Wednesday, December 19, 2007
One of the most common complaints people have when they buy a treadmill online is with the delivery. All treadmill dealers that sell online, contract the delivery and fulfillment to third party companies. Here is what you need to we aware of: (Continued)
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Recently a viewer to my site sent a question regarding buying a treadmill for around $1,000. This is the question and my response… (Continued)
Friday, November 16, 2007
It’s that time of year again when people are considering the perfect gift for Christmas. Having been the fitness equipment industry for a number of years, I am surprised how many people buy treadmills as a Christmas present. They may spend up to a few thousand dollars.
What makes giving a treadmill for the holidays is you are giving the gift of health. Some of the benefits are a slimmer and sexier significant other. Oh yeah, if you ask nicely, you may get to use the treadmill yourself. (Continued)
I was recently interviewed by Money Magazine. One of the questions was, in my opinion what did I consider the best treadmill value. My answer was, “It depends.”
It depends on a number of factors, which together will define the right treadmill for achieving your fitness goals. Here are the considerations:
- Will you use the treadmill for walking, jogging or running.
- How heavy or tall is the user.
- How many will use the treadmill.
- Do you want an extensive selection of exercise programs.
- Do you want wireless heart rate control. (Continued)
I recently had the opportunity to go out to Logan, Utah and visit the Icon Fitness plant, where they build NordicTrack treadmills. Prior to my trip I had a rather negative view of Icon because of their budget models built under the Weslo, Image and ProForm name. I was surprised to find out that under the NordicTrack name they were building some impressive machines. (Continued)
Monday, September 17, 2007
Of course, I have to start out by saying the best treadmill reviews online are from my site. With each review I try to explain the nature of the product and how it will fit your fitness goals. I discuss quality, the company reputation, warranties and more. In addition, when available I include customer testimonials. You can check them out at www.treadmill-ratings-reviews.com. (Continued)
Friday, September 7, 2007
The market is flooded with cheap treadmills. There in all the mass merchant store like WalMart, Target and K-Mart. They appeal to a growing population of overweight people looking to burn calories and get back in shape. Unfortunately, most do not realize the limiations of these inexpensive machines. (Continued)
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
When looking for the “Best Buy” for a treadmill, you want to consider a number of factors. They include:
- The Quality of the Treadmill
- How it Accommodates Your Fitness Goals
- The Warranty Coverage
- The Customer Service Reputation of the Company
(Continued)
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
A treadmill can be an expensive and sometimes risky investment. It can be risky when you are not certain it won’t end up as an expensive clothes hanger. That is why buying a used treadmill and saving some money may be appealing. However, it could cost you more down the road.
(Continued)
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Most budget treadmills (sub $1,000 price) are not equipped to handle the rigors of running or jogging. Both activities are abusive to treadmills. When you run, the impact is equivalent to approximately 2.5x your body weight. Consider the constant pounding that a treadmill must absorb?
In addition, the treadmill is running at a considerable faster speed in comparison to walking. These are considerations when buying a treadmill for running or jogging.
- The motor - I would recommend you get a model with at least 2.5 continuous duty horsepower. That is the HP where the treadmill runs comfortably, not the peak HP. For runners, you are better off with a 3.0 HP motor. The goal is to have a motor that does not strain when running at higher speeds.
- The deck - Get a treadmill with a 1″ deck, especially if you are a bit over weight. You want a deck that can handle the constant impact.
- The treadbelt- You want a machine with a quality treadbelt that will not stretch excessively from high speeds.
- Deck length - When you run or jog you need a longer deck. For people of average height a 54″ or 55″ deck is adequate. If you are tall, and/or a sprinter consider a 60″ deck.
- Large rollers - A model with 2.5″ or larger rollers is suggested. Larger rollers are better for extending the life of many of the components.
I would recommend you spend a minimum of $1,000 if you plan on moderate jogging. If you are a runner you want to price models in the $1,500 - $2,000 price range. It is better to get a treadmill specifically designed for jogging or running. You less likely to “run” down your treadmill.
Recommended treadmills for jogging - Sole F80, Smooth 6.25, New Balance 1400
Recommended treadmills for running - Sole F85, Smooth 9.25HR, PaceMaster Silver