When choosing a treadmill for your home, the first thing you should pay attention to is the size of the belt. The average width of this element for most models is from 35 to 55 cm. The length of the canvas is in the range of 1.1-1.45 m. The dimensions must correspond to the size of the room where the device will be located. In addition, the larger the track, the more powerful the engine must be. And also choose the right exercise machine according to the height and length of steps of the users. The dimensions of the canvas must be such that a person does not trip. For users of average height, a width of 40 cm and a length of 125 cm is sufficient.
The number of layers of fabric affects the comfort level of athletes. The more there are, the smoother the tread moves and the less likely it is to cause injury. Therefore, a good option for a person who has problems with joints is a multi-layer fabric. To enhance the orthopedic effect, you should wear special shoes - sports sneakers.
An important point can also be the angles of inclination, with the help of which the load on the muscles changes. The simplest options for home allow you to change this indicator only manually. For semi-professional and professional models, a control panel is used for this. The angle changes with the help of an electric motor, which makes control more convenient. Although such devices are several times more expensive - and this is also worth taking into account when choosing.
- Smartphones and tablets
Test and review of the Samsung Gear Fit 2 Pro fitness tracker: comfort with a curved display
Buying a treadmill: the main criteria for choosing the right one
In this guide, we'll look at the distinctive features of treadmills and discuss the problem areas of treadmills. You need to pay attention to these things before purchasing. If you have any additional questions, write to our experts on the treadmill forum, they will help you figure it out.
Main parameters for choosing a treadmill
- Buying a treadmill: the main criteria for choosing the right one
- Maximum user weight
- Treadmill Motor Power
- Running belt Frame frame
- Heart rate monitoring and training programs
- Security Settings
- Mechanical treadmill
Before choosing a treadmill for your home, you need to take into account the main factors that will determine the parameters of the simulator:
- who will do it
- how many hours will they study?
- what do we want to achieve
- what is the level of motivation
When choosing a path, you need to provide some guidance. You need to know that a home treadmill, unlike a professional grade treadmill, is designed for less usage. The more expensive the simulator, the better the materials and better characteristics: a more powerful engine, a more comfortable running surface, many parts of the simulator are designed for intense impact and load. Accordingly, the price depends on this.
In short, we do not recommend buying tracks cheaper than 30 thousand rubles. And then everything depends on your financial capabilities. Of course, the ideal is a track costing about 100 thousand from a trusted manufacturer. It will have excellent functionality, good reliability and will keep you motivated!
Go! First, let's look at the main characteristics that must be taken into account when choosing a treadmill.
Maximum user weight
First you need to pay attention to the maximum user weight, it is indicated by the manufacturer. It is important to know the user's weight limit because it directly affects the frame, belt and motor of the treadmill.
A reliable treadmill for regular home exercise is considered to be one that is designed for a maximum user weight of 120 kg. In this case, all tracks are purchased with a reserve - add at least 20 kilograms to the weight of the heaviest user.
It is important to remember that some unscrupulous sellers exaggerate these parameters to make the simulators look more powerful and reliable than they actually are. It is important to pay attention to the total weight of the track itself, engine sizes and customer reviews of its operation.
Of course, if possible, it is useful to have insurance against the maximum permissible values, i.e. safety margin, since the weight of the simulator stated in the specifications may not correspond to reality. Unscrupulous sellers can abuse this value, regardless of the consequences that may lead to injury and, as a result, harm to health.
Device Basics
The initial element, without which any such sports attribute cannot do, is the fastening and holding frame. This, in essence, is the fastener, frame and skeleton of the entire mechanism, and everything else cannot do without this component. It is important that it can withstand a lot of weight, which is why it is better to use durable metals.
If you need a monitor that will also serve as a performance indicator, then you will definitely need a stand that can hold it all. It goes without saying that you also need a canvas, that is, in fact, a path along which you can run.
Let's not forget about the convenience elements. At first glance, it may seem that you can do without a good shock absorber. However, not everything is so simple, because the knees are a very vulnerable place in terms of running, and sometimes they, unable to withstand heavy loads, begin to hurt. It is in order to avoid this unpleasant symptom that it is recommended to jog not on asphalt and closer to a country road.
The best option is a forest path. It provides excellent shock absorption. And our treadmill should be as minimally hazardous to the user as an ideal grassy path.
