Are you buying a treadmill for walking, running

When you buy a car, you don’t just choose the biggest, best or fanciest vehicle you can find. A Jaguar won’t fit a big family, a Hummer (do they still make those?) may not fit in your garage, Commercial Grade Treadmills and you probably can’t afford either.

Treadmills aren’t as expensive as cars. Most are still pretty pricey, though, and very few of us have an unlimited budget and unlimited space for a treadmill. So the first step is to think about why you’re buying one, where it will go, and how much you can afford to spend.

    Purpose: Are you buying a treadmill for walking, running, or a combination of both? And do you envision pushing your body by tackling steep inclines and challenging courses, or are you picturing nice, leisurely walks or jogs? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your choices quickly. You’ll need a machine with a longer track and a more powerful motor if you plan on running, but you’ll be able to settle for simpler, cheaper models if you don’t need your treadmill to provide varied workout programs or incline functions.
    Location: The average treadmill is three feet wide and seven feet long, which is obviously an important consideration for many who live in apartments or smaller houses. You can find smaller ones, and many treadmills can be folded up (with varying amounts of effort – some models have power assist for that chore, and others can be stowed easily) to be put away when not in use, so things aren’t hopeless if you’re working with a limited amount of space. But it’s crucial to measure the area you have available for a treadmill (and don’t forget you’ll need room to maneuver around it as well) before you start shopping and fall in love with a machine your home won’t be able to accommodate.
    Budget: If you plan on slapping your American Express Black Card on the counter to pay for your new treadmill, budget is the least of your worries. For those who live in the real world, though, it may be the most important consideration of all. We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the $250 treadmills you see advertised online are usually not worth the price; they’re apt to break down easily, either mechanically or electronically. You can find decent machines under $1000 if you’re planning to use them primarily for walking (remember, we suggested that you first think about how you’re planning to use your Portable Treadmill?), but expect to pay more if you want a sturdy and reliable full-featured machine for running – often, a lot more. Now, here’s the good news: list prices aren’t always worth the paper they’re printed on, or the screen they’re displayed on. Manufacturers often discount their treadmills, both at stores and at their online sites, so careful shopping and in-person bargaining can lead to some pretty nice bargains.