How to Choose the Best Treadmill?

Buying a treadmill is a straightforward process, at least that’s what I imagined before buying one for myself but that’s not true. One can quickly realize that there are a lot of things to consider like weight capacity, motor power, cushioning, and even space considerations. Now, I want to guide you on how to choose the best treadmill so you don’t have to learn the hard way like I did.

Budget: Setting Your Price Range

Before anything else, decide how much you want to or you have to spend. When I started my search, I was overwhelmed by the price range. You can buy treadmills for as low as Rs. 20,000 rupees and as high as Rs. 800,000. It took me no time to realize that a higher price often means better durability and more features.

For example, an entry-level basic treadmill often comes with fewer features but is decent for beginners or casual walkers. On the other hand, if a person wants more rigorous training, and advanced modes, and wants to train on different advanced programs, a high-end machine would be a better choice. Remember, this is an investment in your health. Think long-term.

I personally chose a mid-range model because I wanted a reliable treadmill with basic features. Looking back, it was worth every rupee.

Types of Treadmills

Many people don’t know that not all treadmills are equal. Understanding different types can save you from regrets later on. The first type is the manual treadmill which attracted me at first glance due to its lower price tag. But after trying one, it wasn’t worth it or wasn’t my type. A motorized treadmill is another type which seemed way more suitable compared to the manual one. It is powered by a motor and comes with adjustable speed options. Some better treadmills also have an incline option.

If space is a concern, there is another type named foldable treadmills, which can be a great option. For heavy users or those planning long runs, commercial treadmills, like the ones you see at gyms, are ideal, but they can be expensive and bulky which is why they are not for everyone to buy for home.

Matching Your Activity Level

Imagination time! Now, think about how you are going to use your treadmill. If you’re going to use it for a casual walk, don’t go for a powerful motor. But if you enjoy intense runs, you’ll want a treadmill with at least a 3.0 CHP motor. I also made sure the belt length was 60 inches to accommodate my stride comfortably. Trust me, nothing’s worse than feeling cramped while running. Here are some guiding points to select the power of a treadmill:

Walking: Choose 2.0 CHP or higher

Jogging: Choose 2.5 CHP or higher

Running: Choose 3.0 CHP or higher

Fast, Frequent Running: Choose a 4.0 CHP or higher

Commercial Gym or Health Club: Choose a 5.0 CHP

Weight Capacity and Durability

Here’s a lesson many people learn the hard way: always check the treadmill’s weight capacity before buying it. I had a friend whose treadmill broke down because it wasn’t designed for heavier users. My advice is to buy a treadmill that has a weight-bearing capacity of at least 20-30 kg more than your body weight to ensure durability.

Another factor to consider is the belt and rollers. Larger rollers typically mean less wear and tear on the motor and belt. You will typically find smaller rollers on cheaper treadmills and larger rollers on the costly ones.

1.6-inch roller: runs risk of running hot, hence hesitations

2.5-inch and above roller: indicates good durability

Space Considerations

One thing that many people overlook when buying a treadmill is space consideration. Before buying my treadmill, it is very important to measure the space where you plan to keep it. This step saved me a lot of trouble. Most home treadmills are about 7 feet long and 3 feet wide. I also ensured I had about 3 feet of clearance behind it, just in case I needed to step off quickly. If you’re tight on space, go for a foldable treadmill so you can move it out of the way when you are done.

Cushioning: Save Your Joints

If you are someone who has struggled with knee pain, cushioning is a non-negotiable point. A good treadmill absorbs impact and reduces stress on your joints compared to running on asphalt. My treadmill has adjustable cushioning, so I can make it firmer when I want to mimic outdoor running. Don’t skip this feature if you have a problem with your joints.

Incline and Decline: A Game-Changer

One feature I’ve grown to love is the incline option. Did you know that Increasing the incline burns more calories and works different muscles? A 15% incline is more than enough for many but you may get a treadmill with customizable incline options as well. Some models even offer a decline feature, simulating downhill running. This is great for preparing for real-world runs.

Technology: Keep It Simple or Go High-Tech?

Like me, many want a basic treadmill without any bells and whistles initially. But after seeing models having app compatibility, it is hard to resist. Using an app not only tracks runs but can also provide guided workouts. But if you still don’t like the technology even after exploring it, you may buy a simple treadmill that shows stats like time, distance, and calories burned.

High-tech treadmills with touchscreens and immersive workouts are exciting but pricey. So, it is up to you to decide if you’ll actually need those features before paying for them.

Extra Features That Matter

While researching, I came across treadmills that had many extra features like fans, water bottle holders, and even built-in speakers. At first, I thought these were unnecessary but later on, I realized that small features like these can make a big difference in your overall experience.

Test Before You Buy

If possible, you should try out a few treadmills before you choose to buy one. I tested many treadmills before I finally found the perfect match for me. If you can’t try, read detailed reviews and watch videos of the specific model to get a better sense of the treadmill’s performance before you buy it.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right treadmill doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your needs and priorities, whether it’s budget, space, or features, you can find a treadmill that fits perfectly into your lifestyle. Remember, this is an investment in your health. Take your time, do your research, and you’ll thank yourself later. For me, buying a treadmill was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It’s more than just a machine, it’s a step toward a healthier life.