What Is a Manual Treadmill?
Exercising on a treadmill is one of the most popular ways to stay fit and lose weight. For those who would like a treadmill for their home use but do not have the space or money for an electric treadmill, a manual treadmill may be the best choice for a home gym workout.
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Unlike a regular treadmill you see at the gym, a manual treadmill has no plug-in and no electric motor. It does have handles and a rubberized walking surface that moves under your feet. The belt only moves when you walk on it, and your effort is what makes the machine run; stop, and the walking surface stops. Most manual treadmills will adjust to your speed, thanks to an interior flywheel that keeps the gears smooth, and allowing you to vary the intensity of your workout.
Size
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Electric treadmills often take up space and cannot be put away when you are done. These machines also require a larger, wider belt to accommodate the machinery and can occupy a major portion of a small room, especially a bedroom. Manual treadmills are smaller, take up less space and some models even fold in half when you are done and can be hidden under a bed or in a closet.
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Price
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Buying an electric treadmill, especially a professional, gym-quality commercial model, can take hundreds, even thousands of dollars. A manual treadmill costs much less and can range from $50 to a few hundred dollars.
Benefits
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For people new to treadmills, a manual model is easier to use, and there is no worry about the belt slamming you off if you miss a step or trip. Many also come with heart monitor equipment and the ability to keep count of the distance you have traveled and calories burned, just like the expensive electric models. These machines are often quiet, and you can still exercise even if the power goes out, making it an excellent option for vacation cabins off the grid.
Considerations
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The workout you receive from a manual treadmill may not be equal to an electric treadmill session; since it takes more effort to walk or jog, some people end up leaning on the handles and minimizing the aerobic effects. If you are used to the flawless, rolling motion of a treadmill at the gym, the stop-and-start motion on a manual treadmill may be difficult to get used to as well. However, a manual treadmill is a better choice than no treadmill at all and can be a valuable part of your overall exercise plan.
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