How to choose a treadmill?

The treadmill is an indoor jogging cardio machine used in all fitness clubs and at home. Walking and running on this device allows you to solve many problems:

• weight loss, drying, work on the relief;
• strengthening the cardiovascular system (light cardio a couple of times a week is necessary even at the stage of gaining muscle mass for this very purpose);
• development and increase of endurance;
• a positive effect on the state of the central nervous system, which allows you to rest and recover from working days.

The modern fitness industry offers the widest selection of different treadmills. You can find options for prices ranging from 5-10 thousand to 1-1.5 million rubles. In this article, we'll figure out how to choose the right treadmill.

What determines the choice of a treadmill?

Most importantly, you need to choose the track directly for yourself, and not look at the reviews of other users and even eminent athletes. Let's figure out what selection criteria should be considered first.

Place of use

All tracks can be divided into three large groups:

1. Home... They are used at home and cost the least - from about 5 thousand rubles for the simplest models. Not designed for constant heavy load and high intensity.
2. Semi-commercial... They are used in small gyms with low and medium traffic.
3. Commercial... Suitable for large modern fitness clubs, where the load on the simulator will be almost around the clock. They also feature a longer warranty and support period. Although, of course, if you have funds, no one bothers you to purchase such an option for your home.

User parameters

Height, stride width, method of use (walking or running) are important here. The size of the treadmill will primarily depend on this.

An equally important parameter is the user's weight. It affects engine power, frame and belt. See the technical specifications for the maximum user weight for a particular track. If several people are supposed to be exercising, consider the weight of the heaviest one.

Attention! It is worth choosing a simulator with a margin of 15-20 kilograms. The weight of the user can vary, and there are also unscrupulous manufacturers who overestimate this parameter in the characteristics.

This also includes the planned number of workouts and their duration - the load on the simulator also affects the choice. The larger it is, the more professional model you need to acquire.

Other important criteria

You can also highlight the following important nuances:

• Training goal... For example, if you are planning to run professionally, you will need a more expensive model equipped with a motor, which has a large treadmill and various functions - heart rate monitor, training programs, changing the incline, and others. And if you only plan to walk, a budget mechanical model may well suit you.
• Motivation level... If you know that it is difficult for you to regularly study at home, there is no point in overpaying for a future clothes hanger. The best option would then be to go to the gym, for example, to group classes, where you will be motivated by a company and a coach.
• Warranty period... Accordingly, the larger it is, the better.
• Amount of fundsthat you can spend on your purchase. Do not forget about this, in most cases you have to choose in a limited segment of models.

Where to place the simulator at home?

The best option is a warm room with a TV or computer, which will allow you to watch movies, TV shows or listen to music while exercising. This will greatly increase your motivation, you will not be bored in training.

As for storage, it is not recommended to leave paths on balconies or in garages during the cold season, this can lead to breakdown.

Types of treadmills

Treadmills are conventionally divided into three types - mechanical, magnetic and electrical.

Mechanical

Powered by the muscular strength of the user's legs. In other words, until you unwind the canvas yourself, it will not move.

These are the most budgetary models with a short service life. Their big plus is independence from electricity, so you can put them almost anywhere.

Magnetic

An improved version of the mechanical version. Unlike the first type, they are equipped with a magnetic drive, which provides a smoother and quieter movement.

Electrical

The belt is driven by an electric motor, which provides an even smoother movement (even compared to magnetic ones). Accordingly, an electrical connection is required. They have extensive functionality, but the price is also the highest.

Track characteristics and functions that influence selection

Running belt

There are three main parameters to consider here:

• Web width... The wider the jogging area, the more comfortable it is to exercise. No need to focus on keeping your foot off the stationary part of the machine.
• Blade length... Length is equally important, especially for joggers. At a fast pace, the stride width increases, so short tracks will be uncomfortable in this case.
• The number of layers of the canvas. There are 2, 3 and 4 layers. The more layers, the more durable the canvas.

Below is a table on the basis of which you can calculate the optimal width and length of the canvas, depending on the height:

Track engine

The engine power directly depends on the user's weight. If you select this parameter incorrectly, the simulator will fail faster. Also, under increased load, the noise level will increase.

For home treadmills, the best choice would be an engine with a power of 1.5 horsepower for girls and from 2 liters. from. - for men.

It is worth navigating per power indicator of continuous operationrather than peak load.

Frame

The frame must be able to support your weight and work on the machine with a margin. There are two types - made of aluminum and steel... The second option is preferable.

