Archive for the ‘Equipment’ Category
Budget Treadmills – What You Need to Know!
So you want to get back into shape and lose those unwanted pounds. The problem is you have a limited budget, so a commercial grade model is out of the question. In fact, your limited to models under $1,000.
This puts you in the budget treadmill category. Although they may not be a sturdy as high-end treadmills, there are some budget models that can help you acheive your fitness goals without requiring a second mortgage.
There are several considerations before purchasing a budget treadmill.
Budget treadmills have some limitations. They are not designed to train for marathons, and they are not built to withstand hours of usage per day. Budget treadmills are best designed for walkers, although certain models in the $800+ range can handle joggers.
Budget treadmill are not as durable as more expensive models. They are built with budget parts. Your chances of needing service increase in comparison to higher priced machines.
Budget treadmills come with budget warranties. Some have coverage for only 90 days. I recommend you get an extended warranty that covers you for at least two years. If the machine breaks it is not your problem.
Usually the specified user weight limited is too high. It is absurd to suggest a treadmill for under $1,000 can handle a 300+ lbs user.
Here are some recommendations regarding the features of a budget treadmill.
Motor - You need a motor that is sufficient enough to work without straining at higher speeds or steeper inclines. I recommend at least a 2.5 continuous duty HP motor.
Treadbelt Length – You want a length that is adequate for your height. For an average individual a 54″ treadbelt is sufficient. If you are over 6’3″ you may need to upgrade to a model that has a 60″ treadbelt.
Stability - Budget treadmills are often lightweight treadmills. You want a model that is stable when walking or jogging. Some models under $600 may bounce around when you use them. The heavier you are the heavier you need your treadmill.
User Programs – Some people prefer manually adjusting their treadmill. However, a selection of challenging programs can be very motivating. You want to get a treadmill that has at least 6 workout programs. User defined functions can also be a plus.
Brand Recognition – There are countless brands of treadmills, some are decent while others are junk. Check out both expert and customer reviews. Learn which brands have the best track record. Equally important, find manufacturers that have a good customer service reputation. Go to the Treadmill Buyer’s Guide to learn more about treadmill features.)
Here are some recommendations. Icon Fitness, which builds ProForm and NordicTrack treadmills, dominate the budget market. They tend to offer some of the best value and pack their models with impressive features, considering what you pay for them. Focus on their models that are on sale.
On the high-end of the budget category, both Smooth and Sole have an entry model that starts at $1,000. Both offer a lifetime warranty on the motor and 3-year parts coverage.
In general I would caution on buying a treadmill below $600. Considering the abuse a treadmill takes in order to function, you want to avoid a cheap treadmill with cheap parts. And you are not going to get into shape or lose weight when your treadmill is an oversize clothes hanger that doesn’t work.
When buying a budget treadmill do your research and use some common sense and you will end up with a machine that will help you achieve your fitness goals.
By: Fred Waters
About the Author:
This puts you in the budget treadmill category. Although they may not be a sturdy as high-end treadmills, there are some budget models that can help you acheive your fitness goals without requiring a second mortgage.
There are several considerations before purchasing a budget treadmill.
Budget treadmills have some limitations. They are not designed to train for marathons, and they are not built to withstand hours of usage per day. Budget treadmills are best designed for walkers, although certain models in the $800+ range can handle joggers.
Budget treadmill are not as durable as more expensive models. They are built with budget parts. Your chances of needing service increase in comparison to higher priced machines.
Budget treadmills come with budget warranties. Some have coverage for only 90 days. I recommend you get an extended warranty that covers you for at least two years. If the machine breaks it is not your problem.
Usually the specified user weight limited is too high. It is absurd to suggest a treadmill for under $1,000 can handle a 300+ lbs user.
Here are some recommendations regarding the features of a budget treadmill.
Motor - You need a motor that is sufficient enough to work without straining at higher speeds or steeper inclines. I recommend at least a 2.5 continuous duty HP motor.
Treadbelt Length – You want a length that is adequate for your height. For an average individual a 54″ treadbelt is sufficient. If you are over 6’3″ you may need to upgrade to a model that has a 60″ treadbelt.
Stability - Budget treadmills are often lightweight treadmills. You want a model that is stable when walking or jogging. Some models under $600 may bounce around when you use them. The heavier you are the heavier you need your treadmill.
User Programs – Some people prefer manually adjusting their treadmill. However, a selection of challenging programs can be very motivating. You want to get a treadmill that has at least 6 workout programs. User defined functions can also be a plus.
Brand Recognition – There are countless brands of treadmills, some are decent while others are junk. Check out both expert and customer reviews. Learn which brands have the best track record. Equally important, find manufacturers that have a good customer service reputation. Go to the Treadmill Buyer’s Guide to learn more about treadmill features.)
Here are some recommendations. Icon Fitness, which builds ProForm and NordicTrack treadmills, dominate the budget market. They tend to offer some of the best value and pack their models with impressive features, considering what you pay for them. Focus on their models that are on sale.
On the high-end of the budget category, both Smooth and Sole have an entry model that starts at $1,000. Both offer a lifetime warranty on the motor and 3-year parts coverage.
In general I would caution on buying a treadmill below $600. Considering the abuse a treadmill takes in order to function, you want to avoid a cheap treadmill with cheap parts. And you are not going to get into shape or lose weight when your treadmill is an oversize clothes hanger that doesn’t work.
When buying a budget treadmill do your research and use some common sense and you will end up with a machine that will help you achieve your fitness goals.
By: Fred Waters
About the Author:
Fred Waters is the former V.P. of marketing for a fitness equipment manufacturer. He offers professional advice in the selection and purchase of treadmills at his Treadmill Review site.
Meagan Agnew
