One of the best ways you can do to exercise more is to make your workout sessions easier. In fact, if you are interested in walking or running, a treadmill can offer you an easy way to do it in the comfort of your own home. This is a great option, especially if you have no time to go to the gym.
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What To Consider
To give you an idea of the type of treadmill that best fits you, you can check out top treadmills for cardio. Moreover, when choosing your treadmill, it is essential to consider the following:
Cost
Your budget should be considered when planning to buy any piece of fitness equipment, especially when it is something as expensive and big as a treadmill. If you want to purchase a treadmill that will last long, you will most likely spend around $1,000. However, you can get a treadmill with more stability, more workout options, and a better motor for the price of $1,500 to $3,000.
If your budget for buying your own treadmill is limited, it will help if you look for refurbished or lightly-used treadmills. Second-hand equipment such as these are usually sold by previous owners as well as several stores that sell used home fitness equipment.
Ease of Use
It is vital to choose a treadmill that has features you can easily and safely use. When assessing a treadmill for ease of use, it is best to take note of the following:
- Easy-To-Use Speed Buttons
You should pick a treadmill that allows you to quickly and easily change speed. This feature is not just for safety purposes. It also helps if you are training intervals.
- Well-positioned Shelf or Screen For Your Tablet or Phone
If you have decided to get a treadmill with a built-in monitor, keep in mind that the screen should be at a comfortable eye level. That way, you won’t strain your neck while watching your screen as you run. On the other hand, if the treadmill you want does not have any built-in screen, you should make sure it has a safe place to position your tablet or phone.
- Clear and Easy-To-Change Setting
Whether or not the treadmill you like has a simple dashboard or a high-tech touchscreen, it will help if you make sure that the settings are easy to find and change.
Noise
You might need to make sure your treadmill is relatively quiet. Most of the time, this depends on where you live. It is vital to know that while foldable treadmills feel more convenient, they tend to bring the most noise. Hence, if you buy one to use in a small apartment or condo unit where neighbors are nearby, you might not get to use the equipment every day.
Horsepower
If you plan to use the treadmill regularly, it is essential to consider its horsepower. The more you plan to use the equipment, the more horsepower you would want it to have. A treadmill with 2.5 to 3.5 continuous-duty horsepower (CHP) is recommended for those who want to use the treadmill more frequently.
Durability
Your treadmill should feel stable and solid. To test it, you can set the speed at eight miles per hour and shake the sides of the equipment to see if it wobbles. If it doesn’t, then the treadmill is most likely durable.
Fit
From an ergonomic standpoint, every treadmill is built a little differently. A treadmill that may seem perfect for someone might not work best for you. For example, you might notice that the arm railings on one treadmill are at a position that is perfect for you, while on the other treadmill, they feel uncomfortable.
Belt
When it comes to evaluating the belt of a treadmill, you should know the following:
- Size
It will help if you make sure the treadmill you want to buy has a long enough and wide enough belt. If you want to buy a treadmill for walking, a narrow and small belt will suffice. However, this is not the case if you want to use the treadmill for running.
- Shock Absorption
A treadmill with a shock absorption feature is an advantage. This is to help absorb the shock and provide the user with a tremendous road-running feel.
Safety Features
It is best to select a treadmill with handrails on both sides. That way, you have something to hold on to if you need one during your workout. Furthermore, it would also help if your treadmill has a clip or cord you can pull in case you want to stop the belt if you fall or for whatever reasons there are.
Data Tracking
If you think data matters, it is best to get a treadmill with a digital display that shows and tracks your data. It will also help if you look for treadmills that can provide biofeedback and has the ability to connect you to third-party tracking apps.
Other Purchase Considerations
Below are other purchase considerations you should look into:
Weight and Assembly
Treadmills tend to be heavy. Hence, if you plan to buy one, always ask the seller regarding delivery. Check whether assembly is included in the package or available at an extra cost.
Warranties
It is best to choose a treadmill with a 3 or 7 years warranty on the parts and at least a year on labor. Moreover, most treadmills tend to have a lifetime warranty. It will make more sense if you get one.
Returns
It is best to clarify the store’s return policy before you buy your own treadmill. Even if the store takes back the equipment, you might have to pay the store in order to retrieve what you purchased. However, if you plan to purchase online, search for how the return shipping is being handled.
To Sum It Up
Buying a treadmill is a huge investment. This type of equipment can provide you with more options for exercise, especially when you can’t get outside or go to the gym. That is why it is vital to know the essential factors in choosing one.