Dimensions and stability

Do not forget about where your path will stand, whether it will fit into the planned place with specific dimensions.

Also pay attention to the handrails - they should be comfortable, located at the optimal height for you, and not interfere with movement.

Noise level

Mechanical tracks are much noisier than electrical ones. It is recommended to test the simulator before purchasing to see if it is making too much noise.

If you have laminate or parquet flooring at home, a rubber mat should be placed under the device to reduce the noise level.

Changing the angle of inclination of the canvas

Changing the incline angle allows you to adjust the load not only by the running speed. The higher the incline angle (at the same speed), the higher the calorie consumption will be:

Changing the angle can be done manually on the cheapest models and using the buttons on the control panel in more expensive ones. In the first case, the angle will change slightly - approximately from 3 to 5 degrees... In the second - up to 20-22 degrees.

Depreciation systems

The presence of a shock absorption system has a positive effect on the joints, primarily on the ankle and knee. It is much more convenient to work on such simulators, the shock load is reduced to 40%.

There are the following types:

• Springs... Not the best option.
• Soundboard... This is a special plate on which the running belt slides. Its thickness is in the range of 16-25 mm.
• Elastomers... Rubber pads that are located between the deck and the frame of the machine. Their thickness ranges from 3 to 30 mm.

Heart rate monitoring

Knowing your current heart rate is essential for any type of exercise. On tracks, it can be measured in the following ways:

• Heart rate monitors built into the metal plates on the handrails. For most users, their accuracy will be sufficient.
• Separate heart rate monitor or chest strap. Their data is more accurate. If they are not included, they can be purchased separately, after making sure that they can be connected to a specific track model.

Preset training programs

Typically, cardio equipment is equipped with the following typical programs:

• Losing weight / burning fat.
• Cardio (development of endurance, strengthening of the heart).
• Hills - training with a different angle of inclination of the canvas.
• Interval programs.

Most often, on the control panel, you can set your own custom setting by selecting the desired load values.

Additional functionality of the control panel

The main ones are:

• Availability of space for a bottle of water. Not quite directly related to the panel, but usually located next to.
• The ability to connect headphones and gadgets.
• Backlight.
• LCD displays and multimedia.
• Wi-Fi.
• Speed ​​and tilt control buttons on handrails.
• Dozens of different workout programs and more.

Which of these you need - it's up to you to choose.

Folding possibility

All types of tracks - mechanical, magnetic, electrical - can have this useful function. This is very convenient when using the cardio equipment in small spaces. When folded, they take up less storage space and are easier to transport.

The folding system itself can be mechanical (manual) and with shock absorbers. The second option is optimal primarily for girls, since it is rather difficult to lift the canvas of a large simulator.

For ease of movement, it is worth choosing models with wheels.

Safety of use

The most important thing here is security key... It is attached to the user's belt and in the event of a fall, stops the walking belt, which helps protect against injury.

Another useful feature is slow start... Regardless of the set running speed, the simulator starts up gradually, which also helps to avoid traumatic situations.

Do not forget about the possible contraindications for using this cardio equipment:

• injuries to the joints of the lower body and spine;
• too much excess weight;
• problems with the cardiovascular system;
• varicose veins;
• asthma;
• periods of various diseases, including ARVI.

If you have such problems, be sure to consult with a specialist before starting training.

Treadmill prices

From 5 to 30 thousand rubles

This range includes mechanical (from 5 thousand), magnetic (from 12-13 thousand) and the most budgetary electric ones. If possible, it is worth choosing the latter option and, only if your amount of funds is closer to the lower limit, consider simpler models.

Equipment of this class is suitable for those who just want to do non-professional cardio - fast or slow walking. For running or if the user's weight is over 80-90 kg, it is better to choose models from the following price range.

Among the manufacturers are Torneo, Proxima, Xterra.

From 30 to 55 thousand rubles

Here are electric models with more advanced functionality. There is an opportunity to automatically change the angle of inclination, increased power, maximum running speed, expanded training programs.

Suitable for beginner runners. From manufacturers it is worth choosing between Proxima, Xterra, Sole, Spirit.

From 55 to 100 thousand rubles

Reliable trainer for intermediate to advanced runners. The maximum running speed is up to 18 km / h. Increased canvas area and many additional convenient features. Manufacturers - Sole, Spirit.

From 100 thousand rubles

Commercial fitness paths fall into this category. There is no point in buying them for home use.

Watch the video: TOP 10 Best Treadmills. My Deal Buddy (November 2024).