Getting Started l Types l Features l Brands l Where to Shop
Treadmills are stepping up in the world. Features such as electronic programming, which varies the intensity of a workout, can help make exercise less of a chore -- and even more fun. Indeed, more Americans regularly work out on a treadmill than on any other type of exercise machine.
GETTING STARTED
Generally, the more you spend on a treadmill, the sturdier the construction, the more powerful the motor, and the longer the warranty. You can pay $3,000 or more for a nonfolding treadmill that we rated excellent, or half that for a folding model. But even a much smaller investment can buy a decent machine that provides a good workout.
Generally, the more you spend on a treadmill, the sturdier the construction, the more powerful the motor, and the longer the warranty. You can pay $3,000 or more for a nonfolding treadmill that we rated excellent, or half that for a folding model. But even a much smaller investment can buy a decent machine that provides a good workout.
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When you're paying that kind of money for a treadmill, it's reasonable to expect a machine that works properly. The disappointing news from our latest tests is that manufacturing quality is still spotty. Some models developed problems during our tests that affected their performance. One treadmill didn't run at all when we got it. Even when repairs are covered under warranty, it's a hassle.
Where to buy You'll find budget and midpriced treadmills in Sears, The Sports Authority, Wal-Mart, and other discount and sporting-goods chains. Moderately priced brands such as Horizon Fitness, Schwinn, Trimline, and Vision Fitness, as well as pricier brands such as Landice, Life Fitness, Nautilus, Precor, and True, are sold in specialty sporting-goods stores. Every model is a little different, so you should try it out in the store. (The main disadvantage of buying a treadmill online is that you can't try before you buy.) Before leaving for the store, consult this treadmill guide.
TYPES
Basically, there is only one type of treadmill: A moving belt, powered by an electric motor, on which you can walk or run. But because they come in a wide price range, we have divided the types of treadmills available according to price.
Budget-priced treadmills
These typically include a 10 mph top speed, a 10-percent maximum incline, a display for speed, distance, time, and calories, a shelf with water-bottle holders, and a deck that you can fold up when the treadmill isn't being used.
Pros: If walking is your exercise, just about any of these should be adequate.
Cons: The budget models tend to feel less stable than the more expensive models, and their decks might be too short for a runner's long stride.
Midrange-priced treadmills
These generally include the same features as the budget models, along with more advanced electronic exercise programs. Some have a chest-strap heart-rate monitor.
Pros: Sturdier construction makes these treadmills better suited for occasional running.
Cons: The deck on many models might be too short for a runner's long stride.
Expensive treadmills
These typically have the same features as midrange machines, but also a sturdier deck and frame and a powerful motor for long, fast running.
Pros: These are the best choice for serious runners. They generally come with the longest warranties.
Cons: Most lack a folding deck.
FEATURES
The effort to make exercise interesting and as pain-free as possible has led to an array of features. Decide which treadmill features you'll use, and don't pay for options you don't care about.
Folding deck
Some treadmills have a hinged deck that you can raise and lock in place vertically for storage. A nonfolding treadmill takes up as much floor space as a small couch; a folded model, about half that when folded. Nonfolding treadmills tend to feel more stable. But where space is tight, every square foot counts.
Electronic programming
This useful feature, found on most of the treadmills we tested, automatically varies the intensity of the workout, the way running up and down hills does outdoors. You can also make adjustments manually. Exercise programs can be an antidote to boredom and may encourage you to work out more often.
Heart-rate monitor
You'll generally find a chest-strap heart-rate monitor on treadmills that cost $1,500 and up. Less expensive treadmills may have a handgrip monitor. A heart-rate monitor helps you to exercise up to your potential while avoiding dangerous overexertion. A chest-strap monitor is the most convenient. It allows you to continually monitor your heart rate without having to hold the handgrip sensors.
