Treadmill is one of the most effective cardio options, especially if you have your own home trainer. But how to choose the most suitable model from a huge variety of sports tracks?
Treadmill can be a great investment, because it not only helps to lose weight, but also activates the cardiovascular, nervous and respiratory systems. In addition, it can be much more profitable than going to the gym, and more convenient than running in rainy weather.
Types of treadmills
Mechanical treadmills
Mechanical treadmills are lighter and cheaper than electric ones. They take up little space and you can always collect them. They do not require a power source to operate, and the running belt is powered by the movements of the user. They have been proven to burn 30% more calories in a single workout than traditional treadmills and engage more muscles as the user requires extra effort to move the belt. Also, a person must always hold on to the handrails to push the tape with sufficient force, so mechanical walkways are used mainly for walking.
One of the biggest advantages of mechanical treadmills is their safety. If you slow down, the speed of the walking belt will also decrease. All electric models, in turn, have a special security key. However, if the athlete decides to do without it, in the event of a sudden fall, the running belt will continue to move at the selected speed.
The disadvantage of a mechanical walkway is a large load on the joints of the legs and spine, so in the presence of certain diseases they may be strictly contraindicated.
Electric treadmills
Electric treadmills are powered by an electric motor. They are great for both walking and running, and the user does not need to hold on to the handrails throughout the workout. These sports tracks allow you to set any desired training pace. Many of them also have a feature that allows you to increase and decrease the angle of incline, making walking more difficult or easier.
The most significant difference between electric treadmills and mechanical treadmills is that the former needs to be plugged in and are more durable, heavier and take up more space. Electric treadmills also have special cushioning systems that reduce stress on the feet.
Additional treadmill functionality
A sports track can have many additional features that will help increase the effectiveness of classes and expand their capabilities. For example, some electric models are equipped with hand-held sensors that measure your heart rate, which will help you track your heart rate. Another useful feature is calorie counting. More expensive models also have built-in interval training programs.
How to choose a walking path
Before you buy a walking path for your home, you need to consider some important criteria that will help you choose the most suitable model.
What is the weight capacity of the walking track
The user's maximum weight is a useful benchmark for determining the quality of a treadmill. The weight of more than 160 kg indicates that this is a reliable simulator that is perfect for regular workouts at home. Treadmills used in commercial gyms often have a maximum user weight of over 180kg.
Treadmill motor power
The term "horsepower" is a unit of measure for the size of an engine. High horsepower (3 horsepower or more) usually indicates a high quality engine that will last longer than a small size engine. If you are going to exercise more than three times a week, you should buy a walking track with an engine of 1.5 horsepower or more.
Rama
The base of the treadmill must be strong. Frames are usually made of steel or aluminium. Steel frames are quite strong and quieter. Aluminum frames are also strong, but tend to be less springy.
Depreciation
Running on a walkway with a cushioning system can reduce the impact on your body by 40%. This will reduce the number of injuries and allow you to exercise longer. Types of cushioning systems.
Safety features
- Security key. It has a magnet on one end that attaches to the console and a clip on the other end to attach to your T-shirt or shorts. The safety key is needed to automatically stop the treadmill.
- Handrails. Side rails are needed to prevent a slight trip on the treadmill from falling. Make sure the handrails don't get in the way of your arms when you run, as they can throw your balance off.
- Auto slow start. No matter how fast or slow you run or how experienced you are, the walking path should never start at the selected speed. All quality models will start slowly and then gradually increase the speed until it reaches the desired pace.
Choosing a place to set up a treadmill at home
The electronic trainer is not recommended to be kept in places with low temperature, such as a garage. This may cause condensation to form in the system. If you have nowhere else to store your treadmill, you should cover it with a thick blanket or carpet during the winter to minimize the risk of damage.
Treadmills can be very bulky so measure the space in your room before purchasing. If you're short on space, consider getting a foldable treadmill that can be stored in a closet or under your bed.
Yandex. Market, Evo Fitness Delta treadmill, RUB 42,490
The electric treadmill has a touch screen display that shows the distance traveled, calories burned, current speed and heart rate. The trainer can be easily moved thanks to the transport rollers. It also has a foldable design, so it won't take up much storage space. Additional benefits include a cushioning system that reduces stress on the knees and joints, as well as floor leveling pads that allow the treadmill to be in a stable position on any surface. Maximum user weight - 120 kg, engine power - 2 hp
Yandex. Market, Orlauf Falcon M treadmill, RUB 47,490
This electric treadmill is perfect for those who want to lose weight in a short time, because it has 12 training programs. You can also change its angle of inclination from 0 to 4 degrees to increase or decrease the load during your workout. The ability to fold the simulator allows you not to take up much space. The track has a special display showing the distance traveled, speed, calories, steps and heart rate. To measure the pulse on the handrails are sensory cardio sensors. The simulator is suitable for people up to 180 cm tall and weighing up to 130 kg.
Yandex. Market, DFC T30/2 treadmill, RUB 13,990
The mechanical treadmill is great for home use and takes up minimal space thanks to its foldable design. The simulator has a console displaying time, speed, distance and calories. In addition, you can independently adjust the angle of the running belt in 2 positions. Maximum user weight: 100 kg.
Yandex. Market, Sport Elit SE-1611 treadmill, RUB 23,990
This treadmill can easily replace a trip to the gym as it also includes a stepper, twister and push-ups. The walking track has a magnetic load system (8 load levels) and does not require a mains connection. Display shows workout time, distance covered, speed, heart rate and calories.
Yandex. Market, Titanium One T40 S treadmill, RUB 29,490
This ultra-compact electric walking treadmill is designed so that you can train on it while you work in the office or at home. Just place it under a high table for a standing position and get on with your work. This model is suitable for workaholics who do not have time for a morning run or going to the gym. In addition, it is quite compact, has floor unevenness compensators to eliminate the possibility of swinging the simulator, transport wheels and a shock absorption system.