most people; it'll save you both time and a lot of money.
Do your research; treadmills are an important investment, regardless of the price, and if it's not right for you, you don't want to find out after you've set the treadmill up at home. Before buying, make sure the deck area provides enough space for you to exercise in comfort and the belt should work smoothly without slipping or sticking. Treadmill manufacturers are competing for your business and price wars are creating big savings for buyers.
Check out the level of noise that a treadmill makes during operation; something that many buyers overlook. Less expensive treadmill models may be fine for walkers but may not hold up as well for regular or seasoned runners.
The first thing to consider when shopping for a home treadmill is what you need it to do for you. The more incline variation offered in a treadmill unit, the more expensive the model will be.
Be careful, because any type of jogging or running, whether on a treadmill or not, puts strain on leg and hip joints. Selections of preprogrammed exercise routines are not essential to obtaining a good workout from a treadmill, but they do help to provide motivation. Better quality treadmills provide excellent cushioning to limit the impact on knees, ankles, hips and lower backs. The more programs the treadmill has to offer the more you can vary your workout and you'll be likely to continue exercising on a regular basis.
Besides spending your money on a treadmill make sure you spend time on it! By following the above tips you're sure to find the best treadmill for you. A treadmill is a good investment for anyone who has decided to make a conscious effort to become healthy and fit.
AC motors that are found in some treadmill units run at one continuous speed and rely on a transmission to regulate speed whereas units powered by DC motors use variable voltage to regulate the speed at which the belt spins. A few treadmill models, which have rollers, are powered by the user rather than a motor. Treadmill cushioning absorbs the force of your step; get good cushioning to lower the impact on your joints and ligaments.
Some treadmills monitor your heart by way of sensors built into the frame, which is gripped by your hands, but can only be done if you're walking not running. Less expensive treadmill models require you to manually change the incline, which can be very frustrating if you want to make adjustments midway through a workout session. One of the key things to remember is that the larger motors tend to run cooler and usually require less repair and maintenance.
A heart rate monitor is a very good, useful feature to look for on a machine. The newest models of treadmills come with many extra features that you may not need. Most treadmills come with an electronic console that displays workout feedback such as speed, distance traveled, time you've been working out, and calories burned.
A heart rate monitor enables a treadmill to automatically adjust the speed and/or the incline to keep your heart rate within the most optimum zone. Quite a few of the treadmills available today have the ability to add an incline to your workout to duplicate running or walking uphill, thereby increasing the intensity of your workout.
Keep in mind that what feels right to you may not accommodate others around you as comfortably. Most manufacturers of commercial treadmills found in gyms and health clubs also produce home versions. You might want to bring your water bottle and towel to the treadmill store and try out their treadmills.
One indication of the likely longevity of any treadmill is to check out the length of the manufacturer's warranty; the longer the better. Be careful not to believe the marketing hype if you're looking for a cheap treadmill; the truth is you get what you pay for. Buying a treadmill online has become the way to go for most people; it'll save you both time and a lot of money.
Do your research; treadmills are an important investment, regardless of the price, and if it's not right for you, you don't want to find out after you've set the treadmill up at home. Before buying, make sure the deck area provides enough space for you to exercise in comfort and the belt should work smoothly without slipping or sticking. Treadmill manufacturers are competing for your business and price wars are creating big savings for buyers.
Check out the level of noise that a treadmill makes during operation; something that many buyers overlook. Less expensive treadmill models may be fine for walkers but may not hold up as well for regular or seasoned runners.
The first thing to consider when shopping for a home treadmill is what you need it to do for you. The more incline variation offered in a treadmill unit, the more expensive the model will be.
Be careful, because any type of jogging or running, whether on a treadmill or not, puts strain on leg and hip joints. Selections of preprogrammed exercise routines are not essential to obtaining a good workout from a treadmill, but they do help to provide motivation. Better quality treadmills provide excellent cushioning to limit the impact on knees, ankles, hips and lower backs. The more programs the treadmill has to offer the more you can vary your workout and you'll be likely to continue exercising on a regular basis.
Besides spending your money on a treadmill make sure you spend time on it! By following the above tips you're sure to find the best treadmill for you. A treadmill is a good investment for anyone who has decided to make a conscious effort to become healthy and fit.
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