Purchasing a Treadmill

Buying a treadmill has as many factors to consider as buying a car; and just like a car, it can be one of the most costly purchases you’ll make. Skimp on the price and you’ll get an inferior machine made with inferior parts that falls to pieces after minimal use. Paying too much for something that you end up hanging your clothes on or that ends up sitting in a corner to collect dust is also a waste.

If you're going to spend a good chunk of change on something like a treadmill, it's best to be honest with yourself, first of all. What level of fitness are you looking for and how determined are you to stick with it? If you're only looking to get in shape by walking 2-3 times a week, you may not have to spend too much. Or, if you have a habit of starting something and not following through, it might be better to just get out and enjoy the fresh air and take your walks outside. It will also be much cheaper. Even joining a gym where you only pay month to month will be better in the long run.

Before you head out to the nearest retail or specialty shop to make your purchase, research the brand and type of treadmill you will require. Seasoned runners or joggers who use this type of equipment for training purposes will need a sturdier treadmill (more expensive) while those using their treadmill a few times a week for light walking will be able to get away with something less sturdy (less expensive). This is where researching your options becomes important. For example, going just by price alone can be tricky. Something with a lot of bells and whistles does not necessarily make a better machine. The quality of the $1500 treadmill can surpass that of a $4000 treadmill! The key here is quality of the parts that make up the machine.

In general, look to spend at least $1000 on a quality treadmill. If you decide to buy used or refurbished equipment — a good way to save money — be sure to ask about extended warranties — also a good way to save money should anything go wrong.

Once you find what you're looking for you can run right out — no pun intended — and try out the machine that's right for you. Then you can buy confidently, and without the salesman feeding you a bunch of gobbledygook about a more expensive machine that his commission depends on!

Article by Danielle Chapman.