1. NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
2. NordicTrack T 7.5S Treadmill
3. XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
4. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Treadmill
5. MaxKare Folding Treadmill
6. Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
7. ProForm Performance 300i Treadmill
8. LifeSpan TR1200 Under Desk Treadmill
9. Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Treadmill Buying Guide And FAQ
Features To Look For In Best Treadmills
We know you are excited to get started on your home workout routines. But there are a few features you need to consider before placing an order for a treadmill. These features, such as size, programs, and weight capacity, determine how much value you get out of the machine.
Size - Treadmills come in different sizes, and before you buy one, you must consider how much room you can afford in your home or office. Measure out your preferred or available space. Once you have determined the length, width, and height, then you can go shopping. Most manufacturers have the dimension of the product listed for you to learn if it fits your available space. Also, note that the ideal space for your treadmill needs a minimum of three inches of clearance space on each side.
Incline - In a certain sense, a treadmill with an incline is not necessary. However, if you want a varied exercise, you need one with the feature. An inclined level allows faster calorie burn, aid muscle definition, and are easier on jour joints. As always, different manufacturers have different inclined mechanisms. Some are manual, others, automatic. Your choice depends on your budget.
You should note that the best treadmills have a minimum of 10 percent incline or higher. There are treadmills with different levels, ranging from 10% to 40%. The best maximum incline level is 40%.
Belt Length - Belt length is closely related to size. It is the biggest determinant of the size of a treadmill. All you need to know is the best treadmills have a minimum of 50 inches for walkers and 55 inches for runners. If you are 6 feet tall, you need a minimum of 60 inches as a runner. For belt width, you will be OK with a minimum of 20 inches for walkers and 22 inches for runners.
Declines - Similar to incline features, the decline of a treadmill aids faster calorie burn. The incline and decline feature helps you simulate an outside environment's conditions inside the comfort of your home.
Not every treadmill has a decline feature. They tend to exist at the upper price spectrum of treadmills. Regardless, if you insist on one, get one with a minimum of 0-10% decline. It has can as high as 40%, but it should not be more than that.
Speeds - Not every treadmill is ideal for running. Treadmills in this category usually have a maximum speed of less than 10mph. They are generally cheaper, and if you only plan on walking or jogging, they are good enough. However, if you plan on running a lot, you need a treadmill that offers at least or more than 10mph in speed.
More so, treadmills with up to 10mph or more are better suited for runners. Ultimately, you need to identify how fast you plan to go and buy a treadmill that falls within the speed range.
Programs - A lot of treadmills come with preset workout programs. They cover different kinds of training goals, from endurance to weight loss training. Selecting each program adjusts the speed or incline/decline of the treadmill whenever necessary. Some programs are in-built by the manufacturer, while some just connect to workout applications like iFit or Passport Virtual Active Technology.
If you don’t want to be stuck with the preset workout programs, you should buy treadmills in the latter category. This will allow you to explore varied workout programs overtime.
Deck - The deck is the platform where you do all your running or walking. The thicker it is, the more comfortable your legs and joints. The best treadmills have decks designed for impact absorption. Each manufacturer has its patented methods for achieving this, just make sure you test it out, and it is the right fit for you.
Holders - Holders are part of extra features that allow you to get the most of your treadmill. There are cup holders, smartphone/tablet holders, or TV. The right additional feature can be motivating and allows you to get other stuff done while you are exercising. Just make sure their application does not interfere with the primary purpose of the treadmill.
Emergency Stop - With a machine that involves speed and smooth surfaces, safety is a necessary feature to consider. Whether you are buying for yourself or your elderly ones, be sure that the treadmill has a straightforward and efficient safety feature. Most treadmills come with a safety key that attaches your clothing and the machine. When the key disengages from you, the treadmill goes off. Other common safety features include handrails and safety codes.
Fold - If you are strapped for space to put a non-folding treadmill, folding treadmills are excellent compromises. They are equally as efficient and are available across all price categories. Different products have different folding mechanisms. Some are automatic, and others are manual.
If you are getting a manual controlled folding treadmill, make sure it is lightweight and has transport wheels. It will make it easier to fold and transport to the storage space. Also, make sure it locks in place when folded. You don’t want it to fall on a person or valuable item accidentally.
Weight Capacity - The weight capacity of the treadmill is another essential feature you have to consider before buying one. Each machine has a maximum weight where it can still operate efficiently. Make sure you buy a treadmill that allows up to 25kg more than you or the intended user weighs.
Treadmill FAQ
Q: Are treadmills bad for you?
A: No, treadmills are not bad for you. They are safe, controlled machines that are easier on your legs and feet. Like most things, it is not without its downsides, such as making it your only source of exercise. Doing so can lead to injury over time. Overall, they are safe and have a positive impact on your body.
Q: Should I oil my treadmill?
A: Yes, at regular intervals. If you are a regular user, you should lubricate every three months or after 130 miles. Intensive users should lubricate at even more frequent intervals. This is important in preserving the long-term life of the treadmill.
Q: Can you lose weight working out 30 minutes a day?
A: Yes. A few studies and several anecdotes have shown that exercising 30 minutes a day consistently is enough to lose weight. In many circles, 30 minutes is the perfect length of daily workout. It leaves you with extra energy throughout the day.
Q: Is holding onto the treadmill bad?
A: You shouldn’t hold on the treadmill during an exercise. It limits the positive effects of your workout and can cause bad posture and reduce burned calories. Also, it is just an unnatural walking or running technique.
Q: How long do treadmills last?
A: The best treadmills have a lifespan of 7 to 12 years. This is, of course, dependent on regular maintenance and quality care. There is no standard expiry date, but if you buy a quality product and maintain it well, you should get up to seven years out of it at a minimum.
