Selecting a Treadmill

Selecting a treadmill for your home is a very personal decision. It can also be an expensive one.

That's why it's important to research the available models before you shop or you could easily end up buying a treadmill with features you'll never use.

The best treadmill for you may be very different from the ideal treadmill for someone else.

Purchasing A Home Treadmill

Here are some important things to consider before purchasing a home treadmill. Decide which features are important for you before making your final selection.

• Features Displayed on Console - Some of the features displayed on the console might include calories burned distance traveled, speed, incline level, and time spent walking. Some models also have a

  heart rate monitor although models with this feature are usually on the higher end.

• Treadmill Construction - Some treadmills aren't meant to bear heavier weight. Most of the lower end models have a weight limit of only 250 pounds. If your weight is higher than that, be sure to look for a model that can accommodate you.
• Horsepower - Horsepower is important if you plan to use your treadmill for running or jogging. When selecting a treadmill, remember that the best treadmills have at least a 1.5 horsepower continuous duty motor. Also consider the warranty on the motor.
• Deck Length - If you plan to jog or run on the treadmill, your needs will be different than if you plan to use it for walking only. If you plan on running, you'll need a treadmill with a deck at least 60 inches long to accommodate your stride. The treadmill should also have a good layer of deck cushioning to help absorb some of the shock from hitting the surface forcefully. Sturdy construction of the frame is important to avoid having the treadmill rock back and forth during vigorous jogging or running.
• Custom Programmable - Some of the best treadmills on the market allow you to design your own custom programs to meet your individual fitness needs. Most treadmills give you several different pre-set routines already programmed into the treadmill. If you would like additional routines, you might want to consider a home treadmill that allows you to design your own user defined programs.
• Cost - A good basic treadmill can be purchased for under $1000. If you plan on walking only, one of these models should work fine, but if you plan to run or jog, they may not be sturdy enough. The more expensive, advanced models which run in the $1500 to $3500 range generally have longer decks to accommodate running as well as a more powerful motor for higher speed running. They also tend to be constructed with more sturdy frames.

• Available Space - Space is a consideration as some treadmills can be quite large. If you have limited space, you may want to look for one of the fold up home treadmills that can be easily stored in a small space. There are a number of these models available.

Selecting a treadmill is not something that should be done quickly. If you take plenty of time to research and evaluate the available models, you're sure to make the right decision for you.

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