Although a treadmill is the most effective piece of fitness equipment, it is probably the most expensive item of equipment you will buy, therefore it is VITALLY IMPORTANT that you buy the right one FOR YOU!
10 things your treadmill MUST HAVE:
1. LARGE ENOUGH MOTOR
You really need a treadmill with a motor as the manually powered ones will automatically slow when you get tired and slow down. You will want a motor that has at least 1.75 CONTINUOUS horse power (which is the rating for continuous use, PEAK horsepower is for any given moment and cannot be sustained), the higher the better as is can easier cope with heavier weight and performs better when you are running at a higher speed. The motor also needs to be as quiet as possible if you are going to be using it whilst watching TV.
2. GOOD TOP SPEED
You will need to make sure the treadmill?s top speed is faster that you will ever want to run. If you only ever intend to use it for walking, you can get a cheaper model. However if you are using it for fitness or actual race training you will need a treadmill that can go as fast as you will want to go (bearing in mind even if you have a 6 mile per hour natural running speed, if you do pace/interval training at all, you will need a minimum of 10pmh + a suitable incline).
3. GOOD DECK and BELT SIZE
You need to make sure that the deck and belt are big enough to accommodate your needs. The belt needs to have a smooth, consistent action whilst pulling your weight, without juddering or slipping off centre. It should ideally be at least 46cm (18?) + in width and at least 125cm (49?) long (longer if you are tall. The deck needs to be big enough for you and should be shock absorbing therefore reducing any impact to your joints.
4. SOLID FRAME
Your treadmill needs to be very sturdy. These days even the top of the range fold-up models can be sturdy enough. You need to make sure that is doesn?t feel unstable or wobble about when you are using it at slow or fast speeds.
5. SAFE OPERATION
Make sure your treadmill has a slow start speed and an emergency stop button. Some treadmills also have an emergency stop system whereby a wire is attached to you and the treadmill which automatically stops the machine it the wire is disconnected (i.e. if you should fall off).
6. INCLINE
This adds another variation to your workouts. Make sure it has a powered incline system and not just a manual one. Some treadmills even have an automatic incline that changes with the users own heart rate.
7. HEART RATE MONITOR
A heart rate monitor is essential as it ensures that you are exercising within your own fitness target heart rate zone. The heart rate monitors that are part of a treadmill and are linked to you with a clip, tend to have between a 40%-60% error rate. This is not acceptable when they are an essential part of a fitness regime. A normal watch heart rate monitor with a chest strap transmitter is the most accurate way to measure your heart rate.
8. DISPLAY CONSOLE/CONTROL PANEL
Some of the displays resemble a space ship control system. It is ideal to show time, speed, distance and calories, in a clear format where the buttons are easy to press when you are using the treadmill. It is also a good idea to get a treadmill that has several different pre-programmed courses.
9. GOOD WARRANTY
Make sure you have a warranty and double check when you are buying via the internet.
10. ENOUGH ROOM
You will need plenty of room to get on and off safely. Make sure you do not place it with the back to a wall, just in case you do fall off the end. Some of the higher priced fold up treadmills are a good idea if you have limited storage space, but you still need plenty of room to actually use it, so measure your space.
Have fun using your new piece of fitness equipment.
Julie Ashman, For great value treadmills and heart rate monitors, fitness and weight loss advice http://www.JRASports.com | |
