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Continuous duty means that
treadmill will run at its listed h.p. rating with a significant workload over extended periods of time--an important consideration.Be wary of manufacturers who list "peak-performance" h.p. ratings. It sounds impressive, but all peak performance indicates is a motor's maximum power, not its sustained output.
What's best belt size?
To handle long stride and natural side-to-side movement of runners, treadmill belts are expanding in width and length. Twenty-inch-wide belts are becoming common, and no belt should be narrower than 17 or 18 inches. The length of running area should be at least 50 inches, with 55 to 60 inches preferable for taller runners.
How important is construction of deck?
Often overlooked by consumers (perhaps because it's hidden beneath belt) is treadmill's deck, or bed. Better-quality decks are usually made of thin layers of laminated wood, coated with lubricants to minimize friction between belt and deck, which in turn reduces strain on motor. The smoother deck coating, less friction between belt and deck.
Deck construction, more than belt, influences how smooth or hard your treadmill feels to run on and how well it absorbs shock. You want a surface that gives a bit but doesn't bounce.
Better decks are reversible, meaning they can be turned over--thereby (in theory, at least) doubling life of deck. Some decks require owner maintenance without which they may succumb in a year. Proper care, however, can extend a deck's life for lifetime of treadmill.
AC or DC?
Direct-current-driven (DC) motors power most home treadmills. DC motors start slowly, provide a more consistent response to speed, incline and weight demands, and tend to run quieter than alternating-current (AC) motors. With DC, you're dealing with fewer internal parts, which may cut down on repairs.
AC motors, which tend to be found in club treadmills, start belt at a faster speed. But you should be safe plugging either an AC or a DC motor into your wall outlet at home.
Pricing
A good home treadmill can cost up to $5,000 and will likely be most expensive piece of exercise equipment you'll ever buy. Why so much money to run in place? To answer this, we contacted Cybex International, manufacturer of high-end Trotter line.
Companies that make best treadmills install highest grade of parts and components available, including expensive motors, safety and comfort features and long-lasting decks. Your treadmill's components have to be able to withstand a terrific beating--more than 1,000 footstrikes per mile of running. With price of a high-end treadmill, you should get a machine that is absolutely durable, with a longer, more complete warranty that reflects its superior quality.
If you're in market to seriously educate yourself about treadmills, visit http://www.treadmilladviser.com where you can obtain more detailed information.
Paul Reeve is a Personal Trainer responsible for training individuals one-on-one and assisting them in achieving their health and fitness goals and providing them with guidance, support and motivation. Presenter and lecturer for Fitness Professionals, Sports Organizations, Sport Coaches, Corporate and Community Organizations. Webmaster for www.treadmilladviser.com - providing informed advice on exercise treadmills.
