xWith the popularity of consumer fitness equipment on the rise, treadmills remain among the most popular product purchased. After all walking comes naturally to all of us, and so it just happens to be the preferred method of exercising for many of us too. However buying a treadmill can be more than a little complicated (in many cases a downright nightmare). With chunks of information and a great deal of jargon to absorb, it can be difficult to make an informed choice. Following the guidelines in this article will help you cut through the clutter, so you can make the right choice based on what you need.

There are many factors you should consider before purchasing a treadmill that determine your requirements, the following are among the most important.

Motor - If you are looking for a motorised treadmill (these are the ones that run on a motor and are most popular) you will find that the motor will have a certain power. This will be shown in hp, which stands for horsepower. The more powerful the motor, the more efficiently the treadmill works. However be wary, and look for the horsepower in relation to 'continuous duty', as this refers to what power the motor will work at during extending periods. Do not fall for misleading terms such as 'peak motor rating' since they only refer to the maximum output and are not really relevant. For most users (weighing up to 18 stones) a 1.5 horsepower (continuous duty) motor should be the absolute minimum. Those weighing more or wanting better performance will need a stronger motor. In this case, the stronger the better, but avoid overspending purely for the sake of a powerful motor.

Incline Range - The incline range refers to the angle you can adjust your treadmill (uphill/downhill) in order to vary and intensify your workout. Firstly, it is important to know that there are three types of incline range (three ways of adjusting the incline) found on treadmills. There is the fixed incline range, which means there is no way to adjust the incline. Most users should avoid these treadmills. There is also the manual incline. In these treadmills the incline can be adjusted but not during the workout, and this is done so manually. The third and most popular incline is known as the power incline. Buttons controls the incline, and this is recommended as it allows you to adjust the incline during the workout (to vary and intensify your workout). A 0-10% power incline is recommended, however your decision should be based on whether you will be using such a feature in the first place (as a personal trainer it is recommended!).

Speed Range - The speed range refers to what speed you can run up to on the treadmill, which can be controlled on motorised treadmills. This maximum speed differs on most treadmills, and what is best for you depends on what your purpose for the treadmill is. If you intend to mainly walk a 6mph speed is all that is needed. For those wanting to jog or run, 6-12mph will be needed with 12mph perfect for the more serious runners. A 0-10mph speed range on a treadmill fits the needs of most users, and long-term use must always be considered before basing your decision on what you need it for today.

Features & Programmes - Treadmills have various features and programmes. The most basic is electronic feedback such as speed, distance and calories. However, treadmills have advanced to include training programmes that work on helping you achieve specific goals such as cardio or fat loss. Some programmes store your workouts. Others are also based on heart rate monitors, and ensure you work out in the correct zone. Your decision should be based on what you may benefit with but also your budget (the more you pay, generally the more you get). A heart rate monitor is always a useful bonus. Treadmills can also have additional features such as TV, DVD, MP3 players to keep you motivated.

These four factors must always be considered before plunging in and purchasing a treadmill. There are many other factors that are important too, such as exactly what your budget is and what the warranty given with the treadmill is. However if you follow the guidelines above you will know exactly what you are looking for when purchasing a treadmill, and are likely to make a better more informed choice.



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