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Depending on your answers to those questions, your selection will be somewhat narrowed, but some basic things to look for include:
motor (since this is primarily all a treadmill is), horsepower (at least 2.0 continuous-duty), motor electronics, motor torque, frame, handrails, speed and speed controls, belt, deck (running surface), impact resilience, incline adjustment, control panel, rollers, warranty, and finally, price.
Runners World Magazine tested treadmills in 1999 and evaluated them on following four criteria which they felt were most important. You might be wise to consider same. They were: cushioning (does deck absorb shock?), stability (is it solid and secure?), actual pace (is display reading accurate?), and noise (how loud is machine?).
In addition to price--plan to spend around $1,000 and up for a quality treadmill--the next best comparison might be servicing/warranty. If something does go awry with your machine you want it fixed fast, in your home. Does company provide a help-line? Do they have technicians in your area. More importantly, warranty should cover most parts (especially motor) and longer better.
When you choose to have a healthier lifestyle, it means finding a solution and a routine that works for you. Exercise, like most human endeavors is not a "one-size-fits-all" undertaking, but treadmills can help in your quest for fitness and longer life.
Larry Denton is a retired history teacher having taught 33 years at Hobson High in Hobson, Montana. He is currently Vice President of Elfin Enterprises, Inc., a business providing useful information and valuable resources on a variety of timely topics. For an exercise room full of information, resources and suggestions about treadmills, visit http://www.TreadmillTime.com
