Treadmills
People likes to walk or run when exercising and it is thus not a secret either that when it comes to choosing a sports equipment for home use, the most popular choice seems to be the treadmill. Since they are generally expensive, it is therefore wise to know some key features before you go out and buy some of the best treadmills for your own personal use.
Treadmill Buying Guide
1) Motors & Rollers
It is assumed that the bigger the motor, the better the treadmill is. Wrong! What you should be looking out for is "continuous duty rating" horsepower. Generally it is between 1.5 - 2.5 although it is generally sufficient to go for one above 2.0 for peak performance. Do take note of the cooling mechanisms of the system as a good one reduces heat from the motor more efficiently, thereby reducing wear and tear on the motor and other moving parts.
** Here’s a big one - the bigger and heavier the rollers, the better. Larger rollers rotate less hence less wear and tear on the treadmill.
2) Manual Or Motorized?
Although the manual version is cheaper than the motorized version, it is also more difficult to get it going without an inclination. With motorized treadmill, you can adjust for varying inclination, speed and resistance at the push of a button thereby giving you different exercising routines.
3) Folding Or Non-Folding?
This really depends on your room space. Since a treadmill take up a lot of space, having a foldable version means you can fold it up after use and store in your storeroom or under the bed. If you intend on buying, choose one that is stable, easy to fold and can be moved around the house quickly.
4) Belt Size
To accommodate the natural stride length and side-to-side movement of runners, it is advisable to choose treadmill that is between 16" - 22" in width and 45" - 60" in length. Taller people with longer strides may need to get one with a wider and longer belt treadmills for convenience.
5) Shock Absorption System
Since running produces constant "shock" to the ankles and knees, it is of utmost important that a good treadmill have excellent cushioning system that helps to absorb the impact from running. When you run on the deck, it should not feel spongy or too hard.
6) Features
At the basic level, a treadmill should have preset and custom programs to give you variety in your exercise routines. Other extras you might need include calories burnt, pulse monitor etc.
7) Price
Depends on your budget. There are 3 types of treadmills to choose from ranging from budget (under $1,000), mid-range (between $1,001 to $2,000) and high-end (above $2,000). The difference between each price range treadmill have more to do with branding, quality and features.
Treadmill Reviews & Ratings
We found the best treadmill reviews from Consumer Reports and Treadmill Doctor. Fitness experts there reviewed some of the best treadmill models from reliable and trusted makers such as Bowflex, Epic, Horizon Fitness, Image, Landice, Life Fitness, Lifespan, New Balance, Nordic Track, Pace Master, Precor, Proform, Smooth Fitness, Sole, Spirit, SportsArt, True and Vision Fitness. Treadmill ratings based on ease of use, ergonomics, construction and exercise range determines the best treadmills in their class.
Best Treadmill (<$1000)
Treadmill Reviews #1: Equally great with its fair share of good treadmill reviews is the top rated Smooth 5.25 Folding Treadmill. If you want value for money, then this Smooth treadmill fits the bill. Features powerful, yet quiet 2.5-HP motor and large 2.5" commercial grade rollers to deliver better and longer lasting performance than most of its competitors. Comes with generous 20" x 53" belt size to accommodate even the biggest and tallest of runners. Comes equipped with 6 preset programs as well as LCD computer console that displays time, speed, distance, calories burnt and pulse check. Folds easily to minimize storage space. At under $1000, this treadmill is definitely a good buy.
Best Treadmill ($1001 - $2000)
Treadmill Reviews #2: Surpassing high expectations with outstanding treadmill reviews from users and expert testers is the best rated Sole F80 Treadmill. For everything you want in a treadmill and more to keep yourself fit, this Sole treadmill will never disappoint. This best treadmill from Sole features strong 3.0-HP continuous-duty motor with big 2.75" rollers to ensure that you get peak performance for a long time. Patented Cushion Flex Whisper Deck running platform reduces impact on ankles, joints and knees by up to 40% (when compared to running on asphalt). Generous 20" x 55" running belt accommodates everyone, big or small, tall or short. Comes with 10 workout programs, 0-11 mph speed range, 0-15% inclination and together with great electronic console that measures speed, time, distance etc it ensures that every workout will be a joy. At less than $2000, this treadmill is worth its price.
Treadmill Reviews #3: Setting new standard with superb treadmill reviews from treadmill experts and consumers is the best rated Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill. For intense cardiovascular workout to keep yourself fit, this Bowflex treadmill will be the perfect machine. This best treadmill from Bowflex features 3.0-HP continuous-duty motor and 2.5" rollers to provide long-lasting performance for years to come. Comes with longer and wider 20" x 60" running surface with Strike Zone Deck Cushioning system to reduce stress on ankles, joints and knees on impact. With 15 workout programs, 0-11 mph speed range, 0-12% inclination, LCD display to record distance, speed and time, 3-speed fan for cooling plus lots of additional features makes this treadmill a joy to be with.
Best Treadmill (>$2000)
Treadmill Reviews #4: Topping the list with rave treadmill reviews from pros and users alike is the best rated Landice L770 LTD Pro Sports Trainer Treadmill. For fitness enthusiasts who demand nothing but the best, then surely this Landice treadmill is the one. This best treadmill from Landice features 3.0-HP continuous-duty Baldor motor with large 2.5" steel rollers for continuous operation without fail for many years. Comes in 20" x 60" belt with VFX shock absorption for the most comfort in running whilst minimizing ankles, joints and knees injuries. Built-in workouts with 0.5-11 mph speed range and 0-15% inclination offers variety in exercise for intense workouts.
Treadmill Reviews #5: Delivering peak performance with marvelous treadmill reviews from experts is the best rated Nordic Track S3000 Treadmill. For the extra boost to propel yourself even further, let this Nordic treadmill be the booster. Boasting an enormous 5.0-HP motor with 2.75" precision rollers for long lasting durability. Features 20" x 60" belt with DuraSoft Rubber Insulator Cushioning to lessen impact on joints and knees. Includes 13 workout programs with 0-12 mph speed range and 0-15% inclination to give variety in exercising. Comes with EKG Grip Heart Rate Monitoring System.
Treadmill Reviews #6: Simply magnificent with remarkable treadmill reviews from treadmill pros is the best rated Pace Master Gold Elite Treadmill. For all the power you need to keep on going and going, you have to thank this Pace Master treadmill for that. This best treadmill from Pacemaster features 3.0-HP McMillan motor with 2.75" rollers for added durability for years to come. Comes with 20" x 60" 2-ply stretch-resistant Textglide belt with Tri-Flex Impact Shock Management system for maximum shock absorption to protect ankles, hips, joints and knees from injuries. Includes 15 workout programs with 9 intensity levels plus 0.5-12 mph speed range and 0-15% inclination for added exercise flexibility.
Resources: Treadmill (Wikipedia)