Treadmill Reviews Get the best value for your money.

What is the Best Treadmill Value?

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:

1. Will you use the treadmill for walking, jogging or running.
2. How heavy or tall is the user.
3. How many will use the treadmill.
4. Do you want an extensive selection of exercise programs.
5. Do you want wireless heart rate control.

I want to focus on the first two items. 

Whether you are going to use the treadmill for walking, jogging or running will determine the quality of the machine.  In general, a treadmill used for walking does not need to be as heavy-duty.   There is less impact and rotations of the belt.  In addition, the motor will not need to constantly run at higher speeds, therefore it requires less horsepower. 

Regarding the weight and height of the user.  Heavy individuals will put more strain on a treadmill.  That means they need to consider a model with a thicker deck and stronger motor.  Taller users will need a treadmill with a longer deck, particularly if they are runners.  Someone 6'2" or taller that is a runner should be considering a machine with a 60" belt. 

Overall, you want to consider your needs and requirements before you make a purchase.  Too often people buy treadmills that are not up to the performance level they require.  Consequently the machine strains and eventually breaksdown. 

Buy right and buy smart.

Fred