With a variety of models, deals, and brands, it can be difficult to decide on the top home treadmill. All the flashy deals and characteristics that sellers emphasize often distract people of the fact that the treadmill lacks the fundamentals of good machine.
However, this can be avoided by knowing the the 4 essentials to a good quality treadmill.
The treadmill should have:
1) A Solid, High Powered Motor
Carrying the title of being the most expensive to repair, the type of motor a treadmill uses should be carefully examined. A motor with at least 2 HP should last longer.
The higher the motor power, the better. Keep in mind that a 1.5 HP motor will have to work about twice as much as a 3.0 HP motor. Therefore, it’ll be out well before the stronger motor.
In addition, check that the motors are built with high quality parts. Research more about the quality of the motor by checking for a known brand name or the motor warranty.
2) Quality Cushioning
Often, cushioning is overlooked when purchasing a home treadmill despite its importance. Cushioning essentially prevents damage to ligaments, joints, and back. Without a good cushioning system, users may feel pain.
A close friend of mine purchased a cheap treadmill and used it frequently. Due to the weak cushioning system, this friend damaged their hips and experienced pain when walking. This is something that is preventable. Ensure that the treadmill has a quality cushioning system, particularly if you plan on running.
3) Considerable Warranty
A treadmill is an investment. It’s important that the warranty is extensive. In general, the warranty of the frame should be at least 30 years. While the parts may be warranted for about 1-5 years. If the warranty is above these years, the warranty is excellent!
It should not only protect the investment, but inform you about the quality of the treadmill’s parts as well.
A company with poor parts will not offer warranties as they are aware that parts will have to be repaired within an acceptable time frame. On the other hand, a company will offer a long time warranty if they use high quality parts that won’t break down easily. A motor with a 10 year warranty, for example, is most likely a good quality motor. A warranty that only lasts for 90 days is the opposite.
4) Valuable Brand Name
As with all other products, a brand name may have a reputation for high quality products. However, a well known name may also not have a great reputation.
Ensure that the treadmill you plan to buy has a good reputation. How can you be sure about its reputation? Read through ratings and reviews on sites or magazines. Take note to any brand names that frequently top the list. Most likely, these brands have good manufacturers.
In review of the basic fundamentals of an excellent home treadmill:
1) A Solid, High Powered Motor
2) Quality Cushioning
3) Considerable Warranty
4) Valuable Brand Name
With these characteristics in mind, your process of finding the best treadmill should become simpler.
Best wishes in finding a great home treadmill!
