Treadmills for Home or Commercial Use

The best selling type of home fitness equipment is the treadmill. It
consists of a looped belt supported by a sturdy deck propelled either
by an electric motor, or in the case of non-motorized versions, by your
own efforts. They generally have some shock absorption system, usually
rubber cushioning, to minimize stress on your joints.

One of your most sensible health decisions could be the regular use of a
treadmill. Used correctly , they offer an ideal way to burn
calories, manage weight, and strengthen the cardiovascular system. You
can adjust your workout from a walk to marathon-intense running, flat
to incline angles, all while enjoying a consistency of environmental
conditions.

The correlation of cost and quality is evident with treadmills – the higher
the cost, the better the materials and construction. Choosing a
treadmill should begin by determining if you will using the treadmill
primarily for walking or running. Take into consideration the
requirements of others who will be using the equipment. Consider also
the weight and any joint problems of the expected users. Obese
exercisers or those with joint problems need to choose a treadmill with
a soft surface and one that provides enough recoil to protect the
joints.

Walkers could choose a machine that goes up to 5 miles per hour and might have
an average length deck; runners require a machine that goes to at least
10 miles per hour and has an elongated deck.

Consider where you will locate a treadmill – they are somewhat large so measure
the available space and determine that it will fit. A folding treadmill
may offer solutions if your available area is tight.

Classification:

Cardiovascular

Body Areas Utilized:

Muscles throughout the legs and buttocks

Points to consider:

size and capabilities
of the motor – look for at least 2 hp “continuous duty” (not “peak”);
motor should be quiet;
frame construction
made of at least 11-gauge steel for strength and stability
deck – should be at
least 3/4″ thick, absorbs shocks, feels firm & stable yet
forgiving,
console should be
easily navigated, and the layout makes sense, monitors easy to read,
look for electronic
features that are motivating and challenging – pre-set and
custom programs will help you maintain interest, stave off boredom
safety – is there a
large stop button and effective emergency stop key? are hand rails
arranged so swinging arms do not hit them? is there a safety lock so
machine can’t be inadvertently started by children?
belt speed should
start and stop in small gradual increments
is the belt large
enough – runners need a belt over 50″ in length and at least 18″ in
width for safety
is there a heart rate
monitor? – ideal is “heart rate interactive” – the machine
automatically adjusts so that you maintain the desired heart rate. Best
monitors use a chest strap to monitor your heartbeats.
non-motorized models
are powered by your action, and can create strain on the knees and hip
joints.
treadmills should be
self lubricating (maintenance free)
warranty – look for
at least 1 year on labor, 1-3 years on parts, most quality treadmills
will offer lifetime warranty on the frame