How to choose the right treadmill for your home

Running efficiency has been proven repeatedly. Regular workouts develop endurance, normalize the activity of the heart muscle, and help get rid of extra pounds. The positive aspects can be talked about endlessly, so many people want to buy a treadmill for the home. It is important to take into account all the nuances regarding pricing, available functions, weight category, size, etc. We will analyze the main aspects in order, so as not to make a mistake with the choice.

The benefits of running

• endurance develops;
• mood and “fighting spirit” are rising;
• general health improves;
• normal lung and heart function;
• blood pressure stabilizes;
• body weight decreases.

Positive features of a treadmill

1. If you consider a treadmill with a pricing policy above average, you can choose a good device with a slope adjuster for running. This option is an imitation of cross-country running. First you move downhill, then climb uphill.
2. Even the most economical models can be parsed and can be easily folded. For this reason, the track can be purchased by people renting a living space. You can easily transport the simulator if necessary.
3. The unit is designed for long-term operation. Each track has a kilometer limit, which is often difficult to exceed even with years of use. If you add proper care to this aspect, the device will last a long time.
4. A treadmill helps a person keep his body in good shape, spending a minimum of effort and time. You do not need to follow a strict training program, because everything is quite easy.
5. Having a treadmill at home, you save money by not going to the gym. It is enough to purchase a pair of dumbbells or a rope in addition to the simulator to keep fit.
6. Modern running simulators have many electronic options. You can easily track blood pressure, heart rate, distance traveled, energy expended, etc.
7. Many tracks include a pre-made training program, which is an undeniable plus. It is enough to choose one of the proposed functions, the device itself will add / reduce speed, take breaks.
8. It’s hard not to highlight the availability of classes. Having a simulator for running, you can do it at any time of the day. Such a move allows you to adjust the mode of the day without calculating the time to travel to the gym and vice versa.

Treadmill mechanical (magnetic)

The simulator tape is set in motion by human efforts. When you start running or walking fast, the track flows from a standing position to floating. When you stop the canvas also stops spinning.

Benefits

1. A mechanical running track does not consume electricity, so you won’t puzzle over the light bills. In this case, you are an electricity generator.
2. The main advantage of the lack of a motor in the simulator is a wide range of installation sites. If you live in a private house, you can take out the canvas in the yard or on the terrace. You do not need to think about how to stretch the wires to connect the track.
3. Mechanical simulators are distinguished by a low weight category, they are also easy to fold and unfold. In the event of a move, moving the simulator is not difficult.
4. One of the important aspects is the price range.Unlike electrical counterparts, magnetic simulators are 1.5-3 times cheaper. In this case, you choose the speed based on the capabilities of the body.

disadvantages

1. It is forbidden to practice on magnetic paths for people with leg diseases. Otherwise, due to strong resistance, varicose veins and other diseases of this kind may develop.
2. Due to the low pricing policy, the simulator does not differ in “bells and whistles”, everything in it is rather modest. The display shows only the current speed, energy spent, duration of the lesson, the number of kilometers traveled.

Important!
The magnetic treadmill belongs to mechanical simulators. The main difference is the smoothness of the moving web. In the process of training, the simulator starts moving very smoothly, there are no jerks and jerks.

Electric treadmill

As the name implies, the canvas is driven by a built-in motor. He adjusts the slope, simulating a run uphill. In this case, the angle of inclination varies from 10 to 23 degrees.

Benefits

1. The speed is set with the “+/-” buttons, which greatly simplifies the work with the simulator. Depending on individual characteristics, each person will be able to adjust the rhythm for themselves. Some people will use the steps, others prefer an integrated (alternating) run, while others do not like to stop during classes.
2. Modern electric tracks include many training programs. You do not have to run at the same speed and look at a point. By setting the appropriate function, the simulator diversifies classes and introduces complex elements (for advanced athletes).
3. Smoothness is provided by speed controllers. The main advantage is the ability to control the pulse, blood pressure, the amount of energy expended and other indicators.
4. The simulator sheet may have a shock absorption coating. It allows not only to walk, but also to run along the path. Also a nice feature is the choice of track based on the weight of the future owner.

disadvantages

1. The price range of electric simulators is quite wide. However, even the cheapest model will cost more than mechanical counterparts.
2. The track must be installed next to the outlet, since it is powered by the mains. This can also include an increase in utility bills, since the unit is energy-consuming.

Treadmill Selection: Options

As mentioned earlier, a large selection of simulators mislead users. In order not to get confused at the store, study the parameters that you need to ask a consultant about.

Canvas

1. The dimensions of the work surface directly depend on your height and weight category. The larger the listed indicators, the wider the running belt should be. It is important to consider that you should not take a track with a "margin". You will only spend money without acquiring important additional functions in return.
2. The wider the canvas, the larger the simulator looks (difficulties may arise with its transportation). If we talk about standard sizes, the length of the running belt usually varies between 110-150 cm. The width is about 40-60 cm.
3. When choosing, pay attention to the platform to which the track is attached. Its height should not be less than 2 cm, a figure above the specified value will prevent cracking.
4. Some tracks have double-sided canvas. It is very convenient to use, since when you erase the first section, you can turn the track over and run along it, as if in a brand new one. Also, manufacturers produce a two-layer tape, it has high cushioning and durability.

