A treadmill is a staple in any fitness regime and has been among the most popular cardio equipment for years. One of the best things about these machines is that they will help you get results to build up your basic fitness, whether you're walking or training for a race.
Adults should accumulate 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity per week to achieve optimum health benefits. Knowing how to choose a treadmill that suits your needs is essential with so many options. In this buying guide, we'll cover all the basics for choosing a treadmill to elevate your fitness and tackle your goals.
Why Have a Treadmill at Home?
Having a home gym is often more cost-effective than paying for a gym membership year after year. A combination of cardio and strength equipment makes your investment worthwhile and provides an all-around approach to your health and fitness. With a treadmill in your home gym, you can build a workout routine that boosts your strength and cardiovascular fitness, all in one private space. Some of the benefits of a high-quality treadmill include:
- Health benefits: Running or walking are effective ways to maintain optimal weight. Running on a treadmill also raises your heart rate, making your heart more efficient at pumping blood through your body over time.
- Joint support: Treadmills offer more support to your knees and ankles than road running. They have shock absorption systems built into the deck to lessen the impact of running.
- Convenience and cost savings: Your home gym equipment is always there. You can hop on and run without driving to a gym or wearing a special outfit. It's also a once-off investment that pays for itself over time.
- All-weather exercise: Finding the motivation to exercise outdoors in the rain or snow can be challenging. Even the most committed fitness enthusiasts will think twice under those conditions. With a treadmill, you can stick to your routine regardless of the weather.
- Family fitness: Today's treadmills are incredibly versatile, and anyone in your family can benefit when you have one at home. Children and older adults can enjoy light walks, and the more ambitious can adjust their runs accordingly.
Choosing a Treadmill — Factors to Consider
If unbelievable health and fitness potential is what you need, the next step zin this buyers guide to treadmills is narrowing down your options. Consider the following:
- Your space: Most treadmills take up around 76 inches in length and 35 inches in width. While you can get folding treadmills, it's also best to consider their footprint once unfolded. You'll also need space around your treadmill to use it safely.
- Budget: Treadmill costs vary depending on their features and size — consider how much you will invest in your health equipment to find the best value for money.
- Your goals: Your treadmill choice often depends on your running level and goals. For example, if you're training for a marathon, you need more features, speed options and inclines than walking once daily. How often you plan to use your treadmill is also important, as regular use often requires a more robust model.
- Features and accessories: Many modern treadmills have adjustable settings and a wide range of speed options. They allow you to train for different terrains and customize your workouts to include intervals and other training modalities. You can also choose from various consoles that provide data on your speed, distance, time and heart rate. You can connect your phone via Bluetooth and enjoy full compatibility with fitness apps.
The Beginner's Guide to Buying a Treadmill
Once you have a general idea of the type of treadmill you need, you can focus on the finer details. Consider the following when selecting the right treadmill for you:
- Motor power: Treadmills have different motors depending on the application. A general rule is that the higher the horsepower, the more you can push the motor, which means the more you can push yourself. If you're a serious runner, look for a motor with high horsepower.
- Track size and surface options: The size of your running track is one of the most important considerations when buying a treadmill. A wider and longer deck offers more comfort and safety during workouts if you're tall or run at high speeds. Shorter people or joggers have smaller strides, so they can comfortably use a smaller deck.
- User interface: Many treadmills have preset workout programs to guide you through various options. Look for an easy-to-use interface with connected features, like a dock for your smartphone or wireless internet connectivity. You can also keep it simple and opt for a basic screen that maps your progress.
Choosing a Treadmill for Your Needs
No buyers guide to treadmills would be complete without a checklist. Answer the following questions to pinpoint the ideal treadmill for your home gym:
- How will you use your treadmill? If you plan to use your treadmill for walking, you can focus on a model with a smaller deck and motor. Serious runners will need a larger model and motor to achieve their goals.
- How much space do you have? Those with limited space will benefit from folding treadmills. They allow you to decrease your treadmill's footprint when not in use.
- Do you want extra features? Consider how much additional features matter to you, like intuitive touchscreen interfaces and internet connectivity. If you're training for a race, features like maximum speed, incline settings, heart rate monitors and interval programming may take preference.
- Do you want a manual or motorized treadmill? Manual treadmills require no power source, so you move the belt yourself. Curved-belt manual treadmills are ideal for advanced runners, while flat belts suit any running level. Motorized treadmills move the belt for you and often come with more tech features.
- What are your long-term fitness goals? When you invest in a treadmill, you want it to last as long as possible. If your long-term goal is a daily walk, an entry-level treadmill is enough. If you want to grow your fitness over time, choose a treadmill to handle your current and future fitness aspirations.
Get Strong and Feel Confident With The Treadmill Factory Today
Investing in a treadmill is also an investment in your health, fitness and confidence. It's natural to want the highest-quality treadmill you can find. At The Treadmill Factory, we have the experience and expertise to help you find the ideal option for your goals. We have partnerships with the most recognized manufacturers in the space, which means we can offer you high-quality equipment that lasts.
In addition to treadmills, we also have all the equipment you need to build a home gym. Make your health and fitness goals a reality with us. Browse our treadmill options online or find a store near you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out online or call us at 888-469-3031 and one of our experienced team members will be happy to help!
