This article was initially published on Mashable aimed at a US audience and has been tailored for readers in the UK.
Having some exercise equipment at home is something we all appreciate, especially during these times when many of us continue to work from home and adopt more sedentary habits.
Nevertheless, one piece of fitness equipment often appears formidable: the treadmill. Whether it’s due to its size, bulkiness, or the notion that once you step on, there’s no going back, treadmills have been viewed as some of the more intimidating workout machines for a long time. However, contemporary home treadmills have significantly evolved—they are now sleek, intelligent, and interactive, making them far more approachable than older versions.
Regardless of whether your aim is interval training or maximizing calorie expenditure, modern treadmills are filled with features such as audio systems, tablet holders, compatibility with fitness apps, sophisticated heart rate tracking, and more.
What health benefits does using a treadmill provide?
Owning a treadmill enables you to enjoy all the cardiovascular benefits of exercise in the privacy of your own home. These benefits encompass improved heart health, calorie burning, weight management, reduced blood pressure, enhanced sleep quality, and more. A quality treadmill is also crafted to be easy on your joints, thanks to impact-absorbing features that diminish the risk of injuries typically linked with running on hard surfaces like sidewalks.
In addition to the health benefits, treadmills offer remarkable convenience. They provide the flexibility to exercise whenever it fits your schedule, and modern functionalities make it simple to tailor your workout regimen to align with your fitness aspirations.
What is the space requirement for a treadmill?
Space is an important factor when considering treadmills. Though they are not particularly small, they aren’t as massive and unwieldy as you might think. On average, a treadmill measures just under two meters in length and about a meter in width. If you’re short on space, you might want to look into a foldable model that can be tucked away when not in use, thereby freeing up valuable space in your home.
What features should you seek in a treadmill?
The majority of modern treadmills come with a console or display screen that presents key performance metrics, including calories burned, heart rate, distance covered, and speed. The variety of available stats will depend on the treadmill’s price point and level of sophistication.
High-end treadmills frequently connect to smart devices via Bluetooth and synchronize with fitness applications. Some even come with tablet-style screens that broadcast live workout sessions, akin to the experience provided by Peloton exercise bikes. For treadmills that lack built-in screens, it’s advisable to ensure they have a secure holder for your tablet or phone, allowing you to watch your favorite shows or follow workout videos while exercising. Other important features to take into account include adjustable incline levels.
What distinguishes manual incline from automatic incline?
If you’re new to treadmills, you might be unfamiliar with the term “incline.” Incline pertains to the slope of the running deck, and increasing it can enhance calorie burn and muscle development.
Manual incline necessitates that you adjust the slope using a lever, which is more prevalent in budget-friendly models. Conversely, automatic incline enables you to change the incline at the touch of a button, simplifying the process of adjusting the workout intensity on the go.
What is the price range for a treadmill?
Treadmill prices can vary significantly based on features and quality. If you’re in the market for a basic, foldable model that can be stored in a cabinet, options are available for under £200. However, if you’re seeking a high-end treadmill boasting cutting-edge technology and superior design, you could be looking at spending several thousand pounds. This guide features treadmills across various price ranges to help you find one that aligns with your budget and fitness requirements.
Which treadmill best suits your needs?
The ideal treadmill for you will hinge on your home environment and workout preferences. To assist you in your decision-making process, we’ve thoroughly researched online reviews and recommendations, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.