If you plan to use a treadmill for running, you should avoid budget treadmills with cheap construction. Budget treadmills typically have short warranties and are not built to sustain the impact from frequent running workouts. If you only plan to use the treadmill for walking, you should be able to find a good model for less than $1,000. Before you purchase a treadmill, you should visit a sporting goods store or fitness equipment retailer to test out the machine.
Types
The best treadmill will have a construction that ensures it will work for a minimum of five years. Treadmills with longer warranties typically are made using better materials, according to the American Council on Exercise. If you are at an advanced level, you should consider a treadmill with an incline grade of at least 15 percent. The treadmill should have adequate cushioning on the belt to reduce the impact during use. If you are over 6 ft tall, the best treadmill for you will have a belt longer than 55 in.
Features
Features to consider in your treadmill include heart rate monitoring, folding capabilities and electronic programming. Heart rate monitoring allows you to monitor how hard you are working and to stay within your target workout zones. A non-folding treadmill is a better buy than a folding version as long as you have adequate room in your home. The extra joint found on folding treadmills can create an unstable surface for users. Electronic programming with a variety of workout programs keeps you from growing bored during workouts.
Precor 9.31 and NordicTrack A2550
Treadmills top rated by Consumer Reports includes the Precor 9.31 and the NordicTrack A2550. The Precor 9.31 changes speed by monitoring your foot movements during operation. Additional features include telemetry heart rate monitoring, multiple user profiles, cushioned joints, max 12 mph speed, 15 percent incline and eight workout programs. The NordicTrack A2550 includes iFit compatibility, 18 workout programs, 12 percent max incline and 12 mph max speed.
Trotter 510
The Trotter 510 was the best rated treadmill during a study conducted by the American Council on Exercise. Standout features include electronic display console, extra cushioning, low vibration, quiet motor, 10 percent grade incline and speeds from 1.0 mph to 8.0 mph.
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