If there is a new hot trend in treadmills, it is models equipped with TVs. This concept makes sense. Walking or running in place can be very boring. As hard as you try, you never get anywhere, and the scenery never changes. That is why you find rows of televisions in front of the treadmills at health clubs.
Another benefit of watching TV when you workout is that it distracts you. If you are distracted you are less likely to notice the time go by. And the more time you spend on the treadmill the more calories you burn.
Icon Fitness, which manufactures NordicTrack, ProForm and Epic, has been equipping a number of their models with television. And guess what? They have been hot sellers. The are usually 7″-8″ flat screen TVs. I’ve seen models for as little as $1,200. That is quite a deal.
The televisions are built into the console, and are also the readout monitor for your exercise feedback. The one problem with this design is if the TV should ever go out it would be very expensive to replace. However, I have not heard of any problems with the console of the television. Regardless, most of these models come with a one year parts and labor warranty, and I would recommend you increase it by another year or two.
Smooth came out with a high-end treadmill with a Flat Screen TV. The television is approximately 15″ and is built on a platform and not in the console. This way if there is a problem, it does not affect the electronics of the console. However, they are selling it at $4,000.
Should you consider a TV when you buy a treadmill? If you like distractions and find it helps to increase your workout duration, then the answer is yes. With the Icon models, the TV does not add that much to the price. However, make sure when you buy a treadmill you focus on getting a model that will also accommodate your fitness goals.
To Your Health
Fred
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