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Choosing A Treadmill
Choosing a treadmill for your home gym can be a big plus for your fitness routine. It offers the convenience and privacy to exercise whenever you feel like it. Whatever the reason for wanting a treadmill, having one at your disposal means you have a “free trainer” and you’re never reliant on gym hours (no subscriptions) or the weather!
With so many Brands/models of fitness treadmill on the market, however, with each promoting various features and technologies, choosing the right one can be a daunting task.
The key to making a wise purchase is understanding how different treadmills cater to different needs. So your choice will include fitness goals, the space you have available at home, and how much you want to spend.
In this guide, we’ll show you the important factors to consider when selecting a treadmill as your exercise machine, that will suit your lifestyle and achieve your fitness objectives.
1. What Do You Want the Treadmill To Do For You?
Understanding exactly what you want to achieve can help you simplify the task of choosing a treadmill model that has the design features for your specific needs. Here are some objectives for when using a fitness treadmill:
General Fitness:
You want to stay active and maintain good health. So a basic model that offers a variety of walking and light jogging speeds may do.
Designed by macrovector / Freepik
Weight Loss:
Looking to lose weight? Treadmills with features like heart rate monitoring and pre-set weight loss guides can be useful. Such features will help you manage intensity levels, and track calories burned more accurately.
Endurance Training:
If you want the treadmill to assist in training for a marathon or maybe improve your stamina, then a model with a strong motor, a longer running deck, and advanced programming options, like interval training, is beneficial.
High-Intensity Training:
For those who want a good exercise machine to get to the top end of a cardio work-out look for treadmills that offer high speeds, incline settings, and options for sprint training.
Designed by macrovector / Freepik
Walking:
Senior users or people with joint problems might opt for treadmills with handles, more cushioning and lower speed settings for their workout machine.
By understanding clearly what you want the treadmill to do for you, means you will save a lot of time researching for the type of treadmill that provides all, or most of the functions you need.
Remember, choosing a treadmill for your home gym is the one that meets your activity needs, while fitting into your lifestyle and living space.
2. Consider The Space Available When Choosing a Treadmill
When Choosing a Treadmill it size can be quite large, so making sure you have adequate room for storage as well as use, is important. Here’s how to assess the space you have available and what to consider in terms of treadmill placement and size:
Measure Your Available Space:
Before doing any research, measure the area where you plan to place the treadmill. It is necessary to allow for additional space that is needed for access to the machine and safety around it. It is recommended to have at least two feet (0.6 meters) of clearance on either side and six feet (1.80 meters) of clearance behind the treadmill.
Check for Adequate Ceiling Height:
This is one measurement a lot of people forget! This measurement is important if the treadmill you want has an incline feature. You need enough room so the old brain isn’t telling you the space is too confined at the highest inclination. It is important when exercising that you can focus solely on the exercise, and not worry about space.
Foldable Treadmills:
If you’re short on space, consider a foldable treadmill. These models can be stored easily when not in use, making them ideal for smaller homes or a multipurpose gym. One important feature for these foldaway models is to look for hydraulic or easy-lift mechanisms that make folding and unfolding simple and safe.
If you may need to move the treadmill occasionally, check for models that come with easy-lift mechanisms or transportation wheels. This feature is a must for repositioning your treadmill without the risk of scratching your floors or straining your back!
Think About Mobility:
By carefully measuring the space available before doing your research, can save quite a few headaches……..literally 🤕!
3. Determine Your Price Range.
Having a price range before shopping for a fitness treadmill provides a guide of what your options are. When choosing a treadmill a price range will help in narrowing down what models are available and give you an idea how the specs you want measure up to cost. Treadmills range in price based on their features, durability, and brand. The most expensive is not necessarily the best…..
Here’s how you might go about deciding on a price range.
Understand Price Ranges When Choosing a Treadmill:
Treadmill prices can vary from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Get a feel for what features are typical at different price points. There maybe some bargains out there.
Consider Long-Term Costs:
Apart from the initial purchase price, consider potential longer-term costs like maintenance, or maybe subscriptions for integrated fitness programs, and electricity usage. A lower priced model might save money upfront, but might require higher maintenance costs, may lack energy efficiency, and may have a shorter life.
