The basic treadmill buying guide

To improve your health, lose a few pounds and become more active, it's time to exercise. Where do you begin? Many people find it difficult to go to the gym three to four times a week. With hectic schedules, heavy workloads and other commitments, exercise routines begin to suffer. For most Americans, the solution is to have his or her own treadmill and many treadmill buying guides will help you.

But why buy a treadmill? The answer is simple, according to many treadmill buying guide. Treadmills work and they are easy to use because they use a natural motion. Unlike other fitness equipment, which requires getting used to its operation, the treadmill just goes once you start it. Any treadmill buying guide will say, "It's a no brainer!"

Various websites offer a treadmill buying guide for consumers interested in buying a machine. Sites such as Runner's World, Consumer Review, and About.com offer a guide to buying. TreadmillDoctor.com gives out its best buys rating each year, making it highly valued as a treadmill buying guide.

So what do you look for in a treadmill? Most treadmill buying guide recommendations start your search by answering some important questions. Will you be using your treadmill for walking or running? Who will use the treadmill? How often do you plan to use it? Do you want a basic treadmill, or a fancy one with various features on it? Do you have enough space for it in your home? How much do you plan to spend? A treadmill buying guide will help you with your choice.

Depending on your answers, the selection will be narrowed down to what machine is the most suited for you. The basic things to look for in a treadmill include:

THE MOTOR - According to any treadmill buying guide, the deciding factor in the life of a treadmill is the motor. If you want your treadmill to last, look for the larger, heavier motor.

HORSEPOWER - At least a 2.0 continuous-duty rating for efficient treadmills is recommended.

WALKING DECK - The thickness of the walking deck and the size of the walking track should be on your decision list. The thickness of the deck affects the comfort of the legs and feet with prolonged use. Most treadmill buying guides will suggest a deck thickness of at least one inch for walking and running. The walk track needs to be at least 48 inches and have a width of 17 inches in order to be able to walk comfortably without stepping off the track.

"BUZZ" FEATURE - The "buzz" feature of a treadmill is its shock absorption. To provide cushioning for the legs, feet and back, the treadmill's suspension should be directly underneath the walking deck.

"PERKS" - This includes the treadmill's electronic board. Here is where you can economize. Affordable treadmills have the basics: speed, distance, incline, time and calories. The more expensive ones have a range of special preset exercise programs that automatically alter speed and incline.

SERVICE AND WARRANTIES - Check out the service and warranty policies. The minimum warranty on a good treadmill is 90 days of service and parts. The better treadmills will carry a three-year warranty on the motor. Make sure you fill submit your warranty slip so you will be covered by the store and manufacturer should your machine break down.

Just follow this treadmill buying guide and you're sure to find a treadmill suited for you.

Good fitness equipment is only half as effective if the buyer doesn't regularly follow his routine. So step on your treadmill and run your way to a healthier, more energetic you!

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