What should you pay attention to when buying a treadmill?

• Posted on 10 January 2022
• Posted in Cardio

Do you like walking or running, but are the weather conditions not always pleasant? It can be too hot, too cold, wet, slippery or dark... A treadmill offers the solution! With this you can easily move the outdoor workout sessions indoors and you don't have to interrupt your training schedule if the weather outside is bad for a while.

Of course, you should not buy the first treadmill you come across. There are different models for different training purposes. So: what should you look for when choosing a treadmill?
 

1. Maximum speed, incline and number of programs

What are your workout goals? Do you have a high average speed? Then choose a treadmill with a higher maximum speed. Do you like a tough challenge and is climbing a hill the right type of workout for you? Then you choose a treadmill with the option of an incline angle. Do you want a lot of variation in height and speed during your workout? Then go for a treadmill with multiple training programs.
 

2. Shock absorbtion

Whether you walk or run, every step you take impacts your knees. If you run on asphalt, you have less damping than on a soft forest floor. Good damping support is therefore important. That doesn't just apply to the running shoes you wear, it also applies to a treadmill. Do you have sensitive knees or joints or do you use the treadmill for rehabilitation? Then you may want to look into a treadmill with good shock absorption.
 

3. Running belt

Based on your decision regarding damping and shock absorption, the choice for the right running mat is made. The grip your shoes have on the mat is also influenced by the running mat. There are different types of running mats in various thicknesses and structures.
 
An orthopedic mat (cross tip), for example, is thicker, has a coarser structure and gives you more grip.

The diamond mat is a more luxurious mat with a diamond structure and a smoother surface.

If you choose the sand mat, then you have a good, affordable mat with a grain structure.

Are you tall or a little shorter? This can also influence the choice of a running mat. For taller people, a narrow running mat can feel claustrophobic, causing you to constantly look down to see if you're still on track.

4. Handles

Most treadmills have a handlebar so that you have something to hold on to while running. Some treadmills also have side handles. This is ideal if you have mobility problems, have difficulty with your balance or are recovering from injury.

On the T80, T85 and T90 you can also attach a REHA rail (rehabilitation handrail) for even more grip.

5. Folding options

How much space do you have? Can the treadmill stay in one spot or do you want to put it away after each use? Many treadmills in the Tunturi range are foldable by lifting the running surface. Most of these foldable treadmills are equipped with a softdrop system, you don't have to do anything other than press the spring with your foot; it will then come down gently by itself.

Do you have a real lack of space? The Cardio Fit T10, for example, is fully foldable and with a height of sixteen centimeters can easily be slid under the bed or in the closet.

6. Size and weight

As a runner, your joints have to absorb the impact of your steps, but the treadmill itself also has to endure a lot. As a rule of thumb, the heavier the treadmill, the more stable and solid the running experience. Also, heavier treadmills often have a higher maximum user weight. The downside of a heavier treadmill is that you have to lift it into your house, and they generally take up a bit more space. Luckily, the transport wheels always help you on your way.

7. Motor and warranty

You can adapt the choice for the type of motor depending on your expected use. In general, the heavier the engine, the greater the power. If you have the treadmill for recreational or intensive home use, a DC motor motor – which most treadmills are equipped with – is sufficient. The T80 and T85 are good examples of this. These treadmills come with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor for home use. 

For professional or frequent use, it is better to choose a treadmill with an AC industrial motor, such as the T90. This motor is maintenance-free and comes with a lifetime warranty.

8. Extra's and accessoires

"Need anything else to go with it?" You can opt for a standard treadmill, but there are also treadmills with extras and accessories. For example, a bottle holder or a tablet holder so that you can watch a movie or series while walking. If you want more grip, you can attach a REHA rail to some treadmills. With bluetooth (and depending on the monitor also analog) you can connect to a heart rate monitor to keep track of your progress.

A bluetooth connection also allows you to connect to apps such as Tunturi Routes and Anyrun, with which you can not only track your workout progress, but also follow real-time running routes.

Were you able to make a choice between all the options? Tunturi has a wide range of treadmills!