Controls
Look for well-labeled, intuitive controls: up/down buttons, quick one-touch speed and incline buttons, and large, easy-to-read displays that show multiple functions (time, speed, heart rate, incline) at once. Poorly designed controls and displays are a constant annoyance.
Foot rails
Look for wide and flat foot rails alongside the moving belt. Ample foot rails make getting on and off the treadmill easier.
Handles or handrails
Most treadmills have them in front and on the sides. Padding is a plus. While they're useful for those who need added security, they shouldn't get in the way of your arms while you exercise.
Motor housing
It should be set forward far enough and relatively flush with the front of the belt or concave. It shouldn't get in the way of your feet when using the treadmill.
Tethered safety key
On most models, you need to insert a key on the console to start the treadmill. The key comes on a long cord, with a clip at the other end that attaches to your clothing. The cord will pull the key out and stop the treadmill if you slip and fall. It also keeps unsupervised children from starting the machine.
Console gadgets
A growing number of treadmills load the console with gadgets such as a CD player, a fan, and even an LCD TV. You might be able to buy these items separately for less. And if they need repair, having them serviced can be a problem.
BRANDS
You can compare treadmills by brand. If you don't see a model in our Ratings (available to subscribers), these profiles can help you learn about a manufacturer and what it offers (listed below in alphabetical order).
Bowflex
Bowflex is manufactured by Nautilus, which also makes fitness equipment under the following brand names: Schwinn Fitness, StairMaster, and Universal. Available from various online retailers and at Sears. Prices range from $1,000 to $3,500.
Epic
Epic is part of the Icon Fitness group. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $1,200 to $1,500.
Horizon Fitness
Horizon Fitness is based in Cottage Grove, Wis. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Available in sporting-goods stores and online, its treadmills range in price from $800 to $2,500.
Landice
Based in Randolph, N.J., Landice makes mid- to high-end treadmills and ellipticals for the home and the commercial market. Available in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $2,500 to $5,500.
LifeFitness
Life Fitness home treadmills are available at specialty fitness retailers and through its online store. Treadmills range in price from $2,000 to $7,000.
LifeSpan Fitness
LifeSpan Fitness products are manufactured by Health and Fitness, which is based in Park City, Utah. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $900 to $3,500.
New Balance
Manufactured by Fitness Quest, New Balance also offers ellipticals and exercise bikes at budget prices. Products are available in sporting-goods stores and on the New Balance Web site. Treadmill prices range from less than $1,000 to $1,800.
NordicTrack
Part of the Icon Fitness group, which is one of the largest manufacturers of fitness equipment in the world. NordicTrack offers a variety of other exercise products, including ellipticals, exercise bikes, and steppers. Treadmills range in price from $900 to $3,000.
PaceMaster
PaceMaster products are manufactured by Aerobics Inc, which is based in New Jersey. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes, available in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $1,800 to $2,900.
Precor
Precor is part of the Finland-based Amer Sports Corporation. Its treadmills can be purchased nationwide at specialty fitness stores. Prices range from $2,500 to $7,000.
Proform
Made by Icon Fitness, Proform offers exercise equipment at lower price points than most other manufacturers. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmill prices range from less than $1,000 to $2,000.
Smooth Fitness
Based in King Of Prussia, Pa., Smooth Fitness also makes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Its products are available through specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $1,000 to $5,300.
Spirit
Owned by Taiwan-based Dyaco International, Spirit has been in existence for more than 25 years. Its treadmills are sold nationwide in specialty fitness stores. Prices are in the $2,000-and-below range.
SportsArt
Based in Woodinville, Wash., SportsArt has been making fitness equipment for more than 30 years. Products also include cycles, ellipticals, rowers, and steppers. Products are sold in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $2,000 to $4,300.
True
Based in St. Louis, True's product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $2,200 to $6,000.
Vision Fitness
Vision Fitness was started in 1993 and is based in Wisconsin. Products are available at specialty fitness stores and online. Treadmills range in price from $2,100 to $6,000.
