Treadmills are a great piece of equipment to own because walking can take place no matter what the weather. Walking is a great form of exercise due to the calorie-burning effect and the added benefit of it being a weight-bearing exercise (this strengthens the bones and helps prevent future problems such as osteoporosis). Treadmills are also easier to use than other pieces of exercise equipment, and a wide range of choices is available.
Choosing your treadmill
Consumer Reports February 2004 issue aptly displays treadmill choices. There are three main price groups for treadmills. The first is the basic model running $300 to $700. If you are walking on a budget, consider one of these. They normally have a top range of 10-mph and a 10% incline. They are great for walking because they are not sturdy enough to run on. As you’re walking, you could see your speed, distance, time, and as we all are interested in knowing, calories burned. Water-bottle holders are included, and you should be drinking plenty of fluid while walking.
The mid-range products are typically priced $800 to $1,800. These are good for those whose main exercise is walking or occasional running. They have the basic features and a heart-rate monitor. That comes in handy when you want to know if you’re in your fat-burning zone while walking. These might also have exercise programs.
The high-end models run from maybe $2000 to $3,500. If you enjoy running as well as walking, one of these models is the way to go. They are large and sturdy, and lots of space is needed because there is no folding deck. They have the more powerful motor needed for running. If you do a lot of walking and have to share equipment with a runner, this would be the way to go.
You want to be safe while walking on your treadmill. Therefore, keep some things in mind. First of all, look for wide-enough foot rails. You’ll also need a belt that is wide and long enough for you. Imagine having too short of a belt for your legs. Walking on that would be dangerous. It’s also wise to be sure that the machine is set up to hold your weight. Some machines have limits. Safeguards will give you some piece of mind. Look for the tethered key or switch to stop the belt if you slip. Extra handrails while walking would be of benefit at times. A bottle holder is a good feature because you want to keep your hands free, but staying hydrated while walking is important too. You could pause while walking, take a sip, and then continue with your exercise.
A last word about safety: make sure the workout area is free from children, pets, or objects while you’re walking. It would be disastrous to trip or have someone or something get caught up in the equipment while it’s moving. And before you get on the treadmill, get the okay from your doctor. If you are clear to go, step up onto the side rails first before starting up the treadmill. Then when the belt is moving slowly, step onto it. Don’t overdo the workout. Fitness is a gradual process. Have fun walking!
By Laura N. Hogg