10 Quick Tips for Buying Treadmills
by Jennifer
Dennis
Thinking about purchasing a
treadmill? Before you make a purchase, read these
important tips for buying the
machine. This fitness equipment will be an important
investment, both financially and physically.
Read these important considerations
before you decide which make, model and style work best
for you.
1. Price ranges for treadmills generally break down in the
following:
- Budget: $500 - $1500
- Mid-Range: $2500-$3000
- Quality: $3000 and up
With treadmills, you get what you pay for—literally. With every
additional
dollar, you are assured a superior product. Stronger belts,
motors, premier
monitors, more exciting fitness programs—the list goes on and
on. Look for a
smooth ride on the treadmill
machine, easy-to-adjust incline, water bottle holders
and
additional features that will make all the difference on your
run. With every
additional dollar, you will also ensure increased use, year
after year.
2. Your fitness level can dictate what type of treadmill you
should buy. Do you
see yourself frequently running or do you prefer to walk? Daily
fitness
lifestyles determine the model you should purchase. If you
prefer walking, you
need a strong belt with easy-to-adjust incline levels to give
you the
multi-faceted workout you want. If you are a fast, strong
runner, a longer belt
will be a better fit for you. Ensure that you have strong,
steady arm rails that
can support your body. A beginning walker should have an
incline of at least 10%
and a 15% for advanced users for maximum output.
Walkers should be able to attain a speed of 5 mph or 8 to 11
mph for runners.
The speed should increase incrementally so that the user does
not fall off while
adjusting speeds. All machines should have an auto-switch in
case of accidents
or emergencies.
3. The deck length and width can substantially affect your
workout
experience. If you frequently walk, you will want a treadmill
that is wider to
give you plenty of room to exercise. Runners prefer a longer
deck to enjoy a
full range of motion while exercising. Either way, you will get
a great lower
body workout with high cardiovascular intensity that can
lengthen your life—and
improve your daily experience.
4. A good treadmill deck should be low-impact and a least a
quarter-inch
think. Low-impact decks provide stress relief on your joints
and back. Read more
on Flex decks vs. Standard decks to see which one fits your
fitness lifestyle
best. Overall, the more cushion on a deck, the more motivation
the fitness user
has to take the next step... and next step... and next
step.
5. Maximum Developed Horsepower is another influential
factor in a treadmill.
MDH is when the motor is required to work harder than the idle
speed, causing
the motor to need extra horsepower. This extra horsepower’s top
amount is called
the MDH. The better the machine, the stronger the MDH, ensuring
your machine
will last longer and work more effectively.
6. Monitors are essential to a great workout. Heart rate
monitors are an easy
and efficient way to obtain optimal fitness levels in an
easy-to-read format.
Set your designated heart rate and let these accurate monitors
tell you where
you stand as you run, walk or jog. Moderate Rate heart rates at
approximately
50% of the maximum heart rate, or an RPE of 5-6; Weight
Management heart rates
are 60-70% , or RPE 6-7; Aerobic is 70-80% or RPE 7-8; the Peak
Performance
should only be used by top athletes and is 80-90% with an RPE
8-9. Controlling
speed, distance and incline through your monitors will also
help to obtain
desired heart rates.
7. The SpaceSaver option is ideal for individuals living in
an apartment or
home with limited space. If you don’t want to see your
treadmill machine every
day—or simply don’t have room for it—a SpaceSaver model will
fold up easily and
efficiently for storage. Purchase attractive treadmill
furniture to store your
SpaceSaver in an accessible and convenient location.
8. Making your machine iFit compatible directly confronts
the biggest problem
you will face with any machine you buy—boredom with your
fitness routine. iFit
gives you the chance to have a personalized, rewarding workout
time after time.
Through your machine, you will set and obtain your personal
goals for a
rewarding experience.
9. Speed range and incline range should be easily changed
throughout your
workout. If you want to change inclines throughout the
exercise, the machine
should give you a smooth, flowing adjustment. In addition, your
machine should
remain relatively quiet.
10. Warranties are essential to buying your next treadmill.
Especially if you
are considering a used or refurbished model, see what the
distributor or
manufacturer offers you for replacement parts or service.
Warranties confirm the
quality of the product and you should make sure it covers the
weight of the
heaviest person who might use the machine and works against
defects for one to
three years.
About the Author: Jennifer Dennis is a successful author and
regular
contributor to http://www.treadmills-and-treadmill-reviews.com
- a fitness and treadmill industry resource that features
treadmill reviews,
guides, product descriptions and articles.
About the Author
About the Author: Jennifer Dennis is a successful author and
regular
contributor to http://www.treadmills-and-treadmill-reviews.com
- a fitness and treadmill industry resource that features
treadmill reviews,
guides, product descriptions and articles.
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