A Guide to Purchasing a Treadmill

The treadmill has been the number one fitness machine for many years. It has a proven track record in getting people in shape and for losing weight!

If you happen to be in the market for a treadmill, there are a few things to look for to ensure that the treadmill you buy is the right one for you.

The Treadmill Motor

Not all treadmills are created equally! So, you need to find a treadmill that has an adequate motor for handling your weight and exercise needs. Obviously, the more expensive the treadmill, the better quality the motor should be!

Inexpensive treadmills are sufficient for average-size people who want to use it for walking…But, the motor on an inexpensive model is not going to be able to take as much wear and tear as a higher-end treadmill motor. Cheap motors also tend to be noisier.

Continuous-duty motors with at least 2.5 hp are recommended for heavy usage over an extended period of time. (Continuous duty horsepower measures the sustained power during regular use of the treadmill.)

The Deck

The running surface on most treadmills is 20 inches wide. That´s pretty much standard, except on really cheap treadmills. The length, however, can vary anywhere from 48" to 62". You should choose the length that is right for you based on the height of the tallest user and based on whether you´ll be using the treadmill for running or walking.(Tall users and runners should go for a deck that is at least 58" long.)

Be sure that you are choosing your treadmill based on the actual length of the running surface! Different manufacturers determine length in different terms. If the length is said to be the length of the running surface, that generally refers to the length of the exposed treadbelt.

How Much Should You Pay?

Some inexpensive treadmills look really nice, and the fact that they cost less may be attractive to many buyers. Just keep in mind, though, that you get what you pay for, in most cases…So, if you aren´t spending much money on a treadmill, don´t expect it to be high quality.

Nonetheless, if you don´t plan to use the treadmill very often, and you don´t plan to put it through rigorous workouts, an inexpensive treadmill could be perfect for you!

If, however, you want to use your treadmill regularly and vigorously, just keep in mind that a cheap treadmill might save you money initially, but it might not stand up to your needs and end up costing more money in the long run for repairs and such. In fact, you may end up having to replace the treadmill entirely!

Generally, if you´re buying a treadmill for walking only, it´s worth it to spend at least $1,000, if you can afford it. For joggers/runners, you should spend a minimum of $1,300 for a decent treadmill.

To comparison shop and read reviews, visit Epinions.com, TreadmillDoctor.com, ConsumerReports.org and, of course, my site: Treadmill-Ratings-Reviews.com.

What Kind of Warranty Does it Have?

Cheap treadmills generally don´t have much of a warranty. Try to stay away from those that come with only a 90-day parts and labor warranty! If you DO end up buying one with such a warranty, opt to get the extended warranty coverage! It´ll be worth it in the long run!

If you look around, you will find an affordable treadmill that comes with at least a 2-5 year parts warranty and a one-year labor. Shoot for a treadmill with that kind of coverage!

Does the Company Have a Reputable Service Report?

If anything goes wrong with your treadmill, how easy will it be to get it repaired? Does the company from which you bought the treadmill back its products?

Before purchasing a treadmill, research the company you plan to buy from. Make sure that it is a reputable company that will treat you right, should a service need arise with your treadmill.

Fred Waters is a former V.P. of marketing for a fitness equipment firm. Check out his Treadmill Buyer's Guide for expert advice on the type of treadmill that is perfect for reaching your fitness goals.