Treadmills have experienced substantial growth over
years. They are designed to enhance most popular form of exercising - running and walking. Treadmills are built on basic premise that more effort you put in, more you will get out. As other fitness equipment and gimmicks gather dust, treadmills continue to gain popularity and get results. The two most popular forms of exercising are running and walking. Whether you are a casual walker or a serious runner, a treadmill can accommodate your exercise needs. Set speed and incline to suite your desired cardiovascular goals. You can do a power walk up an incline or a heart pumping run at high speed.
The treadmill is unsurpassed for a cardiovascular workout. It works large muscles in your body. According to a recent study calories burned on treadmill for 60 minutes averaged 865 - 705. Contrast that with; The stair machine (746-637), rowing machine (739-606), stationary cycle with levers (709-509), cross-country ski machine (678-595) and stationary cycle (604-498). As you can see from figures treadmill is unmatched for burning calories.
Treadmills can guarantee a consistent workout in all seasons. In warm or wet regions, you don't need to be concerned about heat exhaustion in hot and humid weather.
For walkers and runners alike, injuries are common from constant pounding of joints on asphalt and concrete. Particularly higher end treadmills offer surfaces that absorb impact and reduce pressure. Injuries are less common and stress is reduced on those critical joints. Achilles tendons, knee joints, back muscles, ankles, thighs take less of a beating, which guarantee that you'll continue to walk or run into your old age.
As treadmills become more sophisticated so does versatility of workout. Speed and incline have always been a feature on motorized treadmills, but now your workout is enhanced by a variety of preprogrammed computerized exercises. Simulate running up and down hills, focus on cardio exercise, concentrate on burning calories, or work on speed training. Often treadmills have preset programs with various levels of intensity. In addition you can program your own workout, combining speed with incline.
A good treadmill is a balance of power, stability and fun. Your ability to find right treadmill will depend upon why you want one and how much you can pay. Buy best machine you can afford paying attention to following features:
Frame: High alloy steel is usually more durable than aluminum, however they are heavier and must be coated to protect treadmill from rust. Get on treadmill, if it feels wobbly and flimsy, then it is. Selected a welded frame over a bolted one and avoid all plastic frames.
Hand Rails: The location of hand rails is a matter of preference. Whether you desire a handlebar in front or two side rails, be sure they are sturdy and don't get in way of your arm swings.
