Treadmills

[Steamboat Marti]

I'd like to purchase a treadmill - I'd like to use it every day, but not for running (unless I get really good!!!) Could you please tell me what to look for; what to avoid; any brands that are good.

I know nothing about these machines, so I need all the research I can get. I'm trying to get in shape for our December WDW trip.

Thanks!

 

[Maryr1]

Unless you are a really really really self disciplined person-save the money and go for a walk outside!!!!! First thing every day-no excuses!!! Make a date and go with a friend,take the dog,anything! Remember, the hardest part is taking the first 10 steps. Believe me when I tell you that treadmills make very expensive clothes hangers. Is there a Y near you? Many now offer child care during your work out for free. You can meet so many other people at the Y (or local gym)-it could become a new favorite place. If you must have an at home treadmill,buy a reconditioned one (much cheaper) with a maintenance agreement. I got one for my mom at Sears. I speak from experience-I almost bought a treadmill and then I decided to walk the dog.I found I liked walking outside-fresh air, sunshine, all of a sudden I liked walking in the rain-no more colds in the winter-haven't had the flu or any of the stomach bugs in years-I think it is getting out&breathing deeply that helps. I am much more fit and have now run 5 marathons-and it all started with a walk-go figure!

 

[JudicialTyranny]

A good site is The Treadmill Doctor.

In particular, check out his Best Buy Awards in various price ranges.

Also check out his reviews of treadmills.

I bought a Trimline based on this site's recommendations.

Most mass merchandise treadmills (from department stores and big sporting goods stores) are all actually made by the same company - Icon. Icon makes Proform, Reebok, NordicTrack, Epic, Image, Gold's Gym, Healthrider, and on and on.

The Doctor tends to lean away from the Icon-made models and towards more difficult to find (but supposedly higher quality) brands. I got my Trimline from an independent sporting goods store - you won't find them at a Sports Authority for example.

 

[grlpwrd]

The Treadmill Doctor site is very reputable and the info is accurate.

I own an older used industrial Cybex I bought off of ebay and it works wonderfully. You might want to try ebay or Craigslist.

I also own an elliptical machine and I use it more than my treadmill, but I like having a choice. I don't have time to do my cardio at the gym. It depends on your motivation, too. How bad do you want to be in shape? I placed them both in our living room and they are never clothes racks because my whole family uses them.

Treadmills are also good for variety. You can walk or jog and vary the incline.

GL!

 

[Deb in IA]

We have a True 540, and in the 14 months that we have had it, between DH and I, we have logged about 600 miles on it.
Very reliable, easy to use, minimal maintence.

 

[kathybeany]

We just bought a Trimline 2200 for $30 a month ago. We got it used from someone on Craigslist. Dh and I weren't sure if a treadmill would be something we'd like, so we didn't want to spend hundreds of dollars. The thing is big, but is awesome. I'd recommend checking out craigslist to see if you can someone selling one in your area. Just my two cents

 

[VSL]

Why not save some money and go walking outside?

Unless you live in an area with exceptionally bad weather, walking outside has a lot more benefits than walking on a treadmill (wind resistance, hills, etc.). Also, unless you're unusual, you probably don't spend more than about an hour total outside per day (most people only go outside when walking from the car to the house, etc.) - getting outside can be good for you psychologically.

Either way, if you choose to get a treadmill, don't scimp on the cost or you could end up paying a lot more in repairs, etc.