Decide on Must-Have Features:
Identify between what features on the treadmill are need-to-have and those that are nice-to-have. Those features that in your opinion are not negotiable i.e. based on your particular exercise requirement that you decided on earlier (e.g., motor strength for long-distance running, programmable settings for varied workouts, and cushioned surface for walking etc.) This will provide some “purchase discipline”.
Look for Value:
Careful research can identify “value for money”. Just because something is pricey doesn’t mean it is good value. So suss out Brands and models in your price range and compare warranty terms, design durability, and reviews of the various models you are keen on. As mentioned, investing a bit more in a well-designed and reliable model initially can save money in the longer term. We look into this in more detail in the next section.
Financing Options:
Retailers offer finance, so this could be one other area you need to have a look at. Deposit, no deposit, interest rate deals may be available. This might be an option straight out, or one that might enable you to choose a more “beefed up” model.
Going through the process above will mean you have achieved the best deal for you personally.
3. Key Features to Look For When Choosing a Treadmill
There are 9 basic features to look for when choosing a treadmill, and these features vary in the specifications offered:
Motor and Horsepower:
The motor is the heart of any treadmill. Look for Continuous Duty Horsepower (CHP) rather than Peak Horsepower (HP). This is because CHP is a measure of the continuous output rate, whereas HP is just that, the peak rate. So a 2.0 CHP motor is a higher quality machine than a 2.0 HP machine. A motor with at least 2.5 CHP is recommended for regular joggers and runners, while walkers can get by with less.
Rollers:
Rollers are an important part of a treadmill. So choosing a treadmill with larger diameter heavy duty type rollers, that are made of steel is preferable. The reason for this is the larger diameter means there is more roller in contact with the belt which in turn increases grip which in turn aids belt tension. Solid steel rollers have momentum, so along with the good belt tension the motion of the belt is smoother which translates to less stress on the motor.
Treadmill Belt Size:
The dimensions of the belt should accommodate your stride. For running, a belt should be at least 55 inches (1.40 meters) long and 20 inches (51 cms) wide. Taller individuals, say over 6 feet tall (1.8 meters), and those people with a longer stride may feel more comfortable with a longer belt say 60 inches (1.53 meters).
Incline and Speed Options:
These features add variety to your workouts and can help simulate outdoor running conditions. Look for treadmills that have more operating options than you think you’ll need. Nothing worse than buying a treadmill that is eventually limiting in terms of how much your fitness has improved. So choose one with a wide incline range (up to 10% or more) and speed settings of up to 10 mph (16 kms/hour) or higher maybe. This will accommodate any longer term goals you have for your fitness.
Belt Type:
Multilayered belts will last longer than single layer belts and there are treadmill brands that provide different levels of cushioning. Running on a fitness treadmill produces a percussive action on your joints. So the more the moving belt is cushioned the less impact there will be on your joints, and it will make your running action easier. Of course, the cushioning feature will be a significant bonus if, like me, you have joints that “play up” from time to time.
Control Panel and Display:
A user-friendly or intuitive interface that has an easy-to-read display is important. You don’t want to have the frustration while you are exercising of not clearly seeing the stats that interest you. What is shown should include: Speed, time used, distance covered, and calories burned. For me, a heart rate monitor is important so that you have a direct measure of the impact of your exercise.
Designed by kseniia-lopyreva/Pexels
Pre-set Programs:
Programs that are built into the software will provide variety to your workouts, maybe add a challenge or two, and so maintain your motivation. These programs adjust the speed and incline automatically, so your workout routine will have a combination of incline and speed that will test your fitness level. Pays to check what preprogramed options are available.
Safety Features:
Readily activated safety features are very important on treadmills for obvious reasons. So look for safety features like a conveniently placed emergency stop button or a safety key that can shut down the machine quickly if the need arises. This is important in households with children.
Noise Level:
Consider the operational noise of the treadmill, especially if you live in an apartment or plan to use it in a shared space.
When choosing a treadmill and paying attention to these 9 features, you will get one that does what you want it to do at a price you are comfortable with.
5. Advanced Features and Technology
Treadmills available in the market today come equipped with a number of advanced features, including technology that can improve your workout experience and help you achieve what fitness goals you have set for yourself.
When choosing a treadmill here are 8 options you have to when selecting your treadmill.
