How to choose a treadmill for home

The effectiveness of running has been proven repeatedly. Regular workouts develop endurance, normalize the activity of the heart muscle, help to get rid of extra pounds. The positive aspects can be talked about endlessly, so many people want to buy a treadmill for the house. It is important to take into account all the nuances with regards to pricing, available functions, weight category, size, etc. Let us analyze the main aspects in order so as not to be mistaken with the choice.

Benefits of running

• endurance develops;
• mood and “morale” are raised;
• general health is improved;
• work of the lungs and heart is normalized;
• blood pressure stabilizes;
• reduced body weight.

Positive features of the treadmill

1. If we consider a treadmill with a pricing policy that is above average, you can choose a good device with a blade inclination adjuster for running. This option is an imitation of running over rough terrain. First you go downhill, then you go uphill.
2. Even the most economical models are subject to analysis and easy to fold. For this reason, the track can be purchased for people who rent a living space. You can easily transport the simulator if necessary.
3. The unit is designed for continuous operation. Each track has a kilometer-long limit, which is often difficult to exceed even with many years of use. If we add to this aspect proper care, the device will last a long time.
4. The treadmill helps a person to keep his body in good shape, spending a minimum of time and effort. 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 skipping rope in addition to the simulator to keep fit.
6. Modern trainers for running have many electronic options. You will easily monitor blood pressure, heart rate, distance traveled, energy expended, etc.
7. Many tracks include a ready-made program of classes, which is an undeniable advantage. It is enough to choose one of the proposed functions, the device itself will add / decrease speed, take breaks.
8. It is difficult not to highlight the availability of classes. Having a simulator for running, you can practice at any time of the day. This move allows you to adjust the mode of the day without calculating the time to go to the gym and back.

Treadmill mechanical (magnetic)

The tape of the simulator comes into motion due to the efforts of the person. When you start to run or quickly go, the path flows from a standing position to a floating one. When you stop the canvas also stops spinning.

Benefits

1. A mechanical runway does not consume electricity, so you won’t wrestle with light bills. In this case, you are a generator of electricity.
2. The main advantage of the lack of a motor in the simulator is a wide range of places for installation. If you live in a private house, you can make a canvas in the courtyard or on the terrace. You do not need to think about how to stretch the wires to connect the track.
3. Mechanical simulators have a low weight category, they are also easy to fold and unfold. In case of moving the simulator is not difficult.
4. One of the important aspects is considered the price range. Unlike electrical analogs, magnetic trainers cost 1.5–3 times less. In this case, you choose the speed based on the capabilities of the body.

disadvantages

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

Important!
Magnetic treadmill refers to the mechanical simulators.The main difference is the smoothness of the moving web. In the process of training the simulator comes into motion very smoothly, no jerks and jolts.

Electric treadmill

As the name implies, the canvas is driven by a built-in motor. He also adjusts the slope, imitating running uphill. 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 the individual characteristics, each person will be able to adjust the rhythm for themselves. Some people will be fit to step, others prefer an integral (alternating) run, and others do not like to stop at all during classes.
2. Modern electric tracks include many training programs. You do not have to run at the same speed and look to the point. Having set the appropriate function, the simulator will diversify the classes and introduce complex elements (for advanced athletes).
3. Smooth running 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 blade of the simulator may have a depreciation coating. It allows not only to walk, but also to run along the path. Also a nice feature is the choice of the 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 near the outlet, as it is powered by the mains. This may also include an increase in utility bills, as the unit is energy-consuming.

Treadmill selection: options

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

Canvas

1. The dimensions of the working surface directly depend on your height and weight category. The more listed indicators, the wider should be the canvas for running. It is important to consider that you should not take the track with a "margin".You only spend money without acquiring important additional functions in return.
2. The wider the canvas, the larger the simulator looks like (it may be difficult to transport it). If we talk about standard sizes, the length of the running belt usually varies within 110-150 cm. At the same time, 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 higher than this will prevent cracking.
4. Some tracks have double sided canvas. It is very convenient to use, because when erasing the first section, the track can be flipped over and run along it, like a new one. Also, manufacturers produce a double-layer tape, it has high shock absorption and durability.

