How to Select the Best Home Treadmill

Buying a treadmill can be expensive. It's important to research your options or you could easily end up buying a treadmill with features you'll never use. Here are some important questions to ask yourself before purchasing a home treadmill.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. What features would you like your treadmill panel to display?
   
   Some of the features displayed on the console might include calories burned, distance traveled, speed, incline level, and time. Some models will also include a heart rate monitor, although this is more commonly seen on the higher end treadmills. Make sure the parameters you require are displayed on the console you purchase

2. What is your weight?
   
   Some treadmills aren't constructed to bear heavier weights with most of the lower end models having weight limits of 250 pounds. If you weigh more of this, be sure to look for a model that can accommodate your excess weight.

3. How much available space do you have for a home treadmill?
   
   If you have limited room, you'll want to look for one of the fold up home treadmill models that can be easily stored in a small space. There are a number of these models available so finding one to accommodate limited space shouldn't be a problem.

4. How easy is your home treadmill to set up?
   
   If you're not handy with tools, you should consider a model that comes preassembled or requires minimal set-up. Also take into account the maintenance requirements of any potential treadmill you are considering. Some of the best treadmills are almost maintenance free.

5. Do you want to design your own workout programs?
   
   Some of the best treadmill models will allow you to design your own custom programs to meet your fitness needs. Generally, you are given several different pre-set routines already programmed into the treadmill. If you need additional ones, you might want to consider a home treadmill that allows you to design your own user defined programs.

6. Will you be running or walking on your home treadmill?
   
   If you're a runner, your needs will be different than if you will use your treadmill exclusively for walking. If you plan on running, you'll need a treadmill with a deck at least 60 inches in length to accommodate your stride. Also look for a home treadmill that has a good layer of deck cushioning to absorb some of the shock from hitting the surface at a forceful pace. Sturdy construction of the frame will be important to avoid having the treadmill rock back and forth during the vigorous movements of running.

7. How much are you prepared to spend for your treadmill?
   
   A basic treadmill can be purchased for under $1000 with some decent ones even going as low as $300. These lower end models are fine for walking, but may not be sufficient if you plan on running. The more expensive, advanced models which run in the $1000 to $3500 range generally have longer decks to accommodate running as well as a more powerful motor for higher speed exercise. They also tend to have frames with sturdier construction.

Tips & Warnings

• It's also important to consider the length of the warranty given by the company you purchase your treadmill from. Generally, there are separate warranties for the motor, the frame, as well as for parts and labor. Look for a machine that has at least a several year warranty on the motor as well as at least a five year warranty on the frame. You should have at least a year warranty on parts and 4 months on labor.