Programmable Settings:
Many modern treadmills offer preprogramed workout routines that will adjust speed and incline automatically based on the intensity of a workout. This is a great option for those who want a challenge that they haven’t set themselves. It adds a “fun” element to the workout. Have a look to see how many programs there are.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity is a current option on many treadmills and is a great way to sync with fitness apps, track your progress online, share exercise tips or maybe gain insights from those people who are very experienced treadmillers.
Integrated Entertainment Systems:
The connectivity in some treadmills allows you to stream media, and the built in screens can offer interactive running experiences. You can run virtual races or run on courses that simulate real-world trails etc. This can add another dimension to your exercise machine. You can play your music also.
Touchscreen Controls:
Touchscreen displays provide a convenient and user-friendly interface which makes navigating through menus and viewing workout data a breeze.
Heart Rate Monitoring:
Advanced treadmills often include more accurate heart rate monitoring via chest straps, arm bands or handle sensors. I think having a measure of your exertion via your heart rate is an important part of exercising. Not only during the work out, but also during the cool down to see how quickly your heart beat slows down. This is a measure of fitness.
Energy Saving Modes:
Eco-friendly features such as auto power-off or energy-efficient motors can help reduce electricity usage, which is both cost-effective and better for the environment.
Voice Control:
Some high-tech treadmills have voice-activated controls so you can adjust settings hands-free. This allows you to continue your work out without interrupting the routine.
Advanced Cushioning Technology:
An adjustable cushioning system, lets you choose the level of softness to hardness that you prefer. The level of cushioning may change with an increase in speed or the incline of the treadmill or as mentioned earlier it could be set to reduce the impact on your joints.
Investigating these 8 advanced features can improve your training sessions significantly, increasing the number of options available for your treadmills operation and increasing the make-up of your routines.
6. Safety Features When Choosing a Treadmill
Safety should be a top priority when choosing a treadmill. Not only if there are children about, but also when high intensity workouts are undertaken. Having a thorough understanding of the safety features of a treadmill and how these features operate, can help prevent accidents and injury.
There are many “Treadmill Fails” (click below) on YouTube! All of them could have been avoided if the Safety Key had been attached to their clothing……………..😃
https://youtu.be/tl4j_VGdPy0?feature=shared
Emergency Stop Mechanism:
Most treadmills have an emergency stop button plus a safety key. The safety key attaches to your clothing. If you slip or fall, the key will disengage and stop the belt immediately, preventing further injury.
Handrails and Side Rails:
Handrails and side rails provide support while on your exercise machine. Not everyone who uses a fitness treadmill will consider handrails to be a necessity, but they are valuable for support and stability. If present, the handrails should be sturdy and well placed, especially if you have balance problems.
Designed by kseniia-lopyreva/Pexels
Treadmill Belt Auto-Stop Function:
As an additional safety feature, some advanced treadmills have pressure sensitive sensors that detect when there is no longer any weight on the belt. When these sensors are actuated, the treadmill will shut down.
Sturdy Construction:
A treadmill that is well designed and constructed is very important. Because there is a lot of motion with a treadmill there should be no shakes, wobbles and vibrations. The treadmill should sit squarely on the floor and run smoothly. This will ensure it has a long life, and won’t shake to bits at higher speeds!
Non-Slip Surface:
It is advisable to have a non-slip mat or surface around the treadmill. Maybe have the treadmill sit on the mat. This mat will stop people slipping when getting of the Treadmill. .
Child Lock Features:
If you have young children, consider treadmills that include a child lock tab on the console that prevents accidental activation.
Speed Graduation:
It is important to have real time incremental speed control. Treadmills that have a number of fixed speed options that you choose can be a bit dangerous because the sudden acceleration or deceleration can cause people to lose their balance.
By looking for these seven safety features on a treadmill means you will have a more enjoyable experience with your treadmill and not have to leave it unexpectantly!
7. When Choosing a Treadmill, Read Reviews and Consumer Feedback
When you have a clear idea of the type of treadmill that suits you, it will help to read review sites that cover a number of different brands of treadmill, and take a look at customer reviews. Reading reviews and consumer feedback will provide you with valuable information for choosing a treadmill by getting comments on design qualities, performance, durability, and the quality of customer service associated with the retailer or brand.
Look for Patterns in Reviews:
While individual reviews can be helpful, identifying patterns in multiple reviews can provide a more reliable picture. Depending on how reviews are scaled you can get an idea of the popularity of a treadmill. For example, if they use a star rating (like Amazon) you can add up the percentages for say the 4 & 5 star reviews and if this total is over say 80%, then the treadmill concerned is a popular model.
