Treadmills

Treadmills (or Running machines) can be a very useful tool for any runner, most modern machines now have a multitude of features that make them invaluable to anyone wishing to improve their running technique or gain information about speed, distance etc..

The Mechanism

This mechanism allows the speed of the run to be set or measured, as the runner moves at the rate at which the belt moves.

Benefits

Here’s a few of the advantages of using one as a part of your training program:

a) Gives you the control to change and monitor your speed levels, which is great when training for a race.

b) You can easily calculate the energy spent as all the main factors of the run are known

c) Specific features such as step count, heart rate monitors and amount of calories burnt, help you to design your fitness regime better

d) Exercise is less complex than other cardiovascular exercises

e) Can be adjusted to provide you with different running experiences, such as hills, intervals, and tempo runs (subject to the type of treadmill)

f) You can use one in the privacy and comfort of your own home and also do other things, such as watch television simultaneously, some even come with a built in screen.

g) Shock absorption provides the benefit of reduced impact, therefore resulting in fewer injuries.

h) Extremely useful in unfavorable weather conditions such as cold or rain, which hinder any outdoor activity

i) reduced strain on ankles, knees and the lower back and provides exercise to muscles in a uniform manner

They have become the favorite home exercise choice. According to the National Sporting Goods Association, sales in the 1990s exceeded the sale figures of all other home exercise equipment.

Buyers Guide

1) Know your requirement: The first thing you need to consider is your own individual requirement. Look at the following factors:

- Space available
- Goal of exercise
- Budget

If you’re short on room, opt for a folding machine that collapses for easy storage. Similarly, if you have a limited budget, look for the discounts available, especially on the internet. Discount and sale treadmills can offer you the best of deals on some of the finest treadmills on the market.

2) Cost matters: Although you might be working on a budget bear in mind that a slightly higher cost could give you added benefits that would be useful for your particular requirements. It is sometimes better to save a little longer to get the correct running machine rather than jump in and buy the first and cheapest one that you see.

For instance, a £500 machine may serve the purpose. However, a £700 machine is likely to serve you for a longer time, ask for fewer repairs and offer more functions.

3) User-friendly traits: Look for features that make it easier for you to use. Amongst others, these could include readouts, programmed workouts and heart-rate training capability.

You can also see if the treadmill’s speed and incline ranges suit your training requirement.

4) Commercial details: Go through the warranty details carefully. Examine the life expectancy figures listed in the literature. Normally, the range of an average treadmill’s life is seven to twelve years but some of the better end treadmills offer lifetime warranties on the motor, which could be costly to replace if the need arose.

5) Maintenance requirements: Enquire about the possible requirement of repair in the future. You should know that a treadmill is often difficult to repair and requires technical expertise. It helps to know how much after-purchase maintenance the machine will require.

6) Power measure : Look for the horsepower (h.p.) rating. Horsepower (h.p.) is a measure of motor power, you will require a 1.5 h.p. or a higher motor for a home treadmill. (see the guide at the bottom of this page.)

7) The Belt Size: Look for the correct belt size to facilitate the long stride and natural side-to-side movement of runners. Though 20-inch belts are available, you will probably find more 17 or 18 inch machines, meanwhile, the length of the running area should be at least 50 inches.

8) The Deck: The deck or the bed should be made of laminated wood, coated with lubricants to minimize friction between the belt and the deck. Second to the motor, this is one of the most important parts of a running machine.

9) Other parts: Requirements for some of the other parts of a running machine are:

a) The frame should be of a high alloy steel. For the home, select a bolted frame.
b) The hand rails should be designed such that they don’t interfere with your arm swings.

Effective Usage

Maintenance

In addition, keep the floor around your machine clean and moisture-free.

Treadmill Reviews