Treadmills are the aerobic exercise machine of choice for good reasons. They are probably the most enjoyable exercise machines, whether you typically like a slow, comfortable walk or a long run. Regardless of your age or fitness level, treadmills are suited for both intense and mild training, and therefore are one of the most effective pieces of exercise equipment you can buy. A study that compared exercisers who worked out equally hard for the same time on several different types of machines found that they generally burned the most calories on a treadmill. Consumer Reports research has shown that they’re less likely to gather dust than other types of exercise machines.
A treadmill is judged in several ways. Before you buy any treadmill, take it for a test run and check for the following attributes. In addition, look at features, such as whether the treadmill offers preset programs, or is capable of memorizing a program you’ve created for yourself. Some machines can monitor the user’s heart rate and adjust speed and incline to keep heart rate within a specified range. The merit of some of these features, like handrails, will vary with the exerciser’s body and motion.
Durability
Durability is evaluated by using a drum with pneumatic “feet” attached. The feet on the rotating drum pound the treadmill to simulate use by a 180-pound person jogging 500 miles — the equivalent of a year’s worth of use by a recreational runner. Then the treadmill is taken apart and examined for damage.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is how the treadmill fits the user — and the machine’s ease of use are also examined. You should be able to use a good treadmill intuitively, or at least without constantly referring to the owner’s manual.
A Thick Deck
The platform on which you’ll run or walk is the machine’s deck. A deck that’s at least three-quarters of an inch thick will stand up best to the impact of running. If you’re short of space, look for a deck that folds up. Make sure you can lift the deck easily and that the latch holds it securely in place.
Wide foot rails
Wide foot rails are located on either side of the deck. Make sure you can stand on them while you start up the treadmill and that they’re not tilted or wobbly.
Large belt
Look for a belt that’s at least 17 inches wide and 51 inches long. A small belt increases your chances of stepping off accidentally when it’s moving.
Well-designed handrails
They should be close enough to reach if necessary, but they should not get in the way of your swinging arms. They should be cushioned if you plan to hold on while you exercise.
Motor location
Make sure the motor housing is out of kicking range as you walk or run on the treadmill. Also, look for a quiet motor. Easy-to-use controls. Avoid slide switches or knobs that you have to fiddle with to get to a desired setting.
Stability
Be sure the treadmill doesn’t wobble or creep across the floor.
Minimum incline near zero
Models that don’t level off below 2 percent can make the workout more strenuous than you want.
Useful programs
If you plan to use preset programs, see if you like the variety and can easily select the desired program. Check how the display monitors your progress through the program.
Other Extras
Touches that may help you decide between two otherwise similar machines include trays and stands to hold reading material or a remote control, a nest to rest your water bottle, and a place to safely hang your towel.
Follow these basics and you will end up with a treadmill that will serve you well for years to come. Here’s a toast to your improved fitness!
Copyright of this article: 2006 E. Alton Hall. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.
Note from Brigadoon Fitness
Treadmills are a great aerobic workout. There are many treadmills on the market today, manual, folding, under desk, electric, commercial, as well as residential. They are an excellent way for beginners to start exercising since they don’t put too much stress on the body compared to walking or running outdoors. As your endurance develops you can begin jogging or running. Exercising on a treadmill can reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses. It can also improve your sleep, boost your mood, and improve your brain function. Call us today and talk to our fitness experts to find the best treadmill for you!