Treadmill Motor Power
The second thing we look at when choosing a treadmill. Engine power is measured in horsepower or watts. Greater power (from 3 hp) indicates a higher quality and “hardier” engine, which means it will last longer than a lower power engine.
Sellers often focus on two indicators of treadmill motor power - continuous operation and peak load. For example, 1.75 constant horsepower, 3 peak horsepower.
When choosing a treadmill, it is better to focus on the indicator of continuous operation and motors from a well-known manufacturer (not the manufacturer of the exercise machine).
Typically, home treadmills have a motor power range ranging from 1 HP to 3.5 HP. If the seller of a budget model indicates an engine power of 4-6 hp, then this, at a minimum, should raise doubts, because such engines are installed on commercial exercise machines or on treadmills for professional use.
Unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers inflate the basic parameters and characteristics of simulators in order to increase their competitive advantage.
This begs the question: “How can I, a simple user, determine that I am not being deceived and that all the characteristics correspond to the declared ones?” Unfortunately, there is no such mechanism. All that remains is to read real reviews and look at the examination.
For some, often low-quality tracks, the motor power is calculated in watts. It's worth remembering that 750 watts = 1 horsepower. If you plan to exercise more than 3 times a week or your weight is more than 63 kg, it is recommended to look for a treadmill with a motor power of more than 1.5 hp. (1300 Watt).
Possible problems
Such an ambiguous decision as assembling a simulator with your own hands at home is a rather controversial option. First of all, you need to know where you can buy metal with suitable parameters. If you cannot order a set of pipes specifically for your parameters, then you will also have to deal with the problem of accurate and careful cutting yourself.
But it doesn’t matter where and in what form you purchase the materials. In any case , you will have to fasten these pipes together yourself. Most likely, and what will be the most convenient solution, you will choose soldering. After the structure is assembled, you will have to install bearings and shafts there, and it is important to do this in such a way that the deck is installed level.
Problems that can arise with the canvas are its price and availability. After all, only a solution designed specifically for these tasks is suitable for this, and therefore it will be quite difficult to find such sheets on the open market. And one more thing: the assembly process itself implies the presence of free time and interest in the process.
Running belt
The next important step when choosing a treadmill is the size of the running belt and deck. When choosing a treadmill, be guided by the size and thickness of the belt. This is important for users of different heights with different stride lengths.
For example, if you are 170 cm tall, it is not recommended to buy a treadmill with a short belt, since the comfort of the workout is significantly reduced and you will not be able to use the machine for intense running. You will barely be able to just walk.
Pay attention not only to the length of the running belt, but also to the width. A wide running belt also affects the comfort of exercise. If the running surface is narrow, you may step on the edges of the machine during exercise.
Running belts have different structures and different thicknesses. What does this mean and what does it affect?
Running belts come in 2, 3, and 4 layers. The fabric may also have orthopedic properties (orthopedic fabric). The main difference is the thickness from 1.2 mm to 3 mm, which affects the service life of the running belt. Accordingly, the thicker the belt, the longer the service life of the treadmill.
Frame frame
The base of the treadmill must be very strong to support not only your weight, but also the movement on the machine. As a rule, frames are made of steel and aluminum. Steel ones are stiffer, work quieter, and have a springy effect. Aluminum ones are also strong, but not as springy.
Structural stability
It is necessary to install the treadmill on a hard, flat surface to avoid unnecessary vibrations, shifts or swaying, but the determining factor for stability is the weight of the structure.
The heavier the simulator, the more stable it is, but also the smoother the running belt will be.
In addition, special height adjusters in the treadmill supports are responsible for stability; by tightening them, you can smooth out possible unevenness in the floor and get rid of swaying. Also, for greater stability, it is worth placing a rug under the path. This will not only allow the machine to stand more securely in its place, but will also reduce noise and vibration, which is especially important when training at home.
Treadmill cushioning
Because running inherently puts stress on your joints, many treadmills have adopted different cushioning systems to reduce impact. An important factor when choosing a treadmill for your home. Thanks to the shock absorption system, you can reduce the impact load on your joints while running on the treadmill by up to 40% on average. This means the number of injuries will decrease and training will last longer and more intensely.
The following types of depreciation are distinguished:
Springs. You should avoid using springs for shock absorption in a treadmill. The springs compress and with the same force transfer the force of the step back to the legs.
