Treadmills are a great way to get a great workout. However, finding a new treadmill can be both an exciting and frustrating experience. People would be puzzled easily as so many different brands and models of treadmills are available in the market. Every brand claims that they have the best treadmill for the workout, making the decision difficult for the potential buyer.
Before you decide, read our “treadmill buying guide” to learn everything you need to know about finding the best treadmill for your home.
Table of Contents
Treadmill Buying Guide
For your easy understanding treadmill buying guide is discussed in two parts.
The first part is designed based on a few warm-up questions about your financial plan (budget), workout space, treadmill size, the purpose of using it, and the features you want.
The second part is designed based on the main component of a treadmill so that you can understand the best treadmill with the appropriate motor power, track size, and other features to meet your specific workout requirements.
When you’ve finished reading the guide and have a better understanding of crucial treadmill terms and features, you’ll be able to look into which brands and models are best for you.
Part-1: Warm Up Question
Why do you warm up before going shopping on the treadmill? Two key reasons come to mind.
First and foremost, stop twisting your brain. You will be puzzled easily after seeing the availability of many brands, models, and styles of the treadmill in the market. Warming up will help you narrow down your choices and better understand what you want.
Second, price wars are involved in the treadmill business. If you don’t know the rules, you may feel cheated rather than satisfied with your choice. With these easy tips and tricks, you’ll be able to understand “How to buy a treadmill” wisely.
Select Your Workout Space And Treadmill Size
Where are you going to put the purchased treadmill with TV and internet? Is the room dimension sufficient to place it?
Measure the floor space or go through the architectural design of your room (hope room dimensions are mentioned there) where you want to put the treadmill. Measuring the room dimension before going shopping will save your time. If you’re considering a folding treadmill, make sure that storage space (L x W x H) is available to keep it after folding.
Treadmill measurements are commonly available online, and having this knowledge on hand; you can shop more efficiently. Remember that the necessary running area, which you can calculate using the treadmill belt size, can affect the treadmill’s overall footprint.
- For walkers, a minimum 50 inches long and 20 inches wide belt is recommended.
- For runners, a minimum 55 inches long and 22 inches wide is recommended. But, 20 inches wide belt is also adequate if the users can move carefully.
- If you are taller over 6 feet, my advice is to go for a belt at least 60-inches in length and 20 inches in width to get a comfortable running experience.
Purpose of Your Treadmill Workouts
What is the purpose of your treadmill workouts? Is it for relaxing walks, intense running, or something in between? This inquiry will assist you in narrowing down your treadmill option based on motor power.
The more strenuous the exercise you expect, the more powerful motor you will require. During the second half of this treadmill buying guide, we’ll go into further depth about motor power.
Your response to the initial question may also assist you in determining the appropriate track size for your workout demands. For example, walkers can save money by opting for shorter treadmill tracks, whereas runners (especially those exceptionally tall) will require more space to stretch out.
Set Your Budget (Financial Plan)
When purchasing any piece of home fitness equipment, particularly anything as significant and costly as a treadmill, your budget is likely to be the most crucial factor to consider. Therefore, it’s essential to invest in the best treadmill you can afford. A good treadmill will be comfortable, quiet, simple to operate, and durable.
- Under $500
You should proceed with caution even though if you get a significant discount while purchasing it. There is a chance of using cheap components in it; as a result, performance will be lower. In addition, the warranty period in this price range is few months only.
These treadmills are great for casual walking or jogging when the weather is terrible. But if you use them more frequently or intensely, there is a chance of damage within a year. Wobbly frames, noisy belts, tiny workout areas, blinking data screens, and sparse workout programming are the limitation of these treadmills.
- Under $800
Just a tiny percentage of treadmills under $800 receive high marks in our reviews. Most treadmills around this price range can give better service at least a year, mainly if they’re only used for walking. It isn’t easy to get overall high quality at this price. Customers must compromise some durability and fun features. Like, you may not get a power incline here rather be able to find a manual incline. A contact heart rate monitor is available, but a more accurate wireless pulse reader is not.
- Under $1,000
Some of the treadmills under $1,000 have full tracks, modest power inclines, and a good variety of workout programs. Classic LCD monitors and touch screens are available as well. These treadmills usually have speakers with an AUX port so you can listen to music or podcasts while running. In addition, these treadmills are sometimes compatible with wireless heart rate transmitters. In this price range, you may get two years of parts and labor coverage.
