There are 2 different motor power ratings when looking at treadmills:
1) The first is called Continuous Duty power (or CD HP for short). This is the power at which the treadmil can continually, steadily operate for 24 hours without slowing down.
2) The second power rating is called Peak Duty. This is the highest power at which the treadmill can operate (but it cannot sustain this for long periods of time).
The Continuous Duty power rating is a more accurate measure of motor power and it's the rating you need to consider when comparing treadmills.
Remember that the more strenuously you plan to use the treadmill, the more power you're going to need. So if you're planning on using the treadmill consistently or for long periods of time make sure you get at least a 2.0 HP motor (but the higher the better!)
#2) Warranty
The manufacturer's warranty is extremely important because a good warranty protects your investment. Treadmill manufacturers offer warranties that cover different treadmill parts for varying lengths of time
For example, a quality warranty will cover the frame for at least 10 years, the motor for at least 5 years and other parts and labor for at least 1 year.
(This is the bare minimum. Remember: you can usually get a good idea of the quality of parts used in the treadmill by the length of the warranty.)
An example of an excellent warranty is the one offered on Sole treadmills. They offer a lifetime frame and deck warranty and a lifetime year motor warranty (along with different warranties for parts and labor depending on the Sole model).
Considering that the average treadmill lifespan is 10 years, it's nice to know that your treadmill motor is covered for at least that period of time.
On the other side, many of the cheaper treadmill models offer very short warranties (i.e. 90 days) on their treadmills. If it breaks down, you're out the money to fix it or to buy a new treadmill.
#3) Treadmill Belt
The treadmill belt area is your running area. When buying a treadmill remember that the minimum width of the belt (just to protect the integrity of the belt itself) is 17", however average widths range from 18" to 20".
The minimum length of the belt is usually around 51". However if you are taller, plan on running, or have longer legs, we'd recommend at least a 56" belt.
Having a good treadmill belt can also improve cushioning, protect your joints and add length to your treadmill life.
#4) Cushioning
Cushioning is the ability of the treadmill to absorb the force of your step. Better cushioning means less impact on your joints and ligaments. Many quality treadmills have their own form of cushioning system to protect you.
For example Sole treadmills use Cushion Flex cushioning, shown in a study to reduce impact by 365% compared to running on asphalt. Other treadmills that have rated highly with users are Smooth and Nordic Track reflex decks. When buying a treadmill, don't skimp on cushioning - it's one of the most important factors in a treadmill.
#5) Treadmill Goodies/Entertainment Options
These are the little goodies like heart rate monitors, built-in workout programs, mp3 docks with built in speakers, TV's, workout fans, running track displays, etc. While this is largely subjective as to what you prefer to have in a treadmill, these are the features that make working out fun.
#6) Where To Buy
There are 2 places to look when buying a treadmill:
#1) A treadmill store or department store.
This is an actual brick-and-mortar store where you walk on the treadmill and get information from the treadmill salesperson about the products. The advantage to this is that you can try out the the treadmill and ask questions of the salesperson.
The disadvantage to buying a treadmill at an actual store is that you will generally pay more for the treadmill, pay for shipping, you may feel pressured by the salesperson, and be limited to a smaller selection of treadmill brands.
#2) Online (direct from the treadmill manufacturer)
The disadvantage here is that you cannot try out the treadmill. However, the best online stores help to make up for this by offering:
- expert & customer reviews of their treadmills
- lots of treadmill details and loads of treadmill pictures
- online support & prevalent contact information
- money back satisfaction guarantees
- website security information
They also offer substantial savings on their treadmills. You'll not only save on the price of the treadmill itself (up to $1400!), but you may also save on sales tax and free shipping (which can save you up to $150).
Other advantages to buying a treadmill online are that you don't have a salesperson pressuring you to buy, you can take your time and choose from a much larger selection of treadmill brands than you'll find at a brick-and-mortar store.
With online treadmill sales skyrocketing, many people are obviously choosing to buy direct online (and we often get coupons and discount links for our visitors, direct from the manufacturers themselves) However in the final analysis, it's your choice
Regardless of what you decide to do, please make sure you consider the main elements of a good treadmill (listed above) before you buy a treadmill. It will pay off in the long run and you'll end up with a treadmill that you love!
