Buying a Gym Treadmill
Every treadmill must endure inside consumer reports labs, testers also assess how well a treadmill is constructed, measure how well it fits the typical user, and rate its overall performance. This guide will get you off and running with expert advice on picking the best treadmill for you.
Treadmill prices can run from as little as three hundred dollars all the way up to more than ten thousand dollars. Finding the best treadmill depends on whether you want to walk or run your fitness goals and how much space you have, if you’re going to use a treadmill mainly for walking most models we tested should fit the bill but if you want to run you’ll need to consider the construction and deck size of the treadmill more carefully.
Don’t forget about speed and incline, the fastest treadmill delivers speeds of about twelve to fourteen miles per hour. This might not sound so speedy but twelve miles per hour is a five-minute per mile pace. That’s fast enough to win the New York City Marathon when it comes to hills and inclines, a fifteen percent grade is about the maximum you can find which should be plenty steep for most people.
Be realistic about your fitness goals and what features you actually need in a treadmill. Before you spend extra money on the things you might not use, let your goals determine which treadmill is best for you.
Consumer Reports says if you’re the type of walker or runner who wants to be entertained while exercising look for treadmills with a variety of built-in fitness programs along with Bluetooth and mobile app connectivity. If your approach is more no-nonsense feel the burn then focus on treadmills with a wide range of speed and incline settings as well as heart rate monitoring and other programs specifically designed to help you reach more intense fitness goals.
Treadmills that score very good to excellent in our exercise range tests can support novice exercisers two seasoned pros.
We’ll talk more about programs and features in the key features chapter. It is also important to make sure you have a big enough area for your treadmill. On average treadmills measure about 77 inches long and 35 inches wide, folding treadmills will take up about half of their length once folded. For easy access and safety, you’ll want a clear area of about two or three feet on each side and about six to eight feet at the back of the treadmill.
All treadmills are essentially a machine with a moving belt that allows you to walk, jog or run. Beyond that, manufacturers offer different options and features at different price points. To help you narrow the search based on your needs and budget.
Types of Treadmills:
Consumer Reports divides treadmills into three categories-
- Budget Folding
- Folding
- Non Folding
- Budget Folding Treadmills
Budget Folding treadmills typically range in price from about 300 to $1000. If you prefer walking, a budget folding treadmill should work fine at a minimum. They offer a display for speed, distance, time, and calories and as their name implies. They fold up to save space, the convenience and price come with some trade-offs.
When Consumer Reports assesses how well treadmills are constructed models in this price range, don’t score as well as pricier versions. In general, they tend to have shorter warranties, less powerful motors and are constructed with lighter-weight materials which can make them feel less stable than more expensive models. They frequently have shorter decks which aren’t great for runners with a longer stride. If you want to jog or occasionally run and then store the treadmill between workout sessions.
- Folding Treadmills
Consumer Reports tests show that paying a little more money for a mid-price folding model buys you a more durable treadmill. Plus they often come with a large variety of exercise programs, so you can mix up your workout. However, the decks on some may be too short for the runners with a longer stride.
- Non Folding Treadmills
So be sure to check this out before buying, dedicated runners should opt for a non-folding treadmill. These typically have longer sturdier decks made from thicker materials and more powerful motors to accommodate faster paces and heavier users. These also boast the highest maximum speeds and inclines but when it comes to the variety they tend to provide fewer built-in programs. They’re also the priciest and take up the most space.
Many treadmills come with docks for electronic devices along with USB ports and wireless connectivity. You can tune in while working out. Other models offer features such as fans and fitness trackers but our experts say that they might not be necessary and can be purchased separately.
It’s easier and less expensive to replace a fan when it’s not connected to a treadmill. Built-in exercise programs are great for adding variety and intensity to your workout. Some manufacturers offer lots of programs. The Consumer Report says you can get by with just a few basic programs that address specific types of workout manufactures.
All have different names for these programs with some basic patterns-
- Hill Climb
- Stepped/Varied Interval
- Slow, Long Distance
- Random
Helps you track how hard you’re working and measure. Your exercise intensity walkers will be fine with hand grip monitors for runners. Consumer Report says to consider a chest strap monitor when you’re moving fast. They’re more convenient and can give a more accurate and consistent reading, but not all treadmills come with them and chest straps. You buy separately might not be compatible with your treadmill so be sure to check before you buy.
Our experts strongly recommend testing the treadmill in person before you buy it. Here’s what to look for at the store. First look for solid well-made construction, wide foot rails allow you to get on and off the treadmill. Easier try the handrails and handles and make sure they feel comfortable and don’t get in the way when you are walking or running.
Also, check your feet don’t hit the motor housing while you’re on the move. You can also read our article on Tips for Buying a Home Treadmill
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Content Written by Shreya Gangrade
Edited & Managed by Raju Gorla