WHERE TO SHOP
Good exercise equipment can be expensive but you should also take other factors into account before buying. One important consideration is the amount of space you want to devote to the piece of equipment you're considering. A treadmill or elliptical machine can easily take up as much space as a couch. Still, more Americans regularly work out on a treadmill than on any other type of exercise machine and ellipticals are growing in popularity.
Before you shop
It's best not to buy such a large, big-ticket item on a whim. So before you even go to the store, take stock of how much you want to spend and how much space you want to use. And perhaps most important, decide how and how often you'll use the equipment.
Consider your space
Elliptical exercisers, most of which do not fold, and nonfolding treadmills are hard to move and take up as much floor space as a couch or dining room table. If your workout room does double duty, a folding treadmill can save you about six-square-feet.
Consider the cost
We've found in recent treadmill tests that you have to spend well over $2,000 to get a machine designed for serious runners, though lower-priced models are okay for walkers. We tested elliptical exercisers that cost as much as our high-scoring treadmills and found the same thing. Ellipticals that cost $2,000 and up were well-built and felt stable to our testers, more like the $5,000 machines at gyms. And they were less likely to have defects.
In the Ratings of treadmills and ellipticals, the quality score for less-expensive models reflects the severity and frequency of those problems. Most of the trouble we experienced would be covered under warranty, but it can take weeks and multiple phone calls to get a machine fixed -- enough time to discourage even passionate exercisers. By contrast, the machines we bought for $2,000 and more through specialty fitness equipment stores had very few defects.
Consider your workout intensity
For treadmills, if you usually walk rather than run, any of the tested models will suffice. Decide based on your budget and the features you want. If you run, sturdy construction is paramount. Choose from the models that scored at least very good in quality in the treadmill Ratings. The more expensive ellipticals in our Ratings tend to feel more solid, operate more smoothly, and have more features than the under-$1,000 models. You might also get superior ergonomics, a wide range of features, and a more generous warranty.
Ready to shop
Once you know what type of equipment you want, you're ready to shop. You'll find budget and mid-priced treadmills in Sears, The Sports Authority, Wal-Mart, and other discount and sporting-goods chains. Moderately priced brands such as Horizon Fitness, Schwinn, Trimline, and Vision Fitness, and more expensive brands such as Landice, Life Fitness, Nautilus, Precor, and True are sold in specialty sporting-goods stores. No matter where you shop, here are some tips to follow.
Try it out first
Every model is a little different, so you shouldn't buy a treadmill or elliptical before using it in the store. That's especially important with elliptical exercisers because the movement is less familiar than walking or running, and each machine has a slightly different pedaling profile.
Decide which features you'll use
Some equipment features, such as exercise programs, can make a workout more varied and less boring, which might get you on the machine more often. But don't pay for frills that you don't care about.
Make sure you can change your mind
Because each machine has its own feel, try it out before you buy and make sure the store will let you return it if you dislike using it. See our Ratings and recommendations for some suggestions.
Other shopping options
If you decide you'd like something other than a treadmill or elliptical, be wary of any relatively inexpensive exercise devices sold on TV or online.
Read the fine print
Most of the "amazing results!" shown in infomercials for exercise devices are footnoted as "not typical" or result from an overall "system" that includes a diet plan and, in many cases, additional aerobic exercise. (Our nutrition experts reviewed the diets and found that although they differ in the strictness of their meal plans, most are sensible.)
Calculate the total cost
Unless the price includes shipping, expect to pay an additional $20 to $50 plus any sales tax.
Don't confuse toning with weight loss
These devices might help you to tone or tighten the target area, and building muscle does increase the rate at which you burn calories, but to shed pounds you'll need a change in diet, regular aerobic activity (running, cycling, swimming), or both. Even workouts on the total-body machines aren't vigorous enough to yield an aerobic benefit.
Consider do-it-yourself options
Most of the machines mimic movements you can do on your own or with far-less- expensive equipment, such as weights and resistance bands. They come with instructions, but you can get that with an exercise video or book.
