Fitness treadmills are still very much in demand these days, and that is due to one reason alone. These machines have proven time and time again to provide the best cardio workouts possible -- brisk walking and running included. And we all know that cardio workouts are excellent for burning off calories and building up physical endurance. However, not all machines of this type are the same. Aside from the differing price range, some treadmills come with different features, different sized belts, different range of motor horsepower, etc. etc. etc.
If indeed you are planning on buying this kind of exercise equipment, here are a few things you ought to know first.
1. Choose machines with good safety features. This is particularly important for people who are just starting with their exercise regimen (beginner’s level,) for people who have problems maintaining their balance, and of course for elderly people who might be a bit more delicate. Try to choose the fitness treadmills that either have handles to hold on to, or safety straps that can be secured around the wrist. Some treadmills have bar handles on the side which can prevent people from falling off sideways while providing horizontal support; and there are those that have grip handles near the console. Try to choose the one that feels most comfortable when you are exercising.
As for the safety straps, choose the ones that can be easily detached. The main function of these safety straps is to turn the machine off in case you fall off or slide away from the belt. This will help prevent further injury.
2. Choose machines with the right sized surface belt. The size of the belt of fitness treadmills differ in length and width. Try to choose the machine that can easily accommodate your natural stride when you walk or run. If the belt is too short, this will hamper your stride considerably; which in the long run, will only make exercising more difficult for you. You will have an unnatural gait, and will not burn off as much calories as you should.
If the belt is too narrow, there is all likelihood that your feet will continue hitting the sides of the treadmill, or worse, you might even fall off when you increase the speed of your workout.
3. Lastly, the size of the motor in your fitness treadmill is fairly important. Brisk walking or power walking exercises can be done comfortably, efficiently and safely on a machine that has a 1.5 horsepower motor. But if you are planning on training yourself for endurance, you might want to look at something at least at 2.5.
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