Better Treadmills: Comparing Treadmills Priced $1,000+
- Under $1,500
Treadmills in this price range are more powerful and comfortable to use than treadmills under $1,000. They also have more advanced features, including steeper strength inclines, more giant touch screens, improved fitness options like heart-rate driven workout plans, and wireless chest bands in some cases.
- Under $2,000
This top-rated home treadmills under $2,000 deliver outstanding efficiency, cutting-edge electronics, and all of the benefits of a health club treadmill.
The best treadmills in this price range are perfect for serious athletes and families of many trainees. Behind the scenes, these treadmills have some of the most valuable features. Machines that cost a little less can look identical, but they will not last as long or work as well.
The best treadmills under $2,000 have better belts that last longer than those in their price range. In addition, compared to other belts that need waxing regularly, these higher-quality belts can be maintenance-free. These treadmills are also more likely to have improved cushioning systems, which enhance comfort by resisting the shock of running. These treadmills also have the feasibility of changing incline as required to increase calorie burn rates.
- $2,000 and Up
Treadmills in this category are all-around luxury treadmills for daily exercise at any intensity. These treadmills fit marathon runners (who need ultra high speed) and incline trainers (great for calorie burn). Buyers will get an extended residential warranty, but a commercial warranty may be short.
The top features may vary depending on the brand and model. But, most of the treadmill includes very high maximum speeds, excellent shock and sound absorption, extra-large displays, web-enabled touch screens, integrated television, and exercise tests in addition to regular workouts.
Maintenance-free tracks and interchangeable decks are standard on the best-value versions in this price range, giving them double the life.
Within the same price range, models may have a wide range of features and performance. Our in-depth treadmill reviews show you how different models compare to one another. You can also use our price-based lists of the best treadmills as a guide.
Select Features You Want
The majority of treadmills have unique features. These features can enhance the exercise experience and keep you motivated. Preset fitness plans, Bluetooth speakers, and televisions are some examples. You can determine which feature of a treadmill can help you achieve your fitness goals and which will be unused. Select the features you need before purchasing a treadmill, and that will help you narrow down the selection process of a treadmill.
Some of the most practical special features of treadmill are given below for your consideration-
01. Automatic Incline
This feature allows you to change the inclination by pushing a button without interrupting your workout. There is no need for manual adjustments.
Automatic incline changes are standard on most commercial treadmills. From a practical standpoint, automatic change is preferable. Even when running, you can change the incline on the fly. Think about how much incline of the treadmill you need to achieve the fitness goal.
The overall inclines on most home treadmills today are 10, 15, and 20%. Treadmills with a maximum incline of 40% allow you to burn calories at a runner’s pace simply by walking.
02. Workout Programs
Nowadays, most treadmills except cheapest treadmills have built-in workout programs that allow you to control the speed and incline. Often this programming justifies a price increase, so make sure that you would benefit from the extra workout instruction.
Many treadmill brands also offer the option of adding additional workout technology to your purchase in addition to the preloaded workout options. Here are a few possibilities for you to consider
- iFit: Users can access unlimited customized workouts through iFit’s. iFit cost depends on the plan and your preferred billing frequency. The iFit Google Maps app allows you to draw any route in Google Maps and digitally experience it with your treadmill. In addition, you can get access to viewing hundreds of videos provided by personal trainers from fitness studios all over the world. You’ll feel the rise and fall of terrain as the treadmill incline/decline responds to the programming. NordicTrack, HealthRider, and ProForm are the treadmill brands that currently offer iFit.
- Passport Media Player With Virtual Active:
Passport Media Player with Virtual Active will give users the feeling of dynamic outdoor adventure, although users are in a workout at home. Users can enjoy a workout at some of the most beautiful places all over the world. Users have to choose when and where to exercise, and impressive HD videos will fulfill their dreams. Users can explore the countryside, hills, riverside and many others. Users will stay inspired, amused, and healthy with a growing number of guided workout locations available.
Users who do not have Virtual Active built into their workout equipment can receive this content through the Passport Media Player. Users link the Passport Media Player to their home television, plug in the provided USB, and their cardio equipment wirelessly connects to the Media Player.
- Passport Media Player With Virtual Active:
- Heart Rate Monitor:
Heart rate monitors were once considered a luxury feature on treadmills, but they have become a regular feature on most home treadmills. The pulse sensors on the side rails or a chest strap sensor on a treadmill with a heart rate monitor read your heart rate. It provides you with information but does not monitor your workout.