Elastomeric cushions. These orthopedic cushions are capable of absorbing some of the impact energy and are used on most commercial and professional treadmills. They have a multilayer structure and easily restore their original shape after deformation. Elastomers are rubber bushings that serve as a gasket between the deck and the treadmill frame structure, which together with the deck smooth out shock loads, making the workout more comfortable. Elastomers come in round and rectangular shapes. The determining indicator of effectiveness is thickness, which varies on average from 0.3 cm to 3 cm.
The most common shock absorption systems are: shock-absorbing deck and round or flat elastomers .
The deck is a plate consisting of a special wear-resistant material on the surface on which the treadmill belt slides. During training, the deck tends to bend, thus significantly absorbing shock impacts. The thickness of the deck, depending on the class of the treadmill, ranges from 16 mm to 25 mm.
Changing the inclination angle
Treadmills have the ability to change the inclination angle of the running belt, this happens in two ways:
- manually
- changing the angle of inclination using the display due to the built-in lifting motor.
On good treadmills, the incline changes using the keys work in parallel with the programs, increasing or decreasing the incline for the desired phase of the workout. We recommend. In mechanical treadmills, the incline angle is about 3-6 degrees. In treadmills with electric elevation, the angle can reach 22 degrees, which is very noticeable during training.
If your budget allows you to choose a treadmill with electronic incline, then buy one.
Heart rate monitoring and training programs
There are three levels of functional equipment of the treadmill for heart rate monitoring:
Base. Even the most basic mechanical treadmills are often equipped with manual heart rate sensors. The mounting on the brackets is unreliable, but at the same time they do a good job of reading the pulse and monitoring the time required for recovery. For the data to be correct, your hands must be wet and remain on the sensor for about 30 seconds. For accurate information you need to stop completely. It is better to choose a treadmill with a heart rate monitor.
Average. The treadmill comes with a chest strap or heart rate monitor that provides more detailed information about your heart rate. This allows you to quickly increase or decrease the intensity of your workouts to achieve an optimal heart rate. We recommend choosing just such treadmills; in extreme cases, buy a heart rate monitor separately. Do not buy tracks that cannot be connected to a heart rate monitor, they are extremely ineffective!
Professional. Treadmills at this level use heart rate watches, chest straps, or other compatible heart rate monitoring programs.
Training programs
Electric treadmills are equipped with a package of standard programs, plus a simulator that can contain cardio and custom programs, with the possibility of individual settings. Classic training programs:
- Interval
- Hills
- Fat Burning
- Cardio
We would like to focus on cardio programs. This is especially true in situations where there are disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system. The cardio program allows you to monitor your heart rate during your workout:
- informing you with a signal that the maximum permissible heart rate has been exceeded;
- the simulator automatically reduces the load without creating an overload in the work of the cardiac system when the maximum permissible heart rate is exceeded;
The program works correctly when using a heart rate monitor. The most effective training is with wireless heart rate monitors, which allow you to display the most accurate values without disturbing the comfortable training conditions.
In other words, if the machine is not equipped with a wireless heart rate monitor, you will have to periodically hold on to the handrails on which the heart rate sensors are located, and they are often inconveniently located.
Content
- The benefits of working out on a treadmill
- How to choose the right treadmill
- Types of treadmills
- What does a treadmill consist of?
- What to look for when choosing a path for your home
- Shock absorption system
- Selecting engine power in relation to user weight
- Selecting track size
- Treadmill speed
- Incline angle and load levels
- Structural stability
- How to use a treadmill
- Preset programs, training programs
- What else will be useful in addition to the track itself?
- Bottom line
According to statistics, most people do not walk two thousand steps a day. During the day we sit at work, in a car or public transport, and at home we spend time in front of the TV on the sofa. This lifestyle can lead to excess weight, diseases of the cardiovascular system and the musculoskeletal system. The salvation from these problems can be greater physical activity and the best option is walking and jogging.
It’s good to run outside, because the body receives a natural anaerobic load, the lungs are filled with oxygen, and if jogging takes place in nature in a picturesque area, then aesthetic pleasure is added to the sports training.
However, not everyone has the opportunity to run in the park, and running along city paved streets among people and cars will not bring much pleasure. And the weather is not always pleasant with sunny days. A treadmill will help you exercise without leaving the comfort of your apartment or your favorite gym.
Folding the Treadmill
It's always great when the treadmill folds up. This way we save space in the house. Choose systems with shock absorbers; they allow you to easily fold the machine. When unfolding the treadmill, the running belt lowers slowly, eliminating sudden lowering, which means there is no injury. Some machines do not have shock absorbers, which means you need to carefully lower the deck until it is completely unfolded. Hands can get pinched.
Security Settings
Security key. At one end of the key there is a magnet that is attached to the console, and at the other there is a clip for attaching to clothing. If you suddenly fall or stumble, the key will fall from the console and the machine will automatically stop. You won't get hurt. Only select a treadmill with a safety key.
Handrails. Side handrails are used to protect against falling when stumbling or changing speed. Before starting your workout, you should make sure that the handrails do not interfere with your arms moving while running.
Automatic slow start. No matter how fast or slow a user runs or their experience, the treadmill will never start immediately at the selected speed. All machines start slowly and gradually increase speed to the desired pace.
Now you know the basic parameters that you need to check when choosing a treadmill. Let's now look at the additional questions.
Where to place the treadmill?
It is not recommended to store fitness equipment in cold rooms, garages or on poorly insulated balconies. In winter, due to large temperature differences, electronic equipment may become unusable: for example, condensation may appear inside the control panel. If you intend to store the equipment in a cold room, you should pack it well to minimize the risk of damage.
If possible, place the treadmill in a room with a TV or stereo system. Motivating melodies and watching your favorite TV series and programs are a great incentive for regular training at full capacity.
Make sure there is enough space for the treadmill
Treadmills can take up a surprising amount of space. Therefore, it is important to know in what place, on what area it will stand, and check everything again before purchasing. As a safety precaution, you should check that there are no obstacles behind the treadmill.
Analysis of customer reviews
Find out more about the manufacturing company, its service in your city and history. How many years has the brand been operating on the Russian market and how does it solve emerging problems?
Careful study of documents
There is a list of important points that should be carefully studied in the documents, namely:
Money back guarantee. When purchasing a treadmill from an online store, you should pay attention to the possibility of returning the treadmill after you have received it, assembled it, and even tried it out. Well-known companies with a good reputation provide refund guarantees within 14 days, subject to return in the original packaging and full payment of the shipping costs, which, by the way, can reach considerable amounts. However, some companies may limit the return period to 7 days and complicate the situation by requiring that the equipment must not be used and the packaging must not be opened. That is, you will not be able to return the treadmill to such companies.
Warranty service and its cost. You need to make sure that the warranty includes service and parts replacement. Does it apply to home repairs, what work and what parts can be replaced free of charge. Otherwise, possible repairs will cost as much as a new treadmill.
Manufacturer and seller warranty. Often, the warranty should come from the company that manufactured the equipment and exercise equipment, not from the seller. Therefore, it is important to find out whose guarantee is provided to you. Additionally, it should be clarified whether the guarantee is activated automatically or to do this it is necessary to perform a series of actions, and if so, which ones. Warranty documents should also be checked for addresses and contact numbers that can be contacted if necessary.
Warranty for used goods. It is worth finding out everything about the warranty for the product from the seller of a used exercise machine, because it also applies to such a product. Although in most cases no one even asks about it.
Cost and possibility of post-warranty service. A particularly relevant point when choosing a treadmill in Russia. Many companies do not want to work with warranty obligations and therefore simply change the name of their brand. And customers are left with treadmills without representation and without the ability to repair them.
Cost of standard treadmills
Up to 30,000 rubles:
For this amount, you can choose an inexpensive electric treadmill for entry-level training, for basic fitness and fast walking.
An inexpensive power treadmill is always preferable to mechanical treadmills. On such tracks, manufacturers set a maximum user weight of about 120 kg. At the same time, testing of inexpensive tracks showed that even if the equipment can withstand such a weight, a simple engine cannot cope with such a load.
An inexpensive entry-level treadmill is more suitable for those who want to limit their activities to brisk walking: those who are recovering from injuries, or due to certain age or physical characteristics cannot receive a heavy load. To make training more comfortable, those whose weight is more than 70 kg should take a closer look at exercise machines in the next price segment - with a more durable frame and a more powerful engine.
Sellers of treadmills in the low price range offer fairly limited warranties and unfavorable return conditions. Most companies greatly reduce the return period. And most buyers cannot decide whether the track is suitable for them according to its characteristics. These details should be clarified before making a purchase, as a mistake can be quite costly.
Main characteristics of an inexpensive treadmill up to 30 thousand rubles:
- The area of the running surface is 120 cm x 40 cm;
- Maximum speed – 10-12 km/h depending on the price;
- Minimum set of programs on the display;
- Manufacturers of inexpensive treadmills that deserve attention: Xterra, , Proxima.
Up to 55,000 rubles:
For this amount you can choose and buy treadmills for home use, for beginner runners for a distance of up to 10 km.
By spending 50 thousand rubles on a treadmill, you get a machine that will help you achieve a good level of physical fitness with regular exercise. The main difference between treadmills in this price segment is the ability to adjust the inclination angle of the running belt (not manually, but automatically).
An automated method for changing the inclination angle of the running belt using a second electric motor allows you to adjust the inclination while moving without stopping. In addition, you can select the appropriate tilt angle adjustment program on the display. This is done to simulate running on hills and uneven terrain.
The functionality of treadmills in this price range:
- Automatic tilt adjustment – 5 levels or up to 8 degrees;
- The size of the running surface is 120 cm x 40 cm;
- Power – 1.5 hp;
- Speed – 14 km/h (12 km/h is a running speed for beginner and intermediate level runners, respectively, this speed opens up opportunities for interval training);
- Built-in speakers for MP3;
- Treadmill manufacturers that deserve attention in this segment: Xterra, Hasttings, Spirit, Sole, Proxima.
Up to 100,000 rubles:
Reliable treadmills for home use, for intermediate runners.
Intermediate runners who run about 15 miles a week invest in durable treadmills that can last for years. If you are spending about 100 thousand on a machine, the treadmill should be convenient, comfortable and have a long service life. This means there will be more space for running - a wider running belt, it will have additional high-quality cushioning, a large set of programs, and several modes for adjusting the inclination of the belt and training speed.
As a rule, reliable treadmills have the following functionality:
- Running surface area: 130 cm x 45 cm;
- Speed – 18 km/h (often intermediate runners run at this speed only during short sprints during interval training);
- Automatic tilt adjustment – up to 10 degrees;
- The minimum number of programs is 20;
- Manufacturers of reliable treadmills that deserve attention: Spirit, Sole.
Up to 180,000 rubles:
Heart rate sensing treadmill for gyms.
By increasing their budget, the user receives a perfectly level, interactive treadmill that can support and motivate regular exercise and make training an exciting adventure. Designed for long-distance and competitive runners.
Distinctive characteristics:
- The simulator is sensitive to heart rate and responds to its changes;
- Large running deck – minimum 150 cm x 50 cm;
- Speed – 20 km/h;
- Display with a set of 20 programs;
- Automated tilt – up to 15 degrees;
- Engine power – 3 horsepower;
- Availability of a fan;
- Free delivery by two specialists (very heavy equipment, one person cannot handle it);
More than 250,000 rubles:
Interactive computer technology, with built-in TVs and well assembled for commerce.
Exercising on a treadmill equipped with consoles with built-in TVs is a pleasure. You don't just run - your workout becomes interactive. You can watch your favorite programs, TV series, movies, and chat with friends just while running. Particularly attractive treadmills are the Cybex and Life Fitness. They are designed to be durable - withstand up to 16 hours of continuous use per day. Used for commercial purposes by gyms. They are quite bulky and usually do not fold up.
conclusions
You need to clearly understand that buying a good treadmill for running at home without serious expenses is very difficult. In the exercise equipment market, reliability, quality, and comfort are synonymous with high prices. At the same time, some popular brands can inflate the real cost, relying on their authority. But even in this case, it is better to overpay than to purchase low-quality equipment with a limited service life.
You should pay special attention to personal safety parameters and select a model with durable side rails or powerful handles that will allow you to stay on your feet in case of an accidental fall. For electric variations, a slow start mode and the presence of a magnetic security key are desirable.
Do not forget to plan in advance a place for convenient installation of a cardio exercise machine in the room, taking into account the location of the window, TV, and household outlet. The popular trend of using loggias in apartments requires careful consideration of the issue of floor vibration and noise insulation and thermal protection of equipment in the cold season due to increased sensitivity to low temperatures.
Most models provide for regular maintenance , which boils down to preventing shaft tension, removing abrasive particles and contaminants, and lubricating the blade for better gliding on the deck (after 30 hours of exercise or 300 km).
Types of Treadmills
Now let's understand the types of treadmills, so the choice will become much easier.
Mechanical treadmill
A manual treadmill uses a belt and rollers that the user moves using his own power. Since the belt does not move on its own, the user needs to set the pace: for this you need to have excellent motivation.
Mechanical treadmills use cheaper components to keep the price down. Therefore, it is generally accepted that their service life is quite limited. Mechanical treadmills are not recommended for purchase.
Electric treadmill
What distinguishes electric treadmills from mechanical ones is that they can set the desired workout pace independently. Many of these machines have the ability to adjust the incline to the desired level.
Folding Treadmills
It is impossible not to take into account the available space when choosing and purchasing a treadmill for your home. The advantage of folding treadmills is that they are easy to store and put away when not in use, they are compact and just as easy to fold out. Many folding treadmills feature hydraulic decks for slow disassembly and a locking system for added safety.
Commercial Treadmills
Better treadmills have a firm but soft running area, powerful motors, smooth automated incline, and an interactive smart computer, often with heart rate monitoring.
Where to place the exercise machine at home?
The best option is a warm room with a TV or computer, which will allow you to watch movies, TV series or listen to music while training. This will significantly increase your motivation and you will not be bored during training.
As for storage, it is not recommended to leave tracks on balconies or garages during the cold season, as this can lead to damage.
Terms used when choosing treadmills:
Most likely you still have questions. Therefore, we will decipher all the terms; they will help you when choosing a treadmill and communicating with consultants.
Running belt
The running belt is a moving element of the simulator, reminiscent of a conveyor belt made of durable rubber-fabric material.
Control system
Computer control system located on the front panel of the treadmill. Includes: display, navigation, selection of training programs, mode switching, etc.
Display
Digital screen on the front of the treadmill that displays basic information and metrics.
Heart rate monitor
There are two main types of heart rate monitors: wrist sensor devices in the form of a bracelet and devices with a chest sensor. Most machines come with built-in heart rate monitors on the handles, which measure your heart rate at the wrist - the data can be used to guide you, but the measurements are not entirely accurate.
Wearable heart rate monitors, such as chest straps or touch watches, are often more accurate than hand-grip meters. And they are also more convenient.
Recently, another type has become popular - a heart rate monitor with a sensor on the earlobe or on a finger - not the most accurate and rather inconvenient device for measuring heart rate, it can slip or fall during training.
Heart rate monitoring is used for a variety of purposes, from losing weight to developing professional athletic skills and getting into good physical shape.
The heart rate range is determined before the start of training depending on the individual goals. As you move, the chest strap, bracelet, or watch will record your heart rate, thereby providing feedback so that the user can maintain the amount of effort required to stay in the selected target heart rate zone. Many exercise machines have the function of automatically adjusting the training mode - using chest straps and sensors, depending on the parameters specified by the user and incoming information about the runner’s heart rate, they independently change the difficulty level, “adjusting” to the desired range. If you are interested in this type of training, you should carefully study the description of the simulator.
Running belt incline
Changing the inclination angle of the running belt affects the load level. Simulates hills, inclines, and cross-country running.
Mechanical treadmill
A mechanical treadmill is the simplest type of exercise machine, the load in which is set by the weight of the athlete and the friction force, the running belt is driven by the feet (this type of treadmill is not recommended for purchase).
Electric treadmill
A treadmill powered by an electric motor that changes the angle of the deck and moves the running belt while running or walking.
Programs and modes
Programs and modes of operation of the simulator on the front panel, allowing you to select the optimal load on the electric treadmill.
FAQ:
Will I have to assemble the treadmill myself?
Treadmills don't require much assembly, but another pair of hands will still come in handy - in order to properly align the machine, it is heavy enough to handle the job yourself. All the necessary recommendations are in the manual, but if you wish, you can pay for the purchase along with the installation service, which has become available in all stores today.
How noisy are treadmills?
Quality treadmills are quiet. It is important to understand where the simulator will be located. For example, if you live in an apartment building, be sure to buy a treadmill mat.
If the structure of the house is concrete, especially monolithic, then great, the path will work very quietly. But if the house is old, with wooden structures at its core, then there is something to think about. Although the treadmill itself operates almost silently, your running, especially if you run fast and exercise in the middle of the night, can be heard by your neighbors - and they certainly won’t thank you for it. To soften and reduce noise vibration and at the same time protect wooden floors, rubber mats for treadmills are often used.
Can I listen to music while working out on a treadmill?
Most quality treadmills have this option. Many treadmills come with built-in headphones, speakers, and an MP3 jack.
How much space does a treadmill take up?
According to the instructions, it is recommended to leave a gap of 10 cm on the sides of the treadmill. Full information about the area occupied by exercise equipment can be found in the description. In addition, you should make sure that there are no obstacles behind the treadmill.
What should you do if your treadmill breaks down?
Many treadmill problems can be resolved on your own. You can obtain the necessary information from the service department or on the pages of our forum, where specific situations that may arise are described and instructions are provided for their prompt elimination.
Repairing faulty electrical equipment is a more complex process, and it is not recommended to do it yourself. Most treadmills come with an in-home repair and service warranty, so it's best to contact the warranty provider for assistance if necessary.
How easy and comfortable is it to move the treadmill?
It all depends on the brand and the features of the treadmill itself. Many types of good treadmills have wheels, making them easy to move indoors like a wheelbarrow. Although, to maintain motivation for regular exercise, it is recommended to place the machine in the same place.
Do treadmills have heart rate monitors?
This option is mandatory in high-quality treadmills. Many models include wrist heart rate monitors and devices with chest sensors for recording heart rate as additional accessories.
How can you use a treadmill?
It completely depends on the tasks you set. We talk about this on the forum. Check out our workouts and exercises.
How to care for a treadmill, what should you do regularly?
Treadmills require regular lubrication and tensioning of the running belt. Such work takes about 10 minutes and should be performed every 6-8 weeks. Systematic lubrication extends the life of the simulator and prevents malfunctions. The smoothness of the movement, which should resemble running on the street, depends on the tension of the running belt. There is a thread on the treadmill forum about treadmill maintenance to help you keep the machine in top condition.
It is worth paying attention to the area under the treadmill - it should be clean and empty. Vacuum and dust underneath the treadmill regularly. Any dirt or dust under the base of the machine will be collected by friction, and ultimately can cause many malfunctions.
Why do you need lubrication?
Silicone lubricant prevents wear and tear from friction on the running belt and deck (support boards). A similar procedure must be carried out every 6-8 weeks. According to statistics, in 80% of treadmill breakdowns, the cause is insufficient lubrication on the elements. We have created a separate topic on the forum about the process of lubrication of treadmill parts, there are answers to all questions.
Which treadmill is best for beginners?
If you have never run before and want to improve your physical fitness, pay attention to a treadmill in the range of 50 – 80 thousand rubles. This offer perfectly combines price and excellent quality. On these treadmills, you can start with a brisk walk and gradually build up to a 10K run if you want. Even if you are a beginner, it will still be more pleasant to use an electronic treadmill with an automatic incline and a good maximum speed. You will be able to see that a good treadmill itself stimulates and encourages you to improve your physical fitness.
Which treadmill is best for marathon training?
Treadmills are ideal for use in training for long-distance races. They allow you to set individual training goals and protect your knees from the effects of trail running. If you plan to train 3-4 times a week, we recommend a reliable treadmill from 100 thousand rubles. These are good treadmills for serious purposes, they will accompany you for many years and at the same time keep you motivated with their impeccable performance, as well as a huge deck for long legs and fast steps.
Assembly
So, first you need to buy the necessary parts. In particular, you will need to make a frame, and the best solution would be to weld it from some pipes made of durable metals. The best option in this case is aluminum.
When making a frame, take into account its dimensions so that the canvas can move freely inside this frame. In addition, an excellent solution would be to weld the handles to suit your own height; they should be covered with some kind of non-slip material.
The lowest frame on which the shafts will subsequently be installed should have a slight slope. Some fastenings are also needed to hold the deck. The movement of the canvas and comfortable running along it is ultimately provided by the shafts, and in order for them to work smoothly, combine their design with bearings.
This is interesting: How to make a money tree