Beware of trials
A "30-day money-back guarantee" sounds good, but returning the product might not be easy. Some of the machines are heavy or bulky, and you might have to pay for return shipping, which could cost $90 or more for the larger products.
Before signing up for a trial, verify with the company the proper return address and how soon you can expect a refund if you send the device back. A scan of online complaints about home fitness equipment revealed that reported problems with returns, including lack of a valid return address or exorbitant shipping charges, were common.
Where to buy You'll find budget and midpriced treadmills in Sears, The Sports Authority, Wal-Mart, and other discount and sporting-goods chains. Moderately priced brands such as Horizon Fitness, Schwinn, Trimline, and Vision Fitness, as well as pricier brands such as Landice, Life Fitness, Nautilus, Precor, and True, are sold in specialty sporting-goods stores. Every model is a little different, so you should try it out in the store. (The main disadvantage of buying a treadmill online is that you can't try before you buy.) Before leaving for the store, consult this treadmill guide.
TYPES
Basically, there is only one type of treadmill: A moving belt, powered by an electric motor, on which you can walk or run. But because they come in a wide price range, we have divided the types of treadmills available according to price.
Budget-priced treadmills
These typically include a 10 mph top speed, a 10-percent maximum incline, a display for speed, distance, time, and calories, a shelf with water-bottle holders, and a deck that you can fold up when the treadmill isn't being used.
Pros: If walking is your exercise, just about any of these should be adequate.
Cons: The budget models tend to feel less stable than the more expensive models, and their decks might be too short for a runner's long stride.
Midrange-priced treadmills
These generally include the same features as the budget models, along with more advanced electronic exercise programs. Some have a chest-strap heart-rate monitor.
Pros: Sturdier construction makes these treadmills better suited for occasional running.
Cons: The deck on many models might be too short for a runner's long stride.
Expensive treadmills
These typically have the same features as midrange machines, but also a sturdier deck and frame and a powerful motor for long, fast running.
Pros: These are the best choice for serious runners. They generally come with the longest warranties.
Cons: Most lack a folding deck.
FEATURES
The effort to make exercise interesting and as pain-free as possible has led to an array of features. Decide which treadmill features you'll use, and don't pay for options you don't care about.
Folding deck
Some treadmills have a hinged deck that you can raise and lock in place vertically for storage. A nonfolding treadmill takes up as much floor space as a small couch; a folded model, about half that when folded. Nonfolding treadmills tend to feel more stable. But where space is tight, every square foot counts.
Electronic programming
This useful feature, found on most of the treadmills we tested, automatically varies the intensity of the workout, the way running up and down hills does outdoors. You can also make adjustments manually. Exercise programs can be an antidote to boredom and may encourage you to work out more often.
Heart-rate monitor
You'll generally find a chest-strap heart-rate monitor on treadmills that cost $1,500 and up. Less expensive treadmills may have a handgrip monitor. A heart-rate monitor helps you to exercise up to your potential while avoiding dangerous overexertion. A chest-strap monitor is the most convenient. It allows you to continually monitor your heart rate without having to hold the handgrip sensors.
Controls
Look for well-labeled, intuitive controls: up/down buttons, quick one-touch speed and incline buttons, and large, easy-to-read displays that show multiple functions (time, speed, heart rate, incline) at once. Poorly designed controls and displays are a constant annoyance.
Foot rails
Look for wide and flat foot rails alongside the moving belt. Ample foot rails make getting on and off the treadmill easier.
Handles or handrails
Most treadmills have them in front and on the sides. Padding is a plus. While they're useful for those who need added security, they shouldn't get in the way of your arms while you exercise.
Motor housing
It should be set forward far enough and relatively flush with the front of the belt or concave. It shouldn't get in the way of your feet when using the treadmill.
