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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Strength Master is a fantastic treadmill brand that has rapidly emerged and established itself as a manufacturer of top quality fitness equipment in every corner of the world. The quality fitness equipment includes treadmills produced by Strength Master which are extremely innovative, packed with very useful features, and available at affordable prices to meet the demands of a growing market.

Located in the Asia, specifically Taiwan, Strength Master was founded in 1994, specialising in the design, development and production of consumer fitness and exercise equipment. Since then the manufacturer has gone from strength to strength and has proven their expertise and potential in what is a competitive market. In recognition of their effort, StengthMaster has earned global awards, certificates and commendations. This has paved the way for Strength Master to compete well in the worldwide market.

With their treadmill range Strength Master have shown great product innovation. They produce treadmills with great specifications while being able to keep the costs low. Two prime examples of quality treadmills in their range which meet the demands of consumers are the MI-411 and MI-611. These treadmills are essentially the same, with the MI-611 a more powerful version.

The Strength Master MI-611 is the biggest and most powerful in the range. It has done an excellent job as it meets the needs of the entry-level fitness enthusiast as well as the trained athlete. This is a well-built, sturdy and reliable treadmill that is semi-commercial. Strength Master has really paid attention to detail in every aspect. There is a big running track and fantastic features that are sure to motivate anyone, including a built-in screen, which can play TV, DVD and MP3!

The Strength Master MI-411 and MI-611 both have great specifications. This includes controls to adjust both the speed and incline, including feedback such as distance, speed and calories. With 16 programmes including user-defined programmes and a body fat calculator, these treadmills aim to provide consumers with powerful features to help them achieve their goals.

Specifically in the aforementioned treadmills, there is also a 7-inch TFT-LCD TV screen that is sure to keep any user entertained and motivated during workouts. This screen can be connected to an MP3 player and includes a TV aerial socket. Composite video inputs mean a DVD can be easily connected. You can also adjust how the screen shows, such as the colour and brightness. Strength Master treadmills are easy to use, so you can play around the screen while adjusting your workout. There is no excuse for getting bored while running on the treadmill, Strength Master have made sure their treadmills are fit for this century.

Another fantastic feature that these treadmills have is that they have a hydraulic folding system and wheels so are easy to fold and can be moved around with ease. This is great for most consumers as they are manoeuvrable, and practical for home use where space can be limited.

There are good reasons why Strength Master treadmills are sold over the world, they are very consumer orientated, packed with features and are priced extremely well especially in comparison to other treadmills with similar features. Strength Master is a reliable and trustable brand in the world of treadmills, as they continue to grow. For anyone wanting good quality treadmills at a reasonable price, Strength Master really are recommended.

Dave Ashton is a fitness enthusiast and personal trainer. You can find out more about Strength Master treadmills by going to Motorised Treadmill UK. You will also find a guide on buying motorised treadmills.

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