- Heart Rate Monitor:
- Heart Rate Control:
The user’s heart rate is controlled by adjusting workout speed and intensity. This automatic adjustment helps the users to get the maximum benefit from each session. In addition, it takes the guesswork out of judging when to speed up or slow down. Landice treadmills, Smooth treadmills, and Epic treadmills are among the many treadmill brands now featuring heart rate control workouts.
- Heart Rate Control:
03. Treadmill Accessories
There are a variety of treadmill accessories available, ranging from treadmill mats to headphones, to make your running more enjoyable. This guide breaks down the different styles of treadmill accessories and recommends some top treadmill accessories.
- Treadmill Mats: Treadmill have a tendency to shake a bit and make noise (generated from vibration) while in operation. Buy one of the best treadmill mat to cut down the noise. It also protect your tiles and carpeting from being damaged and make easier to clean the area around your treadmill. Usually mats are made from recycled tire rubber, which is durable and shock-resistant.
- Cleaning Kit: A cleaning kit will extend the life of your treadmill by lubricating your belt. Commonly, Silicone and paraffin-based lubricants are used. Regular treadmill lubrication decreases noise, increases belt and motor life, prevents belt hesitation, and improves your workouts’ safety, performance, and enjoyment.
- Phone, Tablet & Cup Holder: Keeping such a type of holder will make your workout more enjoyable. Users can easily read an e-book by holding their phone/tablet/i-pad in a holder. The holder is made of materials that are both safe and environmentally friendly. ABS plastics and non-slip rubber are most commonly used to make treadmill holders.
- Phone, Tablet & Cup Holder: Keeping such a type of holder will make your workout more enjoyable. Users can easily read an e-book by holding their phone/tablet/i-pad in a holder. The holder is made of materials that are both safe and environmentally friendly. ABS plastics and non-slip rubber are most commonly used to make treadmill holders.
Make a Text Run & Take Reviews of Real Customer
It is a brilliant idea to make a test run before you invite a treadmill at home. In sports goods stores you can test different brands. However, You can purchase a treadmill online if you wish after getting it ideally fit. If testing a treadmill is practically impossible, it is better to go through truthful, experienced reviews/input from genuine customers.
Part-2: Technical Component of a Treadmill
Don’t be in a hurry to go out and purchase the first treadmill that you see. Take just a few minutes to read what’s critical of a treadmill.
Motor Power
Track of a treadmill is driven by motor power. Therefore, the motor power rating is probably the most considerable specification if you decide to buy a treadmill.
The quality of the treadmill and your feeling during workouts are directly affected by motor power.
The power of a treadmill motor is measured in horsepower (H.P.) or continuous horsepower (CHP).
When shopping a treadmill, always search for a continuous duty horsepower motor (Known as CHP motor). A continuous duty motor delivers the continuous static horsepower at all points during a workout. Most treadmills have a duty motor that ranges from 2.5 CHP to 4.0 CHP. Treadmills with 1.5 CHP or 5.0 CHP motors are available, but they are in the minority. Selection of motor power depends on the type of exercise you want to perform using it and your body weight. Here are our general guidelines for people having weight is about 200 pounds-
- Walking: Choose 2.0 CHP or higher.
- Jogging: Choose 2.5 CHP or higher.
- Running: Choose 3.0 CHP or higher.
It’s a smart idea to add another 0.5 CHP if your body weight is more than 200 pounds, since a motor operating at nearly full capacity can wear out quicker than one with more power to spare.
You should also finds a treadmill brand with a D.C. motor, which is quieter than A.C. motors, for a treadmill.
Most treadmill motors today come with a lifetime warranty, but cheaper versions come with much shorter warranties, so it’s best to consult with a sales representative to see what’s available before you buy.
Belt/Track Size
Belt/track size is not so important for normal walkers but important for runners. If you are over 6 feet tall, you would need –
- Walking : 50-55″ long and 20″ wide belt
- Jogging/ Running: 55-60″ long and 22″ wide belt
- Some treadmill brands like Landice and Bodycraft has more longer (like-63″) belt.
Belt Durability
Treadmill belt durability is determined by three key factors: thickness, metal rollers, and lubrication.
A two-ply or four-ply tread belt is more durable than a single-layer tread belt in terms of thickness. In addition, thicker tread belts are often quieter when in operation. One-ply tracks are used on a most-budget or mid-priced home treadmills. This feature may be removed from the specifications list because advertisers brag about thick tracks but remain silent when the tracks are simple.