Tethered safety key
On most models, you need to insert a key on the console to start the treadmill. The key comes on a long cord, with a clip at the other end that attaches to your clothing. The cord will pull the key out and stop the treadmill if you slip and fall. It also keeps unsupervised children from starting the machine.
Console gadgets
A growing number of treadmills load the console with gadgets such as a CD player, a fan, and even an LCD TV. You might be able to buy these items separately for less. And if they need repair, having them serviced can be a problem.
BRANDS
You can compare treadmills by brand. If you don't see a model in our Ratings (available to subscribers), these profiles can help you learn about a manufacturer and what it offers (listed below in alphabetical order).
Bowflex
Bowflex is manufactured by Nautilus, which also makes fitness equipment under the following brand names: Schwinn Fitness, StairMaster, and Universal. Available from various online retailers and at Sears. Prices range from $1,000 to $3,500.
Epic
Epic is part of the Icon Fitness group. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $1,200 to $1,500.
Horizon Fitness
Horizon Fitness is based in Cottage Grove, Wis. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Available in sporting-goods stores and online, its treadmills range in price from $800 to $2,500.
Landice
Based in Randolph, N.J., Landice makes mid- to high-end treadmills and ellipticals for the home and the commercial market. Available in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $2,500 to $5,500.
LifeFitness
Life Fitness home treadmills are available at specialty fitness retailers and through its online store. Treadmills range in price from $2,000 to $7,000.
LifeSpan Fitness
LifeSpan Fitness products are manufactured by Health and Fitness, which is based in Park City, Utah. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $900 to $3,500.
New Balance
Manufactured by Fitness Quest, New Balance also offers ellipticals and exercise bikes at budget prices. Products are available in sporting-goods stores and on the New Balance Web site. Treadmill prices range from less than $1,000 to $1,800.
NordicTrack
Part of the Icon Fitness group, which is one of the largest manufacturers of fitness equipment in the world. NordicTrack offers a variety of other exercise products, including ellipticals, exercise bikes, and steppers. Treadmills range in price from $900 to $3,000.
PaceMaster
PaceMaster products are manufactured by Aerobics Inc, which is based in New Jersey. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes, available in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $1,800 to $2,900.
Precor
Precor is part of the Finland-based Amer Sports Corporation. Its treadmills can be purchased nationwide at specialty fitness stores. Prices range from $2,500 to $7,000.
Proform
Made by Icon Fitness, Proform offers exercise equipment at lower price points than most other manufacturers. Its product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmill prices range from less than $1,000 to $2,000.
Smooth Fitness
Based in King Of Prussia, Pa., Smooth Fitness also makes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Its products are available through specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $1,000 to $5,300.
Spirit
Owned by Taiwan-based Dyaco International, Spirit has been in existence for more than 25 years. Its treadmills are sold nationwide in specialty fitness stores. Prices are in the $2,000-and-below range.
SportsArt
Based in Woodinville, Wash., SportsArt has been making fitness equipment for more than 30 years. Products also include cycles, ellipticals, rowers, and steppers. Products are sold in specialty fitness stores. Treadmills range in price from $2,000 to $4,300.
True
Based in St. Louis, True's product line also includes ellipticals and exercise bikes. Treadmills range in price from $2,200 to $6,000.
Vision Fitness
Vision Fitness was started in 1993 and is based in Wisconsin. Products are available at specialty fitness stores and online. Treadmills range in price from $2,100 to $6,000.
WHERE TO SHOP
Good exercise equipment can be expensive but you should also take other factors into account before buying. One important consideration is the amount of space you want to devote to the piece of equipment you're considering. A treadmill or elliptical machine can easily take up as much space as a couch. Still, more Americans regularly work out on a treadmill than on any other type of exercise machine and ellipticals are growing in popularity.
Before you shop
It's best not to buy such a large, big-ticket item on a whim. So before you even go to the store, take stock of how much you want to spend and how much space you want to use. And perhaps most important, decide how and how often you'll use the equipment.
