A treadmill and regular exercise can benefit you if you want to lose weight or maintain a daily exercise routine from the comfort of your home. Globally, 43% of exercise people enjoy having a treadmill at home. However, while buying a treadmill, you must know how to buy the right one. This guide will help you know everything, from the right features to the factors you must consider. Here’s how to choose the right treadmill for you and your workout.
01. Decide on the treadmill size and the storage space
A treadmill is going to take up a lot of space. You need to first measure how much space you have for it and then decide the size of the treadmill.
Generally, a typical home treadmill is about 3 feet in width and 7 feet in length. If you don’t have that much space, don’t worry. You can get a foldable treadmill, too.
02. What kind of workouts are you planning for?
Do you want to do intense running sessions, or are you somebody who wants to take relaxing walks? Or somewhere in the middle?
You need to decide beforehand, as the motor power will vary according to the intensity of your workout session.
03. Decide on your budget
The durability and features of a treadmill will depend on how costly it is. Most treadmills priced on the lower side are not good for high-intensity workouts for a longer period.
Then, there are mid-range treadmills that rate higher on durability and power. They also have better features like bigger screens for display and steeper power inclines. Some might also have speakers.
04. Read Reviews
Though a test run is the best way to decide which treadmill to buy, you can also decide by reading its reviews. Go on the internet and look for genuine, honest reviews from real customers before you choose yours.
05. What kind of motor should it have?
The motor powers the track of a treadmill. Its capacity is measured by continuous horsepower (CHP) and/or horsepower (HP). The CHP should be taken into consideration while buying a treadmill.
You should consider your body weight and the workout you want to do while checking out the motor. If your weight is up to 90 kilograms, follow the recommendations below.
- Walking: 2.0 CHP or more
- Jogging: 2.5 CHP or more
- Running: At least 3.0 CHP
06. What should be the track size?
Runners must pay extra attention to track size. If you like taking longer runs at the treadmills, go for a treadmill with a 58-inch to 60-inch track size. (63 inches is the standard size.)
If you are a walker, a 55-inch track size will be sufficient.
07. How to choose the treadmill belt?
Most people consider three factors: lubrication, metal rollers, and thickness when they buy treadmills.
A four-ply or two-ply belt will be more durable. The more the thickness of the tread belt, the less noisy it would be.
Good lubrication ensures smoother operation. The ideal treadmill should have a silicone or other lubricant-infused maintenance-free track.
Metal rollers with large diameters put less pressure on the track. A 2.5-foot roller diameter is good for a home treadmill.
08. Check out the track speed
Most walkers are good with 10mph track speed. But a higher top speed, like 12mph, might be required for heavy runners.
09. Consider pre-set programs
Pre-set programs support your fitness journey. They control the speed as well as the incline of the treadmill. You can also find treadmills with advanced technology. Choose what suits you.
10. Look for the Warranty
The warranty of the treadmill will show how durable it is. Generally, labor, motor, frame, and parts are considered.
Ideally, you should get a lifetime guarantee for the motors. If not, you might get warranties between 2 and 25 years.
Most treadmills come with a lifetime frame warranty. The quality of labor or post-sale assistance varies with brands. Some might offer free labor, but others might require you to pay.
If you don’t get a lifetime warranty on the parts of your treadmill, see that you get a warranty of at least 1 year to 5 years.
Conclusion
You should also check out the extra features offered on your home treadmill. You’ll get a good deal when you heed the above lines during this investment!
