Shopping for a home treadmill can be very intimidating! There are so many different brands, models and styles it can be next to impossible to choose the right one for your home. For most people, buying a home treadmill is a major investment. It’s also a good investment for those who have decided to make a conscious effort to be fit and healthy. That is why it is important to put together a checklist that identifies attributes that are most important for you and your workout. Here are some tips that should help you out:
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- The first thing you should consider when choosing a treadmill is the construction. A well-constructed treadmill is something that everyone in your family can enjoy. You will want a treadmill that is built with high alloy steel or aluminum frame that is strong enough to support the heaviest person. Some machines come with a weight limit – make sure that limit won’t inhibit your workout.
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- Quality is also very important when shopping for a home treadmill. Better quality treadmills provide cushioning to limit the impact on your knees, ankles, hips and lower back. Your body absorbs up to 2 ½ times your body weight when your feet hit the belt. You’ll also probably want a treadmill that has 1.5 to 3.0 horsepower to regulate power and prevent surges. One key thing to remember is that a larger motor will probably run cooler and require less repair and/or maintenance! Don’t forget to check the length of the manufacturer’s warranty – the longer the better!
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- How will you be using your home treadmill? Will you be walking? Jogging? Running? Depending on the type of exercise you’ll be doing, you may need a machine that is sturdier than others. Always keep in mind that you get what you pay for! A heavy-duty treadmill can withstand running as well as walking, but be prepared to spend more money. If you’re planning to use a treadmill purely for walking, you probably don’t need an expensive, top-of-the-line machine.
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- Watch out for noise! A major consideration for a home treadmill is the amount of noise it can produce. A loud machine can drown out a lot of noise – kids, television, oven timers, etc. And some small, repetitive sounds can drive a person crazy and provide you with one more reason not to exercise. We recommend testing a treadmill before you buy it. Turn it on and step on it so you can assess the noise level and see if it’s something you can live with.
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- One feature that is absolutely necessary for a home treadmill is an emergency stop button or a safety key. If you or one of your family members accidentally trip, stumble or fall, you can pull the key or push the button to turn the machine off automatically. Remember – this is a machine and not a toy! Don’t leave anything to chance.
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- And finally, don’t forget the bells and whistles! The newest models come with many extra features, but if there’s one we recommend as a necessity, it’s a heart rate monitor. Using a heart rate monitor during your workout will help you adjust the speed or incline to keep your heart rate in the optimum zone. It’s a good investment in your health!
These tips, along with your own personal preferences, should make choosing a home treadmill easier for you and your family. At Fitness 4 Home Superstore, we carry some of the best home treadmills from trusted brands like True, Precor, and Spirit. Stop by any of our three Phoenix metro superstores and check out our selection. Don’t forget your checklist!
