Things To Consider When Making a Treadmill Comparison
Buying a treadmill is similar to buying a car. While not nearly as expensive as a car, treadmills are still spendy. You’ll spend at least $1,000 for a quality treadmill and you can spend as much as $5,000! When you’re spending a thousand or more on a piece of exercise equipment it’s important to make sure you are going to be happy with what you buy.
Like comparing cars, there are many things to consider when making treadmill comparisons. There are price considerations, space issues, components to be aware of, and various features to consider. There are also differences in the warranties from one treadmill to another that you’ll want to be aware of and compare. All of these things should be carefully looked at when making treadmill comparisons to make sure you end up with a machine you are happy with.
Price Comparisons
As with most products, you can tell a lot by the price. Generally, more expensive treadmills are going to be higher quality than cheaper models. When you’re comparing treadmills, keep this in mind. Although there are treadmills that cost a few hundred dollars, they will not last that long. They have a higher chance of breaking down and usually need more service repairs than treadmills in the $1,000+ price range. In general, when buying a new treadmill you should plan on spending at least $1,000.
Performance and Component Comparisons
The performance of the fitness equipment is very important. When you find treadmills to compare, it’s a good idea to test them out first. Run or walk on the machine for a good fifteen to twenty minutes and really put them to the test. Try different speeds and different inclines. Test driving a treadmill is like test driving a new car – you want to put it through as many conditions as you think you’ll be using it.
Is one more stable than the other? Does one feel like it has a more cushioned deck than the other? How does the motor sound? Does it make any “funny” or irregular noises when you change speeds or inclines? If it does, this could be a sign that the motor isn’t powerful enough to meet your needs. The motor shouldn’t sound like it’s working hard or straining when it is pushed at higher speeds and inclines.
When comparing different models of treadmills, be sure to keep notes on the various components of the machines. Read the section of the treadmill buying guide that discusses the key components of the treadmill to become familiar with them so you know what to look for. You’ll want to compare the motor, frame, deck, treadbelt, and the belt rollers. Each of these is critical in the overall quality of the equipment and the overall exercise experience. If you buy a treadmill that is lacking in any of these areas, it could cost you in repairs and result in a bad user experience.
Space Concerns – Comparing Folding Treadmills
If space is a concern, you should consider a folding treadmill over a non-folding treadmill. While folding treadmills built today are nearly as stable as non-folding models, there is a wide range of stability among them. The less expensive the equipment, the less stable it will be. Look for folding treadmills that start around $1,000 as this is the price where folding models become very stable.
Once you’re comparing folding treadmills in that price range, you’ll want to concentrate on the overall performance and components of the treadmill as outlined previously. In addition, you’ll want to see how easy the deck actually folds. Some models, like the Smooth 7.1 treadmill, fold with a simple push of the button. Others require manual folding which can be difficult if the deck is very heavy (which it should be for stability).
Folding treadmills are usually easier to move around but not always. If you want the ability to easily fold up and move your treadmill aside after your workouts, try moving the treadmills before you buy. Is one easier to fold and move than the other?
Comparing Speed and Incline Settings
You’ll find as you compare treadmills that some can go faster and incline more than others. One treadmill may be able to go at a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour while another can do 15. If you are planning on running a lot make sure that you get a treadmill that can go as fast as you intend to run. This is also the case with incline settings. Treadmills will vary greatly in the steepness that they provide.
Warranty Comparisons
The treadmill warranty is a good indicator of quality. Treadmills with lifetime warranties on the key components such as the motor and frame will be much better than one with only 90 days. Pay close attention to the warranty coverage to make sure you are comparing apples to apples. If the warranties on all the treadmills you are considering are similar, what about the in-home service coverage? Will you be responsible for making the repair yourself or will a technician be sent to your home for free to make the repair?
The Importance of Reviews & Forums
When making treadmill comparisons, read reviews on the models of your choice. Try to find reviews from several websites in order to get a wide range of opinions. Look to see how many reviews a particular treadmill has. The more reviews it has, the more popular it is and there is usually a good reason for that. However, obviously pay attention to the overall review ratings the treadmills have. A popular treadmill doesn’t always mean it is the best. It could be it is just cheap so read what the actual reviews are saying.
Look for forums where treadmill models are discussed. Forums provide a wealth of information. You’ll not only get to read hundreds of questions posed by other treadmill buyers, but you’ll be able to post your own to get answers to your specific questions. More often than not, treadmill forums will provide more useful information about the models you are considering than treadmill reviews will.
As you can see, there is a lot to consider when making treadmill comparisons. By following these general guidelines when comparing treadmills, you’ll be able to find the best treadmill that will meet your needs – and your budget!