Buying a treadmill is a great alternative to going to a gym, especially if you don't have time to hit the gym or don't have an open space to walk around in. It's a fantastic investment as long as you get the right one. After all, the super posh treadmills at the gym likely cost a pretty penny. Will you really use it everyday and do you really need all the fancy features? Maybe you can tone it down just a wee bit when it comes to a machine for home use.

If you're buying a treadmill, look for these qualities:

It Can Handle Your Weight

135 kilograms is usually the maximum capacity of treadmills meant for home use. Treadmills usually come with a user weight rating; subtracting around 20kg from that should give a good gauge as to whether or not the machine can handle you.

It Fits Your Budget

This is easily the most important factor when buying any exercise machine. Or anything in general across life, really. With the improvements in technology, a high-quality treadmill can be bought for a reasonable cost. A good, high-quality treadmill will last for many years if it is taken care of properly. Thanks to the advancements of technology, there are many high-quality machines out there that will easily fit into your budget while getting the job done.

It Has the Appropriate Belt Size

Some treadmills are large enough for running or walking. But it's safer to use a treadmill intended for running or walking. This kind of treadmill is wider and longer than most other treadmills. For instance, its belt might be 48 inches long and 18 inches wide. They are sometimes big enough for people over 6 feet tall.

It Takes Up Just Enough Space

When choosing a treadmill, it is important to measure the available space first. No one wants to buy a treadmill and find out that it doesn't fit into the space intended for it. A folding treadmill also takes up space. Because treadmills are heavy and bulky machines, weight and portability are crucial factors. A treadmill is not just a machine; it's a fitness tool for both your body and your mind. What good is a machine you can't use?

It's Got Good Cushioning

Make sure the treadmill you're getting has a running bed that's good at absorbing shock. The belt should be stable and not move about with every foot strike, either. Regular running is best done on a machine 10 mph or higher.

It's Stable

This may go without saying, but it's absolutely worth mentioning. The treadmill has to be stable and safe to use. If it's shaking or rattling when in use, that's no good. In order for the run to be easy and smooth, the treadmill's frame should not be unstable. Otherwise, the runner (or walker) could possibly end up in a dangerous situation. 

Conclusion

Treadmills are great for running and walking exercises, even at home. When buying one, considerations should go beyond whether or not it fits a budget. Be sure it takes up just enough space, has good cushioning and has the appropriate belt size.

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