This article will help you to become familiar with how to buy a treadmill. It will discuss treadmill buying tips such as what to look for when purchasing one; where to find a treadmill and the best type for your budget level.
How do you make up your mind to buy a treadmill?
The experts say that you should not become too overwhelmed with the buying process. Businesses compete so the prices will vary. Here are tips that you can follow that will guide you on the right path.
Space and Storage
Before going out to buy a treadmill, it is advisable to measure the area for the equipment’s final resting place along with the space for storage. Some people may not store the exercise equipment in the same place they workout.
Try to get an image of yourself working out on a treadmill
Do you prefer to take long walks, or do you prefer to jog or run? These are helpful questions that you should ask yourself before selecting the motor power of the treadmill. If you exercise heavily, you will need a powerful engine. The questions will also help you to determine the track size of the treadmill. Taller runners will need the extra room to stretch.
Prepare a spending budget
The recommendation is to have an idea of how much you would like to spend. Also, everything is negotiable, and a few companies offer discounts. Quality treadmills for runners normally range from $1,999 and up. You can negotiate down to $1,499. Sale price on treadmills for walkers normally go for $999.
Treadmills priced way under $1,000 come with too many hassles. The machines squeak, and they break down often. Sometimes the electronics will stop working. In the long-run, you would not get a good value.
What to look for in a treadmill
• Size
A recommendation for treadmill size would be a 22” wide belt, which is better suited for athletes. If you walk, choose a 20” wide belt. The 20” belt will also work for runners. The extra 2” is just a little room for error. The length of the belt should be about 50” for walkers and 55” for runners. If runners are over 6’ tall, get a strap length of 60.”
The standard size for treadmills in a home gym is usually 7’ long and 3’ wide. There are much shorter ones. Be sure to get the right one based on your height and the space that you have available. They have foldable ones if you are concerned about space.
• Technological features
Does the treadmill has a space for your iPod? Does it have a USB port or a wireless internet connection? Additionally, check to see if the exercise equipment has “iFit” installed. It lets you download unlimited exercise programs. You will have to pay for the membership.
• Wireless Pulse Monitor
It will give you an accurate reading of your heart rate so that you do not over exert yourself.
• Can you adjust the speed?
The majority of the treadmills have speed set between 10-12 miles per hour. Some of them go faster. The incline is about 10-15 percent grade. Check to see if you can make any adjustments or if the incline is automatic.
• Programs to workout
Most of the treadmills on the market come with workout programs. Check to see if the one that you are purchasing has an exercise program.
• Cushioning and shock absorption
Try out the treadmill and see how comfortable the cushioning and shock absorption feel.
• Observe your walking and running
While you are walking or running upon trying out the treadmill, see if your feet hit the motor housing.
• Straddling the deck
When standing on the side of the rails, you should be able to straddle the deck with ease.
• Display monitor
You should be able to read the screen monitor with ease.
• Operation of the treadmill
Reaching the controls and operating the treadmill should not be a difficult task.
• Warranty
The warranty should include three to seven years of coverage for parts and one year for labor. There should also be a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.
• Assembly and delivery
All treadmills are heavy, so it is advisable to inquire about delivery and assembly. Also, ask if the price of assembly and delivery are part of the purchase price.
• Return Policy
Just in case you have to send the treadmill back, ask about their return policy.
Where do you find treadmills to purchase?
It is recommended to go in person and try out exercise equipment before purchasing. Please call the numbers provided to locate a store near you.
1. Sports Authority – (800) 360-8721
2. Horizon Fitness – (800) 962-3596
3. Life Fitness – (855) 483-6131
4. NordicTrack – (888) 308-9616
5. Gym Source – (800) 496-3499
6. Landice – (800) 526-3423
7. Sears – (800) 697-3277
Best type of treadmill for your budget level
• LifeSpan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
The price tag is about $899.00. It includes 17 preset workout regimen. It also has two heart rate zone workouts. The treadmill comes with a USB data port so that you can save your workout. There is a feature that tracks your workout online using Lifespan Fitness Club. Additionally, you can fold the machine in a vertical position for space saving.
• Sole Fitness F80 Folding Treadmill
The price tag is about $1,500. It has a motor of 3.5 horsepower. You can find the speed control and incline on the handle bar. Also, it comes with a pulse grip heart monitor that is compatible with a chest strap monitor. The weight capacity for the user is 375 LBS.
• Gold’s Gym 410 Treadmill
The price is about $400. For this price, the treadmill is not as durable as the others. It has 2.0 horsepower motor, and the weight limit is 300 LBS. It is best to use this type of treadmill for walking and not running. It has eight workouts and a hand grip pulse monitor. It also comes with a two-pound hand weight to work your upper body. Most beginners use this type of machine. The treadmill folds up for your convenience.
Conclusion
Before buying a treadmill, it is advisable to measure the space to make sure that you have the room for the equipment that you are purchasing. Take into consideration whether you prefer to go on long walks, or you prefer to run; that will help to determine the type of treadmill to purchase. Check your budget to see if the exercise equipment that you want is within the specified price range. Use the tips mentioned above to find out what to look for in your exercise equipment.