One of the staple exercise machines that most fitness buffs have and use today regularly is a treadmill. Working out regularly on a treadmill can help you lose weight, stay fit, and build muscles. It can also help protect you from the negative effects of age-related health conditions such as diabetes and heart diseases. A lot of studies have also found out that working out on a treadmill regularly can help alleviate depression and insomnia.
If you want to reap the benefits of working out on a treadmill regularly without having to spend time and effort to go to the gym, you can invest in this exercise machine for your personal use. With a treadmill right in the comfort of your home, you can work out anytime you want to and you won’t lose time preparing for and commuting or driving to go to the gym.
To make sure that you will be buying a good quality treadmill that meets your requirements or preferences, below are some key considerations you should bear in mind:
Motor control. The first and most significant thing to consider when buying a treadmill is the motor. It is crucial that you choose the right exercise machine with the right type of motor to make sure that you always get great workouts and a long life out of your treadmill. Top fitness experts recommend that first time buyers invest in a machine with at least 1.5 horsepower for a continuous duty motor. If you plan on running on the treadmill often, choose one with a 2.5 to 3.0 horsepower.
Proper cushioning. Choose a machine which has a running bed that can properly absorb shock. Also, make sure the belt and bed should not move around whenever your foot strikes it.
The belt size. Fitness experts say that the belt of a treadmill you should have and use must be at least 48 inches long and 16 inches wide.
Stability. The treadmill you eventually invest in should not shake when you run or walk on it. Its frame should always remain stable as well.
The right incline. For a safer and more effective workout, the treadmill should have an incline that can go up to 10 percent.
Control panel. Lastly, the control panel of the exercise equipment should be easy to reach or easily accessible. Choose one that is simple and easy to use as well.