Of all the pieces of home fitness equipment available, people buy home treadmills more than nearly any other type of fitness equipment. They are easy to use, functional, and are a great way to manage weight and burn calories. And, with the summer heat in Arizona, a home treadmill is the perfect way to stay in shape while strengthening your cardiovascular system. But, this also means there are a lot of choices out there. This treadmill buying guide is designed to help you find the best home treadmill.
Take your time
Before you decide on a treadmill, do a little homework first online. There is a wide range of treadmill brands out there, and there is a lot of truth to the idea of “you get what you pay for”. You want to make sure you find a reputable dealer that can help you find the equipment that works for both your needs as well as your budget. And, when you find a dealer, make sure you take some time to test the treadmill in order to make sure you are comfortable with it before purchasing it.
Define exactly what you’re looking for.
If you’re buying a treadmill for your family, your fitness goals may be different from theirs. You also want to make sure you’re buying a quality treadmill that can withstand the wear and tear of not just you, but your entire family as well. Paying a little more now for a quality treadmill may save you money – and frustration – in the long term.
Research online to understand what you can find for your budget
Many specialty fitness retailers are not allowed to sell outside their sales territory, meaning that the better quality treadmill brands probably aren’t going to be found at a big-box retailer or on Amazon. Do some local research on local specialty fitness retailers, and take a look at their websites to get an idea of what you can find for your budget.
Visit your local specialty fitness retailer
Your local specialty fitness equipment store has a more educated staff, better quality equipment, and the ability to deliver, install and service your equipment. Your local sporting goods store may not. Keep in mind that when you visit your local specialty fitness equipment retailer, you’re just doing research at this point – but you’ll be getting advice and suggestions from those that specialize in treadmills, and can help you get a better idea of what will work best for your needs and budget.
Make sure you try the equipment out
You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive. A quality treadmill is an investment in your health. Make sure you try it out. Features such as orthopedic decks, multi-function touchscreen displays, and commercial grade construction may be a requirement for your fitness goals, but if they’re not, you may be able to get a quality piece of equipment without breaking the bank. At the same time, if you have bad joints, or want additional entertainment options while you workout, your local specialty fitness retailer can help direct you to those brands with orthopedic / cushioned decks as well as a variety of displays that can help you stay motivated during your workouts.
Warranty and Maintenance
Higher quality brands of fitness equipment last longer and have fewer issues than some of the “cheap” brands out there. But, even with that, if you do have an issue with your treadmill, you want to be able to get it fixed. A quality unit is a long-term investment. Most quality treadmills will offer a lifetime warranty on the frame. When it comes to other components, look for a warranty that provides for at least 1 year of labor and a minimum of 1-3 years coverage on parts. And, make sure the warranty covers motor, deck & belt, and electronics.
If you live it the Phoenix area, Fitness 4 Home Superstore is one of the Valley’s premier specialty fitness equipment dealers, carrying top treadmill brands including True, Spirit, Precor, and Body Solid. Visit our website or stop into any of our three Valley locations to learn more about our treadmill offerings.
