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What Constitutes a Walking, Jogging or Running Treadmill?


Below is a question for a reader, and my response on what I consider a Walking, Jogging or Running Treadmill.  It is important that you define your fitness goals and buy the proper treadmill.  Too often people buy budget treadmills that are not adequate for their goals. 


Hi.  I am in the market for a treadmill - and your reviews have been a great assistance in my selection process.  Thanks for the great site!!!One question I have - many of the reviews are rated for walkers, joggers, and/or runners.  How would you classify the difference between these three types of users?  For example, walking 3 mi/hr or less, jogging 6 mi/hr or less, runners more than 6 mi/hr?

Thanks.

-Stratis


Hi Stratis,Thanks for the compliment, let me see if I can answer your question.There are three factors to take into consideration when buying a treadmill.

  1. How many hours will you use the treadmill a week, which also factors in how many users? Of course, the more you use a treadmill the more wear and tear on all the parts.
  2. How much does the user weigh?  If the user(s) are exceptionally over weight, once again that is a strain on the components.  For heavy individuals you will also want a relatively thick deck.
  3. Will you use it for walking, jogging or running? Jogging and running means the treadmill will be running at higher speeds, and there will be much more impact to the deck.

Here is how I would classify treadmills.  I tend towards the conservative side. 

Walking Treadmill - Usage about 3-5 hours per week.  Models under $1,000.

Jogging Treadmill - Usage 5-7 hours per week.  Models in the $1,000 - $1,500 range.

Running Treadmill - Usage 7+ house per week.  Models going for over $1,500.

I hope that helps, and please send a review once you have made your decision.

Fred

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One Comment

  1. Joe wrote:

    I have had my Nordictrack Treadmill C255 for approx. 1 year and it has approx. 800 Miles of use. It has been hard to use the machine lately due to the belt shifting back and forward. It least that’s how it feels. I attempted to tighten the screws in the rear and still no good. Joe

    Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 12:16 pm | Permalink

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