Looking to lose weight, strengthen muscles or improve breathing? Experts consider jogging to be one of the most effective types of cardio loads; it is during it that all the muscles of the body are maximally involved.
Jogging outdoors or at home - you choose. Each of the options has both advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at cardio exercises using home treadmills.
Detailed instructions for choosing a treadmill for home
So, to choose the most successful option for you, you need to highlight the requirements:
- What width, length, should you choose a treadmill belt? (It is necessary to take into account the height, weight of all family members who are going to use the simulator).
- What motor power and driving speed will be enough for your family?
- What additional features do you need, and what can be neglected?
Next, we draw attention to your capabilities, namely:
- Are you able to use a mechanical trainer? Are you strong enough to independently set the canvas in motion? Are there any medical contraindications (varicose veins, diseases of the knee joints) for using this type of track?
- Can you adjust to the given rhythm of the electric track? It works in a pre-selected or self-compiled mode that you will have to get used to.
- How much are you willing to spend? The peculiarity of treadmills is that due to their different functions and characteristics, their price ranges from 6-7 thousand to 1 million rubles.
- Compare the list of your desires and capabilities, if they coincide, it's time to finally decide on the simulator model. If not, determine what your mistake was. The following information will give you the answers to the remaining questions.
General criteria for choosing a treadmill
What to look for when choosing
Before finding out the characteristics, you need to pay attention to some external features:
- The treadmill belt should be made of several layers, in which case it will last much longer.
- An additional advantage if it is bilateral (if necessary, you can turn it over).
- The deck should move and brake smoothly, without jerking.
- If the size of your apartment is not so large, choose a simulator with the ability to move or fold.
- The functionality of the computer should be as simple and understandable as possible.
- It is desirable that the frame is made of aluminum. First, it will be much easier to move the simulator around the house. Secondly, its amortization will be higher.
- The less noise the track makes, the more enjoyable the activities will be.
Types and types of treadmills
Let's proceed directly to the characteristics of the simulator. First you need to decide on the type: mechanical or electrical?
A mechanical track involves setting the canvas in motion due to your own efforts, i.e., pushing off with your feet, you make it spin around the frame. The advantage of such a system is that you have the ability to regulate your speed on your own, and your run is close to natural conditions.
But at the same time, it takes much more energy, it's not for nothing that people with sore legs are not recommended to buy such tracks. The mechanical trainer has fewer functions: as a rule, the LCD display only shows the movement speed, heart rate, calories burned, training time, distance covered. Due to the minimum number of functions, the mechanical version has a lower price.
The electric track uses a set rhythm (using certain programs on the display), i.e. you cannot change it during a workout without switching the mode. Although it is easier to use such a simulator, it has more additional functions: for example, you can choose a program in accordance with the goal that you pursue while running. There are separate programs for weight loss, correction of certain leg muscles, breathing training. More expensive models even have a built-in player (it may not be used at home).
Next, let's turn to the specific characteristics of treadmills.
Blade length and width
Treadmills are 30-55 cm wide, 110-150 cm long.What you need to take into account when choosing a belt size:
- The choice depends on the build, height, stride length, running speed.
- Basically, preference is given to a simulator with a width of 40 cm, a length of 120-130 cm. Their dimensions are quite enough for training, they do not take up extra space in the house.
- If, nevertheless, you choose a simulator with a greater length and width of the deck, remember: to set such a belt in motion, the power must be higher, therefore, you overpay for the size of the simulator and the motor power.
- If there is an opportunity to test the simulator before purchasing, use it. Estimating the length, width of the canvas will not be a big problem.
Cushioning while running
Many models of modern treadmills require a special cushioning system. Let's understand it in more detail:
- Cushioning is essential to reduce the strain on your legs while running.
- The movements during natural running and training on the simulator are fundamentally different, respectively, the load on the body is different.
- Cushioning is usually a special deck design. The fabric is multi-layer, thicker and more elastic. The upper layer is softer, it recovers faster when pressed.
- For people with sore legs or recovering from various kinds of injuries, shock absorption is necessary.
