Recently I had to finally agree that the treadmill I bought ten years ago from a friend had "walked its last mile." Since exercising at home fits into my time-crunched schedule, and all too frequently where I live it's either too hot or too windy cold to walk outdoors, a treadmill is an essential part of my exercise program. So I went shopping for a new treadmill. Here's what I found.
Rowing machines, ab rollers, and other fitness fads may come and go, but the trusty treadmill has stood the test of time, and outsells by far all other home exercise machines. In gyms and homes across the country, almost 40 million people use treadmills regularly, up from less than 5 million just ten years ago.
If you haven't been using a treadmill, talk it over with your doctor before you buy. Treadmills can usually be used by anyone, regardless of age or fitness level, but get your doctor's o.k. first.
With all of the treadmills on the market, you really have to be a savvy shopper. Your first stop should be the nearest fitness specialty store. To make sure you get the best machine for your budget, here are some tips:
Measure your space: get out you measuring tape and measure the area where your treadmill will stand; measure both horizontally and vertically, taking into account the height of anyone who will be using the machine. You don't want anyone bumping their head on the ceiling or having to move the treadmill away from a wall to feel comfortable walking on it. Bear in mind that treadmills can be elevated at one end to increase the exercise level.
Try before you buy: ask the store to allow you to "test drive" the treadmill before you buy it--right there in the store. While you're checking it out, observe the cushioning (different brands achieve this in different ways). Does the machine seem durable? Are the digital numbers easy to read? Then, listen. How noisy is the machine? Will you be able to hear a TV, radio, or CD player while you're doing your daily routine? Lastly, feel. Does the machine seem sturdy or does the treadmill rock back and forth as you walk or jog? Machine parts should be welded together, not held by nuts and bolts that will need constant tightening.
Next, check out the warranty and service agreement. Does the retailer assemble the machine or will it come in a series of boxes for home assembly? Does the treadmill have a weight limit? Again check the warranty on this point as some are voided if the user is over a specified weight.
Check the motor and forget the advertised 'peak rating, instead make sure the treadmill has at least a 1.5 continuous-duty-horsepower rating. If you weigh over 200 pounds of if you plan on running on your machine, buy a 2.0 continuous-duty horsepower motor. You'll need the extra power and durability.
Make sure the belt is a comfortable width. Most gym models are around 18 inches wide and 55 inches long, a size that seems to accommodate people of all shapes and sizes. A thick belt (2-ply) is also a wise choice since a new belt can cost as much as $200.
The deck that the belt rides on should be at least one inch thick to lessen the chance of it cracking should you step on it accidentally. Also look for a treadmill with a maintenance-free deck-lubing system. This won't add much to the overall price, but will save you having to lubricate your machine every month.
Most treadmills have an emergency shut-off system. Understand how the system on the machine you're considering works. If you should start to fall, you need to know that the machine will stop.
Many high-quality machines come equipped with contact heart-rate monitors to help you keep your heart rate within a safe and effective range. Other fancy programs may or may not be of importance to you. My previous treadmill had a timer and miles walked program. To me, this was important. You may want something else or merely the bare bone basics to keep the cost down. Discuss your options with the salesperson.
Ask how to clean your machine. Properly cared for, your treadmill should last anywhere from seven to 12 years. With proper care, it can last even longer. The number one enemy of a treadmill is dust. Ask the salesperson how to properly dust the area between the deck and the belt.
Good Shopping!
