How to Choose the Right Treadmill

Choosing the right treadmill can affect how much enjoyment you get out of your workouts and whether or not you'll develop injuries. Here is a list of things to consider when choosing a treadmill:

-Price
-Options
-Deck size
-Programs
-Warranty

You'll want to keep your budget in mind when researching treadmill options. You are making an investment not only with money, but also with your fitness. I once purchased a treadmill because it was about $200 cheaper than my first choice treadmill. I got it home and realized that there was some sort of alignment problem; every few steps that I jogged I felt as if I was going to fall. It was fine when I used it for walking at lower speeds, but every time I began to jog I experienced the sensation that I was going to fall. I bought the treadmill as is, so there was no recourse. A friend and I tried to fix the problem, but couldn't find a mechanical or physical defect. I ended up giving the treadmill to my mom, who only uses it for walking.

Make sure you have enough money to buy a decent treadmill or you will end up regretting your purchase. Don't let fancy options, colors, and other non-essentials drive up your costs though.

How do you decide if an option is essential or non-essential? Many treadmill manufacturers will provide information cards that describe the differences between each of their model upgrades. Many times the only difference is the number of training programs, the size of the belt, and the weight capacity.

If you don't need a treadmill that has a higher weight capacity (most can be used by people who weigh up to 275 lbs.), there is no point in paying an extra $100+ for a treadmill that has that option and offers no other essential options.

If you are going to use your treadmill for walking only or walking/light jogging you can get by with a smaller deck length. If you are going to be running or if you have a long stride (taller individuals), you will need to get a longer deck length.

Programs are nice to add variety to your workouts, but they aren't essential for most users. Almost all treadmills offer some pre-programmed options, such as a progressive incline/hill intervals, random, heart rate based intervals, etc.

Many newer treadmills offer neat features like fans, speakers, MP3 player docks/chargers, color choices, and memory for user histories. You will have to weigh how important these features are to you personally. None of these items are essential, but if they will make your workout more enjoyable and increase your odds of consistently using the treadmill they will be worth it.

If the store you purchase your treadmill from offers extended warranties make sure that it is worth the money. Many times the manufacturer's warranty offers plenty of coverage for the motor and essential parts. Make sure you understand what the regular warranty covers and what the extra/extended warranty will cover.