Consider your space
Elliptical exercisers, most of which do not fold, and nonfolding treadmills are hard to move and take up as much floor space as a couch or dining room table. If your workout room does double duty, a folding treadmill can save you about six-square-feet.
Consider the cost
We've found in recent treadmill tests that you have to spend well over $2,000 to get a machine designed for serious runners, though lower-priced models are okay for walkers. We tested elliptical exercisers that cost as much as our high-scoring treadmills and found the same thing. Ellipticals that cost $2,000 and up were well-built and felt stable to our testers, more like the $5,000 machines at gyms. And they were less likely to have defects.
In the Ratings of treadmills and ellipticals, the quality score for less-expensive models reflects the severity and frequency of those problems. Most of the trouble we experienced would be covered under warranty, but it can take weeks and multiple phone calls to get a machine fixed -- enough time to discourage even passionate exercisers. By contrast, the machines we bought for $2,000 and more through specialty fitness equipment stores had very few defects.
Consider your workout intensity
For treadmills, if you usually walk rather than run, any of the tested models will suffice. Decide based on your budget and the features you want. If you run, sturdy construction is paramount. Choose from the models that scored at least very good in quality in the treadmill Ratings. The more expensive ellipticals in our Ratings tend to feel more solid, operate more smoothly, and have more features than the under-$1,000 models. You might also get superior ergonomics, a wide range of features, and a more generous warranty.
Ready to shop
Once you know what type of equipment you want, you're ready to shop. You'll find budget and mid-priced treadmills in Sears, The Sports Authority, Wal-Mart, and other discount and sporting-goods chains. Moderately priced brands such as Horizon Fitness, Schwinn, Trimline, and Vision Fitness, and more expensive brands such as Landice, Life Fitness, Nautilus, Precor, and True are sold in specialty sporting-goods stores. No matter where you shop, here are some tips to follow.
Try it out first
Every model is a little different, so you shouldn't buy a treadmill or elliptical before using it in the store. That's especially important with elliptical exercisers because the movement is less familiar than walking or running, and each machine has a slightly different pedaling profile.
Decide which features you'll use
Some equipment features, such as exercise programs, can make a workout more varied and less boring, which might get you on the machine more often. But don't pay for frills that you don't care about.
Make sure you can change your mind
Because each machine has its own feel, try it out before you buy and make sure the store will let you return it if you dislike using it. See our Ratings and recommendations for some suggestions.
Other shopping options
If you decide you'd like something other than a treadmill or elliptical, be wary of any relatively inexpensive exercise devices sold on TV or online.
Read the fine print
Most of the "amazing results!" shown in infomercials for exercise devices are footnoted as "not typical" or result from an overall "system" that includes a diet plan and, in many cases, additional aerobic exercise. (Our nutrition experts reviewed the diets and found that although they differ in the strictness of their meal plans, most are sensible.)
Calculate the total cost
Unless the price includes shipping, expect to pay an additional $20 to $50 plus any sales tax.
Don't confuse toning with weight loss
These devices might help you to tone or tighten the target area, and building muscle does increase the rate at which you burn calories, but to shed pounds you'll need a change in diet, regular aerobic activity (running, cycling, swimming), or both. Even workouts on the total-body machines aren't vigorous enough to yield an aerobic benefit.
Consider do-it-yourself options
Most of the machines mimic movements you can do on your own or with far-less- expensive equipment, such as weights and resistance bands. They come with instructions, but you can get that with an exercise video or book.
Beware of trials
A "30-day money-back guarantee" sounds good, but returning the product might not be easy. Some of the machines are heavy or bulky, and you might have to pay for return shipping, which could cost $90 or more for the larger products.
Before signing up for a trial, verify with the company the proper return address and how soon you can expect a refund if you send the device back. A scan of online complaints about home fitness equipment revealed that reported problems with returns, including lack of a valid return address or exorbitant shipping charges, were common.
Copyright © 2006-2009 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.
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