Due to the many
health and lifestyle benefits they provide, treadmills
have become the most popular type of exercise equipment
available. Because of their popularity, treadmills
are now offered by dozens of different manufacturers who
in turn produce hundreds of different models.
So, if you're ready to start taking
advantage of the many benefits treadmills provide, where
do you start in your quest to find the right one for
you? The rest of this page will give you the basic
information you need to make an informed decision.
Once you've got the basics down, you
can check out other pages on aspects that interest you
or go straight to our
treadmill reviews for
specific recommendations.
Basic Components of a Treadmill
The major components of a treadmill are its motor,
deck, belt, console, and handrails or frame.
Although all treadmills have these parts, there are a
multitude of other accessories, features, and parts that
are available. Often, the price of treadmills is
based on both the quality of the machine and the number
of features available.
What to look for in a treadmill
Based on years of experience and research, we've
assembled a list of things to consider when searching
for a treadmill. Most of
these factors were considered when we tested and
compiled our list of the
10 best treadmills
available today.
1. Motor/ Horsepower
Choose your motor based on whether you are going to run
or walk on the treadmill. If you're going to run,
look for a C.D. rating of 1.5 to 2.0 (or if you weigh
over 200 lbs). If you're only going to walk or
jog, look for a rating of 1.0 to 1.5.
Remember, a treadmill is only as good as its motor.
Keep in mind also that all motors have a continuous
duty and peak rating. If a treadmill lists a peak
rating instead of continuous duty, just divide the peak
number by two to get a rough conversion to continuous
duty. (i.e. peak rating of 4.0= continuous duty
rating of 2.0)
2. Belt and Deck
Make sure the length of the belt is appropriate for
your size and whether you are going to run on the
treadmill or walk. If you are tall, have long
strides, and/or are going to run, try to find a
treadmill with a belt length of 60+ inches.
Otherwise you can choose a smaller belt range in the 50
inch range.
Also, make sure the belt width is good for your size
and what you're going to be doing. Runners should
have a treadmill belt width of at least 18". Belt
widths range from 16" to 22".
3. Incline Capabilities
Most treadmills have a separate lift motor that
inclines the deck anywhere from 1-15%, which makes the
workout more difficult. Make sure the treadmill
you're considering has a powered incline not manual.
4. Weight Capacity
Although many treadmills can support people up to 300
pounds, make sure you are buying a machine that can
handle 25% more weight than you weigh. Even though
these heavier machines may cost more, they will last
longer and perform better.
5. Torque
Torque is basically the power of the drive train in a
treadmill. Just remember that higher horsepower
doesn't necessarily mean higher torque. If a
treadmill has a good drive system, a lower HP machine
could produce more torque. High torque produces a
smoother, more powerful feel than lower torque.
6. Display
Most treadmill displays are either LCD or LED.
LED is better simply because it is brighter and
therefore easier to read. Most displays will show
you speed, distance, pace, calories burned, laps, time
lapsed, time countdown, incline, and heart rate.
Try to find a treadmill with an easy to read and easy to
use display.
7. Computer Programs
Higher priced treadmills tend to have a vast number
of programs that you can set and follow to make working
out more challenging and effective. These programs
will automatically adjust the speed and incline of your
workout. Some even allow you to create and store
your own workout programs.
8. Heart Rate Monitor and Control
Some treadmills have a heart rate monitor that works
by having you grip the handles or wear an attachable
device (using chest straps). The more advanced
treadmills will adjust your workout (through speed and
incline) to keep your heart rate at a predetermined
level based on your goals (such as to lose weight).
9. Speed
The vast majority of treadmills are capable of
producing speeds of 0-10 mph. Keep in mind that
most people walk at 2-6 mph and run at 6-10 mph.
Look for a machine that is suitable for what speed
you'll mainly go.
10. Floor Space/ Folding
If space is an issue, many treadmills can be folded
up and then put in a closet. Understand that the
sturdier and more stable club-quality treadmills
generally do not "fold-up".
11. Safety/ Security
Good treadmills generally have an emergency shut-off
mechanism. This works by attaching a light wire or
string to your clothing that stops the belt should you
fall or stumble.
Also, look for a treadmill that has a smooth
start-up. For security, some treadmills have a
special key pr code sop that only you can use it.
12. Warranty
Most treadmills have a 2-4 year warranty on the
drive, frame, and lift motor. You may want to get
an extended warranty to cover everything for at least
two years. Keep in mind that the belt usually
breaks first and the motor is the most expensive thing
to fix.
13. Overall Quality
Overall, you want a treadmill that is substantial.
By that we mean it is solid, heavy, sturdy, and doesn't
vibrate too much. Another sign of high quality is
a deck that is not too rigid and hard. You
generally want the deck to give a little when you step
on it.
Summary
So, there you have it. Armed with this
information, you should have at least some understanding
of which treadmills will fit your lifestyle and goals.
Now you just need one that fits your budget!
Obviously, the price of treadmills can range from
several hundred dollars all the way up to many
thousands.
So, for some specific recommendations of high-quality
treadmills in different price ranges, be sure to check
out our list of the
10 best treadmills.
