To help you on your way, here are some tips by the folks at ConsumersAdvocate.org, who recently published a review of 2019’s Best Treadmills. Let’s get going:
1) Before doing anything, answer the question: “What type of runner am I?”
This is essential, as the type of treadmill that’s right for you will depend almost entirely on what you’re going to be using it for. In short, there are three types of runners: casual home users, fitness buffs, and dedicated runners. The most complex (and priciest) treadmills in the market are designed with dedicated runners in mind, as they replicate the conditions of outdoor running, while the simplest treadmills are usually catered to casual, at-home users.
2) Then, ask yourself: “Am I REALLY going to use it?”
As you probably know, most people who purchase a treadmill do it with the best of intentions (which means they wholeheartedly want to use it every day). A week later, however, the treadmill’s only purpose is to serve as a place to dry your clothes. If you think this could be your case, maybe the right treadmill for you is NO treadmill at all. If, however, you are definitely committed on using your treadmill regularly, keep on reading this article.
3) Find out what treadmill features you need
Since there are as many types of treadmills as there are types of runners, one great way to narrowing down your options is to look at the features included in your treadmill. For example, if you’re a casual runner that’s just looking to improve your health, you’ll find no use for splashy features which raise the machine’s cost considerably. On the other hand, if you are a dedicated runner, the more features the better.
Some useful treadmill features to look out for include heart rate monitor, sophisticated shock absorption, foldability, adjustable incline levels, multimedia consoles, speed-and-distance tracker, calorie counter, and built-in training programs.
Keep in mind that, as we mentioned before, the right treadmill is the one that includes all the features that you will definitely be using regularly: no more and no less.
4) Better have warranty
Good treadmills can be pretty pricey and complex, which is why it is highly recommended that you get one with some sort of warranty. Most treadmill companies offer warranties for frames, motor, tread belt, parts, and labor, which can be of great help in case your treadmill breaks down when you most need it. The golden rule? The pricier the treadmill, the broader the warranty should be.