Metal rollers that drive a track are another significant element. Larger-diameter rollers place less strain on the treadmill motor and make the belt last longer. 2.5-foot roller diameter is ideal for home treadmills.
Another essential element of tread belt longevity is lubrication. Treadmill belts must be lubricated to ensure that they run smoothly. This task is sometimes delegated to the treadmill owner, who will clean the treadmill belt every few months. The best treadmill tracks are those that don’t need any maintenance and are infused with silicone or another lubricant.
Belt Speed
Treadmill speeds are measured in miles per hour (mph), and the higher the number, the faster the belt of the treadmill moves. Generally, two to five mph is walking speed, six to eight mph is fast or light jogging, and over eight mph is jogging or running. When searching for a treadmill, you’ll want a maximum speed of at least ten mph or higher. The higher-end should be excessive than your need.
Control Panel
It should be easily accessible and easy to use so that you can adjust your desired speed and incline easily. Easily reachable buttons of the control panel will make it much easier to change between intervals. Also, the transitions between speeds should feel smooth.
Cushioning/ Shock Absorption
Track cushioning reduces the risk of injury and gives the stamina to continue working out for a longer time. In addition, it will provide you with a more natural road running feeling by absorbing the shock of the workout. Cushioning technology can mitigate (about one-third %) the negative impact of road running. Read technical specifications to figure out whether a treadmill has cushioning technology or not.
Incline
Incline means that the running surface will be on a slope (kind of like running on a hill), which will raise the level of difficulty of your workout. Different treadmills have different incline choices, allowing you to customize the slope according to your desired intensity level.
Treadmill having 1-3% incline feature will give you a better simulation of outdoor running conditions. But, if you want to raise your heart rate and burn more calories and fat (including stomach fat) from your body, purchase a treadmill with having 10% or higher incline.
Warranties of Treadmill
Treadmills are made of a reasonably complex pieces of equipment. When purchasing an expensive treadmill, having a good warranty will give you peace of mind.
Treadmill warranties usually come in several parts, including:
- Frame
- Motor
- Deck
- Parts
- Labor
The frame and motor on high-end treadmills are guaranteed for a lifetime. A separate deck warranty is not included with all treadmills, though some do provide lifetime guarantees.
When it comes to parts, anything more than five years is remarkable, in my opinion.
Labor warranties are usually limited to one year in the business, so anything longer is considered exceptional. However, these days, a lot of high-end companies provide two-year labor warranties.
The treadmill’s warranty will also give you an indication of the treadmill’s efficiency because companies will not offer extended warranties for cheap treadmills.
Before purchasing a treadmill, make communication with sales representatives regarding warranties policy.
Delivery & Set Up Cost
You have to pay a significant amount of money as a delivery charge (transportation charge) and set up (installation charge) of the treadmill at your designated area of workout. Check either this is included with the purchase price, or you have to pay it as an additional charge.
Treadmill Buying Guide (FAQs)
What should I look for when buying a treadmill?
Budget, space, and workout goals are the critical buying factors. It is better to consider other factors like motor power, weight capacity, incline, shock absorption, and exercise programs. If you have space limitations, then you can choose a small deck treadmill having folding capabilities.
How much does a good treadmill typically cost?
Treadmill prices can vary depending on design, motor power, deck size, availability of cushioning technology, and many other factors (discussed earlier). If you want to buy a treadmill with long-lasting durability, better motor power, and updated features, you must spend between $1,500 and $3000. If you have two or more users in your household, it is wise to purchase a treadmill costing at least $1,500.
Does treadmill use a lot of electricity?
Treadmills are the most popular machine for workouts, but treadmill consume intensive energy. A treadmill consumes between 600 and 700 watts of power on average. In addition, as a treadmill gets older, it will use up to 30% more energy than when it was new.
What are the best treadmills for 2021?
We recommend Sole F80, the Horizon 7.0 AT, and the Landice L7. These treadmills have a high-quality motor, maximum cushioning, incline, folding capabilities, and few unique features. These treadmills also have a higher weight capacity which will ensure long-lasting durability.
Does purchasing second hand treadmill cost effective?
Purchasing a used treadmill could appear to be cost-effective, but you don’t know its previous histories like use, repairs, and conditions. Treadmills are such a piece of equipment that I strongly warn against purchasing secondhand.