- Can the machine be used without the shock absorption function? It is possible, but its availability will be an additional advantage.
Tilt angle adjustment
Features of tilt angle adjustment and its choice for different training purposes:
- The angle of inclination of the treadmill belt varies from 3 ° to 40 °.
- The higher the angle of inclination, the more effort is needed to overcome the distance.
- On mechanical models, the incline is mostly manual; just adjust it before starting your workout.
- Electric models have a tilt adjustment function from the display.
- If you use specific modes, the incline may change during your workout.
- Running for weight loss is mainly carried out at an angle of 8-10 °, for muscle training - over 10 °.
Safety engineering
For absolute safety when using the treadmill, you must both follow some rules yourself and be aware of the safety system created by the developers:
- Each treadmill is designed with an anti-slip surface to help keep the user safe from falls and injury.
- There are two lanes on the sides of the track. It is with them that you need to start running (as soon as the canvas starts to move, carefully step onto it).
- The safety key is designed to prevent any injury from a fall. Insert the key into the simulator, attach the other end to your clothes, then in case of an unwanted fall, the key will be pulled out of the track body, the belt will stop, you will avoid any unpleasant consequences. Do not neglect this moment!
- Check the treadmill periodically for faults. If there are any, use the treadmill until they are removed!
- Remember: you are responsible for your health, if you are aiming for grueling workouts, it will not be superfluous to consult a doctor!
Built-in workout programs
As mentioned above, electric trainers have more features, including built-in training programs:
- Classic Programs is the main list of built-in programs.
- Manual control is a command that allows the user to independently adjust the load depending on individual capabilities.
- Quick Start is a program that immediately starts a workout (usually used to warm up).
- Interval is a routine commonly used for cardiovascular training that combines intense running and relaxation.
- Fat Burning - Long-term, low-intensity workout program, most effective method for burning subcutaneous fat
- Glute muscle workout is a program aimed at loading the buttocks.
- Strength development is a regime aimed at gradually increasing the load, which is then applied 25% of the approach time and again reduced.
- Random Sequence is a program for those who do not adhere to a specific goal, trying to simply keep their body in shape.
- Cool down is a program that gradually reduces the intensity of the load at the end of the workout.
- Hilly Terrain - A mode that simulates running or walking in mountainous terrain. Assumes a regular change in the slope of the canvas.
- Track (or track) - a mode with a given distance, allows you to track the results of running at certain distances.
- Pulse-dependent programs - modes aimed at maintaining the heart rate by regulating the load throughout the entire running time.
- Weight loss with pulse control - the heart rate rises no more than 65% of the maximum possible value. Long workouts with low load.
- Fitness test is a mode for assessing your own physical fitness. The degree of fitness of the body is determined by the time during which a person's pulse returns to normal.
- Custom programs - training modes previously set by the simulator users. They are saved in the menu for later use. The speed, the slope of the web, and the time are independently selected.
Other parameters affecting treadmill selection
- Pay attention to the maximum possible weight, it should be 10-15% higher than yours.
- It is necessary to take into account not the peak power of the motor, but the constant one, it is she who is responsible for maintaining a certain speed. Be guided by your fitness goals and characteristics.
- The warranty for the simulator must be at least 3 years, for higher quality, expensive models it can be lifelong.
Home treadmill prices
Prices for treadmills range from 8-9 thousand rubles to 1 million. As a rule, the cheapest models are mechanical, reliable electric exercise machines cost over 20 thousand rubles. More expensive models are equipped with additional programs, made of more expensive materials, and have a long warranty period. They are often referred to as semi-professional or professional simulators.
The most trusted manufacturers
The most competitive manufacturers can be identified on the treadmill market. It is their technique that is the most durable, reliable, pleasant to use:
- Matrix
- Horizon fitness
- Torneo
- House fit
- Atemi
- Carbon
- Bronze Gym
Top 15 best models
So, let us single out the most proven simulators loved by users. In the lowest price category, the most popular brands are:
- HouseFit HT-9110 HP - a mechanical track, which costs only 10 thousand rubles, withstands a weight of up to 100 kg, there is a pulse meter, the ability to change the angle of inclination. The main drawback is the not too large canvas.
