If you feel the need to exercise to shed those last few stubborn pounds, but it's just too cold outside and you can't find time for a gym membership, why not join the ever-growing number of Americans investing in home treadmills? According to the National Sporting Goods Association, treadmilling is the fastest growing activity in the United States. In fact, even President Bush works out daily on his White House treadmill.
Cost of Treadmills
Treadmills range as low as $100 for manual units to as high as $5,000. The more expensive treadmills offer a variety of training – everything from running up hills (using inclines) to long distance running. Machines with ratings of 2.0 horsepower or higher are more costly, but more powerful. When considering price, also look for a treadmill that gives you the capability of combining the functioning of the motor, as well as its belt and deck. Of course, you get a steadier ride with more expensive units, although some cheaper models can also accomplish this goal.
Purpose of Your Treadmill
Do you plan to use your new treadmill for just walking or do you intend to use it for running? If you just want a treadmill for walking, then you don't need to invest in a pricier machine with all the bells and whistles. In other words, a treadmill that puts out about 1.5 to 3 continuous horsepower is sufficient. However, if you weigh more than 180 pounds, you'll want a machine that delivers higher, continuous horsepower. Moreover, if you're interested in training for races, then you'll need an even more powerful model with a higher horse power.
Treadmill Safety Features
If you have small children or will be working out alone, you'll need to consider safety features. Make sure any treadmill you consider buying has an emergency stop button, as well as a safety key and belt you can attach to your waistband that can stop the machine if you should fall. What's more, a good treadmill should both start slowly as well as stop slowly. Also, make sure the frame is good and sturdy.
Treadmill Comfort Tips
If you struggle with arthritis, then you probably need to select a treadmill that has a low impact deck, as this type of machine is easier on joints, reducing the impact of walking and/or jogging. What's more, treadmills with a low impact deck are also better for people with bad backs.
Also, keep in mind that the taller you are, the longer your stride on the treadmill will be. Therefore, you'll need to select a machine with a longer and wider belt. The deck area should offer enough room for you to exercise for comfort. In addition, the belt should work without sticking or slipping. In other words, avoid any belt that causes rough or jerky movements. The construction of a treadmill's deck influences the smoothness of your treadmill. Check for a deck construction surface that gives somewhat, but does not bounce.
Treadmill Care
Finally, be sure to take care of your treadmill once you bring it home. You can buy a top-of-the-line machine, but if you neglect to care for it, it won't function as long as it should. Treadmills last for an average of ten years. If you properly care for your treadmill, you can extend its life. As dust is hard on treadmills, wipe up all dust between the belt and the deck weekly, and also make sure the floor around your treadmill is clean and dust-free.
Venice Kichura - Venice Kichura is a freelance writer who writes on a variety of subjects. She holds a special passion for topics relating to art and ...