Engine

1. Motor power may be constant or peak. The second option immediately disappears, because the engine regulates only the power that occurs at the peak of training.
2. If we talk about constant power, it is reflected in speed and controls it. For home workouts, you only need to purchase a 1–4 horsepower (HP) simulator.The higher the score, the longer the simulator will last.

Depreciation cover

1. While running on a hard coating, the load on the joints is greatly increased. Most involved ankles and knees. In order not to harm yourself, it is necessary to choose a canvas with a complex or moderate depreciation.
2. However, the cost of electric simulators of this kind is high. People with a current weight above 80 kg. without depreciation is not enough if you plan to just run, not walk.

Maximum load

1. The treadmill must be chosen taking into account the weight of the future owner or all people who are planning to practice on the simulator. Pay attention to the frame, it should be durable.
2. If possible, choose a double-sided (preferably double-layered) canvas with a maximum weight supply. 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.

Pulse meter

1. The handrails of the electric simulators are equipped with a pulse measurement sensor. If the hands sweat heavily, the indicators will begin to distort. Therefore, it is worth looking at another measurement option. In addition, not all people hold on to the railing 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 heart rate more accurately.
3. Optionally, you can purchase a heart rate monitor separately, without overpaying extra 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 one. If you do not have extra funds, purchase the second option. In the case of an electrical appliance, examine the indicators depending on the classification.

Option "Economy"
Tracks of this type are 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, the 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 regimes.The angle of inclination is calculated automatically or adjusted by the button. The price varies from 30.000 to 60.000 rubles. The average width of the walkway is 45 cm, the motor power is 1.5 kW. Running speed - from 1.5 to 16 km / h.

Option "Economy Amateur"
The device is designed for use in a small gym and is also suitable for home use. The speed of the canvas is slightly higher, it is 1-18 km / h. If we talk about size, 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.

Recommendations when buying a treadmill

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, there may be an overpayment for functions that will not be used in the future.
2. Before buying a simulator for running, estimate the area of ​​your home. Select the location of the proposed track installation, take measurements. If there are difficulties with the amount of free space, purchase a compact simulator with the ability to fold.On non-workout days, you can tidy up the unit behind a cupboard or under a bed.
3. Before you buy, test not one, but several variants of treadmills. Evaluate the work of the engine, from the engine should not be made extraneous sounds and excessive noise. Inspect the canvas for cracks and defects, check for smoothness.
4. Ask a consultant to provide a passport for the selected simulator. Examine all the necessary information regarding the maximum load, the amount of horsepower. The information obtained will help to better navigate if the host weight is more than 80 kg.
5. Estimate the number of built-in programs for training 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 term itself (at least 12 months), the duration of the repair in the event of a breakdown, as well as the nuances of the return and exchange. Leading manufacturers provide service throughout the operation.
7. Choose for yourself several options on the Internet before you go to the store. Sit on the forums, read reviews. Do not blindly believe sales consultants, since their main task is considered to be “vparivaniya” product in exchange for a percentage of the purchase.
8. Make a list of requests in advance. Indicate in your notebook what exactly you are expecting from the track. Mark the maximum price, the possibility of folding, the available functions, the presence or absence of tilt, heart rate monitor, shock absorption cover and other nuances. Only after making a list of requirements go shopping.
9. As it was said earlier, the size of the canvas of the treadmill is selected taking into account the weight and height of the person involved. If you plan to buy a simulator for the whole family, be guided by households whose indicators are the highest.
10. To feel the difference in the testing process, first conduct a training session on the most expensive unit, then go down below. Give the dough 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 adhered to without fail. Choose the appropriate options on the Internet, read reviews. Focus on the amount of free money, height and weight of all involved. Ask the seller about the warranty, firmware, the presence of the inclination of the blade, engine power, maximum speed. A pulse measurement sensor, distance traveled, and calories expended are found in almost every simulator.

Video: how to choose a treadmill