Treadmill accessories can bring convenience to your workout by providing extra storage for various items. They can also improve the condition of your treadmill, since treadmill parts wear down over time. Below you will find descriptions of many accessories available for most treadmill models.
Reading and Listening to Music
If you have ever worked out on a treadmill, you know that running or walking in the same place can get tedious. Accessories for the treadmill now bring added entertainment for your strenuous exercise.
You can add a reading rack to your treadmill for your favorite magazine or book. The rack fits right over the console and can hold even thick books. Now, while you are walking or taking a break, you can flip through your book with ease. Running and reading, however, is not recommended. You may find this quite hard to do.
Maybe music is the ticket to keep you motivated. If music is the kind of entertainment you prefer, you can find treadmill accessories with radio attachments. Treadmills at many gyms have a radio conveniently attached to the console. Now, you can add one to your at-home gym. It is a great alternative to wearing a Walkman or CD player on your hip, which may restrict movement. Now you can run to your favorite tunes whenever you want.
Convenience: Improving Your Health and Accessibility
If you are more interested in improving your health than staying entertained, you will find these next treadmill accessories more appealing. If you have purchased a cheaper treadmill model, chances are you lack a heart rate monitor. You can find heart rate belts in most fitness or equipment stores. You wear the belt around your waist and signals are carried directly to the machine. Some machines do provide monitors on the handgrips for greater convenience. Compared to the handgrip versions, the belt gives the most accurate readings, hands down. So, even if you do have handgrips, you might want to consider investing in a belt anyway.
Companies have also made convenient holders to attach to your treadmill for keeping needed items nearby. These caddies can attach to most treadmill models, creating more space for water bottles, towels, and remote controls for the TV. You could also use the caddy to store cleaning supplies for the treadmill. Keep a bottle of cleaner and clean towel nearby at all times to keep your treadmill clean and sanitized.
Treadmill Accessories for Treadmill Upkeep
Exercise equipment, when used regularly, has a tendency to wear down over time. Treadmills can collect dust and dirt underneath them, which could potentially damage the mat. The mat itself can take only so much damage before it creates more noise and less traction. Check the manual for the right mat size. It will either be ¼ inch thick or 3/8 inch thick. Most fitness experts recommend getting the 3/8 thick mats because they provide better cushioning and support. In addition, your best choice by far for finding these mats is the Internet. You will have a better selection and can comparison-shop with ease. If you’re not comfortable looking for the parts yourself, check with the store you bought your treadmill from for advice.
Great treadmill accessories include more than just physical parts and attachments. Out of all of the potential accessories, first make sure you have a great warranty. Make sure your warranty covers basic wear and tear, and includes replacement parts. You will probably not need to replace anything for at least two years, depending on how often you use your treadmill, but having a great warranty is the best accessory you can buy.
By Tamara C. Jude