Engine

1. Motor power can be constant or peak. The second option disappears immediately, since the engine regulates only the power that occurs at the peak of training.
2. If we talk about constant power, it is reflected in the speed and controls it. For home training you just need to buy a simulator with a capacity of 1-4 horsepower (hp). The higher the indicator, the longer the simulator will last.

Cushioning coating

1. When running on a hard surface, the load on the joints increases significantly. Most involved are the ankles and knees. In order not to harm yourself, you need to choose a canvas with complex or medium depreciation.
2. However, the cost of electric simulators of this kind is high. People with a current weight of more than 80 kg. depreciation is indispensable if you plan to run rather than walk.

Maximum load

1. The treadmill must be chosen taking into account the weight of the future owner or all the people who plan to train on the simulator. Pay attention to the frame, it must be durable.
2. If possible, choose a double-sided (preferably two-layer) canvas with a maximum weight reserve. Of course, you need to be reasonable. If your weight is 80 kg., You will not need a simulator with a load of 170 kg. and more.

Heart rate meter

1. Handrails of electric simulators are equipped with a heart rate sensor. If your hands sweat a lot, the indicators will begin to distort. Therefore, it is worth taking a closer look at another measurement option. In addition, not all people hold onto the handrails during classes.
2. Some simulators have a special bracelet that is attached to the wrist. As a rule, it is made of fabric on the inside. The material absorbs moisture and allows you to measure your heart rate more accurately.
3. If you wish, you can purchase a heart rate monitor separately, without overpaying additional money for the built-in function. This option is even more convenient since measurements can be taken anywhere.

Price Range of Electric Treadmills

The cost of an electric simulator exceeds the price of a mechanical simulator. If you do not have extra money, get the second option. In the case of an electric appliance, study the indicators depending on the classification.

Option "Economy"
This type of track is designed for home use. The width of the canvas varies between 36–42 cm, the speed is 2-14 km / h. Pricing starts at 20,000 rubles, engine power is 1 kW.

Option "Economy Plus"
The price range is higher than the previous one, but the simulator is already equipped with an on-board computer. It includes ready-made programs and allows you to create your own training modes. The angle of inclination is calculated automatically or adjusted by the button. The price varies from 30,000 to 60,000 rubles. The width of the track is on average 45 cm, the motor power is 1.5 kW. Running speed - from 1.5 to 16 km / h.

Option "Economy Amateur"
The simulator is designed for use in a small gym, it is also suitable for home. The speed of the web is slightly higher, it is 1-18 km / h. If we talk about sizes, the maximum width is 45 cm, the minimum is 40 cm. The engine is more powerful, about 1.4-2 kW. The price policy is high, the simulator costs 80,000-120,000 rubles.

Treadmill Buying Guidelines

1. Familiarize yourself with the control system (levers, buttons, etc.). At first glance, the interface should not mislead you. It is important to choose a simulator that you can handle. Otherwise, overpayment for functions that will not be used in the future is possible.
2. Before buying a treadmill, evaluate the area of ​​your home. Select the location of the proposed track installation, take measurements. If there is a problem with the amount of free space, get a compact simulator with the possibility of folding. In days free from training, you can clean the unit behind a cupboard or under the bed.
3. Before buying, test not one, but several options for treadmills.Evaluate the operation of the motor; no extraneous sounds or excessive noise should be emitted from the engine. Inspect the canvas for cracks and defects, check for smooth running.
4. Ask the consultant to provide a passport for the selected simulator. Study all the necessary information regarding the maximum load, the amount of horsepower. The information obtained will help to better navigate if the weight of the owner is more than 80 kg.
5. Evaluate the number of built-in training programs and the main differences between the selected types of tracks. Some simulators have directional functions taking into account the age and weight of a person (fat-burning, strengthening muscles, developing endurance, etc.).
6. Ask your consultant for warranty service conditions. You are directly interested in the period itself (at least 12 months), the duration of the repair in the event of a breakdown, as well as the nuances of return and exchange. Leading manufacturing companies provide service throughout the operation.
7. Pick out a few options on the Internet before heading to the store. Sit on the forums, read reviews. Do not blindly trust sales consultants, as their main task is considered to be “pairing” the goods in exchange for a percentage of the purchase.
8. Make a list of requests in advance. Indicate in a notebook what exactly you expect from the track. Mark the maximum price, the possibility of folding, the available functions, the presence or absence of a tilt, heart rate monitor, shock absorption coating and other nuances. Only after compiling a list of requirements go shopping.
9. As mentioned earlier, the size of the treadmill belt is selected taking into account the weight and height of the person involved. If you plan to buy a simulator for the whole family, focus on households whose rates are the highest.
10. To feel the difference in the testing process, first conduct training on the most expensive unit, then go down below. Give the test at least 10 minutes, because in 30 seconds you will not feel the difference. If possible, stretch the selection for 2-3 days to analyze each type of track.

The choice of a treadmill includes a number of features that must be followed without fail. Find the right options on the Internet, read reviews. Focus on the amount of free money, height and weight of all involved. Ask the seller about warranty service, built-in programs, web tilt, engine power, and top speed. Heart rate sensor, distance traveled and calories burned are available in almost every simulator.

Video: How to choose a treadmill