Buying a Treadmill?

Walking For Health: Everything You Need
to Know About Treadmills

Starting a new exercise routine is going to be one of the best decisions you make for your health, but like every important life decision, it’s important to do your research. Studies have shown that walking is one of the easiest ways to increase your heart rate and reach the fat-burning stage of exercise. However, many people don’t have the ideal time or place to walk outside of their home, which is why treadmills have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Treadmills can be found at many local stores at various prices, and you can be assured that you don’t have to spend a fortune to obtain a quality machine. However, you do want to make sure your new treadmill will give you all the benefits you need, so carefully study a machine before purchasing it. There are a few key things you should be looking for when selecting a treadmill:

• Make sure the treadmill will be comfortable for you to use. The average person should use a treadmill with a belt at least 18 inches wide and at least 48 inches long. If you are taller than average, be sure to buy a treadmill with a larger belt to ensure you will be comfortable using it. Also, make sure the rails are sturdy and easy to reach from a comfortable position while you are using the treadmill.

• Try out the treadmill’s display panel. All of the controls should be easy to read and use while you are working out. Push-buttons are generally the easiest types of controls to use during your work out. Most people find it useful to have a treadmill with a built-in heart rate monitor. This will help you monitor your work out and help you adjust your level of exercise accordingly.

• Most treadmills now offer incline options, but the specific incline ability of each treadmill varies widely. Incline can help give your routine variety and will also improve your work out, so make sure the treadmill you choose has the incline abilities you desire.

• Be informed about your machine’s warranty. Read over the warranty carefully, since specific warranties cover different weights of the users, as well as different types of use. Your treadmill should be covered for manufacturer defects for the life of the machine. You should also make sure parts and repair are covered for at least one year.

• Most treadmills can be folded and stored easily. Make sure the model you choose will fit in the space you have reserved in your home. If you plan on moving your treadmill regularly, make sure it is easy for you to move.

Another reason treadmills are so popular is that they are perfect for every kind of workout. If you are a beginner, you can use a slow speed and low incline and then slowly raise your exercise level over time. If you are more advanced, a good treadmill can be used for jogging and running with an increased incline for a more advanced workout.

Once you have selected your treadmill, you are on your way to feeling healthier and more confident. A treadmill is a valuable part of a good exercise routine, and with your treadmill you will find that it’s easy and convenient to walk your way to a more successful and healthy lifestyle.

Article by Elizabeth Walling.