Complete Consumer's Guide to Buying a Treadmill
Opposite ends of the treadmill range
The treadmill on the left of the photo costs just $80; the one on the right will set you back $3,999 - and that's not the most expensive treadmill on the market! So as you can see, there's quite a range to choose from.
But do you have to spend the best part of a month's income to get a decent machine? Well that depends on your requirements. As with any piece of kit, the more you spend, the more you get. Plus. the more reliable and durable machine you'll get.
If the treadmill is just for you to walk on it two or three times a week, an $80 model may do you just fine.
If you have a fit family of five who can happily train for an hour a time, seven days a week, the motor on the $80 machine won't see out the week! To get something capable of handling that sort of punishment, you'll have to be prepared to spend $1,500 and above. For this sort of price, you'll can get a machine with multiple profiles that can keep track of each family members progress over time.
Here's our quick guide to how to make your decision on what model may be best suited to you. The following is a checklist of things you need to consider before buying a treadmill.
Buying a Treadmill Checklist
Let's start with the obvious:
- Do you like walking, jogging or running? It's surprising just how many people buy a treadmill and never get around to using it! If you're not the type that is comfortable spending long periods on your feet, then a treadmill is really not for you. Or if your ankles, knees or hips can't hack the long treks, you should consider a rowing machine, exercise bike, or elliptical trainer. Perhaps when you've lost weight, or your legs are stronger, a treadmill will be suitable. If you've not used a treadmill before, we suggest to find one to try out to see if you like the action. Even if you're already a runner, check them out first. We know many a runner who feel uncomfortable using one.
- Are you motivated to use it? Check out the secondhand fitness equipment on eBay and you'll find many described as 'good as new' because they've barely been used, If you're about to spend your hard-earned cash on a machine, be sure you will make the most of it. Thankfully, many models now come with some excellent features to keep you motivated. So if you need a nudge to keep you on track, consider a machine with training profiles, virtual, or online trainers.
- Do you have the space? Treadmills generally take up more room than most other types of home exercise equipment. Your average model can measure between 70" to 85" long, and be 30" to 40" wide, so check the dimensions before you commit to buy. The majority do have folding decks so it can be stored out of the way when not in use, but you'll still need the space when using it. If space is limited, compact machines may be an option, but these do have limitations and can be difficult for an accomplished runner to use due to the small size of the running belt. If you can't accommodate a treadmill, an exercise bike is perhaps a better way to go as they often require less room.
- What about the neighbors? Do you live in an apartment, or have thin partition walls? While the motors of today's treadmills are quieter, the pounding of your feet on the running deck may sour relationships with your neighbors. You can buy shock absorption mats to go beneath your treadmill - in fact, manufacturers recommend them, but they do have their limitations. Also, the type of floor can determine whether a treadmill is an option for you. Some of these machines weigh in excess of 250 lbs, and when you add your weight thumping down on the deck, can your floor take it?
If you're happy with your answers to the above, you're ready to move onto the next stage.
Which Treadmill is Best for You?
The first major factor to determine your final choice is your budget. Decide what you're willing to spend and then check out what's on offer for your cash. On this site we break down the price-brackets in to the following.
The top price-bracket can extend to close to $10,000, but unless your the fitness fanatic Von Trapp family, you really don't need to spend that sort of cash.
The main benefit to spending more is you'll get more functions, better reliability and durability, plus a more generous warranty for piece of mind. But don't always expect superior customer service. One of our main beefs with the fitness equipment brands is their after-sales service - and spending more with the top brands won't always translate in to better care. In fact, in a survey we carried out in 2018 for buyers of rowing machines, we were surprised to find one of the big budget brands, Sunny Health & Fitness coming out on top with the most satisfied customers for their service!
You can find our growing list of reviews of treadmills by price-range here...
- Under $500 - Low budget
- From $500 to $750 - Budget
- From $750 - $1,500 - Mid-range
- Over $1,500 - Premium home to light-commercial
The top price-bracket can extend to close to $10,000, but unless your the fitness fanatic Von Trapp family, you really don't need to spend that sort of cash.
The main benefit to spending more is you'll get more functions, better reliability and durability, plus a more generous warranty for piece of mind. But don't always expect superior customer service. One of our main beefs with the fitness equipment brands is their after-sales service - and spending more with the top brands won't always translate in to better care. In fact, in a survey we carried out in 2018 for buyers of rowing machines, we were surprised to find one of the big budget brands, Sunny Health & Fitness coming out on top with the most satisfied customers for their service!
You can find our growing list of reviews of treadmills by price-range here...
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If you have a specific question we have not answered here, please feel free to contact us. We aim to answer within 24 hours.
If you have a specific question we have not answered here, please feel free to contact us. We aim to answer within 24 hours.
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