- Torneo Linia T-203 - the price ranges from 19 to 21 thousand rubles, the speed reaches 13 km / h, the engine power is 1 hp, there is a depreciation system, the weight can reach 100 kg.
- Carbon yukon - the price is 23-25 thousand rubles, the track is intended for a novice user, the speed is up to 10 km / h, the weight is up to 90 kg, one of the drawbacks is the lack of a heart rate sensor.
- HouseFit HT-9087HP - the cost is about 29 thousand rubles, quite a suitable option for amateurs weighing up to 100 kg, the speed of the canvas is up to 12 km / h.
- Carbon T404 - cost from 30 thousand rubles, there is a depreciation system, 12 different modes, possible speed - up to 10 km / h.
The mid-range includes models that are rich in features.
- Horizon evolve - the price is from 50 thousand rubles, the maximum speed is 10 km / h, the weight is 120 kg, there is the possibility of folding, a 1.5 hp engine, 3 built-in programs.
- Carbon T604 - cost 47 thousand rubles, weight up to 130 kg, speed - up to 14 km / h.
- HouseFit HT-9120 HP - the price is about 45 thousand rubles, the user's weight is up to 120 kg, the speed is up to 14 km / h, there is a depreciation system, the ability to change the angle of the web.
- Carbon T754 HRC - 52 thousand rubles, 15 different programs, speed up to 16 km / h, there are additional modes and functions
- CARBON T756 HRC - 55 thousand rubles, constant power 2.5 hp, weight up to 140 kg, 22 programs.
In the highest price category, the user's weight can reach 150-180 kg, the speed is 24 km / h, the number of programs is from 10 to 40, incl. pulse-dependent.
The most popular models:
- MATRIX T1X - 300 thousand rubles
- Bronze Gym T800 LC - 145 thousand rubles
- Bronze Gym T900 Pro - 258 thousand rubles
- Vision Fitness T60 - 310 thousand rubles
- Horizon Elite T5000 - 207 thousand rubles
Advantages and disadvantages of home treadmills
So, having understood the characteristics of treadmills, we will highlight their main advantages:
- They allow you to train breathing, keep your body in shape, monitor your weight at home (i.e., in absolutely any season, regardless of weather conditions).
- It is possible to use the program to solve a specific problem.
- Many exercise machines offer a cushioning system that even people with sore legs can exercise.
- Using the treadmill can be combined with other activities: watching a TV series, listening to your favorite music or lectures.
However, it is worth remembering that the treadmill has several disadvantages:
- Trail running is no substitute for natural outdoor running, whichever machine you choose.
- Some treadmill models are large enough to take up a lot of indoor space.
- Cheaper brands wear out quickly and require funds.
Treadmill feedback
For two months of use, I have lost more than 2 kg, aiming at greater results. Alternating running with other exercises. By the way, the simulator includes a bench for pumping the press (I use Quant-sport).
Maria
I have been using a mechanical simulator for about 2 months, now it only takes the place of the house! I strongly recommend choosing an electric one, it makes your legs catastrophically tired! Or maybe the best option is to just buy a gym membership?
Hope
Setting aside 15-20 minutes at home on a treadmill turned out to be much easier than forcing yourself to go for a run in the fresh air every time. If you decide - buy! I am using Atemi AT 627, there are advantages and disadvantages, like other models.
Alexandra
I have been using the Oxygen Laguna electric track for over a year. I have never abandoned classes, I am happy with my choice, functionality, quality of the simulator!
Alina
The whole family has been using the Torneo Magic track for about a year, a very convenient model! We bought it for 49 thousand rubles, 2 horsepower, it is quite convenient for all users, we do not stop classes, we are aimed at great results!
Egor
So, running on treadmills has a number of both advantages and disadvantages. If you are firmly convinced of your intention to purchase a simulator, be guided, first of all, by the purposes for which you are buying it, the level of your physical fitness and, of course, the weight and size of the body. Happy shopping!