Buying any workout equipment for your home is a great investment. Having the ability to get some quality workouts in the comfort of your home has tons of benefits, especially during the winter months.
A treadmill option is one of the workout equipment you can invest in. However, since there are several treadmill models out there, it’s important to consider some factors before making the final decision.
Here are some factors that will help you buy a treadmill that will suit your fitness level and save you time and money in the long run.
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Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Treadmill
Your Budget
Before you make the final decision, one of the most important aspects to consider is the budget. Treadmills are usually big pieces of equipment with varying features and prices. If you’re looking for a high-end treadmill, you need to ensure that it is worth your hard-earned cash and offers the best quality. However, you need to find a machine that falls within your budget.
The best way to get value for your money is to choose the highest-quality treadmill you can afford. This way, you’re guaranteed high-quality features without breaking the bank.
Available space
Another key factor to consider when buying a treadmill is the available space. A treadmill may look smaller in the store, but once you assemble it in your house, you might find it much larger than you expect. Before you pick a treadmill, get the proper measurements of the area you’re planning to use. If you’ll be storing or moving your machine, ensure you measure the area as well.
If you’re limited on space, you can choose a folding treadmill, but they also occupy some space when folded. However, some models are harder to move or fold than others.
Belt size
The size of the treadmill deck varies from model to model. Most home treadmills come with 44 to 61 inches long and 14 to 18 inches cushioning. The narrower and shorter treadmill size dimensions don’t have a good user experience and are ideal for jogging or walking.
On the other hand, there are brands that manufacture wide and long treadmills that guarantee extra comfort. If you’re a tall guy, you should not focus on a small treadmill. Look for one that has a big running deck and plenty of widths. You should choose a treadmill that suits your fitness level and the exercise you want to do.
Cushioning
Treadmill deck cushioning helps protect your joints from stress and the impact of workouts. A cushioned treadmill minimizes impact by up to 40% compared to outdoor running. Cushioning is not only important to runners but also promotes stamina and reduces the risk of injury. Some treadmills have adjustable cushioning to help you choose your preferred level of support.
Weight Capacity
Treadmills have a weight capacity of between 250 and 400 lbs. You should choose a treadmill that can support at least 50 lbs more than your body weight, so you don’t strain the motor. If you’re a heavy guy, you need to look for a heavy-duty treadmill. These are treadmills that can support up to 500 lbs.
Built-in workout programs
Most modern treadmills come with ready-to-use and preset workout options. These programs are designed to promote fat burn, develop your cardio, and keep your workouts fun and versatile. Every individual can get a program that fits their levels and goals. You should go for one with several programs to help you choose one that suits your workout needs.
Incline/Decline
Most high-end treadmills have an adjustable running area that allows you to increase resistance. With the incline/decline feature, you can feel as if you’re walking or running up or down a hill. This feature makes your workouts more versatile and challenging.
Manual/Electric
Manual treadmills are cheap and simple machines that are ideal for beginners. These machines don’t have motors and move as fast as you go. They are great for walking rather than running because they have low speed. On the other hand, electric treadmills have motors that power the treadmill belts. The stronger the motor, the better it performs.
Speed
Different models have various max speeds. Most traditional treadmills support up to 10mph. If you’re a beginner, a 10mph max speed is ideal. However, as you advance, you will need a treadmill that can support up to 15mph for intense workouts. Always keep your fitness level in mind.
Warranty
The treadmill’s warranty is a clear indication of the machine’s durability. A typical warranty covers four parts: motor, frame, labor, and parts. Most treadmills have a lifetime frame and motor warranty. However, warranties involving labor, parts, and electronics vary. The best treadmills have at least five-year parts warranties. Labor comes with one or two years of warranty.
Conclusion
Buying a treadmill is not about getting into the first store and grabbing any model. Treadmills come with different innovations and price ranges. Therefore, it’s important to choose one with all the features you need and that suits your fitness level the best.