Buying a Treadmill

Want to Buy a Treadmill? Learn How to Select the One That’s Right for You

What is a treadmill?

A treadmill is an indoor exercise machine that is used to simulate running or walking in place. It does this by way of a moving belt over a base. They can be adjusted to various speeds depending on the needs of the user.

Why buy a treadmill?

The main reason why anyone buys a treadmill is to keep fit. Few pieces of exercise equipment offer the benefits of a treadmill. Walking is a natural function of humans and research has shown that persons with treadmills tend to stick to this type of exercise a lot longer than with other types of exercise equipment.

What to Look For When Buying a Treadmill

There are three main questions to answer when you decide to buy a treadmill. These are:

1. Who will be using the treadmill: Who will be using the equipment the most is an important factor when deciding to buy a treadmill. A treadmill that will be used by a family of three or four will often need to be different than one being used for a single person.

   The weight of those who will use it should also be taken into consideration before selecting the piece of equipment.

2. How will the treadmill be used: A treadmill is generally used at least five days per week for 30 minute sessions. As such, if there is a chance the treadmill will be used more or less often, this should be considered before making a purchase.

   A professional weightlifter would definitely need a different type of treadmill than a 50-year old grandmother or a long distance runner.

3. Where will the treadmill be kept and used: It goes without saying that if you live in a small apartment, you cannot buy the biggest, fanciest treadmill on the market. As such, your choice of treadmill depends also on the available space.

   For persons with space issues, consider buying a treadmill that can be folded up when not in use. However, remember that if it is difficult or time-consuming to store and set-up the equipment each time, you will eventually find excuses not to use it.

   The weight of the treadmill is also important in any buying decision. If you live upstairs or will be using the exercise machine upstairs, make sure that the floor was made for that sort of weight.

   On the other hand, if you have lots of space and can afford it, you may decide to buy a commercial treadmill, especially if you plan on using it often.

4. Price: For many people looking to buy a treadmill, the price will be the ultimate deciding factor. Treadmill prices vary greatly depending on size, quality and features. They generally range from around $300 for a budget treadmill (not generally recommended) to over $5000 for a top-of-the-line treadmill.

5. Manual or motorized: When looking for treadmills to purchase, the decision may come down to getting a manual one or a motorized one. Ideally, the motorized treadmill will be a better buy for your money. Adjusting the incline and speed of a motorized treadmill is a feature not found on manual treadmills.

Getting a secondhand treadmill is another option that can be explored on the road to fitness but you need to be aware of the associated disadvantages and advantages. The main disadvantage of a second-hand treadmill is the shortened lifespan. As such, find out how old the equipment is before purchasing.

For many persons who are seeking a treadmill, a second-hand one may be their best option. However, if you decide to purchase a used treadmill, check around first to see if you can get a new one at a discounted rate.

Making the decision to purchase a treadmill to improve or maintain your fitness is a good one, but knowing how to select a treadmill is an important first step.

Thank you to Jessica McCurdy Crooks for this “Buying a Treadmill” article.

Latest Top Buying Tips Articles: