Advantages and features of a mechanical treadmill, nuances of choice

Author

— Sergey Meshkov, FPA teacher, certified personal trainer, CMS in athletics, multiple winner and prize-winner of all-Russian and international competitions.

Often in fitness, you come across myths or misconceptions about running on a treadmill. Adequate information is either missing altogether, or someone else’s unfounded speculation is being reprinted. Surprisingly, in elite sports there is a unified scientific understanding of the characteristics of running in various conditions, but in the fitness industry there is no correlation with sports developments in this aspect. To identify the truly existing features of using a treadmill, we will highlight the “pros” and “cons” of its use. These are completely conditional values ​​that may vary depending on individual goals, characteristics and capabilities. Therefore, to solve the specific problems of each person, it is necessary to select the most profitable and optimal running options.

Features and Benefits

All treadmills have the same operating principle. The main structural part is a looped belt rotating between two shafts, located on the platform. Additionally, the exercise machine is equipped with handrails that provide the user with safety and help maintain the body in the correct position when walking or running. Less common are models of mechanical treadmills without handles.

The difference between this and other types of simulator is that their belt rotates automatically at a given speed. A motor or a system of magnets is “responsible” for this. But here the canvas moves only thanks to the efforts of the one who walks or runs along it; without muscular effort it simply stops.

That is, a mechanical track is the most structurally simplest option. This naturally affects its cost. These are the budget models that are most often chosen for the home. They also have other advantages:

• independence from the source of electricity - it can be installed wherever space allows;
• compactness - this is how a home treadmill should be, given that many still live in “Khrushchev” buildings;
• weight ranges from 20–30 kg - this determines the mobility of the simulator; almost any woman can move it alone.

Of course, there were some downsides:

1. There is no way to adjust the load using preset training programs. The settings are very primitive, only the angle of inclination and the resistance force of the brake shaft change. And then, this adjustment is very approximate. It is carried out manually, before the start of training.
2. The simplest display, displaying only basic data (in very old models it is generally absent). The maximum that can be seen is the total training time, distance traveled, and the number of calories burned.
3. The movement of the canvas is not very smooth - due to the kicks of the legs, it moves jerkily.
4. No depreciation. This greatly increases the load on the joints, especially the knees.

The mechanical principle of controlling the simulator has another drawback. The treadmill is only suitable for those of relatively small build. The maximum load is relatively small (up to 100–110 kg).

1 — training computer, 2 — central handrail, 3 — handrails with pulse sensors, 4 — vertical posts, 5 — front shaft with flywheel, 6 — front support, 7 — base, 8 — rear adjustable support, 9 — running belt Treadmill console tracks: 1 - display, 2 - keys Compact

Mobility

Independence from power supply

Additional motivation

Has it ever happened to you that you didn’t perceive a free opportunity as something serious? Agree, anyone can put on sneakers and go running outside. But how many people do this? This is how human psychology works - we don’t value free opportunities.

Having spent money on a special exercise machine, you are more likely to want to recoup its cost, for example, by losing weight with its help or developing endurance.

We pay not for a thing, but for the opportunity to achieve our desires through a purchase. Therefore, buying a simulator is an additional motivation to use it and get what you want.

Benefits and harms

Running is a sport that, unless there are contraindications, is recommended for everyone. It helps improve the overall endurance of the body, restore muscle tone, and helps get rid of extra pounds. But “working for relief” will not work; other exercises are needed for target muscle groups.

The main load when running falls on the legs and buttocks. The muscles most actively involved in the process are the posterior thigh, gluteal, and quadriceps muscles. The iliacus muscles are “responsible” for the correct flexion of the lower leg. The back and abdominal muscles are also tense, helping to maintain the body in the desired position. The biceps and triceps work during curls.

There are few contraindications for running, but they also exist:

• any problems with the musculoskeletal system, especially the knee joints;
• recent serious spinal injuries or spinal surgeries;
• varicose veins

Weights when running (no matter on the street or on the track) should be used very carefully. Many fitness instructors recommend completely abandoning this idea so as not to harm your own health.

Differences from magnetic and electric models

Even without knowing how a mechanical treadmill differs from an electric or magnetic one, it is easy to notice a significant difference in appearance. A different operating principle led to serious design changes. As a result, the dimensions and weight of the simulators have increased. And, of course, improvements and greater running comfort affected the cost.

A magnetic treadmill is a solution to the problem of belt jerking. The brake in this case does not interfere with its movement when running, but only slows it down by “pulling” the tape towards itself. The blade rotates smoothly and almost silently. Knowing how a magnetic treadmill works, it is easy to understand that the principle of its operation reduces the mechanical wear of the belt itself and the brakes.

The answer to the question of which treadmill (electric or mechanical) is better is obvious to everyone for whom cost and compactness are not the main selection criteria. The electric motor “ties” all actions with the simulator to its own power, and not to physical effort. By pressing the buttons, he sets the desired parameters - the angle of inclination of the blade, the speed of its movement, the level of resistance. There are differences in appearance and display design. In addition to basic data, the simulator allows you to track biometric parameters, current speed, and program “profile” (preset or set independently).

Running on such a track is very comfortable due to the smooth ride and high quality cushioning of the fabric. It is very easy to control; the mechanism responds quickly to “commands”. But this does not mean that the simulator is ideal. Disadvantages include large size, significant energy consumption, and high cost.

Selection rules

When deciding which treadmill is better in each specific case, one cannot help but take into account why it is needed in principle. For those who are just starting to exercise and have not yet understood whether it is convenient for them at all or should look for alternatives (an exercise bike, a stepper), or do not strive for sports records or noticeable weight loss, a mechanical one is also suitable. It is also a good option for those who simply want to diversify their morning exercises and combat physical inactivity.

Having decided that it would be better to purchase a mechanical treadmill, when choosing, you need to pay attention to the following criteria:

1. Price. If this is the determining factor, then a manual treadmill is clearly the best option.
2. General dimensions. You need to figure out in advance where the simulator will be located and whether the selected model will “fit” there.
3. Tape width. For comfortable running, a minimum of 43 cm is required. Children and very slender people can try a canvas with a width of 37 cm, but it’s better not to risk it. If the foot slips off the path, it is easy to damage the knee and ankle.
4. Possibility of folding. Most often it is provided for treadmills without handrails. This helps solve the issue of storing the simulator and transporting it.
5. Maximum load. It should not exceed the exerciser’s own weight. It is better if there is a “play” of 10–15 kg between the values.

When choosing, you can’t help but take into account what brand this model was made by. Reputable companies that have long specialized in the production of exercise equipment guarantee high quality, ergonomics and reliability even for the most “primitive” treadmills at an affordable price. When purchasing products from an unknown Chinese brand, you cannot be sure of anything.

Dimensions and belt width are key criteria for choosing a mechanical treadmill

An important parameter is the maximum load

How to care for your treadmill?

All device models must be properly maintained. Regardless of what kind of exercise treadmills are used, they need:

1. Pull-ups, which are performed strictly according to the instructions for the sports equipment. To do this, use a special key included in the simulator kit.
2. Centering, performed by rotating the tool in different directions until the desired result is obtained.
3. Replacement of the canvas, which is carried out by specialists at home when it is severely worn.
4. Lubrication, the frequency of which depends on how intensively the treadmill is used. It is considered optimal to renew the lubricant after 300 km.
5. Cleaning is carried out when dirty with a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner.

Nuances of operation and maintenance

A mechanical treadmill, due to its operating principle, requires specific maintenance. When using it you need:

1. Centering. The tape may “move” to the side. If it is not corrected, the blade will come into contact with the stationary parts of the mechanism. This provokes their premature wear and is unsafe for the practitioner.
2. Belt lubrication. If you do this regularly, the service life of the exercise machine will increase significantly, and the noise level when running will become noticeably lower. Information about what types of lubricant are suitable for this track can be found in the instructions; if they are not available, any silicone-based one will do. The canvas needs to be lubricated from the inside, alternately lifting both edges and moving it forward little by little. They do this about once a month, every 30 hours of “running”. The fact that it is time to do this is indicated by the heating of the belt while running, the unevenness of its movement, and very noticeable jerks.

If parts are clearly worn out, it is better not to replace them yourself, but to entrust this to a specialist. Reputable brands have a network of service centers, which it is recommended to contact.

To operate effectively, the treadmill requires periodic alignment.

The belt is lubricated every 30 hours.

Popular manufacturers

The best brands that produce manual treadmills are:

1. Brumer. A German company offering a wide range of sports equipment, accessories, and exercise machines. Its products are highly valued for their build quality and reliability. The brand does not pursue innovation, so the cost of all models is quite reasonable. The TF2001B track is popular.
2. Eras. The treadmills produced by this brand (for example, TM1556-01) are distinguished by a reinforced design and are suitable for intense training. Another advantage is their ergonomics, which ensures the most physiologically correct movement. In terms of cost, they fall into the middle price segment.
3. HouseFit. A company from the USA, specializing specifically in home exercise equipment for ordinary people, and not for professional athletes. The advantages of treadmills (in particular, the HT-9147HP model) are small size, ease of use, environmental friendliness, and affordable cost. And all this with consistently high build quality.
4. Body Sculpture. The models are developed in the UK and assembled in China, which significantly reduces the final cost. However, finished products undergo strict control to ensure compliance with European quality standards. Treadmills (including models BT-2650H-H, BT-2760B-H) are very reliable, durable, and easy to use.
5. Driada Fitness Company (DFC). A Russian brand that produces a wide range of sports equipment. The cost of treadmills is quite affordable, because they are assembled in China. The exercise machines (T1004, T30) are distinguished by their interesting design, good quality and durability.
6. Torneo. A Chinese brand whose products are designed for those who want to create a gym at home at minimal cost. The cost of treadmills (for example, the entire Torneo Cross series) is extremely low, but the quality is average; the manufacturer only provides a one-year warranty.
7. Atemi. Originally a French brand, it is now owned by Russian businessmen, who have included exercise equipment in their product range. The company's concept has not changed - quality and reliability at an affordable price. The range of treadmills is constantly updated - this applies to both design and technical characteristics. The most common model is AT-605.
8. Proxima. One of the leading brands producing professional and home exercise equipment. Its products combine innovative technologies and design solutions, ease of use, high quality materials and workmanship. The cost is at an average level. A popular choice for the home is the RF-2 PROT-205 track.
9. Family. A relatively new Chinese brand specializing in “replicas” of top models from more well-known companies. Exercise machines (for example, the TM200M treadmill) are positioned by the manufacturer as professional, but the cost is quite affordable. The build quality is good, as are the performance characteristics.

Any model, especially one produced by a reputable brand, should be purchased only where they can provide a quality certificate confirming its originality.

Users value mechanical treadmills for their efficiency and compactness. It will also be useful for those who want to tone their muscles with a sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work, and for losing weight. Its design is simple, even primitive, but there are other disadvantages. They and the rules for using the simulator must be taken into account when deciding to purchase it.

Atemi

Body Sculpture

Brumer

Driada Fitness Company

Eras

Family

HouseFit

Proxima

Torneo

Common mistakes when running on a treadmill

A treadmill is a real lifesaver for lovers of aerobic exercise at home. Movement is very good for health, and the exercise machine allows you not to sit still in any weather. Experienced athletes take the recommendations into account, making their training as effective as possible. Beginners make various mistakes that affect their figure:

• Lack of concentration. When running, it is important to pay attention to your training program. In the process, you can listen to music, watch TV, but without forgetting about your posture, posture and the quality of the exercises.
• Turning the body towards the TV. Many home workouts take place while watching TV series and programs. Sometimes the screens are located behind the runner, which inevitably leads to frequent turns. This not only reduces the effectiveness of exercise, but also worsens posture and creates muscle tension in the spine.
• Same loads. Many beginners do not dilute their training with new elements, which leads to rapid adaptation of the body. The effect of running is significantly reduced - the process of losing weight slows down. To prevent this from happening, each new lesson should be different from the previous one.
• Support on handrails. This element of the track is only necessary in case of loss of balance. During training, such holding contributes to poor posture and can affect the development of some serious diseases. The weight is transferred to the handrails, the body receives less load - the intensity of burning fat deposits decreases.
• No warm-up. Many people immediately stand on the canvas and start running. This is strictly forbidden. It is important to warm up your muscles in advance and prepare them for intense training. To do this, it is enough to spend from 5 to 15 minutes performing simple rotational movements. They improve joint nutrition and protect against injuries.

In the ranking of the best sports equipment for home, treadmills occupy a leading position. If you urgently need to lose a few kilograms, proper nutrition alone is not enough. Buy an effective unit for home jogging. Fast results are guaranteed.