The review comments will also highlight what people liked most about the treadmill. When reading the comments associated with the reviews of a particular model or brand you may pick up patterns. For example, a noisey operation or a troublesome motor.
The customer reviews below relate to a very popular treadmill model with 4 star+5 Star = 90%
Take Note of Verified Purchase Reviews:
Take notice of reviews written by verified purchasers as they are more likely to reflect genuine, unbiased experiences.
Check Reviews Across Different Platforms:
Look at reviews on third-party retail sites, fitness blogs, and video reviews on YouTube. This will give you a more balanced appreciation of the treadmill’s performance in different settings.
Read About Post-Purchase Support:
Find out what customers say about the brand’s customer service, warranty claims, and support. This is important for the “integrity of purpose” shown by the brand.
Consider the Source of the Review:
Be aware of where the review you are reading is coming from. Professional reviews can offer detailed insights but may not always be 100% objective, perhaps ignoring the typical home user experience. User reviews, however, can be more relatable but less detailed.
Note the Age of the Reviews:
Product quality can change over time, so consider the dates of the reviews. The more recent feedback can give you a better understanding of the current treadmill models and their quality.
Seek Out Specifics:
There maybe features of a treadmill that you really want, so see if you can find reviews where the user talks specifically about one or all of these features. By following these six strategies you will get a clearer picture, hopefully, of the positives behind the treadmills you have on your list. Remember nothing is perfect! Going through the process I have described for choosing a treadmill, however, will give you confidence in any choice you are prepared to make.
8. Warranty and After-Sales Service
These are really important factors for peace of mind. What follows is some detail about Warranties and After Sales Service.
Length of Warranty:
The duration of a warranty can vary significantly between models and manufacturers. A longer warranty may indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality of its product. Look for one to two years of full coverage parts and labour etc., and up to 15 years for the frame.
What’s Covered:
Pay close attention to what the warranty covers. Some warranties are comprehensive, covering the motor, frame, parts, and labor, while other warranties might have “gaps”. For example, parts and labor might be covered for one year only, whereas the motor and frame may have longer coverage.
Extended Warranties:
These can work, and extend the length and scope of coverage, but at an additional cost. Suss out the terms to decide if the cost is worth the potential benefits.
Customer Support:
This is important and often in todays world is lacking. Getting quick, helpful support is like gold. Customer service reviews may highlight whether a company has a good support network. Contact is the key, so check up on how the companys support structure works – whether phone, email, human chat, or chatbot.
Availability of Replacement Parts:
Company Age usually has a close, positive association with the availability of spares. Because the operation of a treadmill has dynamic features, and friction is active whenever the treadmill is operating, replacement parts may be required over time. So investigate the spare parts attitude of the manufacturing company or the retailer.
Service Agreements:
One option to consider is the use of service agreements on purchase – sort of like insurance. Some manufacturers or retailers offer service agreements, where a technician will come to your home to undertake repairs. Service agreements are convenient in the case of things like treadmills because they are heavy, cumbersome and so not easily transportable.
FINALLY: Read the Fine Print When Choosing a Treadmill
Before finalizing your purchase, read the fine print of the warranty and any service agreements. Understand any conditions or actions that could void your warranty, such as improper use or unauthorized repairs.
Taking the time to understand the warranty and after-sales service options will help you choose a fitness treadmill that comes with (some) piece of mind.
9. How to buy: Online or Bricks and Mortar
A lot of the basic research we have discussed can be done online, and the whole process from research to buying can be done online. The advantage of this is you can make your own mind up about what you want without input from the polished sales promo of a store sales person. As well, prices may be more competitive and delivery cost maybe cheaper.
Treadmills are large and heavy exercise machines so freight cost is an important factor. When buying from a physical store the price may include freight, and someone to come and assemble it for you. Assembly maybe OK if you are “handy” and can follow instructions readily, but some treadmill models may require an engineering degree to follow the instructions provided.
Conclusion
Well I’ve given you nine factors to consider in this guide to choosing a treadmill. It may seem a bit “over the top” but there are two basic reasons for being thorough in your research:
- Treadmills aren’t cheap, they can be above a thousand dollars.
- Treadmills are complex exercise machines with many moving parts so it is wise to be knowledgable about them to improve your chances of making a good choice.