Article written

  • on 27.05.2010
  • at 12:55 PM
  • by Rob

Treadmill Basics 0

May27

Picking out the right treadmill from the thousands on offer can be a tricky task. The key to finding the right one is to look at the basics first. All treadmills serve the same purpose, which is to allow you to run, but they vary considerably in comfort and functionality. Price is probably the most important factor for most people, and you almost always get what you pay for. The cheaper models offer a limited amount of comfort, whereas the most expensive one’s offer the best indoor running experience and comfort.

The running deck is what you run on, and there are a few types to consider. The best treadmills have shock absorbers and cushioning underneath the belt which provide a softer and more comfortable running base. This is vital if you want to avoid running injuries such as shin splints. The cheap models do not have these protective absorbers and are much more uncomfortable to run on, instead using felt to cushion the impact of the runner. The argos catalogue has a good choice of cheaper treadmills which may suit beginners who do not want to fork out too much cash. Another important factor is the size of the running belt. If you plan on doing some serious running then you want a wider track to avoid falling off and injuring yourself. The belt can become worn after prolonged use, and yet again, the most expensive designs will last much longer than the cheap designs.

Many people also want extra functions and capabilities such as inclines and speed control. A good quality treadmill will offer calorie counting, different programs for hill running and speed testing, and a heart rate monitor on the side of the machine. You can add other functions to any treadmill such as a dvd player and mp3 connectivity. These can be bought from most internet stores such as littlewoods online for little expense, just make sure they are compatible with your machine before you buy them.

The final factor is the motor power and size. Commercial treadmills have the largest motors, which are capable of turning the belt much faster than lesser models. The faster the belt can turn, the quicker you can run. If you are serious runner then you will certainly want a treadmill that can keep up with you, so always look for the maximum speed of the machine. Even for a beginner you should aim for a minimum speed of around 8 miles per hour.

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